Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Athens
Athens is a lively city where ancient history meets modern energy. Ideal for holidaymakers and backpackers, it offers a mix of vibrant neighbourhoods, bustling markets, and affordable accommodations. With its accessible public transport and welcoming atmosphere, Athens is perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace. The city’s rich culture, delicious food, and energetic vibe provide an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
10 – 35°C
50 – 95°F
Athens’ Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Plaka District | Stroll through Plaka, Athens’ charming old neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, shops, and lively atmosphere filled with cafes and tavernas. |
| Mount Lycabettus | Hike or take a funicular to the top of Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens, especially stunning at sunset, with a small chapel at the summit. |
| Acropolis and Parthenon | Explore the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the Parthenon, a symbol of ancient Greece, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. |
| Acropolis Museum | Discover the Acropolis Museum, an award-winning museum displaying artifacts from the Acropolis, providing insights into ancient Greek civilization and culture. |
| National Archaeological Museum | Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the most significant collections of ancient Greek art and artifacts, offering a deep dive into Greece’s rich history. |
| Ancient Agora | Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, where philosophers like Socrates taught, featuring ruins and a reconstructed temple, providing rich historical context. |
| Temple of Olympian Zeus | Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, an impressive ancient temple dedicated to the king of the gods, showcasing massive Corinthian columns and rich history. |
| Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon | Visit the stunning Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, perched on a cliff with magnificent sea views, especially beautiful at sunset. |
| Syntagma Square | Experience Syntagma Square, the heart of modern Athens, where you can see the Greek Parliament, the changing of the guard, and enjoy nearby cafes and shops. |
| Kerameikos Cemetery | Visit the Kerameikos Cemetery, an ancient burial site known for its historical significance and beautiful sculptures, offering insight into Athenian life and death. |
| Olympic Stadium (Panathenaic Stadium) | Explore the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, rich in history and architecture. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Athens offers a variety of transport options including an extensive metro system, buses, trams, and taxis. Public transport is affordable and reliable. For more convenience, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are popular for easy, quick rides around the city, providing an alternative to traditional taxis.
Seasonality and Weather
Athens experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing them higher. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer more moderate temperatures, around 15-25°C (59-77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is mild, with temperatures averaging 10-15°C (50-59°F), though it can be rainy.
The best time to visit Athens is spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
Where to stay
Plaka: The historic heart of Athens, offering charming streets, easy access to major sites, and a variety of cafes and shops.
Monastiraki: A vibrant, central area with a bustling market, excellent transport links, and great nightlife options.
Syntagma: Ideal for those wanting proximity to government buildings, upscale hotels, and easy access to public transport.
Psiri: Known for its trendy vibe, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, perfect for younger travellers.
WindingTravel 