A TikToker has highlighted a little-known feature of Greek airports: a regulated menu that offers significantly cheaper prices for basic food and drink items. The video, posted by user @zantegeezer, compares prices on the standard café menu with those on the regulated menu, and has sparked surprise among many holidaymakers who were unaware of the option.
Price differences revealed
In the video, the TikToker shows a regulated menu, which the Greek government enforces to provide value-for-money options at airports. He then holds up the café's regular menu, saying: "That's a normal menu. You see the price difference there? I mean, look at the proper espresso you get off the regular menu."
The regular menu lists a single espresso at €4.80 (about £4), while the regulated menu offers the same for €1.80 (around £1.53). A filter coffee costs €4.70 on the regular menu but just €1.60 (about £1.36) on the regulated one. Bottled water in 0.5 or 0.75 litre bottles is available for €0.60 or €0.90, roughly £0.51 and £0.77 respectively.
More bargains on offer
Other items on the regulated menu include a ham and cheese toastie for €1.80, and hot tea for €1.60, compared to €4.00 (about £3.43) on the regular menu. The TikToker concluded: "Just so you know, any airport in Greece you can get cheap stuff by law. Sort it out."
Regulated menus are also available in other locations across Greece, such as ports, ferries, and certain tourist sites with a captive audience. However, the regulated prices apply only to basics like water, coffee, and simple snacks, and establishments only have to offer them on a takeaway basis, meaning they are not obliged to provide seating. Customers will generally be offered Greek brands rather than imported ones.
Reactions from travellers
The video drew many positive comments from people tired of high airport prices, which have come under scrutiny over the summer, from food costs to airport drop-off fees. Some shared their own experiences, with one commenter noting: "Santorini Airport only had €6.50 Evian water on display but they had the cheap Greek stuff when I asked." Another said: "I didn't know! Paid €4 for a bottle of water and €7.90 for a sandwich at Zante airport!"
Several commenters called for similar measures elsewhere, with one saying: "I need to call my representatives for the local and European Parliament. This has to be a European wide directive." Another added: "This is one of the best things about Greek airports. Needs to be made Europe-wide."
