Cultural Richness
Staying in Athens means immersing yourself in a city steeped in history, with monuments like the Parthenon just a stone's throw away. Each neighbourhood has its own unique character, reflecting the city's layered past.
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Where to stay in Athens
Athens is one of the world's great historic cities and the experiences it offers are truly humbling. Standing on the Acropolis, exploring the ancient Agora and wandering the Plaka neighbourhood are all extraordinary. Hire a car and the stunning temples of the Peloponnese, the oracle at Delphi and the beautiful Attica coast are all within reach.
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Highlights
Why stay in Athens
Athens serves as an excellent base for exploring both history and contemporary culture. Its diverse neighbourhoods cater to various preferences, from nightlife to family-friendly environments.
Accessibility
Athens' public transportation system is extensive, making it easy to navigate the city and reach major sites. The metro is particularly user-friendly, connecting you to various neighbourhoods and attractions.
Local Vibe
Staying in local neighbourhoods allows visitors to experience authentic Greek life. Enjoy the charm of small cafés and markets while mingling with residents.
Dining Delights
Athens is a culinary haven, with an array of dining options from traditional tavernas to modern eateries. Exploring the food scene is a must, as each district presents its own flavours and specialties.
Neighbourhoods
Best areas to stay in Athens
The main parts of the city people use as a base, and what each one suits.
Plaka
Plaka is ideal for those who want to be at the heart of Athens’ historical sites. With its narrow streets and neoclassical architecture, it's a picturesque area filled with shops, cafés, and easy access to the Acropolis.
Psiri
Psiri attracts a younger crowd with its lively atmosphere, trendy bars, and street art. It's close to Monastiraki Square and provides a great base for nightlife and exploring local culture.
Kolonaki
Kolonaki appeals to those seeking a more upscale experience, featuring high-end boutiques and elegant cafés. Located near the National Garden, it offers a quieter setting while remaining close to central attractions.
Kifisia
Kifisia is a suburban neighbourhood known for its greenery and family-friendly environment. With spacious parks and excellent shopping options, it's a suitable choice for those looking for a more relaxed stay.
First-time visitors
Where to stay in Athens for first-time visitors
For first-time visitors, staying in Plaka or Monastiraki is highly recommended. These areas place you at the centre of major attractions like the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. The charming streets of Plaka offer a host of dining options, while Monastiraki provides a bustling market atmosphere.
Alternatively, Syntagma is great for those who wish to be close to government buildings and enjoy a more modern vibe with easy access to public transport.
Budget travel
Best areas to stay in Athens on a budget
Travellers on a budget will find good value in areas like Psiri and Kifisia. While Psiri offers a lively atmosphere with affordable dining and accommodation options, Kifisia provides a more suburban feel with slightly higher prices for spacious hotels. Expect to sacrifice some proximity to ancient sites in exchange for a quieter, more local experience.
Researching smaller hotels or guesthouses can yield surprising deals in these neighbourhoods.
Couples
Where to stay in Athens for couples
For a romantic getaway, Kolonaki and Plaka stand out as atmospheric choices. Kolonaki's elegant streets and fine dining options create an intimate setting ideal for couples. Meanwhile, Plaka's charming, winding streets and proximity to the Acropolis provide an enchanting backdrop for strolls and leisurely dinners under the stars.
Both neighbourhoods feature atmospheric accommodations that enhance the romantic experience.
Families
Best family-friendly areas to stay in Athens
Families should consider staying in Kifisia or the outskirts of the city, where spacious hotels and parks cater to children. Kifisia, in particular, offers a safe environment with ample green spaces and family-friendly eateries. Staying here allows families to enjoy a quieter atmosphere while still being connected to the city's central attractions via public transport.
Another good option is the area around the National Garden, which provides a lovely space for children to play.
Timing your trip
When to visit Athens
The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. From March to May and September to October, you'll find pleasant weather ideal for exploring outdoor sites. Be aware that summer can be quite hot, and hotel prices tend to soar during peak tourist season.
To save on accommodation costs, consider travelling in the shoulder seasons or booking in advance during busy periods.
Spring
Generally milder weather with manageable crowds and prices that haven't peaked yet.
Summer
The busiest and most expensive period, but with the longest days and most going on.
Autumn
Often a sweet spot — cooler temperatures, softer light, and quieter streets.
Winter
The quietest and cheapest time; some sights may run shorter hours.
Evenings out
Nightlife and food in Athens
Where to head once the sun goes down, whether you're out late or just after a good meal.
Nightlife
Athens has a diverse nightlife scene, with areas like Psiri and Gazi leading the charge. Psiri is filled with an array of bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it a popular choice for night owls. Gazi, known for its trendy atmosphere and art scene, features numerous nightclubs and late-night eateries.
For a more laid-back evening, Kolonaki presents chic cocktail bars, ideal for a quieter night out with friends or a partner.
Food & restaurants
For food lovers, the best areas to explore are Psiri and the market in Monastiraki. Psiri is home to an eclectic mix of traditional tavernas and modern restaurants, providing a delightful culinary experience. Monastiraki's market area features local street food, offering everything from souvlaki to sweet pastries.
For a more upscale dining experience, Kolonaki boasts several fine dining establishments that showcase contemporary Greek cuisine.
Practicalities
Safety and getting around Athens
A few practical things worth knowing before you arrive.
Safety
While Athens is generally safe for tourists, it's wise to be cautious in certain areas, particularly at night. Areas like Omonia can be less desirable after dark, so it's advisable to stay vigilant. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the city and avoid poorly lit streets.
Overall, maintaining awareness and sticking to well-populated areas will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Areas to be cautious about
Visitors may want to avoid areas like Omonia and certain parts of Exarchia, especially after dark. While Omonia has seen improvements, it can still feel less welcoming at night. Exarchia, known for its bohemian vibe, may not suit everyone, and some parts might feel a bit edgy.
Staying informed and choosing neighbourhoods with a reputation for safety will ensure a more enjoyable visit.
Getting around
Getting around Athens is straightforward, thanks to an efficient public transport system that includes buses, trams, and the metro. The metro is particularly convenient for reaching major attractions and is well-connected to the airport. Taxis are also readily available, but be mindful of traffic during peak hours.
For those who prefer a more personal experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the city at your own pace.
On the ground
Local tips for staying in Athens
Small details that make the city easier to settle into once you arrive.
Local tips
To enhance your stay, learn a few basic Greek phrases—locals appreciate the effort. Try to visit attractions early in the day to beat the crowds, especially during peak season. Don't hesitate to venture into less touristy areas for a more authentic experience, where you can discover local cafés and shops.
Lastly, take advantage of the city's many parks and open spaces for a break from the bustling streets.
How many days?
A stay of four to five days in Athens is ideal for a well-rounded experience. This duration allows ample time to explore major historical sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and soak in the culture. For those wishing to take day trips to nearby destinations like Delphi or Sounion, consider extending your visit.
Balancing time between sightseeing and relaxation will ensure a fulfilling trip.
Digital nomads
Digital nomads will find suitable areas in Kifisia and Kolonaki, where co-working spaces and cafés cater to remote workers. Kifisia offers a quieter atmosphere with parks and amenities, providing a comfortable setting for productivity. Kolonaki's chic cafés provide an inspiring environment, along with reliable internet connections.
Both areas also boast good transport links, making it easy to explore Athens during breaks.
Questions
Frequently asked questions about staying in Athens
Quick answers to the questions people ask most before booking.
The best areas to stay in Athens include Plaka, Psiri, and Kolonaki, each offering a unique experience and access to major attractions.
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