Introduction
Greece is a country located in Southern Europe at the juncture of Europe, Asia, and Africa, with a long coastline, rugged mountains, forests, and lakes😍. It is known for its Classical Greek heritage, the Byzantine Empire, and Ottoman Turkish rule😳. It is home to ancient Greek civilization, which was a period of political, philosophical, artistic, and scientific achievements that formed a legacy with unparalleled influence on Western civilization👀. Greek architecture is also renowned, with its Greek-speaking peoples inhabiting the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese, the islands of the Aegean Sea, and Greek colonies in Ionia and Magna Graecia.
Santorini - Oia / Source: Trip.com
Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine🤗. However, planning a trip to Greece can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out the cost. In this article, we will guide you through the 2026 trip to Greece cost, so you can plan your dream vacation without breaking the bank💲.
Total Greece Trip Budget💲
A rough estimate of the total cost for a 7-day trip to Greece based on the average costs listed:
| Category | Average Cost |
| Flights | $600 - $1,200 per person |
| Accommodations | $20 - $200+ per night |
| Food | $5 - $30+ per meal |
| Sightseeing & Activities | Free - $50+ per person per day |
| Transportation | $1.20 - $2.50 per public transport ride |
| Travel Insurance | $50 - $200+ per person |
| WiFi | Free - $10+ per day |
| Total | $1,435 - $3,720+ per person |
Flights✈️
Flights to Greece / Source: Philip Myrtorp @ unsplash
How to Save on Flights?
- Book in advance
- Be flexible with your travel dates
- Sign up for airline newsletters to stay updated on deals and promotions
- Use a comparison website to find the best deals
Accommodations 🏨
Exclusive Suites / Source: Trip.com
Best Hotels in Santorini
5 star
Swimming pool
Family friendly
1. Budget Accommodations
- Hostels
- Guesthouses
- Airbnb
- Camping
Iconic Athens Hostel / Source: Trip.com
2. Mid-Range Accommodations
- 3-star hotels
- Vacation rentals
- Boutique hotels
Join Us Low Cost Rooms / Source: Trip.com
3. Luxury Accommodations
- 5-star hotels
- Private villas
Secret View Hotel / Source: Trip.com
Food🍲
Here is a breakdown of average food costs in Greece in a table format:
| Type of Meal | Average Cost |
| Casual restaurant meal | 10-20 euros per person |
| Fast food or street food | 3-8 euros per item |
| Local market groceries | Varies based on items purchased |
| Imported groceries | Higher than local groceries |
| Local beer or wine | 3-5 euros per drink |
| Imported beer or wine | Higher than local beer or wine |
Where to Eat?
Mykonos restaurant / Source: Despina Galani @ unsplash
One of the best ways to experience the local cuisine is to visit a taverna, which is a traditional Greek restaurant that serves hearty meals at reasonable prices👍. Tavernas often have a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and you can expect to find a variety of dishes on the menu👀, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options like stuffed grape leaves and spanakopita (spinach pie).
Another option is to visit a local market, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and other ingredients to make your own meals😍. Many markets also have small cafes or food stalls where you can try traditional snacks like souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) and gyros (meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie).
How to Save on Food🍲?
- Shop at local markets: Local markets offer fresh produce, cheese, and other ingredients that you can use to make your own meals. This is a great way to save money on restaurant bills, especially if you're staying in a rental with a kitchen.
- Avoid touristy areas: Restaurants in touristy areas often have inflated prices to cater to international visitors. Instead, seek out local neighborhoods and areas where locals eat to find more authentic and affordable options.
- Opt for vegetarian or seafood dishes: Vegetarian and seafood dishes are often cheaper than meat dishes. Greece is known for its fresh seafood, and you can often find delicious and affordable options like grilled octopus and squid, fried calamari, and sardines.
- Share dishes: Portions in Greece are often generous, so consider sharing dishes with your travel companions. This not only saves money, but it also allows you to try more dishes.
- Stick to local drinks: Imported drinks can be expensive, so opt for local beer or wine instead. These are often cheaper and just as delicious.
Sightseeing and Activities📷
Mykonos / Source: Trip.com
1. Free Activities
| Activity | Cost |
| Visiting beaches | Free |
| Hiking and nature walks | Free |
| Exploring local markets and neighborhoods | Free |
| Visiting churches and other religious sites | Free |
| Enjoying street art and architecture | Free |
2. Paid Activities
| Activity | Cost |
| Visiting historical sites and museums | 10-25 euros per person |
| Beach rentals (chairs, umbrellas) | 5-10 euros per person |
| Outdoor activities (kayaking, snorkeling, etc.) | 15-50 euros per person |
| Island hopping (ferry rides) | 20-40 euros per person |
| Guided tours and excursions | 20-100 euros per person |
How to Save Money on Activities?
- Choose free activities
- Book in advance
- Rent equipment instead of joining tours
- Look for discounts
- Plan your own island hopping itinerary
Transportation🚘
Acropolis of Athens / Source: Trip.com
1. Public Transportation:
- Bus or metro ticket: 1.20-1.80 euros
- 24-hour bus/metro pass: 4-6 euros
- Taxi ride (within city limits): 3-10 euros
2. Car Rentals:
- Economy car: 20-40 euros per day
- Mid-size car: 30-60 euros per day
- SUV or luxury car: 50-150 euros per day
3. Ferry Rides:
- Short ferry ride (1-2 hours): 5-20 euros per person
- Longer ferry ride (3-5 hours): 15-40 euros per person
👉 Overall, transportation costs in Greece can be affordable, especially if you take advantage of public transportation options. However, car rentals and ferry rides can add up quickly, so it's important to budget accordingly. By planning ahead and choosing the right transportation options for your needs, you can make the most of your trip without overspending on transportation costs.
Insurance💡
Travel insurance / Source: Towfiqu barbhuiya @ unsplash
Travel insurance is an important consideration when traveling to Greece, as it can help protect you financially in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage.
The cost of travel insurance can vary depending on factors such as your age, the length of your trip, and the level of coverage you choose. On average, travel insurance for a trip to Greece can range from $50 to $200 per person. While it may seem like an additional expense, travel insurance can provide peace of mind and potentially save you thousands of dollars in the event of an unexpected situation. Be sure to shop around and compare travel insurance options to find the coverage that best fits your needs and budget.
Wi-Fi📞
- Accommodation Wi-Fi: Many hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs offer Wi-Fi to their guests for free.
- Public Wi-Fi: Some cafes, restaurants, and public areas offer free Wi-Fi, but the speed and reliability can vary.
- eSIM: eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM card.
- SIM Cards: Purchasing a Greek SIM card can be a good option for travelers who need reliable and fast internet access. Prices for SIM cards can range from 10 to 20 euros, and data plans can range from 5 to 20 euros per week or month, depending on the amount of data you need.
Travel Tips✅
Santorini's Volcano / Source: Trip.com
How to save money during the Trip?
- Travel during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) when prices for accommodations and flights are typically lower.
- Choose budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or vacation rentals.
- Eat like a local and opt for street food or local tavernas rather than expensive restaurants.
- Use public transportation instead of renting a car or taking taxis.
- Take advantage of free activities and sights such as visiting museums on free admission days or hiking through national parks.
- Purchase a multi-day attraction pass to save money on entrance fees to popular tourist sites.
- Bring reusable water bottles and fill them up at public fountains instead of purchasing bottled water.
- Shop at local markets for souvenirs and food to save money compared to tourist shops.
- Avoid peak tourist areas and opt for off-the-beaten-path destinations for a more authentic experience.
Useful Travel Reminder:
Parthenon / Source: Trip.com
- Currency: Greece uses the euro as its currency, so be sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases. Many places also accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash as backup.
- Language: Greek is the official language of Greece, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Greek can also be helpful and appreciated by locals.
- Transportation: Greece has a good transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. If you plan to rent a car, be aware that driving in Greece can be challenging due to narrow roads and aggressive drivers.
- Safety: Greece is generally a safe country, but it's still important to take precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoiding isolated areas at night.
- Cultural Considerations: Greece has a rich and ancient culture, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and refraining from loud or disruptive behavior in public areas.
Conclusion
Perissa Beach / Source: Trip.com
A trip to Greece can be a dream come true for many travelers, but the trip to Greece can sometimes be a barrier😭. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can have a wonderful vacation in Greece without spending a fortune.
Start by booking your flights in advance, being flexible with your travel dates, and taking advantage of deals and promotions👍. When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options available to suit every budget, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious private villas. And don't forget to try local cuisine, which can be found at reasonable prices at tavernas and local markets.
There are also many free and low-cost activities to enjoy in Greece😍, from visiting ancient ruins to hiking and relaxing on the beach. By choosing these options and booking activities in advance, you can save money and still have a memorable experience👍.
In summary, the cost of a trip to Greece can vary depending on your travel style and preferences, but with careful planning, it's possible to have an amazing vacation without overspending❗️❗️. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or savoring local cuisine, Greece has something to offer for every traveler. So why not start planning your dream trip today✈️?
FAQs
-
How much does it cost to travel to Greece?
The trip to Greece cost can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. On average, you can expect to spend around €70-€100 per day on accommodations, food, and activities.
-
What is the cheapest time to visit Greece?
The cheapest time to visit Greece is during the low season (November-March).Flights and accommodations are typically less expensive during this time.
-
Is it expensive to eat out in Greece?
The cost of eating out in Greece can vary depending on where you eat and what you order. Eating like a local and avoiding tourist traps can help you save money on food.
-
Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?
Yes, most major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas and larger cities. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of any issues with card transactions.
-
Do I need to tip in Greece?
Tipping in Greece is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a small amount (usually 5-10%) for good service in restaurants and for other services such as taxi rides or haircuts./p>