Is Greece Cheap or Expensive?
02/03/2023 Iskustva 0

Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year with its stunning scenery, rich history, and delicious cuisine. However, many people are hesitant to visit Greece because of concerns about the cost of travel. 

In this article, we will explore the question of whether Greece is expensive to visit and provide some affordable destinations and budget tips for those who want to experience the beauty of Greece without breaking the bank.

Is Greece Expensive to Visit?

The answer to this question is, it depends. Like any popular tourist destination, Greece can be expensive in some areas, particularly during the peak tourist season. However, there are many affordable options available, particularly for those who are willing to explore beyond the most popular destinations.

Affordable destinations in Greece

If you're looking for an affordable Greece destination, consider visiting some of the lesser-known islands and towns. For example, the island of Ikaria, located in the Aegean Sea, is a great option for budget travelers. The island is known for its hot springs and beautiful beaches, as well as its affordable accommodations and food options.

Another great option for budget travelers is the town of Kalamata, located in the Peloponnese region of Greece. This town offers beautiful beaches, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine at reasonable prices.

Where is Greece expensive?

As mentioned, Greece can be expensive in some areas, particularly during peak tourist season. Popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos are known for their high prices, particularly for accommodations and dining.

Athens, the capital city of Greece, can also be expensive, particularly for those who want to stay in the city center. However, there are many affordable options available, particularly if you're willing to stay outside the city center and use public transportation to get around.

Greece trip costs

The cost of a trip to Greece will depend on a number of factors, including the time of year you visit, the destinations you choose, and your travel style. Generally speaking, peak tourist season (June-August) is the most expensive time to visit, while shoulder season (April-May and September-October) can be more affordable.

When it comes to accommodations, you can expect to pay anywhere from €30-€100+ per night for a hotel room, depending on the location and quality of the hotel. Airbnb and other vacation rental options may be more affordable, particularly if you're traveling with a group.

How much does a meal cost in Greece?

The cost of dining out in Greece will depend on where you go and what you order. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from €10-€20 per person for a meal at a casual restaurant, while a more upscale restaurant may cost €30 or more per person. Street food and local markets can be a more affordable option, particularly for budget travelers.

How much does it cost to get to Greece?

The cost of getting to Greece will depend on where you're traveling from and how you choose to travel. Flights from North America can be expensive, particularly during peak tourist season. However, there are often deals available, particularly if you're willing to be flexible with your travel dates and book well in advance.

If you're already in Europe, there are many affordable options for getting to Greece, including budget airlines and ferries. For example, a one-way ferry ticket from Athens to Santorini can cost as little as €40, while a flight from Athens to Crete can cost around €50.

How much do activities cost in Greece?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Greece, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking in the mountains to island-hopping. The cost of activities can vary widely depending on what you choose to do. Some activities, such as hiking or visiting archaeological sites, can be very inexpensive or even free. Others, such as boat tours or water sports, can be more expensive.

For example, a boat tour of the caldera in Santorini can cost anywhere from 50-150 euros per person depending on the type and length of the tour. A scuba diving excursion can cost around 80-100 euros per person for a single dive, and more for multiple dives or certification courses. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and other water sports are also available at many beach destinations, with prices varying depending on the location and type of activity.

It's also worth noting that many islands have their own unique activities and experiences to offer, such as wine tastings in Santorini, sea turtle conservation in Zakynthos, or donkey rides in Hydra. Prices for these activities can vary depending on the location and popularity of the experience.

What is a good budget for Greece?

Overall, Greece can be a relatively affordable destination, especially if you are willing to travel during the off-season, avoid the most touristy destinations, and seek out budget-friendly accommodations and activities. However, costs can add up quickly if you are not careful, especially in high season when prices are at their peak.

A good budget for Greece will depend on your travel style, preferences, and itinerary. As a rough estimate, a budget traveler could expect to spend around 30-50 euros per day on accommodation, 20-30 euros per day on food, and additional funds for transportation and activities.

Mid-range travelers could expect to spend around 50-100 euros per day on accommodation, 30-50 euros per day on food, and additional funds for transportation and activities.

Luxury travelers, on the other hand, could easily spend upwards of 200 euros per day on accommodation, 50-100 euros per day on food, and significant amounts on activities and transportation.

Ultimately, the key to budgeting for Greece is to plan ahead, do your research, and be willing to make trade-offs between luxury and affordability. By doing so, you can enjoy all that Greece has to offer without breaking the bank.

How much does it cost to get around Greece?

Getting around Greece can vary in cost depending on your mode of transportation and your destination. Here are some of the most common ways to get around Greece and their approximate costs:

Public Transportation: Greece has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. Buses are the most common mode of transportation for both short and long distances, with tickets costing around €1.20-€2.50 for local buses and €10-€30 for intercity buses.

Trains are also available for longer distances, with prices ranging from €10-€40.

Finally, ferries are a popular way to travel between the Greek islands, with prices varying depending on the distance and the season. For example, a one-way ticket from Athens to Santorini can cost around €40-€70, while a trip from Athens to Mykonos can cost around €20-€50.

Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Greece and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances. Taxis in Athens have a starting fee of €1.19 and charge around €0.74-€0.90 per kilometer, while taxis in other parts of Greece have a starting fee of €1.50 and charge around €0.74-€1.10 per kilometer. Keep in mind that taxis may charge extra fees for luggage or for traveling during night hours.

Car Rentals: Renting a car in Greece can be a good option if you want to explore the country at your own pace. Prices for car rentals vary depending on the type of car, the season, and the rental period, but can range from €15-€50 per day. You will also need to factor in the cost of fuel and tolls, as well as parking fees in major cities.

Scooter and Motorcycle Rentals: Scooters and motorcycles are also popular options for getting around Greece, especially on the islands. Prices for rentals can range from €10-€30 per day, but keep in mind that you will need to have a valid driver's license and wear a helmet at all times.

In general, public transportation is the most affordable option for getting around Greece, followed by taxis and car rentals. However, if you want to explore the islands or more remote parts of the country, ferries or renting a scooter or motorcycle may be your best bet. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, with peak summer months typically being more expensive.

How much does it cost to vacation in Greece for a week?

The cost of a one-week vacation in Greece can vary greatly depending on your travel style, the time of year you visit, and the specific destinations you choose. Here are some general guidelines on what you can expect to spend:

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation varies widely depending on the type of lodging you choose. In general, budget hotels and guesthouses can cost anywhere from €25-€50 per night, while mid-range hotels and apartments can cost anywhere from €50-€100 per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of €200 per night.

Food and Drink: Greek food is generally very affordable, and you can easily eat well without breaking the bank. A typical meal in a taverna or casual restaurant can cost anywhere from €10-€20 per person, while a more upscale meal at a fine-dining restaurant can cost upwards of €50 per person. If you prefer to cook your own meals, you can expect to spend around €50-€70 per week on groceries.

Transportation: The cost of transportation depends largely on the distance you plan to travel and the mode of transportation you choose. Domestic flights within Greece can be very affordable if you book in advance, with prices starting around €30-€50 one way. Buses are a great budget option, with tickets costing around €10-€15 for short trips and up to €50 for longer journeys. Taxis and rental cars can be more expensive, with prices starting at around €20-€30 per day for a rental car.

Activities: The cost of activities varies widely depending on what you plan to do. Many of Greece's top attractions, such as ancient ruins and museums, have very affordable entrance fees of around €5-€10 per person. Outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking can also be very affordable, with prices starting at around €20 per person. However, if you plan to take part in more upscale activities like wine tastings or private boat tours, you can expect to pay upwards of €100 per person.

Overall, a one-week vacation in Greece can cost anywhere from €500-€3000 per person, depending on your travel style and the destinations and activities you choose. With careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to have a great time in Greece without breaking the bank.