For years, Greece was notorious for high ATM withdrawal fees, often catching foreign visitors off guard. However, reforms introduced at the end of 2025 have completely changed the rules of the game.

In 2026, withdrawing cash in Greece is much cheaper and, in many cases, comparable to costs in other EU countries. Today, taking out cash near the Acropolis, on Crete, or on the Greek islands does not have to mean extra fees. Below is a comprehensive, up-to-date guide for international travelers explaining how ATM withdrawals work in Greece in 2026 and how to avoid leaving unnecessary euros behind.

Banking revolution in Greece: What changed in 2025-2026?

As recently as early 2025, tourists visiting Greece often faced ATM fees of €3-€5 per withdrawal. After strong criticism from residents and travelers alike, Greek authorities introduced strict new regulations. These rules are now fully in force in 2026 and have significantly improved conditions for visitors.

ATM usage in Greece today looks very different from just a year earlier. The new legal framework reshaped cash withdrawals for both locals and foreign cardholders. To understand today’s capped fees and lower costs, it’s worth revisiting what happened in mid-2025.

The trigger: ATMs sold to a private operator

The direct catalyst for reform was a decision by Piraeus Bank to sell around 850 ATMs to an external operator - Cashflex, a company belonging to the Printec Group.

The impact was immediate. Machines that had previously been free for customers with Greek-issued cards began charging €1.50-€2.00 per withdrawal. This affected not only major cities but also small towns and islands, where often only a single ATM was available.

The government responded quickly and decisively. The Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, emphasized in parliament that access to cash must not become a financial trap for citizens or tourists.

The new law, which entered into force on 11 August 2025, introduced:

• the abolition of interbank ATM fees for Greek cards within the DIAS system,

• strict caps on ATM access fees charged by private operators,

• special protection for locations with only one ATM.

Although primarily designed for residents, these reforms now directly benefit foreign visitors traveling to Greece in 2026.

The main banks operating in Greece

The Greek banking system is dominated by four so-called systemic banks:

• National Bank of Greece (NBG)

• Piraeus Bank

• Alpha Bank

• Eurobank

In 2026, these institutions combine basic free services with premium and subscription-based models. This approach also affects how foreign cards are handled, but crucially for travelers, ATM fees charged in Greece are now strictly regulated.

Key ATM changes in Greece (2026)

ATM access fee cap (€1.50 maximum)

The maximum ATM access fee charged by independent operators and by banks when foreign cards are used - is now capped at €1.50 per withdrawal.

Free balance inquiries

Checking your balance at any ATM in Greece is now completely free, regardless of where your card was issued.

“Single ATM” rule

In towns or islands where only one ATM exists, withdrawals for Greek cardholders must be free, and fees charged to tourists are closely monitored and strictly limited.

The real danger in 2026: DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion)

Low or capped ATM fees do not mean you are completely safe from overpaying.

In 2026, the biggest money drain for travelers is Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC).

When you insert a foreign card into a Greek ATM, you may see a message such as:

“Do you want to withdraw €100 converted to your home currency?”

This is the moment when many travelers lose the most money.

What is DCC and why is it a trap?

DCC allows the ATM to convert euros into your home currency instead of letting your own bank handle the exchange.
The exchange rate offered by ATM operators is usually 5-13% worse than the real market rate, and in extreme cases can reach 10-15% loss.

Golden rule for ATM withdrawals in Greece

Always choose:

• “DECLINE CONVERSION”

• “WITHDRAW IN EUR”

• “CONTINUE WITHOUT CONVERSION”

By withdrawing in euros, you allow your bank or financial app to apply its own - usually far better - exchange rate.

Revolut, Wise and ZEN in Greece: 2026 advice

Modern financial apps offer a clear advantage in Greece, but savings depend on understanding their limits.

Revolut

• ATM locator: The app includes a “Find nearby ATMs” feature, helping you avoid machines with extra fees.

• Free withdrawal limits: Monthly free limits apply (e.g. Standard plan). After exceeding them, a 2% fee may apply.

• Weekend withdrawals: Avoid weekends - Revolut applies a small markup when FX markets are closed.

Wise

Wise cards are widely accepted in Greece and offer transparent exchange rates close to the mid-market rate. Always withdraw in EUR and monitor your monthly ATM allowance.

ZEN

• Extra protection: ZEN offers purchase protection and extended warranties, useful for expensive items.

• Cash withdrawals: Higher-tier plans allow generous monthly ATM limits without extra fees.

Practical tip: Regardless of the app you use, always check monthly limits and day-of-week FX rules. In 2026, these details determine the real cost of ATM usage in Greece.

Before you travel: Practical tips

1. Check your home bank’s fees
   Even if Greek ATMs charge little or nothing, your own bank may still apply foreign withdrawal fees.

2. Use multi-currency cards
   Cards from digital banks or multi-currency accounts allow FX conversion close to market rates.

3. Balance checks are free
   Thanks to new regulations, balance inquiries at Greek ATMs are free for everyone.

4. Daily withdrawal limits
   Many Greek ATMs limit withdrawals to around €600 per day for security reasons - plan ahead.

Is cash still necessary in Greece?

By 2026, Greece is increasingly cashless. Even small cafés, local markets, and roadside stalls are legally required to accept card payments via POS terminals.

Still, carrying €50-€100 in cash is advisable for:

• occasional power or internet outages (still common on islands),

• small museums or attractions,

• tips, although card tipping is increasingly accepted.

Bottom line: Cards are sufficient in most situations, but a small cash reserve adds peace of mind, especially outside major cities and during peak summer season.

Greece in 2026 is no longer an expensive destination for ATM withdrawals. With capped fees, free balance checks, and stronger consumer protection, tourists are finally on equal footing. The real savings come from avoiding DCC, choosing the right cards, and understanding limits. Follow these rules, and withdrawing cash in Greece can be just as affordable as anywhere else in Europe.

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