Moving to Greece means entering one of the world’s most distinctive cultures — warm, expressive, historically rich, and fiercely proud. Greeks are remarkably welcoming to foreigners, but understanding local customs will help you build genuine connections and avoid unintentional missteps. Here is what every expat should know before and after arriving.
Philoxenia: The Greek Art of Hospitality
Philoxenia (φιλοξενία) — literally “love of strangers” — is the cornerstone of Greek culture. You will experience it constantly: strangers offering directions, neighbours bringing food, taverna owners sitting down to chat. Do not be surprised if a Greek acquaintance insists on paying for your coffee or lunch — this is not unusual and refusing too firmly can cause awkwardness. Accept graciously and reciprocate when the opportunity arises.
Dining Culture
Food is central to Greek social life. A few key things to know:
- Meal times are late. Greeks typically eat dinner at 21:00–23:00. Restaurants often do not fill up until 21:30. Eating at 19:00 marks you as a tourist.
- Sharing is the norm. Greeks order multiple dishes for the table — mezedes (small plates) — and share everything. Do not expect to order one dish per person at a traditional taverna.
- Tipping: 5–10% is appreciated, not mandatory. Leaving small change on the table or rounding up the bill is the most common approach.
- Coffee culture is serious. The freddo espresso and freddo cappuccino are Greek inventions — iced espresso drinks that have become iconic. Expect to spend 1–2 hours over coffee; this is normal and expected.
- “Yamas!” (Γειά μας!) is the Greek toast — “to our health”. Always make eye contact when clinking glasses.
Greek Orthodox Religion & Holidays
Greece is approximately 90% Greek Orthodox Christian, and religion permeates public life more deeply than in most Western European countries. Key things to know:
- Easter (Πάσχα) is more important than Christmas. The midnight “Christos Anesti” (Christ is Risen) service on Holy Saturday is the most significant moment of the Greek calendar — expect entire cities to go dark then light up with candles.
- Name days (ονομαστικές εορτές) are celebrated as or more than birthdays. If your name corresponds to a saint’s day, Greeks will wish you “Χρόνια Πολλά” (Many Years).
- Church dress code: When visiting Orthodox churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Scarves/shawls are often available at the entrance.
- Public holidays: Greece has 12 national public holidays. Many businesses close. Check the calendar before planning appointments. Learning a few Greek phrases will serve you well on these occasions.
Social Norms & Communication Style
- Greeks are direct and expressive. Conversations can seem loud or heated to Northern European sensibilities — this is usually enthusiasm, not conflict.
- Personal questions are normal. “Are you married?”, “How much do you earn?”, “Why don’t you have children?” are not considered rude — they signal interest and inclusion. Answer as you please; a friendly deflection is always fine.
- Physical contact: Greeks greet with kisses on both cheeks (among friends) or a handshake (more formal). Do not be surprised by physical warmth from relative strangers.
- Time is flexible. “I’ll be there in five minutes” (ερχομαι σε πέντε λεπτά) can mean 20–30 minutes. Build this into your schedule and you will save yourself considerable frustration.
- “Siga siga” (σιγά σιγά) — “slowly slowly” — is a national mantra. Life moves at its own pace. Embrace it.
Business Culture
- Relationships first. Business is built on personal trust. Expect meetings to begin with personal conversation before getting to the point.
- Business hours: Many small businesses close for a long afternoon break (13:00–17:00) and reopen in the evening. This is less common in large cities but still prevalent in smaller towns.
- Bureaucracy: Greek public administration can be slow and document-heavy. Patience and a local accountant or lawyer are essential for navigating it. See our guide on getting your AFM and AMKA.
- Business cards: Still used in more formal or traditional business settings. Accept cards with both hands as a sign of respect.
Language
English is widely spoken in Athens and among younger Greeks across the country — you can live comfortably without speaking Greek. That said, making the effort to learn even basic phrases is deeply appreciated and opens doors. Our guide to 15 essential Greek phrases for expats is a good starting point. The Greek alphabet can be learned in a few hours and makes navigating signs, menus and maps significantly easier.
Do’s and Don’ts
| ✅ Do | ❌ Don’t |
|---|---|
| Accept hospitality graciously | Rush a meal or ask for the bill immediately |
| Learn a few Greek words | Assume everyone speaks English (outside Athens) |
| Dress modestly at churches | Enter a church in shorts or sleeveless tops |
| Engage in conversation enthusiastically | Mistake heated discussion for conflict |
| Bring a small gift when invited home | Arrive precisely on time (this can feel awkward) |
| Compliment the food | Refuse food repeatedly — once is enough |
| Use “parakalo” (please) and “efharisto” (thank you) | Discuss the Greek economy carelessly in company |
Getting Around: Neighbourhoods & Community
Greek neighbourhoods (γειτονιές) have a strong community feel — neighbours know each other, local businesses know their regulars, and the corner kafeneion (coffee shop) is a social institution. Choosing where to live shapes your social experience considerably. Read our guide to the best neighbourhoods in Athens for expats to find your ideal match.
Living in Athens on a comfortable budget is more achievable than most expats expect. See our full cost of living breakdown for Athens 2026 for detailed numbers.
