Essential Greek Phrases Every Tourist Should Know!

Learn the basics from “The Greek Online School”.

Are you planning a trip to Greece? While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Greek phrases can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re ordering food, asking for directions, or greeting locals, knowing a bit of Greek will enhance your experience and show respect for the culture.

In this guide, The Greek Online School covers the most useful Greek phrases for tourists, including greetings, directions, restaurant phrases, and emergency expressions. Bookmark this page or save these phrases for your next Greek adventure!

Basic Greek Greetings and Politeness

Politeness is key in Greek culture, and a simple greeting can go a long way in making a good impression.

• Hello – Γεια σας (Yia sas) [formal] / Γεια σου (Yia sou) [informal]
• Good morning – Καλημέρα (Kaliméra)
• Good afternoon/evening – Καλησπέρα (Kalispéra)
• Good night – Καληνύχτα (Kaliníhta)
• Goodbye – Αντίο (Adío) / Τα λέμε (Ta léme – See you)
• Please – Παρακαλώ (Parakaló)
• Thank you – Ευχαριστώ (Efharistó)
• You’re welcome – Παρακαλώ (Parakaló) / Τίποτα (Típota – It’s nothing)
• Excuse me / Sorry – Συγγνώμη (Signómi)

Pro Tip: Use “Efharistó” (Thank you) often—it’s a great way to show appreciation!

Greek Phrases for Asking Directions

Exploring Greece’s beautiful cities, islands, and historical sites? These travel phrases will help you find your way:

• Where is…? – Πού είναι…; (Poú íne…?)
• How do I get to…? – Πώς μπορώ να πάω στο…; (Pós boró na páo sto…?)
• Left / Right / Straight – Αριστερά (Aristerá) / Δεξιά (Dexiá) / Ευθεία (Efthía)
• Near / Far – Κοντά (Kondá) / Μακριά (Makriá)

Example: If you’re looking for the Acropolis, you can ask: «Πού είναι η Ακρόπολη;» (Poú íne i Akrópoli?).

Essential Greek Phrases for Restaurants & Cafés

Greece is a food lover’s paradise! Use these phrases when dining out:

• I would like… – Θα ήθελα… (Tha íthela…)
• The bill, please – Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (Ton logariasmó, parakaló)
• Can I see the menu? – Μπορώ να δω το μενού; (Boró na do to menóu?)
• Cheers! – Στην υγειά σας! (Stin ygeiá sas!)

️ Tip: Tipping isn’t mandatory in Greece, but it’s always appreciated!

Greek Shopping & Money Phrases

Shopping for souvenirs or exploring Greek markets? These phrases will be useful:

• How much does this cost? – Πόσο κάνει αυτό; (Póso káni aftó?)
• Do you accept credit cards? – Δέχεστε πιστωτικές κάρτες; (Déheste pistotikés kártes?)
• Can I have a receipt? – Μπορώ να έχω απόδειξη; (Boró na ého apódixi?)

Emergency Phrases in Greek

Hopefully, you won’t need these, but it’s always good to be prepared:

• Help! – Βοήθεια! (Voíthia!)
• I need a doctor – Χρειάζομαι γιατρό (Chriázome yatró)
• Call the police – Καλέστε την αστυνομία (Kaléste tin astinomía)
• I am lost – Έχω χαθεί (Ého chathí)

Travel Safety Tip: Save the number for Greek emergency services (112) in your phone.

Learn Greek Online with Expert Tutors

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the Greek language, The Greek Online School offers a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced tutors. This online platform provides interactive and personalized Greek lessons for all levels, making it ideal for tourists, expats, or anyone passionate about Greek culture. Whether you want to master essential travel phrases or become fluent in Greek, their courses can help you achieve your language goals from the comfort of your home. Check them out to enhance your Greek skills before your trip!

Final Thoughts: Speak Greek & Enjoy Your Trip!

Greeks appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. Don’t worry about perfect pronunciation—your effort will be met with smiles and warm hospitality.

With these useful Greek travel phrases, you’re ready to explore Greece with confidence!

Καλό ταξίδι! (Kaló taxídi!) – Have a great trip!