Travel guide · Greece
Athens: what to see and when to go
Athens is the cradle of democracy and philosophy, where the Acropolis rises above a sprawling, energetic modern city. Beyond the ancient sites it has lively neighbourhoods, rooftop bars facing the Parthenon and easy ferries to the islands from Piraeus.
What to see and do in Athens
The Acropolis
The Parthenon and the Erechtheion; go at opening time or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds.
Acropolis Museum
The Parthenon sculptures in a glass building at the foot of the hill.
Plaka and Anafiotika
Old lanes and whitewashed island-style houses just below the Acropolis.
Ancient Agora and Monastiraki
The marketplace where Socrates taught, and the flea market next to it.
Cape Sounion
The Temple of Poseidon on a cliff above the Aegean, best at sunset.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Feb – Jun.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 3 hr, 45 min | ≈ €220 · See flights |
| New York | 10 hr, 45 min | ≈ €550 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 14 hr, 45 min | ≈ €640 · See flights |
| Dubai | 4 hr, 45 min | ≈ €290 · See flights |
| Singapore | 12 hr, 15 min | ≈ €580 · See flights |
| Sydney | 20 hr, 15 min | ≈ €770 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €430 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Greece
- Currency
- Euro
- Good for
- culture · city · food · nightlife
- How long to stay
- 2–3 days
- Where to stay
- Plaka or Koukaki near the Acropolis; Pangrati or Kolonaki for a more local feel.Find a place to stay in Athens
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Athens, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €220 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Athens (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Athens and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Feb – Jun. Average highs range from 12° in January to 34° in July.
How many days do you need in Athens?
2 to 3 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Athens cost?
Accommodation runs at around €70 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €430 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 3 hr, 45 min.
Where should you stay in Athens?
Plaka or Koukaki near the Acropolis; Pangrati or Kolonaki for a more local feel.
