Money and tipping for your Santorini wedding
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Cash or card?
- Cards and contactless are standard. Since 2024 Greek law has required card machines for more professions, including taxis (To Vima, Dec 2023).
- Cash is still handy for tips, small cafés and some taxis.
- Suppliers must give you a receipt by law (Smartraveller).
Which ATMs should we use?
- Prefer bank ATMs; independent ATMs (for example at airports) can charge more. Expect about €2–4 per withdrawal for foreign cards and limits of around €600 a day.
- Always choose euros when offered conversion to your home currency.
How do we pay our wedding vendors?
- Ask whether VAT is included. Greek VAT is 24%, or 13% for restaurant food and catering; drinks are taxed at 24%. Many wedding quotes are given before tax. Ask for every quote with VAT included, in writing.
- Service charges: venues may add 10–20% on food and drink.
- Bank transfers go to a Greek IBAN in euros.
- Deposits: terms vary; get them and the cancellation policy in writing.
Who do we tip at a Santorini wedding?
No one publishes standard amounts for tipping wedding staff in Santorini. A practical approach:
| Who | Tip? | How |
|---|---|---|
| Venue and catering staff | If no service charge, or exceptional service | One cash envelope for the team via your planner or venue manager |
| Planner | Optional | A thank-you gift, note or review |
| Photographer, hair & makeup | Optional | Cash on the day, or a review and referral |
| Drivers | Common | About €5–10 per trip |
Cash is better than card for tips, so they reach the staff directly.
General tipping in Santorini
- Restaurants: 5–10% if no service charge.
- Porters: €1–2 a bag (€2–5 for steep cave-hotel steps). Housekeeping: €1–2 a day. Taxis: round up.
Sources: Post Office travel money guide; Santorini travel guide (Oct 2026).
Frequently asked questions
Can we pay in pounds or dollars?
Pay in euros; let your card or Wise convert.
Do cave hotels take cards?
Yes, generally. Keep some cash for porters.
Changelog
- : First published.