20 Greek Words You Should Know for Your Trip to Greece

Intro – 20 Greek Words You Should Know for when Traveling to Greece

Knowing a few Greek words can make a trip to Greece feel more personal and more relaxed. Even simple expressions help break the ice, show respect, and make everyday interactions smoother. You will hear these words constantly in cafés, shops, hotels, taxis, and small villages. Locals often appreciate the effort, even if pronunciation is not perfect.

Greek is one of the oldest continuously used languages in Europe, and many everyday words still reflect that long history. If you enjoy learning how the language works beneath the surface, it is worth exploring how letters and sounds developed over time in the history of the Greek alphabet. For practical travel, though, these 20 words are enough to help you get around comfortably and connect more easily with people during your trip.

Yia sou

Yia sou means hello or goodbye in an informal way. You can use it with friends, people your age, or anyone in a casual setting. Travelers hear it constantly and can safely use it in most relaxed situations, especially on the islands.

Yia sas

Yia sas is the polite version of hello or goodbye. It is appropriate when speaking to strangers, older people, or groups. Using yia sas shows respect and is always a safe choice when you are unsure which form to use.

Kalimera

Kalimera means good morning. It is used until late morning or around midday. Saying kalimera when entering a shop or café is polite and very common across Greece.

Kalispera

Kalispera means good evening. Greeks use it from late afternoon onward. You will hear it often when arriving at restaurants, hotels, or evening gatherings.

Efharisto

Efharisto means thank you. It is one of the most important Greek words to know. Using it shows appreciation and good manners in any situation. However, if you are with a group and saying thank you to let's say your waiter on behalf of the group, you would say Efharistoumai.

Parakaló

Parakaló means please, you’re welcome, or here you go, depending on context. It is a polite word used constantly in everyday conversation and pairs naturally with efharisto.

Signomi

Signomi means excuse me or I’m sorry. It is useful in crowds, on public transport, or when trying to get someone’s attention politely.

Nai

Nai means yes. It is pronounced “neh,” which can confuse English speakers. Knowing this helps avoid misunderstandings when answering questions.

Ochi

Ochi means no. It is pronounced with a strong “kh” sound. You will hear it often and may need it when declining politely.

Pou ine

Pou ine means where is. It is helpful for asking directions to bathrooms, beaches, or landmarks. Locals usually respond kindly when travelers try Greek first.

Neró

Neró means water. This is one of the most useful words, especially in summer. Asking for neró is common in restaurants and shops.

Psomí

Psomí means bread. Bread is served almost everywhere in Greece, and you will hear this word often in bakeries and tavernas.

Kafé

Kafé means coffee. Coffee culture is strong in Greece, and this word appears on menus, signs, and daily conversations.

Taverna

Taverna refers to a traditional Greek restaurant. Locals and visitors use the word the same way, and you will see it on signs across the country.

Logariasmó

Logariasmó means the bill or check. Asking for the logariasmo at the end of a meal is polite and expected.

Agora

Agora means market. You may see this word in street markets, food markets, and town centers, especially in older areas.

Kalo

Kalo means good. It appears in many phrases and is often used on its own to show approval or agreement.

Opa

Opa is an expression of joy or excitement. You will hear it during celebrations, dancing, or lively moments at tavernas.

Filóxenia

Filóxenia describes hospitality and love for guests. It is a core cultural value in Greece and something travelers often experience firsthand.

Efharistó polí

Efharistó polí means thank you very much. It is a warmer way to express gratitude and is appreciated in personal interactions.

Final Thoughts

These 20 Greek words you should know for your trip to Greece cover the basics of greeting, politeness, food, and movement. They are not meant to make anyone fluent, but they do help travelers feel more confident and respectful. Small efforts with language often lead to warmer interactions and better experiences.

If you want to go beyond individual words and understand how Greeks naturally speak in full expressions, learning common Greek phrases is a helpful next step. Even a small vocabulary can turn simple moments into more meaningful connections during a trip.

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This article was written by the team at GetGreece. We help people learn about living in Greece full time and explore the practical steps involved in making a life here, including visas, ancestry pathways, and property guidance.