Athens Tourism

Athens contributes very much to the tourism industry of the entire Greece, being home to a long list of archaeological sites, archaic monuments, and old towns.
The most popular months for tourism in Athens are June to August. However, in April, May, September and October, the weather is pleasant and the crowds of tourists are limited, which makes visits to archaeological sites, museums and other places a lot easier. Accommodations are cheaper to book, too.

Similarly to other Mediterranean and Balkan cities, the Greek capital remains quite traditional to a notable extent, in opposition to many other cities of the EU (mainly in the northern and central countries).
The best places to see are within the city center's limits. In fact, Athens tourism is mostly concentrated in the city center, although many interesting places to visit are located in the suburbs. Most lodging options are situated in central locations, too. Indicatively, plentiful hotels are hosted in Syntagma Square, Omonoia, Monastiraki, Thissio and Acropolis.

Overall, tourism in Athens mostly focuses on archaeology and culture. There are numerous sights to enjoy in the fantastic and never-sleeping city.
The best ambulation would include walking around the center and losing yourself in the small streets of the lovely neighborhood of Plaka. You will eventually pass by the flea market of Monastiraki and the market on Athinas Street, where your eyes and nose will fill with images and smells of meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, herbs, honey, and coffee. Right next to the market, you will encounter Psiri, the neighborhood of taverns, restaurants, live music, fashionable bars, and fun until the break of dawn.

The city is one of the most unique places to visit in Greece, boasting a wide list of archaeological monuments that you shouldn't miss, like the little church on top of Lycabettus Hill, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. Another highlight of the city is the lovely walk path built for the Olympic Games, which starts from the archaeological site at the Arch of Hadrian and the Temple of the Olympian Zeus, passes by the Theater of Herodes Atticus, continues to Thissio neighborhood and ends in Gazi.

We would advise you to stop at Thiseio to enjoy a coffee frappe at one of the numerous cafeterias that can be found there, all with a view of the Acropolis. Keep an entire morning for the visit of the majestic site of the Acropolis, its museum and surroundings, and the little theatre of Dionysos, on its southeast side. Most of the churches sprinkled in the city are worth the visit. The city's main square, Syntagma Square, will probably be seen numerous times since it is where most of the buses leave and arrive.

Do not forget to take a minute to admire the wonderful neoclassical building of the Hellenic Parliament and the Evzones, its guards, wearing the traditional outfit. At the end of the day a walk in the National Gardens or the smaller but lovely gardens of the Zappeion Megaron.

Greek hospitality is still apparent in the big city, as you will discover after meeting the locals. Follow the Greek way of life by relaxing in a kafeneion (traditional cafe) or a taverna (traditional restaurant), where you will take your time to enjoy food and drinks and blend in with the Greeks and their festive mood.

Lastly, regarding transportation, buses, metros, trolleys, and taxis are all ways to visit Athens' points of interest.