Is Backpacking in Greece Affordable? Cost Breakdown for 2024

Dreaming of crystal-clear beaches, whitewashed villages, and ancient ruins, but worried about your wallet? Good news—backpacking in Greece is totally doable on a budget! Greece might have a reputation for luxury islands and fancy yachts, but it’s also a haven for budget travelers. With a bit of planning, you can experience its beauty without breaking the bank.

Let’s dive into the real costs, the cheapest ways to explore, and some insider tips to keep your budget for Greece in check!

The Basics: Greece Travel Prices in 2024

Before you book that flight, you need to know the average costs for backpacking in Greece. While prices can vary depending on the season and where you’re heading, here’s a rough idea:

1. Accommodation:
   Dorm bed in a hostel: €15-25
   Budget hotel: €30-50 per night
   Airbnb or private rooms: €25-40

2. Food and Drinks:
   Gyros or street food: €2.50-5
   Cheap meal at a local taverna: €8-12
   Coffee: €2-4
   Beer: €3-5

3. Transportation:
   Ferries between islands: €20-40 (depending on the route)
   Public buses: €2-5 per ride
   Rental scooter/car: €15-50 per day

4. Activities:
   Museum entry: €6-12
   Guided tours: €20-50
   Free activities: Beaches, hiking trails, and exploring local villages!

On average, €40-60 a day is a solid budget for Greece if you’re staying in hostels, eating local, and using public transport.

Cheapest Way to Visit Greece: Key Tips

1. Travel in the Shoulder Season
   High season (July-August) is expensive, and everything is crowded. Instead, go in May-June or September-October. The weather is still amazing, but Greece travel prices are much lower.

2. Stick to the Mainland and Budget Islands
   The famous islands like Santorini and Mykonos are pricey. Explore budget-friendly gems like Naxos, Paros, Syros, or Kefalonia.

3. Eat Where Locals Eat
   Skip fancy restaurants aimed at tourists and grab food at local bakeries or small tavernas. Bonus: Greek street food like souvlaki and spanakopita is both cheap and delicious.

4. Use Public Transport
   Buses and ferries are way cheaper than taxis. If you’re island-hopping, look for slow ferries, which are less expensive than the high-speed ones.

Affordable Places to Stay in Greece

Finding cheap accommodation is key to staying on budget. Here are a few options:

1. Athens Backpackers (Athens)
   Located near the Acropolis, this hostel is perfect for travelers. Prices start at €18 for dorm beds, and they even offer free walking tours!

2. Youth Hostel Plakias (Crete)
   A chilled-out spot on Crete’s southern coast. Dorm beds start at €15, and it’s close to amazing beaches and hiking trails.

3. Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
   Yes, you can stay in Santorini on a budget! This hostel offers dorm beds for €20-25, and it’s just a short walk from Fira.

4. To Spiti Tou Pappou (Nafplio)
   A cozy, family-run guesthouse in a charming seaside town. Rooms start at €25, and it’s a great base to explore the Peloponnese.

Activities to Do in Greece on a Budget

Greece is a playground for history buffs, nature lovers, and beach bums alike. And the best part? Many of these activities cost next to nothing. Here’s a deeper dive into the best budget-friendly things to do:

1. Hiking Mount Olympus
   Ready to channel your inner adventurer? Mount Olympus isn’t just Greece’s tallest peak—it’s also tied to Greek mythology as the home of the gods. Hiking the trails is free, but plan for a night at a basic mountain refuge (around €15). If you don’t want to climb the peak, there are plenty of easier trails for stunning views.

2. Explore Athens’ Ancient Ruins
   The Acropolis is a must-see (entry is €20 or €10 in the off-season), but don’t miss other spots like the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Hephaestus, and Kerameikos Cemetery. Pro tip: Get a €30 combo ticket to cover multiple sites!

3. Island-Hopping on a Budget
   Ferries can get pricey, but slow ferries cost a lot less and offer breathtaking views. Budget islands like Syros, Naxos, or Paros are perfect for exploring beaches, charming villages, and hidden gems without the Santorini price tag.

4. Enjoy Free Beaches
   Greece is home to some of the world’s best beaches. Whether you’re at Navagio Beach (Zakynthos), Balos Lagoon (Crete), or Sarakiniko (Milos), you’ll find paradise without an entry fee.

5. Visit Meteora
   These incredible monasteries perched on towering rock formations are breathtaking. Entry costs just €3 per monastery, and you can hike the trails connecting them for free.

6. Dive into Local Markets
   Wander through Athens’ Monastiraki Flea Market or Chania Market in Crete. You’ll soak up local culture while hunting for unique souvenirs at bargain prices.

7. Explore Free Museums
   Many museums, like the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, offer free entry on specific days (e.g., the first Sunday of the month in the off-season). Check ahead to save.

Local Food in Greece You Must Try

Greek food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience! From hearty meals to cheap street food, here’s what to look for:

1. Souvlaki and Gyros
   These iconic dishes are your budget-friendly saviors. For just €2.50-3, you get grilled meat, veggies, and tzatziki wrapped in warm pita.

2. Moussaka
   A rich, baked dish with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. Expect to pay €8-10 at a taverna.

3. Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
   Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this flaky pastry stuffed with spinach and feta cheese costs just €2-3 at bakeries.

4. Seafood
   Greece’s coastal regions serve up incredible, fresh seafood. Look for daily specials like grilled octopus or calamari at small tavernas for €10-15.

5. Baklava
   A sweet treat made of layers of filo pastry, honey, and nuts. You can find this classic dessert for €2-4 at bakeries.

6. Frappe (Iced Coffee)
   The unofficial drink of Greece! A frappe costs €2-4 and is perfect for sipping while enjoying the views.

Cultural Insights to Enhance Your Trip

Greece is more than its stunning scenery and delicious food—it’s a country rich in culture, history, and traditions. Here are a few things to know:

1. Hospitality (Philoxenia)
   Greeks are famous for their warm hospitality. It’s common for locals to go out of their way to help travelers, and you might even be offered a free drink or dessert at a taverna.

2. Traditional Music and Dance
   Experience live bouzouki music or traditional Greek dances like the syrtaki at a local festival or taverna. Many village festivals (panigyria) offer free entry and a lively atmosphere.

3. Religious Influence
   Greece is deeply connected to its Orthodox Christian traditions. Churches and monasteries are scattered across the country, and many are open to visitors. Dress modestly when visiting.

4. Local Festivals
   Time your visit with a local festival for an unforgettable cultural experience. For example, Carnival in February-March is a vibrant mix of costumes, parades, and parties.

5. Siesta Culture
   Don’t be surprised if shops close in the afternoon, especially in smaller towns. Many Greeks take a siesta from around 2-5 PM, so plan accordingly.

Sample Budget for Greece (7 Days)

Here’s how a week-long trip could look if you’re backpacking Greece:

Expense	Daily Cost (€)	7-Day Total (€)
Accommodation	20	140
Food (street/local eats)	15	105
Transportation	10	70
Activities	10	70
Total	55/day	385

With €400-450, you can have an amazing week exploring Greece without missing out!

FAQs About Backpacking in Greece

1. How much does it cost to backpack in Greece for two weeks?
On average, you’ll need around €500-700 for two weeks, depending on your travel style. This includes hostels, local food, and transportation.

2. What is the cheapest time to visit Greece?
The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer lower prices, fewer crowds, and great weather.

3. Can I travel Greece on €30 a day?
It’s possible if you’re super strict—think hostel dorms, street food, and mostly free activities. But for a more comfortable experience, aim for €40-60/day.

4. Which Greek islands are best for budget travelers?
Naxos, Paros, Syros, and Crete are budget-friendly compared to Santorini or Mykonos.

5. Do I need a car to explore Greece?
Not necessarily. Public buses and ferries are reliable and affordable. However, renting a scooter or car can be helpful in rural areas or less-connected islands.

6. Are hostels in Greece safe?
Yes! Most hostels in Greece are clean, safe, and geared towards budget travelers. Always read reviews before booking.

7. Is food in Greece expensive?
Not at all! Street food like gyros costs as little as €2.50, and a filling meal at a taverna is around €10.

8. How can I save money on transportation?
Use slow ferries instead of high-speed ones, take public buses, and walk whenever possible. Booking ferry tickets in advance can also save money.

9. Is it worth visiting Greece if I’m on a tight budget?
Absolutely! Greece offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious food at a fraction of the cost of other European destinations.

10. Are there free things to do in Greece?
Yes! Hiking, beaches, exploring villages, and even some museums on certain days are free. Just being in Greece is an experience in itself.

Final Thoughts

Backpacking in Greece is not only affordable but also incredibly rewarding. With a mix of budget-friendly accommodations, cheap eats, and plenty of free or low-cost activities, Greece offers something for every traveler. Stick to the tips above, plan smart, and you’ll be soaking up the sun, history, and beauty of this amazing country without worrying about your bank balance.

So, pack your bags, grab your map, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!