Mykonos Currency: Euros, ATMs and Money Tips

If you're heading to Mykonos, the short answer on mykonos currency is simple: it's the Euro, same as everywhere else in Greece. But knowing that is just the starting point. Mykonos is one of the most expensive Greek islands — arguably the priciest — so how you manage your money there matters more than on most destinations. Whether you're planning to pay by card, hit an ATM, or sort out currency exchange before you arrive, here's everything you need to know about money in Mykonos.

Using Euros in Mykonos

The currency in Mykonos is the Euro (EUR, symbol €), as it is throughout Greece and the wider Eurozone. Greece adopted the Euro in 2002, so there's no legacy local currency to worry about. The Euro is the only accepted currency — you won't be able to pay in US dollars, British pounds, or any other foreign currency at shops, restaurants, or hotels.

Euro banknotes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. In practice, €50 and €100 notes are the most commonly used for larger purchases. Coins run from 1 cent up to €2. It's worth having a mix of notes — some beach bars and small local spots can struggle to make change for a €100 note, especially early in the day.

If you're arriving from outside the Eurozone, make sure you've converted your money before or shortly after arriving. Don't assume you can pay in anything other than Euros.

Cash vs Cards in Mykonos

Mykonos is a high-end destination that caters to international visitors, and card payments are very widely accepted across the island. Upscale restaurants, hotels, boutiques, larger beach clubs, and most tour operators will take Visa, Mastercard, and often American Express without any issue. Contactless payments are common too.

That said, cash still has its place. Smaller tavernas, family-run kiosks, some beach bars, and local markets may prefer cash — or in some cases only accept it. Tipping is also handled in cash almost universally. If you're planning a day at a quieter beach or exploring outside Mykonos Town, having a reasonable amount of cash on you is sensible.

One thing to be aware of: Mykonos is significantly more expensive than most other Greek islands. Cocktails at a beach club, a meal at a decent restaurant, even a sun lounger rental can all cost noticeably more than you'd pay in Santorini, Rhodes, or Crete. Budget accordingly — this is not the island to arrive with only €50 in your pocket and assume you'll sort the rest out later.

ATMs and Banks in Mykonos

ATMs are available in Mykonos and you won't have trouble finding them if you know where to look. The main concentration is in Mykonos Town (Chora), particularly around the main square and the waterfront. There are also ATMs at the port (Old Port and New Port) and near the airport, which is useful if you want to withdraw cash as soon as you land.

Most ATMs on the island belong to Greek banks — Alpha Bank, Eurobank, Piraeus Bank, and National Bank of Greece are the common ones. Foreign cards (including Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro) work fine at these machines.

ATM fees for foreign cards typically run around €2.60 per withdrawal, charged by the Greek bank on top of whatever your own bank charges. To keep fees manageable, withdraw larger amounts less frequently rather than making multiple small withdrawals. If your bank charges a flat fee per transaction, this approach saves you money quickly.

One important note: if an ATM asks whether you want to complete the transaction "with conversion" (in your home currency) or "without conversion" (in Euros), always choose without conversion — in Euros. The "with conversion" option uses the ATM's own exchange rate, which is typically poor. Let your own bank handle the conversion.

Outside Mykonos Town, ATMs become scarcer. In Ano Mera, the island's second main village, there are fewer options. If you're planning to spend time there or at more remote beaches, stock up on cash in Chora before heading out.

Currency Exchange in Mykonos

Currency exchange offices do exist in Mykonos, primarily in Mykonos Town. They can convert major foreign currencies (USD, GBP, CHF, etc.) into Euros. However, the rates at exchange offices are rarely competitive — you'll typically get a worse rate than using an ATM, and some offices also charge commission on top.

For most visitors, the better approach is either to bring Euros from home (converted at a bank or specialist exchange service before you travel) or to use ATMs on arrival. If you do need to use an exchange office, compare a couple before committing and check whether the displayed rate includes commission or not.

A genuinely good option worth considering: travel money cards like Wise or Revolut. These allow you to hold Euros (or convert at close to the mid-market rate) and spend or withdraw with low or no fees. If you travel frequently, setting one up before your trip is worth the ten minutes it takes. They're accepted wherever Visa or Mastercard are, and ATM withdrawals within their free limits beat most bank cards on fees.

Tips for Managing Money in Mykonos

• Bring Euros if you can. Arriving with a sensible amount of cash already sorted saves you the hassle of hunting for an ATM the moment you land.
• Use ATMs in Mykonos Town. That's where the most reliable machines are. Don't leave it until you're at a remote beach to realise you've run out of cash.
• Always decline dynamic currency conversion. When an ATM or card terminal offers to charge you in your home currency, say no. Always pay in Euros.
• Withdraw larger amounts less often. ATM fees are per transaction. One €200 withdrawal costs less in fees than four €50 withdrawals.
• Carry some cash for tips and small purchases. Tips are almost always given in cash in Greece, and smaller establishments often prefer it.
• Budget for the Mykonos premium. Seriously — this island is expensive. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant, a few drinks, and a sunbed can easily add up to €150-200 in a day without trying. Plan your budget with that in mind.

Money in Mykonos FAQ

What currency does Mykonos use?

Mykonos uses the Euro (EUR). Greece is part of the Eurozone, so the Euro is the only accepted currency across the island. No other currency is accepted for payment.

Can you pay by card in Mykonos?

Yes, cards are widely accepted in Mykonos. Most restaurants, hotels, shops, and beach clubs take Visa and Mastercard, and many accept American Express. Contactless payments are common. That said, some smaller tavernas, beach bars, and market stalls are cash-only, so it's worth keeping some Euros on you.

Are things expensive in Mykonos?

Yes, Mykonos is one of the most expensive destinations in Greece — and expensive by European standards more broadly. Food, drinks, accommodation, and activities all carry a premium compared to other Greek islands. Budget significantly more than you would for, say, Crete or Rhodes.

Where can I withdraw money in Mykonos?

The best place to withdraw cash is Mykonos Town (Chora), where there are several ATMs from major Greek banks. There are also ATMs at the port and near the airport. ATM fees for foreign cards are typically around €2.60 per withdrawal, so withdraw larger amounts to keep costs down. Ano Mera has fewer ATM options.

Should I bring cash to Mykonos?

It's sensible to arrive with some Euros already on you, but you don't need to bring huge amounts — ATMs in Mykonos Town are accessible and reliable. Aim for enough to cover your first day comfortably (transport, a meal, tips) and then use ATMs as needed. Avoid exchange offices unless you have no other option, as the rates are generally poor.