How Does ATMs & Cash Work in Greece?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Europe
1The Quick Answer
Avoid Euronet ATMs due to high fees — stick to bank ATMs such as Alpha Bank, Piraeus, or National Bank of Greece.
2What You Need to Know
Greece uses the euro and cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and most restaurants in larger towns and cities. However, smaller villages, island mini-markets, and some smaller tavernas are cash-only. Euronet ATMs (branded orange and white) charge very high conversion fees and fixed charges — always use bank-branded ATMs. Capital controls imposed during the 2015 financial crisis have largely been lifted. Wise and Revolut cards with fee-free withdrawals work well at bank ATMs.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Withdraw cash from Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, Eurobank, or National Bank ATMs — they charge lower fees than Euronet machines.
- 2Always decline the ATM's offer to convert to your home currency (DCC) — choose to be charged in euros for a better rate.
- 3Carry some cash when island-hopping as smaller island shops, beach bars, and ferry kiosks often do not accept cards.
Important Warning
Euronet ATMs are found at high-traffic tourist locations across Greece and apply extremely high fees — they are best avoided entirely.
How does this compare?
ATMs & Cash rules in nearby and similar countries:
Germany is more cash-dependent than most Western European countries — always carry euros as many restaurants and smaller shops are cash-only.
UK ATMs are widespread and free at supermarkets and post offices; contactless payments up to £100 are the norm but some small venues still require cash.
Cards are widely accepted across France, but some traditional markets and brasseries prefer cash — use Crédit Agricole, BNP Paribas, or Société Générale ATMs and always decline dynamic currency conversion.
Traveling to Greece?
You might also need:
More About Greece
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — 5–10% for good service is the norm.
Updated 2025-06
Athens has an excellent metro, and ferries are the main way to travel between the islands.
Updated 2025-06
EU residents can use their EHIC card for public healthcare; all visitors should carry travel insurance, especially on the islands.
Updated 2025-06
Drug laws are strict, removing archaeological artifacts is a serious criminal offense, and nudity is illegal on non-designated beaches.
Updated 2025-06
Dial 112 for all emergencies (EU standard), 100 for police, 166 for ambulance, and 1572 for coast guard sea emergencies.
Updated 2025-06
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting Orthodox churches and monasteries; there is no strict national dress code elsewhere.
Updated 2025-06
💳 See ATMs & Cash rules in all countries
Compare all countries →