Athens Blog
Over 3,000 years of history on a single rock: Athens is one of the most fascinating cities in the world and far more than just a stopover on the way to the next island. Between Acropolis sunsets, lively alleyways in the old town and relaxed cafés in the trendiest neighbourhoods, a metropolis awaits that wins over even the most confirmed city-sceptic. On the Athens Blog by Greece Moments you'll find everything you need to know for your trip to the Greek capital.
Athens City Break: Our Itinerary & Best Tips for 2 Days
After several visits to Athens we've put together our personal must-sees for a city break.
Read article →- LocationAttica (Central Greece)
- FunctionCapital of Greece
- Populationapprox. 3.7 million (greater area)
- Area412 km² (city proper)
- Best time to visitYear-round
- AirportAthens Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Athens from A to Z
The most important topics for your trip to Athens at a glance.
Save hours of research
Our Google Maps guide helps you navigate Athens like a local — all top spots, hidden gems and insider tips right on your smartphone.
- 🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden coves
- 🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
- 🏛️ Highlights & ancient sites
- 🗺️ Insider tips & local spots
- 🚘 Car rental & parking info
- ♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Beautiful places in Athens
All destinations, villages and day trips at a glance
Places on Athens you simply must visit
- Acropolis with the Parthenon, Erechtheion and Propylaea
- Acropolis Museum with the original sculptures
- Ancient Agora: the civic heart of the ancient city
- Plaka neighbourhood with winding lanes and tavernas
- Monastiraki Square and the bustling pedestrian zone
- Lycabettus Hill with the best panoramic view over Athens
- National Garden: the green lung of Athens
- Day trip to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Plan and book your Athens trip
We have put together useful booking links* to help you plan your Athens trip. No extra cost for you — but every click supports Greece Moments.
Our hotel recommendations
Plaka Arch Suites
Design hotel with rooftop terrace and Acropolis panorama (Booking.com*)
View hotel →
Acropolis Vision
Central location right on the promenade, ideal for exploring on foot (Booking.com*)
View hotel →
Tom & Ella
We are travel journalists, authors and parents with a deep love for Greece. On Greece Moments we share personal experiences and honest tips from countless trips through the Greek islands.
Frequently asked questions about Athens
Here are the questions we get asked most often — answered briefly and clearly.
Athens can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for a city trip. We especially recommend April to June as well as September to November. July and August are often very hot, so you should visit the Acropolis and other major sights either early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Ideally, you should stay at least two nights, but three to four days are better. That gives you enough time for the Acropolis, the Agora, a few neighborhoods, and a museum without rushing through the city. If you also want to take trips to the sea or the surrounding area, five to six days are a better option.
For the city itself, you do not need a rental car. The center is compact, and you can reach many places on foot or by metro and bus. A car is more useful for trips outside the city, as traffic and parking in Athens can be stressful.
You should currently expect to pay 30 euros per person for a standard Acropolis ticket. Certain groups can get reduced admission or free entry. Before your visit, it is worth checking the current opening hours and available time slots.
We especially recommend Plaka, Koukaki, Thiseio, Monastiraki, and Psiri. Plaka is charming and classic, Koukaki feels a bit more relaxed, while Monastiraki and Psiri are lively and urban. If you want to stay central and explore a lot on foot, these areas are a great choice.
Yes, Athens is generally a safe destination. In the city center, you can usually get around without problems, even in the evening in the main tourist areas. As in any major city, you should still watch out for pickpockets on the metro and in crowded places.