Greece Cost of Travel – What is a typical Backpacker Budget?

Greece - Travel costs in Thessaoliniki

On this page you will find our estimated Greece cost of travel. Read on for suggested shoestring and more comfortable backpacking budgets in this beautiful and historic corner of Europe. We also have info on the local currency and typical prices from Athens to the islands.


cost of travel in Greece
Map of Greece, can be re-used by anyone

Greece Cost of Travel in 2023


Shoestring Backpacker Budget

  • €45/day

As far as the Mediterranean goes, Greece offers some of the best value not to mention most appealing destinations. It was the European country hit hardest by the economic crisis in the late 2000’s and those problems spilled over for much of the next decade. It had a mixed effect on the cost of travel in Greece with accommodation costs largely tumbling, however groceries and some everyday items got very expensive and those factors are still relevant as we head into the mid 2020’s.

If you come here as part of a longer stint backpacking in the Balkans, particularly if you’re arriving from close neighbours Albania or Macedonia, you will notice a pretty sharp increase in prices but that’s only relative. Prices are more in line with the cost of travel in Croatia while travellers heading here from Italy, France, Germany or Spain for example, should find Greece pretty good value relative to those places.

Hostels are plentiful and accommodation in general is very affordable by European standards with some great value options on Airbnb. However during the busier summer months, prices can go up and beds can sell out on the islands and coastal destinations.

The food is fresh and one of the highlights of travel in Greece, though to stick to our suggested Greece backpacking budget of 45 Euros per day, you’ll need to do some self-catering or settle for cheaper snacks or sandwiches at lunch-time.

Travel Costs in Greece - Acropolis
Like many travel destinations in Greece, the Acropolis is cheaper to visit during the winter. This is something to consider with most Europe backpacking budgets but is especially prevalent here.

More Comfortable Greece Backpacking Budget

  • €60/day

If you’re planning on visiting Greece and particularly the more popular (and expensive) islands like Santorini or Mykonos during the peak summer months then you might want to increase your budget by at least 15 Euros. This will cover the likely increase in the cost of accommodation and transport due to the big increase in visitors at that time. You may also need to book well in advance if you’re heading to the most popular beach resorts in summer.

Travelling around Greece is generally pretty good value and with some advanced planning you can travel the length of the mainland or fly to one of the islands for under 20 Euros, although that is certainly harder in July or August. There are also potentially cost effective options for rail passes which also cover the extensive ferry network if you’re planning a longer backpacking trip around Greece and its many islands.

During quieter times of year, adding 15 Euros to your budget would allow you to eat out twice a day or it could be put towards the cost of visiting some of the more remote islands. History lovers could also use it to explore more of the best ancient places in Greece to visit, some of which are well away from the main cities and tourist resorts.

How much do things cost in Greece?

Approximate Price
Train from Athens to Thessaloniki (5-6 hours)€45
Flight from Athens to Crete (1 hour)€25-60 + Baggage Fees
Meal in an affordable local restaurant€8-14
Local beer in bar/restaurant€3-5
Dorm bed in a hostelFrom €12/night
Budget private roomFrom €20/night
Entrance to Acropolis in Athens €20 (drops to €10 during the winter – 1st November to 31st March)
Travel insurance for backpacking GreeceGet a quote from Heymondo in under a minute!

When compared to the cost of travel in Italy or the cost of travel in Germany, the big savings in Greece come in terms of accommodation. Do some digging on Airbnb and you can often find private rooms for as little as €20/night and whole apartments aren’t much more expensive which can be a fantastic option for anyone travelling with a partner or friends.


Money – Euros

£1 = €1.13

US$1 = €0.93

All exchange rates are correct as of March 2023. Euros are the only currency you will need in Greece. Contactless payments via debit/credit card are widely accepted.


These estimates for the cost of travel in Greece were last updated in March 2023.


Greece Cost of Travel – What is a typical Backpacker Budget?

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