If you're thinking about traveling to Athens, Greece, you're in for a treat. Athens is a city rich in history, culture, and breathtaking views. From the iconic Acropolis to the bustling streets of Monastiraki, Athens has something to offer every type of traveler.
As the capital of Greece, Athens is a modern city with a vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. But it's also a city that's deeply rooted in history. The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, all of which date back to the 5th century BC.
Traveling to Athens is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Greek culture, from visiting the ancient Agora to strolling through the charming Plaka neighborhood. You can sample traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, or sip on a cold glass of ouzo while watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Athens is a destination that should be on your travel bucket list.
Getting to Athens
When planning a trip to Athens, it's important to consider the different transportation options available to get there. Here are the main ways to reach this beautiful city:
By Plane
Athens International Airport is the main airport in Greece and is located about 20 kilometers east of the city center. It's a modern airport with a wide range of facilities, including restaurants, shops, and car rental services. Many airlines offer direct flights to Athens from major cities around the world. Once you arrive at the airport, there are several ways to get to the city center, including:
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the airport and will take you to the city center in about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Metro: The airport is connected to the city center by the Metro Line 3. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs around 10 euros.
- Bus: Several bus routes connect the airport to different parts of Athens. The X95 bus is the most popular and runs 24 hours a day. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs around 6 euros.
By Train
If you're traveling from other parts of Greece or Europe, you can take a train to Athens. The main train station in Athens is called Larissa Station and is located in the city center. There are several daily trains from major Greek cities, as well as from neighboring countries like Bulgaria and Turkey. The journey times and prices vary depending on the origin and type of train.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, Athens is easily accessible by car. The city is connected to the rest of Greece by a network of highways, and there are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city center. However, keep in mind that traffic in Athens can be very congested, especially during peak hours.
Overall, there are several ways to reach Athens depending on your preferences and budget. By plane, train or car, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and rich history that this city has to offer.
Accommodations
Hotels
There are plenty of hotels in Athens, Greece to choose from. We recommend staying in the city center, as it is close to all the main attractions. Some of the popular hotels in Athens include:
- Hotel Grande Bretagne
- The Athens Gate Hotel
- Electra Palace Athens
These hotels offer luxurious amenities and are located in prime locations that are easily accessible by public transportation. Prices vary depending on the season, but expect to pay around €150-€300 per night.
Vrbo & Airbnbs
If you prefer a more local experience, staying in an Vrbo or Airbnb is a great option. There are plenty of apartments and houses available for rent in Athens, Greece, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Some of the popular neighborhoods for Vrbo and Airbnb rentals include Plaka, Koukaki, and Psirri.
Prices for an Airbnb in Athens vary depending on the location and size of the rental, but expect to pay around €50-€150 per night. Keep in mind that some Airbnb rentals may require a security deposit.
Hostels
If you're traveling on a budget, staying in a hostel is a great option. Athens has plenty of hostels to choose from, ranging from basic to more upscale. Some popular hostels include:
- Athens Backpackers
- City Circus Athens
- The Student and Travellers Inn
Hostels offer a great opportunity to meet other travelers and are usually located in central locations. Prices vary depending on the season, but expect to pay around €10-€30 per night.
Sightseeing
When it comes to sightseeing in Athens, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the must-see attractions:
Acropolis
The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Athens. It’s a hilltop citadel that contains several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. The view from the top of the Acropolis is breathtaking, and it’s a great way to get a sense of the layout of the city.
Parthenon
The Parthenon is one of the most famous buildings in the world, and for good reason. It’s an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, and it’s considered to be one of the greatest achievements of classical Greek architecture. The Parthenon is located on the Acropolis, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Athens.
Plaka
Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, and it’s a great place to explore if you’re interested in history and culture. The narrow streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. The area is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Greek Folk Art and the Museum of Popular Music Instruments.
Other notable sights in Athens include the Ancient Agora, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Athens.
Food and Drink
Traditional Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Some of the most popular traditional dishes in Athens include moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita. Moussaka is a layered dish made with eggplant, potatoes, ground beef, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Souvlaki is a popular street food that consists of grilled meat on a skewer, usually served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce. Spanakopita is a savory pastry made with spinach and feta cheese.
Tavernas and Restaurants
In Athens, there are plenty of tavernas and restaurants that serve traditional Greek cuisine. Some of our favorite spots include To Kati Allo, which is known for its seafood dishes, and Oineas, which has a cozy atmosphere and serves delicious meze (small plates). For a more upscale dining experience, we recommend visiting Funky Gourmet, which has two Michelin stars and serves innovative Greek cuisine.
Cafes and Bars
Athens is also home to many cafes and bars where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or a refreshing cocktail. For a classic Athenian experience, we recommend visiting one of the city's historic cafes, such as Cafe Trianon or Cafe Melina. If you're looking for a trendy spot to grab a drink, head to Six Dogs, a popular bar that hosts live music and art events. Overall, Athens has a vibrant food and drink scene that offers something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Greek cuisine or a trendy cocktail bar, you're sure to find it in this bustling city.
Day Trips
If you have extra time in Athens, there are several day trips that you can take to explore the surrounding areas. Here are a few options:
Sounion and Cape of Sounion
Located about an hour and a half drive from Athens, Sounion and Cape of Sounion are popular day trip destinations. You can visit the Temple of Poseidon, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. The views are breathtaking, and it's a great spot to watch the sunset. There are also several beaches in the area where you can swim and relax.
Delphi
Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. It's about a two-hour drive from Athens, and you can visit the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater, and the Delphi Museum. The views of the surrounding mountains are stunning, and it's a great place to learn about ancient Greek history and mythology.
Meteora
Meteora is a unique destination located about four hours from Athens. It's famous for its monasteries, which are perched on top of towering rock formations. You can take a guided tour to explore the monasteries and learn about the history of the area. The views from the top are stunning, and it's a great place to take photos.
Overall, there are plenty of day trip options from Athens that offer a glimpse into Greece's rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in ancient ruins or stunning landscapes, there's something for everyone.
Other things to do in Athens Greece that you might be interested in include visiting the Acropolis, exploring the Plaka neighborhood, and trying traditional Greek cuisine.
