Travel planning

Language in Greece

Nadine Dirksen

In stores and museums, you will find that most people understand English. Many students learn English in elementary and secondary school, while other people have learned English through visiting with tourists. While most Greeks don’t expect foreigners to speak the language, knowing just a few words will be very much appreciated – especially in the countryside.

Helpful words and Phrases

Good Morning – Kalimera
Good Evening – Kalispera
Do you speak English – Milate Agglika
Hello/Goodbye – Yasas
How are you? – Ti Kanete?
I’m fine. – Kala imeh
Yes – Nai
No – Ochi
Thank You – Efharisto
Please – Parakalo
Excuse Me – Signomi
Could you help me? – Borite na me voithisete?
How much does this cost? – Poso kani?

I’m lost – Ehasa to dhromo
What? – Ti?
When? – Pote?
Where? – Pu?
Post Office – Taxidromio
Bank – Trapeza
Restaurant – Estiatorio or taverna
Telephone – Tilefono
Phone-card – Tilekarta

Can we see the menu? – Borume na dhume ton katalogho?
Cheers! – Yamas!