These 12 Cheap Getaways in Greece Are So Gorgeous, They Don’t Feel Real

Cheap getaways in Greece include charming mainland towns like Nafplio and underrated gems like Ios.

The country has budget-friendly destinations where you can explore ancient sites, swim at white sand beaches, and eat well for under €15 a day.

Islands like Paros and seaside cities like Thessaloniki offer stunning scenery without the sky-high prices of its expensive luxury travel destinations.

To create this list, we used personal travel experience, local recommendations, and data on average hotel and food costs. From the Peloponnese to lesser-known islands, here are 12 affordable destinations in Greece.

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12 Cheapest Places To Visit in Greece Crete

Chania, Crete 1/5

12 Cheap Getaways in Greece Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki 2/5

15 Iconic Places in the World for Your Bucket List

Athens 3/5

Corfu 4/5

12 Cheap Warm Destinations in October To Escape the Cold Without Emptying Your Wallet

Rhodes 5/5

Results

Chania, Crete

32 7

Thessaloniki

23 16

Athens

23 16

Corfu

24 15

Rhodes

29 10

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Athens

Despite being one of the most visited places in Greece and the nation’s capital, Athens’s average daily travel cost is only $139. That makes it one of Greece’s cheapest getaways. Considering how much Athens offers, this likely comes as a surprise.

You can stay near Monastiraki in a budget Airbnb for €50 a night and walk to all the major ruins. A combo ticket for archaeological sites saves you €20 compared to individual entries. For meals, I’d grab a gyro for €3 in Plaka.

Greece’s vibrant capital is best known for its rich history. Therefore, you’ll spend most of your vacation visiting the city’s most famous landmarks, especially the Acropolis of Athens. This UNESCO-listed site is the most complete and striking ancient Greek complex in the world and home to the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Other must-visit attractions in Athens include the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Prison of Socrates.

Acropolis Museum Rooftop Café: The museum’s rooftop café offers stunning views of the Parthenon without an entry ticket. It’s a great spot for a coffee break, and prices are reasonable for the location.
Free Sunset View at Areopagus Hill: For a breathtaking sunset view of the Acropolis, I walked up Areopagus Hill, just outside the entrance. It’s completely free and a favorite spot for locals.

Thessaloniki

Another affordable travel destination in mainland Greece is Thessaloniki, a breathtaking city along the Thermaic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The average daily travel cost is $146.

I always take the public bus from the airport—it’s only €2 compared to a €25 taxi. For lunch, the bougatsa (cream-filled pastry) at local bakeries is just €1.50 and super filling. I stay in Ano Poli for cheaper stays and the best views.

Like Athens, this beautiful port city has many historical landmarks and spectacular architectural structures, like the White Tower. Thessaloniki offers fantastic sea views along the waterfront.

When you’re not admiring Thessaloniki’s coastal charm, get lost exploring the city. You’ll find stunning Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman architecture in the Upper Town (Ano Poli).

Meanwhile, foodies can sample local delights at Agora Modiano. Other notable attractions in Thessaloniki include the Church of Osios David, the Trigonion Tower, the Ataturk Museum, and the White Tower of Thessaloniki.

Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square: Every Sunday at 11:00 AM, I watched the full ceremonial changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament. The evzones, in traditional uniforms, perform an elaborate march—it’s free and worth seeing.
Local Tavern in Psiri: For an affordable and authentic meal, I ate at Oineas in Psiri. Their meze plates were delicious, and the atmosphere felt genuinely local. Reservations help, especially on weekends.

Corfu

If you’d prefer to travel to Greece for sun, sea, and sand, head to Corfu, one of the nation’s most cosmopolitan islands.

Although Corfu is known for its luxury vibes, you can also find good deals. The average daily travel cost is only $123, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank.

Avoid Old Town if you’re on a tight budget. You can book a room in Paleokastritsa or Glyfada for half the price. The local bus is reliable and costs around €2 for most routes.

Located off Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a big hit with history buffs, beachgoers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Significant points of interest on the island include the Old Fortress of Corfu, the Achilleion Palace, Aqualand, and Paleokastritsa Beach.

Free Sunset Spot at Kaiser’s Throne: I hiked up to Kaiser’s Throne in Pelekas for a panoramic sunset view over Corfu. It’s completely free, and the scenery is stunning.
Budget-Friendly Seafood in Benitses: I had an excellent fresh seafood meal at Klimataria in Benitses, a family-run taverna with fair prices compared to touristy spots in Old Town. Reservations are recommended.

Chania, Crete

Travelers searching for a cheap getaway in Greece should consider staying in Chania, a charming coastal town on the island of Crete.

Every time I visit Chania, I am stunned by how cheap everything is and the high quality, especially the food.

I usually spend less than $100 a day by staying in a local guesthouse, eating at family-run tavernas like my favorite seafood tavern Apostolis (where a full meal costs under $20), and walking instead of using taxis—Chania is super walkable.

Romantic couples can enjoy scenic walks along the waterfront. Beachgoers can sunbathe and swim in the turquoise waters of Nea Chora Beach.

Keen shoppers can buy souvenirs from the quaint shops and Old Chania Market, and history buffs can admire the magnificent architecture in the 14th-century Venetian harbor.

Affordable Local Wine at Daliani Street: I found some of the best (and cheapest) Cretan wine at the cozy bars on Daliani Street. Many serve local house wine for under €3 a glass, making it a great budget-friendly nightlife spot.
Bus to Balos Beach Instead of a Tour: I took the local bus instead of an expensive tour and then hiked down to Balos Beach. The views were incredible, and I saved a lot compared to organized trips.

Rhodes

The average daily travel cost in Rhodes is $148, making it one of Greece’s most affordable vacation destinations.

Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, is well known for its affordable beach resorts, scenic beaches, and ancient ruins. I’ve been to Rhodes multiple times, and I love how it has something everyone can do.

I usually take the bus around the island—only €2–€5 depending on the route. You can also stay just outside Rhodes Old Town and save €30+ per night. Grab lunch at bakeries (tiropita or spanakopita for €2) instead of sit-down restaurants.

Once, we visited Rhodes in May and we rented a car for €50 for a week. Yes, €50 for a week, this is not a typo. This is not enough even for a day in August!

Thrill seekers can race down the waterslides at Waterpark Rhodes. Some of my favorite places include Pefki Beach, Lindos Acropolis, and the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.

Kallithea Springs: This restored spa features Art Deco architecture and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for a swim, and there’s a café with sea views.
Seven Springs (Epta Piges): Free entry, best visited before noon. Walk through the 186-meter water tunnel (bring water shoes), then relax by the waterfalls. There’s a taverna nearby with traditional Greek dishes.

Heraklion, Crete

If you have a bigger budget, you could stay in Heraklion during your vacation to Crete. The average daily travel cost in Heraklion might be $173, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of Greece’s more affordable destinations. For context, Mykonos’ average daily travel cost is over $250.

The Palace of Knossos is best visited with the combo ticket (€20) that also covers museums. You can find a cheap hotel if you do not search only in the center of the city and have dinner near the port where locals eat, which is way more affordable.

When not drinking white wine by the sea or tucking into tasty Greek food, visit the city’s most famous sights, like the Palace of Knossos, the Koules Fortress, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The city also has a lively nightlife.

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Free City Views from the Venetian Walls: I walked up to the Venetian Walls for a panoramic view of Heraklion. It’s completely free and a great spot for sunset photos.
Budget-Friendly Meze at Ouzeri Tou Terzaki: For an affordable local dining experience, I had meze at Ouzeri Tou Terzaki. Small plates of Cretan specialties start at €3, and the house raki is complimentary.

Nafplion

Tucked away in the rugged and gorgeous Argolic Gulf in Peloponnese, you’ll find the coastal city of Nafplion.

This peaceful city offers travelers quaint cobblestone streets, beautiful coastal views, and historical sites for less than $150 daily.

The best way to explore is on foot, and many of the historical sites are free or under €5. I found great €6 breakfasts with Greek coffee and stayed in a charming pension for €40 a night. Parking is free near the fortress too.

Notable points of interest in the city include the imposing Fortress of Palamidi, Akronafplia’s Castle, and Vasileios Papantoniou. Meanwhile, beach lovers can relax on Paralia Arvanitias.

Karathona Beach: Free parking and sunbeds available with a drink purchase. A quieter alternative to Paralia Arvanitias, this long sandy beach is ideal for swimming. There’s a scenic walking path from Arvanitia if you prefer a coastal hike.
Koustenis Bakery: Try a koulouri or bougatsa. This local favorite near Syntagma Square serves fresh pastries and traditional Greek sweets—perfect for a budget-friendly snack.

Hydra

Hydra is Greece’s perfect cheap getaway destination for travelers who want to escape everyday hustle, bustle, and stress and enjoy a relaxed break in paradise.

This underrated Greek island offers travelers tranquil beaches, a quiet coastal town, and authentic Greek charm. Better yet, the average daily travel cost is only $130.

There are no cars here, so zero transport costs! I took a ferry from Piraeus for under €20. For accommodation, I stayed in a small guesthouse up the hill—less touristy and way cheaper than harborfront options.

Imagine being surrounded by vibrant buildings, stunning medieval architecture, breathtaking sea views, and gorgeous beaches without any car noise.

Hike to Prophet Elias Monastery: Takes about 1.5 hours, bring water. The uphill trek rewards you with stunning island views. The monastery itself is peaceful, and you might be offered traditional Greek sweets by the monks.
Taverna Gitoniko: Located in an alley away from the port, this family-run taverna serves delicious homemade moussaka and fresh seafood at local prices.

Delphi

Another underrated and affordable travel destination in Greece is Delphi, a small town in mainland Greece. It is also one of the most popular day trips from Athens.

Delphi is an excellent place to visit if you want to explore historical sites, escape the hustle and bustle of Athens, and experience Greece’s picturesque mountain landscapes. The daily travel cost here is $141.

I traveled from Athens by intercity bus for under €15 and stayed at a cozy guesthouse for €30 with mountain views. Entry to the archaeological site is €12, and local tavernas have hearty meals for €8–€10.

The town itself is a joy to walk around. The traditional houses with their orange-tiled rooves look amazing. However, the ancient ruins surrounding Delphi will blow your mind.

Make sure you visit the Temple of Apollo, Tholos of Athena Pronaia, the Ancient Theater of Delphi, and the Ancient Stadium of Delphi. You can also learn more about Dephi’s rich history at the Delphi Archaeological Museum.

Hike the Ancient Footpath to Corycian Cave: Free, about 3 hours round-trip. This scenic trail starts near the ruins and leads to a cave once dedicated to Pan. Bring water and wear good shoes.

Aegina

If you’re starting your Greek adventure in the capital and have limited time to see the Greek islands, head to Aegina, the closest island to Athens.

I did Aegina as a day trip from Athens—the ferry is under €20 each way. I rented a bike for €5 to explore the island and bought pistachios (Aegina’s famous local product) for snacks. Lunch at the harbor costs about €15 with wine.

It only takes one hour to reach Aegina from the port of Piraeus, and the average daily travel cost is less than $130. Must-see attractions include the Temple of Aphaia, the Tower of Markellos, and the Archaeological Museum of Aegina.

In Aegina Town, the island’s main port and town, you’ll find beautiful neoclassical buildings and winding narrow streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Moni Island: Boat trip for €10 from Perdika. A short ride from Aegina, this uninhabited island is great for swimming and spotting wild deer and peacocks. Bring snacks, as there are no shops.
Kavourina Tavern: Fresh seafood by the water for under €20. Located in Perdika, this family-run spot serves delicious grilled octopus and shrimp saganaki with sunset views.

Paros

Ways To Save Money Traveling in Greece Visit Free Attractions — © kite_rin / Adobe Stock

Paros is one of Greece’s most beautiful cheap getaways. This stunning island often goes under the radar of travelers, but it’s starting to grow in popularity. This is hardly surprising considering how much it offers and the affordable prices.

I stayed in Naoussa’s outskirts to save money, and buses around the island are only €1.80. For beach days, I bought fruit, bread, and cheese for under €5 total. Kolymbithres Beach has free loungers if you go early. You can easily stay in Paros for less than $135 a day.

Paros’s relaxed atmosphere, traditional architecture, and impressive natural beauty make it an excellent place to unwind and rejuvenate. It’s also a great spot for a romantic vacation.

You’ll likely spend your days exploring the winding streets of the main town, sunbathing on Kolymbithres Beach, sipping Greek wine by the sea, and visiting the main sights. Don’t miss Paros Park and the Archaeological Museum of Paros.

Lefkes Village: Bus fare is €1.80, and it’s great for a quiet escape. This mountain village has charming whitewashed alleys, scenic hiking trails, and cozy cafés serving homemade galaktoboureko.
Siparos Restaurant: Sunset dining with mains around €18. Located near Naoussa, this seaside taverna offers fresh seafood and local specialties—reservations recommended for the best views.

Ios

12 Cheap Getaways in Greece Ios — © jefwod / Adobe Stock

Ios makes this list of cheap getaways in Greece because it offers travelers sunny skies, white-washed architecture, long sandy beaches, and turquoise waters for less than $130 a day. Most bars offer happy hour drinks for €5. You can eat souvlaki for under €4.

In many ways, Ios provides the same experience as Santorini, just without the large crowds and high prices. It’s an excellent place for a beach holiday or honeymoon.

Admittedly, there isn’t as much to do in Ios as in other Greek islands, but that’s part of Ios’ charm. You don’t need an excuse to spend your vacation sunbathing on the beaches, drinking wine by the sea, strolling around town, and indulging in Greek food.

However, popular points of interest on the island include the Church of Panagia Gremniotissa, Paralia Milopotas, Magganari Beach, and the Tomb of Homer.

Path to Panagia Gremniotissa: Best walked at sunset. The uphill walk through Chora’s whitewashed alleys leads to the island’s best sunset spot, with breathtaking views over the Aegean.
Drakos Taverna: Fresh seafood by the water for under €20. Located at Mylopotas Beach, this family-run spot serves excellent grilled fish and octopus with a relaxed seaside atmosphere.