5 Ways to Save on Your Greek Island Vacation
Just like much of the rest of the world, Greece is recovering from a sobering economic recession followed by the crushing weight of a pandemic. Unlike much of the world, however, Greece has also become home to masses of refugees. So please, don’t negotiate with anyone on the islands this summer as a way to save on your Greek island vacation.
Instead, consider these five great ways for you to enjoy a budget-friendly stay in Greece while also giving back to the local communities.
Related: Athens — 5 budget travel tips for a Greek vacation
How to Save Money in Greece
Fortunately, you can put your tourist dollars to good use and still save money in your travel fund with these simple tips.
Taking in the views from the spa town Therma on the island of Ikaria. Photo: KayMaria Daskarolis
1. Consider Less Touristy Islands
You may be surprised to learn that Mykonos and Santorini are not the only Greek islands. It’s true. There are, in fact, more than 6,000 islands in Greece, 227 of which are inhabited. Skip Mykonos and Santorini. Go to one or more of the other equally glorious and unique islands to save on your Greek island vacation. Everything is less expensive on these lesser-known islands. Really, everything.
2. Make the Most of Markets
Eat one of your daily meals at a taverna to support the local economy. Share several mezedes (think: tapas) with your companions. Then go to an open-air market or grocery store to get food for your other meals. Here are our suggestions for your shopping list:
- feta
- Kalamata olives
- tomatoes
- bell peppers
- cucumbers
- a loaf of bread
- fresh oranges
- a small bottle of Kalamata olive oil
Regardless of which Greek island you visit, there will be benches, tops of walls, parks, boulders, and beaches available for you to sit and enjoy your meal outdoors. Another scrumptious option for a budget-, body-, and soul-nurturing meal is to go to a fourno. This is a bakery — a zaharoplasteio is also a bakery, but typically only sells sweet baked goods.
At the fourno, buy tiropites (cheese “pies” in filo dough), spanakopites (spinach “pies” in filo dough), and other savory pites, with varied fillings to tantalize your tastebuds. For us, a single one of these is enough for a meal — which is not to say that we only eat one — and lightens our wallet by a mere couple of euros.
Related: Cheap Eats in Athens: 4 spots for Greek cuisine on a budget
3. Walk
Walk as your primary form of transportation. You can even walk around Crete, Greek’s largest island, to take in the sights. Not only will this save help you save on your Greek island vacation, but you are guaranteed to encounter ancient archaeological sites or natural hot springs.
You may meet some grandmothers whose families have lived on the island for too many generations to count. Perhaps you come across a herd of goats, a field of poppies, a grandfather selling honey on the side of the road, or any number of other magical happenstances you would miss if you were not on foot.
In fact, whether you’re in Greece or traveling elsewhere in southern Europe, hoofing it is a great way to get around.
4. Share a Taxi As Needed
Share a taxi to get from the ferry port or airport to the town where you and your companion(s) are staying. This is also a good way to make new friends. Since it is the time of COVID-19, make sure to fit your N95 on your face. Offer N95 masks to others who will be sharing the taxi with you.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Explore
Say “yes” to the multitude of opportunities that await you outside of the trendy spots. Just because a place has not been written about ad nauseam does not mean that it has less to offer than more popular spots. Get a bit off the Internet-beaten path. By doing so, you are sure to save money while you delight in a piece of your Grecian adventure you couldn’t have planned.
Bonus Tip!
And remember: It costs nothing to show respect and kindness. Show them both. Often.
Ready for your adventure in Greece? Check out our hotel picks in Athens.
If you’ve already visited the Greek islands, be sure to share your favorite budget-friendly tips with us in the comments below!
