Top reasons to visit Athens
- Iconic Historical Sites: Explore the Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greece, offering breathtaking views and rich archaeological heritage.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Experience lively nightlife along Athinas Street, with a plethora of bars and clubs for evening entertainment.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture at the Athens Music Hall and various theatres.
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax at nearby beach resorts, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the Mediterranean coastline.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from modern hotels to stylish aparthotels, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
Find great hotels in Athens
Experience the vibrant charm of Athens with a diverse selection of accommodations tailored to every traveller's needs. From modern hotels to stylish aparthotels, find the perfect base for your business trip, family holiday, or shopping spree. Discover top hotels in Athens, where comfort meets convenience, ensuring a memorable stay in this historic city.
- The Stanley: The Stanley is a distinguished 4-star hotel situated in the heart of Athens' vibrant shopping district. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it is an eco-certified establishment that caters to environmentally conscious travellers. The hotel combines a modern aesthetic with sustainability, offering amenities that promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. Visitors appreciate its proximity to various shopping venues and its commitment to providing a comfortable yet responsible stay. The Stanley’s unique theme revolves around blending urban shopping experiences with sustainable practices, making it an ideal choice for those prioritising eco-consciousness during their travels.
- Zeus Wyndham Grand Athens: As a luxurious 5-star property, Zeus Wyndham Grand Athens is tailored for families seeking a premium vacation experience. This hotel offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including babysitting services, cribs, and first-aid kits, ensuring that both parents and children feel well-cared for. Its elegant design and upscale facilities create a welcoming atmosphere for families. Guests rave about the spacious accommodations and the attentive staff, who go the extra mile to cater to their needs. Located in a prime area, the hotel serves as a perfect base for exploring Athens while indulging in a luxurious escape.
- Athens Gate Hotel: Boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, the 4-star Athens Gate Hotel is centrally located, making it an excellent choice for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel offers various amenities for families, including window guards, babysitting services, and first-aid kits, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for guests of all ages. Its modern and comfortable accommodations, combined with a city-themed experience, provide a delightful backdrop for exploring the historical sights of Athens. Visitors appreciate the convenience of being close to key attractions while enjoying high-quality service and facilities.
Where to stay in Athens
Athens, a vibrant metropolis, offers a rich tapestry of culture and history for travellers. Immerse yourself in the city's lively nightlife along Athinas Street, or relax at beach resorts nearby. Enjoy a central location that connects you to the enchanting Greek islands. With a warm atmosphere and friendly locals, Athens is perfect for family-friendly adventures, business trips, or a relaxing getaway, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
- Athens City Centre: The vibrant heart of Athens, the City Centre is a bustling neighbourhood that offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. Visitors are drawn here year-round, with peaks during the summer months of July to September. The area is famed for its outdoor experiences, including shopping in lively markets and exploring iconic historic sites and archaeological wonders. Must-visit attractions include the ancient Agora and the majestic Acropolis, both within easy reach, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this timeless city.
- Plaka: Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka is one of Athens' most charming neighbourhoods, renowned for its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere. Similar to the City Centre, it experiences a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly from July to September. The area is perfect for those seeking cultural engagement and outdoor enjoyment, with its quaint shops and bustling markets. Visitors can wander through narrow alleys lined with neoclassical architecture, and explore historical landmarks such as the Roman Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, making it a delightful spot for any traveller.
- Glyfada: Located along the stunning coastline, Glyfada offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of central Athens. Unlike the other areas, Glyfada sees a more consistent flow of visitors throughout the year, peaking in the summer months of June to July. Known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, this city is ideal for those who enjoy sunbathing or water sports. Visitors can explore the local marina, indulge in shopping at trendy boutiques, or unwind at the many beachside cafes, making Glyfada a perfect blend of urban and seaside experiences.
Things to do in Athens
Shopping
For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Ermou Street, known for its mix of international brands and local boutiques. Alternatively, explore the Athens Central Market for fresh produce and unique souvenirs, or head to The Mall Athens for a range of shops and dining options.
Recreation
Experience the rejuvenating atmosphere at the Athens Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in holistic treatments and yoga sessions. Nearby, the National Garden offers a tranquil escape with lush greenery, perfect for a leisurely stroll or meditation amidst nature.
Adventure
Explore the ancient Acropolis, where you can hike to the iconic Parthenon and enjoy panoramic views of Athens. For a thrilling experience, venture to Mount Parnitha for hiking and mountain biking, or join a sea kayak tour around the stunning coastline of Vouliagmeni.
Nightlife
Athens' nightlife is vibrant and eclectic. Start your evening at the lively Gazi district, known for its trendy bars and clubs. For a more relaxed vibe, explore the tavernas in Psiri, where you can enjoy live music and traditional Greek cuisine. The atmosphere is electric, with something to suit various tastes.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Athens
Athens provides several opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions such as Syntagma Square and Ermou Street, and utilise the affordable public transport options, including the Metro and buses. For accommodation, consider visiting during the cheaper months from December to February and booking about a month in advance for better rates. Tuesdays typically offer the lowest hotel prices, while Fridays are pricier. Don’t forget to check Expedia for package deals that combine flights and accommodation for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Athens are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Athens is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Athens is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Athens is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation options for you to consider.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Athens with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Athens
Athens offers a perfect blend of culture, outdoor activities, and city experiences for tourists. Key attractions include the iconic Acropolis of Athens, vibrant piazzas, and beautiful beaches. For a taste of local culture, explore the Athens Music Hall and the modernist side of the city. Don't miss the stunning views from the Acropolis, which provide a glimpse into the rich archaeological heritage that Athens is renowned for.
- Acropolis: Discover the iconic Acropolis, an ancient citadel perched on a rocky outcrop that offers a glimpse into Greece's rich history. Marvel at the Parthenon and other classical structures while soaking up the cultural atmosphere that permeates this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Temple of Athena Nike: Visit the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, a small but significant temple dedicated to the goddesses of victory. Its exquisite architectural details and stunning location provide insight into ancient Athenian worship and the city's dedication to triumph.
- Mavili Square: Experience the vibrant Mavili Square, a lively piazza that serves as a social hub for locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by cafes and shops, it's an ideal spot to enjoy the urban culture and observe daily life in Athens.
Best time to go to Athens
The best time to visit Athens is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Athens
Arriving in ATHens is convenient through Athens International Airport (ATH-Eleftherios Venizelos), located 19km from the city. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Sofitel Athens Airport, only 161m away, offering easy access to the airport. Zeus Dolce by Wyndham Athens, situated 5km away, and Zeus Essence Ramada by Wyndham Athens, 13km distant, are also excellent options. For those considering flights from Milos (MLO-Milos Island National) or Mykonos (JMK-Mykonos Island National), both airports are located approximately 96-156km from Athens and have luxurious accommodations nearby, providing various transportation services to ensure a seamless travel experience.