Few cities are as beautiful or as historically significant as Athens, Greece. Renowned for its fascinating ruins and awe-inspiring architecture, this Greek wonder has a long history of cultural and academic achievement. Now known as the cradle of democracy, this vibrant city holds the answers to many philosophical questions we've been asking for millennia.
Beyond all this, there are so many things to do in Athens, no matter what type of traveler you are. There is an adventurous appeal to wandering among ruins or narrow city streets and discovering one surprise after another. Add in amazing food, unique shopping destinations, and a vibrant nightlife scene and your journey to Athens becomes not only intellectually stimulating, but also, full of contemporary appeal.
Despite all these perks, traveling to Athens can feel overwhelming. Winding streets, although exciting, can be difficult to navigate — and with so many ancient ruins and structures to see, it can be difficult to know where to start. AAA is here to help. In this detailed travel guide to Athens, we'll touch on all the essentials: where to stay, what to eat and how to save money without compromising your itinerary.
How to Get Around Athens
Athens is a remarkably walkable city and, if you don't spend at least one day simply strolling, you will do yourself a disservice. This is how you'll stumble upon mouthwatering food, unique souvenirs and some truly amazing memories.
Depending on where you stay and which attractions you want to check out, however, you may eventually make use of the public transit system. Although not as robust as in some European cities, this should help you get around, especially if you're willing to stick to the city center.
Urban Rail Transport S.A. lines run consistently, with affordable tickets easily purchased from metro stations. Bus routes, however, can be confusing — and the bus stops are often difficult to locate.
Car rentals can be appealing to some visitors, although traffic and parking hassles are to be expected. If you want to take day trips, however, you'll need to choose between car rentals and guided bus tours.
Best Time to Visit Athens
Athens is always gorgeous, but the summer season presents some challenges. This is when Athens gets hot and crowded. School schedules may force families to visit during this time, but spring or winter breaks may be preferable — crowds are still likely, but with cooler weather. June tends to be a bit less chaotic than July or August. September offers summer vibes but fewer crowds.
Shoulder season visits are strongly recommended, with May in particular, promising pleasant weather — and a wonderful city festival. Music lovers will want to visit at the end of May when a remarkable jazz festival brings top musicians from all around the world to Athens. May also delivers plenty of amazing flavors, as this month marks the best of the local street food festival.
December offers its unique appeal, with a festive spirit taking over along with beautiful lights and delicious holiday treats. The delightful Christmas village is a must-visit when traveling with children, as is the Christmas World of Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
Top Things to Do in Athens
It's easy to keep occupied in Athens, where ruins and museums abound. These will certainly keep you busy, introducing you to the most fascinating stories from Greek history. The only tricky part? Narrowing down your long itinerary to fit in all of your top things to do while visiting Athens. These essentials should be at the top of your list:
Acropolis
- Time needed : 3-4 hours
It can be tempting to skip certain Athens icons for fear of crowds, but the Acropolis is worth a visit even when it's busy. This ancient citadel captures the true spirit of Athens, both past and present. The Acropolis represents one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites, featuring not only the famed Parthenon, but also, many other mesmerizing and historically significant temples.
The secret, as with any major attraction, is to arrive early; the longer you wait, the more people will gather and the more time you'll spend baking in the sun. Otherwise, you can get a lot more out of the experience by joining a guided walking tour, which will introduce you to the many ancient secrets of the Acropolis.
National Archaeological Museum
- Time needed: 3-4 hours
The Acropolis attracts all the attention, but the National Archaeological Museum should play just as central a role in your Athens experience. It would not be an overstatement to refer to this as one of the world's most important museums; it's a treasure trove of knowledge and home to some extremely important exhibits. Housed in a visually impressive neoclassical structure, the museum has remarkable collections of Cycladic and Neolithic antiquities.
Benaki Museum
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
Housed in the Benaki family mansion, the Benaki Museum boasts an extensive collection of Greek art, spanning millennia and incorporating many distinct mediums and styles. The mansion setting ensures that the museum itself feels like a visual spectacle, regardless of the exhibits on display. That being said, the pottery and paintings are gorgeous. Several satellite museums are also worth exploring, offering child-friendly experiences or a delightful introduction to Islamic art.
Athens National Garden
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
Green space can sometimes feel lacking in the heart of Athens, but the National Garden addresses this by providing a lush environment in which you can easily unwind. Home to 7,000 trees — including many Greek natives — this gorgeous garden has been lovingly curated and is sure to delight the senses with its natural beauty and its lovely fragrances. No visit is complete without a stop by the beloved turtle pond, where, if you're lucky, you'll spot baby turtles. You'll also want to keep an eye out for green parrots and koi fish.
Mount Lycabettus
- Time needed: At least 1 hour to climb
As the highest point in Athens, Mount Lycabettus provides a better feel for the grandeur of this ancient city. If you're feeling ambitious, you can climb this sizable hill via a walking tour or as a simple hike. Otherwise, take the cable car, which is a fun experience on its own and is also reasonably priced. Bring binoculars so you can enjoy the 360° views once you reach the summit. Don't forget to check out the beautifully whitewashed St. George Church.
Where to Stay in Athens
Accommodations can play a huge role in shaping your Athens experience. This is more than a place to crash at the end of a busy day — this is your chance to feel rested, rejuvenated and even pampered. Location is everything, and ideally, you'll find yourself within walking distance of the city's most iconic structures. A lot depends on your itinerary and budget, but Athens definitely offers something for everyone. For an elevated experience, book your room or suite at one of these gems:
King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- Address: 3 Vasileos Georgiou A' str., Syntagma Square, Athens, 105 64
- Great For: Luxurious or romantic getaways
With a name like King George, you can expect a refined experience at one of Athens's most serene hotels. Thoughtful features such as oil paintings and silk bed covers grant this hotel a classic beauty, although contemporary features (such as flat-screen TVs) can also be expected.
The rooftop restaurant is spectacular, offering awe-inspiring views along with flavorful dishes. Other amenities include a well-equipped fitness studio and a beautiful lobby. The luxurious rooms and suites come stocked with refreshments and provide a true oasis in the bathroom: the rainfall showers and plush bathrobes in particular, will make it easy to unwind.
Hotel Grande Bretagne A Luxury Collection Hotel
- Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A' str., Syntagma Square, Athens, 105 64
- Great For: Spa lovers and foodies
Opulence awaits at the Hotel Grande Bretagne, where you will be blown away by the gilded decor, the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the beautiful artwork. Nightly turndown and personalized butler services will have you feeling fully pampered, as will the onsite GB Spa and its many rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the outdoor pool or take in the view of the Acropolis from the GB Roof Garden Restaurant.
Grecotel The Dolli At Acropolis
- Address: Mitropoleos 49, Athens, 105 56
- Great For: Scenery and intimate experience
When location is a priority, you can't beat The Dolli. There's nothing quite like enjoying a leisurely breakfast while you feast your eyes on the legendary beauty of the Acropolis. This boutique hotel offers far more than stunning views, however; it also boasts a dazzling pool and a fully-equipped gym. With just a few dozen rooms and apartments, The Dolli promises an intimate experience that many vacationers will find appealing.
The Marblous Hotel
- Address: 24 Voulis And, Mitropoleos Street, Athens, 105 63
- Great For: Budget travelers who crave luxurious details
With a name derived from terms like "marble" and "marvelous," The Marblous Hotel promises a welcoming atmosphere while capturing the essence of modern Athens. The contemporary rooms are cozy and chic, featuring rain showers, espresso machines and pillow menus to ensure comfort for every type of traveler. After a restful night's sleep, enjoy a perfect start to the day with breakfast or brunch at Marblous Bistrot. A short walk will take you to the National Garden or the National Historic Museum at the Old Parliament House.
Coco-Mat Athens BC
- Address: Falirou 5, Athens, 117 42
- Great For: Eco-oriented and budget-conscious vacationers
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kolonaki, which is home to a gem of a hotel: Coco-Mat Athens BC. Designed by the talented architect Emmanuel Lazarides, this hotel brings cosmopolitan sensibilities to the forefront. Unexpected touches abound, including an herbal garden (that induces an instant sense of calm) and bike rentals that provide a new and exciting way to explore the city. Bespoke Tailor-Made Sleep experience should ensure an excellent night of sleep.
Where to Eat in Athens
Other than gazing at ancient architecture, eating is one of the great delights when visiting Athens. From world-class restaurants to street food and everything in between, your dining experience can be as indulgent or as casual as you desire. Either way, you'll be blown away by the herbs, spices, and copious amounts of olive oil.
Gyros are a must, but you'll also want to sample local staples such as keftedes (Greek meatballs) and brim (similar to ratatouille). Not sure where to start? A food-centric walking tour can introduce you to the city's best dishes. Otherwise, add these amazing restaurants to your list:
Kosta Souvlaki
- Address: Pl. Agias Irinis 2, Athens, 105 60
- Reservations: Not required
Thought by many to serve the best souvlaki in Athens, this humble restaurant is a must-visit when you crave a tasty, but affordable meal. Long lines can be expected and, on a hot day, you might wonder if your souvlaki is worth the wait. The answer is a definitive yes, as you'll discover while enjoying flavorful skewers and the best pitas in town. Low prices make this local favorite even more compelling.
Makris Athens
- Address: Astiggos 10, Ermou 119, Athens, 105 55
- Reservations: Strongly recommended
Enjoy a remarkable gastronomic journey at Makris, which reflects the best of the fine dining experience in Athens. Dinner with a view is to be expected, as this restaurant's rooftop seating overlooks the Temple of Hephaestus.
This visual appeal extends to the presentation, with dishes almost too beautiful to eat. The flavors are just as exquisite, however, made possible by fresh produce sourced from the Makris farm. Each aspect of the degustation menu has something memorable to offer, with highlights including the risotto and the silver cod carpaccio. The sommeliers enhance the experience with excellent wine pairings.
Maiandros Restaurant
- Address: Adrianou 47, Athens, 105 55
- Reservations: Not required, but recommended for rooftop seating
While foodie tourists are often warned against visiting the bustling restaurants near the Acropolis (due to their higher prices and sometimes uninspired menus), the Maiandros Restaurant represents a clear exception. The proximity to the Acropolis still plays a role in this restaurant's appeal, with the rooftop experience offering mesmerizing views. The souvlaki is tender and the moussaka is bursting with flavor. Another way to blend Acropolis views and delicious flavors? Taking a private Acropolis and food tour.
Kiouzin
- Address: Likavittou 16, Athina 106 73
- Reservations: Available but not required
Serving classic Greek dishes — with a twist — Kiozin will take you on a culinary journey like no other. Small and intimate, this charming restaurant has a welcoming feel, elevated by vintage details and traditional Greek recipes.
Many dishes attract attention, but visitors are especially fond of the courgette balls and the goat en papillote. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is comfortable. Treat yourself to a great meal after exploring the nearby Lycabettus Hill.
Athens Photo Spots
You could easily spend your entire Athens trip snapping photos, as something is amazing to see around every corner. That being said, you'll want to be careful about where — and in which situations — you take photos. In some museums or historic sites, these are against the rules. Other photos feel less-than-ideal simply because the crowds ruin the picture.
If you're willing to wander beyond the tourist destinations, however, you may discover some excellent opportunities to snap photos that capture the unique beauty of Athens. Check out these photo-worthy locations:
- Phillopappo Hill: Finding the right place to take Acropolis photos can be tricky. Get too close, and you'll need to battle the crowds — and any photo you take will be teeming with tourists. Try a view from a distance at Phillopappo Hill, which promises stunning scenery. Plenty of walking paths encourage you to make your way up the hill at your own pace, enjoying glimpses of the city every step of the way. If possible, time your visit so you reach the peak at sunset — you won't regret it.
- Anafiotika: The ancient neighborhood of Plaka is often a go-to after a busy morning at the Acropolis, but this area is more expansive than many people realize. Elevate your photo-taking experience in the section known as Anafiotika, where picturesque blue and white structures mimic the beauty of Greece's island of Anafi.
- Exarcheia: Discover edgy vibes in the oft-forgotten neighborhood of Exarcheia, which offers a nice contrast following multiple days of exploring ancient temples. Here, the best sights involve vibrant street art. Students and artists gravitate towards this unique neighborhood, and, when you're not taking pictures of murals or chatting with the locals, you'll likely be scoring amazing deals at this neighborhood's many vintage stores.
- Hadrian's Arch: Free to visit and visually impressive, Hadrian's Arch offers an excellent photo-taking opportunity with minimal jostling from other vacationers. While you'll need to set up the shot carefully to avoid traffic while also getting the entire arch in your picture, you can capture some amazing images — including, depending on your angle, pictures with the Acropolis in the background. This triumphal arch showcases a Roman emperor's love of Athens — a fascination to which many visitors relate to this day.
Day Trips from Athens
You could easily spend multiple weeks in Athens and barely scratch the surface. Eventually, however, you might crave a change of scenery. This is easily achieved, as several spectacular destinations are situated just an hour or two away. Many can be reached by public transit, although a rental car can be helpful for exploring little-known villages, parks, or beaches.
Delphi
- Distance from Athens: 118 miles
If you can only set aside time for a single-day trip, make it Delphi. Home to the famed Temple of Apollo, this archaeological wonder boasts some of Greece's most picturesque sunsets — not to mention, a wealth of learning opportunities.
Delphi's historical significance is undeniable; this was a sacred site, regarded by the ancient Greeks as the center of the world. This powerful history leaves modern visitors in awe. Meander the ancient footpaths and, if you have time, stop in the adorable town for a laid-back meal.
Nafplio
- Distance from Athens: 89 miles
With its proximity to ruins and beaches, Nafplio is a vacationer's dream come true. This cozy port town was modern Greece's original capital, but it still maintains genteel vibes and even its own well-preserved Acropolis. The Fortress of Palamidi is arguably the most impressive sight in town, however, built by Venetians during their occupation during the 1700s. The climb is intense, although you can also reach the fortress by bus or taxi.
Aegina
- Distance from Athens: 34 miles
Your Greek travel experience won't be complete until you've checked out the nation's amazing islands. If you're unable to stay on an island, however, you can get a taste of this experience during a mind-blowing day trip to Aegina. This island is accessible by ferry, but you'll want to plan carefully to ensure a scenic, open-deck experience.
A common weekend escape among Athenian residents, Aegina can get busy during the weekend but still promises an authentic slice of the Greek experience — compete with plenty of bustling shops and cafes, where you will hear Greek spoken among the locals. Be sure to stock up on pistachios, which are an island staple. Keep an eye out for the island's many monuments and check out the remarkable turquoise water at the beach.
Corinth
- Distance from Athens: 53 miles
Home to the famed Corinth Canal, Corinth has a lot to offer: great views, fascinating history, and a sense of awe. The Acrocorinth is spectacular, towering high about the peninsula and providing a glimpse of Byzantine and Venetian architecture. Despite its magnificence, however, this spot is not well-known among tourists, so you can enjoy an escape from the hustle and bustle of Athens. This hike can be rigorous, however, and quality shoes are definitely recommended.
Temple of Poseidon
- Distance from Athens: 38 miles
As one of the easier day trips from Athens, the Temple of Poseidon delivers amazing sunset views but is worth exploring any time of day. This is best visited under the guidance of an expert, with bus tours making it far easier to enjoy the coastal views while also learning a great deal about the area's fascinating history.
Constructed in honor of the god Poseidon (thought then to be the master of the sea), this temple aimed to prevent ancient residents from experiencing the god's wrath. The marble pillars are absolutely stunning and will leave you wanting to take picture after picture.
Visiting Athens on a Budget
A trip to Athens does not need to feel financially out of reach. Your budget will largely depend on airfare and accommodations, but it's possible to score deals on both. Beyond this, you can keep spending to a minimum by enjoying stunning views free of charge — and by planning your dining and museum experiences strategically.
1. Swap Sit-Down Restaurants for Street Food
There are many ways to experience the best of Greek cuisine, and these do not necessarily involve white linen tablecloths or fancy cocktails. Instead, keep an eye out for street food as you explore the best of Athens.
When in doubt, look for souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), loukoumades (fried dough balls), or, of course, gyros. A few euros will deliver a tasty meal, allowing you to sample your way through Athens on a budget.
2. Check Out the Local Markets
If you can substitute at least one meal per day for fresh produce from the market, you'll score significant savings — and you can experience the unique joy of strolling through vibrant markets. If you can't make it to one of the major markets, you're always welcome to visit one of the city's myriad of periptero markets. There, you'll find anything you could possibly need — including a quick snack when you're on the go.
3. Stick With Free Museums — Or Free Museum Days
You may be surprised to discover that Athens museums are quite affordable or, in some situations, completely free to visit. Some museums with steep admission prices offer the occasional free day to ensure that they remain accessible to all types of visitors. Keep in mind that museums are (for understandable reasons) far more crowded on these days — but if you visit Athens during the shoulder season, these crowds may still feel manageable.
3. Drink Tap Water
Some vacationers struggle to remember where it's safe or unsafe to drink tap water — and for peace of mind, many stick exclusively with bottled water. This can add up, however, and it's not necessary in Athens, where the quality of the local tap water is excellent. Bottled water prices are especially exorbitant in the top tourist areas, so, for extra savings, bring a water bottle and fill it at your hotel.
4. Stay on the Outskirts
While a car-free trip can lead to significant savings, the accommodations near the Acropolis tend to be pricey. An alternate strategy (which is ideal if you want to take lots of day trips) is to stay in lesser-known suburbs such as Glyfada or Vouliameni.
Out-of-the-way areas are more likely to offer budget accommodations without forcing you to compromise on space or amenities — and, away from the most touristy areas, the food is more likely to be both authentic and affordable. While you may need to spend more time navigating transit, you will also find many hidden gems in your neighborhood, including less-crowded attractions that most tourists miss.
5. Make the Most of AAA
Equipped with your AAA membership, you can score savings on the city's finest offerings, including elevated attractions or accommodations that you might otherwise skip. As you plan your dream Athens getaway, take advantage of your AAA membership so you can score the best deals on vehicles, tickets, and hotels.
Plan Your Athens Vacation With AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Athens trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.