Athens is not just a city for Athenians – it’s also a destination for tourists around the world! If you’re planning on visiting Athens and want to see some of its best attractions, restaurants, and hotels, then this Athens travel guide is perfect for you.
Map of Athens
Athens is a city in Greece, located on the eastern coast of the island of Attica. With a population of over 1 million people, Athens is one of the largest cities in Europe. The city’s history goes back more than 3,000 years, and it has been a major cultural and political center for much of that time. Today, Athens is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and an exciting future.
What to do in Athens?
There are so many things to do in Athens that it can be hard to know where to start! Here are some suggestions:
-Visit the Acropolis: The Acropolis is one of the most iconic sights in all of Greece, and it’s well worth making the trek up to see it. The site is home to some incredibly well-preserved ancient ruins, including the Parthenon, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
-Explore the lively pedestrian streets of Plaka: Plaka is a fun district full of lively cafes and bars, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon if you’re looking for something different from the traditional tourist destinations.
Athens Travel Guide for Tourist: Maps and Things to do Photo Gallery
How to get there?
Athens is located in the southeastern area of Greece, about 160 kilometers from the city of Thessaloniki. The quickest and easiest way to get to Athens is by plane. Athens International Airport (ATH), situated about 14 kilometers northwest of the city center, has flights to many European cities as well as a few domestic destinations in Greece.
The Athenian railway network is extensive and provides connections with the rest of Greece as well as with other countries in Europe. There are also several buses that go to Athens from all over Greece. Some hotels and hostels provide free shuttle service between their facilities and the airport or railway station.
If you’re coming by car, be sure to have a driver’s license and registration papers ready, since driving in Athens can be quite difficult. The best way to get around Athens is either by taxi or on foot, since public transportation there is not very extensive.
Where to Stay?
If you’re visiting Athens during the summer, you’ll want to stay somewhere in the city centre. The areas near Syntagma and Omonia are both very popular and cramped, while Plaka and Monastiraki are quieter but not as convenient. Outside of the city centre, there are a number of excellent options, including Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Kalamata and Kifissia.
For those looking for a bit more space, there are a number of suburbs that offer good value for money. Ardettos is a great place to stay if you’re travelling with friends; its proximity to the city centre and wide range of activities make it an ideal destination for everyone. For those who prefer peace and quiet, Pefkakia is the perfect spot – it’s close to the sea but still accessible by bus or train.
Finally, everyone wants to know about tourist attractions! Athenian landmarks such as the Parthenon, Acropolis and Plaka are definitely worth a visit – but don’t forget about all of the other things to see and do in Athens! There’s plenty to explore outside of the traditional tourist spots – make sure to take advantage of the amazing climate and visit the southern coast! Athens has a great nightlife, too – you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable Greek experience once you’re there!
Things to Do
If you’re visiting Athens, there are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you a cent. The city is known for its many ancient ruins and historical attractions, but if you’re looking to explore more than just the main sights, you’ll be happy to know there are also plenty of fun things to do in Athens without spending a penny. Here are some ideas:
1. Take a walk around Plaka – This historic district is home to some of the city’s most well-known landmarks, such as the Kerameikos Market and the Asklepion Temple. It’s also a great place to people watch and admire the beautiful architecture.
2. Explore the archaeological sites around Athens – You don’t need a tour to see some of the city’s most famous archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis and Delphi. If you have time, make a day of it by exploring each site in depth. You’ll be able to see some amazing artifacts and learn quite a bit about Greek history along the way.
3. Shop at one of Athens’ many markets – There are plenty of markets throughout Athens that sell everything from clothing to souvenirs. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, head to the flea markets during the afternoon. I found some great finds there, such as an entire vintage wardrobe, antique jewelry, and even a fabulous red handbag.
4. Visit Ancient Greece’s most famous sites – Athens boasts quite a few important ancient sites including the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Agora. If you have time for only one of them, head to the Acropolis where you can climb up to all of its ancient temples or visit The Parthenon which was built in 447 BC by order of Pericles. You can also see some amazing architecture at The Temple of Olympian Zeus with its 32 feet tall columns and beautiful sculptures on display.
How Much Does It Cost?
The best way to budget your Athens travel is by figuring out how much you want to spend per day.
There are many ways to get around Athens and it all depends on what you’re interested in doing.
The following is a list of the most popular tourist attractions and how much they cost:
Gate of Thebes- €6
Acropolis Museum- €10
Plaka Market- €5 per hour
Museum of Cycladic Art- €8 for adults, €4 for students and seniors, free for under 12s
There are also many other things to do in Athens, such as going for a walk in Plaka, visiting the Zappeion Olympic Stadium, or taking a boat tour across the Saronic Gulf.
All of these activities will vary in price from €5 to €30 per person.
