Visiting Athens is like stepping into a living history book, where ancient landmarks meet modern vibrancy. Whether you’re wandering through the ruins of the Acropolis or enjoying a coffee in Monastiraki, there’s a unique blend of the old and the new that defines this city. For tourists looking to immerse themselves in all that Athens has to offer, finding the perfect accommodation is key. This guide will help you navigate the city, ensuring you have a memorable and stress-free stay. Let’s dive in!
Athens boasts a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to get around. Here’s a quick guide on how to navigate:
Metro: The Athens Metro is fast and efficient, covering most of the city and major tourist sites. It’s the best way to avoid traffic and get to your destination quickly. The metro runs from early morning until midnight, with extended hours on weekends.
Buses and Trolleys: For places not covered by the metro, buses and trolleys are available. They are an inexpensive way to travel but can be slower due to traffic. Bus stops are marked with signs, and it’s helpful to have a map or use a transit app for schedules and routes.
Trams: If you’re heading to the coastal areas, the tram is your best bet. It’s a scenic way to travel along the Athenian Riviera, passing through neighbourhoods and offering stunning sea views.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively cheap compared to other European cities. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged. You can also use taxi apps like Beat for convenience.
Walking: Athens is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area. Walking allows you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Many historical sites are within walking distance of each other.
Athens is brimming with historical and cultural sites. Here are some must-visit places:
The Acropolis and Parthenon: No visit to Athens is complete without seeing these iconic landmarks. The Acropolis stands majestically over the city and offers a glimpse into ancient Greek civilization. The Acropolis Museum nearby is also worth a visit, showcasing artefacts found on the site.
Plaka: This historic neighbourhood at the foot of the Acropolis is full of charm, with its narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and quaint shops. Wander around and enjoy the picturesque views, street musicians, and local crafts.
Monastiraki: Known for its flea market, this bustling area is perfect for shopping and enjoying local food. The Monastiraki Square is a lively hub with a mix of ancient ruins and modern shops.
National Archaeological Museum: Home to some of the most significant artefacts from Greek antiquity. The museum’s extensive collection includes sculptures, pottery, and jewellery dating back to the Mycenaean period.
Syntagma Square: The heart of modern Athens, where you can see the changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament. The square is surrounded by important buildings and is a central point for transportation.
Greek cuisine is a highlight of any trip to Athens. Here are some dining tips:
Local Taverns: Don’t miss out on dining at a traditional taverna. Try dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. Look for places where locals dine for an authentic experience.
Seafood: Being close to the sea, Athens offers fantastic seafood. Visit the Piraeus area for the freshest catches. Dishes like grilled octopus, calamari, and fresh fish are a must-try.
Street Food: Grab a quick bite from a souvlaki stand or try koulouri (a type of Greek bagel) from a street vendor. Gyros, a popular Greek fast food, is also a tasty and convenient option.
Cafés: Enjoy a coffee at a local café. Greek coffee culture is rich and varied, with options ranging from traditional Greek coffee to frappé. Spend some time people-watching at a café in Kolonaki or Exarcheia.
Learn Basic Greek Phrases: While many Athenians speak English, learning a few basic phrases in Greek can be helpful and appreciated by locals. Simple words like “efcharistó” (thank you) and “kaliméra” (good morning) go a long way.
Stay Hydrated: Athens can get very hot, especially in the summer. Always carry water with you. Public drinking fountains are available at many locations.
Respect the Culture: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs. Greeks are friendly and hospitable, so showing respect to their traditions is important.
Safety: Athens is generally safe, but like any major city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use hotel safes for valuables.
If you have extra time, consider these day trips:
Delphi: Once considered the centre of the world in ancient Greek mythology, Delphi is a significant archaeological site. Visit the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theatre for a glimpse into the past.
Cape Sounion: Home to the Temple of Poseidon, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, especially at sunset. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Hydra: A car-free island known for its picturesque town and beautiful beaches, easily accessible by ferry from Piraeus. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the island’s narrow streets and seaside tavernas.
Meteora: Famous for its monasteries perched on top of rock pillars, Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a bit further afield but worth the trip for its stunning scenery and spiritual significance.
To truly get a feel of Athens, go beyond the tourist spots:
Attend a Local Event: Check out local events and festivals, which often include music, dance, and food. The Athens Epidaurus Festival and the Athens International Film Festival are notable events.
Visit Neighborhoods: Explore different neighborhoods like Exarcheia, known for its bohemian vibe, or Kolonaki, for upscale shopping and dining. Psiri is another vibrant area with a lively nightlife.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Greek dishes, which can be a fun and immersive way to experience the culture. Many classes include a visit to a local market to buy fresh ingredients.
Explore the Athens Riviera: The coastline from Piraeus to Cape Sounion offers beautiful beaches, marinas, and seaside resorts. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sea.
Currency: Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.
Language: Greek (English widely spoken). It’s helpful to have a translation app for less touristy areas.
Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET). Greece observes daylight saving time.
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz (European plug type). Adapters are necessary for non-European devices.
Emergency Numbers: For police, dial 100; for medical emergencies, dial 166.
The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer is also popular but can be quite hot. For more information read our blog post.
Yes, most signs are in both Greek and English, and many people in the service industry speak English. You can easily navigate public transportation and tourist areas without knowing Greek.
Greeks are known for their hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a “Kalimera” (Good morning). When dining, it’s polite to leave a small tip. In churches and monasteries, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
Yes, tap water in Athens is generally safe to drink. Bottled water is also widely available if you prefer.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be exploring on foot. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for the summer months, and a light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings in spring and fall. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
The easiest way to get from Athens International Airport to AIRIO Suites Athens is by taking the metro. The airport is connected to the city center by Metro Line 3 (the Blue Line). You can also take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer through our concierge service.
Athens is a city that captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals. By staying at AIRIO Suites Athens, you position yourself at the heart of the action, with all the comforts of home. Whether you’re here for the ancient ruins, the lively markets, or the mouth-watering cuisine, Athens has something for everyone. So pack your bags, brush up on your Greek phrases, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most fascinating cities!
For more information and to book your stay, visit AIRIO Suites Athens.
