Is it better to use cash or card in Greece?

If you plan on visiting Greece soon, you might be creating and working out a travel budget right now. No matter how much you plan on spending, it’s important to know the financial habits of the locals. Some countries are still very cash-oriented, while people in others prefer various types of cashless payment methods.

Card use is becoming increasingly more popular in Greece, but it might not be enough to rely solely on them. Although it depends on where exactly you’re travelling to, having some cash on you might come in handy. But which is more convenient, cash or card in Greece?

We’ll go into more detail in this article and also show you a cost-effective way to handle your finances in Greece.

How cash-centric is Greece?

Payment card issuance in Greece has been on the rise in the past years, but statistically cash transactions still make up the majority of transactions.¹ This is especially noticeable in small towns and villages. Over 70 percent of people in Greece still use cash at points of sale.²

Cash being the primary way of payment in Greece might change soon, since card terminals will become mandatory in many sectors where they previously weren’t. Starting from the 1st of April 2024, people are able to pay by card in all kiosks, open-air markets, taxis and many more businesses. This mean that businesses in Greece will be legally obliged to have card terminals.³

Even though more businesses will be accepting cards in the future, it’s still convenient to keep some cash on you. Card terminals don’t always work and there’s a chance you won’t even find one if you’re travelling to the Greek countryside or islands.

Cash etiquette in Greece

Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but it’s greatly appreciated. The most common tip is around 10-15%, but people sometimes leave enough to round up the bill. If possible, it’s best to leave a cash tip, so make sure you have some on you.⁴

If you’re paying cash for a small bill, try not to use big denominations. The recipient might not always have change, so having some coins in your pocket can be convenient.

Cash or card in Greece - the comparison

We’ve listed some common situations where you’ll be paying for things in Greece. Here’s whether you’ll be able to pay by card, in cash or both:

Payment for...	Card 💳	Cash 💶
🚕 Taxis	Yes (since 1st of April 2024)³	Yes
🏪 Convenience stores	Yes	Yes
🛍 Open-air markets	Yes (since 1st of April 2024)³	Yes, often preferred
🚃 Public transport	Depends on transport (available in Athens by the end of 2024)⁵	Yes
🚌 Regional/city busses	Sometimes (at the moment, in 33 cities and islands)⁶	Yes
🥗 Tavernas	Depends on the location	Yes
🌴 Beach chairs	Sometimes	Yes, often preferred
⛴ Ferry tickets	Yes	Yes

Using your card in Greece at an ATM

It’s usually not difficult to find ATMs in Greece. If you’re visiting a tourist area, there will likely be many of them. Greek ATMs accept international cards, so you’ll be able to use yours without issue.

Make sure you only use official bank ATMs, since there have been cases of different cash withdrawal companies charging high exchange rates.⁷ There are both Greek and international banks to choose from.

Top tip: When using an ATM abroad, always withdraw cash in the local currency, to avoid paying a higher exchange rate. Remember to check with your bank or card provider before you travel too, as there may be limits on the amount you can withdraw daily.

Will my UK debit card work in Greece?

UK debit cards can be used in Greece, both for payments and withdrawing money. If you plan on going to a really small town, consider bringing some cash with you as an alternative.

If you just want to bring a debit card with you, you can also use the Wise card in Greece.

Learn more about the Wise card 💳

Can I use my UK credit card in Greece?

Yes, you can use any UK issued credit card on your Greek holiday.

Reasons to use cash in Greece

Although Greek businesses are legally required to have card terminals, you still shouldn’t ditch cash completely. Some small businesses and artists still might prefer or only accept cash payments.

Cash is especially important if you plan on visiting smaller towns, villages and Greek islands where there aren’t as many tourists.

Some Greek beaches charge you for using their chairs and umbrellas. Cash is preferred in these situations, especially if you also want to buy something from the beach vendors. They sometimes sell souvenirs, sunglasses or even offer massage services.

Another reason for carrying cash is tipping. When you tip in cash, you’re making sure that the specific person that served you receives the tip. You can leave cash tips in restaurants, taxis, hotels or when you’re on a guided tour.

Reasons to use credit or debit cards in Greece

If you’re travelling to a large city in Greece, you’ll be able to pay with your card anywhere. Carrying a card only is convenient and it protects you from potential pickpockets.

Also, if you’re going to a less populated or visited town, chances are that there will only be one ATM in the area. If you don’t already have enough cash on you, don’t waste your time getting to the bank - use your card instead.

Are contactless card payments common in Greece?

Contactless payments are the norm in Greece. Just know that, like anywhere else, there’s a limit for these transactions. If your purchase is over €50, you’ll need to provide your PIN.⁸

Your Wise card can also be used for contactless payments in Greece. If you don’t want to carry cards with you, you can get the Wise virtual card with the same features.

Other payment methods in Greece

Besides traditional credit and debit cards, other payment methods are available in Greece.

Mobile payment⁹

Well known mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay or PayPal are also very popular in Greece. There are also digital wallets and apps for locals, such as i-bank Pay, created by the National Bank of Greece.¹⁰ However, smaller shops are less likely to accept them and prefer cards or cash.

The Wise virtual card is a great digital option. It has all the benefits of a regular Wise card, but it exists in your phone's digital wallet.

What is the best way to pay in Greece: cash or card?

When travelling to popular tourist spots, you can use whichever is more convenient for you. If you have to choose one or the other, it’s better to use cash in Greece. There aren’t any completely cashless places, so you can always pay with cash. If you’re already carrying it for tipping purposes, might as well use it as your preferred payment method.

Spend like a local in Greece with Wise

Want to spend like a local in 150+ countries, including Greece, without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees? The Wise card might be just the thing you’re looking for.

The Wise card can be used for international payments, including accommodation costs and daily expenses. It automatically converts the currency at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

You can also use it to easily withdraw euros from the ATMs in Greece.

Spend like a local with Wise 💳

Cash or card in Greece - FAQs

To summarise, here are some of the most frequent questions about using cash or cards in Greece.

How cashless is Greece?

Not at all. Even though credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Greece, cash payments still make up the majority of all transactions.

How much money should I take for two weeks in Greece?

That greatly depends on your spending habits. However, you can always withdraw more money if you end up needing it.

Can I use my UK debit card in Greece?

Yes! International cards are accepted in Greece, including the Wise card.

Is it free to withdraw cash in Greece?

It depends on the bank. Some banks have ATM fees, so it’s best to check in advance.

Do taxis in Greece take card payment?

Yes. Starting April 2024, all taxis in Greece must have card payment terminals available for their customers.

---

Sources used in this article:

1. Statista - payment cards issued in Greece 2000-2022
2. Statista - cash usage in Greece from 2019 to 2023
3. eKathimerini - POS in all Greek businesses from April 1
4. Intrepid Travel - tipping etiquette in Greece
5. eKathimerini - use of bank cards and smartphones for public transport
6. AMCO - electronic contactless payments on city buses of 33 cities
7. The National Herald - Euronet ATM charging high exchange rates
8. Athens by Locals - limit for contactless card payments
9. Pay.com - popular mobile payment options in Greece
10. NBG Group - NBG digital wallet

Sources last checked on date: 09-Apr-2024