Many people often consider a trip to Athens a bucket list experience. As the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, Athens holds an unparalleled allure for history enthusiasts. 

Communication is a significant part of your Athenian adventure, but it’s not something you have to worry about since, in Greece, English is widely spoken. To level up your experience, we have gathered the 10 most common Greek phrases to learn before your trip. 

Hello: Γειά σου (Yassu)

Used as a friendly greeting. Greeks typically use this when they meet someone, but it can also be used as a goodbye. It literally means “to your health”. 

How are you?: Τι κάνεις; (Ti kanis)

You can combine it with “hi” and say, “Yassu! Ti kanis?”. It’s the most common phrase when you meet someone. 

Good morning: Καλημέρα (Kalimera)

It may seem very formal in English, but in Greek, it’s one of the most popular words. It’s literally translated to “good day”, the most common phrase someone says from the moment they wake up in the morning till 12pm. Usually, you use it when you meet someone. 

Good night: Καληνύχτα (Kalinihta) 

You say “kalinihta” when bidding farewell at night, such as leaving a tavern or bar to return to your hotel to rest. You can also use it when going to bed for the night. 

Thank you: Ευχαριστώ (Efharistó)

‘Efharistó’ is the go-to word for expressing gratitude, and it will bring a smile to people’s faces. It is a bit difficult to pronounce it, but don’t get discouraged. 

Please or You are welcome: Παρακαλώ (Parakalo)

In Greek, we use the same word for both, please and you are welcome. So, when someone serves you your dinner, you may say “Efharisto”, and they will answer “Parakalo”.

Yes: Ναι (Neh) & No: Όχι (Óchi)

They are the basic two words in every language. No is a bit difficult to pronounce in Greek because the “h” is very heavy. You can read it out as oh-hee. 

I’m sorry or Excuse me: Συγγνώμη (Siggnomi)

This is best described as ‘see-ghno-mee’, with a soft ‘g’ sound. It is another difficult word to pronounce, but you shouldn’t worry about it. Greeks use sorry very often. 

So, now let’s move to the most essential phrases. 

A cold beer/lemonade please: Μια παγωμένη μπύρα/λεμονάδα παρακαλώ (Mia payomeni bira/lemonada parakalo).
So, let’s face it. You are finally in Greece, and it’s summer. A cold drink is your best friend. So you’d better learn how to say it also!

Cheers: Γεια μας (Yia mas) 

Well, now that you have your beer and probably your food also, it’s about time you celebrate your trip to Athens with a toast. Raise your glass and say Yia mas, which means to our health.