Money and Tipping in Athens – Cards, Cash & Local Customs

Money and tipping in Athens – what to know

Greece uses the euro, and in Athens money matters are mostly simple: cards are accepted almost everywhere and ATMs are on every corner. Still, a few local habits are worth knowing before you land – when you will still want cash, how to avoid unnecessary fees, and what is customary when it comes to tipping. Greeks don't expect visitors to master complicated rules, but a small, thoughtful tip is always warmly received. This guide covers what you really need to know, without exact amounts – prices and fees change, so check the details with your own bank.

Card or cash?

Most restaurants, shops, hotels and taxis in Athens take cards, and paying by phone is very common. Businesses are generally required to accept card payments, but it is still wise to carry a little cash: for a kiosk, a market stall, a small island taverna, paid restrooms or tips. Before you travel, ask your card provider about foreign transaction fees and whether you have a card that suits travel abroad – over a whole holiday, the difference can add up.

ATMs – avoiding the fees

ATMs are everywhere, but they are not all equal. Independent machines in tourist areas sometimes charge high fees, so a bank's own ATM is usually the better choice. When the machine offers to convert the amount into your home currency, decline and choose to be charged in euros – that conversion almost always comes at a worse rate. Withdraw sensible amounts a few times rather than carrying a lot of cash, and keep a backup card separate from your wallet. Use ATMs inside a branch or in a well-lit spot, and cover the keypad as you enter your PIN.

Tipping at tavernas and cafés

In Greece, tipping in restaurants isn't compulsory and service is not always added to the bill, but it is customary and appreciated. At a café or for a light meal, people simply round up or leave a few coins on the table. For dinner at a taverna with good service, leaving around 5-10% is common, and more if the evening was special. Cash tips are best, as they go straight to your server – even if you paid by card, you can leave the tip on the table. On the taverna nights Yana arranges, everything is coordinated in advance, so all that's left is to enjoy.

Tipping taxis, hotels and guides

Big tips aren't expected in taxis – rounding up is the norm, plus a little extra if the driver helped with heavy luggage. In hotels, you might leave something small for housekeeping at the end of your stay, or for a porter who carried your bags. On guided tours, cruises and day trips, a tip for the guide or crew is a kind gesture when you enjoyed yourself, but it is entirely your call. The simple rule: a tip is a thank-you for good service, not an obligation, and nobody will mind if you just round up.

Bills, receipts and what to check

In Greece you usually ask for the bill – your server won't bring it until you do, because nobody wants to rush you. Check the menu for a cover charge for bread or water, and ask in advance about dishes priced by weight, such as fresh fish. Businesses should issue a receipt, and you are welcome to ask for one. At markets and stalls a little bargaining is sometimes possible, but in regular shops the price is the price. If anything is unclear, ask politely – Greeks are usually happy to explain.

Small tips for a stress-free trip

Keep your money in more than one place rather than all in one wallet, and leave a backup card at the hotel. Install your bank's app, switch on transaction alerts and track spending as you go. Small coins come in handy for restrooms, kiosks and tips, so don't rush to swap them all for large notes. And if you'd rather not deal with the details, you can arrange transfers, tours and evenings with Yana in advance – you know what's waiting for you and spend less time calculating on the go.

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