What Currency Does Greece Use?

Greece uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency. UK travellers must pay in euros—pounds are not accepted.

What Currency Does Greece Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you're planning a holiday to Greece—whether it’s island-hopping in the Cyclades or sightseeing in Athens—you’ll want to know what currency to bring. Greece is a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, meaning it uses the euro as its official currency. This guide explains how the currency works in Greece, how to pay safely, and what UK travellers should keep in mind when spending abroad.

What Is the Official Currency of Greece?

The official currency of Greece is the euro (EUR).

  • Currency name: Euro

  • Currency symbol: €

  • ISO code: EUR

  • Subunit: 1 euro = 100 cents

The euro replaced the Greek drachma in 2002 as part of Greece's integration into the Eurozone.

Where Is the Euro Used in Greece?

Everywhere. The euro is used across:

  • Mainland Greece

  • All Greek islands (e.g. Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Corfu)

  • Airports, ferries, cafés, hotels, and local markets

You’ll see prices displayed in EUR, and all card payments, bank withdrawals, and purchases are settled in euros.

How Currency Works in Practice

  • UK Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards are widely accepted

  • Contactless, chip-and-PIN, and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are commonly used

  • Cash is still preferred in rural areas, taxis, and small shops

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in towns and tourist zones

  • Some remote islands may have fewer card machines—carry some cash just in case

Tips for UK Travellers

  • Use a travel card like Monzo, Starling, Chase or Wise to avoid foreign transaction fees

  • Withdraw euros from trusted ATMs (avoid airport and hotel kiosks for the best rate)

  • Always choose to pay in euros, not GBP, when offered at a card terminal (to avoid poor conversion rates)

  • Carry some cash for tipping, taxis, and small purchases on islands or in villages

FAQs

Can I use pounds in Greece?
No. British pounds are not accepted in shops, restaurants or transport systems. Always pay in euros.

Is it expensive in Greece?
Compared to other Eurozone destinations, Greece is generally affordable, especially for food and accommodation.

Do I need cash in Greece?
Yes. While cards are widely accepted in cities and resorts, cash is useful or even essential in rural areas or smaller towns.