Greece is one of Europe’s most attractive places to live: a mild climate, a relaxed pace of life, great food, and a cost of living that is friendly compared with much of Western Europe. Every year more expats, remote workers, retirees, and digital nomads decide to stay for months or longer. The first practical question is always the same: how do you rent an apartment in Greece as a foreigner?
This guide walks you through the whole process, from choosing a rental type to signing a contract and moving in. It covers the paperwork, typical costs, common pitfalls, and local tips for Athens and Kalamata.
1. Choose the Right Type of Rental in Greece
Before you search, decide what kind of rental fits your plans. In Greece there are three main options:
Short-term rentals (under 1 month): Holiday-style stays, usually priced per night. Convenient for arrival, but expensive for anything longer than a few weeks.
Mid-term / monthly rentals (1 to 11 months): Ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, and expats testing out life in Greece. These are usually furnished apartments with utilities and internet arranged, and the terms are flexible. This is the sweet spot for newcomers.
Long-term rentals (12 months or more): The traditional Greek lease. Often unfurnished or partly furnished, with lower monthly rent but a longer commitment. Best once you know where you want to settle.
Tip: If you are new to the country, start with a furnished monthly rental for 1 to 3 months. This lets you get to know neighborhoods in person before committing to a long lease.
2. Decide Where to Live: Athens vs. Kalamata
Location shapes your budget and lifestyle more than anything else.
Renting an apartment in Athens
Athens is the capital: big, historic, and full of energy. You get international flights, metro and tram connections, coworking spaces, and a large expat community. Popular areas for foreigners include Koukaki, Pangrati, Kolonaki, Plaka, Exarchia, and Glyfada on the coast. Expect higher rents here, especially near the Acropolis and the city center.
Renting an apartment in Kalamata
Kalamata, in the southern Peloponnese, offers sea, mountains, olive groves, and a slower lifestyle. It has a seafront promenade, an international airport, good restaurants, and lower rents than the capital. It is increasingly popular with expats and remote workers who want a calmer base without giving up city comforts.
3. Documents You Need to Rent in Greece
Landlords in Greece usually ask for a standard set of documents. Have these ready before you start viewing apartments:
- Passport or EU ID card
- AFM (Greek tax identification number): essential. A Greek rental contract must be registered with the tax authority, so both tenant and landlord need an AFM.
- Proof of income or funds: employment contract, freelance invoices, or bank statements
- Greek bank account details (IBAN): useful for paying rent, though not always required for short stays
- Residence or visa documents (for non-EU citizens), where relevant
How to get an AFM as a foreigner
You can apply at a local tax office (DOY) in person, or through a lawyer, accountant, or authorized representative if you are not yet in the country. Many expats arrange this before arrival so they are ready to sign a lease quickly.
4. Where to Find Apartments for Rent in Greece
There are several ways to search:
- Direct-with-host platforms: Platforms like NomadHomeGR connect renters directly with local homeowners, with no booking fees or rental commissions, so you can agree on rent, deposit, and check-in details yourself.
- Greek real estate portals: Popular local listing sites carry many long-term rentals (listings are often in Greek).
- Real estate agents: Common in Greece. Agents usually charge a fee, often around one month’s rent, so ask about it upfront.
- Facebook groups and expat communities: Useful for tips and leads, but always verify listings carefully.
- Local walk-around: In smaller cities like Kalamata, “Ενοικιάζεται” (For Rent) signs are still common.
5. How Much Does It Cost to Rent in Greece?
Prices vary by city, neighborhood, season, and whether the apartment is furnished. As a rough guide for a furnished one-bedroom:
| Location | Typical monthly range (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Athens (central areas) | €600 – €1,100+ |
| Athens (outer neighborhoods) | €450 – €750 |
| Kalamata | €400 – €650 |
These figures are indicative only and change with demand, location, and season. Always compare several listings.
Other costs to budget for:
- Security deposit: commonly one to two months’ rent
- Utilities: electricity, water, gas or heating oil, and internet, either included or billed separately
- Agent fee: if you use one
- Municipal fees and building common charges (κοινόχρηστα): often paid by the tenant in long-term rentals
6. Understanding the Greek Rental Contract
A proper rental agreement protects both sides. Check these points before you sign:
- Names and AFM numbers of landlord and tenant
- Property address and description
- Rent amount, due date, and payment method
- Lease length and renewal terms
- Deposit amount and conditions for its return
- Who pays utilities and building charges
- Notice period for ending the lease
- Registration: long-term leases must be declared electronically to the Greek tax authority (via the myPROPERTY / Tax Registry platform). Ask your landlord to confirm it has been registered.
Tip: If the contract is only in Greek, get a bilingual version or have it translated before you sign.
7. How to Avoid Rental Scams in Greece
Rental fraud exists everywhere, and international renters can be targeted. Protect yourself:
- Never pay a deposit before seeing the apartment in person or via a live video tour
- Be suspicious of prices that are far below market value
- Ask for proof of ownership or authorization to rent
- Avoid wire transfers to unknown third parties and unusual payment methods
- Make sure you get a written contract and a receipt for every payment
- Read the platform’s safety guidance before you commit
8. Step-by-Step: Renting Your First Apartment in Greece
- Define your budget, length of stay, and preferred city.
- Get your AFM (or arrange it through a representative).
- Shortlist furnished apartments that fit your needs: Wi-Fi, workspace, air conditioning, and heating.
- Contact hosts directly and ask about availability, monthly rent, deposit, and what utilities include.
- View the apartment in person or by live video.
- Review and sign a written contract.
- Pay the deposit and first month by traceable bank transfer and keep receipts.
- Do a check-in inventory with photos of the apartment’s condition.
- Set up utilities and internet if they are not included.
- Register your address where required for residence or tax purposes.
9. Practical Tips for Expats Renting in Greece
- Check heating and cooling. Greek winters can be cold indoors and summers hot. Air conditioning and efficient heating matter.
- Ask about internet speed. Remote workers should confirm fiber or reliable broadband.
- Check the floor and elevator. Older buildings often have no lift.
- Understand the building. Ask about noise, neighbors, and parking.
- Negotiate for longer stays. Many hosts offer better monthly rates for 3+ months.
- Learn a few Greek phrases. Landlords and neighbors appreciate it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners rent an apartment in Greece?
Yes. Foreigners can rent property in Greece on the same basis as locals. You will generally need an AFM tax number and a valid ID or passport.
Do I need a Greek bank account to rent?
Not always. Some hosts accept international transfers, but having a Greek IBAN makes recurring payments easier, especially for longer leases.
How much deposit is normal in Greece?
Commonly one to two months’ rent, though this varies by landlord and lease type.
Are there monthly furnished rentals for digital nomads in Greece?
Yes. Furnished mid-term rentals of one to several months are widely available in Athens, Kalamata, and other popular destinations.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not required for simple rentals, but a lawyer or accountant can be helpful for your AFM, for reviewing a contract, or for longer leases.
Ready to Find Your Home in Greece?
Whether you want a city apartment in Athens or a relaxed base in Kalamata, NomadHomeGR connects you directly with local hosts, with no booking fees and no rental commissions. Browse furnished apartments for rent in Greece, learn how it works, and find a home that fits your lifestyle.