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Athens travel guide

Athens: where 3,000 years of history meet the sea

Ancient temples above lively streets, rooftop bars facing the Acropolis and tavernas packed with locals, plus the ports that take you to the islands.

Best timeApr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Ideal stay2–3 days
Airport → center~40 min by car
Ferry portsPiraeus & Rafina
Why visit Athens

More than a stopover

Most travelers treat Athens as a quick stop on the way to the islands, and most of them wish they had stayed longer. The Greek capital is one of the oldest cities in the world, but it's anything but a museum: street art in Psyrri, coffee culture in Koukaki, rooftop bars facing the Parthenon and some of the best food in Greece.

In two or three days you can see the Acropolis at sunrise, wander the old lanes of Plaka and Anafiotika, watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill and still have time for a swim on the Athens Riviera.

Our drivers have lived here all their lives. Below you'll find their favorite things to do, the best areas to stay and how to get around without stress.

Local tipVisit the Acropolis at opening time in summer, before the heat and the cruise-ship crowds.
Don't miss

6 unforgettable things to do in Athens

01

The Acropolis & the Parthenon

The symbol of Greece, standing above the city for almost 2,500 years. Combine it with the modern Acropolis Museum just below.

Book a timed ticket online and go early.
02

Plaka & Anafiotika

The oldest neighborhood in Athens: bougainvillea, neoclassical houses and a tiny "island village" of whitewashed homes hidden under the Acropolis.

Get lost on purpose. It's the best way to see it.
03

Sunset from Lycabettus Hill

The highest point in central Athens, with a 360° view from the Acropolis to the sea. Walk up or take the funicular.

Arrive 45 minutes before sunset for a good spot.
04

Changing of the Guard

The Evzones in their traditional uniforms guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Syntagma Square. The change happens every hour.

On Sunday mornings there's a larger ceremony with a band.
05

Monastiraki & Psyrri

Flea-market stalls, street food, street art and buzzing bars. This is where Athens comes alive at night.

Try a souvlaki around Monastiraki Square.
06

Cape Sounion at sunset

A coastal drive along the Athens Riviera to the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff above the Aegean. A magical half-day trip.

Ask us about a private Sounion sunset tour.
Where to stay

The best areas to stay in Athens

Choose your base by travel style. All of these areas are within easy reach of the main sights.

First-timers

Plaka

Walk to the Acropolis and the main sights. Charming and picturesque, but busy and touristy by day.

Local vibe

Koukaki

A relaxed, residential area next to the Acropolis Museum, full of cafés, bakeries and neighborhood tavernas.

Nightlife

Monastiraki & Psyrri

Rooftop bars, street food and late nights. Central and great value, but it can be noisy.

Upscale

Kolonaki

Elegant streets, designer boutiques and stylish cafés at the foot of Lycabettus Hill.

Convenience

Syntagma

The city's main square and transport hub, with direct metro to the airport.

Beach & city

Athens Riviera

Glyfada and Vouliagmeni: seaside hotels, beach clubs and the famous Vouliagmeni Lake.

Swipe for more →
Getting around

Airport, ports & city transfers

Approximate travel times by car. They depend on traffic, especially in July and August.

Athens Airport → City centerSyntagma, Plaka, Koukaki
35–45 min
Athens Airport → Piraeus PortMain port for the Cyclades
45–60 min
Athens Airport → Rafina PortFerries to Mykonos, Paros, Naxos
20–25 min
City center → Piraeus PortFerry day from your hotel
25–35 min
Athens → Cape SounionScenic coastal road
~1h 15 min

Skip the taxi queue

Your driver waits in arrivals with your name, helps with the luggage and takes you straight to your hotel or ferry gate.

  • Fixed price per vehicle, no surprises
  • Free waiting if your flight or ferry is late
  • Child seats & vans for up to 12 people
  • Pay by cash, card or Apple Pay
See prices & book →
Give Athens at least one full day. The city surprises everyone who stays a little longer.
The Happy Move drivers
FAQ

Athens: frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Athens?

Two to three days is ideal to see the Acropolis, the main museums and neighborhoods, and to enjoy the food scene. With one day, you can still cover the highlights if you start early.

How do I get from Athens Airport to the city center?

By metro (Line 3), by express bus, by taxi or by private transfer. By car it takes about 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Yes. Athens is generally a safe city. As in any big city, watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas such as the metro and around Monastiraki.

Can I visit Athens and the islands in one trip?

Absolutely. Most visitors spend 2–3 days in Athens and then take a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina. We can pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the right gate.

Keep exploring

Next stop: the islands