40 Distinctive Issues To Do In Athens, Greece


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Whereas the capital metropolis is known for its many Historic Greek sights, there are many issues to do in Athens moreover visiting the historic sights.

I’m not saying it’s best to skip the Acropolis or Parthenon, however I completely get that not everybody enjoys the identical type of sightseeing. Fortunately, Athens has loads to supply to travellers preferring a unique expertise.

Acropolis in Athens

If you happen to’re not into historical ruins or, like me, admire seeing them however don’t wish to spend your whole journey ready in queues and traipsing round archeological websites within the scorching solar with different vacationers, you’ll nonetheless discover heaps to see and do in Athens.

Tick off the primary sights (together with a number of the high Athens sights listed on this information) with a Combo Cross. It offers you skip-the-line entry to seven of Athens’ high archaeological websites, together with the Acropolis, Roman Agora, and Historic Agora.

Whether or not you’re an avid historical past hater or this isn’t your first go to to Athens and also you’ve already ‘finished’ the primary sights, this information will uncover all the choice issues to do in Athens in addition to the standard touristy must-sees. 

We did the hop-on hop-off Metropolis Sightseeing bus to get round. Even utilizing this bus, we managed upwards of 19,000 steps per day in Athens! If you happen to don’t wish to use the native metro, it’s price shopping for a 48-hour ticket to get across the high sights in Athens. If you happen to’re visiting Athens throughout a cruise, use the Seashore-Riviera line to get from the port into town.

Though its closely graffitied streets don’t have the fast attraction of different European cities, Athens will shortly seize your coronary heart. In addition to the traditional websites, Orthodox church buildings and labyrinth of streets polished easy with footsteps through the years, Athens is studded with pockets of inexperienced area and its food and drinks scene rivals that of different European capitals.

Based mostly on my Jet2CityBreaks journey to Athens, right here’s my decide of the extra distinctive issues to do in Athens, past the Acropolis. Be at liberty to DM me on Instagram in case you have questions, but additionally verify the FAQ part on the finish of this Athens information as I’ll have already answered your question there.

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The most effective sights and issues to do in Athens

1. Browse Athens’ flea market

Flea market in Athens Greece

One of many issues I loved most throughout our metropolis break in Athens was rummaging by the varied retailers and stalls on the flea market that threads off Monastiraki Sq.. You’ll find all method of odds and ends right here!

From vintage furnishings to dusty books, sterling silver crockery to jewelry, damaged musical devices to cameras and every thing in between, the Athens flea market is the place to select up a very distinctive relic of your travels.

There are additionally some ‘regular’ retailers promoting the standard vacationer tat like knock-off t-shirts and trainers which you’ll stroll previous whenever you first cross beneath the Flea Market banner. Hold going and also you’ll discover the actual deal!

The Monastiraki flea market actually involves life on Sunday mornings when the tradespeople spill out into the alleyways with makeshift stalls, however we visited on Friday afternoon and it was comparatively quiet.

There are a small variety of cafes the place you may sit outdoors and watch the treasure hunters with a chilly drink.

2. Wander mini Mykonos

Anafiotika, Athens

Anafiotika is an enthralling neighbourhood tucked into the hillside within the shadows of the Acropolis, the place time seemingly got here to a halt centuries in the past. It’s hailed as ‘the Mykonos of Athens’, and whereas I’m unsure I’d go fairly that far, it’s a beautiful, distinctive place to see in Athens.

Anafiotika was established by builders who got here to the mainland from the Cycladic island of Anafi to work on King Otto’s palace within the nineteenth century. I assume they missed the island aesthetic!

If you happen to’re questioning get to Anafiotika, you’re not alone. We had been satisfied we had been going the improper manner after we stumbled on the tight graffitied pathway, however preserve going and also you’ll be rewarded!

If you happen to’re on the lookout for one of the best picture spots in Athens, Anafiotika is price visiting. The small rabbits’ warren of whitewashed buildings making up this conventional Greek neighbourhood is saved pristine regardless of the age of the buildings and worn steps.

The truth is, there was moist paint after we visited, as town ready for the vacationers who’ll undoubtedly come across this hidden gem this summer time.

Keep in mind, it is a residential space so please respect the locals who stay right here for those who select to go to.

3. Take a day journey to the Saronic islands

E-book a full-day cruise to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina for a soothing day journey from Athens. Laze on the boat’s sundeck, spot a once-upon-a-time pirates’ cove and spend free time exploring every Greek island.

When you’re on Aegina, go to the Temple of Aphaia, which is devoted to the goddess Athena and dates again to 480 BC.

The day journey I’ve linked features a buffet lunch and audio information of Hydra plus a switch from Athens metropolis heart to the port.

If you happen to’d like to go to Aegina solely, you would possibly desire to only purchase a ferry ticket so you may discover the island at your individual tempo. Alternatively, you are able to do a ship journey to Agistiri and Aegina that features a cease for swimming at Moni. Purchase your ticket on-line right here. There’s additionally the choice simply to get the ferry to Agistiri and go it alone.

4. Drink at Athens’ finest cocktail bars

Vermouth at The Clumsies cocktail bar in Athens

You didn’t suppose I used to be going to publish an Athens metropolis break information with out together with the lowdown on all one of the best locations to drink, did you? I really feel like I ought to write a complete separate publish on one of the best bars in Athens!

The town really boasts three of the official World’s 50 Finest Bars: The Clumsies, Baba au Rum and Line.

We visited The Clumsies (quantity 19 on the checklist) and had been tremendous impressed. The menu is impressed by three feelings: happiness, pleasure and tenderness; and every of the present cocktails falls inside one in every of these classes.

We each opted for concoctions from the ‘previous favourites’ part of the menu. I’ve tasted quite a lot of cocktails in my time, however these had been positively up there!

I additionally extremely suggest making an attempt their do-it-yourself vermouth. And that’s coming from somebody who doesn’t even like vermouth! The bartenders are good to take a look at, too…

A few of the different bars in Athens that we liked had been Diego’s and Kuko’s.

5. Or drink on the oldest distillery in Athens

Brettos Athens

This counts as historical past, proper? Brettos will be discovered within the picturesque Plaka neighbourhood of Athens and it first opened in 1909. If you have to ask a neighborhood for instructions, be sure you pronounce the bar’s title appropriately – the B in Brettos is spoken as a V.

You’ll know you’re in the proper place as quickly as you peer across the doorway and see the spectacular again bar. My years on the improper facet of a bar endowed me with an actual appreciation for a very good again bar!

Brettos nonetheless makes its personal brandy, 50% ouzo and flavoured liqueurs.

6. Swim in a thermal lake

Lake Vouliagmeni, Athens

One of many extra distinctive vacationer sights in Athens is common with locals too. Lake Vouliagmeni is a thermal ‘spa’ lake simply 20 minutes drive from town centre on the Athenian Riviera. It’s one of the best place to calm down close to Athens.

The lake’s water stays at a relentless temperature between 28 and 35 levels centigrade, so it’s a pleasing place to swim. You’ll be able to even get a free pedicure from the ‘physician fish’ that you simply discover in foot spas, which swim round within the shallows ready to be fed!

You’ll be able to spend the entire day at Lake Vouliagmeni. It’s on the dear facet although. Entry prices 19 euros however is slightly cheaper on weekdays. Youngsters beneath 5 go free, and older children pay 14 euros (17 on weekends).

If you happen to go through the Metropolis Sightseeing bus, you may present your bus ticket for discounted entry.

There’s no requirement to rent one, however a sunbed or cabana for 2 prices 70 euros on a weekday or 90 euros on the weekend. The final entry for swimming is at 6.30pm, however you don’t need to pay an entry payment for those who go to after this supper time and drinks.

I really feel like a night meal right here can be so romantic! I liked the aesthetic of the restaurant.

7. Go to Mykonos

If Greece’s most iconic island is in your bucket checklist, you may ebook a day tour from Athens. The town makes an awesome base for exploring extra of Greece, when you’ve seen its important sights.

The tour I’ve linked above has nice critiques and covers your lodge pick-up, bus, ferry and transport again to your lodge after your day on the island.

8. Absorb some solar on the Athens’ Riviera

Fishing boats on the Athens Riviera

Don’t you simply love a vacation spot that provides one of the best of each worlds? If you happen to want a break from the tempo of town, the coast is inside straightforward attain.

Head to the seaside and go to one in every of Athens’ many seashores and mini marinas. Be taught from my mistake although, and do your analysis into the seaside you wish to go to earlier than you set off. We obtained off the bus at a seaside that was largely closed off for improvement, so we needed to kill time there earlier than we might get the subsequent bus.

Beaches near Athens

In hindsight, we must always have visited Vouliagmeni Seashore, which is close to the lake. It’s thought-about the cleanest seaside in Athens and has probably the most amenities, however can get crowded.

Oh, and pack sea footwear. The seashores close to Athens are pebbly!

Fancy an lively day trip close to Athens? E-book a scuba diving expertise! For a extra relaxed outing, do that all-inclusive catamaran cruise.

9. Loosen up at a seaside membership

For a extra luxurious expertise of the Athenian Riviera, you may splash out on a day at one of many many seaside golf equipment sprinkled alongside the coast. Mavilli Seashore, Banana Athens and Bolivar are a number of the most stylish locations to hang around by the ocean.

Even for those who’re not a seaside lover, you may take pleasure in a seafood lunch at one of many eating places. The scent of scorching meals made my mouth water!

The seaside golf equipment keep open late, so head to the Riviera for those who’re seeking to occasion in Athens.

10. See Hadrian’s Library

Hadrian's Library in Athens

Hadrian’s Library is likely one of the most well-known sights in Athens, and the good information is that you would be able to largely see it totally free! I took the above {photograph} from the road. This is likely one of the issues I liked about Athens; you may see quite a lot of the historical past with out really paying or queuing to see it.

The stays of the biggest of Hadrian’s constructions, that is an Athens must-see.

11. Go to Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon

One of the crucial common locations to go to close to Athens is Thorikos Theater and the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. Thorikos Theatre is the oldest theatre on the earth and it may be mixed with a go to to one of many oldest temples in Greece.

This sundown tour has over 1000 constructive critiques. It consists of round-trip transportation to Thorikos Theatre, Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon on a bus with Wi-Fi, and an archeologist information. 

12. Eat in a Greek taverna

Greek taverna in Athens

For genuine Greek meals in Athens, you have to discover a correct taverna. To take action, comply with the rule of thumb and eat the place the locals are consuming. Psaras Taverna has been going since 1898, whereas Diogenes is located proper in Lysikratous Sq.. Alternatively, strive Saita Taverna, and order the bakalairo (fried codfish).

Attempt to expertise a Koutoukia, which is an underground taverna.

One of many few current katoukias in Athens is named Diporto. It may be present in a basement on Sokratous Road and has all of the quirks that make these informal eateries what they’re: wine barrels lining the partitions, no frills (as one Tripadvisor reviewer places it, ” Shut up and eat regardless of the grumpy waiter takes to the desk”) and comforting Greek truthful like fava beans and anchovies.

13. Go to Delphi

Delve into the middle of historical Greek mythology on a day journey from Athens to Delphi. You’ll get to see the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, the Oracle, historical ruins just like the amphitheater, and the Temple of Apollo.

This Delphi tour is carbon-neutral and can journey by beautiful countryside. Decide-up out of your lodge and lunch is included.

14. Run a lap of the Olympic Stadium

Olympic Stadium in Athens

The Panathenaic Stadium isn’t simply probably the most attention-grabbing historic sights in Athens, it’s an integral a part of the trendy metropolis too. Constructed within the fourth century and revamped for the primary fashionable Olympic Video games in 1896, it’s the one stadium on the earth made solely from marble. It seats 70,000 individuals and is used for the end line within the Athens marathon yearly.

It prices 10 euros to enter the stadium and this consists of an audio tour plus admission to a small exhibit on the trendy Olympics. You’ll be able to see all of the previous Olympic torches, which I believed was fairly cool!

The exhibit is accessed through a tunnel main off from the observe. You’ll be able to virtually hear athletes of the previous thundering down the tunnel to spill onto the sunlit observe.

For an excellent distinctive exercise in Athens, be a part of an Olympic exercise. This could be a lot enjoyable!

15. E-book a desk on the wackiest cafe in Athens

Alice in Wonderland themed decor at Little Kook, Athens

Little Kook is likely one of the most unusual locations to eat in Athens. Sure, it’s a tad costly and really touristy – however you’re a vacationer!

The decor modifications with the seasons, with a extraordinary theme dictating your expertise. Alice in Wonderland was the theme after we visited, and the ready workers had been in full costume, dressed because the Queen of Hearts and different well-known characters.

This could be a enjoyable place to go in Athens with children as a result of they’re sure to be dumbstruck. I’d completely like to see what they do at Christmas.

Little Kook is positioned within the Psiri neighbourhood. Order a dessert and take all of it in.

16. Stargaze on the planetarium

If you happen to occur to go to in the course of the winter months, you is likely to be on the lookout for issues to do in Athens when it rains. Thank your fortunate stars, as a result of Athens has the most effective planetariums on the earth!

With a central dome with a 25 metre diameter, Eugenides Planetarium is an excellent attention-grabbing place to go to in Athens.

You’ll be able to catch a present at Eugenides Planetarium from Monday to Friday from 9.30 till 14.30 and 10.30 till 16.30 on Saturday and Sunday. A standard ticket price 6 euros.

17. Folks-watch on Plaka Stairs

Plaka steps in Athens

Plaka is probably the most enchanting neighbourhood in all of Athens. Principally pedestrianised, it sits on the Acropolis hillside and charms all who stroll its picturesque but rustic streets. If you happen to put your telephone away for a minute, you could possibly simply faux you’re visiting town 100 years in the past.

Generally known as ‘the neighbourhood of the gods’, it’s the oldest space of Athens. Plaka spreads out from two important streets: Kydatheneon and Adrianou.

Alongside the varied retailers, you’ll discover the Kids’s Museum, the Music Museum, the Greek Folks Artwork Museum and the Jewish Museum in Plaka. All of those museums are price a go to for those who’re on the lookout for indoor actions in Athens.

Probably the most well-known a part of Plaka is the colorful Plaka Stairs, the place individuals flock within the evenings for drinks, dialog and stay music.

18. Catch a movie on the out of doors cinema

One in every of Athens’ best-kept secrets and techniques is the open-air cinema in Plaka. In the course of the summer time months, you may be a part of locals at a movie screening beneath the celebs. That is positively probably the most romantic actions in Athens!

The cinema is on a rooftop that boasts views of the Acropolis, offering the backdrop for a severely particular date night time.

Many of the movies are in English with Greek subtitles, so that you don’t want to fret concerning the language barrier.

Notice: the cinema is sadly having work finished so it received’t be open this summer time, however verify again subsequent yr!

19. Store in native boutiques

Clothing boutique in Athens

I might have spent some critical cash in Athens. Significantly in Plaka, there are SO many beautiful retailers promoting clothes that caters to the kind of ladies who spend their lives sipping cocktails at costly motels. The kind of girl I aspire to be, mainly.

Along with unbiased boutiques, you’ll additionally discover designer retailers like Louis Vuitton and Dior within the upmarket Kolonaki district. Sure, Athens can maintain its personal amongst a number of the heavyweight European cities in the case of issues of trend.

20. Go to the Museum of Cycladic Artwork

Artwork lovers will discover loads of attention-grabbing locations to go in Athens. Amongst them, the Museum of Cycladic Artwork. It celebrates the traditional civilisations of the Aegean and Cyprus, with particular emphasis on Cycladic artwork of the third millennium BC.

Unfold over 5 flooring, this museum has the most effective non-public collections of Cycladic artwork on the earth. Folks go to to see the marble collectible figurines and to know extra concerning the origins of Greek tradition.

21. Folks-watch in Monastiraki Sq.

Monastiraki Square in Athens

Monistaraki Sq. is the nucleus of town, and it’s an Athens must-see that will really be exhausting to keep away from.

It provides what I believe is likely one of the most unusual views in Europe as a result of in a single eyeful, you may spot a mishmash of architectural types from eras each lengthy gone and newer.

The Historic Agora, the Hadrian Library, the Gate of Athena Archegetis and the Roman Agora are all accessed through the sq., whereas the Acropolis watches over all of it. Tzistarakis Mosque squats to at least one facet, and has finished since 1759.

Fruit sellers rub elbows with stylish employees streaming out of the metro station whereas vacationers stumble round in a dazed haze. It’s all a part of the wealthy tapestry of Athens.

A few of Athens’ most intriguing streets trickle off the sq. like tributaries from a river, making Monistaraki Sq. an awesome assembly spot for those who’re visiting Athens in a gaggle.

22. See the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch

Hadrian's Arch, Athens

Thought to have been constructed round 470 B.C however by no means really accomplished, the Temple of Zeus is one other of Athens’ most well-known sights. You’ll be able to go to it within the archaeological website of Olympia, the place you’ll additionally discover Hadrian’s Arch.

23. Expertise a neighborhood market

Central Market in Athens

For slightly sniff of native life in Athens, you would possibly like to go to Varvakios Market, which is often known as Central Market.

I’ll be sincere, you would possibly desire to not go inside for those who’re squeamish. The inside is split into fish and meat sections, and it’s not for the fainthearted! I believed I’d be effective, however I needed to duck out earlier than we obtained into the thick of it.

If uncooked meat offers you the ick, simply try the varied stalls outdoors the market. It jogged my memory of the souks of Marrakech with the dried fruits, nuts and spices on show there.

Alternatively, ebook an genuine Greek cooking class, which features a morning go to to the market along with your native information to select up substances.

24. Take within the views at a rooftop bar

View of the Acropolis from a rooftop bar in Athens

For one of the best Instagram images of Athens, try one of many many rooftop bars. I took the above picture from MS Roof Backyard, which I believe has one of the best view.

A few of the different common rooftop bars in Athens with good views are Couleure Locale, Thea Terrace and Attica.

The Foundry Suite Athens has one of many lesser-known rooftop bars the place locals prefer to go.

Critical about getting good pictures? You’ll be able to ebook a neighborhood Instagram information who will take you to all of Athens’ finest Instagram spots. No, actually!

25. Hunt for avenue artwork

Street art in Athens

Like most large cities, Athens has a thriving avenue artwork scene. You’ll find it wherever you look, however the grittier Exarcheia neighbourhood is the place probably the most politically charged items are concentrated.

You can even discover quite a lot of Athens avenue artwork in Psyrri, Anafiotika, Gazi and Metaxourgeio district.

An area information will help you discover probably the most attention-grabbing items and clarify their backstory and that means, so for those who’d prefer to study all about Athens avenue artwork ebook a guided avenue artwork tour right here.

26. Discover Athens’ Nationwide Gardens

Statue in Athens' National Gardens

If Anifiotika is Athens’ Mykonos, the Nationwide Gardens is Athens’ reply to New York’s Central Park. This oasis within the coronary heart of town stretches over 16 hectares. The luxurious greenery supplies slightly respite from the crowds.

The Nationwide Backyard was created for the primary queen of Greece. Initially, it was reserved for the usage of the royal household however now it’s a totally free attraction in Athens and is open to all.

You’ll discover ponds stuffed with sunbathing turtles dotted across the park, in addition to a handful of animal enclosures with goats, rabbits and birds.

The Nationwide Backyard is a must-visit for those who’re visiting Athens with children. There are many shaded spots the place you may take pleasure in a picnic and there’s a playground too.

The lake even has mini seaside areas on its shore and a cute bridge that’s good for romantic walks.

27. Watch the sundown

A few of the finest sundown spots in Athens are Philopapou Hill and Lycabettus Hill. If you happen to don’t fancy a hike, you may ebook a romantic sundown cruise as an alternative.

For a romantic expertise in Athens or for those who’re celebrating one thing particular when you’re there, ebook a desk on the restaurant in St George Lycabettus Resort for golden hour.

Restaurant at St George Lycabettus Hotel in Athens

28. Linger over ouzo and meze

The Spanish have tapas, Brits have nibbles, and the Greek have meze. In Greece, alcohol is one thing to be savoured with meals, not binged on. The truth is, the native anise-flavoured aperitif is rarely served with out one thing to graze on.

A few of the finest locations for ouzo and meze in Athens are Athinaikon, To Ouzeri tou Laki and Hohlidaki.

Meze dishes will be so simple as a bowl of nuts or as substantial as meatballs, seafood or sausages. Discover a mezedopolia (restaurant serving meze) with a pleasant atmosphere and wile away a pleasing night in Athens!

29. Watch the altering of the guards

Changing of the guards in Athens

Among the finest free issues to do in Athens is to rock up on the parliament constructing and watch the altering of the guards. It’s very entertaining!

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honours each unknown soldier who shed blood for the nation. It’s guarded by an infantry unit of the Greek military known as the Evzones. Their uniforms are fairly distinctive.

The altering of the guards happens each hour on the hour, however there’s a extra elaborate ceremony on Sundays at 11am.

30. Go to the Archeological Museum

The Nationwide Archeological Museum is the biggest archaeological museum in Greece and probably the most vital museums on the earth dedicated to historical Greek artwork. 

You must dedicate round 4 hours for this museum. Entry is just 6 euros, however throughout peak season you should purchase a skip-the-line ticket right here.

31. Go to the Benaki Museum

The Athens Benaki Museum of Greek Tradition reveals historical Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and early fashionable paintings. The exhibition is unfold over 4 flooring.

The mansion the museum is housed in is huge, with a restaurant balcony overlooking the Nationwide Backyard the place you may take pleasure in your espresso with a view.

Purchase your entrance ticket right here.

32. Go to the Warfare Museum

Athens War Museum

Athens Warfare Museum is unfold over 4 flooring on what was as soon as an artillery camp. There are previous plane and even a submarine outdoors. Inside, you may see artifacts from Historic to fashionable Greece together with weapons from all durations.

33. Wander round Athens artwork galleries

Art gallery in Athens

There are a variety of fantastic native artwork galleries in Athens. Amongst them, Canvas Greece, Pandora Artwork Gallery, Eleni Marneri Galerie and Technohoros Artwork Gallery.

34. Store in Glyfada

Get off the crushed path in Athens and go to a number of the lesser-known neighbourhoods. Glyfada, a city on the Athens Riviera, is nicknamed ‘the Hellenic Hamptons’, which ought to offer you a sign of the kind of buying you are able to do there.

Begin out on Metaxa, which is the primary buying avenue in Glyfada.

35. See a few of Athens’ church buildings

Church in Athens

One factor there’s no scarcity of in Athens is church buildings. A few of the most spectacular Greek Orthodox and Byzantine church buildings within the metropolis are the church of Panagia Kapnikarea, the Church of Metamorphosis, Agios Eleftherios Church and the church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas, pictured beneath.

the church of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas
Agios Eleftherios Church

36. Go to the oldest home in Athens

Oldest house in Athens

For a glimpse of dwelling life in the course of the Ottoman instances, go to Venizelos Mansion in Plaka.

This home dates again to the early 1500s and the philanthropic Saint Philothei lived right here from 1545 to 1589. It opened as a small museum in 2017. With restored options like a properly within the walled courtyard, verandah and fountain, it’s an attractive place to visi in Athens.

This can be a free attraction in Athens! Voluntary donations are welcomed.

37. Go to the B&E Goulandris Basis Artwork Museum

The B&E Goulandris Basis Artwork Museum boasts a everlasting assortment spanning 4 flooring. You’ll be able to see works by Van Gogh’s, Rodin, Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec, Bonnard, Braque, Léger, Kandinsky, Chagall, Balthus, and Botero.

Purchase an entry ticket right here.

38. Style Greek wine

Positive, you may freestyle in Athens’ many nice bars, however for those who’re eager to pattern a number of the finest wine produced in Greece I like to recommend reserving a wine tasting.

For a extremely particular night time, organize a wine and meze tasting with a view of the Acropolis. You’ll be able to ebook it on-line right here.

Choose beer? Right here’s the tour for you.

39. Store for Greek merchandise

Souvenir shop in Athens Greece

If you happen to’re on the lookout for some distinctive souvenirs to convey dwelling from Athens, you’ll be spoiled for alternative. Loads of the preferred Athens souvenirs are my favorite sort: edible!

In addition to high quality olive oils and cosmetics created from the oils, you may decide up all method of Greek treats. Containers of sticky baklava, jars of (additionally sticky) honey, jams, kalamata olives, Greek espresso, herbs, spices and cheeses… go wild!

Shop for local products in Athens

If you happen to desire handcrafted gadgets, you could find a lot of lovely leather-based sandals, clothes, jewelry and artwork within the small retailers that line the streets of Plaka.

40. See the Hellenic Parliament

Greek Parliament building in Athens

This spectacular Neoclassical constructing was as soon as a Greek royal palace and has been used as each a museum and a hospital, however at this time it homes parliament.

Often requested questions on planning a metropolis break in Athens

The right way to get to Athens from the UK

Jet2 have flights to Athens from numerous UK airports. You’ll be able to fly to Athens from Manchester, xx with Jet2.

Take a look at all Jet2 flights from Manchester for extra inspiration.

The right way to get from Athens airport to Athens metropolis heart 

The drive from Athens airport to town centre takes round 40 minutes relying on site visitors and prices €45 in a yellow taxi. Alternatively, you may take the metro which shall be cheaper.

For much less problem, ebook a non-public switch from Athens airport to your lodge. 

Can I see Athens in a day if I’m visiting on a cruise?

You’ll be able to positively match quite a lot of Athens sights into in the future. Use the hop-on-hop-off bus from the port (purchase tickets right here) to get into town and again in time for sail away.

Alternatively, do that Athens highlights tour from the port.

What are one of the best day journeys from Athens?

Under, you may ebook the top-rated day journeys from Athens.

See all day journeys from Athens on GetYourGuide

The place to remain in Athens

We stayed at Lighthouse Athens, which is conveniently positioned in Downtown Athens. It’s a ten minute stroll to Monistaraki Sq., which is type of the center of town. 

I’d 100% suggest this lodge. You’ll be able to ebook it as a Jet2CityBreaks Athens package deal.

Alternatively, a lodge within the Plaka district would put you proper within the hub of Athens’ sights.

Is Athens costly?

Athens isn’t low-cost, however that’s to be anticipated in most European capitals. 

The typical drinks costs in Athens are 8 euro for a glass of wine and 10 – 12 euros for a cocktail. A important meal prices round 15 euro.

In fact, it’s potential to do an Athens metropolis break on a finances however you’d have to do a good bit of analysis and cautious planning beforehand.

When is one of the best time to go to Athens?

We visited Athens mid-April, which I believe is the proper time for a metropolis break in Athens. The climate was heat and sunny in the course of the daytime which was supreme for sightseeing and it obtained slightly cooler at night time, so I took a light-weight jacket. I wore denims and short-sleeved tops in the course of the day however in all probability might have gotten away with shorts. In fact, locals had been nonetheless wrapped up in April, however us Brits are constructed in another way!

The most effective time of yr to go to Athens is both facet of the busy summer time season. In April, the streets had been busy however not unpleasantly so, and we had the good thing about snug temperatures.

It was Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday throughout our metropolis break in Athens, which was beautiful as a result of we obtained to see the locals in celebration mode. There have been fireworks over the weekend and there was a procession on the Saturday night time which we watched with curiosity. 

One factor to concentrate on is that as a result of Easter is an important spiritual date within the yr in Greece, some bars and eating places shut. We struggled to seek out wherever open after 12 on the Saturday night time earlier than Easter Sunday.

Is Athens protected?

I used to be travelling with my husband and I felt protected in Athens. Like every busy metropolis, it’s best to preserve a detailed eye in your valuables. 

I’m unsure I might have felt tremendous protected strolling round components of town at night time alone, however that’s the case in a lot of the world for feminine travellers sadly.

We didn’t witness any apparent scams in Athens. After darkish, I did discover males loitering in a number of the important squares which might be intimidating for those who had been by yourself.

How lengthy ought to I spend in Athens?

Three days is an efficient period of time for a primary go to to Athens. Though there’s a boatload of issues to do within the metropolis, it’s surprisingly straightforward to pack quite a lot of the well-known locations in Athens right into a three-day journey. I used to be positively stunned at how a lot we managed to see! 

Nevertheless, you could possibly simply spend a few weeks in Athens and do one thing completely different virtually on daily basis. The town has quite a lot of completely different neighbourhoods to discover and every has its personal distinctive really feel.

Sightseeing can get tiring, particularly for those who’re not used to being tremendous lively, so if potential, plan in some downtime throughout your time in Athens. A lodge with a rooftop pool supplies a soothing retreat from the crowds, or a day on the seaside or lake provides you with an opportunity to cost your batteries earlier than you hit the pavements once more. 

Is Athens price visiting?

If you happen to’ve obtained this far, you already know my reply! I’ve obtained to confess that Athens wasn’t high of my checklist of locations to go to earlier than our journey, nevertheless it actually wowed me and we had a superb time. I used to be notably stunned at how upmarket a number of the bars, eating places and buying are there. Sure, Athens is price visiting!

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