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About this guide
As one of the most captivating destinations in the Mediterranean, Athens, Greece offers a unique blend of ancient history and cultural modernity. From the iconic Acropolis to the bustling streets of Plaka, Athens is brimming with deeply rooted heritage and treasure troves of knowledge. Known as the birthplace of democracy, arts, science, and philosophy of Western civilization, Athens holds a dynamic spot on the world stage to this day. The Classic City provides ample opportunities to immerse in the rich tapestry of Greece. From the most delicious Mediterranean cuisine to the contemporary art scene to retracing the footsteps of ancient philosophers to enjoying the nightlife, there’s a trip for every traveler to experience Greece.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), November to March (off-season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Greek
- Noteworthy: Athens Street Food Festival (May), Athens Technopolis Jazz Festival (May to June), Athens Epidaurus Festival (June to August), Athens Marathon – The Authentic (November)
- Best for: Romantic Getaways, Mediterranean Food and Wine Lovers, Old World History Buffs, European Vacation
Get Away: Getting To And Around Athens, Greece
By Air
Flying into Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is typically the primary international gateway into Athens, Greece. It’s also the main way to get to other Greek islands when creating a more expansive itinerary. Major airlines offer direct flights from most global cities and affordable flights during the shoulder and off seasons.
By Car
Consider renting a vehicle from one of the many rental agencies available at Athens International Airport or throughout the city. While driving, be mindful of traffic laws, one-way and narrow streets, and heavy traffic in the city center. Additionally, using a GPS makes navigation more efficient in the city's challenging layout.
By Public Transit
The public transit in Athens utilizes an extensive network of buses, trolleys, and the metro system that connects various parts of the city and its suburbs. The Monastiraki Square Metro Station system, in particular, has efficient and affordable direct routes to Athens International Airport. For added convenience, an Athens Transport ticket provides unlimited access to all public transportation modes for a specified duration.
Explore Athens, Greece On Foot
Experience Athens like the Grecians do by exploring the beauty of the city on foot on this truly Mediterranean vacation. Many of the city's major attractions, such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki, are within walking distance of each other. Whether on a planned route or a guided tour, walking allows travelers to visit historic Old World institutions, charming local cafes, and enriching neighborhoods.
Quick facts
Eastern European Time (EET)
Euro (€)
Greek
Good For
Romantic Getaways
Mediterranean Food and Wine Lovers
Old World History Buffs
European Vacation
Keep in mind
- Athens Street Food Festival (May)
- Athens Technopolis Jazz Festival (May to June)
- Athens Epidaurus Festival (June to August)
- Athens Marathon – The Authentic (November)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Athens, Greece
Hill Athens Restaurant in Thissio offers modern Greek cuisine and Mediterranean cocktails with a uniquely close view of the iconic Acropolis. With an award-winning menu designed by chef Dimitris Dimitriadis, the restaurant serves dishes like classic Greek salad, potato gnocchi, and chocolate soufflé.
Located in the most visited street of Athens Monastiraki, Theta Athens has an all-day coffee and cocktail bar menu with diverse offerings. Breakfast includes omelets and poached eggs Benedict with lunch favorites like club sandwiches, chicken Kotopita pie, and classic Greek salad.
The Symposio Resto Bar showcases Mediterranean fusion cuisine paired with an extensive wine and cocktails menu. Enjoy dishes such as poached eggs with smoked salmon, sea bass filet with roasted vegetables, and seafood linguine pomodoro.
Just on the outskirts of Plaka, Iliada serves freshly baked pastries, brunch, and lunch dishes. The restaurant is famous for some of the best gyros in town with desserts like classic milkshakes and Baklava.
Oinoscent, Athens’ first wine bar, opened in December 2008, and has become a favorite for its exceptional Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Chef John Tsikoudakis and his experienced team create sensational meals using mostly local, seasonal ingredients.
Enjoy specialty coffee, fresh juices, and smoothies at Usurum Brunch and Cocktails, which includes an amazing brunch and lunch menu. Locally-sourced ingredients make up dishes like healthy bowls, Shakshuka eggs, wild spinach pie, sweet pancakes, and Tsoureki French toast.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Athens, Greece
When in Greece, eat like the Grecians on the Get A Taste Of Athens Food Tour for a vacation of globally-renowned cuisine. The guided tour of the Greek capital city lets visitors indulge in many classic and regional dishes.
The Athens And Acropolis Mythological Tour immerse guests in Greek history and architecture embedded with ancient stories of Greek gods, heroes, and villians. A guide shares the stories that inspired these historic Classic City sites, including visiting temples dedicated to Zeus and Hephaestus.
This Greek Small-Group Athens Cooking Class teaches hands-on techniques to make authentic Greek dishes like roasted lamb and spanakopita. Located in a central Athens taverna, guests enjoy a delicious three-course meal and a drink with a breathtaking Acropolis view.
With gorgeous Aegean Sea views, this Cape Sounion And Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Tour highlights the ruins of the Temple of Poseidon. Guests make the convenient and comfortable journey in an air-conditioned minivan with guided commentary and plenty of time to explore.
Old City Hamam Spa is the ultimate five-star spot for traditional Hamam treatments like Turkish baths and natural soap foam massages. The Royal Treatment offers a kese and magnesium scrub with a body mask made from honey, sesame seeds, and lavender.
Enjoy a half-day trip on a Luxury Catamaran Cruise along the scenic Athens Riviera, complete with a traditional Greek and BBQ meal prepared by the crew. Complete with hotel transfers and unlimited drinks, they offer a morning or sunset tour lounging in the Greek sun in leisure and luxury.
This ceramic workshop in Athens teaches guests pottery techniques to create personal souvenirs using a pottery wheel and paint. The two-hour session includes glazing and baking services, and guests short on time can mail the finished piece.
Create a Greek silk scarf in a cozy studio with drinks, cookies, and music—and no prior experience required. Guests can design a unique souvenir using Greek mythology, religion, and historical patterns made by the instructor with delicate materials.
