The Euro is the official currency of Greece. The first Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 2002; the Greek Drachma was in circulation until February 28 2002, when it was completely replaced by the Euro. 1 Euro = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2, 1 and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Bank opening hours are Monday to Thursday 8:00am to 2:30pm, Friday 8:00am to 2:00pm

It’s easy to open a bank account in Greece – you will need just your passport and a deposit, usually a minimum of 150 Euros.

Checks in Greece are not widely used and unless you run a business you will not need a checkbook. Checks are not generally accepted in shops and supermarkets. Credit cards are now widely available in Greece and they are accepted in supermarkets, stores, petrol stations and tavernas in town, but not in many smaller shops and village tavernas.

To obtain a credit card from your Greek bank you will require a copy of your passport, copy of your last tax return, and foreign residents may also be asked to produce a residence permit and proof of income. Credit limits usually start off low, around 300 Euros.