Athens rewards a visitor who plans around heat, hills and opening hours. The ancient sites are compact and mostly walkable from the centre, the metro is simple, and the best neighbourhoods each have a distinct character. This guide covers where to stay, how to see the Acropolis and the other main sites without wasting time, how to move around and what to know before you go. We have left out prices and ticket costs because they change, so check the official sites for current details.
Choosing a neighbourhood
For a first visit, base yourself within walking distance of the Acropolis. The choice comes down to atmosphere.
- Plaka and Anafiotika: The old quarter under the Acropolis, with narrow lanes and whitewashed houses. Very convenient and very busy in the day, so expect some tourist-oriented restaurants.
- Monastiraki: A lively mix of flea market, cafes and rooftop bars, close to a major metro interchange. Good for transport, less peaceful at night.
- Koukaki: South of the Acropolis, residential and calmer, with good local eating and the Acropolis Museum nearby.
- Syntagma and Kolonaki: Central, smarter and shop-lined, handy for the airport train and the main square. Kolonaki is quieter in the evening.
- Psyrri: Nightlife and small tavernas, energetic at weekends.
Our guides to Rome and Istanbul cover similar choices for other cities built around ancient sites.
Seeing the Acropolis well
The Acropolis, with the Parthenon at its summit, is the reason most people come. A few habits make the visit better. Go early, because the site is exposed, the marble is hot and slippery in summer, and crowds build through the day. Wear shoes with real grip, bring water and a hat, and expect some uneven steps. Opening hours and ticketing rules, including timed entry in busy periods, are set by Greece’s culture ministry and change by season, so check the official ticketing site before you go and book ahead where possible.
At the foot of the hill, the Acropolis Museum holds sculptures from the site and is a good choice for the hottest part of the day because it is air-conditioned. The Ancient Agora, the Temple of Hephaestus, Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora are all within a short walk, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a little further. Ask whether any ticket you buy covers several sites and how long it remains valid, since these rules can change.
Getting around
Most of the central sights are best covered on foot, but the metro helps when it is hot. Lines connect the centre with the port of Piraeus, and a separate line runs to the airport, with direct services to Syntagma and Monastiraki. Buses and trams are also available, and ticket rules, including validation, are set by the city transport operator, so use its official site for current fares and passes. Taxis are common, and ride apps operate, but agree the arrangement or check the meter at the start.
For day trips or island hops, ferries leave from Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio, depending on the destination. Check which port your ferry uses before you book transport to it.
Heat, timing and the seasons
Summer in Athens can be very hot, and heat waves are not unusual. Plan outdoor sights for the early morning or late afternoon and keep the middle of the day for museums, lunch and rest. Spring and autumn are more comfortable for walking, and winter is mild but wetter and has shorter days. Our guide to sun, heat and hydration applies just as well in a city.
Eating and money
Greece uses the euro. Tavernas serve grilled meats, fish, salads, dips and vegetable dishes, and meals are often shared. Restaurants right beside the main sights can be pricier and less distinctive than those a few streets away, so walk a little before you choose. Check the bill for cover charges and service lines, and see our guide to money abroad for card and cash habits. Greece is in the Schengen area, so the Schengen 90/180 day rule applies to visitors who are not citizens of the area.
A sample three days
Day one: Acropolis early, then the Acropolis Museum and lunch in Koukaki or Plaka. Day two: Ancient Agora, Monastiraki and the flea market, then sunset from a hill such as Filopappou or Lycabettus. Day three: Syntagma, the National Garden and a museum, or a day trip. Our post on planning a three-day city itinerary explains how to group sights by area.
Small practical points
- Pickpockets work the metro, crowded sights and the area around Monastiraki, so keep valuables in a front pocket or secure bag.
- Carry a small amount of cash for kiosks and small shops.
- Tap water is generally drinkable in Athens, but many visitors prefer bottled.
- Check that museum days and strike dates will not clash with your plans, since occasional transport strikes occur.