From kalimera to kalispera: useful Greek phrases

Last Updated on August 6, 2025 by Ioana

During my trip to Athens I noticed that making an effort to speak a bit of Greek goes a long way in earning the appreciation of the locals, such that they will show you even more hospitality. And their hospitality is already impeccable even if you don’t speak Greek! So imagine if you learn just how to greet, from kalimera to kalispera, or anything in between. You will be treated like royalty. This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.

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Greece is such a beautiful country, but besides the beaches and the rich history, what makes it even more beautiful is the people. The Greeks are some of the most warm people I have ever met. They are so friendly and welcoming towards visitors! No wonder Greece is such a popular travel destination.

While English is widely spoken in Athens, taking the time to learn a few words in the local language can be a gesture of respect and a demonstration of your commitment to embracing the culture of the country you’re exploring. Google translate is my best friend when traveling.

In case you’re planning a trip to Greece, here are six essential Greek words to know:

From kalimera to kalispera: useful Greek phrases

1. Kalimera

• Meaning: Good morning.
• Pronunciation: kah – lee – meh – rah.
• Usage: Appropriate until noon.

2. Kalispera

• Meaning: Good afternoon.
• Pronunciation: kah – lee – speh – rah.
• Usage: Typically used in the evening.

3. Yasas

• Meaning: Hello.
• Pronunciation: yeah – sahs.
• Usage: Suitable throughout the day.

4. Yasou

• Meaning: Hello (informal).
• Pronunciation: yeah – sou.
• Usage: Can only be used with friends or acquaintances since it’s an informal greeting.

5. Efcharisto

• Meaning: Thank you.
• Pronunciation: ehf – ha – rees – toh.
• Usage: Handy for expressing gratitude, especially in restaurants or souvenir shops.

6. Parakalo

• Meaning: Please / You are welcome.
• Pronunciation: pah – rah – kah – loh.
• Usage: Versatile word used for both making requests and responding to expressions of gratitude.

For my next visit I will try to expand my Greek vocabulary to include a few phrases like “How much does it cost?” or “How can I get to X?”, but even knowing just these 6 words will be highly appreciated in Athens.

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Heading to Greece soon? Check out my other articles on Athens:

Athens 4 day itinerary: ultimate guide for your first visit

What I ate under 5 dollars in Athens