The Euro, which the Greeks refer to as 'evro' is the official currency used in Santorini and across Greece.
Understanding how to manage your finances while in Santorini can greatly enhance your travel experience, enabling you to fully enjoy all that this beautiful destination has to offer without any financial concerns.
Banks
There are plenty of banks around the island, however, most of them are located in major towns like Fira and Oia. Common banks include the National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, and Piraeus Bank. You will discover a variety of services offered by these banks such as withdrawals, deposits, currency exchange, and assistance with banking needs in English as well. Be cautious, banks typically operate Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, but hours can vary, so it’s best to check locally.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available throughout Santorini, particularly in towns such as Fira, Oia, and Kamari, and are commonly situated near banks, shopping areas, and popular tourist sites. Most ATMs accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard. To avoid any issues with card usage, it is advisable to notify your bank before traveling. Many ATMs impose withdrawal limits, which can vary depending on the bank and card type, so plan accordingly. Be aware that some ATMs charge fees for international transactions, and ATMs in Greece dispense only Euros. Exchange rates are determined by your home bank and may include additional conversion fees.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available at both banks and dedicated exchange offices. Exchange rates can vary significantly between these institutions, so it is advisable to compare rates before proceeding. While banks generally offer competitive rates, they may also charge a fee for their services. In smaller villages or remote areas, it can be difficult to find ATMs or card-accepting businesses, so carrying some cash for small purchases is practical.
Important Tips
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Wherever you choose to go to manage your finances, rest assured that an employee will be more than happy to assist you!
- Be aware of potential fees associated with using ATMs, especially those that are not affiliated with your bank.
- If possible, exchange some currency before arriving in Greece to cover initial expenses like transportation.
- Transactions in other currencies are usually not accepted.
- Major credit cards are accepted at most Santorinian hotels, restaurants, and shops.
- If your bank has a mobile app, it can be a useful tool for managing your finances on the go, keeping track of transactions, checking balances, and monitoring exchange rates.
- Prepaid travel cards in Euros can help you budget, and avoid bank fees, and often come with the security of a PIN. Some cards also offer competitive exchange rates, which can make them a good option if you’re planning to carry larger amounts.
- Try to use up any cash in Euros before leaving or exchange it at a bank, as some airports or currency exchange desks offer less favorable rates when exchanging smaller amounts back to your home currency.
- Extra Tip: Be cautious with American Express cards, as many restaurants and shops may not accept them due to higher transaction fees.
