Athens is a historic wonderland that welcomes millions of visitors each year. The Acropolis, with its hilltop ruins and the Parthenon, is indisputably Athens’ top draw. The city's also the gateway to the island of Hydra and ancient Delphi. But don't be deceived by the Greek capital's antique status as the cradle of Western Civilization—it also boasts some of Europe’s best cuisine and nightlife.
Athens sizzles with sunshine and crowds in the summer, especially in July, when the average temperature is 86°F (30°C). Paradoxically, August is relatively quiet because many Athenians are away on vacation. April through June and September through November are more comfortable, with warm weather ideal for exploring the city’s ancient sites. Athens also offers a number of fun events throughout the year, including the Athens Epidaurus Festival, which includes outdoor theater, arts, and music—and runs all summer—and the Beer Festival, in September.
Most of Athens’ must-see sites are within walking distance of each other; it takes about 15 minutes to stroll from the Acropolis to attractions like Hadrian’s Arch or Plaka. The city’s bus and metro lines are also good for traveling between downtown sites. Buy Ath.ena tickets at stations, which will let you use the bus, metro, tram, and light rail networks that crisscross the city and the surrounding areas. Other options include taxis ad apps like Uber and Beat.
If you’re watching your spending, visit as many attractions as possible on the first Sunday of the month (from April to November), when entry is free to top attractions, including the Acropolis, museums, and key archaeological sites. After sightseeing, stay on the budget-friendly track and explore the Sunday flea market in Athens’ Monastiraki neighborhood. This whirl of bric-a-brac and clothing stalls is a local favorite and is great for picking up quirky trinkets, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Maria-Venetia divides her time between the UK and Greece. Her ultimate dream is to own an eco- and pet-friendly small boutique hotel in Milos, the island she comes from.
download the Beat taxi app. Taxis are pretty cheap and a great way to discover less touristy areas such as Chalandri, Kifissia, Mikrolimano, and Glyfada.
starts with brunch at the Underdog café and a stroll along Dionysiou Areopagitou to Monastiraki’s flea market. Grab lunch at Nolan and a real Greek coffee at Kapnikarea before heading to Psyrri for Athens' best nightlife.
the Acropolis. That and the nearby museum are definitely unmissable.
visit Anafiotika, a place that time forgot. Not only does it look and feel like you’re on a Greek island, you’ll get amazing views of the Acropolis.
take the cable car to the top of Lycabettus Hill before sunset for a fab view of all the ancient monuments lighting up.
Known as the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is replete with antiquities, many dating from its 5th-century BC “Golden Age.” Must-visits include the UNESCO-protected Acropolis, home of the Parthenon and other temples; and numerous other archaeological relics and museums, all clustered near its central Syntagma Square and old Plaka district.
...MoreThree days is recommended. Spend the first covering crowd-pullers like the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and the Changing of the Guard at the Unknown Soldier’s Tomb. Then, over the next two days, explore the New Acropolis Museum, shop and eat in old Plaka, and visit Cape Sounion’s clifftop Temple of Poseidon.
...MoreAthens draws tourists largely for its ancient treasures. The city is crowned by the Acropolis—a hilltop of temples from the 5th century BC. After that, there’s still a long list to check through, from the ancient Agora and Hadrian’s Arch to the charismatic Plaka quarter and lovely Syntagma Square.
...MoreHead first for the Acropolis, once the fulcrum of the ancient Greek empire. Must-sees here include the spectacular Parthenon, Temple of the Athena Nike, and Erechtheion; each a vision of gleaming marble. Also not-to-be-missed is the statue-stuffed New Acropolis Musem, and Athens’ Changing of the Guard ceremony, performed by pom-pom-shoed soldiers.
...MoreAthenians love fun, so it’s easy to find. Enjoy the relaxed vibe in Plaka’s cafés and squares, join locals over Greek coffee, and dance to bouzoukis (lutes) at open-till-late tavernas. Don’t miss Athens’ nightlife, either: hit Monastiraki’s clubs, catch an outdoor movie, or visit one of the city’s glam rooftop bars.
...MoreYes, especially around signature sites like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, which draw sightseers year-round. Yet, it’s easy to find a quieter Athens. Escape the tourist buzz in Anafiotika’s whitewashed houses and geranium-potted lanes; in the galleries and cafés of hip Kypseli, and at lower-profile establishments like the airy Cycladic Art Museum.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 64 |
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Number of Tours | 2,969 |
Number of Reviews | 45,138 |
Currency | USD |
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