As far as archaeological and ancient historical attractions go, few cities can quite match Athens’ résumé which, while impressive on paper, comes nowhere close to the reality of things. Although the city carries something of a stigma for some of the world’s worst traffic congestion; visitors who are patient and able to deal with such minor annoyances will find Athens a holiday destination unlike any other.
What it is: The capital and largest city of Greece, an ancient metropolis where classical ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and modern Greek culture come together.
Affordability: Mid-range, with budget-friendly street food and public transport, but higher costs for central hotels and major attractions.
Safety: Generally safe, though pickpocketing is common in crowded areas and on public transport.
Popularity: One of Europe’s top destinations, drawing millions for its history, lively atmosphere, and Mediterranean charm.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed, with an efficient metro system, plenty of accommodations, and guided tours.
Accommodation Options: Budget hostels, boutique hotels, historic stays, and luxury rooftop accommodations with Acropolis views.
Dining Scene: A mix of traditional tavernas, street food like souvlaki and gyros, and modern Mediterranean cuisine.
Nightlife: Energetic, with rooftop bars, live music venues, and late-night cafés, especially in areas like Psiri and Gazi.
Weather: Hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine year-round.
Best Time to Go: April to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller.
Known For: Acropolis, Parthenon, ancient ruins, Mediterranean food, mythology, lively plazas, street markets, scenic hills.
Top Attractions: Acropolis • Parthenon • Ancient Agora • Plaka District • Temple of Olympian Zeus • Monastiraki Flea Market • National Archaeological Museum • Mount Lycabettus.
- Population: Approximately 650,000 in the city; around 3.1 million in the metropolitan area.
- Emergency Numbers: 112 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
- Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2; Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), UTC +3 (March to October).
- Currency: Euro (€ EUR); ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.
- Language: Greek is the official language; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Electricity: Standard voltage is 230V; plugs are type C and F (European two-pin plugs).
- Internet: Widely available; free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and many public areas.
- Convenience stores: Found throughout the city, chains like AB Vassilopoulos, My Market, and many minimarkets and kiosks.
- Nearest International Airport: Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) (about 20 miles / 32 km east of the city center).
- Trivia: Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, with recorded history spanning over 3,400 years, and is often called the cradle of Western civilization.
- Iconic Local Foods: Must-try dishes include souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita (spinach pie), and baklava.
- Fun Fact: The Acropolis dominates Athens’ skyline and has stood watch over the city for more than 2,500 years.
Athens is the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, offering travelers a powerful mix of ancient history and energetic modern life. Most tourists come to see the iconic Acropolis, with its Parthenon temple, and explore ancient sites like the Agora and Temple of Olympian Zeus. But Athens also offers lively neighborhoods, great food, and sweeping views from its many hills, making it more than just a history lesson.
What makes Athens special is how ancient and modern worlds collide, you can explore 2,500-year-old ruins by day and enjoy trendy rooftop bars by night. The city is gritty but full of character, with a creative spirit that shines in its street art, live music, and bustling cafés.
Top attractions include the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views. Don’t miss Plaka’s charming streets, Monastiraki’s flea markets, or a day trip to Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon.
While Athens is a 21st century city in most senses of the term, it’s not the cosmopolitan ambience or dedication to finance, economics, industry and politics that provides its most significant draw cards. Ancient Greek history embodied in structures and sites such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Sanctuary of Eleusis and the Sanctuary of Artemis are top of the list for a good many visitors.
For those in search of a little self-indulgence, the city has venues catering to all needs and desires. Eating is more of a pastime than a necessity to Greeks; so taking the opportunity to enjoy a Greek banquet for an evening is a must for those wanting the full cultural experience. A few glasses of Ouzo (aniseed liquor) at a lively bar venue rounds an evening off nicely, as many a local will tell you.
For lodging, Plaka and Monastiraki are perfect for first-timers who want to be close to the main sights, while Psiri offers a hip, artsy vibe. Koukaki and Syntagma are also good central options. Athens has everything from luxury hotels with Acropolis views to budget guesthouses and apartments.
Getting around is straightforward with the Metro, buses, and trams. Walking is often the best way to explore the historic center, though summer heat can be intense. Taxis and rideshares are affordable but traffic can be heavy at peak times.
Athens’ dining scene includes classic tavernas serving souvlaki, moussaka, and fresh seafood, as well as modern takes on Greek cuisine. Nightlife ranges from low-key wine bars to vibrant clubs, especially in areas like Gazi and Psiri. Shopping spans from international brands to local crafts, leather goods, and open-air markets.
Athens is generally safe, though pickpocketing is common on crowded public transport and in busy tourist areas. Be prepared for summer heat and occasional demonstrations around Syntagma Square.
Why Go to Athens?
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Ancient Landmarks: Explore the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and centuries of Greek history.
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City Views: Climb Mount Lycabettus or find a rooftop bar for stunning panoramas.
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Greek Cuisine: Feast on local dishes like souvlaki, grilled fish, and feta-laden salads.
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Lively Neighborhoods: Wander through Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psiri for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
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Gateway to Islands: Start your Aegean adventure with easy connections to the Greek islands.
Who Might Not Enjoy Athens?
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Travelers Avoiding Heat: Summers are hot and dry, often topping 35°C (95°F).
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Visitors Wanting Green Spaces: Athens is urban and dusty; parks are few and small.
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Those Seeking Polished Streets: The city is vibrant but also gritty and a bit chaotic, which may not appeal to all.
What’s Cool
Acropolis and Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Plaka’s historic streets, National Archaeological Museum, panoramic views from Lycabettus Hill, vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, traditional tavernas and mezedes, rooftop bars with Acropolis views, changing of the guard at Syntagma, day trips to Cape Sounion and Delphi, film spots (Before Midnight, The Two Faces of January).
What’s Not
Scorching summers, air pollution and smog, traffic congestion, strikes disrupting transport, pickpocketing in crowded areas, tourist traps near landmarks, uneven sidewalks, graffiti in central districts, occasional political protests, noisy nightlife zones, limited green spaces in city center, slow table service.
Athens is located in southeastern Greece, in the Attica region, stretching across a basin surrounded by mountains and opening to the Saronic Gulf. The city sits about 8 km (5 miles) from the coast and is Greece’s capital and largest city. Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport serves as the main gateway, and Athens has a reliable metro, buses, trams, and taxis linking major areas.
Covering around 39 km² (15 mi²) in its central area, Athens is compact but sprawling in its greater metropolitan zone. The historic core is concentrated around the Acropolis and ancient ruins, while modern districts expand outward. The city is divided into neighborhoods like Plaka, Monastiraki, Syntagma, Kolonaki, and Psiri, each with its own character and appeal.
Most tourists stay in Plaka, Monastiraki, or Syntagma for central access to landmarks, dining, and transport.
Plaka
Plaka is Athens’ oldest neighborhood, set at the base of the Acropolis, with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and a village-like feel. It’s ideal for visitors wanting to immerse in history and charm.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) – Boutique hotels and guesthouses.
- Nearby Attractions: Acropolis • Parthenon • Anafiotika • Lysicrates Monument
- Dining: (Traditional) – Greek tavernas and outdoor cafés.
- Nightlife: (Quiet) – Wine bars and small terraces.
- Shopping: (Touristy) – Souvenir shops and artisan crafts.
Monastiraki
Monastiraki is vibrant and bustling, known for its flea market and central square. It’s a great base for sightseeing and shopping, with direct metro links to the airport and port.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Hotels, hostels, and apartments.
- Nearby Attractions: Hadrian’s Library • Roman Agora • Monastiraki Flea Market
- Dining: (Casual) – Gyro stands, bakeries, and traditional tavernas.
- Nightlife: (Busy) – Bars, rooftop lounges, and live music.
- Shopping: (Eclectic) – Markets, antiques, and crafts.
Syntagma
Syntagma is the political and commercial center of Athens, anchored by the Greek Parliament and its namesake square. It’s a practical, central location with easy metro access.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) – Chain hotels and boutique options.
- Nearby Attractions: Greek Parliament • National Garden • Ermou Street
- Dining: (Upscale) – International restaurants and brasseries.
- Nightlife: (Moderate) – Hotel bars and cocktail spots.
- Shopping: (Excellent) – High-street brands and malls.
Psiri
Psiri is a trendy, bohemian neighborhood full of street art, creative spaces, and lively bars. It’s popular with younger travelers and those seeking a hip local vibe.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Boutique hotels and apartments.
- Nearby Attractions: Iroon Square • Museum of Greek Folk Art
- Dining: (Trendy) – Mezze bars, bistros, and fusion spots.
- Nightlife: (Vibrant) – Clubs, bars, and music venues.
- Shopping: (Alternative) – Indie boutiques and artisan goods.
Kolonaki
Kolonaki is an upscale, residential area at the foot of Lycabettus Hill, known for its elegant cafés, galleries, and designer stores. It’s a quieter choice for those wanting sophistication.
- Accommodations: (High-End) – Boutique hotels and serviced apartments.
- Nearby Attractions: Lycabettus Hill • Benaki Museum • Byzantine and Christian Museum
- Dining: (Refined) – Fine dining and stylish cafés.
- Nightlife: (Chic) – Wine bars and lounge spots.
- Shopping: (Luxury) – Designer boutiques and high-end brands.
Koukaki
Koukaki is a relaxed neighborhood near the Acropolis, offering a more local feel with a growing reputation for cafés and guesthouses. It’s well-placed between major sites and local life.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Guesthouses and boutique hotels.
- Nearby Attractions: Acropolis Museum • Filopappou Hill • Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- Dining: (Casual) – Greek cafés and brunch spots.
- Nightlife: (Low-Key) – Café bars and small music venues.
- Shopping: (Local) – Bookstores and artisan shops.
Exarchia
Exarchia is known for its alternative scene, political murals, and student crowd. It’s not as polished as other districts but offers an edgy, authentic atmosphere.
- Accommodations: (Budget) – Hostels and simple hotels.
- Nearby Attractions: National Archaeological Museum • Strefi Hill
- Dining: (Bohemian) – Vegan spots, mezze cafés, and casual eateries.
- Nightlife: (Underground) – Bars, rock venues, and music clubs.
- Shopping: (Alternative) – Record stores and indie shops.