Gyros - The King of Greek Street Food
Gyros is Greek fast food at its finest: meat from a vertical spit, pita bread, tzatziki and chips. Everything you need to know about ordering, prices and where to find the best ones.
Planning a Greek holiday and wondering what to eat? Gyros is at the top of every list. This classic Greek street food - meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in warm pita bread with tzatziki, tomatoes, onion and chips - combines outstanding taste, honest price and authentic Mediterranean character in a single wrap.
What Is Gyros and How Is It Made?
Gyros (γύρος, from the Greek word for "circle" or "turning") is meat cooked on a vertical spit that rotates slowly. The meat is shaved thin and served in soft pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, red onion and chips. Traditionally pork or chicken, marinated in a mixture of Greek spices - oregano, thyme, garlic and lemon juice - which gives gyros its distinctive aroma.
Gyros Prices in Greece 2026
- Gyros pita (wrap with meat and toppings) - €3–€4
- Gyros plate (meat, pita, salad, chips) - €8–€12
- Meal for two at a souvlatzidiko - €15–€20
The cheapest gyros is found at local souvlatzidika (gyros and souvlaki shops) away from beaches and tourist areas. Tip: ask locals where they eat - that's always the tastiest and cheapest.
Gyros vs. Souvlaki - What's the Difference?
Both are essential Greek eating experiences. Souvlaki is meat grilled on a skewer (separate chunks), while gyros comes from the rotating vertical spit (shaved, thinner texture). Both can be served as a pita wrap or as a plate. On Halkidiki and in most tourist areas you'll find both; prices are similar.
Where to Find the Best Gyros
- Every town has its legendary souvlatzidiko - a local institution that's been operating for decades. Ask at your accommodation.
- Thessaloniki has a particularly strong souvlaki culture - often considered the best in Greece.
- Avoid gyros at tourist-facing beachfront restaurants - opt for the dedicated street-food shops.
- Look for places where the spit is turning constantly and the queue is Greek-speaking.
Ordering Tips
- Specify "me pita" (in pita bread) or "plato" (as a plate)
- "Hirino" = pork, "Kotopoulo" = chicken
- Tzatziki is automatically included; ask for "extra tzatziki" if you want more
- Chips (tiganites patates) are usually included in the wrap
