What is the best way to pay with or exchange euros for my trip?

As far as getting euros in Greece, here are our best recommendations—as well as a couple of things to avoid: Recommended:

1. Use a credit card: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Greece (American Express is much less common). Credit cards typically offer the best exchange rate, so it’s ideal to use them whenever possible.
2. Withdraw cash from an ATM in Greece: This is your next best option. If the ATM asks whether you'd like to be charged in your home currency or in euros, always choose euros (i.e., your bank’s rate), as it usually offers a much better exchange rate. *If it's an option it can be helpful to let your bank know you're traveling to Greece (you can usually do this online).

Not Recommended:

• Avoid using U.S. dollars at exchange booths in Greece: They tend to offer very poor rates.
• No need to exchange money before you arrive: You’ll often get a worse rate, and there’s no real need to carry a lot of cash while traveling, as ATMs are easy to find and cards are widely accepted.