When to Go
The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons, which are Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October), as you’ll experience pleasant weather with fewer crowds and more affordable prices compared to the hot summer months
Helpful Websites
Getting Here
Flying into Athens is easier than ever and now so is getting into the city. The Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is state-of-the-art and very user-friendly. This page will give you information on getting into the city or getting to the Greek islands.
Getting Around
Metro: Considered the best choice for most travel within Athens, with multiple lines reaching key areas.
Walking: Ideal for exploring the historic center, including the Acropolis and Plaka neighborhoods.
Buses: Buses are a popular way to get around, connecting many cities, towns, and tourist destinations – The KTEL bus network operates routes across the mainland and Greek Islands – frequency may be reduced during off season
Car rental: Traffic congestion and parking difficulties make renting a car generally not worth it unless you plan to explore further outside the city.
Money
Greece’s currency is the euro (€). All major credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, though some establishments do not accept American Express and Diners. Although Greek businesses are legally required to have card terminals, you still shouldn’t ditch cash completely. Some small businesses and artists still might prefer or only accept cash payments. The best way to get euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for euros before arriving.
Safety
Greece is generally safe for tourists, but you should exercise normal precautions, especially in crowded areas.
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- Be aware of your belongings: Keep your passport and valuables secure, and don’t leave your bag on the floor.
- Avoid scams: Be wary of unsolicited offers, and be careful of taxi drivers who take longer routes or don’t use the meter.
- Be alert: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and on public transit.
- Avoid isolated areas: Avoid parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark.
- Stay informed: Be aware of current events, and avoid large demonstrations or gathering
Tipping
In Athens, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, with the general practice being to round up the bill or leave a small tip of a couple of euros, especially in tourist areas, for good service; a 10-15% tip is considered generous if you want to leave more than just rounding up.
