How to Use ATMs in Greece: A Complete Guide for Expats (2026)

Like anywhere else, you’ll need some spending money when you travel. Especially when you’re relocating to a new country like Greece, finding where to withdraw cash is often one of the first items on your to-do list.  

This guide covers how ATMs work in Greece, where to find them, and a full breakdown of Greek ATM fees for American and European travelers, expats and digital nomads. 

We’ll also explain the recent legislative changes that Greece introduced to how ATM fees are charged, which affects both locals and foreigners. This is crucial for anyone planning to move to Greece and navigate the local cost of living. 

How ATMs Work in Greece

Most Greek ATMs are compatible with a wide variety of debit and credit cards. You can typically use Visa and Mastercard to withdraw cash at any Greek ATM, but American Express and Discover cards are much less common.

To find the nearest cash machines that accept Visa and Mastercard, check these interactive maps:

• Visa ATM locator
• MasterCard ATM locator

International Cards Accepted in Greece (Ranked)

Where to Find ATMs from Major Banks in Greece

To find ATMs in Greece, you can use these ATM locator tools from these major Greek banks:

• Alpha Bank - ATM locator
• Piraeus Bank - ATM locator
• National Bank of Greece - ATM locator
• Attica Bank - ATM locator
• Eurobank - ATM locator
  

Pro Tip: For a deeper dive into which bank fits your lifestyle and preferences, read our updated 2026 on the 6 most popular banks across Greece, updated for 2026. 

International Cards Accepted in Greece (Ranked)

Where to Find ATMs on Islands and Rural Areas in Greece

ATMs are widespread on popular Greek islands like Crete, Rhodes, or Corfu, and in busy tourist hubs, like Santorini and Mykonos. They are usually placed near ferry ports, airports, and town squares. 

However, as you move into rural villages or smaller islands (like Anafi or Sikinos), ATMs become significantly harder to find. This is why bringing cash is always useful, so if the only ATM breaks down on the island you’re visiting (which sometimes can happen), you won’t be in panic mode.  

Finding ATMs on Greek Islands 

On small Greek islands, there may only be one or two ATMs for the entire population. During the peak of summer, these can suffer from cash shortages or technical glitches. 

For short island hops, it’s best to bring enough cash to last your stay. However, if you're staying longer than a few weeks, consider finding nearby islands with more reliable ATM networks.

Finding ATMs in Rural Areas in Greece 

In mountain villages or mainland areas, ATMs are difficult to come across. You might have to drive to the nearest large town or regional “capital" to find a machine.

The Best Time and Place to Exchange Money into Euros

If cash withdrawals are unavoidable, it is highly advised to exchange small amounts of cash (USD or GBP) after you arrive in Greece.

Here are some best practices for exchanging cash into euros:

• The best places to exchange money are at currency exchange counters in the city center, mainly in downtown Athens, such as Syntagma or Kolonaki. 
• Look out for "no commission" signage and transparent rate boards.
• Avoid airport exchange desks, port exchanges (such as Piraeus and islands), and hotels, as airport exchanges often bake 5–12% into the rate.
• Avoid exchanging money before arriving in Greece. This can result in a double conversion spread, poor retail foreign exchange (FX) rates, and is often worse than even Greek airport desks. 

More Pro-Tips for Rural Travel

1. If you are visiting a small island (like Anafi or Sikinos), assume there is only one ATM. If it’s broken, you’re stuck. Always withdraw enough cash for your stay before you leave the mainland.
   
2. Even though the law in Greece requires businesses to have POS machines, many small tavernas or guesthouses may claim their machine is "broken" or has "no signal" to avoid fees. Having cash is essential to navigate these kinds of situations.
   
3. You may see blue and yellow "Euronet" machines in tourist spots. You must avoid these independent banks, since they charge much higher transaction fees than Greek bank ATMs (like Alpha Bank, Piraeus, or National Bank of Greece). 

Avoiding “Third-Party” ATM Traps

As a tourist or expat, you must avoid withdrawing cash from independent or third-party ATMs. These ATMs are not owned or operated by a Greek retail bank, such as Alpha Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece (NBG), and Piraeus Bank. 

Instead, they are run by independent operators and are usually located in tourist hotspots and high-traffic areas.

How to Spot Third-Party ATMs: 

• Euronet ATMs: The most common type of third-party ATM. You will find these at airports, ferry ports, and outside convenience stores across Greece.
• Printec/Cash Point: These often have neutral branding or generic "ATM" signs and are not associated with a bank branch.

Always look for the logos of major Greek banks (Alpha, Eurobank, NBG, Piraeus) to ensure you are getting the legally protected fee rates.

ATM Fees and Charges Explained (2025/2026 Update)

In 2025, Greece introduced zero withdrawal fees through most of the main ATM network and capped fees on third party machines. This was a massive relief for expats and locals alike.

Before 2025, most retail banks charged fees if you withdrew cash at an ATM that did not belong to your own bank. Charges could be even more for international cards. 

Key Changes from the 2025 Greek ATM Law 

• Cash withdrawals between different Greek banks within the DIAS interbank system are now free.
• Fees for withdrawals at third-party/independent ATMs are now capped at €1.50. (Previously, these could exceed €5).
• No bank can charge you to check your balance at an ATM.
• In municipalities where only one ATM exists, withdrawals are free, regardless of who owns the machine.

Important note: While Greek law limits what the local ATM can charge you, your home bank may still apply its own foreign transaction fees or cash advance interest.

Home bank or international card charges you might see on your statement include:

• Foreign Transaction Fees (FX Conversion): A percentage fee your bank may apply for withdrawals made in a foreign currency.
• Cash Withdrawal Fees: Some card providers charge a specific fee or interest when you take out cash from an ATM abroad.

Alternatives to Cash

• Digital Banks: Expats often use Revolut or Wise to hold Euros directly, minimizing conversion fees.
• Daily Caps: Greek ATMs typically limit transactions to €600–€900, but your home bank's daily limit (often €500) is usually the "real" bottleneck.

FAQ section 

Does Greece limit how much cash I can bring into the country? Yes. Under EU anti-money laundering laws, you must declare any amount of €10,000 or more (or equivalent) to customs upon arrival. Failure to declare can result in fines or seizure of the funds.

When should I open a Greek bank account? If you plan on staying long-term, open an account as soon as you have your AFM (Taxpayer ID). This eliminates ATM fees entirely and is necessary for paying utilities or rent.

Why Choose My Greek Expat Journey?

At My Greek Expat Journey, we assist expats from around the world in obtaining residency permits and handling complex paperwork. With a trusted network of top-rated accountants and lawyers, we ensure your move to Greece is seamless and secure. To help you on your journey, we offer specific guidance on how to get started, from learning how to open a Greek bank account to finding ways to relocate from the USA to Greece. To find out more, book a 15-minute discovery call to learn more about our services.