Key Takeaways
- The high-season summer months from June to August are more expensive due to increased demand. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn can offer more favorable prices and pleasant weather.
- It's advisable to compare prices from different airlines and consider booking in advance to secure better deals.
- Major cities and popular tourist destinations like Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos generally have higher accommodation costs compared to smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path locations.
- Ferry tickets tend to be more afffordable, especially for shorter distances, while flights offer faster travel but can be more expensive.
How much does a trip to Greece cost? This guide details the actual costs of traveling to the various Greek islands and cities and how to make the most out of your travel budget.
Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. In 2021, the country recorded 15.2 million tourists — a figure that is likely to rise each year. These tourists flock to the country to experience its beautiful islands and cities and the gorgeous weather.
Greece can be an affordable destination, depending on how you spend your money. Whether you're a family, couple, backpacker, or solo traveler, below are all the costs you can expect when visiting Greece.
Tip: For more information, check out this Greece travel guide.
Is Greece an Expensive Place to Visit?
Many people assume that a trip to Greece costs a fortune. This may be due to the abundance of oceanfront hotels and resorts that flood our Instagram feeds. However, while parts of Greece are more expensive, the country is a relatively affordable place to visit, especially compared to other E.U. countries.
Some of the more expensive islands in Greece include Mykonos, Santorini, and Zykenthos. Cities like Athens are also on the pricier side, especially for those traveling on a budget. Visiting these towns and islands may cost more, but there are plenty of ways to save money during your Greece vacation.
One way is to spend time on some of the cheaper islands in Greece. This includes the likes of Crete, Kos, Rhodes, Kythnos, and several others. These destinations are generally affordable when it comes to accommodation costs. There are also cheaper places like hostels on the more popular islands.
How to Cut Down on Greece Costs
Getting around Greece is also relatively cheap. Many affordable transportation options will get you from point A to point B. It's also easy to save on meals. Greek food is relatively inexpensive, particularly at tavernas and other local establishments.
Another Greece vacation cost you will incur pertains to activities and attractions. Some tours are subject to overpricing, so keep an eye out for the best deals. There are also several cheap or free activities that can fit any travel budget.
So if you're wondering, 'is Greece expensive?', the answer is no — provided you make the right decisions. If you stay in a budget hotel, use local transportation and slower ferries, and eat at local restaurants, you will save money.
For a further look at how much it will cost you to visit Greece, the article will discuss the actual costs of flights, accommodation, transport, food, and tours in the sections to follow.
How Much Do Flights to Greece Cost?
The first and often one of the most significant travel costs is airfare. This can eat up quite a bit of your budget when traveling to Greece, as there aren't many direct flights available. Often, your journey will include a connecting flight.
So how much should you budget for airfare? Flight prices will depend on the airline you travel with, whether you fly economy or business class, the country you're traveling from, and the part of Greece you're traveling to. To give a general overview, we will look at the cost of top airlines for some of Greece's leading travel markets.
The majority of tourists traveling to Greece come from E.U. countries, particularly Germany and France. Other countries sending a high number of tourists to Greece include the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia.
Cost of Flights From EU Countries to Greece
It is possible to get a relatively cheap flight to Greece from various countries in the E.U. Good international airlines to fly with include British Airways, Air Berlin, Air France, Lufthansa, Aeroflot, and American Airlines.
If you're traveling from Western Europe — namely France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany — you'll be able to get direct flights to most parts of Greece, including the Greek islands. However, most people visiting the country will need to travel via Athens.
Here are the prices for roundtrip economy flights to Greece from several E.U. countries to get an idea of what you can expect to pay. The prices below are for Lufthansa, as this is one of the most popular airlines in the E.U.:
- Germany (Berlin to Athens): $173 — $210 (€160 — €193)
- France (Paris to Athens): $173 — $270 (€160 — €248)
- Italy (Rome to Athens): $150 — $190 ( €137— €175)
- Spain (Barcelona to Athens): $160 — $250 (€147 — €230)
- Turkey (Istanbul to Athens): $160 — $310 (€147 — €285)
Cost of Flights From the United States to Greece
Top airlines traveling from the United States to Greece include American Airlines (A.A.), Emirates, Delta, and United Airlines. Each of these provides flights from different parts of the U.S. However, A.A. provides the most, with as many as 14 flights traveling between the U.S. and Athens each week.
When traveling to Greece from the U.S., your airfare will vary depending on which state or airport you're traveling from. Below is a look at the average costs from different parts of the U.S.:
- New York to Athens: $500 — $1200 (€460 — €1100)
- San Diego to Athens: $880 — $1500 (€810 — €1380)
- Los Angeles to Athens: $600 — $1100 (€550 — €1010)
- Washington D.C. to Athens: $575 — $1200 (€530 — €1100)
- Las Vegas to Athens: $1100 — $1400 (€1010 — €1290)
- Austin to Athens: $1100 — $1400 (€1010 — €1290)
- Denver to Athens: $1300 — $1600 (€1200 — €1470)
Cost of Flights From the United Kingdom to Greece
When traveling from the United Kingdom to Greece, your options for airlines are endless. Top picks include Ryanair, British Airways, and Aegean Airlines. These all offer frequent flights directly to Athens from London and Manchester.
Like most countries in Europe, airfare from the United Kingdom to Greece is not too costly. Here are the average prices for Greece flights with British Airways:
- London to Athens: £112 — £255 (€135 — €305)
- Manchester to Athens: £215 — £420 (€260 — €505)
How Much Does Accommodation in Greece Cost?
The next cost to consider when planning your trip to Greece is where you choose to stay. This will vary depending on the type of accommodation, the number of nights you're staying, and the part of Greece you'll be visiting.
To help you get a better idea of how much you will need to spend on a place to stay, let's look at the price of different accommodations in some of Greece's most popular cities.
Note: The prices shown are for two adults during peak season. Prices shown are expected to be lower during the off-season.
Athens
The only accommodation found in Athens was simple chain hotels and hostels in the past. Today, however, you will find a colorful selection of hotels and guesthouses in the Greek capital.
You'll find several five-star hotels and resorts in central Athens, including the Wyndham Grand Hotel, if you're looking for luxury accommodation. While more expensive, the views of the Acropolis or Lycabettus Hill from the rooms make it worthwhile. There are many more luxury hotels in Athens. Most of these range between $150 (€125) and $450 (€375) per night.
For mid-range accommodation, consider the Wyndham Athens Residence. This is a stunning hotel in the heart of Athens. At this hotel, a night for two costs around $135 (€112), though you may find similar properties for as little as $70 (€58).
If you're a backpacker or budget traveler, you'll find plenty of affordable accommodations in Athens. Hostels are a popular option as they are often near some of the city's most vibrant bars and restaurants. Average prices range between $20 (€17) and $43 (€35) per night.
Tip: For more luxury hotels and resorts, check out these Greek accommodations.
Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most popular destinations in Greece and a favorite amongst tourists due to its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and photogenic town. But unfortunately, it's also known for housing some of the country's most expensive hotels and resorts.
The Rocabella Mykonos is a luxurious hotel situated on one of the island's most popular beaches. It boasts spectacular views and offers a wide range of world-class amenities. A night at this five-star accommodation is around $577 (€532) for two, though prices on luxury beach resorts can be as much as $1000 (€922).
Mid-range accommodations aren't much cheaper. Three-star hotels have an average price of $250 (€210) to $800 (€500). Vacation rentals or B&Bs are also around the same price per night. For affordable accommodation in Mykonos, Airbnbs might be your best option.
Santorini
Santorini is one of the most famous Greek Islands. It is a volcanic island renowned for its unique whitewashed buildings and incredible views over the Aegean Sea.
The island also has several hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. Five-star accommodations are generally found near the beach and have a price tag of around $400 (€370) to $1000 (€922) a night.
If you're visiting Santorini on your honeymoon, consider the Perivolas Hotel. This is an elegant hotel located on a cliff above the Aegean Sea.
Unlike Mykonos, mid-range accommodations in Santorini are relatively affordable. For example, you can stay at a three-star hotel for $120 (€110) a night. Many of these hotels also offer breathtaking views over Santorini's beaches and a wide range of amenities.
Many low-cost apartments and rentals are also available if you're traveling on a budget. These go for $80 (€73) a night.
Thessaloniki
Located on the Thermaic Gulf is the port city of Thessaloniki. This is arguably the most beautiful city in Greece and is popular for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and sandy beaches.
Another reason why this city is a favorite amongst tourists is its relatively affordable accommodation. Here, five-star hotels charge between $100 (€92) and $200 (€185) a night. In addition, many of these feature gourmet restaurants, outdoor pools, a spa, and a prime location, so you'll undoubtedly be getting your money's worth.
Mid-range hotels are more abundant in this part of Greece, so there are plenty of options for those on a smaller budget. These accommodations generally cost around $50 (€46) and $90 (€83) a night.
For backpackers, consider the Stay Hybrid Hostel. For just $46 a night, you'll have a comfortable place to stay right in the heart of Thessaloniki.
Crete
Anyone who loves sightseeing should include Crete on your list of Greece destinations. This is the largest Greek island and is home to hundreds of ancient ruins. It also boasts gorgeous landscapes, pristine beaches, and some of the best wine and food pairings.
When it comes to accommodations, Crete offers plenty of hotels and resorts. Most high-end resort rates fall between $200 (€185) and $500 (€460). A good pick is the luxurious Dome Zeens Chania. Here you'll find all the amenities needed for the perfect beach vacation.
Three-star accommodations are plentiful in Crete, too. Depending on the property type and location, these generally charge around $80 (€73) to $150 (€125) a night. While cheaper, many of these still find themselves on Cretes' magnificent beachfront.
There are also several hostels situated throughout Crete. Prices range between $20 (€17) and $80 (€73) a night, making it ideal for those traveling on a budget. Some guesthouses also come with a similar price tag.
How Much is Transportation in Greece?
Greece is a beautiful destination, and in Athens, many of its top attractions lie within walking distance of one another. For this reason, many can argue that the best way to get around its gorgeous cities is on foot.
While walking is convenient and cheap, many must-visit places are a bit further out. Luckily, there are several affordable forms of transportation in Greece. For example, you can go island hopping on the ferry or book a car rental to travel the Greek countryside. Let's take a look at some options below.
Metro, Bus, and Tram
Apart from walking, the best and easiest ways to get around Greece are by train, bus, or tram. In Athens, the Metro system comprises three lines that connect to the tram, bus routes, and suburban railway.
The metro operates daily from 5 am. Metro lines run until midnight or 2 am, depending on the line and day of the week. The suburban railway runs daily from 4:30 am until 11 pm. For more information, check out this Athens metro guide.
Greece also features an extensive bus network that runs daily from 5 am until midnight. In the cities, Greece buses depart frequently — just be sure to check your route's timetable. Trams operate around the same time schedule. If you're looking to travel from Athens to the seafront neighborhoods of Faliro, Piraeus, and Voula, this is your best option.
The metro, bus, and tram are all accessible using the same ticket. You'll find these tickets at booths and machines in the metro, bus, and tram stations. A single ticket price starts at around $1.50 (€1.38) for a 90-minute ride. Daily and five-day tickets are sold at $4.40 (€4) and $8.85 (€8.15), respectively.
Another good option is the 3-day tourist ticket. These cost around $22 (€20), provide unlimited travel, and include airport transfers.
Taxi
Taxis are another easy way to get around Greece. You'll find licensed vehicles ready to take you to your next destination throughout the various cities. Each of these features a meter, which charges passengers a fare relative to the distance traveled.
To board a taxi, you will need to pay around $1.30 (€1.20). You will then need to pay a certain amount for every mile traveled. This is generally around $0.60 (€0.55) per mile during the day and $1.11 (€1.02) per mile at night. Of course, the latter applies to rides outside the city too.
Depending on where you're traveling, the cost can quickly add up. Hidden charges like tips are also standard.
Note: There are several taxi services available in Greece. Some of these include Beat, Uber, and Taxiplon.
Rental Cars
If you're looking for more flexibility, consider getting a rental car. Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt all operate at Athens International Airport and elsewhere in the city.
While driving a car rental offers plenty of freedom, it has its downsides. Fuel is relatively expensive, costing around $2.23 (€2) per liter. Driving in Greece is also not so simple as the traffic in its major cities tends to be heavier, particularly during the morning, afternoon, and Friday and Saturday nights.
Several parking lots are located throughout Greece's cities, though street parking is not too easy to find. If you happen to find parking, you'll need to purchase a ticket. These have a rate of $1.25 (€1.15) per hour.
Note: For car rentals, you will require a valid driving license. This includes a European driving license for E.U. citizens and an international driving permit for other nationals.
Ferry
Plenty of boats and ferries sail between various parts of Greece, including some of the best Greek Islands. Most islands are accessible via Athens, making island hopping relatively easy. The best ports are Piraeus and Rafina, as these serve the most considerable number of Greek ferries.
You'll also find daily ferries between Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Paros, Crete, and Santorini.
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on your route and the offer, seat type, and cabin selection. For example, if you're traveling from Piraeus to Mykonos (3 hours 50 minutes), ticket prices range from $22 (€20) and $42 (€39) for a standard ferry. For a similar ticket to Santorini (6 hours 30 minutes), the average price is around $43 (€40).
Tip: To check the timetables, costs, and schedules of different routes, visit FerryHopper.com.
How Much Does Greek Food Cost?
If there's one thing you cannot miss when visiting Greece, it's the food. Greek food is a popular cuisine in many countries, but nothing beats authentic dishes served in their homeland.
Compared to other countries in the E.U., food in Greece is relatively affordable. With so many incredible restaurants, coffee shops, and bars throughout the city, you'll have plenty of options for each meal.
Breakfast
A typical Greek breakfast generally comprises a lovely selection of bread, pastries, fruits, and Greek yogurt. Most hotels and resorts also serve guests magnificent breakfasts.
If your hotel does not include breakfast in your stay, make your way to a local café. Here you'll be able to grab a toastie or pastry and a coffee for as little as $4 (€3.70) per person.
If you're a late sleeper, you'll be delighted to know that there are many incredible brunch spots throughout Greece.
Lunch
When it comes to lunch, you'll have plenty of options. If you're looking for something budget-friendly, visit neighborhood restaurants for the best souvlaki dish or head to a taverna for a hearty meal. This will cost you between $12 ($11) and $15 (€13.80) per person.
For those on the move, grabbing some traditional Greek fast food is another good option and can cost you as little as $5 (€4.60) per person. This is ideal for anyone on a tighter food budget.
Dinner
For dinner, many incredible restaurants serve delicious Greek cuisine and fresh seafood. This includes both budget-friendly and fine-dining establishments. Generally, a meal at a restaurant will cost you between $10 (€9.22) and $25 (€23) per person.
Where it begins to add up is with the drinks, costing around $5 (€4.60) for a beer (0.5-liter draught) and up to $18 (€16.60) for a mid-range bottle of red or white wine.
Groceries
If you're staying in self-catering accommodation, you'll be able to grab a meal at various restaurants, cafés, tavernas, and bars. You may also need some food staples and ingredients to make your own meals should you choose to dine in.
Make your way to a nearby grocery store or food market, and you'll find plenty of food items. For staples, you can expect to pay around $1.30 (€1.22) for a liter of milk, $1$1 (€0.90) for a loaf of bread, and $1.90 (€1.73) for a bag of rice.
Proteins are more expensive and will cost you between $7 (€6.75) and $10 $10 $10 (€9.23) per kilogram of chicken or beef. For a more budget-friendly option, you can get a dozen eggs for about $3.40 (€3.12).
How Much Is a Trip To Greece: Activities and Attractions
When planning your vacation to Greece, the final costs to consider are the various activities and attractions. Apart from the time spent at your accommodation, this makes up the bulk of your trip.
Each of Greece's cities and islands offers its own unique set of things to see and do. To provide a good look at what you may need to budget, here are some of Greece's best activities and attractions.
Athens: Acropolis
One of the best things to do in Athens is visit the famous Acropolis archeological site. These Athens tours generally include visiting the UNESCO-listed site and the adjacent museum.
Tours to Acropolis go for $42 per person. With this ticket, you will be able to explore the ruins and discover some of the most important works of contemporary architecture. This includes the Theater of Dionysus, the Temple of Nike, the Parthenon, and the Erechtheion.
Santorini: Volcanic Island Cruise
When you think of a Greece vacation, one activity that comes to mind is the luxurious day cruises. Some of the best cruises are in Santorini's Caldera region.
A good pick is this five-hour Santorini sailing cruise. For $162 (€150) per person, you'll be able to explore the volcanic islands and the Aegean Sea. You'll also stop by the volcanic hot springs, perfect for an afternoon swim.
Thessaloniki: Mount Olympus
One thing Thessaloniki is known for is its scenic, off-the-beaten-path hiking trails. One of the best hikes on the Greek Islands is Mount Olympus. There are three official ways to reach the top of this mountain — Prionia being the easiest and most popular. The other routes are more strenuous and require a fair amount of climbing.
Another fun way to experience Mount Olympus is on a guided tour. These full-day excursions usually include a visit to the ancient theater of Dion and a short trek to the Epineas Gorge of Mount Olympus. Trips cost around $60 (€55) and are a must for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Crete: Wine Tasting
Some consider Greece to be the 'new European wine country,' competing with the likes of Italy and France. It has a rich winemaking tradition, with Crete being one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. In addition, the Greek island is home to many indigenous varieties and has terrains and a climate well-suited to producing wine.
One of the best ways to experience the country's winemaking history is through a wine tasting. For just $70 (€65), take a day tour from Chania and explore the various family wineries throughout the region. You'll also get to sample some award-winning local wines and see the oldest olive tree in the world.
Mykonos: Delos
The ancient island of Delos is a must-see Greek attraction. It is an archeological site that boasts a rich history. The ancient stone huts found on the island suggest that it has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium B.C. It is also said to be the mythological birthplace of the Greek god Apollo.
There are private tours that visit Delos. Some of the most notable ones travel from Mykonos. So if you find yourself staying on this island, a day trip to Delos is a must and will cost you around $193 (€178) per person.
Zakynthos Island: Navagio Shipwreck Beach
One of the most popular shore excursions in Greece is Navagio Shipwreck Beach. With soft white sands, crystal blue waters, and views over the Ionian Sea, this is one of the most picturesque places to visit.
Navagio Shipwreck Beach is a popular day trip amongst tourists in Greece. Guided tours take visitors by boat towards Zakynthos Island, stopping by the Navagio viewpoint. This trip's ticket is about $50 (€46) per person.
Free Things to Do in Greece
The cost of visiting some of Greece's top tourist attractions adds up quickly, but there are ways to have fun and save money.
Some of the best things to do during your trip to Greece for free involve spending time outdoors. This includes visiting the country's best beaches, exploring its beautiful cities (either with the help of a car rental or not), and discovering its many natural wonders and ruins.
Some other notable attractions and activities for those looking to spend a bit less include:
- Picnics at the National Garden
- Free walking tours with a local guide.
- Explore Anafiotika and Plaka
- Visit a free museum or art gallery
- Marvel at the architecture throughout the major cities
- Hike the trail Fira - Oia
- Visit the Monolithos Castle
- Watch the sunset
- Take a walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou
- Soak up the sun on Paradise Beach
How Much Does the Average Trip to Greece Cost?
Now that you know the costs of traveling to Greece, how much will you need to budget? Below is a breakdown of the average prices for a two-week trip to Greece for two people. Note that we have not included flights as this will vary depending on where you're traveling from.
- Accommodation: $2100 USD (€1940) / $150 USD per night at a mid-range hotel
- Transportation: $60 USD (€55) metro services for 14 daily tickets, $200 USD (€185) ferry for five trips
- Meals: $490 USD (€450) food / $35 USD (€32) per day, $210 USD (€201) drinks / $15 USD (€13.83) per day
- Activities: $1154 USD (€1065) based on the six tours mentioned above
Based on these estimates, a two-week trip to Greece costs around $4214 (€3886) on average for two people — excluding airfare.
Final Thoughts
If you've planned your budget accordingly, you won't have to worry about money while on your Greece trip. The guide above highlighted the essential costs of visiting this beautiful, sun-kissed destination.
The guide also includes tips for saving money. So no matter your travel style — be it luxury or backpacking — you'll be able to plan a vacation that best suits your budget.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Greece itineraries today! You can be at Athens international airport in no time! Check out these incredible Greece vacation packages to help you get another step ahead.
