Temporary Accommodation in Greece Overview
For foreign nationals arriving in Greece, securing temporary accommodation is a critical first step before committing to a long-term lease. The Greek housing market for short-term stays is highly seasonal, with availability and pricing fluctuating significantly between the high season (May to September) and the low season (October to April). Temporary options range from standard hotels to specialized serviced apartments designed for digital nomads and professionals.
As of 2025, the Greek government has implemented stricter regulations on short-term rentals to balance the housing market in urban centers like Athens and Thessaloniki. It is essential for arrivals to understand the legal distinctions between types of accommodation and the associated fees that apply to foreign residents.
Types of Temporary Accommodation
Short-term Rentals and Platforms
Platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are the most common resources for temporary stays. In Greece, these properties must be registered in the Short-Term Residential Rental Registry and display a unique registration number (AMA). Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in Athens city center typically range from 50 EUR ($54 USD, Jan 2026) to 120 EUR ($130 USD, Jan 2026) per night, depending on the season and neighborhood.
Serviced Apartments and Aparthotels
Serviced apartments offer a middle ground between hotels and private rentals, providing kitchen facilities and cleaning services. These are increasingly popular among "Digital Nomad Visa" holders and corporate relocations. Monthly rates for serviced studios in 2026 average between 1,200 EUR ($1,296 USD, Jan 2026) and 2,000 EUR ($2,160 USD, Jan 2026). These units often include utilities and high-speed internet in the total price, which simplifies administrative tasks for new arrivals.
Hostels and Budget Stays
For those seeking low-cost entry, hostels are concentrated in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. A bed in a dormitory room costs approximately 20 EUR ($22 USD, Jan 2026) to 35 EUR ($38 USD, Jan 2026) per night. While cost-effective, these do not provide the "Proof of Address" often required for opening a Greek bank account or obtaining a Tax Identification Number (AFM).
Legal Fees and Administrative Requirements
Climate Crisis Resilience Fee
Effective from 2024 and continuing through 2025/2026, all temporary accommodation guests in Greece must pay a "Climate Crisis Resilience Fee." This fee replaced the previous stay tax and is charged per night, per room. The rates vary by the type of accommodation and the time of year:
- March to October: 1.50 EUR ($1.62 USD, Jan 2026) for apartments/1-2 star hotels; up to 10.00 EUR ($10.80 USD, Jan 2026) for 5-star hotels.
- November to February: 0.50 EUR ($0.54 USD, Jan 2026) for apartments/1-2 star hotels; up to 4.00 EUR ($4.32 USD, Jan 2026) for 5-star hotels.
Documentation for Foreigners
When staying in temporary accommodation, foreign nationals are usually required to present a valid passport or EU ID card. For those arriving on a national visa (D-Visa) who intend to apply for a residence permit, a temporary booking confirmation may be used as initial contact info, but a formal lease agreement (registered via the AADE MyAADE portal) will eventually be required for permanent residency applications.
Practical Steps for Securing Accommodation
To ensure a smooth transition, foreigners are advised to follow these steps when booking temporary housing in Greece:
- Verify the AMA Number: Ensure any private rental listing displays its official registration number to avoid illegal or "ghost" rentals.
- Location Connectivity: If relying on public transport, prioritize areas near the Metro (Athens) or major bus arteries (Thessaloniki), as traffic congestion is high.
- Internet Speed: For remote workers, verify the "VDSL" or "Fiber" availability with the host, as internet speeds can vary significantly in older buildings.
- Payment Methods: While cards are widely accepted, some smaller boutique stays may prefer bank transfers for longer "temporary" stays (e.g., 1-3 months).
For more official information on tourist and short-term accommodation standards, visitors can refer to the Ministry of Tourism website.