Greece is at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists for good reason! Whether it’s ancient history or picturesque islands you seek, Greece has it all. Not to mention it’s home to one of the world‘s best (and healthiest) cuisines as well as a vibrant local culture.
The Greek language contributes greatly to the country’s fascinating history and culture. However, Greek is an incredibly difficult language for English speakers to learn. We’re talking about a completely different alphabet with over three times more words than English! Don’t let this put you off visiting though. Many Greek people speak English, particularly in areas that are frequented by tourists. However, they will certainly appreciate the effort if you at least try to use a few Greek phrases on your travels!
Expat Explore has put together a list of handy Greek phrases that you can use while travelling. While you may not be fluent, you should be able to use these phrases to greet locals, order some food or ask for directions!
Related: Keen to learn another language? Read our handy Portuguese travel phrase guide!
Here are some useful Greek phrases to use on your next trip:
Greetings:
Yeia sou “Yah-Soo” (Γειά σου) – Hello
There are a few ways to say “hello” in Greek. The above is an informal hello. However, if you want to give a casual “hi”, you can simply say “Ya”. The more formal hello that you may hear at an upmarket restaurant or hotel is “Yeia Sas”.
Kalimera (Καλημέρα) – Good Morning
Kalispera (Καλησπέρα) – Good Evening
Kalinikta (Καληνύχτα) – Good Night
Andio (αντίο) – Goodbye
You can use “kalimera” until noon and then switch to “yeia sou” until about 5pm. Then, start using “kalispera!” When you go to bed, bid everyone “kalinikta”. To say goodbye, “andio” can be used any time of the day or evening. Even if you don’t learn any other Greek words, greetings will go a long way in showing respect to locals.
The magic words:
Parakalo (Παρακαλώ) – Please/You’re welcome
Conveniently, the Greek word for “please” is the same as the Greek word for “you’re welcome”. There you have it, you just learnt two words in one!
Efharisto (Ευχαριστώ) – Thank you
Yamas (Στην υγειά μας!) – Cheers!
Signomi (Συγνώμη) – Excuse me
Nai/Oxi (Ναί/όχι) – Yes/no
Opa! (Ωπα) – Oops!
It may be a bit confusing for English speakers to learn that “nai” which kind of sounds like “no” actually means “yes” in Greek! Whereas “oxi” (pronounced oh-knee) actually means “no”. “Efharisto” is probably the most useful word for polite travellers and an enthusiastic “yamas!” will come in handy when enjoying local beer, wine or raki! You will have most likely heard the Greek word “opa” before – especially if you’ve ever enjoyed some Greek festivities. While the direct translation is “oops”, it is so much more than that! “Opa” can be used to show appreciation for music, dancing, food and drinks.
Related: Read all about this couple who renewed their vows in Greece!
Getting around:
Pou eínai i toualéta (Πού είναι η τουαλέτα) – Where is the bathroom?
Pos pao sto (πώς πάω στο) – How do I get to…?
Pou paei afto to trno/leoforeio (που πάει αυτό το τρένο/λεωφορείο) – Where does this train/bus go?
Estiatorio (εστιατόριο) – Restaurant
Poso (πόσο) – How much?
Stathmós metró (σταθμός μετρό) – Metro station
While Google Maps can be an excellent tool for getting around in a foreign country, as many travellers know, it isn’t always 100% accurate! And if your battery dies or you don’t have a local sim card, you may need to rely on the kindness of strangers. Try these out and even if the person you ask can’t translate into English, they might be able to give you a helpful hand gesture!
Miscommunications:
Milas anglika? (μιλάς αγγλικά?) – Do you speak English?
Den katalavaino (δεν καταλαβαίνω) – I do not understand
Den milao ellinika (δεν μιλαω ελληνικα) – I don’t speak Greek
Den gnorizo (δεν γνωρίζω) – I don’t know
Let’s be honest, Greek is an extremely difficult language for English speakers and, while this list may help, it certainly won’t make you fluent! Miscommunications are almost guaranteed to occur and that’s where these short phrases will come in handy.
Related: See the best of Greece with this tour that includes mainland Greece and the spectacular islands of Santorini and Mykonos!
Excited to give your Greek a try? Book one of our tours to Greece and start practising your Ελληνικά!