The Essentials: Athens Edition
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Step into Athens, a city where antiquity brushes against the pulse of modern life. Wander through the shadows of the mighty Acropolis, standing proud as the symbol of classical spirit and architectural grandeur. Let the vibrant streets of Plaka whisper tales of ancient philosophers, where every cobblestone has a story to tell. Indulge in the flavors of Greece at a traditional taverna, savoring dishes that are a testament to the city's rich gastronomic heritage. Explore the National Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of history showcasing Greece’s cultural depth. Athens is not just a city, but a journey through time, promising experiences as timeless as the Parthenon itself. Come and lose yourself in the cradle of Western civilisation.
KEY FACTS
Location: Athens is situated in the heart of the Attica region in Greece.
Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Language: Greek is the official language, with English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Euro (€) is the currency used throughout Athens and the wider region.
Electricity: Greece uses 230V, 50Hz electricity with Type C and F plugs. Bring adaptors.
GETTING THERE, AROUND & VISA REQUIREMENTS
Air Travel: Athens is primarily served by Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), a major hub with extensive global connections. It links Athens to cities across Europe, Asia, and North America, facilitating easy access for international tourists.
Local Transport: Upon arrival, tourists can choose from multiple public transportation options including the Athens Metro, buses, and trams. The Metro in particular is a convenient way to reach key attractions like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square.
Smart Transit: A five-day unlimited transport ticket covers buses, trams, metro, and suburban trains, streamlining all your city travel economically.
Ride Share Apps: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Beat are available in Athens, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis with the ease of app-based booking.
Reliable Ride Apps: Use Beat (the local preference over Uber), which offers reliable and reasonably priced taxi services.
Walking or Cycling Routes: Athens boasts several scenic walking and cycling routes. The pedestrianised area around the Acropolis offers stunning views and historic sites. The National Garden and Lycabettus Hill provide scenic paths through lush greenery.
Unique Exploration: Unique exploration options include boat tours along the coast, providing a different perspective of the city. Segway tours are also popular, offering a fun way to navigate Athens' historical sites.
Visa Requirements: Australian tourists can enter Greece visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism purposes. Always check the latest entry conditions at the Australian Government's Smart Traveller website to ensure compliance with current visa policies and travel advisories.
SIGHTSEEING & ATTRACTIONS
Urban Retreats: National Garden of Athens – A lush sanctuary in the heart of the city, this 15.5-hectare park is an idyllic escape from Athens’ bustling streets. Offering shaded walkways, tranquil ponds, and a small zoo, it's a perfect spot for leisure and relaxation.
Parks and Outdoor Activities:
Mount Lycabettus – For those seeking a blend of adventure and panoramic views, a hike or cable car ride to the top of Mount Lycabettus offers a breathtaking vista of Athens. It's an ideal spot for sunset views and leisurely outdoor picnics.
Philopappos Hill: Adjacent to the Acropolis, this park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the Parthenon. It’s dotted with historical monuments and provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Beach and Nature: Vouliagmeni Beach: Located along the Athenian Riviera, Vouliagmeni Beach offers crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Nearby, Lake Vouliagmeni provides a unique thermal spa experience in a natural setting, surrounded by lush greenery and impressive rock formations.
Bustling Squares: Syntagma Square – The central square of Athens is not only a hub for political and social activity but also a key player in the city's vibrant public life. Framed by historical buildings and buzzing with cafes and shops, it serves as a lively gathering place for both locals and tourists.
PHOTOGRAPHY
For the best photos, visit the Acropolis at sunrise or sunset to capture the golden light on the Parthenon.
For iconic Athens shots, head to Anafiotika, a picturesque neighbourhood on the slopes of the Acropolis, offering narrow lanes and white-washed houses reminiscent of the Cycladic islands.
The Areopagus Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
Anafiotika Neighborhood: Nestled beneath the Acropolis, Anafiotika's narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses offer a charming, Cycladic island feel in the heart of Athens. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for soft, natural light that enhances the vibrant colours and textures of this picturesque area.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: This modern architectural marvel provides striking photo opportunities. Capture the building’s sleek lines and reflective pools at sunset for dramatic effects. The rooftop park offers panoramic views of Athens and the sea, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Philopappos Hill: Beyond its hiking trails, Philopappos Hill offers unique angles of the Acropolis. The hill’s summit, particularly at sunset, provides stunning views of the Parthenon framed by lush greenery, creating a juxtaposition of nature and ancient architecture.
Monastiraki Flea Market: For vibrant street photography, visit Monastiraki Flea Market. Capture the bustling atmosphere, colourful stalls, and eclectic mix of goods. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light without the midday crowds.
Plaka’s Hidden Staircases: Plaka is full of charming staircases adorned with flowers and greenery. Look for less crowded spots off the main tourist paths for intimate, picturesque shots. The stairs leading up to the Acropolis can also provide unique angles.
Mount Lycabettus: For the ultimate panoramic view of Athens, climb or take the funicular to the top of Mount Lycabettus. Shoot from the viewing platform during the golden hour for breathtaking cityscapes with the Acropolis in the distance.
Temple of Hephaestus: Located in the Ancient Agora, this well-preserved temple offers excellent photo opportunities. Capture its grandeur with the Acropolis in the background, especially during late afternoon when the light is softer.
National Library of Greece: For architectural photography, the National Library’s neoclassical facade and grand interior provide elegant backdrops. Early morning light enhances the symmetry and details of the building.
Technopolis in Gazi: This former gasworks turned cultural centre is great for industrial and urban photography. Visit during events or festivals for dynamic shots of the modern structures against the old industrial backdrop.
Benaki Museum Terrace: The terrace of the Benaki Museum offers stunning views of the cityscape, particularly at sunset. It’s a less crowded spot where you can capture the blend of Athens' historical and modern elements.
CULTURAL LANDMARKS
Iconic Statues & Monuments:
The Acropolis: Perched above Athens, this ancient citadel offers breathtaking views of Athens and includes several buildings of great architectural and historic significance, most notably the Parthenon. It symbolises the glory of ancient Greece and remains a masterpiece of classical architecture and a pivotal symbol of Western civilisation.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus: This monumental temple, dedicated to Zeus, is one of the largest in Greece. Construction began in the 6th century BC and was completed by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.
Statue of Athena Promachos – This once towering bronze statue of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, symbolised protection over the city. Though the original no longer stands, its historical significance in representing Athenian strength and culture remains deeply celebrated at the Acropolis Museum.
Historic Sites:
Ancient Agora of Athens – Once the heart of public life in ancient Athens, this historic site offers a vivid glimpse into the city’s daily activities centuries ago. Visitors can explore well-preserved ruins and reconstructions, including the Hephaisteion, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples.
Theatre of Dionysus: Located on the slopes of the Acropolis, this ancient theatre is considered the birthplace of Greek drama, hosting plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.
Architectural Icons
The Panathenaic Stadium: Also known as Kallimarmaro, this all-marble stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It is a marvel of ancient architecture and offers a glimpse into the athletic history of Greece.
The National Library of Greece: Housed in an impressive neoclassical building designed by Theophil Hansen, the library is a treasure trove of Greek literature and history.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center – A modern architectural marvel, this center houses the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. Its innovative design by Renzo Piano includes a vast park and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and sea.
Cultural Experiences
Athens Epidaurus Festival: An annual celebration of theatre, music, and dance held in historic venues, including the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. It’s a highlight of the cultural calendar.
Greek Folk Dances Theatre "Dora Stratou": Experience traditional Greek dances performed by a dedicated troupe in a picturesque outdoor theatre.
Museums & Galleries
The Acropolis Museum: Showcases artifacts from the Acropolis, providing insight into ancient Greek civilisation. Its modern design and proximity to the Acropolis make it a must-visit.
National Archaeological Museum: The largest museum in Greece, it houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek art, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon.
Benaki Museum: Showcasing Greek culture across its historical span, the Benaki Museum features an extensive collection ranging from Greek antiquities to Byzantine art and modern pieces. Its eclectic collection highlights the continuity and richness of Greek history..
Performing Arts: Odeon of Herodes Atticus – Located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis, this ancient theatre hosts a variety of performances, from classical concerts to ballets and operas during the Athens Festival. The venue itself, a testament to Roman architectural ingenuity, offers a magical setting under the stars.
ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES
Local Traditions: Participate in the traditional Greek Dance Lessons at the Dora Stratou Dance Theatre. Visitors can join in and learn the steps of ancient Greek dances, immersing themselves in local culture.
Music, Theatre and Performing Arts:
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, located on the slopes of the Acropolis, hosts world-class performances during the Athens Epidaurus Festival.
The Megaron Athens Concert Hall offers a wide range of performances, from classical music to contemporary theatre.
For live music, head to Half Note Jazz Club or Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
National Theatre of Greece – Located in the heart of Athens, this historic venue is renowned for its superb productions of classical and contemporary plays. With performances that showcase the richness of Greek and world drama, it is a cultural cornerstone for theatrical arts in Athens.
Nightlife: Experience vibrant nightlife in Psirri, known for its eclectic bars and live music venues. Gazi is another hotspot with trendy clubs and rooftop bars offering views of the Acropolis.
Local Tours:
Join a Culinary Walking Tour to taste authentic Greek dishes and explore local markets.
Athens Walking Tours offers historical tours, including a popular Acropolis Tour with expert guides.
Acropolis Guided Tour – Explore the storied grounds of the Acropolis with knowledgeable guides who bring the history of ancient Athens to life. Specialised tours, such as night walks and thematic journeys like culinary tours through historic districts, are also available.
Local Guides: Highly recommended guides include Athens Insiders and Alternative Athens, known for their knowledgeable and engaging tours.
Unique Local Experiences:
Explore the Athens Central Market for a sensory overload of sights and smells.
The Museum of Cycladic Art offers unique insights into ancient Greek and Cycladic culture.
Cooking Classes in Plaka – Dive into the heart of Greek cuisine with a cooking class in the picturesque neighbourhood of Plaka. Learn to prepare traditional dishes such as moussaka and tzatziki from local chefs, immersing yourself in the culinary traditions of Greece.
Family-Friendly Activities: Visit the Attica Zoological Park or enjoy interactive exhibits at the Hellenic Children's Museum. The National Garden provides a peaceful retreat with a small zoo and playgrounds.
Festivals and Events: Don't miss the Athens Epidaurus Festival, showcasing theatre, dance, and music. The Athens International Film Festival is also a cultural highlight.
Eco-Friendly Options: Explore Philopappos Hill and Mount Lycabettus for nature walks with stunning views. Participate in a bike tour with an eco-friendly focus through the city.
Adventure Activities: Try rock climbing at Mount Parnitha or take a sailing trip along the Athenian Riviera. For a unique experience, explore the caves of Penteli.
DESTINATION TOURIST PASSES
Athens City Pass: This pass offers free entry to many of Athens' top attractions, including the Acropolis and its museum, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and discounts at various shops and restaurants. The pass is available for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 days.
Athens Tourist Card: This card provides skip-the-line entry to the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis itself. It also includes a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus tour ticket and discounts at select restaurants and shops. The card is available for 1, 2, or 3 days.
Combined Ticket for Archaeological Sites: This ticket provides access to several of Athens' key archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Kerameikos, and the Aristotle's Lyceum. It is valid for 5 consecutive days from the first use.
Athens Pass: This pass offers skip-the-line access to the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. It also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and access to a guided walking tour. The pass is available for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days.
ACCOMMODATION
Neighbourhoods: Best Areas for a Luxury Experience
Plaka: Nestled beneath the Acropolis, Plaka is known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and neoclassical architecture. It offers a blend of traditional and upscale experiences.
Kolonaki: An upscale neighbourhood filled with chic cafes, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for travellers seeking a sophisticated and trendy atmosphere.
Syntagma: Centrally located, Syntagma is home to luxury hotels and offers easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Luxury Lodgings: Top-Tier Hotels
The Hotel Grande Bretagne offers luxurious accommodations with unmatched views of the historic city centre, right on Syntagma Square. Renowned for its opulent rooms and impeccable service, it's a staple of Athenian hospitality.
King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Athens, this hotel combines grandeur with neoclassical charm. It's famous for its refined elegance and its rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Acropolis.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens: Located on the Athenian Riviera, this luxurious resort offers beachside serenity and opulent facilities, making it a perfect getaway within the city’s reach.
Boutique Hotels:
New Hotel is a centrally located boutique hotel offering a unique stay with artistically inspired rooms and a contemporary design aesthetic. It's perfect for travellers seeking a personalised experience close to major attractions.
Coco-Mat Hotel Athens: This eco-friendly hotel in the stylish Kolonaki district stands out for its commitment to sustainability and comfort, offering rooms furnished with natural materials and a rooftop terrace that provides a splendid cityscape.
Perianth Hotel: Near the vibrant Monastiraki square, this contemporary hotel features modernist interiors inspired by the Athenian 1930s. It’s known for its central location and minimalist yet luxurious design, providing a fresh perspective on the classic Athens stay.
DINING
Epicurean Delights: The culinary scene in Athens is a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern flavours. Varoulko Seaside stands out for its exquisite seafood and stunning views of the Mikrolimano marina. For a taste of classic Greek cuisine, Dionysos Zonar's, with its panoramic view of the Acropolis, offers dishes like moussaka and grilled octopus.
Afternoon Tea: GB Roof Garden at the Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an elegant afternoon tea with a spectacular view of the Acropolis. It's an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with gourmet teas and delicate pastries.
Iconic Street Food: No visit to Athens is complete without trying souvlaki from O Kostas in Syntagma. This local favourite serves up the quintessential Greek street food experience—perfectly grilled meat wrapped in a soft pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions. Loukoumades at Krinos: Head to Krinos in downtown Athens for the best loukoumades, Greek honey-soaked doughnuts.
Local Eats: Taverna tou Psirri: Nestled in the Psirri district, this taverna offers authentic Greek dishes like moussaka and lamb kleftiko, providing a true local dining experience. Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani: Located near Monastiraki, this deli-restaurant serves traditional meze and cured meats, perfect for a genuine taste of Athens.
Iconic Must-Try Dishes: Moussaka: A rich casserole of layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce. Try it at Strofi near the Acropolis. Spanakopita: A savoury spinach and feta pie. Sample it at Ariston Bakery in Syntagma.
Local Beverages & Pubs: For a local tipple, head to Brettos Bar in Plaka, the oldest distillery in Athens, where you can sample homemade ouzos and colourful liqueurs surrounded by walls of brightly lit bottles. Sip on Greek craft beers at Brew Str. in Kolonaki, which features an extensive selection of local microbrews.
Hidden Bars and Speakeasies: The Clumsies: Ranked among the world’s best bars, this hidden gem in central Athens serves innovative cocktails in a stylish, unassuming setting. CV Distiller: A speakeasy-style bar in Kolonaki, known for its extensive whiskey collection and sophisticated ambiance.
Rooftop Bars and Restaurants: A for Athens: This rooftop bar in Monastiraki offers stunning views of the Acropolis, perfect for sunset cocktails. 360 Cocktail Bar: Located in Monastiraki, it provides panoramic views of the city and an excellent selection of drinks.
Food Markets: Central Market (Varvakios Agora): A bustling market where visitors can sample fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies. Ideal for food lovers wanting to experience the vibrant culinary culture of Athens.
SHOPPING
Shopping Markets:
Monastiraki Flea Market: This vibrant market is perfect for finding unique souvenirs, antiques, and vintage items. Open daily, it's especially lively on Sundays. Explore the maze of stalls offering everything from handmade jewellery to leather goods and traditional Greek artifacts.
Varvakios Market: Known as the central market of Athens, Varvakios offers an authentic Greek shopping experience. Visitors can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. It's a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, ideal for food lovers.
Shopping Districts:
Ermou Street: One of Athens' main shopping streets, Ermou offers a mix of international brands and local stores. It's a bustling pedestrian avenue that caters to all budgets and tastes.
Kolonaki: This upscale district is renowned for its luxury boutiques, designer stores, and chic cafes. It’s the go-to place for high-end fashion, jewellery, and accessories, making it a must-visit for luxury shoppers.
Plaka: The historic neighbourhood of Plaka offers charming shops selling traditional Greek crafts, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs. It’s perfect for finding one-of-a-kind items and enjoying a leisurely shopping experience.
Iconic Shops and Boutiques: Melissinos Art –
The Poet Sandal Maker: Famous for its handcrafted leather sandals, this iconic shop has been visited by celebrities and travellers alike. Each pair is custom-fitted, ensuring a unique and comfortable purchase.
Paraphernalia: Located in Psirri, this boutique offers a curated selection of contemporary Greek designs, from fashion to home decor. It’s known for its stylish and eclectic collection.
Mastiha Shop: Specialising in products made from mastiha, a resin from the island of Chios, this shop offers unique culinary and cosmetic items. It’s a great place to find unusual and high-quality Greek products.
PRACTICAL TIPS
Local Customs and Etiquette: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites. Greeks are known for their hospitality, so be polite and friendly. It's customary to greet with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks.
Best Time for the Acropolis: Beat the crowds and the heat by visiting the Acropolis right at opening time, 8 AM, or an hour before closing, which varies by season but is typically near sunset.
Value Luxury Dining: Try Psarras Taverna in Plaka for lunch; its courtyard offers a sublime setting without the dinner-time premiums.
Museum Savings: Don’t miss the National Archaeological Museum on the evenings it's open until 8 PM; fewer tourists and a magical ambiance.
Stay in Style for Less: Koukaki is ideal for luxury Airbnb rentals at a fraction of typical hotel prices, yet still minutes from major sites.
Secluded Beach Day: Drive to Agios Kosmas on the Athenian Riviera, a less touristy beach offering tranquility and beautiful water.
Market Day: Visit Laiki Agora (farmer’s market) on Kallidromiou Street in Exarchia every Saturday for fresh local produce and vibrant street food.
Dining Away from Crowds: Avoid places with "We Speak English" signs and menus in multiple languages, which often signal higher prices and lower quality.
Attend Free Cultural Nights: Many museums offer "nights of arts" where entry is free, typically during full moon nights in the summer.
Insider Walking Tours: Opt for themed local walking tours that focus on topics from Greek mythology to local food, such as those offered by Athens Insider.
Essential Packing: Athens is a city of hills and cobblestones, so pack sturdy walking shoes, a high SPF sunscreen, and a good sun hat to explore comfortably and safely.
Rooftop Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis from rooftop bars like A for Athens or Couleur Locale.
Ancient Agora Timing: Visit the Ancient Agora in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light for photography.
Hydration Stations: Carry a reusable water bottle; Athens has public water fountains with safe drinking water to stay hydrated.
Dining with Locals: Dine at Stamatopoulos Tavern in Plaka for an authentic experience with live Greek music and traditional dishes.
Souvenir Shopping: Head to Monastiraki Flea Market for unique souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts at reasonable prices.
Temple of Poseidon: Take a day trip to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon at sunset, a breathtaking and less crowded site.
Historic Cafés: Visit Café Avissinia in Monastiraki for a nostalgic atmosphere and views of the Acropolis.
Athens Metro Art: Explore the modern art installations at metro stations like Syntagma and Monastiraki for a unique cultural experience.
Night Strolls: Walk around Plaka and Anafiotika in the evening for a magical ambiance and fewer tourists.
Street Art Tours: Discover the vibrant street art scene with a guided tour in neighbourhoods like Psiri and Exarchia.
Greek Pastries: Try traditional Greek pastries like bougatsa and koulouri from local bakeries such as Ariston.
BYOB Restaurants: Some local restaurants allow you to bring your own wine, enhancing your dining experience economically.
Walking Tours: Book a small-group walking tour focusing on specific interests like ancient history, architecture, or gastronomy for a deeper understanding of the city.
Night Tour of the Acropolis Museum: Book a night tour of the Acropolis Museum to experience the ancient artefacts in a serene, beautifully lit setting, offering a unique and less crowded perspective.
Dinner with a View at Lycabettus Hill: Reserve a table at the Orizontes restaurant atop Lycabettus Hill for an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic views of Athens, especially enchanting at sunset.
As you wander through the historic pathways of Athens, each step tells a story of civilisations past and the pulse of modern life. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, Athens never ceases to enchant with its seamless blend of ancient majesty and contemporary vibrancy. We hope our Athens travel guide inspires you to explore Athens and create your own memorable tales.
We'd love to hear your experiences and tips too! Share your stories in the comments, and let's help each other uncover even more hidden gems. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Instagram for more travel insights and updates. Dive into the heart of Greece and let the adventure unfold!
Please note: Some of the links in this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
