20 Greek Phrases You Need to Learn Before Your Trip to Greece!

Are you traveling to Greece soon and want to learn some basic Greek phrases for getting around? Well, this list is the perfect place to start! These 20 Greek phrases will help you navigate the beautiful country of Greece whether you’re taking in the history of Athens or island hopping around for a summer vacation. You’ll be able to greet the Greek natives, ordering delicious gyros, and ask for help with directions!

Speaking from experience, learning some basic phrases of the country you’re visiting language is also an important thing to do. Not only does it show some respect for the language and allows you to communicate at a basic level without expecting everyone to know English (or your native language), but it’s also a fun way to learn a little bit about the culture and where the language comes from.

Before traveling to Greece, check out some of my travel guides for some top Greek cities to visit!

1. Γειά σας / Αντίο (Hello/Goodbye)

Pronunciation: ya sas / an-tee-o
“Γειά σας” is the go-to greeting in Greek for saying hello during the day, while “Αντίο” is used to say goodbye. For casual situations, you can also use “Γεια” (Hi/Bye).

2. Ευχαριστώ (Thank you)

Pronunciation: ef-ha-ree-sto
Gratitude goes a long way in Greece, and “Ευχαριστώ” is one of the most essential words to know. Pair it with “Παρακαλώ” (You’re welcome) when someone thanks you back.

3. Παρακαλώ (Please)

Pronunciation: pa-ra-ka-lo
If you’re asking for something, make sure to add “Παρακαλώ” at the end of your request. It’s a simple way to be polite, and good manners are always appreciated.

4. Συγγνώμη (Excuse me)

Pronunciation: sig-no-mee
Use “Συγγνώμη” when you need to get someone’s attention, ask for directions, or politely apologize in crowded areas. It’s the equivalent of “Excuse me” or “I’m sorry.”

5. Πόσο κοστίζει; (How much does it cost?)

Pronunciation: po-so ko-stee-zee?
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or ordering food at a café, “Πόσο κοστίζει;” will help you inquire about prices.

6. Πού είναι…; (Where is…?)

Pronunciation: poo ee-ne…?
Use “Πού είναι” followed by the location you’re looking for. For example, “Πού είναι η τουαλέτα;” (Where is the bathroom?) or “Πού είναι ο σταθμός του τρένου;” (Where is the train station?).

7. Μιλάτε αγγλικά; (Do you speak English?)

Pronunciation: mee-la-te ag-li-ka?
While many Greeks in tourist areas speak English, it’s polite to ask first. “Μιλάτε αγγλικά;” shows that you’re making an effort to speak their language before switching to English.

8. Δεν καταλαβαίνω (I don’t understand)

Pronunciation: then ka-ta-la-ve-no
If you’re struggling to follow along in a conversation, simply say “Δεν καταλαβαίνω.” Greeks are usually happy to help you figure things out, often switching to slower Greek or English.

9. Μπορώ να έχω…; (Can I have…?)

Pronunciation: bo-ro na e-ho…?
This phrase is perfect for ordering at restaurants or cafés. For example, “Μπορώ να έχω έναν καφέ;” (Can I have a coffee?).

10. Θα ήθελα… (I would like…)

Pronunciation: tha ee-the-la…?
Another useful phrase when ordering food or drinks. “Θα ήθελα” is slightly more polite and formal than “Μπορώ να έχω.” For example, “Θα ήθελα μία μπαγκέτα” (I would like a baguette).

11. Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (The bill, please)

Pronunciation: ton lo-gar-ya-smo, pa-ra-ka-lo
When you’re ready to pay at a restaurant, use this phrase to ask for the check. In Greece, you often have to ask for the bill as it’s not automatically brought to you.

12. Νερό χωρίς αέριο / με αέριο (Still water / Sparkling water)

Pronunciation: ne-ro ho-rees a-e-rio / me a-e-rio
When ordering water, the waiter will likely ask if you want “χωρίς αέριο” (still) or “με αέριο” (sparkling). Knowing this ahead of time saves you from any confusion at the table.

13. Ένα τραπέζι για δύο, παρακαλώ (A table for two, please)

Pronunciation: e-na tra-pe-zi ya thio, pa-ra-ka-lo
When you arrive at a restaurant, simply say “Ένα τραπέζι για δύο, παρακαλώ” to request a table for two. Adjust the number depending on your group size.

14. Τι ώρα είναι; (What time is it?)

Pronunciation: tee o-ra ee-ne?
If you need to ask for the time, “Τι ώρα είναι;” is the way to do it. It’s a handy phrase when navigating train schedules or planning your day.

15. Είναι νόστιμο! (It’s delicious!)

Pronunciation: ee-ne nos-tee-mo!
Complimenting the food is always a good idea in Greece, where culinary pride runs deep. Use “Είναι νόστιμο!” to express your satisfaction after a great meal.

16. Μπορείτε να με βοηθήσετε; (Can you help me?)

Pronunciation: bo-ree-te na me voi-thee-se-te?
If you’re lost or need assistance, “Μπορείτε να με βοηθήσετε;” is the polite way to ask for help. Greeks are generally friendly and willing to assist, especially if you’re making an effort to speak the language.

17. Χρειάζομαι… (I need…)

Pronunciation: hree-a-zo-me…
Use “Χρειάζομαι” when you need something specific, such as “Χρειάζομαι ένα ταξί” (I need a taxi) or “Χρειάζομαι έναν γιατρό” (I need a doctor).

18. Ψάχνω για… (I’m looking for…)

Pronunciation: psa-hno ya…?
If you’re searching for something, such as a landmark or store, use “Ψάχνω για.” For example, “Ψάχνω για την Ακρόπολη” (I’m looking for the Acropolis).

19. Εντάξει (Okay/Alright)

Pronunciation: en-da-xee
“Εντάξει” is a versatile phrase used to express agreement or acknowledgment. It’s similar to saying “Okay” or “That’s fine.”

20. Αντίο (Goodbye)

Pronunciation: an-tee-o
When leaving a more formal setting, “Αντίο” is the polite way to say goodbye. For casual interactions, you can also use “Γεια.”

Enjoy your trip to Greece and Ευχαριστώ (thank you pronounced “ef-ha-ree-sto”) for checking out this post on 20 helpful Greek phrases to learn before your upcoming trip to Greece!