Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Athens

nick_arch

I would suggest going early in the morning to the Acropolis then walking down the hill to the Agora/Thission and exploring there, there are trees there so you can have some shade and a little rest on a bench if you need to!

Nick E

Locals do not expect foreigners to know any Greek but attempts to say just a few words will endear you to them.

Christos Tz.

Stay downtown, there are many options in the suburbs or just out of the main city center but I would advise that you stay within the greater Syntagma - Kolonaki - Ilissia area.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Nick E

Admire the extensive ancient ruins and check out a couple of museums, whilst also feeling the fast pulse of a modern city that is so much more than the concrete jungle it is often made out to be.

Anna P

Athens is easy to explore, easy to get around and with a variety of attractions. It is recommended for everyone - family, friends, solo it does not matter.

on_the_go_98765

Athens is absolutely, positively amazing; there is so much to see and experience from ancient ruins to day-to-day activities of the citizens. Going on foot is the very best way to take it all in; walk whenever you can.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

The city of Athens is serviced by Athens International Airport.

Ferry:

There are three ports in the Athens area; Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavira. As the largest port in Greece, the majority of ferries drop anchor at Piraeus.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting from overseas, see if you need a visa using the following website.

When is the best time to visit?

Athens summers are scorching, with average daily highs around 95 F (35 C) and lows of 76 F (25 C) that can hinder outdoor exploration, so visit from March through May or September through November to experience the milder temperatures — think highs of 76 F (24 C) and lows around 61 F (16 C) and almost-guaranteed sunshine.

During the peak summer months of July and August, lots of local business owners flee to coastal towns, which means that a fraction of local businesses are open.

For more information on Athens’ weather and when to go, check out some tips here.

Bus

Athens has a comprehensive bus system that connects the majority of major landmarks; bus line X80 connects top attractions with the Piraeus Port.

Metro

In order to avoid the city’s infamous traffic, get around Athens using the metro. The system consists of three lines that are interlinked with bus, tram, and suburban rail routes.

Tram

Athens’ tram network connects central Athens with the suburbs of Voula and Faliro, both of which are located on the coast.