How Much is a Trip to Greece? 2026 Budget Guide

Greece has captivated travelers for millennia with its ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, and Mediterranean charm. But before you book that flight to Athens, you're probably wondering: how much will this dream vacation actually cost?

The answer depends on your travel style, destination choices, and how long you plan to stay. A budget backpacker can explore Greece for as little as €40-60 per day, while luxury travelers might spend €300+ daily on premium experiences.

Understanding Greece Travel Costs

Greece offers exceptional value compared to other Western European destinations. Your total trip cost will vary dramatically based on when you visit, which regions you explore, and your accommodation preferences.

The good news? Greece caters to every budget level without compromising on authentic experiences. Whether you're island-hopping on a shoestring or indulging in five-star luxury, you'll find options that work for your wallet.

Flight Costs to Greece

International flights represent your biggest single expense. Prices fluctuate wildly based on departure city, season, and booking timing.

Average Flight Prices by Region:

• North America to Athens: €400-900 round-trip
• UK to Athens: €80-300 round-trip
• Europe to Athens: €50-250 round-trip
• Australia to Athens: €800-1,500 round-trip

Book 2-3 months in advance for shoulder season travel (April-May, September-October). Last-minute summer flights can cost double the off-season rates, especially to popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos.

Money-Saving Flight Tips:

• Fly into Athens instead of island airports for better rates
• Consider Tuesday and Wednesday departures for lower fares
• Use flight comparison tools and set price alerts
• Book separate one-way tickets if cheaper than round-trip
• Check alternative airports like Thessaloniki for northern Greece trips

Accommodation Costs Breakdown

Where you sleep dramatically impacts your daily budget. Greece offers everything from €10 hostel beds to €1,000+ luxury suites.

Budget Accommodation (€20-50 per night)

Hostel dorms and basic guesthouses provide clean, comfortable lodging. Many family-run pensions include breakfast and offer incredible hospitality that makes up for basic amenities.

Budget Options Include:

• Hostel dorm beds: €10-25
• Private hostel rooms: €30-50
• Basic guesthouses: €25-45
• Airbnb shared rooms: €15-35

Mid-Range Accommodation (€50-150 per night)

This sweet spot offers excellent value with comfortable hotels, boutique properties, and well-appointed apartments. You'll enjoy private bathrooms, air conditioning, and often pool access.

Mid-Range Choices:

• Three-star hotels: €60-100
• Boutique guesthouses: €70-120
• Airbnb entire apartments: €50-90
• Traditional cave houses (Santorini): €80-150

Luxury Accommodation (€150+ per night)

Greece's luxury properties rival any in the world. From clifftop Santorini suites to historic Peloponnese retreats like the Euphoria Retreat, premium options deliver unforgettable experiences.

Luxury Categories:

• Four-star hotels: €120-200
• Five-star resorts: €200-500
• Private villas: €250-1,000+
• Boutique luxury hotels: €180-400

Daily Food and Drink Expenses

Greek cuisine is both delicious and affordable. You can eat incredibly well without breaking the bank, especially if you embrace local tavernas over tourist traps.

Budget Eating (€15-25 per day)

Street food, bakeries, and local markets let you eat authentically for less. Gyros cost €2-4, while bakery pastries run €1-3 each.

Budget Meal Costs:

• Breakfast (bakery): €2-5
• Gyros or souvlaki: €2-4
• Supermarket lunch: €3-6
• Casual taverna dinner: €8-12
• Coffee: €1.50-3
• Beer: €2-4

Mid-Range Dining (€25-50 per day)

Sit-down taverna meals with wine let you savor traditional Greek hospitality. Most tavernas offer generous portions at reasonable prices, especially outside tourist zones.

Mid-Range Meal Budget:

• Hotel breakfast: €5-10
• Lunch at casual restaurant: €10-15
• Dinner at traditional taverna: €15-25
• Wine by the glass: €3-6
• Cocktails: €6-10

Luxury Dining (€50+ per day)

Fine dining restaurants, waterfront seafood, and wine tastings elevate your culinary experience. Greece's farm-to-table movement has created exceptional high-end dining scenes in Athens and major islands.

Don't miss trying authentic Greek alcohol and Greek liquor at local distilleries and tavernas.

Transportation Costs in Greece

Getting around Greece requires strategic planning. Island ferries, domestic flights, and rental cars each have distinct cost structures.

Inter-Island Ferries

Ferry travel is essential for island hopping. Prices vary by distance, speed (slow vs. fast ferries), and class.

Typical Ferry Costs:

• Athens to Santorini (economy): €35-80
• Santorini to Mykonos: €30-65
• Athens to Crete: €40-90
• Short island hops: €10-25
• High-speed catamaran premium: +50-100%

Domestic Flights

Budget airlines like Sky Express and Aegean offer competitive island flights. Book early for the best rates, especially during summer peak season.

Average Domestic Flight Prices:

• Athens to Santorini: €40-120
• Athens to Crete: €35-100
• Athens to Rhodes: €45-130
• Inter-island flights: €50-150

Car Rentals

Renting a car opens up mainland exploration and larger islands. The Peloponnese particularly rewards road-tripping between Greek cities and archaeological sites.

Car Rental Costs:

• Economy car: €25-40 per day
• Mid-size vehicle: €35-60 per day
• SUV: €50-90 per day
• Scooter/ATV: €15-30 per day
• Fuel: €1.80-2 per liter

Public Transportation

Athens and Thessaloniki have efficient metro systems. Local buses serve most towns affordably, though schedules can be limited outside peak season.

Public Transport Prices:

• Athens metro single: €1.40
• Athens day pass: €4.50
• Local bus rides: €1.20-2
• Athens to Nafplio bus: €14-18
• Taxi starting fare: €3.50-4

Activities and Attraction Costs

Greece's greatest treasures range from free beaches to paid archaeological sites. Budget wisely for entrance fees and tours to maximize your experience.

Archaeological Sites

Ancient ruins are Greece's main draw. The €30 multi-site Athens pass covers the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and five other major sites.

Major Site Entrance Fees:

• Acropolis, Athens: €20 (€10 winter)
• Ancient Olympia: €12
• Delphi: €12
• Mycenae: €12
• Epidaurus: €12
• Knossos, Crete: €15

Many sites offer free entry on specific dates and reduced winter pricing. Students with valid ID receive 50% discounts at most attractions.

Guided Tours

Professional tours add context and convenience. Consider booking specialized experiences like our Nafplio Mycenae Epidavros tour to discover the Peloponnese's treasures with expert guides.

Tour Price Ranges:

• Walking tours: €15-40
• Half-day tours: €50-90
• Full-day tours: €80-150
• Multi-day tours: €200-500+
• Private tours: €150-400

Beach and Nature Activities

Greece's natural beauty is often free. Beaches require no entrance fees, and hiking trails through mountains and gorges cost nothing.

Activity Costs:

• Beach sunbed rental: €5-15
• Snorkeling equipment: €10-20
• Kayak rental: €20-40
• Boat trips: €30-80
• Diving courses: €60-300

Sample Daily Budgets by Travel Style

Here's what you can expect to spend per day based on your travel preferences. These estimates include accommodation, food, local transport, and activities.

Budget Traveler (€40-60 per day)

Daily Breakdown:

• Accommodation: €15-25 (hostel dorm)
• Food: €15-20 (markets, street food)
• Transport: €5-10 (public buses)
• Activities: €5-10 (free sites, occasional entrance)
• Extras: €0-5 (minimal shopping)

Mid-Range Traveler (€100-150 per day)

Daily Breakdown:

• Accommodation: €50-80 (comfortable hotel)
• Food: €30-40 (tavernas, cafes)
• Transport: €15-20 (ferries, occasional taxis)
• Activities: €15-25 (site entrances, tours)
• Extras: €10-15 (souvenirs, drinks)

Luxury Traveler (€250-400+ per day)

Daily Breakdown:

• Accommodation: €150-250 (luxury hotel)
• Food: €60-80 (fine dining)
• Transport: €30-50 (private transfers, car rental)
• Activities: €40-60 (private tours, experiences)
• Extras: €20-40 (shopping, premium drinks)

Total Trip Costs for Different Durations

Let's calculate complete trip costs including international flights. These estimates cover a typical Greece itinerary mixing Athens with 1-2 islands.

One Week in Greece

Budget Trip (7 days):

• Flights: €400-600
• Accommodation: €105-175 (7 nights)
• Food: €105-140
• Transport: €50-80
• Activities: €40-70
• Total: €700-1,065

Mid-Range Trip (7 days):

• Flights: €500-800
• Accommodation: €350-560
• Food: €210-280
• Transport: €120-180
• Activities: €120-200
• Total: €1,300-2,020

Luxury Trip (7 days):

• Flights: €800-1,200
• Accommodation: €1,050-1,750
• Food: €420-560
• Transport: €250-400
• Activities: €300-500
• Total: €2,820-4,410

Two Weeks in Greece

Two weeks allows deeper exploration of multiple regions. You might combine Athens, the Peloponnese, and several islands for a comprehensive Greek experience.

Budget Trip (14 days):

• Flights: €400-600
• Accommodation: €210-350
• Food: €210-280
• Transport: €100-150
• Activities: €70-120
• Total: €990-1,500

Mid-Range Trip (14 days):

• Flights: €500-800
• Accommodation: €700-1,120
• Food: €420-560
• Transport: €240-320
• Activities: €240-350
• Total: €2,100-3,150

Luxury Trip (14 days):

• Flights: €800-1,200
• Accommodation: €2,100-3,500
• Food: €840-1,120
• Transport: €500-700
• Activities: €600-900
• Total: €4,840-7,420

When to Visit for Best Value

Timing dramatically affects costs. Summer (June-August) brings peak prices and crowds, while shoulder seasons offer sweet spots of good weather and lower costs.

Peak Season (June-August)

Expect maximum prices for everything. Islands like Santorini and Mykonos see 50-100% price increases for accommodation compared to off-season rates.

Peak Season Considerations:

• Flight prices 30-50% higher
• Accommodation doubles in cost
• Ferries fully booked weeks ahead
• Restaurants and beaches crowded
• Best weather guaranteed

Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)

This is the ideal time for value-conscious travelers. Weather remains excellent while prices drop significantly compared to summer peaks.

Check out Greece weather in October to plan your shoulder season visit perfectly.

Shoulder Season Benefits:

• Accommodation 30-40% cheaper
• Fewer tourists at major sites
• Pleasant temperatures (20-28°C)
• Swimming still comfortable
• Better flight deals available

Off-Season (November-March)

Winter travel offers rock-bottom prices but limited island services. Many island hotels and restaurants close entirely, though Athens and mainland destinations remain vibrant.

Off-Season Advantages:

• Accommodation 50-60% cheaper
• Authentic local experiences
• Archaeological sites uncrowded
• Flight bargains abundant
• Mainland destinations fully operational

Money-Saving Strategies for Greece

Smart travelers can significantly reduce costs without sacrificing experiences. These proven strategies help stretch your budget further.

Accommodation Savings

Book Smart:

• Stay in less touristy neighborhoods
• Book apartments with kitchens for self-catering
• Choose family-run pensions over chain hotels
• Travel in shoulder season for 30-50% savings
• Book directly with properties for better rates
• Consider house-sitting or home exchanges

Food and Drink Savings

Eating like locals saves money and provides authentic experiences. Avoid restaurants with picture menus in tourist zones—they're always overpriced.

Dining Tips:

• Shop at local markets for picnic supplies
• Eat your main meal at lunch (cheaper menus)
• Choose tavernas where Greeks eat
• Order Greek coffee instead of cappuccino
• Buy wine from supermarkets, not restaurants
• Fill water bottles from public fountains

Transportation Savings

Transport costs add up quickly when island hopping. Strategic planning reduces these expenses substantially.

Getting Around for Less:

• Take slow ferries instead of high-speed catamarans
• Book domestic flights 2+ months ahead
• Use public buses instead of taxis
• Walk between nearby attractions
• Share car rentals with other travelers
• Consider multi-day ferry passes for island hopping

Activity Savings

Greece's best experiences often cost nothing. Beaches, hiking trails, village wandering, and sunset viewing are completely free.

Free and Cheap Activities:

• Visit archaeological sites on free entry days
• Explore free museums and galleries
• Hike ancient paths and gorges
• Attend local festivals and celebrations
• Watch sunsets from public viewpoints
• Swim at public beaches (skip sunbed rentals)

Explore fascinating fun facts about Greece while planning your budget-friendly adventure.

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Don't let unexpected expenses derail your budget. These often-overlooked costs catch travelers by surprise.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Often-Forgotten Costs:

• Travel insurance: €50-150
• Visa fees (if required): €0-80
• Airport transfers: €20-50 per transfer
• Luggage storage: €5-10 per day
• ATM withdrawal fees: €3-5 per transaction
• Resort/tourist taxes: €0.50-4 per night
• Tipping (optional but appreciated): 5-10%
• Sunscreen and toiletries: €20-40
• SIM card or roaming: €20-50
• Souvenirs and gifts: €50-200

Regional Cost Variations

Not all Greek destinations cost the same. Islands and regions vary dramatically in price levels.

Most Expensive Destinations

Certain hotspots command premium prices year-round. These glamorous destinations cater to luxury travelers and charge accordingly.

Priciest Greek Destinations:

• Santorini (especially Oia)
• Mykonos
• Hydra
• Corfu town
• Rhodes old town

Best Value Destinations

Lesser-known regions offer authentic Greek experiences at fraction of tourist hotspot prices. The Peloponnese particularly delivers exceptional value.

Budget-Friendly Regions:

• Peloponnese mainland
• Naxos
• Paros
• Crete (outside Chania/Heraklion)
• Northern Greece

Discover affordable treasures like Gytheio and explore historical sites near Porto Heli without the tourist crowds.

Quick Facts About Greece Travel Costs

Essential Budget Information:

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Average daily budget: €40-400 depending on style
• Credit cards widely accepted in cities and tourist areas
• ATMs abundant but may charge €3-5 fees
• Tipping not mandatory but 5-10% appreciated
• VAT included in posted prices (24% standard rate)
• Student discounts available at most archaeological sites
• Free museum days: March 25, October 28, first Sunday of month (Nov-Mar)
• Water safe to drink in most areas
• Bargaining acceptable at markets, not in shops

Travel Tips for Maximizing Your Budget

Smart Money Management:

• Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
• Carry some cash for small villages and tavernas
• Use credit cards without foreign transaction fees
• Download offline maps to avoid roaming charges
• Learn basic Greek phrases for better local prices
• Join free walking tours then tip your guide
• Book combination tickets for multiple sites
• Travel light to avoid baggage fees
• Stay flexible with dates for better flight prices
• Consider travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage

Making the Most of Your Greece Budget

Greece rewards travelers who balance planning with spontaneity. While budgeting is essential, don't let penny-pinching prevent you from experiencing Greece's magic.

Splurge strategically on experiences that matter most to you. Maybe that's a sunset dinner in Santorini, a private tour of Mycenae, or a luxury hotel with Acropolis views.

Consider booking expertly curated experiences like our Nafplio Sparta Mystras tour to maximize your time and gain deeper insights into Greek history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Greece?

Budget travelers need approximately €1,000-1,500 total including flights for two weeks in Greece. Mid-range travelers should budget €2,100-3,150, while luxury travelers can expect to spend €4,840-7,420 or more. Your total depends on accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities selected.

Is Greece expensive compared to other European countries?

Greece is generally more affordable than Western European destinations like France, Italy, or Spain. Accommodation and dining cost 20-40% less than comparable options in Paris or Rome. However, popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos approach Western European price levels during peak summer season.

What's the cheapest month to visit Greece?

November through March offers the lowest prices, with accommodation and flights 50-60% cheaper than summer rates. However, many island businesses close during winter. For the best balance of value and experience, visit in April-May or September-October when prices drop 30-40% but weather remains excellent.

How much cash should I bring to Greece?

Carry €200-300 in cash for emergencies and small purchases. Most restaurants, hotels, and shops accept credit cards, but small tavernas, markets, and remote villages may be cash-only. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas for withdrawing additional euros as needed.

Are meals expensive in Greece?

Greek dining is quite affordable compared to other European countries. Budget €15-25 daily for basic meals, €25-50 for mid-range taverna dining, or €50+ for upscale restaurants. A typical taverna dinner with wine costs €15-25 per person, while gyros and street food run just €2-4.

Should I book tours in advance or locally?

Book popular tours and experiences 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (June-August) to ensure availability and often secure better rates. Shoulder and off-season visitors can usually book locally with minimal advance planning. Private tours and specialized experiences like archaeological site visits with expert guides should always be booked ahead.

How much does island hopping cost?

Island hopping costs vary by route and ferry type. Budget €30-80 per ferry crossing on economy class slow ferries, or €50-120 on high-speed catamarans. A typical one-week island-hopping itinerary visiting 2-3 islands costs €100-250 in ferry tickets alone. Booking in advance often provides modest savings.

Can I visit Greece on a tight budget?

Absolutely! Greece is very backpacker-friendly with hostels, affordable street food, free beaches, and reasonable public transportation. Budget travelers can explore Greece comfortably on €40-60 daily by staying in hostels, eating at local spots, using public transport, and focusing on free activities like beaches and hiking. Many archaeological sites offer free entry days throughout the year.