Athens

Travel to Athens

Athens is a city steeped in history and culture, with a wealth of attractions that will delight any visitor. The city's most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Acropolis, which dominates the skyline and is home to the iconic Parthenon. But Athens has so much more to offer than just ancient ruins.

One of the city's most charming neighborhoods is the Plaka, a picturesque area filled with narrow streets and traditional tavernas. Here you can wander through the many shops and boutiques, sample local cuisine, and take in the colorful architecture. Another must-visit spot is the National Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from Greece's ancient past.

For a taste of modern Athens, head to the trendy neighborhood of Kolonaki, where you'll find fashionable boutiques and stylish cafes. And don't miss the chance to take in a panoramic view of the city from Mount Lycabettus, which can be reached via a funicular railway.

Athens is also a great base from which to explore the nearby beaches and islands, such as Aegina and Hydra. With so much to see and do, Athens is a destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list.

Getting to Athens

Athens is a major transportation hub and can be reached by air, sea, or land. Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" is the main gateway to the city and is located about 20 kilometers east of the city center. The airport serves numerous domestic and international airlines and offers direct flights to most major cities around the world.

If you prefer to travel by sea, Athens is also well-connected to other Mediterranean ports. The port of Piraeus is the largest and busiest port in Greece and is located about 10 kilometers southwest of the city center. Ferries and high-speed catamarans connect Piraeus to many Greek islands, as well as to Italy, Turkey, and Israel.

Athens can also be reached by land, with international bus and train connections to many European cities. The city's main bus terminal, Kifissos Bus Station, is located about 8 kilometers northwest of the city center, while the main train station, Larissa Station, is located about 5 kilometers east of the city center.

Once you arrive in Athens, getting around the city is easy thanks to its extensive public transportation network. The metro, buses, and trams provide convenient and affordable access to all parts of the city.

Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Athens

Athens is a city that is full of surprises, and there are many alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences that you can enjoy during your visit. One unique option is to stay in a traditional guesthouse in one of the city's historic neighborhoods. These guesthouses are often housed in restored neoclassical buildings and offer a glimpse into the city's past. You can also stay in an apartment or studio in a residential area of Athens, which will give you a more authentic experience of daily life in the city.

For a truly unique experience, consider taking a cooking class with a local chef. You'll learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and get to enjoy the fruits of your labor afterwards. You can also take a guided street art tour, which will take you off the beaten track to explore some of Athens' most colorful and vibrant neighborhoods.

If you're looking for an alternative way to see the city's historic landmarks, consider taking a bike tour. You'll get to explore Athens on two wheels, taking in the sights and sounds of the city at your own pace. Another great option is to take a sunset sailing tour of the Saronic Gulf, where you'll get to see Athens from a different perspective and enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the Aegean Sea.

No matter what your interests, Athens has plenty of alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences to offer. By stepping outside of the traditional tourist circuit, you'll get to experience the city in a whole new way and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Top 10 things to do in Athens

1. Acropolis: A must-visit site in Athens, the Acropolis is home to the famous Parthenon and other ancient ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to explore.
2. National Archaeological Museum: This is one of the largest museums in Greece and is home to a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Greece. Visitors can see everything from statues and pottery to jewelry and weapons.
3. Plaka Neighborhood: This charming neighborhood is full of narrow streets, quaint shops, and traditional tavernas. It's a great place to wander and soak up the local atmosphere.
4. Ancient Agora: This was the heart of ancient Athens and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can see ruins of ancient temples, a marketplace, and a museum.
5. Temple of Olympian Zeus: This impressive temple was one of the largest in ancient Greece and is a must-see attraction in Athens. It's located near the Acropolis and is easily accessible by foot or public transport.
6. Panathenaic Stadium: This stadium was built in ancient times and was used for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium and learn about its history.
7. Mount Lycabettus: For panoramic views of Athens, head up to Mount Lycabettus. Visitors can hike to the top or take a funicular railway for stunning views of the city.
8. National Garden of Athens: This is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Athens, offering a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can wander through the gardens, see exotic plants, and even spot some turtles in the pond.
9. Benaki Museum: This museum is one of the best in Athens and is home to a vast collection of Greek art and artifacts. Visitors can see everything from ancient pottery to modern paintings.
10. Syntagma Square: This is the main square in Athens and is a great place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere. Visitors can see the changing of the guard at the Parliament building and enjoy the fountain and gardens in the square.

The climate of Athens

Athens has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures varying throughout the year.

Summer in Athens, which lasts from June to September, is hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The hottest months are July and August, with temperatures sometimes reaching over 40°C (104°F). The lack of rain during the summer months means that humidity is generally low.

Autumn in Athens, from October to November, is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall begins to increase during this time, although it is still relatively low compared to winter.

Winter in Athens, from December to February, is mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). It can sometimes be cold and windy, but snow is rare in Athens.

Spring in Athens, from March to May, is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is relatively high during this time, but the city is filled with beautiful blossoms and greenery.

Overall, Athens is a great destination to visit throughout the year, although the summer months can be extremely hot, and winter can be wet and windy. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is relatively low.