🏖️ 10 Basic Greek Phrases You Should Know Before Traveling to Greece

Planning a trip to Greece? 🇬🇷 Besides packing your sunscreen and swimsuit, make sure to bring a few Greek phrases with you! You don’t need to be fluent — just a few simple words can make your experience warmer, more authentic, and more fun!

1. Γεια σου / Γεια σας – Hello / Hi

• Can be used any time of day.

• “Γεια σου” (Ya sou) is informal; “Γεια σας” (Ya sas) is more polite or formal.

2. Καλημέρα / Καλησπέρα / Καληνύχτα – Good morning / Good evening / Good night

• Very useful for hotels, restaurants, and daily interactions.

3. Ευχαριστώ – Thank you

• Always appreciated. Use it generously!

4. Παρακαλώ – Please / You’re welcome

• Dual use: to ask for something politely or to respond to “thank you.”

5. Ναι / Όχι – Yes / No

• Careful! “Ναι” (Yes) sounds like “No” in English — easy to confuse!

6. Συγγνώμη – Sorry / Excuse me

• Useful if you bump into someone or want to get someone’s attention.

7. Μιλάτε αγγλικά; – Do you speak English?

• [Mee-LA-te an-GLEE-ka?] – Very helpful when you need assistance.

8. Πόσο κοστίζει; – How much does it cost?

• Perfect for shopping in local stores or markets.

9. Πού είναι…; – Where is…?

• E.g., “Πού είναι η τουαλέτα;” = Where is the bathroom?

10. Θα ήθελα… – I would like…

• E.g., “Θα ήθελα έναν καφέ, παρακαλώ.” = I’d like a coffee, please.

💡 Quick Tip:

Don’t be afraid to try speaking Greek, even if you make mistakes. Greeks really appreciate the effort and will often smile and help you out.