Money & Payments in Thessaloniki (2026)

Good to know

Good to Know

Starting from the 1st of April 2024, people are able to pay by card in all kiosks, open-air markets, taxis and many more businesses.
Cash remains relevant in Greece, though usage continues to decline with the rise of digital and card payments. In 2024, cash accounted for 52% of point-of-sale transactions, down from 59% in 2022.
Carry cash for smaller purchases at markets; many smaller stalls prefer cash, so it's wise to carry small denominations, though larger vendors may accept card payments.
Card terminals don't always work and there's a chance you won't even find one if you're travelling to the Greek countryside or islands.
In larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, many mid-to-high-end restaurants and hotels accept credit cards and may give you the option to add a tip to the bill when paying by card.
In Thessaloniki specifically, card acceptance is strong for a major urban center; plan to carry both cards and modest cash for maximum flexibility.

Major Banks In City

Alpha Bank
Online Options
Some digital onboarding for residents with AFM
English Support
Yes, available in Thessaloniki branches
Piraeus Bank
Online Options
Good for foreigners; international customer services
English Support
Yes, 24-hour service line available
National Bank of Greece (NBG)
Online Options
Accepts foreign numbers; online app available
English Support
Yes, in larger branches
Eurobank
Online Options
Offers remote account opening for some profiles
English Support
Yes

Account Opening Process

Timeline: Processing typically 7-10 days after document submission; longer if additional due diligence required
Minimum Deposit: €150
Typical average; varies by bank from €1-€250
Physical Presence Required: Yes

Documentation Needed

Valid passport or EU ID
Greek Tax Number (AFM) or non-Greek TIN
Proof of address (utility bill preferred)
Proof of income or employment
Tax residency information

Tipping Norms

Taxis: Tipping is not expected or required for taxi drivers on mainland Greece. Some may accept a tip, but in our experience, even saying 'Keep the change' or walking away did not equate to our taxi drivers accepting a tip.
Restaurants: A normal amount of tipping in Greek restaurants is for a lunch or a dinner, rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is standard. If it is a special or more formal event, then consider tipping around 10-15% of the total bill.
Bars And Cafes: If you visit a bar or a club, it is very common to leave €1 per drink. Or if you don't pay each drink separately, and you pay when leaving, you can round up the bill or tip a few euros extra, especially if the bartender provides excellent service.
Payment Method: Always tip in cash even when paying by card, as electronic tips may not reach service staff. Leave tips on the table rather than adding to card payments, ensuring your appreciation goes directly to your server.
Cash Preference: Cash is the preferred method for tipping, as it's more convenient for smaller amounts. Always have some cash in hand for tipping purposes to avoid confusion or discomfort.
General Overview: Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but it's greatly appreciated. The most common tip is around 10-15%, but people sometimes leave enough to round up the bill.
Location Variance: If you visit a big city, like Athens or Thessaloniki, or an island that is a popular tourist destination, like Santorini or Mykonos, it is very common to tip. Also, people working in these areas are used to receiving tips. The reason for this is that in these areas, businesses are more accustomed to visitors from cultures where tipping is standard, and tips are more likely to be expected.

Card Acceptance

Contactless: Contactless card usage is also growing steadily. The maximum limit per contactless transaction is €50.
Mobile Wallets: Apple Pay is available in Greece and supported by major Greek banks and wallet providers. Google Pay launched in Greece in 2022 and is now accepted widely across e-commerce and retail.
Widely Accepted: Visa and Mastercard are the most common networks, accepted nearly everywhere. In cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, and in popular island destinations, it is increasingly normal to tap a card or phone for everything from a coffee to a ferry ticket.
American Express: American Express is accepted by large retailers and travel platforms but remains limited in small e-commerce stores.
Practical Note: Most card transactions in Greece require a PIN. Ensure you know your PIN and that it meets the required format (typically 4 digits).

ATM Fees And Details

Avoid: Avoid using Euronet ATMs in Greece (or anywhere, really). Euronet ATMs are found in the most convenient locations on purpose. Withdrawing from Euronet ATMs means high transactions fees and the worst exchange rates.
Typical Charges: You can expect to pay around €2 to €4 EUR per withdrawal at ATMs with fees. Your home bank may still apply its own foreign transaction fees or cash advance interest.
Recommended Banks: Piraeus Bank and Alpha Bank have the widest coverage around Greece. You can find multiple ATM machines on the mainland and on the islands.
Withdrawal Limits: Most ATMs in Greece have a daily withdrawal limit, typically around €600.
Current Legislation: In 2025, Greece introduced zero withdrawal fees through most of the main ATM network and capped fees on third party machines. 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.
Dynamic Currency Conversion: When using an ATM in Greece, you'll be asked if you want the transaction to be converted into your local currency or carried out in the local currency (EUR). It's always recommended to withdraw in the local currency, without a currency conversion. This will mean you get a better rate.

Fees

Account Opening: No opening fee
Monthly Maintenance: Varies by bank; typically minimal
International Transfer: €15
Typical range €15-€30
ATM Withdrawal Outside Network: €2.00

Foreign nationals can open bank accounts in Greece with proper documentation and in-person verification. Process requires personal visit to branch for signature sample.

Practical Considerations

Most Greek banks require handwritten signature in person. English-speaking staff more readily available in Thessaloniki and Athens branches. Due diligence checks can be stringent; non-EU citizens may face longer verification periods. All documents must be notarized and/or translated into Greek unless bank accepts English. Power of Attorney option available but more expensive and time-consuming. Limited online opening for non-residents without AFM.

AI-generated estimateData refreshed July 2026

Sources cited for this category

These are the sources cited in this money & payments research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.

More About Thessaloniki

Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.

Money & Payments in Thessaloniki