Practical tips for visiting Athens
Airport transfers
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is about 30 kilometres east of the centre. Metro line 3 (blue) runs to Syntagma and Monastiraki in about 40 minutes; an airport ticket costs €9. The X95 express bus runs 24 hours to Syntagma and is cheaper but can be slow in traffic. Taxis have a flat fare to the centre, about €40 by day and €55 at night.
Getting around
The metro has three lines and is clean and modern; excavations during construction produced finds now displayed in stations such as Syntagma. Trams run to the coast, and buses and trolleybuses cover the rest. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes across modes, and the 5-day tourist pass is useful. Contactless bank cards can be used at metro gates. Taxis are relatively cheap; use the FreeNow or Uber app for transparent fares. The historic centre is walkable, but pavements can be uneven.
Best time to visit
April to early June and September to October are ideal, with temperatures between 20 and 28°C. July and August are very hot, sometimes over 40°C during heatwaves, when the Acropolis may close at midday for safety. Winters are mild, around 13 to 15°C, with occasional rain; it's an excellent time for museums with fewer crowds. Greek Easter is a major celebration with candlelit processions.
Budget
Athens is relatively affordable by Western European standards. Hostel beds cost €20 to €40, mid-range doubles €90 to €160, and luxury hotels €250 and up. A souvlaki pita costs €3 to €5, a freddo espresso €3 to €4, and a taverna meal €15 to €25. The Acropolis ticket costs €30 from April to October and less in winter. Several archaeological sites are free on certain days, such as 6 March, 18 April, 18 May and the last weekend of September, and on the first Sunday of the month from November to March.
Heat safety
In summer, carry water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and avoid hiking the Acropolis at midday. Many locals rest in the afternoon. Air-conditioned museums are a good refuge.
Etiquette
Greeks are warm and hospitable. Dinner is late, often after 21:00. Bread and water may come with a small charge. Tipping around 5 to 10 percent is appreciated. Dress modestly in churches and monasteries.
Safety
Athens is generally safe, but be cautious with pickpockets on metro line 1 between Piraeus and Monastiraki and in crowded areas. Areas around Omonia and parts of Exarchia can feel rough late at night.
Ferries
Ferries to islands leave mainly from Piraeus, with some from Rafina and Lavrio, which are closer to the airport. Book tickets online in summer and arrive at least 30 minutes early; Piraeus is large, and gates can be far apart.
Language
Greek is the official language, written in its own alphabet; signs are usually transliterated. English is widely spoken. Learn "kalimera" (good morning) and "efcharistó" (thank you). Note that "ne" means yes.
Acropolis timing
Book a timed ticket online for the Acropolis, which limits visitor numbers per hour. Arrive at opening time or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. In heatwaves, the site may close in the middle of the day. Use the south entrance near the Acropolis Museum for shorter queues.
Public transport tickets
Athens' metro, buses, trams and trolleybuses share an integrated ticket valid for 90 minutes. There are also 24-hour, five-day and tourist tickets that include airport transfers. You can tap a contactless bank card at the validators. Keep tickets until you leave the station.
Siesta and mealtimes
Many Athenians take a break in the afternoon, especially in summer, and dinner often starts at 21:00 or later. Some small shops close in the afternoon on certain days. Taverns stay open late.
Tap water and heat
Athens tap water is safe to drink. Carry water, wear a hat, and plan sightseeing in the morning and evening in summer. Many museums are air-conditioned refuges.
Strikes
Public transport strikes are fairly common in Greece. They are usually announced in advance, so check news if your travel depends on the metro or ferries.
Smoking
Smoking is officially banned indoors in public places, but enforcement varies, and outdoor terraces may be smoky.
Taxis
Athens taxis are yellow and metered. Use apps such as FreeNow or Uber, which books licensed taxis. From the airport, a flat daytime fare to the centre applies, rising at night.
Shopping hours
Many shops close on Sundays except in tourist areas such as Plaka and Monastiraki, and some close early on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday afternoons.
Heat
In July and August, visit sites early in the morning and carry water; the Acropolis may close at midday in heatwaves.
Emergencies
Dial 112. The Tourist Police can be reached at 1571. Tap water is safe in Athens.
More Athens guides
Where to stay in Athens · Things to do in Athens · Search Athens hotels