Athens - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Athens

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Athens, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Athens and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Athens, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Athens for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece, located in the central part of the country. It has a rich history spanning more than 3,000 years and is known as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theater. Visitors can explore a plethora of ancient ruins and landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. In addition to its archaeological sites, Athens also boasts a vibrant modern culture, with a bustling nightlife, delicious cuisine, and a thriving art scene. The city is easily accessible by plane, ferry, train, or bus, making it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

What to visit in Athens

1. Acropolis of Athens: The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains a group of buildings and structures, the most famous being the Parthenon. It is known for its historical and architectural significance and provides insight into the ancient Greek civilization.
2. Parthenon: The Parthenon is a temple built in dedication to the goddess Athena, and is one of the most famous landmarks in Athens. It is a symbol of Athenian democracy and has been a part of the city's skyline for over 2,500 years.
3. National Archaeological Museum: The National Archaeological Museum is one of the largest and most important museums of archaeological artifacts in the world, containing over 11,000 exhibits. It is home to artifacts from the Neolithic era to the Roman period, with notable collections including Mycenaean pottery, ancient jewelry, and sculptures.
4. Temple of Olympian Zeus: The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a colossal temple dedicated to the king of the gods in Greek mythology, Zeus. It took over 700 years to complete and was the largest temple in Greece when it was finished.
5. Ancient Agora of Athens: The Ancient Agora of Athens is a historical marketplace which was the center of political and cultural life in Athens. It is home to several ancient Greek temples and museums.
6. Plaka: Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and is known for its quaint winding streets, ancient ruins, and neoclassical architecture. It is home to several shops, bars, and taverns.
7. Monastiraki flea market: Monastiraki is one of the most famous flea markets in Athens and is known for its vintage goods, antiques, and handmade crafts.
8. Lycabettus Hill: Lycabettus Hill is a 908-foot-high limestone hill in central Athens with a steep climb to its summit, which offers panoramic views of Athens.
9. Syntagma Square: Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens and is home to the Greek Parliament building. It is a popular spot for people watching and enjoying live performances.
10. Benaki Museum: The Benaki Museum is a museum of Greek art and culture and is one of the oldest and most important cultural institutions in Greece. It has a vast collection of ancient and modern Greek art, including sculptures, pottery, and textiles.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Athens.

When to go on holiday to Athens

The best time to visit Athens is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. Summers in Athens are hot and crowded, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and high levels of humidity. Winter months can be rainy and chilly, although temperatures typically hover above 10°C (50°F). However, Athens is a year-round destination and there are always things to see and do regardless of the season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Athens

There are several ways to get to Athens, Greece: 1. By plane: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos is the primary airport serving Athens. It is a hub for many major international airlines and is well-connected to other parts of the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach your destination in Athens.
2. By train: Athens is connected to other major cities in Europe via train, with daily train services available from many major European cities like Paris, Berlin, and Vienna.
3. By bus: Athens is well-connected to other major cities in Greece and Europe via bus, with daily services available from many major cities like Thessaloniki, Istanbul, and Sofia.
4. By car: Greece has a well-developed road network, and you can drive to Athens from other parts of the country or Europe.
Overall, flying to Athens is the quickest and most convenient way to get to the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Athens, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Athens

Sure, here are some typical foods you can find in Athens, Greece with a short description for each of them: 1. Moussaka: A layered dish made with eggplant, ground meat, tomato sauce, and béchamel sauce.
2. Souvlaki: Grilled meat (usually pork) on a skewer served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
3. Spanakopita: A savory pie made with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and phyllo pastry.
4. Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat.
5. Fava: A dip made with yellow split peas, onion, and olive oil. Often served with bread.
6. Keftedes: Fried meatballs made with ground beef or lamb, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
7. Greek Salad: A typical Greek salad includes lettuce, tomato, onion, cucumber, feta cheese, and olives, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar.
8. Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo pastry, honey, and nuts, typically walnuts or pistachios.
9. Gyro: Thinly sliced meat (usually pork or chicken) served in a pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.
10. Taramasalata: A dip made with fish roe, bread crumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, and onions. Served with bread or crackers.
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Athens an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Europe, Athens can be considered relatively affordable. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year you travel and the specific activities and accommodations you choose. During peak tourist season (June through August), prices tend to be higher than during the off-season. Additionally, some of the more popular tourist attractions, such as the Acropolis, can be relatively expensive to enter. However, there are also many free things to see and do in Athens, such as walking around the city's historic neighborhoods and enjoying the street art scene. Overall, with a bit of budgeting and planning, it is definitely possible to enjoy Athens without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Athens

For visitors to Athens, the best areas to look for accommodation are typically the historic center of Athens, also known as the Plaka neighborhood, or the areas of Monastiraki and Syntagma. These districts offer convenient access to famous landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora, as well as many museums, shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Other popular areas to consider for accommodation in Athens include the trendy neighborhood of Kolonaki, the seaside district of Glyfada, and the artistic neighborhood of Exarchia.
You can check hotel prices at Athens here:
Booking.com

Is Athens a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Athens is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any big city, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and avoiding isolated or poorly-lit areas at night. It's also a good idea to stay informed on any local safety concerns or travel advisories before your trip. Overall, Athens is a popular tourist destination and offers a great experience for visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Athens.

What type of travelers will enjoy Athens the most?

Athens is a versatile city that has something to offer for all types of travelers. However, certain groups might enjoy the city more than others, depending on their interests and preferences.
Couples: Athens is a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city is known for its beautiful ancient landmarks, picturesque neighborhoods, and romantic restaurants with a stunning view of the Acropolis.
Young people looking for fun: Athens is also an excellent destination for young people looking for fun. The city has a vibrant nightlife, trendy bars, and clubs that cater to all kinds of music tastes. During the summer months, many music festivals and cultural events take place in Athens, making it a hub for young people from all over the world.
Families: Athens is a family-friendly destination with many activities suitable for children of all ages. The city has many archaeological sites to explore, museums, parks, and beaches. Families can also enjoy a ride on the Athens Tram, which provides stunning views of the Athenian Riviera.
In summary, Athens is a perfect destination for couples, young people looking for fun, and families.

How to get around Athens

There are several transportation options to move around Athens, including the metro, buses, trams, taxis, and private car rentals. The metro is the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel within Athens, with three lines covering most parts of the city. Buses and trams are also good options, although they can be crowded during peak hours. Taxis are widely available but can be relatively expensive. Private car rentals can provide flexibility but may be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking options in the city center.

What to see around Athens

Here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Athens: 1. Cape Sounion - famous for the Temple of Poseidon overlooking the Aegean Sea.
2. Delphi - ancient site of the famous Oracle, home to beautiful ruins and artifacts.
3. Corinth - ancient Greek city with ruins of famous temples, baths and fountains.
4. Mycenae - archaeological site and home to the famous Lion's Gate.
5. Hydra Island - charming and picturesque island with stunning views and no cars allowed.
6. Nafplio - historic seaside town with charming architecture and a stunning fortress.
7. Vouliagmeni Lake - natural thermal spa lake with crystal-clear waters surrounded by rocky landscape and lush greenery. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further assistance.
For every travel information about Greece you can click here.

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