Athens Travel Guide: All You Need to Know

Looking for your dream city break? Why not visit Athens? As the capital of Greece, Athens has a deep-rooted history that spans back almost 3,400 years. In recent times, it is known for being a popular tourist destination, with spectacular landmarks and a vivacious nightlife. There are 3 ports in Athens, making it an ideal location for ferry travel and island hopping. 

This guide will provide you with everything that you need to know about Athens and the best things to do while you are visiting.

Where is Athens?

Greece has so many different islands but where is the capital? Athens is located on the southeast coast of mainland Greece, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The city is situated within a vast plain known as the Attica Basin, flanked by four mountains: Mt. Aigaleo, Mt. Parnitha, Mt. Pentelicon and Mt. Hymettus. 

Things to do in Athens

Please be aware that prices are approximate and might vary depending on the season. We suggest that you check the current prices and transportation options before you travel.

Is Athens expensive?

Are you travelling to Athens on a budget? If so, you will be pleased to know that it’s widely considered one of the cheapest cities in Europe. Post Office Travel Money examined average tourist costs in 20 popular cities and discovered that prices in Athens have dropped by as much as 15% since 2021. 
If you are looking for affordable dining, we recommend that you visit local tavernas and traditional eateries. As for the main tourist attractions, entry fees are very reasonably priced so you will have no worries about running out of money.

If you are looking for affordable dining, we recommend that you visit local tavernas and traditional eateries. As for the main tourist attractions, entry fees are very reasonably priced so you will have no worries about running out of money.

Beaches in Athens

Need a dose of vitamin sea? While Athens is more of an urban city, the Attica region does has a beautiful coastline, with several beaches to enjoy in the sunshine. Many are located only a few miles from the city centre and are easily accessible via bus, tram or taxi. 
Situated only 15km (9 miles) south of the city centre, Glyfada Beach is a perfect spot for sunbathers. It has everything from cafes, bars and restaurants along the coast as well as sunbeds. If you prefer something more upmarket, Astir Beach is an exclusive beach club with luxury facilities, located 25km (15.5 miles) south of Athens.   

Situated only 15km (9 miles) south of the city centre, Glyfada Beach is a perfect spot for sunbathers. It has everything from cafes, bars and restaurants along the coast as well as sunbeds. If you prefer something more upmarket, Astir Beach is an exclusive beach club with luxury facilities, located 25km (15.5 miles) south of Athens.   

Where to stay in Athens

Choosing where to stay in Athens can be a difficult decision, especially when you are spoilt for options. There are many popular neighbourhoods in the city, each with their own charm and identity. But luckily, we have narrowed it down to make your life easier.

If you want to remain close to the vibrant street life and the ancient landmarks, Plaka is the place for you. As one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens, its neoclassical architecture and narrow streets capture the historical magic of the city. It’s also a short walk from the Acropolis Museum.

Located further north is the alternative neighbourhood of Exarcheia. This is ideal for budget travellers and for those seeking a diverse cultural experience, with plenty of independent cafes and anarchist bookstores. It not only provides easy access to the metro, but also a youthful atmosphere. 

Island Hopping from Athens

Fancy yourself a trip to the islands of Greece? Say no more. Athens is a very convenient place for ferry travel as it has 3 separate ports: Pireaus port, Rafina port and Lavrio port. These each offer regular ferries from Athens to Crete and the surrounding islands. 

If you are searching for day trips from Athens by ferry, then look no further. There are lots of beautiful islands within close distance of the Greek capital. Here are some of the best options:

Athens to Aegina Ferry

• Distance from Athens: approximately 16.5 nautical miles (30.5km)

• Ferry Time: 40 minutes

• Ferry Operators: Aegean Flying Dolphins, Anes Ferries, Hellenic Seaways & Saronic Ferries

• Departure Port: Piraeus 

• Weekly Sailings: 72

Athens to Hydra Ferry

• Distance from Athens: approximately 14 nautical miles (25.9km)

• Ferry Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

• Ferry Operators: Alpha Lines and Hellenic Seaways

• Departure Port: Piraeus

• Weekly Sailings: 15

Athens to Poros Ferry

• Distance from Athens: 25 nautical miles (46.3km)

• Ferry Time: 55 minutes

• Ferry Operators: Alpha Lines, Saronic Ferries and Hellenic Seaways

• Departure Port: Piraeus

• Weekly Sailings: 13

Athens to Spetses Ferry

• Distance from Athens: approximately 52 nautical miles (96.3km)

• Ferry Time: 2 hours and 5 minutes

• Ferry Operators: Alpha Lines and Hellenic Seaways

• Departure Port: Piraeus

• Weekly Sailings: 15

Athens Weather

Make sure you pack your suncream because Athens is a perfect destination for those who enjoy a warm climate. It typically experiences hot temperatures throughout the summer months, with an average high of 29 degrees Celsius in July and August. While the rainy season usually arrives between December and February.

What is the best time to visit Athens?

If you don’t mind the busy crowds, then a great time of year to visit Athens is June to August. However, if you prefer to go when it’s quieter then we suggest visiting in March, May or September. 

How many days do you need in Athens?

Nobody wants a holiday to end. But sometimes you can outstay your welcome. It is widely recommended that you stay a minimum of 3 to 4 days in Athens to make your trip worthwhile. This will give you enough time to explore most of the top attractions in the city. However, you can always stay longer if you wish to visit the surrounding islands like Hydra and Aegina. 

How to get around Athens

Are you someone who struggles with directions? Don’t panic. Athens is a very straightforward city to navigate, where most of the attractions are centred around the Acropolis, the highest point in the city. If you want to burn off your falafels, Athens is perfectly walkable. 

An easy way of travelling around Athens is by metro. The metro service operates from 5:30am to past midnight every day and consists of three lines: red, green and blue. There are stops at most of the popular neighbourhoods including Omonia, Syntagma and Monastiraki.

You can reach Syntagma Station from Athens Airport by taking Line 3 (blue). Return tickets on this route usually cost €18. Alternatively, you can catch the X95 bus, which departs regularly from Syntagma Square and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.  

Athens Food

Where better to sample Greek food than Athens? They have a range of dining options including authentic grill houses, ouzeries and koutoukia (cosy family-run restaurants) serving Keftedakia (fried meatballs), dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves), spetsofai (sausage with peppers) and soutzouki (spicy sausage). You can even wash this down with a local liqueur like tsipouro or raki. 

Vegetarians don’t need to miss out on the fun. There are also vegetarian and vegan options in almost every taverna and restaurants in Athens. Some of the most popular places are Vegan Beats Athens, Mama Tierra and Solasta. Keep your eyes peeled for our favourite vegan delicacies including tempeh gyro, mushroom gyro and gemista (peppers stuffed with a rice mixture and baked).

Athens Hotels

If you are looking for a place to stay in Athens, you have so many options. Whether you are looking for luxury or affordability, here is a list of the best hotels to get you started:

Hotel prices are approximate and might vary depending on the season you travel, room type and availability. Please contact the hotel directly or the booking platform to get the latest pricing information.