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A Gallery Walk in Thissio and Petralona

Where to experience lgbt+ culture in athens, 6 unusual sights in athens worth a detour, from artefacts to art: 6 fine museum shops in athens, 10 modern buildings in athens you shouldn’t miss, listen to our new podcast series – athens unpacked, neighbourhoods.

Each neighbourhood in Athens has its own unique attractions and character. Explore the cafes you can’t miss in Exarchia, the vibrant nightlife in Gazi and the coolest shopping in Koukaki. Discover your new favourite Athenian neighbourhood with our insider guides.

Monastiraki

Historic centre, neos kosmos, sepolia / kolonos.

athens greece travel brochure

The most famous Athenian neighbourhood of Plaka is definitely a top attraction for visitors. Its picturesque streets, historic landmarks and lively shops make it a must-see. Just be prepared for the crowds.

What a difference a decade makes. The arrival of the landmark Acropolis Museum and the pedestrian walkway linking the city’s ancient monuments has seen this historic neighbourhood emerge as one of Athens’ most fashionable postcodes.

Layers of history intersect at the city’s hub of commerce and craftsmanship.

The heart of modern Greece beats in the historic centre of Athens — but contrary to what you’d think, it has little to do with ancient ruins.

The Athenian intelligentsia have long settled in this central neighbourhood of leafy squares and lively cafes. Now the hipsters are moving in too.

Rebels with, and quite often without, a cause have earned Exarchia a reputation as the turf of anarchists and radicals.

Gritty, dense and lined with auto repair shops, Neos Kosmos was a silent blue collar neighbourhood you’d never go to unless you lived there. But when art came to town, a transformation began, and today this up-and-coming neighbourhood is coming alive.

Head off the beaten track to Kolonos and Sepolia, two low-key residential areas that have yet to catch up with the fast-paced tempo of downtown Athens.

08 March 2024

Hadassah Emmerich: Epicurean Eden

10 February 2024 - 10 March 2024

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom

01 March 2024 - 10 March 2024

2nd Independent Film Festival of Athens

08 March 2024 - 10 March 2024

10 March 2024

Athens Half Marathon 2024

11 March 2024

SNFCC Cosmos: Tangerine Dream

14 March 2024 - 15 March 2024

Correspondences: Soundwalk Collective & Patti Smith

26 February 2024 - 16 March 2024

Carnival Celebrations at Athenian Squares 2024

03 March 2024 - 17 March 2024

Carnival for Κids 2024

10 March 2024 - 17 March 2024

Carnival Parades in Athens 2024

25 February 2024 - 18 March 2024

Carnival in Athens 2024

17 March 2024 - 18 March 2024

Carnival and Clean Monday at the SNFCC 2024

25 March 2024

Independence Day in Athens

16 June 2023 - 31 March 2024

Woodscapes: Erieta Attali On Kengo Kuma

14 December 2023 - 31 March 2024

Chaeronea, 2 August 338 BC: A Day that Changed the World

02 February 2024 - 31 March 2024

Love Issues

20 March 2024 - 31 March 2024

The Last Five Years

10 January 2024 - 07 April 2024

Neo-Impressionism: In the Colours of the Mediterranean

04 December 2023 - 12 April 2024

Meanings: Personification and Allegories, from Antiquity to Today

11 November 2023 - 13 April 2024

St Paul’s Sessions 6

18 January 2024 - 14 April 2024

All Ηere! 50 years of Democracy

01 January 2024 - 22 April 2024

Fun and Learning at the Athens Planetarium

22 April 2024 - 26 April 2024

Dimitris Papaioannou: INK

21 June 2023 - 12 May 2024

Urbanography: The Life of the City in the Decades 1950-1970

10 February 2024 - 18 May 2024

¡Viva España! at Olympia Music Theatre

08 June 2024 - 09 June 2024

14 December 2023 - 27 October 2024

WOMEN, Together

19 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Reverb Festival at Kypseli Municipal Market

05 July 2023 - 01 June 2025

Grand Tour at the Benaki Museum

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Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Panoramic view of the Acropolis on a hill with other historical ruins around in Athens, Greece

Athens, founded in 508 BC, is a gigantic city that sprawls over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people.

There are over 5,000 years of history in Athens and you’ll find some of the largest collections in the world of Greek ruins and artifacts here.

But I’ll be honest: I don’t love Athens. I didn’t like it when I first went in 2006 and, after four visits (most recently last year), I’m still not completely sold on it. I think it’s dirty, ugly, and, overall, there’s just something about it I just don’t like.

That said, it’s not all bad.

I love the Plaka area (that’s where all the history is) and Psyri, just north, is my favorite neighborhood in the city. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and has a lot of excellent bars, street drinking, cafes, and restaurants.

Overall, I have a feeling that Athens is a place that truly reveals its magic when you live there. So, while I’m still not sold on it, I warmed up to it after my last visit and can see why some people like it.

Given the amount of history and sights here, I suggest you spend at least three full days when you visit. There’s a lot to see and do here.

This travel guide to Athens will give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your visit, save money, and make the most of your time here!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Athens

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Athens

view of Athens, Greece

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is a 5th-century BCE citadel overlooking Athens. The hilltop complex includes ancient buildings and ruins like Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s undoubtedly one of the best historical spots in the city. Lots of plays are hosted in the Odeon of Herodes here in the summer too. Arrive super early or late to avoid the crowds. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens (more on that below). For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

This newer (opened in 2009) museum is housed in a modern building that’s juxtaposed with the archaeological treasures that it holds. One of the highlights is the glass floor where you can walk over the ruins of an ancient neighborhood. There are also over 4,000 excavated finds, including sculptures, friezes, pottery, and more. End your visit at the museum’s restaurant for one of the best views of the Parthenon in the city. Admission is 5 EUR in the winter and 10 EUR in the summer.

3. See the National Archaeological Museum

This museum, founded in the 19th century, has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. There are five main permanent collections with exhibits covering Prehistoric Antiquities, Sculpture, Metalwork, Vases and Minor Arts, Egyptian Antiquities, and Cypriot Antiquities. You can even see the 2,000-year-old analog “computer” found in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera. Plan to spend at least a half-day here. Admission is 6 EUR in the winter and 12 EUR in the summer.

4. Hike Lycabettus

Legend has it that the mythological goddess Athena created Mount Lycabettus when she dropped a limestone mountain on the spot. If you want some exercise and a great view of the city and the Acropolis (especially at sunset), hike up to the peak of this 277-meter (909 ft) hill, which is the highest point in Athens. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street. There’s a (pricey) cafe at the top if you need a drink, as well as an open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts in the summer, and a 19th-century chapel. If you don’t want to walk up, you can pay 7.50 EUR for a return trip on the funicular (5 EUR one-way).

5. See the Historic Sights

The ancient ruins of old Athens are littered around The Plaka, an area that’s known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods.” Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, this is the oldest part of Athens and ruins are everywhere. The Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Roman Agora, Olympieion, Kerameikos, and a ton more other stuff are all here. Plan to spend a while roaming the sites. For the big 5, get a combo ticket. It costs 30 EUR and is valid for 5 days so you don’t have to rush.

Other Things to See and Do in Athens

1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. This post lists all my favorite walking tours in Athens . Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

And if you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, Take Walks is the way to go. You get lots of behind-the-scenes access, including at the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Tours start at 59 EUR. It’s worth the money if you’re a history buff like me!

2. Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora)

This 19th-century public market is one of my favorite places to wander, people watch, and sample the local delicacies. Come early to watch the produce and fish being unloaded. There are a ton of Greek specialties, like olives, halloumi, and feta for sale here. It’s open every day of the week except Sunday, from 7am to 6pm (it gets very crowded around lunchtime so arrive early). If you have an appetite, stop at Diporto to eat. The restaurant has no menu so they serve whatever they cook for the day. The owners barely speak English but the food is excellent!

3. Go to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon

Constructed in 444 BCE, the remarkably well preserved Temple of Poseidon sits on a rocky outcrop 70 meters (300 ft) above the ocean. Built to honor the god of the sea, the temple served as a welcomed sight for returning sailors. The sunset from here is incredible and there are several beaches nearby in Legrena and Lavrio. Admission to the archaeological site is 10 EUR. It’s about an hour away from Athens.

4. Visit the Kanellopoulos Museum

This former mansion dates to 1884 and houses a collection of over 6,500 items, including jewelry, weapons, clay-and-stone vases, Byzantine art, figurines, and furniture that once belonged to the wealthy Kanellopoulos family. The collection was bought by the government and turned into a museum in 1976. Although there isn’t much English signage, you rarely have to compete for views with other visitors. Admission is 3 EUR.

5. See the Tower of the Winds (Aerides)

Originally built by Andronicus in the first century BCE, this octagonal tower once functioned as a sundial, weather vane, compass, and water clock. It’s widely accepted to be the world’s first meteorological station. The entire tower is made of Pentelic marble, which is the same used for the Parthenon and was rarely used for anything other than temples. It’s 8 EUR to visit with a combined ticket to the Ancient Agora.

6. Witness the Easter Vigil

If you happen to be in Athens during Easter weekend, don’t miss this enchanting vigil procession. Every Good Friday, thousands upon thousands of people form a procession throughout the city, all holding lit candles. Head to Lycabettus Hill and join the crowds ascending to the St. George church. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a cultural experience worth seeing. You can also climb the hill anytime to watch the sunset (it’s the highest point in the city so the views are excellent). The neighborhood below, Kolonaki, also has lots of upscale bars and cafes if you want to splash out and relax.

7. Hike Parnitha National Park

Located 90 minutes from Athens by car, here you can find several caves, gorges, and springs to explore. Mount Parnitha is also the highest mountain in the region, standing 1,413 meters (4,635 ft) tall. There are around 75 well-marked paths in the park so a guide isn’t necessary. For an easy hike, the trek to Bafi Refuge from the church of Ayia Triada only takes 40 minutes. For something more challenging, try the 20-kilometer (12-mile) trek from Avlona to Agia Marina.

8. Stroll through Anafiotika

Anafiotika is a 19th-century neighborhood built into the northern side of the Acropolis hill. It lies above Plaka, near the entrance to the Agora, but has none of the hustle and bustle of the city center. This place embodies the feel of the Greek islands, boasting whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and tiny sidewalk cafes.

9. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Dating from the 6th century BCE, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the largest temple in Greece (it took almost 700 years to build). Peisistratos, the son of Hippocrates and ruler of Athens from 561-527 BCE, started its construction and then abandoned it after funds ran dry. Hadrian finished the job in 131 CE, and then built an enormous statue of Zeus (and then an enormous statue of himself). There are only a few Corinthian columns still standing. Admission is 6 EUR but really there’s not much here so just look at it from the gate and save yourself some money!

10. Take a food tour

Athens is one big gastronomic adventure. To sample the city’s best eats, Devour’s Ultimate Athens Food Tour provides a fantastic introduction to the local cuisine, with thirteen tastings across nine traditional establishments. You’ll sample fresh cheeses and cold cuts, visit the central market, learn about Greek dining culture, enjoy loukoumades (fried donut balls), and taste some classic souvlaki, all while exploring three historic neighborhoods. Tours start from 69 EUR.

11. Hang out in Psyri

This small neighborhood north of Plaka was given a major upgrade for the 2004 Olympics and consists of an eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, tavernas, cafes, and restaurants. It’s one of my favorite areas in Athens. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and is really popular with locals on weekends. There are a lot of hostels here and nearby you’ll find one of the Middle Eastern/Indian neighborhoods in the city (they are blended here) with lots of good food options.

13. Hit the beach

The closest beaches to the center of Athens are in Piraeus and Alimos, just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) south of Athens center. They offer beaches with clear water, sand and pebbles, and have a good selection of restaurants to choose from. Their easy access from Athens by public transport means they get busy in the summer — especially on weekends and holidays. If you have more time and want to escape (some of) the crowds, head further along the Athenian Riviera to places like Lagonisi or Saronida or go on to Sounion (you could combine a beach trip with visiting the Temple of Poseidon). If the sea is too cold for swimming, head to Vouliagmeni Lake. The water in the lake is thermally heated so it’s much warmer than the ocean!

14. Hike Filopappou Hill

Right across from the Acropolis is this hill that gives you one of the best views of the Parthenon. The hill takes about 15 minutes to walk up and there are a number of ruins and sites all around the hill you can stop at (they have a lot of good signs that explain what was there). Definitely go up. The views are great!

15. Day trip to Delphi

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

16. Watch the sunset on Mars Hill

A very popular sunset spot with locals is Mars (Areopagus) Hill. It was once the site that served as the high court of appeal in ancient Greece. Today, it’s a great spot to relax and see the sunset. Bring some beer or wine up here and enjoy the view of the city right under the Acropolis. It’s like a free “rooftop” bar!

17. See Hansen’s Trilogy

There are three buildings just five minutes walk from the Syntagma main square and are considered some of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in the world. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen in the 19th century, The Academy, the University, and the National Library look exactly like how you’d picture ancient Athens. The simple use of geometric shapes gives these buildings a grand, eloquent design. Don’t miss seeing them!

18. Explore the Panathenaic Stadium (Kalimarmaro)

This stadium is where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896. The stadium was originally used in 330 BCE by the Greeks. The Romans rebuilt it entirely out of marble in 144 CE, expanding it to hold over 50,000 people. It eventually was abandoned and wasn’t used again until the 19th century when it was refurbished for the Olympics. Admission is 10 EUR. In the summer, lots of concerts are held here for big touring bands.

For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

  • Corfu Travel Guide
  • Crete Travel Guide
  • Ios Travel Guide
  • Mykonos Travel Guide
  • Naxos Travel Guide
  • Santorini Travel Guide
  • Sparta Travel Guide

Athens Travel Costs

Cafe tables lining an alleyway covered with a lush tree branches, surrounded by bright yellow buildings, in Athens, Greece.

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds starts at 35 EUR per night, while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs 20-25 EUR per night. Private rooms cost between 95-105 EUR per night in peak season and around 55 EUR in off-peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have kitchens if you want to cook.

For those traveling with a tent, camping can be done outside the city for around 16 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels with a private bathroom start at 40 EUR per night, though expect to spend closer to 50-60 per night if you’re booking last minute.

You can find Airbnbs anywhere in Athens, with private rooms starting at 20 EUR per night (although they average closer to 45 EUR). A full apartment averages about 130 EUR per night.

Average cost of food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables. Olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts are also super common. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find gyros or souvlaki for between 2-3 EUR, while a breakfast pastry with a coffee isn’t more than 3 EUR.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 10 EUR for a main dish and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 5-8 EUR. Fish will be more expensive around 15-20 EUR. A lot of restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water at a restaurant is about 2 EUR.

All in all, if you’re going out at a casual taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that prices, go up depending on how fancy you get!

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 7-10 EUR while Indian/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

Beer is 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR. Cocktails are expensive, however, usually costing 8-12 EUR.

My favorite places to eat in the city are Kostas for souvlaki (they use this red sauce that is to die for), Feyrouz for Lebanese food, Avli Psiri or Ella for Greek, Shiraki for Japanese, Dosa House for dosas.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 40 EUR on groceries per week, which will get you staples like pasta, rice, fresh veggies, and chicken. Head to the Central Market for the cheapest, freshest food.

Backpacking Athens Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 45 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly cheap or free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking more, add 5-10 EUR more to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, drink more, eat out for all your meals at cheap street stalls, take the occasional taxi, and do more activities like visiting the Acropolis and the Archeological Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Athens Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece in general is pretty cheap and Athens is no exception. Stick to cheap eats, a few attractions, and boom, you’re set! But, with a few extra tips, your money can go a lot further. Here are some suggested ways to save money in Athens:

  • Take a free walking tour – To get a feel for the city and learn some history, be sure to take a free walking tour when you arrive. Exploring a city on foot is the best way to understand it, and if you love architecture and history then this is a must! Just be sure to tip your guide at the end.
  • Get a transportation pass – Buying combo tickets for Athens’ metro system is one of the best ways to save money. A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR, and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.
  • Visit the sites for free – From November 1st to March 31st, all major sites in the city are free on the first Sunday of the month. Though the crowds tend to be big, it’s a great way to see all the major sites and save yourself the entrance fee! Prices are also heavily discounted during these months as well.
  • Get a combo ticket – For 30 EUR you can get admission to the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and more. Considering the entrance fee is 20 EUR for just the Acropolis, this is a steal!
  • Have an ISIC Card – To save up to 50% on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
  • Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts in Athens. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you get a local host that can tell you the best places to go and share their insider tips.
  • Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
  • Use the Greek Salad/Bread Rule – Is a restaurant cheap or expensive? Here’s a good rule of thumb: If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more that, the place is expensive.
  • Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!
  • Use points if you can – If you’re a travel hacker and have points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation will be better if you’re staying at cheaper properties (anything less than 100 EUR). For only a few thousand points per night, you can save a ton of money. This post has more info if you’re new to travel hacking .

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens has plenty of affordable hostels to choose from. From hostels to hotels to quiant B&Bs, you have a lot of choice. If you’re looking for a hostel, here are some of my favorites (they all offer private rooms too):

  • Athens Hawks Hostel

How to Get Around Athens

Bright, natural-light-filled train station in Athens with a colorful subway car.

A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.

The express bus from the airport for 6 EUR each way. The subway costs 9 EUR each way and takes about an hour from the city center to the airport (and vice versa).

Bicycle – If you’re not afraid of navigating Athens’ chaotic traffic, bike rentals are an enjoyable way to get around. Rentals start at 12 EUR per day, though electric bicycles can be double that price. Athens By Bike and Bike Me Up are two reputable companies to use.

Taxi – Base fare for taxis in Athens is 3 EUR, with each additional kilometer costing 0.74 EUR. Skip the taxis if you can as the prices add up quickly. Also, make sure the meter is turned on. It’s illegal for drivers not to use the meter, however, some drivers might try to get sneaky to rip you off. Additionally, make sure the meter shows a number “1”. The “2” is only for 12am-5am, when the rates are double.

Ridesharing – Uber no longer exists here so you’re stuck taking taxis. (You can still use the Uber app, but it will just call a taxi for you).

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. However, you won’t need one unless you’re going to be leaving the city to explore the surrounding area. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

When to Go to Athens

Summer (June-August)is the most popular time to visit. However, it’s also super hot. Temperatures climb as high as the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F), which can often be unbearable. Sometimes they get even higher and get closer to 40°C. On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing some island hopping from Athens, this is a good time to come to enjoy the Mediterranean waters.

Winters in Athens are mild, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F). It rarely snows so this can be an excellent time to see the Acropolis and other famous sights without the tourist crowds. Easter is an excellent time to visit to appreciate all the Greek Orthodox celebrations.

Personally, I think that the shoulder season (April/May and September/October) is the best time to visit. Prices are a bit cheaper, temperatures are pleasant, and you can avoid the busiest time of the tourist season. If you’re on a budget and want to beat the crowds, this is when you should visit.

How to Stay Safe in Athens

Athens is generally a very safe city to visit, even for solo travelers. Your biggest risk is pickpockets, especially on the subway. The city is rife with them. Be sure to keep a close eye on your stuff and watch out for groups who come near you. Usually, they are working in teams to distract you while someone picks your pocket. Other than that, there’s not much to worry about.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

At night, it’s best to avoid the areas around Omonia, Exarcheia, Victoria Square, and Kolokotroni.

If you hike to Fillopapou hill, keep an eye out for pickpockets. The pickpockets know tourists go up there so they tend to hang out around there looking for an easy target.

Scams can occur around Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Glyfada when tourists are lured into a bar with special discounted drink prices, and then are later forced to pay huge prices on their bar tabs or get threatened with violence. You can read more about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Athens Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
  • Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Athens Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

athens greece travel brochure

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

  • Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
  • Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
  • Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
  • Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
  • Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

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Planning a Trip to Athens: The Ultimate Travel Checklist

  • Last Updated on: Jan 25, 2024
  • Read Time 18 mins
  • Published: Mar 20, 2020

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You’ve already heard and read about the wonders of Athens, the archaeological sites, the Parthenon, the sandy beaches, the nearby islands, and the picturesque city center. Now it’s time to visit this intriguing destination yourself. But where do you start? How do you prepare for a relaxing vacation with no unpleasant surprises? This travel checklist will cover all the things you need to consider before you start planning your trip to Athens, Greece, and answer all your questions to help you ensure that your holiday will be no less than flawless. In addition, at the end of the article, you’ll find a quick guide for first-time visitors to Athens that will go through all the things that should be on your bucket list and all the attractions you should not miss when you get there. So, keep reading, make sure to tick all the boxes off your travel checklist, and prepare for the most unforgettable vacation.

Travel Checklist for Athens, Greece

This 10-point travel checklist should be your starting point and your most trustworthy travel planning partner if you want a seamless vacation. After all, what better way to prepare for a trip to Athens than to get all the information you need directly from the locals? Without further ado, here’s all you need to know about your upcoming Athens trip.

athens greece travel brochure

1. Get your passport ready and check the visa requirements

Greece is one of the only two countries in the Balkans that is a part of the Schengen Zone which means that if your passport was issued in a country that also belongs to the Schengen Zone, you will not need a visa to get to Athens.

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong S.A.R, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao S.A.R, Macedonia, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Samoa, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Timor Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela

Keep in mind, however, that some of these countries have some special requirements you have to meet before being allowed to travel within the Schengen Zone without a visa. It’s always best to check with your local authorities beforehand.

Also, note that the 90-day period starts counting from when you land in any Schengen country. Lastly, it’s always best to travel with a passport that expires no less than 6 months from the date of your trip.

If you have any questions regarding your passport or visa status after arriving in Athens, we recommend checking with your country’s embassy or consulate. You can find an extensive list of foreign embassies and consulates in Athens here .

2. Book your flights early

We always say it, but there is no way to stress this enough: if you want to get a cheap flight to Athens, you’ll have to book your tickets early!

Tip : Aviasales searches travel and airline sites to help you find cheap flights at the best prices . Search for tickets with 728 airlines and leading ticket offices and get the best prices on flights.

Especially if you’re traveling from faraway places like North America or Australia, booking your ticket well in advance will not only guarantee that you get a good deal but also that there will be enough time for you to schedule all your activities in time and book any tours, ferry or train tickets you will be needing.

You can book any tours or tickets here .

Greece is primarily a summertime tourist destination. Thus, many more flights are operating during the summer months to choose from.

athens greece travel brochure

Sometimes, flying to Athens and then getting on a ferry or another flight toward the islands is quite cheap. Plus, you might get the chance to spend a day in Athens – or more!

In our experience, you can get the best deals by searching and comparing flights on Aviasales , a cutting-edge flight search platform with frequent offers and real-time updates.

3. Plan your Athens itinerary

Regardless of how much time you plan to spend in Athens, you should always be one step ahead and have an organized schedule.

A well-crafted itinerary always makes for an enjoyable trip. The first thing you’ll need to ask yourself before starting to plan every step of the trip is what kind of vacation you are looking for.

Save Money : If you are planning to visit some must-see archaeological sites in Athens, plus the Acropolis Museum it is much cheaper to buy the Athens Pass than to buy single tickets.

Athens Pass Tourist Card

Athens Pass Tourist Card: Skip-the-Line Tickets for All the Must-See Attractions in Athens

Athens combines nature, culture, urban walks, gastronomy, and nightlife in an exciting blend that will make this decision difficult.

athens greece travel brochure

We have some good and some bad news for you. The bad news is that fitting everything into your Athens itinerary will be impossible. But here’s the good news: whatever you choose to do on your vacation, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re planning to stay in Athens for more than a week:

You’ll have plenty of time for the most famous attractions and explore the city’s best neighborhoods at your own pace. So why not take it a few steps further?

We highly recommend taking a day trip away from Athens to discover one or more of the country’s famous sites like the unique Meteora , the enigmatic site of Delphi , or Ancient Olympia .

You can find a few more ideas about great day trips from Athens right below.

hydra island saronic gulf

Best Day Trips From Athens To: Ancient Sites – Islands – Towns

If you’re planning to stay in athens for less than a week:.

Of course, you should prioritize visiting the must-see attractions , but you’ll also have the chance to explore some lesser-known spots.

Start by discovering the hidden gems of Athens , make sure to dive into the vibrant nightlife, and don’t forget to get a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. Last but not least spend some hours exploring Anafiotika, the hidden island under the Acropolis .

athens greece travel brochure

Now, if sandy beaches are what you are after, consider taking a short cruise to the Saronic Gulf islands.

the port of hydra island

The Ideal Day Trip From Athens to Saronic Gulf Islands

If you’re planning to stay in athens only for a few days:.

If you’re planning a weekend in Athens , the top attractions like the Parthenon and Acropolis Museum should be at the top of your list.

You’ll also have time to explore a few of the city’s most famous neighborhoods like the picturesque Plaka and the famous Monastiraki .

athens greece travel brochure

We highly recommend booking a guided tour to these places to save time and make the most out of your visit to Athens.

Finally, if you’re only visiting for a day, have a look at this guide to planning the perfect one-day itinerary for your trip. And don’t worry if you don’t make it to all of the stops; you can always come back!

4. Book your activities in advance

Apart from day trips and island cruises, there is a wide array of options for activities in Athens you can choose from.

From urban sightseeing walks that will take you through the most famous attractions, nightlife walking tours, and charming rooftop sunset tours to street food tours and watersports activities, there is not much you cannot do in Athens.

Keep in mind that if you are traveling during the tourist season of Greece (April to September), you have to book any activities in advance to secure a spot.

Try having a look here for more exciting ideas and tours with guaranteed lowest prices in Athens.

5. Book your accommodation

If you are a frequent reader, you already know that we mention this a lot, but this simple tip is perhaps the most important piece of advice you must follow.

Book your hotel right after you book your flights!

Athens is indeed home to many hotels, but that doesn’t mean that all of them offer high-quality amenities at reasonable prices or are located in privileged spots in the city.

hotels in athens greece

Discover the Best Hotels in Athens: A Guide to the Best Areas to Stay

If you want to get a good deal for your stay in Athens and be sure your money is well spent, you must book in advance.

One of the hotels we usually recommend to our readers is the Attalos Hotel .

athens greece travel brochure

This hotel is located in a perfect location within a 15-minute walk of all important sights, restaurants, and interesting neighborhoods.

Check some photos and reviews on Booking.com

We recommend using booking.com , one of the largest booking platforms worldwide to make sure you get access to exclusive offers. Plus, you can get free cancellation for bookings made even months before your arrival.

6. Pack your bags

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but we’ve all had trips ruined by forgetting some of our most essential things. Make a packing list and be sure to include the following:

  • Beach attire and accessories . Downtown Athens is just a breath away from a few spectacular beaches . Ensure you have your swimsuit and anything else you might need at the beach.
  • Sunscreen . Even if you don’t plan to go to the beach, the summer weather in Athens can be cruel. You don’t want to get sunburnt while walking up the Acropolis or strolling down the sunny streets in the city center.
  • Medication . Even though there are pharmacies everywhere in the city center, buying almost anything requires having a doctor’s prescription and you will have a hard time buying even common medicine. ( Pro tip : if you’re planning to travel by ferry, make sure to pack some seasickness pills for windy days).
  • A smartphone . You’ll even be able to purchase a SIM card in Athens and have a local number with just your ID. Having a smartphone with a local number will also allow you to use taxi apps in Athens.
  • Appropriate clothing . Make sure to pack a pair of sneakers for all those long walks up and down the hills of Athens and a spring jacket even if you’re traveling in the middle of the summer. Nights in Athens can be chilly, especially in places near the seaside like the Athens Riviera .

7. Have some cash ready

The monetary unit of Greece is the Euro. Most major credit cards are accepted throughout Greece but we recommend that you try to make some exchange and have cash with you before getting to downtown Athens.

A few (though rare) restaurants, cafes, and kiosks still do not accept credit cards. Also, remember that you won’t be able to use a credit card with street vendors or taxis.

athens greece travel brochure

If you don’t want to carry cash with you on your flight, you can exchange any currency at the Athens International Airport by withdrawing money from the ATMs or at the currency exchange booths.

8. Prepare for your arrival

It’s time to get prepared for all the practical stuff. The main concern you will have as soon as you arrive in Athens will be how to get to the city center and locate your hotel.

If you plan to land at Athens International Airport , you will have three different transportation options: the metro, the bus, or a taxi.

The metro station is located right outside the airport and is a terminal stop (blue line). Boarding the metro will take you to Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Kerameikos in downtown Athens , as well as the port of Piraeus.

athens greece travel brochure

In addition, four bus routes (X93, X95, X96, X97) head in different directions throughout Athens and all the way to Piraeus port .

The metro ticket costs €9 and the bus ticket to Athens or the port of Piraeus costs €5.30 .

If you want to save time, we recommend getting a taxi. There is a fixed price for rides from the airport to the city center at €40 in the daytime (05.00 – 00.00) and €55 at night (00.00 – 05.00).

That is all the information you need to get from the airport of Athens to the city center . For more information on how to get around Athens after you have reached downtown, have a look here .

9. Learn a few common words in Greek

Communicating in English while in Athens -and especially at all the tourist hotspots- will not be a problem. However, learning a few words in Greek will be a fun way to make your way around, and it will surely put a smile on people’s faces. Here are a few words you need to know to make a great first impression:

  • Hi – Yah
  • Yes – Né
  • No – Okhi
  • Thank You – Efkharistó
  • Please or Welcome – Parakaló
  • Do You Speak English – Miláte Angliká?
  • I don’t speak Greek – Den miláo eliniká
  • Excuse Me – Signómi
  • Good Morning – Kaliméra
  • Good Evening – Kalispéra
  • Goodnight – Kalinikta (only say this when you are bidding someone goodbye)

A Quick Guide for First-Time Visitors to Athens

We’re not done yet! If you need a travel checklist for Athens, it’s safe to assume that you are a first-time visitor.

So, after ticking off all of the boxes above, we’ll give you a little bit of information on our beloved city so that you get to know it better before arriving.

When Is the Best Time To Travel To Athens?

The most convenient period to travel to Athens is during spring and autumn because of the pleasing weather with temperatures that are not as hot as the summer months but still warm enough to enjoy your stay.

Also, there are fewer visitors during these periods, meaning that all the famous sites and museums will be less crowded and the hotels cheaper and easier to book.

Wintertime is also quite an interesting time to visit Athens if you want to experience the city without all the flashy touristy stuff, like a true local. You can get a feel of what visiting Athens in the winter could be like by going through this guide .

Summertime is the peak tourist season and when the city is at its busiest.

best season to visit athens

If you can handle the tourist crowds and the hot weather, visiting Athens in the summer will be an unforgettable experience, especially if you plan to go on a day trip to an island or enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

If you want to read more about when is the best time to visit Athens, please read this detailed article .

Tradition and Culture of Athens

Greece is a country full of culture, customs, and traditions that date back thousands of years.

And while it’s true that Greek culture is best experienced in small places in the countryside, you’ll find that Athens will make for a trip completely different from anything else you have experienced in Europe – or the world!

If you’re lucky enough to visit on Christmas or Easter, you’ll get the chance to witness unique festive celebrations and get in touch with local culture.

christmas in athens greece

Christmas in Athens: Weather – Tips – Where to Go and What to Do

Also, don’t miss out on joining any local event. A Greek wedding or christening feast would be the best example, but simply hanging out with the locals at a tiny taverna or a traditional kafenion will be enough for you to get in touch with Athenian culture .

Hospitality in Athens

Greek hospitality is definitely not a myth, even in the big city of Athens! Just spark a conversation with any local, and you’ll soon discover that Greeks are big on hospitality.

People are friendly and will be more than happy to give you instructions on the street or help you out with anything you need.

The uniqueness of Greek hospitality is also reflected in the hotel’s services and staff and the local gastronomy scene.

athens greece travel brochure

What You Should Not Miss When You Visit Athens

You shouldn’t miss the lovely walk around the Acropolis (built for the Olympic games and finished in 2002), starting from the site of the Arch of Hadrien and the Temple of the Olympian Zeus , passing by the amazing theatre of Herodes Atticus, and descending to Thissio , where you can enjoy a drink or a coffee in one of the nice cafés with view on the Acropolis.

athens greece travel brochure

A guided tour of the ancient sites of Athens is strongly recommended

Make sure to reserve an entire morning to visit the majestic Acropolis , some of the best museums in Athens, and the lovely little theatre of Dionysus on the southeast slope of the Acropolis.

Check out this skip-the-line ticket for all the sites in Athens.

Combined Ticket for the Acropolis & all the Archaeological Sites in Athens

Combined Ticket for the Acropolis & all the Archaeological Sites in Athens [Skip the Line with a Single Ticket]

Places to go when in athens.

Start by walking around the city center between the small streets of Plaka and pass by the flea market in Monastiraki.

Please your senses with colors and odors at the Athens Central Market on Athinas Avenue, home to local fruit and vegetable vendors and little shops selling nuts, herbs, honey, and dried fruits.

Market of Athens

Read our detailed article about the Athens central market and learn how to get there, the opening hours of the Varvakeios, and many more.

varvakios central market in athens greece

A Hidden Foodie Oasis: Visit the Athens Central Market

You can also take a walk in the district of Psiri where you can find a lot of artisanal shops, a few modern shops with home furniture, as well as several restaurants and tavernas, trendy bars, and wine places.

athens greece travel brochure

Of course, you must visit Lycabettus Hill and enjoy the wonderful view from there. Lycabettus Hill is a vantage point that gives a great view of the city of Athens below.

On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Parnitha in the north, Piraeus in the west, and the Saronic Gulf in the south.

View of the Acropolis from Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill, which means “Hill of Wolves,” is the place to be on “Clean Monday,” which is the first day of Lenten according to the Greek Orthodox Church. Athenians gather here to fly kites on this day, and the sky is full of colors.

Cabs go half the distance and then you have to walk to the top.

Another option is to take the funicular and you’ll cover the distance in two minutes. The cable cars are available every half hour from 9 am till midnight.

Lycabettus Hill

Syntagma Square is another place you can’t miss. Look at the imposing neoclassical building of the Greek Parliament (the old king’s palace) and take a few photos of the Evzones (Greek guards wearing the traditional fustanella skirt, hat, and shoes) who guard it.

syntagma square in athens greece

Syntagma Square in Athens: The Central Meeting Point of the City

Finally, for a bit of freshness and nature, go for a walk in the National Garden or the charming Gardens of Zappeion.

athens greece travel brochure

And that’s just the beginning. Check out our guide on the top things to do in Athens here , and tailor your itinerary to suit your tastes and preferences.

That’s all the essential information you will need to start planning your trip to Athens.

We hope that you find our travel checklist for your upcoming trip to Athens useful and that you’ll be able to enjoy this marvelous city absolutely stress-free.

Follow our tips, and we are certain that your vacation will be one that you will never forget.

attractions in athens greece

Athens Uncovered: Must-Visit Places for Every Traveler

A Quick Reminder:

Remember that Athens By Locals is here to guide you with planning the perfect trip to Athens and help you every step along the way. If you didn’t found what you’re looking for, or need any recommendations about your trip to Athens, feel free to  contact us  and we will do our best to help you. Please be as more detailed as possible regarding your subject so as to help you better.

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Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Rebecca Hall

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to one of the world's most storied cities, Athens

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to Athens, one of the world's most storied cities © Lisa Schaetzle / Getty Images

Founded in 508 BCE, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and it's regularly touted as one of the Mediterranean’s best capital cities to visit. From the iconic Parthenon and the unique street art rivaling that of Berlin  to the city's glittering coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this ancient capital. 

One thing’s for sure: whether you’re into architecture, mythology, ancient sites, modern art or simply relaxing by the beach, Athens has something for everyone.

When should I go to Athens?

Greece generally attracts most people during the summer months (June to August) and Athens is no different, but we recommend visiting in the spring and autumn to avoid the heat. These shoulder seasons – March to May and September to October – offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable travel experience overall. It’s also worth remembering that Athens is a humid place thanks to its coastline, which creates humid heat in the summer and gives the winter cold an extra chill. Consider this when packing and bring layers for all seasons.

Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls in April or May and the run-up to it, plus the event itself, is a huge celebration in the Greek calendar – even more so than Christmas. Expect street carnivals to mark the end of Lent and street processions to the various neighborhood churches on the Easter weekend, culminating in Mass and a huge meal on the Easter Sunday with a lamb on the spit. 

Restaurant prices won’t change much throughout the year, but accommodation prices do vary.  The same four-star hotel located near the Acropolis could be €140 per night in March and jump up to €320 in June for a weekend date, with Easter time seeing similar price rises.  It’s often cheaper to book directly, and hotels generally only publish their prices about two to three months in advance. 

An overhead view of historic Monastiraki Sq in Athens, Greece

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Many Europeans come to Athens for a weekend break, and long-haul travelers often use the city as as a stopover on the way to the Greek islands. 

You can get an initial taste of the city in two days, but we recommend a longer stay to truly understand the essence of this ancient capital. With four days, you can spend a day and a half at the capital’s famous sights, spend an afternoon wandering its neighborhoods , and still have time time to explore the beaches and ancient ruins of the Athenian coastline for a day or two.

Is it easy to get in and around Athens?

Located at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Greece (and Athens in particular) attracts many tourists, which means the travel infrastructure is well developed and easy to use. Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive – or a 45-minute metro ride – from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. 

Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus , which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km (6 miles) from the city center. Piraeus is well linked to both the center (20 minutes by metro) and airport (a 24-hour bus service that takes about 90 minutes).

Public transport around Athens itself is easy, accessible and affordable, with a single ticket valid for a 90-minute journey and costing a mere €1.20. There is also a range of ticket deals, including  tourist passes lasting three and five days. 

The four modes of transport in Athens are:

  • the very clean metro system . Note: no food is allowed.
  • the overground train that connects the center to Piraeus port and other mainland destinations.
  • an extensive network of  buses and electric trolleys . These primarily run to urban neighborhoods beyond the touristic center. 
  • a tram service that connects the city center to the Athens coast and its beaches in about an hour.

After you’ve gotten yourself from the airport to the city center, most of Athens’s popular sights sit within a compact, walkable area. Just be aware of the traffic – cars don’t always immediately stop at red lights, and motorbikes occasionally mount the sidewalk to park.

An overhead view of a turquoise sea with people on the beach in Athens, Greece

Top things to do in Athens

Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the  Parthenon , Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum , which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.

Ancient artifacts crop up all over the city in random places, too; the metro stations of Monastiraki, Akropoli and Syntagma are like mini museums in their own right, and there's even ruins of a Roman tomb in a glassed-off area of the Zara clothing store on the shopping street of Ermou.

If it’s shopping you’re into, pedestrianized Ermou St is the place to go. It runs for nearly a mile from the Acropolis area up to Parliament in Syntagma Square, and features tons of fashion brands such as Mac, Desigual and the aforementioned Zara, plus a huge H&M. Greece’s main department store, Attica, is also here, and it's a great place to stock up with your holiday essentials. 

Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens ? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden  next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , or make your way to  Filopappou Hill /Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.

My favorite thing to do in Athens

As an aficionado of street art, I love exploring the burgeoning street art scene here and getting to know the various neighborhoods where it proliferates. Take in the famous Praying Hands Mural just off Omonia Sq, for example, which depicts Jesus praying for the people down on Earth – a play on Albrecht Dürer’s Praying Hands (1508).

I also love wandering around the hidden village of Anafiotika , which sits beneath the northeast side of the Acropolis. A sub-district of Plaka, it was built in the mid-1800s when King Otto brought in workers from the Greek island of Anafi to construct his palace. Homesick, the workers set about making their neighborhood a replica of their homeland, building white, sugar-cubed houses with flat stone roofs and brightly painted wooden doors and shutters, like those found in the Cyclades. Pink and white bougainvilleas wind their way up these buildings, several of which have roof gardens. 

Anafiotika is a bit difficult to find, but worth the effort. Start at the Acropolis main entrance, and walk to your left along the path; keep the monument to your right until you reach the Church of Metamorphosis. Continue straight past the church and follow the wider path up a steep hill. The path turns right and runs into stairs – this is the start of the island village.

Women toast with glasses of white wine at a restaurant in Athens, Greece

How much money do I need for Athens?

Athens isn’t an expensive place to visit compared to other European destinations, especially outside of the high summer season when prices rise significantly.

  • Hostel dorm room: approx. €26 per night
  • Basic room for two: €36–128, depending of style of hotel and location
  • Self-catering apartment: €65 per day
  • Public transport ticket: €1.20 for a 90-minute journey, €10 from the airport, €4.10 for a day pass, €20 for a three-day pass including one airport journey, €8.10 for a five-day pass (not including airport)
  • Coffee: €2–2.50
  • Typical Greek gyros with salad and fries: €2–3
  • Dinner for two: €30 (add €2.50 for beer or wine)
  • Beer at a pub: €2.50+

What do I need to know before going to Athens?

Bring layers, no matter the season 

As Athens is located on the coast, it’s sticky in the summer and quite chilly in the spring, fall and winter evenings. Layers are always a good idea: think T-shirts, light sweaters and a jacket for the cooler months. For the really hot summer months, bring a sports cooling towel to wrap around your neck to cool off as you explore.

Be aware of your belongings on the metro

As with any capital or big city, pickpockets can take advantage of large tourist crowds, especially on crowded public transport. Avoid hanging large cameras around your neck and keep your backpack in front of you. You may also want to invest in a hanging cord for your cell phone to loop across your body so it can’t be snatched from your hands.

No flushing toilet paper!

The plumbing in Athens is antiquated and the pipes tend to be very narrow. Flushing paper down the toilet will clog things up, so you’ll always find a bin with bag inside it in the bathroom for you to place toilet paper inside. This is removed daily by housekeeping.

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Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Ultimate Athens Guide – Plan Your Trip To Athens

This Ultimate Guide to Athens reveals the best of the city. From where to stay near the Acropolis, to sightseeing in Athens, this Athens guide helps you plan the perfect city break.

The Ultimate Guide to Athens - Everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Athens.

Explore Athens when you Visit Greece

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. It is one of the world's oldest cities, and with a population of over 3 million, it is also one of the largest metropolitan areas in Europe. Situated in the Attica region on the Saronic Gulf, Athens has been continuously inhabited for more than 3,000 years.

Named after the Greek Goddess Athena, its long history has influenced Western Civilization in fields such as philosophy, mathematics, and the arts. The ancient sites of Athens such as the Acropolis and world class museums such as the National Archaeological Museum make it a must-see destination for a history buff.

If you're planning on spending time in Athens when you visit Greece, this guide has all the information you need.

Related: What is Athens known for?

Athens Trip Planner

I've been living in and writing about Athens for over 8 years now. During this time, I've created a lot of travel guides for Athens!

To make finding it all easier, I created this Ultimate Guide to Athens . Hopefully this can help you plan the perfect trip to Athens.

The idea is that these cover all the basics you need to know when putting a travel itinerary together. You'll find practical information such as how to get from the airport, as well as guides on the best things to see and do in Athens.

I suggest bookmarking this Athens travel blog post so you can come back to it from time to time.

How long do you need in Athens?

2 or 3 days is about the right amount of time for most visitors to spend in Athens. It allows for plenty of sightseeing in the historic center at the Acropolis and Agora, the chanve to experience the rooftop bars of Athens at night, and even a side trip or two to places like Cape Sounion.

Read in more detail here: How many days do you really need in Athens

Plan Your Trip To Athens

This Athens travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip to the Greek capital. There's also more useful travel blog posts linked throughout the article.

athens greece travel brochure

Best Time To Visit Athens Greece: City Break Guide For 2022

Step one to planning your trip to Athens is choosing the best time of year. Athens makes a surprisingly interesting winter city break destination, but is most popular during the summer. This travel guide takes you through month by month, so you know what to expect when visiting Athens.

athens greece travel brochure

Where to stay in Athens

If you are only staying in Athens for a few days, it makes the most sense to stay in or near the historic centre. By staying in the heart of the capital city of Greece, you'll be able to easily walk to all the attractions and ancient ruins such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, Parliament Building, National Gardens, and more. This guide introduces you to the best hotels near the Acropolis.

athens greece travel brochure

Getting from Athens airport to the city

Once you've landed at Athens airport, you'll need to get into the city centre. Your options include taxi, metro and bus. This guide explains them all to make your life easier!

athens greece travel brochure

How To Get From Piraeus To Athens Centre

Not everyone arrives in Athens via the airport. Some arrive at Piraeus Port. This travel guide will help you choose between taking a taxi, bus or the metro to get from Piraeus to Athens centre.

athens greece travel brochure

Top 10 Things To Do In Athens

Unsure of what to see in Athens? This article acts as a quick guide to the top 10 things to do in Athens, Greece.

athens greece travel brochure

Athens in a day Itinerary

If you only have one day in Athens, this one day Athens itinerary will help you make the most of your stay. Click continue reading for an easy to follow one day Athens itinerary.

athens greece travel brochure

2 Days in Athens Itinerary

If you're staying longer in Athens, this 2 day guide is ideal. I actually use this myself when friends and families come over to visit and I show them around. This is the best itinerary of Athens for a short break, as you'll get to see the most important places such as the Ancient Acropolis as well as cool out of the way places to get a taste of contemporary Greek culture.

athens greece travel brochure

Athens 3 Day Itinerary - What to do in Athens in 3 days

A comprehensive guide to sightseeing Athens in 3 days. This 3 day itinerary will take you to all the main highlights and a few hidden gems.

athens greece travel brochure

  • Athens Walking Tours

Whether you are looking for guided walking tours in Athens, or routes you can follow yourself, this article is for you! Combine these walking tours with any of the itineraries mentioned for the ultimate trip to Athens.

athens greece travel brochure

Top 5 Museums in Athens

There's over 80 museums in Athens to choose from, and whilst I haven't been to them all yet, I'm getting close! Narrowing them down to the top 5 was no easy task, but I got there in the end!

athens greece travel brochure

Day Trips From Athens

There are numerous day trips from Athens to choose from. These include day tours to Delphi, Cape Sounion, Mycenae, Hydra, and Meteora.

athens greece travel brochure

The Best Neighborhoods in Athens for Urban Explorers

A look at all the neighborhoods in Athens, and the things to see and do there. Includes information about visiting Exarchia in Athens.

athens greece travel brochure

What to see in Athens - Buildings and Landmarks in Athens

This is a comprehensive guide to almost every major building in Athens, covering over 3000 years! From the Acropolis to Neoclassical buildings in Athens, this guide reveals places in the Greek capital that even Greeks are not aware of!

athens greece travel brochure

How to get from Athens to Santorini - 2022 Travel Guide

Do you want to go to the Greek islands after sightseeing in Athens? For anyone planning to visit Santorini after Athens, this guide is essential reading. It goes into full detail about the options you have from getting from Athens to Santorini, which airlines to look for, and how to find and book a ferry to Santorini from Athens.

Best Time To Visit Athens

Athens is a city you can visit at any time of year. Certainly, some months are better than others though when it comes to weather and the amount of other tourists visiting!

Monastiraki Square in Athens - Athens in focus

In my opinion, the very best month to visit Athens is September. The temperatures are just starting to dip down from their summer highs, and Athenians have returned from their vacations full of life and energy.

There's lots happening in September – from art exhibitions to gigs and events.

The second best month to visit Athens (again in my opinion!) is August. Now, I know this goes against the grain a little, as Greece is traditionally crazy busy in August, but hear me out!

In August, Athenians head for the islands for their summer vacations. This means that the city is super-quiet and peaceful. Rumour has it, you can even find parking spaces in Athens in August!

  • When to visit Athens

You might find these blog posts on when to visit Athens useful:

  • Athens in September
  • Athens in August
  • Tips for traveling to Greece
  • Is Athens safe?

Where To Stay In Athens

Athens has literally thousands of hotels to choose from, which can make it slightly confusing when choosing where to stay .

For visitors only spending a few days in Athens, I would suggest a central location is the best choice.

By staying at a hotel near the Acropolis , you will be near all the main attractions of the historic centre, and be able to maximise your time in the city.

Acropolis guided tour

Athens also has a selection of budget hotels to choose from, which are outside of the historic centre. To be honest, these are located in the less salubrious parts of town.

You are definitely sacrificing comfort to save a few bucks, but if this is your thing, look for Athens hotels near Omonia and Victoria metro stations.

I'm also asked from time to time about hotels near Athens airport. There's really only one choice here, which is the Sofitel .

Places to stay in Athens

You might find these in-depth Athens guide articles about where to stay in Athens useful.

  • Where to stay in Athens near the Acropolis
  • Budget hotels in Athens
  • Hotels near Athens airport

 How to get to Athens city center

Most visitors to Athens arrive at two main points of entry. These are Athens airport and Piraeus port. There are numerous transport options available to get from the airport to Athens city centre and from Piraeus Port to the centre. I've written two detailed guides which includes taxi, train and bus options:

  • How to get from Athens airport to city center
  • How to get from Athens Airport to Piraeus 
  • How to get from Piraeus to Athens center

Things to see in Athens

So now you've got into Athens and have somewhere to stay, it's time to work out what you want to see! Athens has an endless amount of things to do, so there's no way you can possibly see it all. Even with a month, you couldn't see all the museums – there's over 80 of them!

The Changing of the Guards in Athens

Coming to a balance of choosing what to do in Athens with the time you have to hand is key. Fortunately, I've got some great Athens guides to help!

My ‘What to see in 2 days in Athens' guide has proven to be very useful for visitors, and can easily be expanded upon by adding extra things in.

I've also got guides to the museums in Athens, walking tours, and inside tips. Here's some guides on what to do in Athens to get you started.

Athens Guides

  • 2 Days in Athens
  • 4 days in Athens
  • Ancient Athens
  • The Ancient Agora of Athens
  • The Panathenaic Stadium in Athens
  • Walking tours in Athens
  • Museums in Athens
  • Athens inside tips
  • Exploring Alternative Athens
  • Things you must do in Athens
  • Hop On Hop Off Athens Bus

Finally, if you are planning on spending longer in the city, you'll want to consider some day trip from Athens. There are numerous archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage sites you can visit on a day tour from Athens, including Delphi, Mycenae, and even Meteora.

Most of these you can do on a tour if you wish, or you could hire a car in Athens and drive yourself. I think a road trip is a great way to explore this fascinating country! Here's some more information on day trips you can make from Athens.

  • Best Cities In Greece
  • A guide to day trips from Athens
  • Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
  • Vravrona Archaeological Site
  • A day trip to Delphi
  • Greek island trips to Hydra, Poros and Aegina
  • Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio

Please pin this Athens Guide for later!

Athens Greece: The Ultimate Athens guide - What to do, where to stay and what to see when in Athens, Greece.

I hope you've enjoyed this ultimate guide to Athens. If you are planning a trip, and have any questions or would like to leave me a message, please comment below. I would love to hear from you!

Trip to Athens FAQ

Here are some common questions readers have when planning an Athens vacation:

How many days do you need to see Athens?

2 or 3 days is enough time to see all the major highlights of Athens such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus, and to also experience its contemporary side and wonderful food scene.

What to do in Athens in 3 days?

Some of the main attractions you can see during an Athens 3 day vacation include: The Parthenon, the ancient theatre of Dionysos, Herodus Atticus theatre, the Acropolis museum, the temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch. the Plaka district, and the temple of Hephaestus in the Ancient Agora.

Is Athens expensive to visit?

The biggest expenses for travelers planning to visit Athens are accommodation and entrance ticket fees. Food and drink is very cheap by European standards, and the metro system is also very affordable. 

Can I drink the water in Athens?

The water in Athens is safe to drink, although people used to filtered or bottled water may not like the taste. If you prefer bottled water, the prices from stores and kiosks are regulated, meaning that a 500ml bottle of water costs 50 cents or less.

Related Athens blog posts:

  • Best Time to Visit Athens
  • Where to Stay in Athens
  • How to get from Athens Airport to the center
  • The Best Places to Eat in Athens
  • The Best Museums in Athens
  • Athens Tours
  • Day Trips from Athens

Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

2 thoughts on “Ultimate Athens Guide – Plan Your Trip To Athens”

What an awesome site with such helpful information. We (family of 6) are visiting this month for 7 day, really only 5 bc arrival and departure days doesn’t really count. It seems like this might be a long time to stay in Athens so we are looking for some day trips. We are trying to balance guided tours and what we can do on our own. I like your 2 days in Athens and we will do this and might stretch it out over 3 days. Other things I believe we would like to do is the Tour of St. Paul’s travels ( which I think includes Corith) and a trip Meteora. Are these things we can do on our own or would you suggest a guided tour? What would be your top things for a 5-day trip?

Hi Steve, I hope you are well! It sounds like you’d prefer tours with a religious edge? If so, I think Meteora is an absolute must – I’d recommend a two day trip though rather than a one day trip. This one also combines visiting Delphi – Delphi and Meteora If you’re interested in planning the Meteora trip yourself, then this article here might help – Athens to Meteora . For the Corinth themed tour, I’ve not taken one myself so can’t comment directly on the tour. However, I would say that the archaeology is disappointing visually when compared to the Acropolis or Delphi. One final suggestion for a day trip from Athens to see islands, would be the 3 islands trip. It can be a little rushed, but if it’s your only chance to see some islands, perhaps it could be worth it? More info here – 3 islands trip from Athens . My personal choice would be: Athens Athens Meteora Trip (includes Delphi) Meteora Trip 3 islands trip

Have a great trip to Greece!

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Athens Greece

The historic capital of greece, your travel guide to athens greece.

Athens is the capital city of Greece, birthplace of democracy and the most famous city of the Ancient World. It is a city bringing together past, present and future in a truly unique way. With the ancient ruins and temples of thousands of years ago standing side by side with the new modern buildings and infrastructure such as the Metro, Athens is the perfect example of living and breathing history.

Athens is home to some of the most important ancient and archaeological sites in the world. The most famous of course, is the Parthenon, which is situated at the top of the Acropolis rock that dominates the city. Visited by nearly every visitor to Athens, this unique structure is one that both amazes and inspires.

The peak of the Golden Age of Athens (5th Century BC) saw it as the centre of world, full of the greatest writers, most skilled sculptors and distinguished philosophers. People of the city flocked to the theatre so see that latest tragedy by Socrates, and the artistic skills of the Athenians was something that was shared by all. Political ideals, architecture, sculpture and art, philosophy and literature are just some of the symbols of the ancient city of Athens.

What is so impressive about the Golden Age is that even though now the importance of Athens has greatly diminished, the remains of the great historic city are still there for all to see. As well as the Parthenon , there are many other temples, ruins and remains scattered around the city that are visited by millions of visitors every year.

Parthenon in Athens Greece

Arriving in Athens

Arriving in Athens

Arriving in Athens for the first time might seem daunting, but it is very easy to travel onward to your hotel or destination from the airport of Athens or the ports. Arriving

Travelling Around

Travelling Around Athens

Public transport in the city has improved greatly over the years, and it has never been more easier to travel around Athens by using either the bus, Tram or Metro. Travelling

Athens Hotels

Hotels in Athens

You will find a huge selection of accommodation in Athens, with lots of places to stay right in the centre, as well as at some of the other parts of the city. Hotels in Athens

Foreign Embassies

Embassies in Athens

You never know what might happen when you are overseas on holiday, so it's worth knowing where your embassy or consulate is located in the city, just in case. Foreign Embassies

Tours in Athens

Take a look at the huge selection of athens tours, excursions and experiences you can enjoy during your visit to the greek capital., holidays to athens - visitor guide to the city.

Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens

In addition to the Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon, there are many other popular monuments such as the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are just a few of the sites that Athens has to offer.

There are lots of great things to do in Athens that visitors will be spoilt for choice. There is something for everyone, whether you are travelling along, with a partner or with children.

During the hot summer months you can find shade in the beautiful National Gardens. As you take a walk around the gardens and admire the beautiful flowers and plants, you can find a bench under the shade of the trees grab a few minutes of peace, or read a book.

The beautiful Plaka district, located around the base of the Acropolis is filled with old houses and shops, as well as a fine selection of coffee shops and tavernas where you can sit back and enjoy a drink or meal. There is something quite special about enjoying a meal with friends or loved ones in a local taverna with the Acropolis looming overhead.

There are many winding roads you can walk through in Plaka and Anafiotika, that it is pretty easy to forget that you are actually in a city of 5 million, rather than on a small island.

Athens, like so many areas in Greece, is a place that really needs to be explored to be fully appreciated. If you arrive with the idea that once you have been up to the Parthenon, you have done and seen it all, then you will be very much mistaken.

There are many beautiful districts in Athens where you can enjoy an afternoon walk, or an evening meal. The Psiri area is very popular for restaurants and nightlife, and it a very popular part of the city, especially during the weekend.

Another very beautiful place to visit is that of Mikrolimano in Piraeus. You will find a stunning setting with the colourful harbour where you can enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many cafe bars or restaurants that are located all around the lovely harbour. This is a very popular destination for residents of Athens, and it is a place that is starting to become popular with visitors to the city.

As well as the historic center, there are many other beautiful parts of Athens that you can visit. Along the southern coast, known as the Athens Riviera, you will find lots of great beaches, nightclubs and places to enjoy a drink right next to the sea. The suburbs of Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni are home to some of the best nightlife and entertainment in the city, as well as having some excellent beaches.

If you continue to follow the coast heading south, you'll pass through some very popular coastal resorts such as Varkiza and Anavissos. At the southern most point, you'll reach cape Sounion, which is home to Sounion where you'll find the stunning Temple of Poseidon. Sunsets here are some of the best in Athens, and the journey along the coast is a very relaxing and enjoyable one.

The real Athens lies in the small winding roads, the tiny cafes in the back streets, the people of the city and the chaos of everyday Athenian life. This is the Athens that visitors should try to seek out if they want to truly gain an insight into the real Athens, and the magic and beauty that lies beneath the “glossy travel brochure image” of the city.

History of Athens

History of Athens

The history of Athens goes back thousands of years, with the city first being inhabited more than 8000 years ago, and which then went on to became the birthplace of democracy. Athens History

Athens Attractions

Attractions & Sightseeing in Athens

Athens is filled with amazing tourist attractions and sites to see including the ancient agora, Hadrian's Arch, the National Gardens, Zappeion and lots more interesting places. Attractions

The Acropolis

The Acropolis of Athens

The symbol of Athens is the world famous Acropolis, crowned with the majestic Parthenon temple on top. Read about the history of this stunning piece of ancient architecture. Acropolis & Parthenon

Museums in Athens

Museums of Athens

There are lots of fascinating museums located all around the city where you can find out more about the history of Athens and Greece, as well as about other cultures. Athens Museums

Acropolis of Athens

The acropolis is the most famous site in greece and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to see the parthenon - this historic monument to ancient greece, athens blog posts.

Take a look at our latest Athens Blog posts from our travel blog of Greece and see what's happening in the city

New Years Eve 2023 at the SNFCC

New Years Eve 2023 at the SNFCC

Oktoberfest in Athens

Oktoberfest in Athens

Athens Sailing Trips and Day Cruises

Athens Sailing Trips and Day Cruises

Explore the Heart of Athens Greece

The historic centre of Athens Greece is a vibrant and captivating collection of neighbourhoods that will transport you back in time. Here, ancient ruins coexist harmoniously with modern-day amenities, creating a unique atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your visit.

Athens is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, and the historic centre stands as a testament to this. From the birthplace of democracy at the Ancient Agora to the awe-inspiring Acropolis, this neighbourhood offers a fascinating journey through time. As you explore the ruins, envision the lives of ancient Greeks and marvel at the architectural wonders that have withstood the test of time.

Venture through the labyrinthine streets of Plaka, the beating heart of Athens. This neighbourhood is a delight to wander, with its charming neoclassical buildings, vibrant bougainvillaea-clad balconies, and picturesque squares.

Lose yourself in the narrow alleys, discovering quaint shops selling traditional crafts, inviting cafes where you can savour Greek delicacies, and cosy tavernas offering a taste of authentic Greek cuisine.

Monastiraki Square in Athens

As you continue your exploration, don't miss Monastiraki, a bustling neighbourhood brimming with energy. Here, you'll find the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, a treasure trove of antiques, souvenirs, and quirky finds. Lose yourself amidst the vibrant stalls, bargaining for unique mementoes to take back home. Nearby, you'll encounter the ancient Roman Agora, where history comes alive through the well-preserved ruins. Climb the steps of the Tower of the Winds and marvel at its intricate design, offering a glimpse into the ancient Greeks' remarkable engineering skills.

Psiri is a neighbourhood that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once a gritty, industrial district, it has blossomed into a trendy and artistic hub. Psiri is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues dotting its streets. As the sun sets, the area comes alive with the sounds of laughter, clinking glasses, and live performances. The narrow streets are lined with colourful street art, independent boutiques, and hip cafes where you can enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee. It's a place that effortlessly blends the old and the new, offering a glimpse into the evolving cultural landscape of Athens.

On the other hand, Thissio exudes a more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, this neighbourhood offers breathtaking views of the ancient ruins and the city below. Thissio is known for its green spaces, including the beautiful Thissio Park, where you can relax, take a stroll, or enjoy a picnic while taking in stunning views. The pedestrianized Apostolou Pavlou Street is a popular gathering place, lined with charming cafes and tavernas. It's the perfect spot to savour a delicious meal while basking in the historical ambience of Athens. Thissio is also home to the Ancient Agora, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, where you can explore the ruins and immerse yourself in ancient history.

The historic centre of Athens is a captivating blend of ancient history and contemporary charm. With its enchanting neighbourhoods, ancient ruins, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a truly immersive experience. So, wander its streets, discover its hidden gems, and let yourself be captivated by the timeless allure of this remarkable neighbourhood. Athens awaits you with open arms, ready to weave its spell of history, culture, and warm Greek hospitality.

Monastiraki

Neighbourhood of Monastiraki

Situated in the heart of Athens, the vibrant neighborhood of Monastiraki breathes life into the ancient city. Steeped in history and bustling with energy, it captivates both locals and tourists alike. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you'll encounter a seamless fusion of the old and the new. Explore Monastiraki

Neighbourhood of Plaka

Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, the enchanting neighborhood of Plaka in Athens exudes an irresistible charm. Step into its streets, and you'll be transported to a bygone era. Cobbled pathways, neoclassical buildings, and colorful bougainvillea create a picturesque backdrop that is straight out of a postcard. Explore Plaka

Neighbourhood of Psiri

As you wander through its lively streets, you'll be captivated by the colorful street art that adorns the buildings, showcasing the neighborhood's rebellious character. Psiri is a haven for artists, musicians, and performers, with hidden art galleries and underground music venues waiting to be discovered. Explore Psiri

Neighbourhood of Thissio

Located between the iconic Acropolis and the lively neighborhood of Monastiraki, Thissio in Athens is a picturesque neighborhood that seamlessly blends history, nature, and urban charm. With its panoramic views, leafy parks, and ancient ruins, Thissio offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Explore Thissio

Hotels in Athens

Search and book your accommodation in athens and the athenian riviera for your stay in greece, beyond the city centre of athens, athenian riviera.

The Athenian Riviera

The Athenian Riviera, a captivating coastal stretch near Athens, offers a blend of natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and vibrant beachfront towns. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and breathtaking views, it entices sun-seekers and those seeking an escape from the busy and noisy city. Athens Riviera

City of Piraeus

City and Port of Piraeus

Piraeus, the bustling city and port near Athens, holds a significant place in Greek history and serves as the main gateway to the Greek islands. Today, Piraeus is a vibrant destination with a unique character, offering diverse neighborhoods, bustling markets, and a rich local culture. Piraeus

Northern Suburbs

Northern Suburbs of Athens

The Northern Suburbs of Athens offer a refreshing escape from the bustling city center, presenting a harmonious blend of natural beauty, upscale neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. It boasts a collection of charming towns and picturesque neighborhoods such as Kifissia and Ekali. North Athens

Temple of Poseidon in Sounio

Sounio, a coastal gem located just a short drive from Athens, captivates travelers with its timeless beauty and rich history. Perched on the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, this enchanting destination offers a harmonious blend of ancient ruins, beaches and breathtaking natural landscapes. Cape Sounio

Guía turística de Athens

Are you planning to travel to Athens? We can help! Introducing Athens includes up to date information on the best touristic attractions , where to stay or the best areas to eat out .

Athens Travel Guide

  • General Information
  • Top Attractions
  • Getting to Athens
  • Public Transport
  • How to Save
  • Where to eat
  • Where to Stay
  • 2-day itinerary

Athens is the capital of Greece and the country’s cultural, political, and economical hub. Birthplace of renowned artists and philosophers throughout antiquity , ancient Greek democracy had a deep influence on the design of other political institutions around the world.

There is no place quite like Athens to dive into Ancient Greece and learn about magnificent temples and imposing buildings that have remained standing for centuries.

Tourism in Athens

Athens was founded over 5,000 years ago and certain of its inhabitants have influenced the development of western culture.

The city’s numerous historic monuments make it a fascinating place to visit for tourists from all over the world . The Parthenon , the Acropolis , and the Ancient Agora are some of the most famous examples of ancient Greek buildings.

Although not all landmarks are beautifully preserved, the sum of them is surprisingly harmonious, a peculiar feature of classic architecture. Visitors will be left breathless and amazed.    

Athens has a lot to offer (not only impressive monuments), including an appetizing and varied Mediterranean cuisine . Colorful vegetables, juicy meat, and tasty cheese are only three elements of a long list of varied delicacies prepared in the purest Greek style. 

A holiday in Athens is never complete without a day trip to some of its nearby towns and villages .

How to organize your trip?

Before planning your travel, why not learn about the history of Athens and then check out the entry requirements for Greece? Once you know the basic information , then check out the most-visited tourist attractions and museums before booking your hotel and flights .

Book your hotel in advance

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we suggest visiting our search engine , where you’ll find all types of hotels, hostels, and apartments with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to a 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

  • Accommodation in Athens - find the best deals

top activities

Enjoy the very best of Greek cuisine  on this food tour of Athens. You'll sample some of the most traditional dishes!

3-Day Classical Greece Tour Discover Classic Greece by visiting Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia & Delphos on this 3-day tour. You'll also see ancient cities like Corinth & Arachova!

On our  guided tour of the Acropolis of Athens , we'll explore this  iconic Greek temple complex  - a must if you visit the capital of Greece!

Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus Day Trip Explore Classical Greece on a trip to the Corinth Canal, Epidaurus & Mycenae. You'll delve into Greek history & culture by discovering the  Argolis peninsula .

Acropolis Museum Athens Ticket If you want to discover  Ancient Greek  culture , with this  ticket to the  Acropolis Museum , you'll admire numerous ancient artefacts from Ancient Greece.

Ticket to the Acropolis of Athens With this entrance to the Acropolis in Athens you'll be able to visit one of the most emblematic places of Ancient Greece . Visit the landmarks of ancient Athens

City Tour + Acropolis & the Museum Tour Athens & visit the Acropolis and its museum , one of the most important museums of the capital of Greece. Ideal for first-time visitors!

Acropolis & Museum Ticket + Audioguide Visit two of  Athens's most renowned sights  by reserving your  ticket and audioguide for the Acropolis and its accompanying museum.

Electric Bike Tour of Athens Explore Athens on an electric bike ! With this guided cycling tour, we'll experience the rich history and culture of this fascinating place.

Tourist Bus to Cape Sounion On the tourist bus to Cape Sunion you'll travel to one of the most important places of Greek mythology and you'll have an audio guide in English .

Free Walking Tour of Athens Live and breathe the five thousand-year history of Athens, the foundation of European culture itself, in search of the traces of Plato, Archimedes and Zeus.

Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Explore the capital of Greece with style on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus . Learn about the history and culture of Athens as you admire its landmarks

On this tour of ancient Athens and the Acropolis , we'll travel back in time to explore the Greek capital. We'll the Parthenon , Agora , Monastiraki , and Plaka .

Delphi Day Trip Embark on a day trip to Delphi & discover what was once believed to be the center of the world , now one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Agistri, Moni and Aegina Cruise Traveling to Athens & don’t know what islands to visit? On this day trip to Agistri, Moni and Aegina , swim in crystalline waters & enjoy stunning landscapes.

Meteora Day Trip Visit the  Meteora Monasteries , spectacular buildings that are perched on sandstone rock formations, on this excursion from Athens !

Athens City and Acropolis Guided Tour Join a 3.5-hour guided tour of Athens in which you’ll discover the city’s main attractions and visit the impressive Acropolis with an expert guide.

Half-Day Trip to Cape Sounion Enjoy a unique afternoon by booking a half-day trip to Cape Sounion, home to the majestic Temple of Poseidon , practically entirely surrounded by the sea.

Hydra, Poros and Aegina Full-Day Cruise Discover three beautiful Greek islands on a full-day cruise of Hydra, Poros and Aegina and enjoy a peaceful day far from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

Athens Urban Art Walking Tour Are you a lover of urban art? Discover the other side of Athens on this tour of the Psyri neighbourhood, where graffiti takes centre stage.

Athens Tuk Tuk Tour Explore Athens in a fast & unique way with this tuk tuk tour ! Plus, as a private tour, you'll be able to customize the stops according to your interests.

Discover the landmarks in Athens lit up on this night walking tour around Monastiraki Square, one of the most lively and vibrant areas in the city.

Museum of Cycladic Art Ticket The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens is home to numerous Greek and Cypriot archaeological pieces. Delve in and find out more with this ticket.

Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Learn about the contributions Ancient Greek made to science and their advanced technology with this ticket to the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology .

Greek Cooking Class Learn about Greek cuisine, learn to prepare the delicious dishes and then indulge in the mouth-watering delicacies. An unmissable cooking class in Athens!

Athens Museum Pass The  Athens Museum Pass  offers access to the best museums in the Greek capital , saving you time and money. Make the most of your trip to the ancient city!

Electric Bike Tour of the Acropolis Explore the Acropilis and have fun on an electric bike! The Parthenon, Anafiotika, Plaka and the Panathenaic Stadium are some of the famous places you'll visit.

2-Day Delphi and Meteora Trip Set off on a unique 2-day tour from Athens to two of the most stunning parts of Greece : Delphi and Meteora, both must-sees.

Classical Greece Tour: 4 Days Delve into the past and discover Ancient Greece on a 4-day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphos and Meteora with an English-speaking guide.

Athens Segway Tour Discover the Acropolis, Mars Hill, the Panathenaic Stadium and the ancient Agora on a segway and enjoy a very comfy tour of Athens.

Athens Shopping Tour Jewellery, art dealers, organic cosmetics... Let yourself be surprised by Greek fashion and enjoy this shopping tour of Kolonaki, the most luxurious area.

7 Day Greek Island Tour: Santorini, Paros & Naxos Explore three of the most beautiful places in Greece on this 7 day Greek island tour from Athens . Visit Santorini, Paros and Naxos at your own pace.

3-Day Santorini Trip If you had to choose one Greek island to visit, it's got to be Santorini ! This island offers incredible views, crystal water beaches and picturesque villages.

Authentic Athens Guided Tour Tour the Greek capital in search of its monuments and lesser-known corners with this alternative tour of Athens - a different way of discovering the greek life.

Athens Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket Make the most of your time in Athens to enjoy a unique, family-friendly activity with the Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket. Get ready to have a great time!

iVenture Card Athens With the iVenture Card Athens, you'll have access to more than 30 attractions in the Greek capital, with important discounts in shops and restaurants.

Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket With this ticket to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens , you can visit one of the biggest exhibitions about Ancient Greece in the world .

Acropolis of Athens & 6 Archaeological Sites Ticket By booking this Acropolis ticket , you'll have access to 6 archaeological sites  in the surrounding area, such as Hadrian's Library and the Olympian .

Acropolis & 6 Sites Tickets The jewels of the classic age await you in Athens. To visit them, waste no time in booking your ticket for the Acropolis  and 6 archaeological excavation sites .

Santorini and Milos 5-Day Tour This 5-day tour around Santorini and Milos is the perfect plan to explore two of the most  beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea . 

Paros and Naxos 5-Day Tour If you're in Athens and want to visit the Cyclades , this 5-day trip to Paros and Naxos is perfect for you. An unforgettable trip around   the  Aegean Sea !

Ticket to the Acropolis + Museum With this combo ticket, you'll be able to visit the world-famous Acropolis in Athens and enjoy the wonderful art housed in its museum.

Santorini + Paros 5-Day Tour On this 5-day tour of Santorini and Paros from Athens, you'll visit two of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades archipelago . You'll love it!

Sunset Electric Bike Tour in Athens Embark on an enchanting sunset electric bike tour of Athens , pedaling past iconic landmarks with the mesmerizing sunset as your backdrop.

Athens Riviera Electric Scooter Tour Explore the Athens Riviera in a fast, fun, and comfortable way on this electric scooter tour. You'll be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the Attica coast!

Athens Hills Hike Visit the most impressive viewpoints in the Greek capital on this Athens Hills Hike. We'll admire views of the city from places like Mount Lycabettus.

Hard Rock Cafe Athens Have lunch or dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe Athens and enjoy delicious American-inspired dishes while listening to the best rock music.

Acropolis Entrance Ticket & Audio Guide Want to delve into classical Greece ? Then put on your headphones to explore the Acropolis as it once stood with this audio guide ticket .

Arachova Day Trip The most beautiful village at the foot of Mount Parnassus awaits us on this day trip to Arachova from Athens . Its history and landscapes will amaze you!

On this excursion to Mykonos from Athens, we'll take a ferry to and from the island , one of the most beautiful in Greece. An unforgettable day at sea!

On this kayak tour along the coast of Athens , we'll discover the beaches in Attica . Plus, you'll be able to swim and relax in one of these heavenly coves.

Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise On this sunset cruise along the Athens Riviera , you'll admire one of the lesser-known Greek coastlines as it's being tinged with orange and gold.

Mykonos and Santorini: 4 Days On this four day tour we'll visit two of the most famous Greek islands, Mykonos and Santorini. Two unmissable, unforgettable destinations!

Dinner in the Sky in Athens Enjoy  spectacular views over the ancient city of Athens while you delight your taste bus with a gourmet meal served 40 metres in the sky.

Agistri, Metopi & Perdika Island Cruise Cruise with us around the stunning islands of Agistri, Metopi, and Perdika . Each has its unique charm, and you'll be able to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

5-Day Mykonos & Santorini Package Mykonos & Santorini are two  of the most famous islands in Greece & the world thanks to their beaches & lively nightlife. Explore them on this 5-day trip!

Why is our Athens travel guide better?

Introducing Athens has been written by experienced travelers who wish to help you plan your holidays to this enticing city in the best possible way, saving money and learning about everyday tips to make your trip memorable.

The information provided in this guide was updated in November 2022 . If you find a mistake or would like to make a suggestion , please do not hesitate to   contact us .

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Our travel guides

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athens greece travel brochure

2024 Athens Travel Guide: Explore Greece's Capital Like a Local

athens greece travel brochure

Key Takeaways :

  • Athens is a fabulous year-round destination and following this Athens travel guide will reveal why.
  • Central Athens is the best place to stay when visiting the Greek capital.
  • The Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus are some of the most significant archaeological sites of the city.
  • A walk around the historical center will allow you to admire the landmarks and architecture of Athens .

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The enchanting view of sunny Athens, Greece,  from the top of the Acropolis . The sparkling waters of the city's extraordinary beaches.

The luscious taste of traditional Greek and Athens flavors . The buoyant nightlife and the overpowering sense of freedom its diversity gives you.

All that and many more are why an Athens travel guide will become the most significant tool during a trip to Greece,  even for the most experienced travelers .

There is no doubt that you won't help but fall in love with Athens, the largest city in Greece, from the moment you step foot in it, whether you're visiting Greece in winter or summer. The Greek islands can wait; visit Athens, and you won't regret straying from the path of other travelers!

If exploring Athens seems like a daunting task, it's because it is: there is much stuff to see, taste, do, and experience and even the locals get overwhelmed from time to time.

But, lucky for you, we have accumulated the ultimate Athens travel guide for you to experience the historic city to the fullest; as born and bred Athenians in love with their home city, it is our responsibility to make you see Athens from rose-colored glasses, even if you are first-time visitors.  

So if you want Athens travel tips, keep on reading!

When to travel to Athens

Greece is mainly advertised as a summer destination. The reasons why make a strong case: its delightfully warm climate, sandy beaches, and hundreds of breathtaking Greek islands are more than enough to deem Greece the ultimate summer haven people dream of visiting.

However, although no one can deny the beauty of the Greek islands and the mainland under the bright sunlight, it is common ground that during the high-season period between late June and late August, Greece -and some of the Greek islands in particular- attract too much attention and get overwhelmingly crowded, which may affect your overall experience.

If you're an extroverted, social individual that draws energy from the crowds, don't think twice when booking your summer holidays. However, if you prefer a more offbeat scene, you're probably better off opting for late spring or early autumn for your holidays.

In spring and autumn

Anywhere between late April and the beginning of June or the whole month of September in Athens will allow you to experience the blissful Greek summer unobstructed by the hustle and bustle of the tourist waves flooding the country; the best of both worlds!

On the other hand, this Athens travel guide will reveal to you a well-kept secret: Greece can also serve as an exquisite winter destination. Greece in January is superb, not to mention that Christmas in Greece is out of this world!

Apart from the numerous Greek islands, the country's mainland hides regions of incomparable beauty. What's more, Athens is a gorgeous all-year-round destination that will give you plenty of tour options and activity alternatives.  

Therefore, it is guaranteed that the diversity of the Greek land and Athens, in particular, offers a unique landscape that can wow even the most experienced of travelers. 

Where to stay in Athens

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Spoiler alert: Athens is a big city; remember: it even hosted the largest temple of the ancient world. As a result, although it is easy to navigate, as, with any trip and destination, accommodation is a crucial issue in determining whether you'll experience your host city most advantageously.

Of course, choosing to reside in central Athens is the most brilliant move you can make; you'll be within walking distance of the most important landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum , and probably right next to a means of public transportation from where you'll be able to explore the rest of the city.

If you're more of a practical person, here are our top Athens travel guide hotel recommendations for downtown Athens, Greece, depending on the district you choose to be based on and the amount of luxury you want. It also includes some of the best romantic hotels in Athens , the best luxury hotel in Athens , and beach hotels in Athens , so make sure to take notes!

Please note that all rooms have electrical outlets in Greece, which may not be compatible with your devices. For that reason, it'd be wise to bring an adaptor with you to be on the safe side:

For 5-star hotels

In Syntagma

Electra Metropolis

Athens Capital Center

In Acropolis and Plaka

Electra Palace Athens

Athens Was Hotel

AVA Hotel & Suites

Divani Palace Acropolis

COCO-Mat Athens BC Hotel

For 4-star hotels

Elia Ermou 

Electra Hotel

Blend Hotel

Perianth Hotel

Athens Ikon

Athens Gate Hotel

Niche Hotel Athens

Herodion Hotel

For 3-star hotels

Niki Athens Hotel

Attalos Hotel

Acropolis View Hotel

Acropolis Hill Hotel

Philippos Hotel

Acropolis Select  

Of course, you can always check our Greek hotels  page, where we showcase the best hotels all over Athens and the rest of the country. Even more than this Athens travel guide mentions.  

Where to go 

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Now that is a loaded question. There are such a plethora of places in Athens that deserve your time and attention that no matter how many days you may have at your disposal, you're guaranteed to fill them to the brim, as in Athens, you can find some of the best deals regarding sightseeing adventures.

Covering all possible fields, from history, nature, the most Instagram-friendly spots in Athens, and the top walking routes in Athens , to the cultural, gastronomical, architectural, and entertainment treasures the Greek capital offers in abundance, everyone is bound to find what they're looking for and then some!  

In an effort to avoid overwhelming you with my boundless rambling, in this Athens travel guide, we've broken down the places in Athens, Greece, you should unquestionably visit in the categories below. Organized much?

Top Athens Attractions

A bit about athens' history in ancient greece.

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First and foremost, as you've probably already guessed, comes the rich heritage of Athens that goes back to ancient Greece, evident in every corner of the city. Athens’ history begins in the Neolithic and Mycenaean times.

The ancient city was built in the middle of the basin, around the hills of Pnyka hill, Areopagus (Mars Hill), and Philopappou Hill. You can read more about it in our Athens travel guide .

The Parthenon , the imposing temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that decorates the top of the Acropolis, became the symbol of Athenian democracy in ancient Greece and created a new model in Athens architecture.

Then, on the hill of Pnyx, Apostle Paul proclaimed in 53 AD the new religion, Christianity, in front of the members of the Supreme Court.

The first small Christian community was created under the guidance of Bishop Dionysius Areopagite , the later patron saint of our city. Finally, Athens became the capital of Greece in 1834, replacing Nafplio.

As you can see, through the years, Athens, Greece, has undergone many drastic changes that have led it to be what it is right now, offering its visitors an abundance of major landmarks in Greece from different eras.

You can read our ultimate guide to the top things to do in Athens if you need a more thorough guide around the impressive historical landmarks of the city. However, for your convenience, here is a shortlist of the most significant archaeological sites in Athens.

Our only rule of thumb for every one of them is to arrive early enough to avoid large crowds and unbearable heat.

Acropolis of Athens

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The Acropolis of Athens, often also referred to as the 'sacred rock,' is probably Athens's most widespread archeological monument of ancient Greece and one of the city's major sites.

No Athens travel guide would be complete without it. Thousands of travelers and locals climb its steep hill every year to get a glimpse of Greece's glorious past.

Since the Acropolis' establishment in the 5th century BC in honor of goddess Athena, Athens' patron and the daughter of Olympian Zeus, it has remained the most emblematic element of the capital.

Acropolis' Monuments

Perched at the top of the Acropolis of Athens, you will find the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, where the infamous battle between Poseidon and Athena allegedly took place.

At the same time, on your way to the top of the Acropolis, you will come across some of Athens' most noteworthy monuments and archaeological sites, such as the Propylaia, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus, the oldest theater in the city.

If you visit Athens' famous Acropolis hill, don't forget to combine it with a visit to the striking Acropolis Museum, which is within walking distance for a comprehensive immersion into the ancient Greek world .

Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos

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A breath of fresh air amidst the urban jungle of Athens, the Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos is ideal for long walks and, therefore, another of Athens' major sites you don't want to miss during your visit to Athens. It served as Athens' cemetery from the 12th century BC to the Roman Times.

If you visit the Kerameikos Cemetery in Athens, don't forget to also pay a visit to the Kerameikos Museum, where the findings from the excavations of the archeological site are on display, including stelae, sculptures, vases, and figurines found on the site.

Philopappos Hill

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Philopappos Hill is located southwest of Acropolis Hill, offering a mesmerizing, undisturbed view of the imposing Parthenon from one side and the whole of Athens from the other.

The hill took its current name after Philopappos, a Syrian benefactor of Athens, who was a close friend to many philosophers such as Plutarch, who described him in his writings as an 'extremely generous person.'

His death caused great sorrow to the citizens of Athens, who built a mausoleum as a dedication to honor his memory. The mausoleum survives to this day, perched on the top of the hill.

Philopappos hill is admittedly one of the best places in Athens, Greece, for long leisurely walks, especially during spring and early summer. If you take one of the hill's many pathways, you will enjoy a wide variety of flora and a rare serenity.

Who knows, maybe you'll even get to meet the famous Muses that, according to legend, used to have this hill of Athens as their home! 

Ancient Agora 

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The Ancient Agora of Athens was the heart of the ancient city: a large, open area that constituted the seat of justice, the political, economic, administrative, social, religious, and cultural center of Athens. Please beware that the Ancient and Roman agoras are sometimes mistakenly thought to be the same thing when, in fact, there are two separate archeological sites of great importance.

Ancient Agora's buildings

Excavations in Athens have brought to light many important buildings, such as the council chamber (Bouleuterion), public administration buildings (Royal Stoa and South Stoa), judges' offices, the mint, and the city's official archives (Mitroon).

Additionally, the Ancient Agora used to host the national library and the conservatory that covered the cultural requirement of the citizens.

The famous 'Stoa of Attalos' is also located within the Ancient Agora. Built by the king of Pergamon, Attalos, as a gift to the Athenians for allowing him to study there, the Stoa of Attalos became the main commercial building of Athens' Ancient Agora; it was rebuilt between 1953 and 1956 and has been used as a museum ever since.

See? Now you can tell the Ancient and Roman Agoras apart!

The Temple of Hephaestus and Athena

Another fantastic monument of the Ancient Agora in Athens we couldn't exclude in this Athens travel guide is the Temple of Hephaestus and Athena, which is also the best-preserved temple of Athens. It follows the Doric style of architecture and is located on the northwest side of the market, at the top of Agoraios Kolonos hill.

It was built with the famous Pentelic marble by the architect of the Parthenon, Iktinos, during the second half of the 5th century BC and has many sculptures in its decoration.

On the east facade are the Heracles tribes, and on the north and south sides are the tribes of Theseus. According to historical Pausanias, the temple housed bronze statues of Hephaestus and Athena.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

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The Temple of Olympian Zeus was the largest temple of Greece during the Hellenistic and Roman years, with its construction having begun in 515 BC and ending in 132 AD by Hadrian. This Roman emperor became a citizen and benefactor.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is made of Pentelic marble and follows a Corinthian architectural style. Its length exceeds 100 meters, and its width is 40. As for its famous columns, they used to be 104. In total, they were 17 meters high and 2.6 meters in diameter, each weighing 364 tons!

From 500 AD, the largest temple of antiquity gradually collapsed. The pillars of the Temple of Olympian Zeus began to fall. Until the beginning of the 19th century, only 16 were standing up, but one terrible storm in 1852 threw another one, which still stands today in the middle of the ancient ruins. 

The Arch of Hadrian

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Right across the street, within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Arch of Hadrian was erected in ancient Athens in 132 AD by the Athenians in honor of Emperor Hadrian for his various contributions, which served as a limit between the old and the new city.

The monument, 18 meters high by 13 meters wide, featured two inscriptions on the arch, facing opposite directions, naming both Theseus and Hadrian as founders of Athens. 

First time visitors to the Temple of Olympian Zeus shouldn't overlook Hadrian's arch. They are so close to one another it would really be a pity.

Please keep in mind that Hadrian's arch and Hadrian's Library are two separate historical monuments, with Hadrian's Library being located in Monastiraki square.

Panathenaic Stadium

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The Panathenaic Stadium is where the modern revival of the Olympic Games -aka the modern Olympics- took place there in 1896. Moreover, it remains where the Olympic Flame is being delivered during all Olympic games worldwide.

It is located at the site of an ancient Greek Stadium and demonstrates the key features of one: a rectangular shape with an entrance from one narrow side and a place for spectators on the slopes of the other three sides.

Despite its glamor during ancient times, it was abandoned with the predominance of the Christian religion and the banning of idolatrous events and barbarous spectacles of Roman times.

The excessive expense for the stadium's refurbishment was mainly taken over by a national benefactor, George Averoff, for whom Athens built a marble statue that today can be found to the right of the Stadium's main entrance.

Archaeological investigations since 1836 have revealed traces of the ancient stage, and the reconstruction of the Pentelic marble stadium is distinguished by its fidelity to a large extent to the monument of Herodes in ancient Athens.

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

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The Temple of Olympian Zeus is not the only impressive temple in Athens. Approximately 2 hours outside Athen's heart, you can visit Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon , a true architectural masterpiece and one of the best places in Greece to enjoy a sunset from was built around 444-440 BC.

For three centuries, the sanctuary was considered sacred, and a grandiose four-yearly festival was organized there with officials sailing the sea around it in a sacred ship. 

The vertical columns of the ruined temple, the magical landscape, and the relaxing atmosphere you can bask in at the southernmost tip of Athens, Greece, offer a romantic setting of unmatched beauty, making Sounio the perfect spot to visit in the company of your significant other.

Roman Agora

The Roman Agora is located close to the Ancient Agora, only a few hundred meters to the east. It is a rectangular courtyard full of shops and storerooms that served as the city's marketplace in ancient Athens.

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Roman Agoran, in contrast with the Ancient Agora, consisted of a large, open-air courtyard surrounded by colonnades on all four sides.

There were a series of shops on the eastern side, and on the southern side was a fountain. The main entrance was on the west, called 'Gate of Athena Archegetis,' and a second entrance was on the east.

Tower of the Winds

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Just a few meters away from the east enclosure of the Roman Agora, you can find the Tower of the Winds, a 12-meter high octagonal building, the name of which comes from the personifications of the eight winds that are sculptured on the friezes of the building's eight sides.  

Inside the construction, there is a brilliantly designed water clock. On the outside, there is a sundial and a weather vane.

Museums of Athens

It comes as no surprise that Athens has some of the most captivating museums in the world due to its abounding heritage and impressive ancient ruins that date all the way back to ancient Athens. The Acropolis alone has filled several museums around the world.

Realizing you probably don't have time to visit each and every single one of them, here we have a shortlist of our top picks that we would strongly suggest everyone visit before leaving Athens. This is not the place to save money:

The Acropolis Museum

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Yes, the obvious choice tops this list. Positioned just 280 meters away from the Parthenon, with almost 4,000 exhibits masterfully composing the permanent exhibition, the Acropolis Museum is a must-see attraction you should make time for.

Not to toot our own horn, but it is no coincidence that Acropolis Museum was ranked 11th in TripAdvisor's 25 best museums globally and has been awarded many times for its architecture!

The brilliance of the modern Acropolis museum is clear both from the outside and from the inside, as its building portrays the architectural and mathematical concepts of the classical era in ancient  Athens, consisting of four levels that accommodate the permanent and temporary exhibitions, a restaurant, a gift shop, a multimedia center, and open spaces where you can relax and enjoy the view of the glorious Acropolis.

The exhibits

The Acropolis museum exhibits include findings from the slopes of the Acropolis hill, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, along with votive offerings to Gods, worship objects, and everyday art. 

National Archaeological Museum

Believed to be one of the most excellent museums in the world alongside the Acropolis Museum due to its ample collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity, the National Archaeological Museum lies in the alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, hosted in an imposing neoclassical building painted in vibrant yellow and red colors.

Apart from its aesthetic, the National Archaeological Museum impresses its visitors with its findings.

The National Archaeological Museum covers a broad spectrum of Greek, displaying pieces from the Neolithic era, Cycladic art, Mycenaean period, Egyptian art, post-Byzantine era, and jewels from the Hellenistic period history, leaving a lasting impression on the visitors of the National Archaeological Museum.

On National Archaeological Museum's premises, you can also find one of the top Athens attractions : a 118-year-old library with 20,000 volumes, many of which are extremely rare works on art, science, and philosophy.

Unwind from your educational experience in one of the National Archaeological Museum cafés, one located outside on the edge of the square and one situated in the heart of the museum, before paying a visit to the National Archaeological Museum gift shop for various memorabilia- what a treat!

The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens

The fascinating Museum of Cycladic Art is hosted in an exquisite neoclassical building and displays an impressive Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art collection.

Its stated mission is the study of Aegean civilization, research on prehistoric, classical, and modern Greek art, as well as its dissemination and promotion.

Its remarkable collections contain approximately 3.000 objects of Cycladic, Ancient Greek, and Cypriot art. More than 500 are presented online, together with a brief introduction of the significant periods of Aegean and Cypriot archeology, essential topics, and a list of available resources.

The Benaki Museum

Another museum you can't leave off your itinerary during your trip to Athens is the famous Benaki Museum.

Founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis in memory of his father Emmanuel Benakis, the museum aims, as its website suggests, to 'preserve and make accessible as widely as possible its diverse collections; to support research onto history, archaeology and the study of material culture, architecture, photography, visual and performing arts, and literature.'

Hosted in the mansion of the Benaki family in the center of Athens, the museum exhibits Greek works of art from prehistorical to modern times while it entertains periodic exhibitions and sustains an avant-garde restoration and conservation workshop.

Over the years, the Benaki Museum has been awarded and enriched by several generous donors.  

As a result, it now includes the seaside 'Kouloura Mansion' in the southern district of Palaio Faliro that hosts Athens' Toy Museum, the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art in the neighborhood of Kerameikos, the 'Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas Gallery' in downtown Athens, the 'Benaki Museum Pireos Street Annex' on -you guessed it- Pireos Street and the 'Penelope Delta House' in Kifissia, which houses the Historical Archive Collection.

Athens Public Transportation

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In order to enjoy Athens, you first need to get to it. You don't need an Athens travel guide to tell you that. Thankfully, being the capital of Greece, Athens is pretty easy to reach regardless of where you come from and the means of private or public transportation you opt for. In any case, make sure to have travel insurance; better to be safe than sorry!

Unless you're driving to Greece  with your vehicle or a car rental , there are only two possible ways to access Athens: airplane or ferry.

In both cases, figuring your way around shouldn't be too hard since there are many signs, information stations, and willing locals to provide you with the instructions you need.

If you want to be prepared beforehand, you can follow our Athens international airport survival guide , our Piraeus port comprehensive guide , or our Rafina port survival guide , which will thoroughly educate you on how to get to your desired destination most easily and more suitably for you. 

Athens International Airport

You can reach Athens' center from Athens International Airport by boarding the X95 bus, a 24-hour express bus that terminates right next to the central Syntagma Square -on Othonos street- which doubles as the point of departure.

Still, taking the railway - both the underground (Metro) and the suburban line- is the most common and convenient way to access the center of the city. The only difference between the two means of public transportation is their terminal destination, with the suburban railway terminating outside of Athens.

Therefore, if you opt for the suburban rail, get off the train at 'Doukissis Plakentias' station and hop on the Metro for the rest of the journey to Syntagma.

Of course, grabbing a cab from Athens International Airport to Athens' city center is the easiest yet most expensive way to reach your destination.

The ride will come up to around 38€ during the daytime (05:00 – 24:00) and 54€ during the late-night and early morning hours - keep in mind that the taxi fare is double from midnight to 05.00 am.

Piraeus Port

There are many ways of reaching central Athens and its top attractions from the port of Piraeus and back. However, the user-friendly Athens Metro system is arguably one of the easiest!

All you have to do is exit Piraeus Port, take the short walk to Metro line 1 (the green one), and before you know it, you'll be walking the streets of Athens' heart.

During the summer months, because of the traffic the Greek islands have, the express tourist bus X80 runs directly from the center of Athens to the cruise terminal at Piraeus port, so depending on preference, your location, and the season you'll be visiting, you can take advantage of that as well.

Please remember that you can buy your public transport tickets at the ticket booths and ticket machines found at every station. Alternatively, download the TFA mTickets App to purchase and save tickets right to your phone.

Public Transport

When it comes to navigating the city of Athens, you have several alternatives you can choose from, including buses, the Metro (Athens subway), the ISAP (railway), and the tram.

As a quick rule of thumb, the Metro is the fastest, most modern, and most efficient one, without its competence affecting its price, as the tickets for all public transport costs the same.

Taxis 

However, if you want to waste no time figuring your way around Athens and your budget is not restricted, taking a taxi is often the way to go.

Taxi cars in Greece are yellow with a 'TAXI' sign on top; they can be found all around the city, and you can stop them by raising your hand.

When hiring a taxi, make sure the taxi meter is on, as taxi drivers are infamous for trying to overcharge their clients.

To be in the know, keep in mind that the taxi meter starts at €1.29, the minimum rate is €3.44, the rate per kilometer within the city limits is €0.74, and the rate per kilometer outside the city limits is €1.29.

To ride safely and comfortably, we highly suggest downloading the Beat app. It works exactly like Uber, with the only difference being that the rides are being delivered by professional taxi drivers who practice their profession outside the app as well.  

In any case, before reaching Athens, we highly suggest you get travel insurance to travel safely and without a worry in your mind!

Eating in central Athens 

Suppose you're familiar with Greeking.me's blog, then you know that we are die-hard foodies that take Greek gastronomy and its mind-blowing creations very seriously.

Greek cuisine is an integral part of Greek culture and an element of the country all visitors should look to try for the sake of getting acquainted with an authentic, well-rounded aspect of Greece.

From delicious and nutritious breakfast to homemade local dishes, street food, and a cult-classic cup of traditional Greek coffee, here are the absolute must-try flavors you should taste and the best places in the city to find them.

Be mindful, though; no travel insurance will cover an overly full belly!

Tip: Don't forget to check out our Athens night food tour and wine tasting tour ! We are sure you will love it.

Breakfast & Brunch

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For experienced travelers and devoted lovers of brunch, you'll be happy to know that there will be no need to ditch your favorite Sunday tradition during your time in Athens. On the contrary, you'll be presented with the favorable circumstance of trying Greek brunch dishes that put a local spin on beloved classics.

A shining example is the yummy 'Kayanas' recipe, a staple you'll stumble upon on most Athenian brunch menus. 'Kayanas' is essentially scrambled eggs cooked in olive oil with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese but can be found in many variations.

Yes, it is precisely as good as it sounds, even better actually, and if you try it, I guarantee all other types of scrambled eggs will taste bland to you.

For delectable Kayanas and other Greek brunch delicacies, you can read about the top  places for Brunch in Athens ; book a table, grab your sunglasses, and enjoy amazing brunch food in a local yard with the sun shining on you, warming your heart and body.

The Greek coffee culture

What's more, you can accompany your scrumptious food with a cup of traditional Greek Coffee, the proof that the wise saying 'less is more' applies to most things in life.

If you're a fan of a half caramel, half vanilla latte, decaf espresso heated only to 100° with nonfat milk and caramel drizzle on top, then maybe Greek coffee is not right up your street.

However, suppose you're a lover of coffee, the delicious drink responsible for the functionality of the most considerable portion of the earth's population.

In that case, I'm sure you'll appreciate the aromatic brew that has been essential in the locals' cupboards for hundreds of years, becoming part of the cultural heritage of Greece.

If you want to sip on an invigorating cup of proper Greek coffee, opt for one of the extraordinary coffee shops in Athens that will introduce you to the coffee culture of Athens and change the way you view and consume coffee for the rest of your life.

Traditional taverns 

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The general rule you should live by in Athens is simple: the more homemade local dishes you try, the merrier.

You can savor the tasty  food in Greece across the wide selection of Athens' taverns that serve long-established recipes integrated into the local culture and celebrate the riches of the Greek land.

Featuring recipes passed down through the generations; the local dishes will delight your senses regardless of your dietary plan. 

Located in the hip neighborhood of Psirri, Enastron rembles the exact image that comes to everyone's minds when hearing the phrase 'traditional Greek tavern.'

From lush homey main courses to delectable appetizers, all in generous helpings, Enastron promises to meet and exceed your culinary expectations regardless of how high they are -you're in a Mediterranean country, after all! 

Koudounaki travel guide Athens

In the same neighborhood, but this time tucked away in a small alley that gets overlooked by people who aren't in the know, Koudounaki is a family-run tavern in Athens, where two sisters put a spin on customary dishes and serve heavenly homemade offerings you've never tasted before. 

To Steki Tou Ilia

Closer to the Acropolis, in the scenic and historic district of Thissio, To Steki Tou Ilia takes its guests on a journey back to a simpler and perhaps more beautiful time. While its menu is limited and resembles what a Greek mom would cook for her children, its simplicity is what wins people over. 

Ella Greek Cooking

For a modern spin on cult-classic Greek recipes and a great meal, head over to Ella Cooking at the beginning of Mitropoleos Street, a few meters away from Syntagma Square in Athens.

Merging traditional flavors and fresh, local products with contemporary techniques and up-to-date combinations, Ella holds a special place in the locals' hearts while offering unique homemade dishes one wouldn't experience anywhere else. 

Last but not least, Dia Tafta is another traditional tavern in Athens that combines toothsome offerings with a great atmosphere. Located in the broader region of Monastiraki bordering Psirri, the name of the tavern translates to 'the conclusion/ the gist of things.'

For the owners of this local tavern, the gist of life is 'good food, good drinks, and good company', and we couldn't agree more! 

Fine Dining

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Although cozy traditional taverns are the trademark of Greece, Athens doesn't lack prestigious eateries that move Greek cuisine forward in leaps and bounds.

As a matter of fact, it is rather difficult for us to pick our favorites given the extent of Athens' selection in fine dining establishments, but as always, we'll do our best.

Before we go ahead, however, it is essential to note that fine-dining options are bound to be a lot less affordable than taverns. However, the steep prices match the quality and the experience these establishments offer.

So, although it might not be an everyday occurrence depending on your budget, it is worth celebrating a special occasion or indulging one time as a gift to yourself and your loved ones.

Speaking of indulgence, Vezene, a Greek-inspired bistro located in the heart of Athens, has managed to modernize and elevate local flavors to adapt to modern-day fine dining using high-quality, fresh local ingredients.

Vezene serves regional dishes with a contemporary spin in their taste, decorated following a trendy aesthetic that matches the restaurant's profile. The chef, butcher, and owner of the restaurant, Ari Vezené, is passionate about running his restaurant sustainably and ethically and has adopted a whole animal butchery practice. 

Another Athenian restaurant that celebrates Greek cuisine by adding a touch of sophistication to it is Vassilenas. Having opened its doors for the first time in 1920 in Piraeus as a small and simple tavern, there is no doubt that the chef has it figured out to a tee when it comes to food.

Now located in the middle of Athens, Vassilenas maintains its humble profile even though it has become one of its most acclaimed destinations for fine dining. 

Hytra is another delectable addition to Athens' fine-dining industry, having developed its gastronomic integrity based on the rich legacy of Greek gastronomy and enhancing it with a contemporary spin that involves modern upscale techniques and presentation.

With two separate menus, the 'Hytra' and the 'Hytra Apla,' the restaurant addresses two different price points with equal quality and taste. 

Offering upscale gourmet dishes to those who are looking to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, Spondi, located in the hip neighborhood of Pangrati, provides a whole other world of gourmet flavors- one you're allowed to enter only if you're willing to pay an extravagant price that however matches the extravagant offerings.

Having received multiple awards and worldwide recognition, as it is a 2-Michelin-Star restaurant and a proud member of Grande Table du Monde, there is no doubt that Spondi will be a treat for all of your senses. 

Street Food

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As a cheat meal or a hangover cure after a wild night out, we like to think that street food feeds the body and the soul in Greece. 

In our experience, very few people deny the appeal of street food, especially Greek street food. Not to mention it is an excellent and tasty way to save money during your trip to Greece.

In the case of the beloved souvlaki, however, even the most difficult of eaters and the most devoted fans of healthy eating have come around to celebrate the king of Greek street food.

The reason is simple: souvlaki is the "cleanest" fast food one can have, and you can enjoy it without guilt, while it is one of the best deals for food regarding value for money.

It consists of small pieces of meat -or vegetables if there is a vegetarian option available- enclosed within pita bread, tomatoes, onion, french fries, and tzatziki, which can sometimes be swapped for some type of sauce. The meat is usually pork or chicken, while beef and lamb may also be used.

Souvlaki is a fundamental component of Athens's cuisine; it is delicious, nutritious, and cheap, so why wouldn't it be?

Therefore, it is no surprise that the city is awash with souvlaki shops that offer their take on the beloved street food that is a part of locals' and travelers' everyday lives.

Get local insight into the best places to eat souvlaki in Athens to prepare yourself for the explosion of taste you will experience during your stay in the Greek capital. 

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For the locals, indulgent days include a breakfast consisting of a traditional pastry -usually made with 'phyllo' dough- that can be purchased from the neighborhood's bakery.

Ariston, a family-run bakery that was established in 1910 and famous for its 'shortcrust pastry cheese pies, Harry's Kitchen, a tiny shop that is a recent addition to Athens' culinary scene and offers unique homemade pie combinations meant to please even the pickiest of eater.

The shop wows its guests with the quality of its ingredients and its creativity, and it is one of the best bakeries you can find in downtown Athens that promise to change the way you look at breakfast forever!

Whether it is ' tyropita ' -cheese pie- 'bougatsa' -custard pie- or any other filling, such as chocolate, sausage, or even minced meat, I can't imagine trying any of Athens bakeries' offerings or local delicacies and regretting your choice!

Food Markets

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Given that Greece is known worldwide for the quality of its local produce, it is only expected that one can find the fresh and delicious products that the Greek land has been generously providing its locals with for thousands of years in its capital city.

That's where Athens' Central Market and the farmer’s market tradition in Greece , especially Athens, come out to play.

Athens' Central Market -or Varvakios as the locals call it- is located right in the city's heart, right by the neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psirri, serving as the beating heart of Athenian gastronomy since its establishment in 1884.

A medley of colors, aromas, and flavors, the impressive, wide-ranging market has everything you're searching for and probably much more.

From high-quality meat to fresh fish, locally-grown vegetables, and a limitless supply of spices, most of which you've never heard of before, the central market of Athens can do no wrong.

Similarly to Athens' Central Market but on a much smaller scale, the locals source the raw materials they need for their everyday cooking in their neighborhoods' farmer's markets -or ' laiki agora ' in Greek- a dearly beloved institution that takes place weekly in all Athenian neighborhoods and has been established since the ancient times.

You can find the days and Athenian neighborhoods the farmers' market takes place weekly here .

If you're lucky, you might even come across, among the many stalls, one selling meat skewers; don't even think twice, buy a couple, and thank us later; it will be a great meal no matter when and where you choose to eat it.  

Don't fail to explore the food markets of Athens during your stay in the city; make sure to have small euro notes and change with you and your eyes peeled for the most outstanding local products in town; your whole outlook on gastronomy is bound to change after getting up close and personal with the raw materials of Greece.

Athens' Nightlife 

Vibrant, lively, exuberant, buoyant; whichever word you want to use to describe it, one thing is for sure; Athens' nightlife is an integral part of the locals' life and probably nothing you've ever experienced before; what can we say? Greeks like to have a good time!

Thankfully, Greeks also like to have options, which translates to Athens' nightlife scene, making it a mixed bag of entertainment. As a result, there are four main categories in the nightlife destinations depending on your taste and age.

Of course, if you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, you can also check out our gay Greece travel guide!

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The beloved nightlife staple most cities have an abundance of, the bars of Athens are different from the ones around the world.

They are, in fact, one of Athens' top attractions. You can relax and mingle with the locals while tasting incredible alcoholic concoctions that put a modern Greek spin on classic cocktails.

The city center is swamped by bars, so finding one that fits your needs won't be hard; from jazz to rock and everything in between, the diverse side of Athens shows its face once again, providing both the locals and the travelers with endless options to choose from.

As bar enthusiasts ourselves, we have put together not one, not two, but three blog posts regarding the bars of Athens. 

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I don't know if you've heard this before, but Greeks like to dance -a lot. Admittedly, the club is one of the most popular destinations for people who want to unwind and one of the best places to dance in Athens , so it is no surprise that most central Athenian neighborhoods have at least one club that people frequent until the early morning hours.

Although there are a few exceptions, as a rule of thumb, the clubs of central Athens open their doors at around midnight with the tunes of R-n-B music blasting from the speakers and close at around 7 pm with Greek pop music helplessly trying to sober the clients up.

It is a vibrant, colorful, and intense scene that is not designed for the faint-hearted and is the total antithesis of what a home buddy would enjoy. If, however, socializing is your hobby and dancing feels like second nature, the club scene of Athens will electrify you!

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One of our favorite nightlife destinations and one we would highly suggest to any visitor looking for genuine local entertainment are 'rebetadika.' 'Rebetadika' are traditional local taverns that, along with delectable dishes of folk cuisine, offer live music of the famous Greek genre of 'rebetiko,' -hence the name.

The genre of rebetika can be described as the popular urban songs of the Greek public, especially those coming from an economically challenged background, from the late 19th century to the 1950s.

It's important to note that In 2017, rebetiko was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List . Therefore its cultural importance to modern Greek heritage has been officially verified.

Furthermore, being quintessentially Greek to their core, 'rebetadika' is the perfect opportunity to combine traditional Greek flavors with traditional Greek sounds in an affable environment, surrounded by locals who will delight in sharing their life stories with valuable tips for your stay with you.

Suppose you're looking for an authentic Greek evening out and are determined to keep your musical mind open. In that case, there is a wide variety of 'rebetadika' in downtown Athens, especially in the fashionable district of Psirri.

'Stoa Athanaton' has been the obvious choice for the locals since its establishment around 30 years ago and continues to be considered one of the best 'rebetadika' in town. 

From 1963 until now, 'Palia Markiza' has been a constant value in Athens's rebetiko and folk scene. The venue resembles a typical old-time Greek setting.

At the same time, the live band performs every Friday, Saturday night, and Sunday at noon, lifting people's spirits with favorite folk and rebetika songs and a menu full of traditional goodies.

Just remember that the tunes of rebetiko will probably sound foreign to you, to say the least. But don't be put off by that; bask in the sheer Greekness of the night, and you'll have a jolly good time!

Live music stages 

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Always up for a good party, Greeks love to spend their nights listening to live music at music stages around the city, where the most famous Greek singers and musicians show their artistry in front of an excited crowd.

You can find anything from the famous 'bouzoukia,' meaning music stages that feature Greek pop and modern folk music and typically have a raised stage where the guests dance along with the singers, to rock and alternative rock gigs frequented by die-hard fans.

Exploring the live music scene of Athens and enjoying one of the most paramount elements of local culture is key to understanding the Greek way of life.

If we've piqued your interest, which we hope we did because it is worth it, no ifs, ands, or buts about it- you can read about the best places to listen to live music in Athens and plan your nights in central Athens accordingly.

If nothing from the aforementioned floats your boat, have a read of the five things to do in Athens at night , and maybe you'll find something that suits you better; you do you! 

Athens' Culture

Athens' abundance of cultural stimuli is genuinely remarkable and can satisfy the tastes of even the most demanding of travelers from all around the world.

From prestigious art galleries to cultural centers, the world of sophistication that unfolds before the visitor's eyes leave a lasting impression that people can't shake off. And why would anyone want to shake off any Athenian experience? Believe us when we say that one cannot help but fall in love with Athens, no matter what. 

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Prestigious, fascinating, and original galleries are what Athens excels in. From contemporary paintings to unique jewelry and originally-crafted sculptures, art is plentiful in the capital city.

To make things a whole lot easier for you, you can read an all-embracing list of the best Art Galleries in Athens that will help you prioritize your stops during your Athens visit.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

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Suppose you want to take a long walk amidst luscious greenery while also getting the opportunity to get a hefty dose of Greek culture. In that case, the guide to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is perfect for you.

One of the locals' favorite destinations in Athens, the SNFCC hosts the National Library and the Greek National Opera, as well as an ever-green rooftop park and ground-level sweeping esplanade, where you can enjoy a long stroll, sip on your favorite beverage, read a book, watch a play and have a ball!

Open-air cinemas

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Last but not least, if you're a fan of cinema and Greek culture, combine the two with a visit to one of the open-air cinemas in Athens; a unique summer experience that will ruin any other cinema experience you've ever had, or you'll have in the future.

Watching your favorite movie under Athens' summer night sky with a Greek delicacy in hand is pretty hard to beat, don't you think?  

Athens Architecture

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Being as old as it is, Athens' architecture is intriguing, to say the least, and covers a broad spectrum of styles that have dominated the city over different periods.

From antiquity until today, Athens has been decorated with buildings that reflect the city's aesthetic through the ages; it is worth mentioning that today, there are more than 10,500 buildings registered dating from 1830 to World War II, still standing, representing various typologies and aesthetics schools.

It is what we would call the unofficial architectural heritage of Athens, and it is so diverse that there is no wonder why it captures the interest of most of its visitors.

From  the awe-inspiring Athenian Trilogy  to  the Benizelos Mansion , the  Neoclassical Architecture in Athens  is probably the most prominent style you will come across, and admittedly the prettiest one.

Neoclassical is the architectural and artistic movement that bloomed around the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and elsewhere to revive the classical forms of Greek antiquity and the subsequent Roman Empire.

In Greece, this type of architecture was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with the most famous examples still standing today, such as the numerous neoclassic mansions in Plaka, our Parliament building, which was previously the Royal Palace, the old Parliament House, which is now the National Historical Museum, and the Zappeion Mansion in Athens. 

Athens' Squares

En par with the charming neighborhoods of Athens, many Athens squares seem to stand out to the public, becoming popular meeting points and trendy hangout spots for Athens' residents.

Despite being up-to-the-minute, Athens' squares are drenched in history, making it necessary for us to linger on two of the most central and characteristic ones located around the city's heart.

Syntagma Square

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If you've ever been to central Athens, it is impossible to have missed the emblematic  Syntagma Square , located right at its heart, housing the grandiose building of the Greek Parliament.

While it is the second-largest square in Greece, following the Spianada Sq. on Corfu island, its compelling history makes it unique.

After the War of Independence and the establishment of the new Greek State, the newly appointed King of Greece, Otto, declared Athens as the new capital of Greece. King Otto's rule, however, was deemed unfair by the Greeks.

Eventually, the people of Athens questioned his authority, and on September 3rd of, 1843, they occupied the square, demanding the formation of an official constitution for the country.

The civilians succeeded, and Otto gave in. Hence the name of Athens square became Syntagma Square, which in English translates to 'Constitution Square.'

The monuments of Syntagma Square

At the center of the square lies a marble fountain in front of the monumental staircase leading to the  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  monument, one of the square's top attractions.

This cenotaph is being guarded constantly by the elite force of the Greek army, the Evzones.

The most important buildings surrounding Syntagma Square in Athens are Grande Bretagne - the first international hotel of the city - and the former Ministry of Transport, famous for being where the liberation of Greece from the Nazi forces in 1944 was announced. 

Monastiraki Square

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Of course, no guide of Athens can leave out the colorful and historic  Monastiraki Square  that has been pulsing with life for hundreds of years.

Funnily enough, Monastiraki translates to 'little monastery,' with the name being a token left behind from the times when the square was part of a -you guessed it- monastery.

Located at the end of Ermou str., the most commercial street in Athens, and the beginning of Pandrosou, Adrianou, and Ifestou str., apart from the lively Monastiraki Square Flea Market, which offers the perfect opportunity for souvenir-shopping, Monastiraki Square is also known for its significant monuments and archaeological sites.

With Hadrian's Library, Pantanassa Church, and Tsisdarakis Mosque, which now hosts the Folk Art Museum, all located only a few meters from each other, it is apparent that one can witness the entire history of Athens, Greece, when standing at its center.

Don't skip the chance to taste Athens' best kebab souvlaki in  Thanasis  on Mitropoleos str., located near Hadrian's library, or sip on a cup of traditional Greek coffee on the charming Avissinias Square, the small square in the middle of the flea market; Monastiraki Square is a historical fairy tale waiting to be told! 

Shopping in the city center of Athens 

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No one is going to blame you, it's a materialistic world out there, and everyone knows it.

Therefore, apart from the natural beauty that is lavishly available in central Athens and the historical and cultural attractions, its rich retail market is bound to catch your attention, and for a good reason: shopping in Athens, Greece, is a unique experience, especially if you know where to look for the most original local boutiques.

Since we take shopping rather seriously, not as seriously as food, but it comes a close second, we have composed  the ultimate guide to shopping in Athens ! 

Alternatively, suppose you're a conscious buyer, and ethical shopping is your thing, or you simply enjoy scavenging for treasures. In that case, you can explore the  flea markets and thrift shops in Athens , where a whole world of previously loved pieces are waiting for their new owners.

Top Beaches Near Athens

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It's safe to say that its many golden beaches are high up in the ranking on Athens' pros list. Although the Greek islands are the ones that get the most praise for their idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, and visitors often forget that Athens, Greece is indeed a beautiful seaside city.

Only a few kilometers away from the city center, one can enjoy some quality beach time and indulge in the swimming and sunbathing they've dreamed of. 

Once you have your exotic cocktail in hand and a beautiful tan on your body, you'll never doubt the versatility of Athens ever again! 

Travel to Athens with kids

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Visiting Athens may either be the ultimate romantic getaway, or it could just as well be the perfect family trip to share with your loved ones.

With plenty of opportunities for your children to engage in local activities that will keep them entertained and happy throughout the trip,  visiting Athens with kids  shouldn't intimidate you, and this Athens travel guide will let you know why.

Athens' vast history alone offers the most extraordinary stimuli to your kids' imagination, occupying them for hours on end. Combine that with the rich and intricate tales of Greek Mythology you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself, and you'll have a winning combination no child will be able to resist.

Greek Mythology is one of the integral elements you'll also come across during your visit to the archaeological sites of Athens, such as the Acropolis, saving the day when your kids get bored and fussy.

Visiting the Acropolis with kids

Visiting the Acropolis with kids  in particular, despite the hike up the hill and the flood of information you'll have to overcome, can prove to be one of the most joyful family moments on your holidays in Athens.

You can also combine your visit to the emblematic archeological site of the Acropolis with a vibrant narration of Percy Jackson's accomplishments through a fun guided tour, as the Parthenon in Athens is one of the  7 places in Greece to live a Percy Jackson adventure !

Now you can retrace the steps of the beloved fictional character that kids from all around the world - all the way to the middle east- worship and keep your little ones occupied and happy!

In any case, when visiting the Acropolis of Athens, make sure to have a couple of things in mind: due to the scorching weather, especially during the summer months, don't forget to bring your hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen, while also dressing comfortably and lightly, as the average temperature in Athens is rather high.

What's more, albeit you should pack light, we highly suggest you carry water and snacks with you, as hungry and thirsty kids are not the greatest of sports.

Please bring a baby sling if you're traveling with a toddler or a baby, as the Acropolis of Athens isn't one of the most famous examples of stroller-friendly premises. 

Last but not least, don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture those family moments that you will treasure when your kids are too cool to join the family exploits even if they include riddles from Olympian Zeus himself!

The best Athens Neighborhoods

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Walking around the city and exploring its different neighborhoods is the most efficient way of getting to know the region, the most incredible way to marvel at Athens's top attractions, and get an insight into the locals' everyday life. A way of life a little different from the rest of the western world.

Of course, we can't omit to mention our favorite neighborhoods in the city from this all-inclusive guide, so here you go - you can click on each location's link to visit our detailed guide.

Hint : there is one neighborhood you won't be able to tell apart from the ones you see in the Greek islands. It is one of the most famous examples of Cycladic beauty, located in the middle of Athens!

Parks and Hills of Athens

Although the presence of concrete Athens is unmistakable, as expected from a capital city, right in the heart of Athens lie some nature retreats, where you can escape the hustle and bustle and recharge your batteries.

Whether you want to enjoy a luscious picnic, get introduced to Athens' flora and fauna, or just want to take a leisurely walk in search of some peace of mind, Athens will not disappoint you!

Find out about the  parks in Athens you should visit  and escape the concrete jungle where dreams are made in minutes! Of course, if you thought we'd leave that here and not tell you about the places where we like to go when we need a break from the hectic city life of Athens, you thought wrong, and we are very offended!

Here are our top picks regarding the luscious greenery of Athens:

The National Garden

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Visiting the lush National Garden in Athens, one of the most famous examples of an oasis in the heart of a cement city, with its tree-lined alleys, six ponds, and pets and birds, grants a great escape from the hectic city pace and the perfect opportunity for relaxation and recreation.

The Athens National Garden, known for many years as the 'Royal Garden,' open every day from sunrise to sunset, was and remains one of the favorite walks of the Athenians.

However, many visitors to Athens are unaware of the garden's value in botany and archeology. Regardless, the garden has been designated by the International Commission on Historic Gardens and Landscapes as a rare example of 19th-century landscape architecture and Europe's cultural monument.

The history of this garden in Athens goes back to ancient Greece when it was a private garden - a gift of Dimitrios Falireas to his teacher, philosopher, and herbalist, Theophrastus.

The National Garden, stretching across 154,000m², began to take its present form during the reign of Otto, being the work of Queen Amalia, known for her love for the land and her effort to create beautiful green spaces in Athens.

From 1839, plants began to be imported mainly from abroad to Athens because queen Amalia wanted the garden to have an "exotic" vibe.

The National Garden was initially only open to the public only a few days a year when the royal couple was not in Greece. After Otto's eviction, George I took care of the Garden and established a small zoo in Athens within its premises.

In 1927, its wooden fence was replaced by the iron railings and marble pillars that we see today. The 'Royal Garden' was renamed 'National Garden' in 1974.

The garden has seven entrances around Athens, with the main one on Amalias Avenue. Walking through the intricate alleyways, which are 7 km long and 3-5 meters wide, the visitor gets lost in the vegetation that consists of 500 species of plants -some so rare you won't come across anywhere else in the western world or even the middle east.

In addition to the famous ponds, the National Garden in Athens has pergolas with benches, a playground, a small collection of birds (ducks, geese, ducks, hens, hens goats), as well as many decorative elements such as statues of leading Greeks figures that famous Greek artists have crafted.

Within the National Garden, one can also come across Athens Children's Library, founded in 1984, Athens Botanical Museum, and a greenhouse.

So plan a leisurely walk across the luscious Athenian gardens, and you won't regret it; whether it is relaxation, reading, physical exercise, or even sunbathing you're after, the National Garden in Athens will become your favorite spot in the city!

Lycabettus Hill; A Breathtaking View From the Highest Point of Athens

lycabettus hil overview at dusk milangonda depositphotos

A treat to the romantics among us,  Lycabettus Hill  is one of the most dreamy places in Athens that no one -yes, even you cynics out there- should miss.

With a height of 277 meters (745 ft), Lycabettus is the tallest hill in Athens, offering a panoramic view of roughly the entire capital city, including its most prestigious archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis, which stretches for miles in a wide mesa surrounded by high mountains and the sea.

In antiquity, even though Lycabettus Hill was larger and higher, its lack of natural springs sealed its fate as inferior to the neighboring hill of the Acropolis, resulting in its remaining unoccupied.

However, Lycabettus' mystifying entice created a world of myths around its creation. According to the most popular one, the hill of Lycabettus was formed after the goddess Athena dropped a rock she was carrying.

During medieval times, a small church was built on the top of the hill on the grounds of an ancient shrine, which the visitors of the hill can still admire. Today, perched on the top of the hill, you can also find a luxurious bar/restaurant where you can enjoy local delicacies and a striking view of Athens that extends all the way to Piraeus port, which will leave you speechless.

Accessing the Lycabettus Hill

Accessing Lycabettus Hill is relatively easy: you can either drive up to a point and continue on foot, or you can opt for a cable car that is available at the end of Plutarch Street, which is probably the best favorite way, as the ascend is both fun and quick.

Lycabettus Hill will tick all of your boxes if you are a lover of nature and spine-tingling views. We promise that you will feel just like Olympian Zeus overlooking the Greek capital! 

Beyond Athens

Sounio and the temple of poseidon.

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Within a 1,5 hour drive along the delightful coastline of Athens' Riviera lies another impressive archaeological site of Athens that, apart from its historical interest that goes back to ancient Greece, also possesses an unrivaled beauty resulting from the triumphant combination of the ancient columns against the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

The Doric Temple of Poseidon stands perched on top of a cliff overlooking the crystal-clear waters and giving Sounio's visitors a sight to behold.

Giving off an island life ambiance despite being 70 km from Athens' city center, everyone should take their sunglasses, camera, and high spirits and visit the southernmost point of Athens that is easily accessible while being utterly breathtaking.

Sounio's many inviting beaches are perfect for a quick swim, apart from enjoying the archaeological ruins.

Plan a  day trip to Sounio  to catch its magnificent and much-talked-about sunset in the afternoon. Moreover, enjoy an atmospheric dinner in one of its seaside taverns; a wonderful time is guaranteed whatever you choose to do. 

Islands Near Athens, Greece

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A little more than an hour away from Athens -or 40 minutes if you opt for the speed boat- you will find the  island of Aegina , one of the best examples of the Saronic islands, which compensates for its small size with its vast history that dates back to ancient Greece and good looks.

The city of Aegina is dominated by buildings that follow 19th-century architecture, giving the island a vintage vibe everyone loves.

Embrace the island's heritage by paying a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Kolonna or taking a trip to the historic Temple of Aphaea, a temple that holds a strong resemblance to the Acropolis of Athens.

Enjoy the island's stunning beaches by swimming in Agia Marina, the blue flag-awarded beach on the island. Take a scenic stroll throughout the length of the picturesque port and gobble down fresh fish and seafood in the welcoming seaside tavernas. We promise it will be a day you'll never forget!

Agistri Aerial motion shutterstock

Ten minutes away from the island of Aegina and around 1,5 hours away from the port of Piraeus, Agistri is another gem of the Saronic Gulf, wonderfully picturesque and significantly smaller than its neighboring islands.

Its lush landscape, dominated by dense pine forests and crystal clear waters, has placed the small island very near and dear to the Athenians' hearts, who visit the island at every opportunity.

During antiquity, the island was known as Cecryphaleia, with many of its ancient settlements now lying underwater, mainly in the western part of the island.

Among the top attractions of the island is the Folk Art Museum at Megalochori, a small museum that will transport you back in time and introduce you to the past everyday life of Agistri islanders.

Don't hesitate to plan a quick trip to Agistri to experience for yourself the laid-back life of a Greek island without having to spend too many hours on a boat!  

Spetses Konstantin Sokolov1973 shuttestock

Last but not least, the island of Spetses is undoubtedly the most picturesque of the Saronic islands and probably of most Greek islands, looking like it has come straight out of a fairytale. Spetses combines revolution and tradition sprinkled with superb cuisine and spirited nightlife.

It is classy and sassy, and makes you fall in love with it right from the get-go.

One of its additional perks? Cars are not allowed on the island, meaning that it is always quiet and peaceful, following a slowed-down pace most of us beg for. No one can deny that it offers one of the best deals for summer vacation! 

If you  explore the Greek islands near Athens  or even a bit longer, and you'll soon realize that their proximity to the city doesn't take away from their beauty; on the contrary, it adds to it the element of convenience and ease, precisely what people look for during their holidays!

Day Trips From Athens, Greece

Meteora clifs Killinson depositphotos

If you want to broaden your horizons without getting too far away from Athens and its striking Acropolis, there are several options for a day trip from Athens, filled with guided tours you should consider.

From Athens to Delphi

The site of Delphi was the most famous and notable oracle in ancient Greece. Praised worldwide, visitors from across the globe used to come seeking the prophecies of God Apollo. Traditionally, the only person allowed to enter the sacred chamber of Apollo's temple was his high priestess, Pythia.

Sitting on a golden tripod covered with the skin of Python, Pythia inhaled the fumes coming out from the chasm and chewed laurel leaves while giving out prophecies that were believed to come straight from the god's mouth.

Take the approximately 2-hour drive from Athens to marvel at the archaeological site of Delphi and immerse yourself in ancient Greek spiritualism. Since your trip to this transcendental destination will be entertaining and educational, check out the  things you’ll learn on a day trip to Delphi . The captivating stories you will hear and the striking landscapes you'll get to enjoy will make your day trip an utter success!

From Athens to Nafplio

At the shores of the Argolic Gulf, located in the striking peninsula of the  Peloponnese  and only a couple of hours away from Athens, Greece you can find one of the most whimsical and romantic cities of Athens, Nafplio. The city of Nafplio, much like every corner of Greece, has a far-reaching past that is evident in its architecture.

Fun fact:  Nafplio was the first capital of the modern Greek State, before Athens, and the place where the murder of Ioannis Kapodistrias, a Greek statesman who served as the Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire and was one of the most distinguished politicians and diplomats of Europe, took place Its charm, however, doesn't derive only from its heritage.

The city of Nafplio harmoniously combines its history with a flawless urban aesthetic, incredible beaches, and an intense cultural agenda that keeps its visitors on their toes. Here's a  guide to Nafplio  to make your day trip a smooth sail!

From Athens to Ancient Corinth

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With an impressive history that dates back almost 8000 years, it stands to reason that the region of Corinth has played an integral part in ancient Greece and the development of not only modern Greece but the whole western world as well.

From hosting one of the most significant sports festivals during antiquity to becoming a founding city of Christianity, Corinth has changed the world as we know it.

Located 80 km. southwest of Athens, Corinth is the only county bordering the region of Attica and is, therefore, perfect for a short excursion or a day trip from Athens.

Due to the magnificent waters of its sea and its small, scenic villages, such as Vrachati, Kiato, Derveni, among others, it also offers an ideal setting for your summer vacations and a great alternative to the Greek island.

But, of course, when talking about Corinth, one cannot leave out the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where the famous Temple of Apollo - not the largest temple, but certainly one of the most popular ones- the mythical Fountain of Glaucus, the street of Lechaio, the Asklepieion, the ruins of the theater, and the conservatory, as well as the remains of a series of fountains adorning the city, are waiting to be explored.

Just 3km from Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, the oldest castle in the Peloponnese, is built 575 meters above the ground, providing visitors with a mind-blowing view of the prefecture.

Don't wait any longer: plan your trip to Corinth and stop to snap Instagram-worthy pictures of the impressive Corinth Canal on your way to the city.  A comprehensive guide to Corinth  will ensure your life will be made a lot easier during your short time there; enjoy!

From Athens to Meteora

Often described as 'the place between heaven and earth,' Meteora is one of the most awe-inspiring regions of Greece and the western world despite being far away from the sea. Located in the region of Thessaly, Meteora is a place that calls for isolation, seclusion, and spiritual wondering.

The region is famous for its steep rock formations that hold no resemblance to any landscape around the world, on the tops of which some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world are still perched.

The geological miracle of Meteora is located in the northern part of the region of Trikala, nearby the modern city of Kalambaka. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a visit to the otherworldy land will help you realize why in a matter of minutes!

From Athens to Mycenae

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Mycenae , occupies the hillsides of the Peloponnese close to the modern town of Argos.

It is the city that named a whole civilization after itself, something which is indicative not only of its great importance to the then-known Greek world during the ancient times but also of its old age; it is known that the excavations that have taken place on the region of Mycenae have unveiled monuments so old that even ancient Greeks considered them ruins of antiquity.

Erected in a naturally guarded and reinforced location, you can't help but notice the Acropolis of Mycenae standing tall upon your arrival to the historic region.

Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of the area and get to know the birthplace of Agamemnon; it is no coincidence that Mycenae served as one of the most significant sources of inspiration for Homer!

From Athens to Epidaurus

Νοt to toot our own trumpet, but Greece is full of places that have earned a spot in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, and the Theater of Epidaurus is one of them.

Located in the beloved region of the Peloponnese within a couple of hours from Athens, the short drive to Epidaurus will reward you with a luscious natural landscape and an archaeological site that exceeds the expectations of even the most demanding of travelers.

The open theater of Epidaurus is said to be the best-preserved in all of Greece, maintaining its glamor up to this day and making the whole region a must-visit destination for Athens' visitors, who can even enjoy a modern play on its ground if they plan their visit to coincide with the annual Athens and Epidaurus Festival that takes place during the summertime.

The theater is famous for its unmatched acoustics, attributed to the architecture and the materials used for its construction in ancient Greece.

As a result, you can hear a pin drop at the exact same volume no matter where you sit, elevating your theater experience to another level. There is no doubt about it:  Epidaurus , and all lovers of theater and culture should hurry to it!

From Athens to Nemea

Known for its superb wine production that has its locals engaged with the -almost sacred- process of winemaking in Greece since the days of yore, Nemea lies on the border with the prefecture of Argolis and is surrounded by countless vineyards.

Apart from the many indigenous wine varieties you must try, there are archaeological monuments that are also worth your time. Some include the Temple of Jupiter, the baths, and the Nemea Stadium.

Most people, however, are familiar with Nemea -even if it's just its name, they're familiar with- from the famous tale of  Greek Mythology  regarding the labors of Hercules, and in particular, the killing of the Nemean lion, one of the most popular tales of ancient Greece.

If you're an admirer of history, wine, and all things nice, we highly suggest you visit this brilliant part of Greece conveniently close to Athens. Check out the  top things to do in Nemea  and make the most out of your day trip! 

Athens' Itineraries

If you want a complete and specific day-by-day guide on how to spend your days in Athens without being restricted to the famous Acropolis, we have everything under control as I have designed the ultimate guidebooks for your stay in the historic capital that include the best deals in guided tours you can during your trip to Athens.

More Reasons to Visit Athens

acropolis at nightime Lambros Kazan shutterstock

If you're that much of a doubting Thomas and need even more reasons to visit Athens than what is already stated in our Athens travel guide, we're happy to report that we still have multiple fail-safe get-out-of-jail-free cards for you.

Visit Athens for special occasions

Moreover, If you're a bride or a groom-to-be, you can get inspired by some of the best ideas for your bachelor and bachelorette getaway in Athens, Greece to help you live up to the last days of your life as a single!

Finally, suppose you want to visit Athens on a business trip and look for the best team-building activities in Athens, Greece such as a street art tour or cooking classes. In that case, you're in it to win with suggestions that will impress your colleagues;  Athens' street art and local cuisine are as impressive as our Acropolis and the culture that has inspired the Western world!

Final Thoughts

Acropolis photoshoot NataliaD Depositphotos

And voila, there you have it: the ultimate  Athens travel guide  that will make you feel cooler than the other side of the pillow and help you get around the city during your trip with ease, competence, and confidence, even if you're not some of the most experienced travelers.

Athens is truly one of the most incredible destinations around the world -and has been since the golden ages of  ancient Greece . With an average temperature of 28°C and archeological sites such as the Acropolis and Hadrian's Library, it is hard to beat.

Although the  Greek islands  get most of the hype, Athens, the capital city, with its ancient charm, urban aesthetic, and travel deals, is just as gorgeous and fascinating while also being diverse, vibrant, and fabulously welcoming; perfect for your summer trip!

No matter if you arrive at Athens International Airport, Piraeus Port, or Rafina Port, the city of Athens is exactly where you need to be.

Visit Athens, Greece, by booking one of our Greece vacation packages , and you'll get to find out the beauties of the largest city in the country for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is athens safe for tourists.

Athens has been described as an attractive destination even for female solo travelers. The crime rates are low, so you'll always feel safe at home. The majority of trips go smoothly. However, pickpocketing is something you should be mindful of,  especially in subway stations or busy tourist destinations.

Is it worth visiting Athens, Greece?

Athens is one of Greece's gems, and spending time there is a blessing. Despite being overlooked by many tourists in their haste to visit the Greek island, the wealth of culture and history the Greek capital offer is incomparable.

For that reason, we would highly suggest you design your itinerary to include at least a couple of days in Athens to get the full Greek experience.

How many days do you need in Athens, Greece?

Ideally, four days in Athens are usually enough to visit most of its attractions and get an authentic feel of it. It's possible for you to travel back to the beautiful capital of Greece after your tour of the Greek islands, but for those interested in a more immersive experience, a four-day stay would be the best option.

At the same time, if you're dead set on not spending time in a big city, you could fit the highlights in a couple of -busy- days. 

Is Athens good for a city break?

With all the sights to visit, Athens offers everything you could possibly desire. Ancient Greece's remnants are everywhere, from the Acropolis Museum to the Ancient Agora, and we can confidently say that Athens is the ultimate city break. 

Is it worth just going to Athens?

Athens is certainly a popular destination for tourists in Greece. The ancient city has plenty of treasures, and the modern attractions make visiting Athens worthwhile at any time. So yes, it is well worth just going to Athens. Its rich culture, vast history, local delicacies, and amazing coast will make sure you don't regret your choice. 

How do you get around in Athens, Greece?

The best way to get around during your visit to Athens is by foot and Metro; the most important sites of the city are easily accessible. You can also opt for rentals or, even better, book a transportation service that will take you comfortably and easily anywhere you want to go. 

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Read This Guide Before You Travel to Athens, Greece

Art, History, Culture lovers cannot complete their life journey unless they include Athens in their magical itinerary. Here’s your curated guide!

acropolis-monastiraki-visit-greece

Art, History, Culture lovers cannot complete their life journey unless they include Greece in their magical itinerary. For a short stay, Athens is a good place to start! Leave out the fanciful, cosmopolitan island destinations where you rub shoulders with the rich and famous, and start at the Basics – Greece 101 must include Athens and a few nearby mythical destinations.

A small country, 76-times smaller than Canada, 3-times smaller than California, but with a peculiar terrain of mountains and sea, 6,000 islands and islets, a vast coastline of over 13,000 km (compare to the 19,000km of the US coastline), Greece is where you can live a lifetime and still have places to visit and things to do!

Whether a first time visitor, a repeat aficionado, or even a permanent resident there are always new things to see, new cultural explorations and every path you take will lead you to a new wonder.

The City of Athens

Psiri area – Pedestrian Street with cafes and restaurants

So! you made it to Athens! From the Airport to the City Centre it would cost about 35€ by taxi or 11€ by Metro for a ride of less than an hour. Choose your accommodation to suit your budget but opt for a place close to the city center in the region of Acropolis, the Psiri area is a good option as it is within walking distance from all the sites and it is also the center of the Athenian nightlife.

The city would require a minimum stay of 4-5 days just to scratch the surface, but a surface indeed worth scratching! Landmarks, museums, food, and definitely a city for coffee-lovers!

The best time of the year to visit Athens is late spring (April/May) or early autumn (September/October) the weather is moderate and you can avoid the summer crowds. There is walking and climbing ahead so these months are pleasant and you avoid the exhausting summer heat.

When you are in Athens, you can buy a combined ticket, valid for five days from the day of purchase. The combined ticket allows you to visit all the ticketed archaeological sites in central Athens and it costs 30€. If you are visiting off-season (1/11-31/03), discounted individual prices for each site make more sense to purchase.

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On your first day’s expedition, plan to combine the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, and then walk through Hadrian’s Arch to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Continue your walk through the city oasis of the National Gardens onto the Syntagma Square.

The Acropolis of Athens

 The Parthenon – The Temple of Goddess Athena Parthenos, the Virgin Goddess that gave her name to the city

Time required: 1:30 hours minimum, about 15’ climb, bring along water and wear non-slippery shoes.

The Acropolis of Athens is located on a hill of about 150m; it is a complex consisting of fortification walls and temples. The Temple of Parthenon , dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess, the most sacred Temple of the Erechtheion, the Propylaea the magnificent gate and entrance into the Acropolis complex, and the temple of Athena Nike (Victory) the smallest temple.

The first wall built during the 13th century BCE, in the Mycenaean era. The complex reached its peak in the 6th and 5th centuries BCE , especially at the time when Pericles was ruling Athens.

Through the centuries it has survived earthquakes, wars, bombings, alterations and it is still standing to reminds us all of its glorious existence.

statue of athena parthenos

What you will not be able to see is the lost statue of Athena Parthenos that decorated the Parthenon Temple. According to Pliny it was around 11.5 metres tall and was made of carved ivory for flesh parts and gold (1140 kilos) for everything else, all wrapped around a wooden core.

The Acropolis Museum

You should plan to spend a couple of hours in the museum. An abundance of displays from the excavations of the slopes and the sanctuaries of the Parthenon and the Acropolis will mesmerize the true art lover. Make sure you spend some time to watch the video explaining the history of the Acropolis, and other audio-visual tours that are seasonally available.

View of the west and south frieze of the Parthenon.(source – The Acropolis Museum – theacropolismuseum.gr)

On the top floor exhibited are the surviving sculptures from the Parthenon’s frieze . Replicas of original sculptures found in the British Museum, better known as the Elgin marbles , are also on display.

The café of the Acropolis Museum is lovely, so allow some time to have a coffee or a snack with a view of the Acropolis.

Opening hours vary day by day and throughout the year, so check this link for more information. www.theacropolismuseum.gr (entrance fee 10€)

To whet your appetite enjoy this introductory video on the Acropolis Museum

Tip: wear pants! Some of the museum floors are transparent.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieio)

A short walking distance, across a busy avenue will lead you to the archaeological complex that houses the Temple of Olympian Zeus . Spend an hour at least on the site to devour the temple and its surroundings.

Olympeio

It is one of the oldest temples in Athens, and one of the largest ever built in Greece. Its construction was initiated by the tyrant Peisistratus the Young in 515 BCE, but was stopped due to the fall of tyranny.

It resumed in 174 BCE by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, and completed by Emperor Hadrian in  124/125 CE. Over the years, a new city wall, a large Late Roman cemetery, and an extensive Byzantine settlement developed in the area. Of the original 104 columns, only 15 remain standing today. A 16th column collapsed during an earthquake in 1852, and the pieces are scattered on the ground. The site is very impressive, and if you walk around you can see Acropolis in the background.

Lord Byron monument. Athens, Greece.

Complete your first day tour more leisurely. Walk through the Athens National Garden onto the Constitution Square. The garden houses 7,000 trees and a multitude of bushes, lovely ponds and you will come across many statues of heroes and politicians. Do not miss the Lord Byron statue. The figure is a remarkable sight, with Greece placing a wreath on his head as a token of honour and gratitude for his contribution to the struggle against the Ottomans.

Next, spend some time at the Constitution (Syntagma) Square, wait for the change of Guards at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier.

Take a good night’s rest, as on your next day you should opt to visit the National Archaeological Museum, about 20 minutes’ walk away from the Athens City Centre. Note that if you want to visit the museum properly, you will need around four hours! Plan to spend your entire morning in the museum. Take your lunch break at the nearby garden, it offers a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

National Archaeological Museum

 A bronze statue of a child riding a horse from the Hellenistic period from the National Archaeological Museum of Greece in Athens

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is the largest museum in Greece. Its vast collections include finds from all around the country. It exhibits five permanent collections, dating from the Prehistoric times to Late Antiquity.

 Nymphs abduction, Relief, Echelos and Basile, Amphiglyhpon, Museum

You will have the chance to see ancient Greek sculptures, vases, ornaments, jewelry, tools and everyday objects, an impressive Egyptian collection, and Cypriot antiquities.

Mycenaean art. Title: Gold cup showing a bull hunt, 15th cent. b.C., from the tomb at Vapheio. Location: National Archaeological Museum

Spend the remainder of the afternoon walking through the city center; enjoy the exquisite coffee served in an abundance of coffee shops and rest well for the third day is going to be a walking expedition under the Acropolis ruins.

Start your third day early to get breakfast at one of the Psiri’s cafes and continue through Monastiraki to get to the Agora (Assembly Place) of Athens. You would need over two hours to walk through the ruins, do not forget your water bottle and non-slippery shoes.

The Ancient Agora of Athens and the Museum of the Ancient Agora

A stoa in ancient Greek architecture

In ancient Athens, the Agora was the heart of the city-state .

It was the center of political, artistic, athletic, spiritual, and everyday life of Athens. Along with the Acropolis, this is where Democracy, Philosophy, Theatre and Freedom of Expression and Speech were born.

The highlights of the Agora include the Stoa of Attalos and the temple of Hephaestus.

athens greece travel brochure

The Stoa of Attalos is now the Museum of the Ancient Agora, it was quite possibly the first shopping center in history. Entry to the Ancient Agora museum is included with your combined ticket to the Ancient Agora.

The Ancient Agora museum is rather small, but it gives you a great overview of the social and political life in ancient Athens.

The temple of Hephaestus is the best-preserved temple in the whole of Greece.

A well-preserved Byzantine church, the Church of the Holy Apostles, built in the 10th century CE indicates the continuous function of the Agora as an assembly ground through the centuries.

Church of the Holy Apostles - Alchetron

Kerameikos and the Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos

Visitors often overlook the archaeological site of the Kerameikos, but we strongly suggest you visit for an extra couple of hours and as part of your combined ticket. It is one of the most important areas of ancient Athens and only walking distance from the Agora.

athens greece travel brochure

The area expands around the banks of river Eridanus, whose banks are still visible today. Named after the Greek word for pottery, the area originally served as a settlement for potters and vase painters, and was the main production center of the famous Athenian vases. Pottery art refined its skills on those grounds.

It later became a burial ground, which eventually evolved into ancient Athens’ most important cemetery.

The site of Kerameikos contains a part of the Themistoclean Wall, built in 478 BCE to protect the ancient city of Athens from the Spartans.

Museo Arqueológico del Cerámico

The Wall divided the Kerameikos into two sections, inner and outer Kerameikos. Inner Kerameikos (inside the city walls) developed into a residential neighborhood, whereas outer Kerameikos remained a cemetery.

Parts of the Wall, together with the gate of Dipylon and the Sacred Gate are well preserved. These gates were the starting points of the Panathenaic procession and the procession of the Eleusinian mysteries respectively.

A short visit to the small museum on the grounds will be a potter’s dream come true!

Hadrian’s Library

From Kerameikos heading back to the city center and the Monastiraki area stop for half an hour to visit the ancient cultural center, known as the Hadrian’s Library.

The Roman emperor Hadrian built this library in 132 CE, and it contained several rolls of papyrus books and was a venue that hosted various cultural events.

Hadrian's Library (Athens)

In subsequent years, the site hosted different types of Christian churches. During the Ottoman occupation, it became the seat of the Governor. (Image source –stoa.org)

The Roman Agora of Athens and the Tower of the Winds

Across from the library, through easy-to-walk pedestrian-only streets spend the next half hour to visit the Roman Agora and to explore the exterior stone carvings of the Tower of the Winds.

The Roman Agora of Athens was built between 19 – 11 BCE, with donations by Julius Caesar and Augustus . When the Romans invaded Athens in 267 CE, it became the center of the city of Athens.

During the Byzantine period and the Ottoman occupation, newly built houses, churches, the Fethiye mosque, and artisan workshops covered the site of the Roman Agora.

The Tower of the Winds

Built in the 1st century BCE by the astronomer Andronicus, entirely of white Pentelic marble, octagonal in shape. An ancient weather observatory was originally used to identify the direction of the wind with sundials on the external walls and a water clock in the interior.

Now you are in the heart of Monastiraki, still under the Acropolis, shop for souvenirs and eat souvlaki at a nearby restaurant. After a long day, walking through the ancient remains of the city, modern Athens is quite relaxing and offers many options to the tourist.

Not Far From Athens: Visit Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon

Sunset at Cape Sounio

Dedicate your fourth day to take a trip to the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula, Cape Sounio. It is the last point of the Athenian Riviera, at a 69km distance from Athens. It is best to visit with an organized Tour Operator that offers transportation and guide for the route and site. It is an impressive drive with a lovely view of the sea and of the Saronic Gulf islands.

The temple of Poseidon, the ancient Greek god of the sea, dominates the southernmost tip of Attica, where the horizon meets the Aegean Sea. Perched on the steep rocks of Cape Sounio, the temple is enveloped in myth and historic facts dated from antiquity until the present times.

The unknown architect is probably the same one who built Theseion in the Ancient Agora of Athens. He decorated the temple with sculptures made of marble from Paros Island, which depicted the labors of Theseus as well as battles with Centaurs and Giants.

Cape Sounio – The Temple of Poseidon

Notice the Doric columns, count their flutes and you will see that they are less in number than those on other temples of the same period (mid 5th c. BCE), seaside ancient temples have fewer flutes than the inland temples.

Lord Byron's name carved into the temple of Poseidon

Do not get tempted to do the same! The site guards are on the lookout of modern day romantics!

Make the most of your trip to Sounio by indulging in a refreshing swim in the small beach by the foot of the temple of Poseidon or in any one of the neighboring beaches in Legrena or Lavrio. Enjoy some fresh fish and seafood in the local tavernas. Tip – enjoy your swim in the morning and visit the Temple during the afternoon hours – the sunset from the cape is a memory you want to capture for a lifetime.

Exhausted from the long day, the swim, heading back to Athens, the city you just visited for a few days and hope to come back for a more in-depth view. Too many hidden treasures, art through the centuries, from Neolithic to Post and Metamodern, always set in the frame of Nature, a struggle between two gigantic creators the universal and the human, both can claim Excellency!

Opt for an extra day to revisit the city center one more time and if your passion for the arts is still unsated schedule the street art tour , the city of Athens, known as the Mecca of street art, has many surprises! Short trailer produced by alternativeathens.com

Have a safe trip back home and please come back, Greece has been here for millennia and will still be here until you next visit!

For more information regarding your Greek holidays, refer to the Greek National Tourist Board . Their website and local offices are very informative and a valuable tool in your planning process.

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Athena And Poseidon’s Contest: How Did Athens Get Its Name?

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By Maria Dragatakis BA Classics, Classical Languages and Literature Maria Dragatakis lives and works in Athens, Greece as an International Productions Coordinator for a local theater company. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Classical Languages and Literatures from Ohio University. Art is her passion which she is been blessed to relish in her daily tasks, in the world of the theater, and the city she lives in with its rich cultural heritage. Her work has taken her around the world in a never-ending journey, always seeking the finer sentiment of euphoria that only art can produce.

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Athens

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One of the oldest cities in the world, Athens wears its history like a badge of pride. The Acropolis and its crowning glory, the Parthenon, look down over the city from their lofty viewpoint, but everywhere you go you’ll come across ancient ruins from temples and theatres to towers and triumphal arches.

There are also Byzantine churches and Ottoman mansions to explore (the city was conquered multiple times throughout the ages), world-class museums, a vibrant nightlife, beaches and ocean views.

Areas of the heart of Athens are closed to vehicles, so you’re best exploring on foot and enjoying the city from rooftop bars and restaurants with sweeping views.

Things to see and do in Athens

The acropolis.

An ancient citadel perched on an outcrop above the city, the Acropolis was the brainchild of 5th-century BC statesman Pericles. He decided to build a lavish city of temples dedicated to the cult of Athena.

The site was proclaimed the province of the gods by the Oracle of Delphi, and the finest materials and best craftsmen were employed to construct a series of temples, theatres, sanctuaries and monumental gateways.

Although pilfered and damaged by conflicts and natural disasters over the centuries, the complex still has an immensely powerful presence. Many of the most important surviving sculptures now sit on display in the Acropolis Museum, while replicas fill their original places on the hilltop.

The Parthenon

Built during the Golden Age of Athens, the Parthenon sits on the highest point of the Acropolis, visible from all over Athens. The enormous Doric temple is regarded as the finest surviving example of classical Greek architecture. It was completed in 438 BC, and its finely calculated proportions, complex architectural structure and lavish decoration have inspired countless imitations.

The building originally served as a temple and treasury and held a colossal statue of Athena. Its friezes and sculpture-laden pediments would have been brightly painted and, although it has suffered badly over the years, it remains the symbol of Ancient Greece around the world.

Ancient Agora, the heart of classical Athens

The hub of ancient Athens, and its administrative, political and commercial heart, the Ancient Agora was the city’s marketplace, communal gathering space and location for some of the most heated debates and groundbreaking speeches in history.

The agora can justifiably claim to be the birthplace of democracy, a place where Socrates and Plato expounded their ideas, Saint Paul preached for coverts to Christianity, and lawmakers drew up codes that still influence our daily lives.

The site remained in use for about 5,000 years, and highlights include the Temple of Hephaistos and the modern reconstruction of the Stoa of Attalos, a covered walkway from the Hellenistic period. The Museum of the Ancient Agora explores the site’s legacy, as well as private and public life in classical Athens.

Plaka, one of Athens’ oldest districts

Set at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka’s warren of narrow streets are lined by brightly painted, often tumbledown houses and a glut of shops, galleries, tavernas, cafés and restaurants. Bougainvillea cascades from rooftops, and the district gives off a definite air of traditional Greek way of life.

You’ll also find small Byzantine churches, leafy little squares, flower sellers, buskers, museums and, like everywhere else in the city, impressive archaeological sites.

It’s also a good place to pick up everything from ouzo and olive oil to Byzantine-style necklaces and woven carpets.

Modern Athens

Despite Greece’s well-documented economic woes in recent years, Athens remains a thriving city with a lively contemporary arts scene. Museums covering everything from Cycladic and Islamic art to ancient archaeology, Jewish history, folk art and numismatics.

You can see edgy street art on buildings all over the city and, by night, attend live music, dance and drama performances of every type.

On Syntagma Square, Athens’ central gathering place, the Old Royal Palace houses the Greek parliament and you can see the changing of the guard in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Best time to visit Athens

Athens makes a good destination at any time of year, but April to June and September to October are the best times to go. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant and visitor numbers are lower than in high summer. During July and August, temperatures can reach 33°C (91°F), making it very hot for exploring the city, while winter weather can be quite unpredictable.

Audley Travel Specialist Lyta

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Suggested itineraries featuring Athens

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Athens, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Erechtheum, Athens

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Athens & Nafplio

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Athens & the Peloponnese

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Map of Athens

Places & hotels on the map, places near athens.

  • The Peloponnese 18 miles away
  • Cape Sounion 28 miles away
  • Hydra 48 miles away
  • Nafplio 59 miles away
  • Arachova 71 miles away
  • Delphi 76 miles away
  • The Greek Islands 77 miles away
  • Galaxidi 78 miles away
  • Milos 94 miles away
  • Mykonos 96 miles away
  • Monemvasia 97 miles away
  • Paros 103 miles away
  • Naxos 110 miles away
  • Olympia 118 miles away
  • Costa Navarino 133 miles away
  • Santorini 146 miles away
  • Meteora 165 miles away
  • Crete 200 miles away

Photos of Athens

Parthenon, Athens

Our expert guides to exploring Athens

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Athens, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Athens at its best.

Erechtheum, Athens

Exploring classical Greece: Five essential destinations

Explore the cradle of European culture with Greece specialist Abbey on this tour of five classical destinations, from the sun-bleached Parthenon in Athens to the sacred island of Delos, which the ancients believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Views over Monastiraki Square, Athens

Top 5 museums in Athens

As the cradle of Western culture, Greece has a special place in the history of art and architecture. Audley specialist and art history enthusiast Shannon visits bronze sculptures, marble friezes and Byzantine mosaics at five of Athens’ best museums.

Accommodation choices for Athens

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Athens. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

New Hotel, Athens

NJV Athens Plaza

Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Herodion Hotel, Athens

Herodion Hotel

Ideas for experiencing athens.

Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Athens, and which use the best local guides.

Street art, Athens

Athens street art tour

Discover Athens’ powerful street art on a guided tour that throws light on everything from the Greek economic crisis to the power of art to force social change. This half-day tour takes in Athens’ lesser-known districts and most impressive murals.

Greek olives, Greece

Athens food lover's walking tour

Sample fresh pies, succulent olives, traditional souvlaki and sweet desserts on a guided half-day walking tour of central Athens with a local guide. You’ll get an introduction to Greek cuisine and culinary techniques as you visit the city’s finest markets, delis and bakeries.

Ancient theatre, Delphi

Ancient Delphi and Arachova

An expert guide will lead you around the ruins of ancient Delphi on this full-day tour of one of Greece’s most prestigious archaeological sites. The day ends with a trip to Arachova, a mountain town known for its textiles and cheese.

The Acropolis, Athens

Ancient Athens and the Acropolis Museum

On this half-day privately guided tour, you’ll uncover the history, significance and function of the Athens Acropolis and its crowning glory, the Parthenon. Your time includes a trip to the Acropolis Museum, where the most highly prized sculptures are on display.

Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Offering an insight into Greek myths, beliefs and building methods, this privately guided tour of the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion reveals much about ancient society as well as presenting you with panoramic views from its headland setting.

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Travel Tips

Off the brochure travel guide: athens, greece.

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Hotels have been redone, trolley lines added, and grand promenades cleaned and polished.

The subway system is now fast and convenient, linking previously hard to reach sights and neighborhoods, and making intra-city travel a breeze for visitors.

However, no coat of fresh paint will ever cover the special reminders of Athens’s great legacy. The city is still filled with the same mulberry and olive trees that lined the streets in old-world Greece.

Remnants of ancient columns blend in with modern buildings around every corner. And within this blend of old and new, the city is teeming with hidden gems and secret spots that go beyond the traditional monuments and ruins. ATHENIAN ADVENTURES

The legacy of Amalia, the first Queen of Greece can still be felt today with a visit to the National Gardens . This jungle-like space of winding paths, fountains, and wandering peacocks contains the remains of over 15,000 plants imported by the Queen during her reign, which began in 1837. The space also contains a botanical museum, a children’s play area, a duck pond, and a miniature zoo. Leof Vas Amalias 1, 210 721 1027

Visit our Olympics Travel section to learn more about that experience.

The Kerameikos Cemetery and its accompanying museum, also known as the Oberlaender Museum , are located on the edge of central Athens, but are often overlooked by visitors. Stroll through the calm pathways lined with funerary monuments from the 4th and 5th centuries, and visit the grave sites of many notable classical Athenians. This site is also the location for the ancient walls of Athens and the Sacred Gate, used only by pilgrims using the sacred road on the annual procession from Eleusus. 148 Ermou St.

Athens electric train

Once the blazing heat of the day subsides and the cool evening breeze sets in, it’s cinema time in Athens. Outdoor screenings take place in large open spaces—gardens, ruins and rooftops—during warm summer evenings. Visit the Aegli cinema in the Zappeion park (next to the National Garden) or Dexameni-Frame in Platia Dexamenis on Friday and Saturday evenings.

MUSEUM MADNESS

Though the Benaki Museum is known as one of the best in Athens (and shouldn’t be missed), many visitors overlook its sibling, the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art . It’s owned by the same infamous Antonis Benakis and housing an equally stunning collection of pieces. Benaki spent much of his life in Egypt during which time he collected most of the 6,000 pieces on display at the museum today. Ceramics, instruments, and artifacts from a diverse range of countries including Spain, India, Egypt, Turkey, and Iraq make this one of the most comprehensive collections you will find anywhere. Agion Asomation and Dipylou, 210 325 1311, www.benaki.gr

If you’re impressed by dazzling jewelry, visit Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum where 3,000 pieces of jewelry are on display to the delight of visitors. The museum was founded by the famous Greek jewelry designer by the same name and its collection contains pieces designed in ancient, Byzantine, and Cycladic styles. There is also a small boutique downstairs so you can bring a piece home with you. Karyatidon and Kalisperi 12, Makrygianni, 210 922 1044

ancient greek pottery

This fact alone has often provoked feelings of bitter resentment and led to various efforts to tear the structure down. Built in 1789, it is an architectural marvel that makes the museum worth visiting if only just to gain entry to the structure. The collection itself contains an impressive array of pieces from the second half of the 20th century. Areos 1, 210 324 2066

Another multipurpose gallery worthy of mention is the DESTE Foundation of Contemporary Art . Here, international and Greek artists display their work in the unique setting of an old paper warehouse. Painting, sculpture, and photography are most commonly the focus of the well-crafted exhibitions. Pmirou 8, Neo Psihiko, 210 672 9460

AFTERNOON IN KOLONAKI

For some high-end window shopping, put on your Prada and stroll through the hilly, winding streets of the district of Kolonaki . Here, international brand name stores mingle with the shops of treasured Athenian designers such as Aslanis, Nikos, and Filemon. Don’t miss the streets of Voukourestiou, Kanari, Milioni, and (if you really want to drool) the most expensive of them all, Anagnostopoulou .

Learn more with our Italy & Greece Travel section .

The Greek Costume Museum will provide you with some background on trends through the ages. This pint-sized museum is easy to miss, but contains a small history of clothing and fashion, as well as 25,000 dresses and accessories from all over the country. Examples of classical, Minoan, Byzantine, and traditional Greek fashions are all represented. Dimokritou 7, 210 362 9513

Afterward, take a break from the afternoon heat by joining the locals for an afternoon iced coffee on Platia Kolonaki , one of the most fashionable squares in Athens. Lined with BMWs, Porsches, and Jaguars, this is the place where high-powered businessmen and politicians mingle. Vie for a table outdoors at one of the many cafes to watch the bustle. Try the cappuccino freddo at Da Capo, rumored by locals to be the best around. Tsakalof 1, Platia Kolonaki, 210 360 2497

Athenian View

In addition to providing its daytime vista, this is also the site of Mt. Lycabettus Theater , which regularly plays host to a variety of famous international performers. The rocky amphitheater cut into the hill has a gift for naturally enhancing acoustics, and when you combine this with the stunning view of the cityscape glistening below in the night sky, it seems there can really be no venue more perfect. Check local papers for upcoming events. 210 928 2900

BEYOND SOUVLAKI

One of the most special dining traditions in Greece is one found at the Mezedopolion , where patrons can drink ouzo , a traditional anise-flavored spirit, paired with a sampling of small dishes created to satisfy the palate.

Greek restaurant

For the ultimate taverna dining experience try Philippou which first opened its doors to hungry Athenians back in 1923. The hearty offerings here include casseroles, roasted meat dishes, and baked vegetables, and are sure to satisfy any palate. Outdoor seating is also available for those hot summer nights. Xenokratous 19, 210 721 6390

Don’t miss our complete European Travel section .

Greece is known for its indulgent, super-sweet treats, often composed of a crispy phyllo pastry base and laden with rich honey syrup. (Baklava is the best known of the bunch.) Head to Kosmikon , beloved by locals since 1961, to get your fix. Although dozens of sweets are available here, the specialty is galakloboureko , composed of layers of phyllo filled with custard. Leof Ionias 104, Agios Nikolaos, 210 864 9124

The Parthenon, Athens, Greece

You will want to stock up on pairs of sandals handcrafted by the famous Stavros Melissinos , known as the poet sandal-maker. His previous clients have included the Beatles, Sophia Loren, Jackie Onassis, and the entire 2004 Olympic team. Squeeze inside the small shop, choose a design, and have a pair fitted just for you by either Melissinos or his son. His designs draw their influence from Greek mythology and history, and are based on the styles worn by the ancient Greeks who once lived directly on the site of this shop. Ag Theklas Street #2, 210-3219247 /6938083805

Walk down almost any street in Athens and you’ll pass by Greek men twirling long strands of beads. These lucky charms, called worry beads or kombolois in Greek, are traditionally carried to diffuse stress and ease anxiety. They can be found throughout the city, and are made from a variety of materials including ivory, coral, shell, wood, and amber. For the best high-quality selection, visit the Komboloi Museum . Prices range from just a few dollars to several thousand depending on age and design. Omirou 39, Kolonaki

On Sunday mornings, wander through the Monastiraki Flea Market . The market, open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. is packed full of unique antiques, quirky baubles, and anything else you could hope to find. Platia Auyssinias and surrounding area, metro: Monastiraki

COASTAL EXCURSION

In the summer take a trip out to Athens’s famous port of Piraeus, among the busiest in the Mediterranean. Take in the view with a walk along the seawall. Busy seafood restaurants line the promenade, perhaps the best of which is called Diasimos . Drying octopus hang from the ceiling, while bushels of fresh offerings are displayed proudly, making for a unique atmosphere. Its waterfront location attracts local Athenians and visitors alike, who come to savor traditional specialties such as whole fish grilled with olive oil and lemon. Akti Themistokleous 306-308, 210 451 4887.

Continuing further along the promenade will eventually bring you to Mikrolimano Harbor and Zea Marina , two smaller, more upscale spots to take in the view of the sea. Mikrolimano Harbor is lined with sun-drenched tavernas offering outdoor seating, and backed by a quaint neighborhood with winding streets and many hidden boutiques and shops. Zea Marina is the launch off point for smaller yacht excursions to the Greek Islands and beyond and is thus always buzzing with activity. Grab a table at the always hip Istioploiko , order a cold drink, and watch the action. Akti Koumoudourou, 210 413 4084

By Alix Proceviat for PeterGreenberg.com .

Correspondent Alix Proceviat’s got Europe covered. Check out her other articles on PeterGreenberg.com:

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  1. Brochures

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  2. This is Athens

    Explore Athens with a Local. Meet an Athenian and discover the city beyond the guide books. Take a Walk. The official guide to the city of Athens. Where to eat, drink, and swim, top archaeological sites and museums to visit, plus all the essential tips to help plan your trip.

  3. Athens

    The tour starts at the Temple of Olympian Zeus (6th c. B.C.), one of the largest in antiquity and close by Hadrian's Arch (131 A.D.), which forms the symbolic entrance to the city. From there, walking along Dionysou Areopaghitou Street (on the south side of the Acropolis) you pass the ancient Theatre of Dionysos (5th c. B.C.) where most of the works by Sophocles, Euripides, Aeschylos and ...

  4. Athens Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Athens Travel Guide. Last Updated: September 1, 2023. Athens, founded in 508 BC, is a gigantic city that sprawls over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people. There are over 5,000 years of history in Athens and you'll find some of the largest collections in the world of Greek ruins and artifacts here.

  5. How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel

    Prices are about €1 per kilometer . By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a ...

  6. Planning a Trip to Athens: The Ultimate Travel Checklist

    Courtesy: Athens By Locals. In addition, four bus routes (X93, X95, X96, X97) head in different directions throughout Athens and all the way to Piraeus port. The metro ticket costs €9 and the bus ticket to Athens or the port of Piraeus costs €5.30. If you want to save time, we recommend getting a taxi.

  7. A first timer's guide to Athens

    Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive - or a 45-minute metro ride - from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus, which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km ...

  8. Visit Athens: Travel Guide to Greece

    BEST TIME TO VISIT ATHENS. The best time to visit Athens is from March till May and September till November. The weather is mild with clear skies and fewer tourists. MAR-MAY: This is springtime in Athens and one of the best times to go. We were there in early April. The weather was lovely but still a bit chilly.

  9. Ultimate Athens Guide

    Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. It is one of the world's oldest cities, and with a population of over 3 million, it is also one of the largest metropolitan areas in Europe. Situated in the Attica region on the Saronic Gulf, Athens has been continuously inhabited for more than 3,000 years.

  10. Athens Greece Travel Guide

    Athens is the capital city of Greece, birthplace of democracy and the most famous city of the Ancient World. It is a city bringing together past, present and future in a truly unique way. With the ancient ruins and temples of thousands of years ago standing side by side with the new modern buildings and infrastructure such as the Metro, Athens ...

  11. Athens Tourism and Travel Guide

    The Parthenon, Anafiotika, Plaka and the Panathenaic Stadium are some of the famous places you'll visit. Classical Greece Tour: 4 Days. Delve into the past and discover Ancient Greece on a 4-day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphos and Meteora with an English-speaking guide. Athens Segway Tour.

  12. 2024 Athens Travel Guide: Explore Greece's Capital Like a Local

    Athens is a fabulous year-round destination and following this Athens travel guide will reveal why. Central Athens is the best place to stay when visiting the Greek capital. The Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus are some of the most significant archaeological sites of the city. A walk around the historical center ...

  13. Travel Guides

    A unique client ID for each visitor. Find Greece's travel content online. Download or view one of our printed Travel guides.

  14. Athens Travel Guide

    Athens Travel Guide - Forbes Travel Guide. Athens is a sprawling capital city known for its Greek charm. High and steady in its center is the Acropolis, where tourists flock to see ancient sites like the Parthenon. The Acropolis is also the pride of Greece, as it is direct evidence of the city's history as the birthplace of democracy.

  15. Visit Athens

    Athens in One Day Top Attractions Itinerary. see the best of Athens. Day 1. 09:00 The Acropolis. The UNESCO site topped by the Parthenon and other ancient structures. . 2 mins. 10:00 Parthenon. The main structure on the Acropolis built in honor of Athena.

  16. Read This Guide Before You Travel to Athens, Greece

    Olympeio. It is one of the oldest temples in Athens, and one of the largest ever built in Greece. Its construction was initiated by the tyrant Peisistratus the Young in 515 BCE, but was stopped due to the fall of tyranny. It resumed in 174 BCE by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, and completed by Emperor Hadrian in 124/125 CE.

  17. The Ultimate Greece Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Starting sometime around November 2023, US travelers between 18-70 years old will need to fill out an ETIAS visa-waiver form prior to their trip, and pay a €7 ($7.25) entry fee, to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. It's a quick form, and you will most likely receive instant approval—but it's important to plan and ...

  18. Athens and the Greek Isles: A Tailor-Made Journey

    The following itinerary is a sampling of the experiences that we offer on a tailor-made journey to Greece. Working with our country specialists, you can customize your itinerary to fit your timing, your budget, and your interests, including accommodations, activities, and the places you visit. Delve into Greece's past and present, venturing to ancient ruins and timeless Cyclades islands, and ...

  19. Athens Holidays

    Ancient Athens and the Acropolis Museum. On this half-day privately guided tour, you'll uncover the history, significance and function of the Athens Acropolis and its crowning glory, the Parthenon. Your time includes a trip to the Acropolis Museum, where the most highly prized sculptures are on display. View details.

  20. Off the Brochure Travel Guide: Athens, Greece

    Get more destination ideas in our Off-the-Brochure Travel Guide series. Athens has come a long way since Greece’s first emergence as an empire in the days of antiquity. Refreshed and updated by playing host to the 2004 Olympic Games, the city is now a pleasant mix of ancient marvels and modern comforts.

  21. Classical Greece

    14 days from $6,995 | includes airfare, taxes and all fees. Delve into some of the most legendary sites in ancient Greece—and soak up contemporary Greek culture—as you journey from the Athens Acropolis to the Peloponnese, Crete, and Santorini. Request a Brochure. Make a Reservation. Ask Us A Question.

  22. Brochure for Tours in Athens

    read our brochure with detailed descriptions of our tours in Greece. ... Exclusive Travel Services in Greece Since 1989 Address: 37, Leof. Andrea Siggrou (Andrea Syngrou Avenue) 117 43 Athens, Greece. | Tel. +30 210 4516106. License 0206E60000543201. Athens Tours Greece ...

  23. Ivis Travel

    Don' t forget to take a look to our online brochure! You can find useful information about traveling in Greece. Featured Greek Packages. ... the most central travel agency in Athens, is here to bring you closer to the world. We will make your traveling and holiday unforgettable. ... 105 57 Athens, Greece Phone: +30 210 32 43 365 / +30 210 32 ...