Do I need cash for Athens?
Do I need cash for Athens? Major tourist areas in Greece, like Athens and Thessaloniki, are mostly cash-free and will accept credit and debit cards and contactless payments. Plastic money is widely accepted in Greece, and the exchange rates are rather favorable.
Can I tip with US dollars in Greece?
Tip in the local currency Whenever you tip during your trip to Greece it is important to use the local currency, that is - Euros. Otherwise you'll leave your service providers with cash they can't use without paying high fees on currency exchange.
Where is best to exchange dollars for euros?
Banks and credit unions are generally the best places to exchange currency, with reasonable exchange rates and the lowest fees.
Should I bring USD to Greece?
Does Greece Accept U.S. Dollars? Establishments in Greece do not accept U.S. dollars as a form of payment. You will need Greek currency for cash transactions in Greece. In places that do accept physical U.S. dollars, such as hotels, using them may result in very unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees.
Should I carry cash in Greece?
Plastic money is widely accepted in Greece, and the exchange rates are rather favorable. Still, it would be best if you carried some cash, as many street vendors, artists, and small cafes only accept cash, while also cash is the preferred method of tipping in Greece.
How much do you tip for free Athens tour?
Don't forget to tip your tour guides! D.'s in Greek history. On a group tour, tip 5-10 Euros per day (even the free tours). On a private tour, give your tour guide 20 Euros per day.
Can you wear shorts in Athens Greece?
It is acceptable to wear shorts, whether you are a woman or a man. However, NEVER (and I do mean NEVER) wear shorts if you want to visit a church or monastery. Also, if you plan to do a walking tour of Athens, ditch the shorts and opt for a dress – if you are a woman – or a pair of long pants – if you are a man.
How much cash should I bring to Greece?
Despite problems in the Greek economy, it's still on the expensive side to travel to Greece. Budget travelers should plan on $50 a day, while mid-range to luxury travelers can expect to pay between $150 to $350 a day, or higher if you plan to visit more than one of its 200 islands. All prices are in US dollars.
Do they prefer cash or card in Greece?
While cash used to dominate the Greek market, new laws require most Greek businesses to accept credit cards. However, cash payments are still extremely common, particularly among smaller businesses such as convenience stores.
Can I use my US debit card in Greece?
The best way to get euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for euros before arriving. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Greece, but it's important to be cautious of bank fees and to confirm that a business accepts cards before ordering.
Where to convert usd to euros in greece?
Foreign currency can be exchanged at most Greek and foreign banks and at exchange bureaus located at Athens International Airport, Piraeus port, and around the city centre. You will need your passport to exchange money. Travellers checks and credit cards are also widely accepted.
Is it better to use cash or card in Athens?
Plastic money is widely accepted in Greece, and the exchange rates are rather favorable. Still, it would be best if you carried some cash, as many street vendors, artists, and small cafes only accept cash, while also cash is the preferred method of tipping in Greece.
Is it rude not to tip in Greece?
There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it's become expected that tourists leave a small tip while travelling through the country. In restaurants it's common to leave a cash tip for whoever is looking after you – 10–15 per cent is standard.
Can you drink tap water in Athens?
The answer is yes. Tap water in Athens is absolutely safe to drink. This is why we do not have to buy water bottles since all buildings have direct access to drinkable water from the nearby lakes Marathon and Yliki.
Should I get euros before going to Greece?
Greece uses the euro as its currency, and businesses only accept Euros for payment. It's a good idea to carry some Greece currency for cash transactions, especially in remote areas. The best way to get euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for euros before arriving.
What can I not bring into Greece?
It's not permitted to import meat or dairy products into Greece from outside the EU. Also prohibited are unauthorised firearms and ammunition.
Should you tip in Greece?
Tipping is a common practice in Greece, especially in the hospitality industry. It is a way to show appreciation for good service. It's recommended to have cash on hand for tipping purposes. While some establishments accept credit cards, it's easier and more convenient to tip with cash, especially for smaller amounts.
Should I exchange money before I travel to Europe?
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most European cities. American Express is too, but perhaps less widely. Paying by card can be easier and more convenient. You don't need to worry about changing money at a foreign exchange counter, or worry about security when carrying cash around with you.