Wherever you go, nothing makes your travels easier than knowing a few words in the local language. In Greece, even a few words will warm your welcome and may even inspire a lasting friendship. Fortunately, if you’re planning a trip to Greece this year, it takes only a few minutes to learn some basic Greek phrases that will help you navigate this beautiful European country.

From saying good morning, good afternoon, and good night (kalimera, kalispera, and kalinikta) to simply greeting with hello in Greek (yia sas or yiassou), these common phrases should help facilitate your international travels. Residents will appreciate your effort in learning their language, making them more likely to assist you.

Although Greek is the primary language of Greece, many residents also speak English, German, and French. Consequently, if you start with a Greek hello, you may quickly admit that your Greek isn’t great and ask if the person speaks another language. This respect for culture is the first step in immersing yourself fully in Greek life on your vacation.

Common Greek Phrases

Greek citizens greet one another differently depending on the time of day. In the morning, tourists can say kalimera (kah-lee-MARE-ah). In the afternoon, kalomesimeri (kah-lo-messy-mary) might be used, though it is rarely heard, and kalimera can serve both times of the day. However, kalispera (kah-lee-spare-ah) means “good evening” while kalinikta (kah-lee-neek-tah) means “good night,” thus using these specific terms is appropriate.

On the other hand, “Hello” can be said at any time with yai sas, yiassou, gaisou, or yasou (all pronounced yah-sooo); this word can also be used for parting or as a toast. However, yia sas is more respectful and should be used with seniors and for extra politeness.

When asking for something in Greece, remember to say please by saying parakaló (par-ah-kah-LO). This can also mean “huh” or serve as a shortened version of “please repeat that” or “I beg your pardon.” Once you receive something, you can then express gratitude by saying efkharistó (eff-car-ee-STOH). If you have trouble pronouncing this, just remember “If car I stole” but drop the last “le.”

When inquiring for directions, look out for dexiá (decks-yah) for “right” and aristerá (ar-ee-stare-ah) for “left.” However, if you need to affirm “you’re right” as a general expression, say entáksi (en-tohk-see). When asking for directions, you can phrase it as “where is—” with “Pou ine?” (poo-eeneh).

Now it’s time to say goodbye! Antío sas (an-tyoh sahs) or simply antío can be used interchangeably, much like adios in Spanish, to mean a form of goodbye!

Other Tips and Common Errors

It’s important to not confuse “yes” and “no” in Greek—yes is né, which might sound similar to ‘no’ or ‘nah’ to English speakers, while no is ókhi or ochi, which can sound like “okay” to English speakers. In some areas, it’s pronounced more softly, like oh-shee.

Avoid relying solely on your understanding of spoken directions. A good map is essential as a visual aid when asking for assistance. Ensure your informant knows where you are to start! Most maps in Greece display both Western letters and Greek letters, making it easier for anyone helping you to understand.

Greek is an inflected language, meaning the tone and accent of the words change their meanings. If you mispronounce something, many Greeks might not understand what you meant—they’re not being difficult; rather, they do not mentally classify their words as you might.

If you’re struggling to communicate, try emphasizing a different syllable and have key directions and names written down whenever possible.