Language
The official language is Greek (Modern Greek / Nea Ellinika) — with its own alphabet, which may seem intimidating at first glance but can be quickly deciphered with a little practice.
Communication in English
English is spoken almost everywhere in Greece — especially by the younger generation (under 40) and throughout the tourism sector. In hotels, restaurants, ferry offices, and museums, you can get by easily with English. It may be more challenging in the countryside and with older Greeks.
German in Greece
German is the second most common foreign language in Greece. On Crete and Corfu, surprisingly many people speak German — often due to work in Germany or German tourists. In tourist areas, you often find German-language menus.
Why a Few Words in Greek are Worth Gold
Greeks are delighted when tourists say even just "Kalimera" (Good morning) or "Efcharisto" (Thank you). It opens doors, brings smiles, and sometimes gets you a free dessert in the tavern. It's no exaggeration: even a clumsy "Kalispera" is met with genuine joy.
The 10 Most Important Words
| Greek | German | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Kalimera | Good morning | ka-li-ME-ra |
| Kalispera | Good evening | ka-li-SPE-ra |
| Yiassou | Hello / Goodbye | JA-su |
| Efcharisto | Thank you | ef-cha-ri-STO |
| Parakalo | Please | pa-ra-ka-LO |
| Nai | Yes | neh |
| Ochi | No | O-chi |
| Signomi | Sorry | sig-NO-mi |
| Poso kani? | How much is it? | PO-so KA-ni |
| Yiamas! | Cheers! | JA-mas |
More vocabulary and pronunciation rules can be found in the language guide (next chapter).