Greece has a reputation for being both a dream destination and, sometimes, an expensive one. With images of luxury resorts in Santorini and yachts in Mykonos everywhere, many American travelers wonder: Is Greece actually expensive — or just selectively pricey?
The short answer: Greece can be very affordable or surprisingly expensive, depending on where, when, and how you travel.
This guide breaks down real travel costs in Greece for American visitors, using practical examples, daily budgets, and comparisons to other European destinations.
The Big Picture: Is Greece Expensive Compared to the US?
For most Americans, Greece feels cheaper than major US cities, especially when it comes to food, public transport, and cultural experiences.
However, Greece is not uniformly cheap. Popular islands during peak summer can rival — or exceed — prices in Italy or France.
Think of Greece like this:
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Islands + high season = expensive
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Mainland + shoulder season = excellent value
Accommodation Costs in Greece
Budget & Mid-Range Hotels
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Budget hotels / guesthouses: €60–100 ($65–110) per night
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Mid-range hotels: €120–180 ($130–195)
In mainland towns, prices are often 30–40% lower than on famous islands.Luxury Hotels & Resorts
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Luxury island hotels: €300–600+ ($325–650+)
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Boutique mainland hotels: €180–300 ($195–325)
💡 Comparison: Luxury in Greece is often cheaper than Italy’s Amalfi Coast or southern France — outside July–August.
Airbnb & Long-Stay Costs
Greece is especially attractive for longer stays.
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Studio apartment (1 month):
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Athens / Thessaloniki: €700–1,100 ($760–1,200)
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Mainland towns: €500–800 ($540–870)
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Greek islands (summer): €1,200–2,000+ ($1,300–2,170)
Many Americans are surprised by how affordable month-long stays can be outside peak season.
Food Costs: One of Greece’s Best Values
Eating Out
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Gyros or souvlaki: €3–4 ($3.25–4.35)
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Casual taverna meal: €12–18 ($13–20)
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Seafood / upscale dining: €25–40 ($27–43)
In most of Greece, tipping is optional, not expected.
Groceries
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Weekly groceries (1 person): €35–50 ($38–55)
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Fresh produce is significantly cheaper than in the US.
🍽️ Reality check: Greece offers some of the best food-to-price value in Europe.
Transportation Costs
Public Transport
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City bus / metro: €1.20–1.40 ($1.30–1.50)
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Intercity buses (KTEL): €10–30 ($11–33)
Car Rental
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Economy car: €35–60/day ($38–65)
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Fuel: cheaper than much of Western Europe
Ferries (Big Cost Variable)
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Short island routes: €20–40 ($22–44)
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Long or fast ferries: €60–100+ ($65–110+)
🚢 Ferries are often the single biggest expense for island-hopping trips.
Sightseeing & Activities
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Archaeological sites: €8–20 ($9–22)
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Museums: €5–15 ($5–16)
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Hiking, beaches, villages: free
Many historic sites offer free or discounted entry on specific days.
Daily Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Budget Traveler
€40–60 ($43–65)
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Guesthouse or hostel
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Street food & bakeries
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Public transport
Mid-Range Traveler (Most Americans)
€80–130 ($87–140)
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Comfortable hotel
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Tavernas & cafés
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Occasional car rental
Comfortable / Premium
€180+ ($195+)
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Boutique hotels
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Wine & dining experiences
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Guided tours
Greece vs Italy & Spain (Cost Comparison)
| Category | Greece | Italy | Spain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | ✅ Cheaper | ❌ More expensive | ✅ Similar |
| Hotels | ⚖️ Varies | ❌ Higher | ✅ Lower |
| Transport | ✅ Cheaper | ❌ Higher | ✅ Similar |
| Attractions | ✅ Cheaper | ❌ Higher | ⚖️ Similar |
📌 Verdict: Greece offers better value than Italy, especially outside peak islands.
When Greece Gets Expensive (And How to Avoid It)
Greece becomes expensive when you:
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Visit Santorini or Mykonos in July–August
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Book ferries last minute
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Rely exclusively on taxis
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Travel only to headline destinations
To save money:
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Travel May–June or September–October
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Explore mainland Greece
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Stay longer in one place
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Eat where locals eat
Final Verdict: Is Greece Expensive for Americans?
No — not by default.
Greece is one of Europe’s best value destinations if you travel smart. Food, culture, and everyday life are affordable, while luxury is optional and localized.
For American travelers willing to go beyond the most famous islands, Greece delivers exceptional value, depth, and quality — often at prices far below what you’d expect.
