small greek lessons

Welcome & courtesy 

- Hello – Γεια σου (Ya su)

- Good morning – Καλημέρα (Kaliméra)

- Good evening – Καλησπέρα (Kalispéra)

- Good night – Καληνύχτα (Kaliníhta)

- Bye bye  – Αντίο (Adío)

- Please – Παρακαλώ (Parakaló)

- Thank you – Ευχαριστώ (Efcharistó)

- Yes – Ναι (Ne)

- No – Όχι (Óchi)

- Excuse me – Συγγνώμη (Signómi)

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In the Restaurant

- I would like to have… – Θα ήθελα … (Tha íthela …)

- The bill, please– Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (Ton logariasmó, parakaló)

- It was delicious – Ήταν νόστιμο (Ítan nóstimo)

- A water, please – Ένα νερό, παρακαλώ (Éna neró, parakaló)

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On the way

- Where is …? – Πού είναι …; (Poú íne …?)

- Beach – Παραλία (Paralía)

- Toilet – Τουαλέτα (Toualéta)

- Pharmacy – Φαρμακείο (Farmakío)

- I've lost my way – Έχασα τον δρόμο (Échasa ton drómo)

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Numbers

- One – Ένα (Éna)

- Two – Δύο (Dío)

- Three – Τρία (Tría)

- Four – Τέσσερα (Téssera)

- Five – Πέντε (Pénde)

Etiquette & tips for travelers:

1. Friendliness & Greetings Greeks are warm and hospitable. 

A friendly "Kalimera" (good morning) or "Kalispera" (good evening) is always well received. Shaking hands is common, and with acquaintances, a hug or a kiss on the cheek is often also offered. 

2. Clothing & appearance

In churches or monasteries, modest clothing is required: shoulders and knees should be covered. Swimwear is normal at the beach, but in town or at dinner, you should dress appropriately.

3. Punctuality

Greeks often take time in stride—a few minutes late is no big deal. Nevertheless, you should arrive politely and punctually.

4. Tip

Tipping is appreciated, but not required. 5–10% is customary in restaurants, you can round up in taxis, and cleaning staff will also appreciate €1–2 per day.

5. Language

Many Greeks speak English, especially in tourist areas. However, knowing a few words of Greek is always appreciated.