So, you’ve landed in Greece. You’re ready for feta overload, sunsets that look Photoshopped and possibly befriending a stray cat or two. But before you dive into the baklava, let’s tackle something essential: talking like you belong. You don’t need to be fluent in Greek to win hearts here, just a few Greek phrases. They’re short, sweet and sound even better when delivered with your best effort (and a smile). Ready? Let’s go!
1. Yassou (Γειά σου)
👋 Hello / Hi
Pronunciation: YAH-soo
Use it casually with friends, strangers, shopkeepers, even the waiter bringing your souvlaki. It’s the Swiss Army knife of greetings.
2. Kalimera (Καλημέρα)
🌞 Good morning
Pronunciation: kah-lee-MEHR-ah
Say this until about lunchtime. Beyond that, you’ll sound like you’ve just woken up from a siesta that lasted 18 hours.
3. Kalispera (Καλησπέρα)
🌆 Good evening
Pronunciation: kah-lee-SPARE-ah
Perfect for dinners, sunsets and impressing locals when you roll into a taverna at 9pm.
4. Efharistó (Ευχαριστώ)
🙏 Thank you
Pronunciation: eff-hah-ree-STOH
Use it everywhere, all the time. Bonus: it sounds lovely rolling off the tongue and usually earns you a warm smile.
5. Parakaló (Παρακαλώ)
🤲 Please / You’re welcome
Pronunciation: pah-rah-kah-LOH
This one does double duty. Ask politely for your frappe, then graciously respond when they thank you for your order.
6. Signómi (Συγγνώμη)
🙇 Excuse me / Sorry
Pronunciation: see-GHNO-mee
Ideal for squeezing past people in a busy market or apologising when you almost knock over a display of olives.
7. Posó kostízi? (Πόσο κοστίζει;)
💶 How much does it cost?
Pronunciation: POH-soh koh-STEE-zee?
A phrase that will save you from panic-buying souvenirs that turn out to be three times your budget.
8. To logariasmó, parakaló (Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ)
💳 The bill, please
Pronunciation: toh loh-ghah-ree-az-MOH pah-rah-kah-LOH
Use this when you’re ready to waddle out of the taverna after your fifth plate of mezze.
9. Né (Ναι)
👍 Yes
Pronunciation: neh
Sounds like “no” in English, but it actually means yes. Confusing at first, but soon you’ll be nodding and saying “neh” like a pro.
10. Óchi (Όχι)
👎 No
Pronunciation: OH-hee
Use sparingly because, let’s face it, saying no to more olives feels like a crime against humanity.
✨ Final Thoughts:
With these ten phrases in your pocket, you won’t just survive Greece, you’ll thrive. Locals love it when visitors try a bit of Greek phrases, even if you sound like a GCSE language exam gone slightly wrong. Say it with confidence, toss in a smile and you’ll earn goodwill, extra olives and maybe even a discount on that fridge magnet you definitely don’t need but will buy anyway.
If you’re looking for Greek travel phrase books, I have included a link to Amazon* to help you find a few great options.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, many people in tourist areas of Greece speak English, but learning a few Greek phrases can make conversations smoother and more respectful.
Simple phrases such as “hello”, “thank you”, and “how much does this cost?” are among the most useful for daily travel situations.
Yes, locals in Greece often appreciate visitors who make an effort to use basic Greek phrases, even if pronunciation is not perfect.
Discover more Greece travel tips:
- Save money and travel more efficiently with these practical travel hacks for exploring Greece like a seasoned traveller.
- Avoid common cultural mistakes by learning the important things tourists should not do while visiting Greece.
- Add excitement to your holiday with these thrilling adventure activities to experience in Santorini.
*This article contains affiliate link. If you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
