Ultimate Greece Travel Guide

Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, particularly in urban areas, tourist destinations, and larger establishments. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club, though acceptance may vary. Smaller businesses, especially in rural areas, may prefer cash payments.

Debit Cards: Debit cards, known as “Χρεωστική Κάρτα” (Chreostiki Karta) in Greek, are commonly used for purchases and ATM withdrawals in Greece. Most Greek banks issue debit cards to their customers, which are equipped with chip-and-PIN technology for security. Informing your bank of your travel plans is advisable to prevent any issues with card usage abroad and to check for potential foreign transaction fees.

ATMs: ATMs, known as “Αυτόματοι Ταμειακοί Μηχανισμοί” (Autómati Tameiakói Michanismói) or simply “ΑΤΜ” in Greek, are widely available throughout Greece. They can be found in cities, towns, tourist areas, and even on some islands. Greek banks often charge their own customers minimal fees for ATM withdrawals, but foreign banks may impose additional fees for international transactions. Using ATMs affiliated with major banks or located within bank branches is recommended for security.

Currency Exchange: The official currency of Greece is the Euro (EUR). It’s advisable to exchange your currency to Euros upon arrival. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices (Ανταλλακτήρια), some hotels, and at airports. US dollars and British pounds are often accepted for exchange, especially in tourist areas.

Banks: Greece has a mix of large commercial banks and smaller regional banks. Some of the major banks in Greece include National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, and Eurobank. These banks offer various financial services, including current accounts, savings accounts, loans, and investment products. Many banks also provide online banking services and have extensive branch networks.

Traveler’s Checks: Traveler’s checks are becoming less common globally, including in Greece. While some banks may still cash traveler’s checks, they are not as widely accepted as they once were. It’s recommended to carry cash or use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or ATMs for transactions.

Tips for Banking in Greece:

• Notify your bank before traveling to Greece to inform them of your travel plans.
• Keep your PIN and card information secure, especially when using ATMs in crowded tourist areas.
• Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
• Carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash for security reasons.

Understanding the banking system in Greece can help ensure a smooth and convenient financial experience during your travels in the country.