Athens

🇬🇷 Greece
Explore the Birthplace of Democracy

Athens - Vacation Briefing

Athens, Greece is a city steeped in history and culture. With ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The city is also famous for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant nightlife scene.

Popular Sights in Athens

Things to do during your Athens vacation

Athens is a vibrant city that combines a rich history with a modern buzz. Explore ancient ruins, indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively street culture.

  • Acropolis: Visit the Acropolis, the iconic ancient citadel that houses the famous Parthenon temple.
  • Ancient Agora: Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, filled with ruins of various buildings and statues.
  • Plaka Neighborhood: Stroll through the charming streets of Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens, filled with traditional houses, shops, and cafes.
  • National Archaeological Museum: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts.
  • Mount Lycabettus: Climb Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens and enjoy a picturesque sunset.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market: Browse through the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market, offering a variety of traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
  • Benaki Museum: Discover Greek art and history at the Benaki Museum, featuring collections from prehistoric times to the modern era.
  • Cycling Tour: Join a cycling tour to explore Athens and its landmarks while enjoying the fresh air and active experience.
  • Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Experience a live performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular ancient theater located at the foot of the Acropolis.
  • Gyros Tasting: Indulge in the flavors of Greece by trying delicious gyros from local street vendors or cozy taverns.
  • Nightlife in Psiri: Experience Athens' vibrant nightlife scene by exploring the bars, clubs, and live music venues in the lively neighborhood of Psiri.

Why you should visit Athens

Overall
6.4

Athens, Greece is a culturally rich destination with a lot of historical sites and diverse food. However, it has some safety concerns and may not be very relaxing.

Safety
4

Athens, Greece has some safety concerns including petty theft and occasional protests. It is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Culture
9

Athens, Greece is steeped in history and culture. It offers a wide range of museums, ancient ruins, and architectural wonders like the Acropolis. The local cuisine is also diverse and delicious.

Nightlife
8

Athens, Greece has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. There are plenty of options for entertainment during the evening.

Adventure
6

While Athens, Greece may not be a top choice for extreme adventure activities, there are still opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking in nearby mountains or exploring the surrounding islands.

Relaxation
5

Athens, Greece is not known for its relaxing atmosphere. It is a bustling city with busy streets and limited green spaces. However, it does have some nearby beaches where you can unwind.

Best time to visit Athens

Athens, Greece offers a great travel experience throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

Jan
Mild weather, fewer tourists
10°C - 15°C
Feb
Off-peak season, lower prices
9°C - 14°C
Mar
Spring blooms, comfortable weather
10°C - 16°C
Apr
Warmer weather, fewer crowds
13°C - 20°C
May
Ideal weather for outdoor activities
17°C - 24°C
Jun
Long days, pleasant temperatures
21°C - 29°C
Jul
Sunny weather, vibrant festivals
24°C - 32°C
Aug
Hot weather, lively nightlife
25°C - 34°C
Sep
Mild weather, fewer crowds
21°C - 29°C
Oct
Pleasant weather, cultural events
16°C - 24°C
Nov
Milder weather, fewer tourists
12°C - 19°C
Dec
Off-peak season, festive atmosphere
9°C - 15°C

A guide To your first day of Athens vacation

morning

  • Visit the Acropolis and explore the ancient ruins
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Plaka neighborhood

afternoon

  • Explore the National Archaeological Museum
  • Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at a local taverna

evening

  • Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the city

night

  • Experience Athens' vibrant nightlife in the trendy Gazi district
  • Enjoy live music and traditional Greek dancing at a local taverna

How to get to Athens

By Plane

Athens International Airport (ATH) is the major gateway to Greece with excellent global connections. It offers convenient transfers to the city center in just 30 minutes by the Athens Metro, making it an ideal choice for travelers. Alternative options include flying to Thessaloniki (SKG) or Heraklion (HER) and taking domestic flights or ferries to Athens.

By other means

Athens is well-connected by public transport, particularly the Athens Metro, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding areas. The Athens Metro offers frequent services to key attractions and neighborhoods, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travelers. Additionally, Greece has an extensive bus network that connects Athens to other major cities and towns, providing convenient options for further exploration.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Video Reviews of Athens

Best for travelers who are ...

History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, foodies, and party-goers

How long to stay in Athens?

At least 3-4 days to see the major landmarks and experience the culture and nightlife of Athens.

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Nearby

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