Greece is often seen as a luxury destination, but it’s also an excellent country for backpackers. With reliable public transport, affordable food, welcoming locals, and a mix of islands, mountains, and historic cities, Greece can be explored on a budget with the right planning.
Whether you’re island hopping, hiking ancient paths, or staying in hostels and guesthouses, backpacking Greece offers rich experiences without excessive costs.
Popular Backpacking Routes in Greece
1. Athens → Cyclades Route
Athens → Paros → Naxos → Ios
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Ideal for first-time backpackers
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Good ferry connections
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Balance of beaches, nightlife, and culture
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Plenty of hostels and budget rooms
Avoid peak-season Mykonos and Santorini unless you’re visiting shoulder months.
2. Mainland Explorer Route
Athens → Meteora → Thessaloniki → Epirus
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Budget-friendly buses and trains
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Stunning landscapes and UNESCO sites
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Less touristy than the islands
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Ideal for hiking and cultural travel
This route offers great value and authentic experiences.
3. Crete on a Budget
Chania → Rethymno → Heraklion
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Excellent bus network
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Affordable food and accommodation
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Ideal for long stays
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Great hiking (Samaria Gorge)
Crete is one of the best value destinations in Greece for backpackers.
4. Ionian Coast Route
Corfu → Lefkada → Parga
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Lush landscapes
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Cheaper accommodation than the Aegean
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Excellent beaches
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Good bus and road connections
How Much Does Backpacking Greece Cost?
Daily Budget (per person)
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Accommodation: €15–30 (hostels/shared rooms)
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Food: €15–25 (street food, bakeries, tavernas)
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Transport: €5–15 (buses, ferries spread over days)
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Attractions: €5–10
💡 Average daily budget: €35–60
Budget Accommodation Tips
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Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or rooms to let (domatia)
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Travel in May–June or September–October
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Ask locals — many rooms aren’t listed online
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Consider longer stays for weekly discounts
Eating Well on a Budget
Greek food is one of the best parts of backpacking Greece:
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Gyros & souvlaki: €3–4
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Bakeries: spanakopita, tyropita for €2–3
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Meze tavernas: shared plates keep costs low
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Markets: fresh fruit, yogurt, bread, and cheese
Tap water is drinkable in most mainland areas, saving money.
Getting Around Cheaply
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KTEL buses: reliable and affordable across Greece
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Trains: cheaper than buses on some routes
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Ferries: book early, avoid high-speed ferries
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Walking & hitchhiking: common in islands and rural areas
Practical Backpacking Tips
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Carry cash for small villages
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Learn basic Greek words — locals appreciate it
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Pack light; ferries and buses reward flexibility
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Respect siesta hours (2–5 pm)
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Use reusable water bottles
Best Time to Backpack Greece
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Spring (April–June): best balance of cost and weather
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Autumn (September–October): warm seas, fewer crowds
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Summer (July–August): possible but more expensive
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Winter: ideal for mainland and cities, not islands
Backpacking Greece is rewarding, affordable, and full of variety. From ancient ruins and mountain villages to island sunsets and seaside meals, Greece offers incredible value for travelers who move slowly and travel smart.
With good planning and an open mindset, you’ll discover that Greece isn’t just a postcard destination — it’s one of Europe’s best backpacking experiences.
