How should newcomers find short-term housing in Greece in 2026?

Aparthotels and serviced flats in Athens, Thessaloniki, and larger Crete towns sell weekly or monthly rates with a kitchenette. They are expensive versus a lease, yet they often accept passport and card without a Greek guarantor. Corporate housing operators lease by the month to relocating staff; ask whether utilities, Wi-Fi, cleaning, and VAT are included so nightly rates compare honestly.

Platform stays can work for a bridge when the listing is lawful and you can verify the street address. Central stock in Athens and island hubs faces tourist pressure; a cancelled illegal listing mid-move is a budget shock. Confirm host identity and exact door access before paying: Avoid rental scams.

Furnished month stays and corporate lets can bridge longer gaps. Clarify who holds the deposit and whether the owner will file an AADE rental statement if you need address proof for banks or AMKA: Open a bank account and Paperwork after moving.

Treat the first weeks as a viewing calendar, not a holiday. Get an AFM and TAXISnet early so you can accept a landlord’s AADE declaration the week you find a flat: How to rent a home. Compare furnished versus empty stock: Furnished rentals. Island summers inflate short lets far above winter resident rents in Crete: Rent in Greece.