Athens

August 6, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Athens

Athens is easily accessible by air, land, or sea.

By Air: The Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH) is located about 20 kilometers southeast of the city center. You can take a taxi, bus (X95), or metro (Line 3) from the airport to your destination.
By Land: Athens is connected by highway to other major cities in Greece and Europe. If you’re driving from abroad, be aware that Greek roads can be quite narrow and winding.
By Sea: The Port of Piraeus is located about 12 kilometers south of the city center and receives ferries from the nearby islands and other ports.

Athens offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are some top recommendations:

Luxury:
- Hotel Grande Bretagne (5-star)
- King George Palace (5-star)
- The St. George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel (5-star)
Mid-range:
- Hotel Plaka (3-star)
- Hotel Attalos (3-star)
- Athens Center Square Hotel (4-star)
Budget-friendly:
- Hostel Pella (hostel)
- Central Athens Hostel (hostel)
- Arethusa Hotel (2-star)

Athens is steeped in history and offers numerous iconic landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions.

Ancient Agora of Athens: The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Museum of the Ancient Agora.
Acropolis of Athens: Perched atop a hill, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
National Archaeological Museum: A treasure trove of Greek antiquities, including artifacts from the Mycenaean period to the Roman era.
Monastiraki Flea Market: Every Sunday, this bustling market offers a vast array of vintage goods, souvenirs, and street food.

Athens is more than just ancient ruins; it’s a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do.

Take a Walking Tour: Explore the historic neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psyrri on foot.
Visit the Benaki Museum: A showcase for modern Greek art and culture.
Enjoy Traditional Greek Cuisine: Savor local specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava at traditional tavernas.
Experience Live Music: Attend a concert or festival in one of the city’s many venues.

Athens is famous for its delicious street food, markets, and restaurants.

Must-try foods:
- Gyro (grilled meat sandwich)
- Souvlaki (skewered meat on a stick)
- Moussaka (layered eggplant and ground beef dish)
- Greek salad
Recommended eateries:
- Ta Karamanlidika Tou Psarrou (traditional taverna in Plaka)
- Ouzeri tou Laki (seafood restaurant in Monastiraki)
- To Spitiko (modern Greek cuisine in the heart of Athens)

Athens has a comprehensive public transportation system.

Metro: The most efficient way to get around, with three lines covering most areas.
Bus: An extensive network of buses that connect all neighborhoods and suburbs.
Trolleybus: A convenient option for shorter trips within the city center.
Taxi: Always a good idea when traveling with a group or late at night.

A few essential tips to keep in mind:

Pickpocketing is common, especially in crowded areas, so be mindful of your belongings.
Bargaining is expected when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
Learn a few basic Greek phrases: Greeks appreciate the effort to communicate in their language.
Respect local customs and traditions: Dress modestly when visiting churches or ancient sites.

Some insider advice to make your trip even more enjoyable:

Get off at the right stop on the metro to avoid walking long distances.
Avoid touristy areas if you want a truly local experience.
Try street food, but be aware of the risk of food poisoning from undercooked meat or unsanitary conditions.
Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions, especially during peak season.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Athens like a pro.