Using foreign bank cards

Belarusian bank cards, including Visa and Mastercard, can potentially be used in Greece, but their acceptance varies. While some travelers report successful transactions in shops, tavernas, and gas stations, others find Mastercard less reliable than Visa, particularly on islands. Specific card types, such as Visa from MT Bank or Techno, have been reported to work. However, it is strongly recommended to carry sufficient cash as a backup, as card acceptance is not guaranteed, and terminals may occasionally be non-functional.

Credit cards like Visa or Mastercard denominated in US dollars can be used in Greece. Transactions will be converted to Euros at the prevailing exchange rate. While it's generally advisable to carry Euros in cash, card payments are accepted. Exchange rates, particularly cross-currency rates, might not always be the most favorable compared to using local currency.

Russian citizens may encounter difficulties paying for Greek accommodations through platforms like Airbnb using Russian-issued credit cards. This is often due to geo-restrictions. Using a VPN and potentially creating a new account or waiting 24 hours after enabling a VPN might resolve payment issues. The card itself might not be the issue, but rather the account's origin and access method.

For Russian citizens planning to use cards in Greece: - **UnionPay:** Does not work in Greece. It functions primarily in Turkey and Northern Cyprus. - **Other Russian Cards:** Cards issued by Russian banks (Visa, Mastercard) are generally not accepted. - **Foreign Bank Cards:** Only cards issued by banks outside of Russia are likely to be accepted. Even cards from some neighboring countries might not function. - **Recommendation:** Carry sufficient cash or ensure you have a working card issued by a non-Russian bank.

UnionPay cards have limited acceptance in Greece. Payments are possible in some restaurants and shops, and cash withdrawals are available at select ATMs (e.g., Piraeus Bank). Cards from Solidarity Bank and RSFB are reported to work, while those from Post Bank are often non-functional. Ensure you have alternative payment methods.

Car rental payments in Greece are not exclusively limited to credit cards. On islands like Milos and Sifnos, local rental agencies may accept cash payments. This provides an alternative for travelers who prefer not to use credit cards or wish to avoid large deposit holds.

In Greece, cash withdrawal may not be available for certain purchases. However, funds can typically be used for groceries and other essentials, but not for entertainment. Services like 'Trip.com' and 'Aviasales' can be used for booking flights and accommodation.

Regarding ATM availability for contactless withdrawals (Google Pay, Samsung Pay) in Santorini and Mykonos, Greece: Given their status as major tourist destinations, it is highly probable that ATMs supporting NFC withdrawals exist. However, direct confirmation of specific ATM locations and functionality is recommended upon arrival.

For travelers from Belarus planning to use their bank cards in Greece: Status Bank cards have shown good usability, working in about 99% of shops and cafes, with occasional issues at very small stores or specific vending machines. Mastercard MTBank also reported good performance in May, with minor issues at some retail outlets like Adidas. Confirm whether your card is physical or linked to mobile payment services like Apple Pay, as physical cards generally have broader acceptance.

Belarusian Alpha Bank cards are generally not functioning in Greece (e.g., Crete stores and cafes). Reports indicate this issue has persisted since at least April. Any instances of successful transactions are considered isolated, and travelers should not rely on these cards for payments in Greece.

While Greek law mandates that merchants accept cards, cash remains highly preferred by small businesses and for public transport. Card payments are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and large shops. For car rentals and remote island transport (like buses), carrying cash is essential. Merchants sometimes offer small discounts for cash payments in minor local shops.