Answering all of your questions in this blog post about traveling to Athens, Greece whether for one day or a whole week!
My great grandparents immigrated from Greece to Charleston, South Carolina in the 1800s. I have always dreamed of visiting the homeland to get up close with my Greek heritage. This became a reality for me not once, but twice already. Fittingly, my first trip across the ole pond was to Greece where I was able to explore the magical Greek isles! But first, let’s start your journey with where it all started in Greece….Athens!
The city of the gods. And goddesses, most importantly. Athens was named for Athena, the goddess of wisdom and courage. As the heart of ancient Greece, Athens is dotted with historic 5th century BC landmarks like the famous Acropolis and Parthenon.
In addition to the historical sites, Athens is a world class city with numerous Michelin starred restaurants, museums, shopping, and more! Your gateway to the Greek Isles is this important city and it should not be missed.
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How to Get to Athens Greece
The best way to get to Athens, Greece is by flying! You will fly into Athens International Airport (ATH) which is only about a 30 minute drive into downtown Athens (depending on traffic).
It is a major city so you should find ample flight options. There are many direct flights from the United States or you can connect from another European city.
Weather in Athens Greece
The weather in Athens is similar to that of South Carolina, where I live. It is hot during the summer and the winters are mild.
- The coldest month is January with an average high of 55F.
- June, July, and August are the warmest months with average temperatures in the 90s. This is the busiest time to visit Greece – similar to busy summer travel in the US.
- Spring and Fall have comfortable temperatures and lower rates as it is considered the shoulder season.
When is the Best Time to Visit Athens
Many people visit Athens on their way to the Greek Isles in the summertime. Unfortunately, this is not the best time to visit Athens due to the summer heat and crowds of tourists. However, it will be fine for a one day stopover on your way to paradise!
The best time to visit Athens in my opinion is either at the beginning or end of the high season (spring or fall). I visited in September both times when the crowds simmer down a little and the islands are still open for the season!
Best Hotels in Athens Greece
InnAthens Hotel
I stayed at Inn Athens Hotel on my first trip to Greece and loved it! Inn Athens is a quaint, boutique style hotel located within walking distance to the Acropolis, Ermou Street, and all the best restaurants in Athens.
I loved the courtyard where you will enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet with greek yogurt, fruit, eggs, pastries, etc.
The entryway to the hotel is right past a great wine bar, By The Glass! It is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and cheese plate before or after dinner.
We had one night in Athens before visiting the Greek cycladic islands so the goal was to be close to the Acropolis and affordable. The hotel exceeded expectations with the kindest staff, ambience, and fresh breakfast.
Hotel Grande Bretagne
On my second trip to Athens, we chose to stay at Hotel Grande Bretagne situated right next to Syntagma Square in the heart of the city. We had visited their great rooftop bar before and knew we wanted to go back there for the incredible views over the city.
The hotel dates back to the 1870’s and has played a role throughout Athens’ history. With a major renovation in 2002, the hotel emerged as a state of the art, 5 star luxury hotel ready to welcome visitors.
The rooms are decorated pretty ornately with comfortable beds and plenty of space. We loved the windows that opened out into the city.
There is a full service spa and the GB Rooftop Garden Restaurant has the best view in the city in my opinion!
It is a part of the Marriott luxury hotel collection so you can earn/use points if you are a rewards member! Personally, we were able to book our hotel stay here with points via our Capital One Venture card!
What to Do in Athens Greece
There are so many historical sites to see in Athens, Greece. As the capital city, Athens was the center for the powerful empire leaving behind ruins of ancient Greek culture.
Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most important ancient archaeological sites in the world. It is a citadel located at the top of a hill overlooking the city, holding several important structures with the most famous being the Parthenon. Over time, it served as home to the kings, religious buildings, a mythical home to the gods, and now a tourist attraction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This is the main attraction in Greece and likely the number one thing you will plan to see. The history of ancient Greece is so fascinating and seeing this incredible place in real life is so worth it.
Leisurely Tips: It is a steep walk to the entrance at the top where you will purchase tickets and can also buy water. Be sure to bring cash – they did not take cards when I visited.
I also recommend that you go when it opens if you want to have the place to yourself. I went early in the morning and it was still not quite early enough to beat the crowds! There will be tons of selfie sticks and honestly, that kind of took away from the experience of this ancient monument.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon will be seen while visiting the Acropolis, but gets a section of its own to share its importance. Construction of the Parthenon began in 447 BC as a temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess and namesake of Athens. Inside was an outstanding statue of her standing at 40 feet tall made of ivory and gold. More opulent than any temple constructed in Greece, the Parthenon was the physical embodiment of the Athenians beliefs and values.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a Roman theater located on the southwest side of the Acropolis that was completed in 161 AD. It is considered one of the best open air theaters in the world and was used as a venue for music concerts with seating for up to 5,000! The amphitheater was reconstructed in 1950 and is still used for festivals – the only way to enter is with tickets.
Walk Around Plaka Neighborhood
Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and where you will walk to reach the Acropolis. The main pedestrian streets are called Adrianou Street and Kydatheneon Street. There are lots of shops and cafes to enjoy in the old town as you admire the neoclassical architecture.
Stroll Down Ermou Street
Ermou Street is a pedestrian only avenue that runs 1.5km through the heart of Athens. You will find tons of retail including major stores like H&M and Zara. It is a great place to people watch and window shop!
Hadrian’s Arch
Hadrian’s Arch was built (around 131 or 132 AD) to welcome the Roman Emperor Hadrian to the city of Athens and to celebrate his contributions in making Athens one of the greatest cities at the time.
Museums of Athens Greece
I’m not a huge museum girl, however, there are many museums like the Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum, or Museum of Cycladic Art depending on your interests.
Where to Eat in Athens Greece
Does Greece have a Michelin star restaurant? You bet! They have numerous Michelin starred restaurants and even more listed on the Michelin guide. Here is my list of all the best restaurants in Athens, Greece from fine dining to street side gyros!
Nolan
I was FINALLY able to try Nolan on my second trip to Athens. The first time I visited we walked past this lively, trendy restaurant that was already fully committed for the night. I made reservations months in advance to ensure we had a spot this time and it exceeded expectations. The food was delicious and the staff was so kind – a little too kind to bring us ouzo shots!
Nolan describes themselves as comfort food without geographical restrictions. You will have anything from fried chicken to asian street food. We had the zucchini dish with feta, miso and eggplant, soba noodles with salmon, Nolan Cod Burger (crispy fish sandwich), and mackerel.
Spondi
Spondi combines Greek and French ingredients to bring you a 2 Michelin Star worthy culinary experience. You will LOVE the intimate outdoor terrace and the elegant main dining room featuring exposed brick throughout.
Hytra
Dine under the stars overlooking the Acropolis at Hytra. Expect modern cuisine with locally sourced food in this warm atmosphere. Hytra has been awarded one Michelin star, one of many restaurants in Athens with this prestigious distinction.
By the Glass Athens
By the Glass is the best wine bar in Athens! Located at the entryway of the Inn Athens hotel, this spot is always bustling with locals and visitors alike. We loved having wine and cheese boards here to end the night!
GB Rooftop
I visited GB Rooftop on my first trip to Athens in search of a high rooftop bar with views of the Acropolis! This spot is located at the top of Hotel Grande Bretagne and certainly met my standards. So much so that we stayed at the hotel on our next trip to Athens. Plenty of great food and drink options!
Gyros Stands
Pop into any place serving gyros and grab one to eat on the sidewalk! There are tons of hole in the wall places! My favorite part of the gyros in Greece is that they put french fries inside 🙂
Happy Blender
Happy Blender is the perfect spot when you need something healthy or a break from the summer sun. They offer smoothies, acai bowls, salads, buddha bowls, avocado toast, energy balls, and more!
Thea Terrace Rooftop Bar and Restaurant
Thea Terrace Bar and Restaurant is located in the Central Athens Hotel. We stopped here for a late dinner and drinks under the glow of the Acropolis. The views from this rooftop at night are truly magnificent.
What to Pack for Athens Greece
Assuming you are traveling in the high season (summer), I recommend packing loose, flowy clothing to be comfortable in the heat. Sundresses, skirts, and swimsuits are great to pack.
For men, shorts and shirts will suit you well. I would also pack a pair of jeans for the evenings or a nicer dinner.
Read all my tips for the best travel essentials for you next trip!
Athens Q&A
Is It Safe in Athens Greece?
Yes, I felt perfectly safe walking around Athens sightseeing and to dinners. It is a big city so like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings and don’t wander alone at night.
Athens Greece COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
Athens is open for travel for US Citizens! As of May 1, 2022, travelers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test.
Is Athens Walkable?
Yes! Athens is very walkable! The main street that runs through town is called Ermou Street and it connects to Syntagma Square which is known as the heart of Athens. From there, you will find tons of restaurants, retail, and historical sites. The Acropolis is walkable from about anywhere in downtown Athens at 15-20 mins maximum with many places being much closer.
Safe travels to Athens and beyond!
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