Some Basic Greek Language Greetings you should know before visiting Greece

Greek people are always impressed when they meet a tourist that can greet them in their own language and is able to maintain a basic conversation in Greek. I remember when I was in Piraeus – Greece, I got lost on my way back to the main cruise port. I met some soldiers who had a very serious demeanour, but when I greeted them in Greek they ALL smiled from the bottom of their heart and were surprised that I spoke some Greek. After greeting them in their own language they walked with me and guided me in the right direction back to the cruise terminal. I don’t think that I would have had the opportunity to interact with these soldiers if I had not been able to speak a little bit of Greek. 

If you are planning to visit Greece or are already in Greece for vacation, you do not need to know many words to impress the locals. Even though you know only basic Greek greetings it is enough to impress the locals and make connections with them. 

In Greek, “Καλημέρα” (Kalimera) is a common way to say “Good morning” and is used from around 5 am until noon. It’s a versatile greeting that can be used in many different contexts, from greeting friends and family to colleagues and coworkers. 

The phrase “Καλημέρα” is pronounced “ka-lee-MER-ah” and is also commonly used in more formal situations, such as when addressing someone whom you don’t know very well, or in a professional setting. It’s also a common greeting when entering a store or other business, as a way of acknowledging the staff and starting the day on a positive note.

The above picture is a  visual guide that shows the time frame during which “Καλημέρα” is typically used. This can be helpful for those who are learning Greek and are still getting used to the language and its customs. By having a clear understanding of when to use “Καλημέρα” and other common phrases, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships with Greek speakers.

 The phrase “Καλησπέρα” pronounced “ka-lee-SPEAR-ah” is a Greek word that means “Good Afternoon” usually used from noon to 8 or 9 pm. It is also a great way to impress the Greek people when you greet them using it the right way and at the proper time. As a result they may jokingly say to others that you speak fluently, and those who listen in will also be impressed. 

You can use it with anyone whether they are friends or people you meet for the first time. 

The above picture is a visual aid that can help Greek learners retain the information better, as it shows the right time to use kalimera and the image connected to it is a motivation for the learners to retain the word easily. 

The phrase “Καλό απόγευμα (Kalo apogevma) pronounced “ka-loh – apo – gev – ma” means  “have a good afternoon”. It is used from 3 pm until 7 pm. It is used at the end of a conversation as a way of parting company. However, to greet someone from 3 pm to 7 pm- it is more proper  to say ‘’ “Καλησπέρα”

Look at the  picture and the Greek and English text as you meditate on the scene. This will make it an interactive self learning experience to help  retain the words.

If you practice lots you will be able to sound like a native – the locals will be extremely impressed if you say it with a clear  pronunciation, and as a result they will appreciate you more because they are known as being very hospitable and open hearted which will create a memorable experience for you while visiting Greece.  

The phrase Καλό βράδυ (Kalo vradi) pronounced “ka-loh -VRAD-ee” means have a good evening. It is used from 7pm until 11 pm – you can only use this to end a conversation as it indicates a parting of company. 

If you greet someone with Καλό βράδυ in the evening they will respond in kind. Don’t be afraid to try the Greek Language, Greek people are very kind, and you may be surprised at how positive their reaction is. All you have to do is try.  

The pronunciation is very easy as shown in the picture above. As you look at the photo try to imagine it as a real scene and visualize it as if you were in Greece. This can help to grasp and memorize the word. 

From 10 pm to 1 am you can use the Greek saying Καληνύχτα (Kali Nichta) pronounced “Kali nik ta”  is the Greek phrase for “Have a good night.” It is commonly used to bid farewell before going to bed or to wish someone a good night’s rest – It is used at the end of the conversation.

We say  ’Καλό μεσημέρι ‘’Kalo mesimeri ‘’ pronounced “ka-loh-messy-merri ”  which means ‘’ have a good afternoon .‘’ during the early afternoon from 12 am to 3 pm. It is always used at the end of a conversation.

*This word can be used with anyone – it is, however, formal. Greeks do not tend to use it much. They prefer the more time directed phrases outlined above. 

Greek Glossary

Γεια (ya) = hello

Is a simple and informal way to greet someone. It’s equivalent to saying “hi” in English.

Γεια σου (ya sou) = hello (to one person)

Is used to greet one person informally. It’s equivalent to saying “hi there” or “hello there” in English.

Γεια σας (ya sas) = hello 

Is used to greet many people or one person, in an extra polite way or in a formal setting, such as in a business or professional contexts. 

Χαίρετε (hair ete) = hello (formal)

Is also a formal way to say hello. It’s often used in more official or ceremonial contexts, such as at a meeting or an event.

Τι κάνεις; (tikanis?):  How are you?/ What are you doing?

This phrase is commonly used in informal situations when you want to ask someone how they’re doing or what they’re up to. It is usually used with friends, family members, or acquaintances.

Tι κάνετε; (ti kan ete?): How are you? {to many persons or to one person (formal)}

This phrase is used in formal situations when addressing one person or a group of people. It is more polite and respectful than the informal version and is often used in business or professional settings.

The Greek phrase “Είμαι καλά, ευχαριστώ! (ime kala, efharisto)” means “I’m fine, thank you!” It is a common response to the question “Τι κάνεις; (tikanis?)” which means “How are you?/What are you doing?” 

This phrase is a polite way to express that one is doing well and is appreciative of the inquiry. In social situations, it is considered polite to respond positively, even if one is not feeling well.

{to many persons or to one person (formal)}

The Greek phrase “Πώς λέγεστε; (pos legeste?)” is a formal way of asking “What’s your name?”
 It is used when addressing someone formally or when talking to a group of people. 

The word “πώς” (pos) means “how,” “λέγεστε” (legeste) means “you are called,” and the question mark at the end indicates that it’s a question.

“Με λένε….” (meh lene) is a common Greek phrase used to introduce oneself and means “my name is…”. After this phrase, the speaker usually adds their name.

This phrase is often used in formal and informal settings, such as when meeting new people or in business situations.

The Greek phrase Χαίρω πολύ (hero polii) translates to “nice to meet you”. This phrase is commonly used as a polite way to greet someone for the first time or in a formal setting. 

So when meeting someone new in Greece, it is common to say :Χαίρω πολύ” after introducing yourself. 

There are other ways to say nice to meet you in Greece, I will provide more details in the upcoming article.      

Αντιο ( adio) is a Greek word that means – Goodbye in English. It is used at the end of a conversation. 

It is a polite and formal way you can use with anyone you encounter and at any time, to express hospitality to the one you encountered.

The pronunciation is similar to Spanish – Spanish speakers may find it very easy to pronounce and fun to pronounce.     

Looking for the best deals and unique finds? Look no further! Check out eBay’s incredible selection of products and discover a treasure trove of possibilities. As an eBay affiliate, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through the links on this blog, but rest assured, this doesn’t affect the price you pay. By clicking on these links, you’ll not only snag fantastic deals but also support my website, allowing me to continue bringing you valuable content. So, why wait? Start exploring eBay’s vast marketplace today and be amazed by the incredible deals waiting for you. Happy shopping!               

Benefit you will get by learning basic words

Take time every day to learn the above Greek basic words before your trip to Greece and practice them while you are in Greece. Remember that each word has its pronunciation in parenthesis, which will help you to learn the words. By doing so you will get great benefits – you will be able to impress the Greek people and have a memorable experience during your stay in Greece. 

Read More

 “The 4 Best Free Voice Translation Apps For Your Travels” 

Note: In the next article, we will discuss additional words and expressions to use in transportation, dining and shopping during your stay in Greece. 

I have partnered with Booking.com. I use Booking.com for all of my bookings, and I have always been happy with the service. They have a wide variety of accommodations to choose from, and their prices are very competitive.

I hope you will consider using my affiliate link to book your next stay. It’s a great way to support my blog.

Thank you for your support!