Can I use my credit card in Greece?

You can use credit cards in many places in Greece. You should be able to use them at most establishments, but be aware that foreign transaction fees can apply. There may also be some instances, like shopping from small vendors or getting a taxi, where cash is preferred.

What you’ll learn:

• Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece.

• Depending on your card, there may be useful benefits to using it on your trip, including travel-related protections and airport lounge access.

• Some fees may apply when using some credit cards abroad.

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Greece. It’s easy and convenient to use a credit card in Greece, especially in the more popular destinations.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, there are a few things to keep in mind when using your credit card.

• Chip-and-PIN cards are standard in Greece. Greek cards generally use chip-and-PIN technology. This is where cardholders authenticate their transactions with a personal identification number (PIN) at checkout. In the U.S., chip-and-signature cards are more common. You can check with your card issuer to see if they can assign a PIN if you want one, but you shouldn’t need one. Most payment terminals now accept both types of cards. 

• Some card issuers require notice of travel. Some card issuers still require you to provide a travel notice if you go overseas. Capital One no longer requires this. But it still recommends updating your contact information in case it needs to reach you about suspected fraud.

• You can go contactless. Digital wallets like Apple Pay® or Google Pay® are contactless and common payment methods in Greece.

You should be able to use a credit card for most purchases, but it may be a good idea to carry cash for smaller stores, taxis and emergencies. 

It’s common to use both cash and credit cards while traveling internationally. Most places in Greece will take credit cards, but there may be some situations where cash could come in handy.

Wherever you are, there are advantages to using a credit card over cash. But here are some ways you might benefit from bringing a credit card to Greece:

• Security: Credit cards can come with security features that can help you notice and prevent unauthorized use. For example, Capital One sends fraud alerts if it detects potential suspicious activity and lets you lock your card if it gets lost or stolen. 

• Rewards: If you have a rewards credit card, you could be earning rewards with each eligible purchase in Greece.

• Travel protections: Some credit cards provide benefits that are particularly useful for travelers. For example, eligible Capital One cardholders get travel protections like lost luggage reimbursement and perks like complimentary access to airport lounges.

• Digital account management: The ability to manage your accounts digitally could be even more helpful in Greece. The Capital One Mobile app can help you keep an eye on your spending while you’re away.

• Favorable exchange rate: Many credit cards will have a better currency exchange rate than if you exchange American cash for euros when you arrive.

• No foreign transaction fees: Some card issuers charge foreign transaction fees, which can be as high as 3% of each purchase. But Capital One doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

No matter what you have planned for your trip to Greece, your credit card should generally be able to cover it. Still, it might be a good idea to also have some euros handy in case some vendors only take cash.

Do you have the best credit card to suit your travel needs? You can compare Capital One travel credit cards to make sure you’re getting the most out of your card. And before you leave, check out these tips for using a card internationally.