Greece is an incredible destination, filled with beautiful islands, historic landmarks, and delicious food. But traveling here can get expensive if you’re not careful. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Greece. With the right planning, you can experience everything Greece has to offer, even on a budget.
1. Save on Accommodation
Accommodation can be one of the biggest costs when traveling. Here’s how you can cut those costs in Greece:
Stay in hostels or guesthouses
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Hostels are a great option if you’re looking to save money. You can find dorms as cheap as €10-15 per night. If you prefer a bit more privacy but still want a budget-friendly option, guesthouses and family-run hotels are a great alternative. These often cost between €25-40 per night.
Use Airbnb for longer stays
If you plan on staying in one place for a few days or a week, consider booking an apartment on Airbnb. You’ll find plenty of options for less than €40 per night, and if you’re staying longer, hosts often offer discounts for weekly stays.
Camp on the islands
Greece is known for its stunning islands, and the best way to enjoy them on a budget is by camping. Many islands like Naxos and Crete have campsites where you can pitch a tent for about €5-10 per night. It’s a great way to save money and still enjoy the beauty of the Greek outdoors.
2. Eat Cheap, Eat Local
Greek food is not only delicious, but it can also be incredibly affordable if you know where to go. Here are some tips to eat well without spending too much:
Eat at a gyros shop
Gyros are cheap, filling, and delicious. You can get one for around €2-4. Pita with souvlaki also makes for a great budget-friendly meal. These small takeaway shops are found everywhere, and they offer some of the tastiest food in Greece.
Go for the tavernas
Skip the fancy restaurants and eat at the local tavernas. You can easily get a full meal for €10-15. Order mezes (small dishes) to share, and you’ll get to taste a variety of flavors without spending too much.
Shop at local markets
Another way to save money on food is by shopping at local markets and preparing your meals. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, and meats at low prices. If you’re staying at an Airbnb or hostel with kitchen facilities, cooking your own meals a few times will help you stay within your budget.
Avoid main tourist areas
Restaurants in tourist-heavy spots tend to be overpriced. Walk a few streets away from the main attractions, and you’ll find cheaper and often better-quality food.
3. Budget-Friendly Transportation
Use public transportation
The public transportation system in Greece is affordable and reliable. In Athens, a one-way metro or bus ticket costs €1.20-1.40. On the islands, you can take local buses for a few euros, much cheaper than taxis or renting a car.
Travel by ferry
Ferries are a fantastic way to hop between islands. They’re relatively affordable if you stick to the large, slower ferries rather than the high-speed options. A standard ferry ride can cost around €20-40, while a fast ferry can cost double that. If you’re not in a rush, the slower ferries are a great way to see the water and save money.
Book bus rides instead of flights
If you’re traveling between cities, such as from Athens to Thessaloniki, taking the bus is much cheaper than flying. A bus ticket for long distances usually costs between €20 and €40, depending on the route.
4. Cheap or Free Attractions
There’s plenty to see and do in Greece that won’t drain your wallet. Here’s how you can enjoy the best of Greek culture and history without spending a fortune:
Visit museums on free days
Many museums in Greece offer free entry on certain days. For example, the Acropolis Museum in Athens is free on the first Sunday of each month from November to March. Check the museum websites for free-entry days to save a few euros.
Explore ancient ruins
Greece is full of ancient ruins, many of which are free to explore, like the Temple of Hephaestus or the Ancient Agora (outside of the Acropolis area). Even if some require an entry fee, it’s usually reasonable—typically €10-20. Check for discounts if you’re a student or buy combo tickets which include entrance to multiple sites.
Enjoy the beaches
One of the biggest free attractions in Greece is its incredible beaches. Whether you’re on the mainland or one of the islands, there are beautiful public beaches everywhere. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking in the sun and sea without spending a dime.
Take a hike
Greece has some stunning hiking trails. One of the most famous is the Samaria Gorge in Crete, but there are hundreds of other trails that are free to explore, from the hills surrounding Athens to the volcanic craters of Nisyros. Lace up your hiking boots and enjoy the scenery!
5. Visit Affordable Destinations
While some Greek destinations like Santorini can get pricey, other locations are much more budget-friendly. Here are some cheaper alternatives:
Thessaloniki
Greece’s second-largest city is loaded with history, fantastic food, and vibrant nightlife. It’s much cheaper than Athens and the islands. You can explore the White Tower, walk along the waterfront, or visit the Archaeological Museum for free or low cost.
Naxos
If you want to experience the Greek islands on a budget, Naxos is a great alternative to Santorini or Mykonos. It’s the largest island in the Cyclades, and its beautiful beaches, mountain villages, and ancient ruins are all affordable—or free—to enjoy.
Peloponnese
The Peloponnese peninsula is packed with history, from ancient Olympia to medieval castles. It’s less touristy and cheaper than areas like the Cyclades, and you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly places to stay and eat.
6. Miscellaneous Tips for Saving Money
Travel in the off-season
Greece can get crowded and expensive during peak season (July and August). If you can, visit in the shoulder season: April to June or September to October. Accommodation prices drop, flights get cheaper, and the weather is still great.
Use free WiFi
To save on data charges, take advantage of free WiFi which is available in most cafes, restaurants, and public areas in cities and islands. Just buy a coffee, and use the time to plan out your next steps.
Negotiate prices
In smaller shops and markets, it’s common to negotiate prices. Don’t be shy to ask for a discount, especially if you’re buying multiple items. Every little euro saved adds up!
Cut down on souvenirs
Souvenirs can quickly add up and hurt your wallet. Instead of spending lots of money on souvenirs, focus on taking photos and making memories. If you do want something to take home, consider getting something small and locally made, like olive oil or a small piece of Greek pottery.
Conclusion
Traveling to Greece doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right strategy, you can enjoy everything from delicious food to stunning sights without going over your budget. Stay in affordable accommodations, eat at local spots, use public transportation, and take advantage of free attractions. Greece is as beautiful as it is diverse, and with a little planning, you’ll enjoy it without emptying your wallet.
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