I was traveling with a guide who knew Greek and had visited Mt. Athos at least tens of times. It was very valuable as he knew monks from different monasteries a

I was traveling with a guide who knew Greek and had visited Mt. Athos at least tens of times. It was very valuable as he knew monks from different monasteries and arranged visas and accommodations. But during my trip I also met few travellers who had arranged everything themselves and didn't speak any Greek. You can stay at a monastery one night without a charge, meals included but I think it's suggested that you book it in advance because some monasteries have limited capacity for pilgrims.