Destination
Athens, Greece
The Acropolis above a gritty, lively capital with great food and rooftop bars, and the gateway to every Greek island.
Trips to Athens from every city
No live trip to Athens right now. Ask for one and we price it for your city.
When to go
| Month | Season |
|---|---|
| January | fine |
| February | fine |
| March | fine |
| April | best |
| May | best |
| June | best |
| July | avoid |
| August | avoid |
| September | best |
| October | best |
| November | fine |
| December | fine |
- June, July, August, September: Athens Epidaurus Festival performances at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus
- April: Orthodox Easter processions and lamb roasts
July, August: Heatwaves above 40°C; the Acropolis sometimes closes at midday
Where to stay in Athens
- Plaka / Monastiraki: The old quarter under the Acropolis, markets and rooftop views.
- Koukaki: Local cafés a few minutes' walk from the Acropolis Museum.
- Syntagma / Kolonaki: Grand hotels, shopping and the metro to the airport.
- Psyrri: Street art, mezze bars and nightlife.
- Athens Riviera (Glyfada / Vouliagmeni): Beaches and seaside hotels 30 minutes from the centre.
What to do in Athens
- Climb the Acropolis early and visit the Acropolis Museum
- Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
- Mezze and ouzo in Psyrri
- See the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma
- Day trip to Cape Sounion's Temple of Poseidon
- Swim at Vouliagmeni on the Athens Riviera
Good to know
| Airports | Athens Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) |
|---|---|
| Passport for US citizens | yes |
| Price level | mid-range |
| Time zone | Europe/Athens |
| Kind of trip | city, history, culture, food, nightlife |
Questions about Athens
When is the best time to visit Athens?
April, May, June, September and October. July, August: Heatwaves above 40°C; the Acropolis sometimes closes at midday
Do US citizens need a passport for Athens?
Yes. Athens is in Greece; bring a valid passport.
How expensive is Athens on the ground?
Athens is mid-range by US standards: plan about $90 per person per day for food, getting around and tickets.