Here’s how to explore Greece on a budget

With Greece being a popular destination, budget travelers may face stiff competition. However, by doing your research and following a few smart strategies, you can enjoy a fantastic visit without overspending. Just keep in mind that during peak summer months, finding good deals can be particularly challenging in Greece.

What’s the most affordable way to get to Greece?

From Europe

Flying is the best budget-friendly option for reaching Greece from Europe, with plenty of choices available. Budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair frequently offer low fares to Athens, along with traditional airlines such as Air France and Lufthansa. Greece’s own Aegean Airlines also provides economical flights to Athens from various European locations. Whether you’re flying to Athens or heading directly to an island, be sure to compare prices to uncover great deals.

Direct flights are available to islands with international airports like Crete, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Santorini. Most of these flights are offered by charter airlines and tend to be quite affordable. Many online travel booking platforms will list these options for you.

Keep in mind that if your flight to an island involves a layover in Athens, it’s often more economical to book a ticket to Athens and then purchase a separate flight to the islands. This strategy works best if you're only carrying hand luggage. If you have checked bags, you'll need to collect them in Athens and check them in again for your island flight.

Another option is to fly into Athens and then take a budget ferry from the port of Piraeus to the islands. Make sure to allow at least three hours for this transfer, as it involves a regular express bus ride from the airport. A more enjoyable plan is to spend some time in Athens, where you can marvel at the Parthenon and enjoy a night in Plaka before heading to your ferry.

From North America

The three major US airlines operate non-stop flights to Athens from their eastern hubs during the summer. These routes are in high demand and often fill up quickly, so if you want to snag a good deal, it's wise to book early. Otherwise, your most affordable option might involve connecting flights through one or more hubs. This is also true for flights coming from Canada.

From the rest of the world

If you’re traveling from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, or Oceania, most flights to Athens will require a connection in Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa. To find the best deals, start looking as soon as you have your travel dates and compare prices from multiple airlines.

May and October are ideal months for a visit

July and August see the highest travel volume in Greece, making it difficult to find bargains. Airfares, ferry rates, and hotel prices peak during this time. Many of the most affordable options book up quickly, leaving last-minute planners to face higher costs.

June and September may provide slightly lower prices compared to the peak summer months. These shoulder months are excellent for travel, with all ferries operational, businesses open, and pleasant weather. You might also discover better flight and accommodation deals than in July and August.

For experienced travelers to Greece, May and October stand out as prime visiting months. Everything is operational but with fewer crowds, and prices can drop by 25% or more. These months are also favorable for finding reasonable non-stop flight fares from the US to Athens.

Visiting Greece during the off-season, from November to April, can be rewarding, but it comes with several drawbacks. The weather tends to be chilly and rainy, making it unsuitable for beach vacations. Many establishments, particularly on the islands, close down, limiting accommodation options outside Athens. Flights and ferries to the islands run at a minimal frequency, and budget charter airlines often suspend their routes altogether. Instead of lowering prices to attract travelers, major airlines typically reduce their flights to Athens and reallocate their aircraft to warmer destinations.

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Accommodation deals vary based on the season and how early you make your reservations.

To ensure the best rates for your stay, it’s always wise to plan your trip well in advance.

During the peak summer months, prices soar. While you shouldn't expect to find a nice double room in a popular area for €50 ($58), booking early could allow you to secure a quality room for €150 ($173) instead of one for the same price—or more—that overlooks dumpsters in an alley.

During peak season, exploring package deals for Greece can be advantageous. Many booking sites and airlines provide various discounts when you book your entire trip through one provider. However, keep in mind that these package accommodations are typically at large resorts or generic holiday apartment complexes, which may not be located in the most charming areas of your destination. You’re unlikely to find that cozy little room with a view at an independent inn through these deals.

It's worth noting that the days of elderly women waiting at ferry ports to offer cheap spare rooms are long gone. Nowadays, everything can be found on booking platforms like booking.com, Airbnb, and Vrbo.

During shoulder season, prices tend to be lower, and accommodations are not booked up as rapidly—more reasons to consider traveling in May, June, September, and October.

From November to April, while prices decrease, so does availability, as many lodging options close entirely. Be aware that holiday apartments might lack heating, so double-check the amenities.

Decide on your inter-island travel method

Island-hopping is one of the true joys of exploring Greece. Relaxing on a ferry deck while passing stunning islands is a dream for many travelers. Ferry prices are generally stable, but you can cut costs with a few smart strategies:

• Always book in advance! Larger vessels frequently provide substantial discounts for early bookings compared to walk-up fares.

• Shop around for prices. On popular routes like Athens to Mykonos, multiple ferry companies operate in the summer, and prices can differ. Use online platforms like Ferryhopper to compare your options.

• Take the slow route. On routes with both traditional ferries and faster vessels, the slower boats are typically more affordable. A bonus of the slow ferries is their ample deck space, allowing you to truly savor the journey while enjoying the view. Many fast ferries lack outdoor space, forcing you to stay in uninspiring lounges during the trip.

• In the summer, there are also flights between the islands and more frequent airline service to and from Athens, but these flights are popular, making deals scarce. Be cautious during major Greek holidays, as locals will fill every available seat to return to their home islands.

Choose your mode of transport for exploring the mainland

Greek buses are affordable, modern, and fairly comfortable. Most villages offer some level of bus service, though the smallest ones may have limited options.

While the train network is not extensive, ticket prices are low where trains operate, and the seating is quite comfortable. The Athens-Thessaloniki route stands out, with rapid trains connecting the two cities in just over four hours—faster than by bus or car.

As in many places, rental car costs in Greece have surged. Having your own vehicle provides the ultimate flexibility, but it comes at a price. Discounts are rare, though you might find savings by bundling a rental with your flight and accommodation.

A smart way to save on car rentals is to only book vehicles for the days when you truly need the ease and flexibility to explore.

Consider your options for getting around the islands

On islands like Hydra, where motor vehicles are prohibited, your transportation options are straightforward and free: you walk. However, on most other islands, you'll need to weigh the costs of renting a car against the convenience of taking a bus. Popular islands offer summer buses to key destinations and beaches, so the strategy of renting a car only for specific days of exploration works well. Besides the major rental chains, many islands have small local companies, but don’t expect better rates from them during peak season.

Renting a scooter or motorbike from a local vendor is typically easy. Budget around €20 to €40 ($23 to $46) for this service. Just ensure that your rental includes a helmet, and be sure you know how to ride before renting one.

Steep hills, narrow roads, and challenging conditions—along with the sun and heat—make cycling more of a leisure activity than a practical way to navigate the area.

Cut down on entrance fees

Visiting museums, ruins, historic sites, and other attractions in Greece is generally affordable, as entrance fees are designed to be reasonable for locals. Don’t forget to check for discounts for students and individuals under 26 or over 60—like the 50% discount at the Acropolis in Athens, for example.

All beaches are free to access. While you can rent a pricey lounger, there will always be areas where you can lay down your towel and enjoy the beautiful water without cost.

Savor a delicious, budget-friendly meal

While waterfront restaurants or chic cafes on popular beaches might not offer budget meals, there are plenty of affordable dining options throughout Greece. Locals also seek reasonably priced meals, making it easy to find good food without tourist markups.

In popular areas, from the bustling streets of Athens to quaint island villages, venture just a couple of blocks away from the crowds and you’ll discover shops offering souvlaki (grilled meat) sandwiches in pita and other delightful Greek snacks. You don’t have to give in to the allure of pizza places or burger joints—though they’re plentiful—to enjoy a fresh and satisfying Greek meal for under €10 ($12).

Bakeries provide a variety of sandwiches and ready-made foods, and even the smallest supermarkets typically feature a deli stocked with meats, cheeses, and prepared items like tzatziki.

Enjoy affordable drinks

Supermarkets offer inexpensive cold beer and wine, allowing you to relax on the rocks and watch the sunset just like patrons at the nearby expensive taverna. However, be aware that spirits tend to be costly.

Daily Expenses

• Ferry ticket between islands: starting at €20 ($23)

• Hostel accommodation: €25-60 ($29-70)

• Standard room for two: €50-140 ($58-162)

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €100-300 ($116-347)

• Public transport fare: €1.20 ($1.30)

• Coffee: €2 ($2.30)

• Souvlaki sandwich: €4-6 ($4.60-7)

• Dinner for two: €40 and up ($46)

• Beer at a café: €3-6 ($0-7)

• Beach lounger rental: €5-10 ($5.80-12)