athens greece safe to travel

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Greece Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greece.

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Is Athens Safe? Areas to Avoid and Other Warnings

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

The capital of Greece is also the home of ancient world treasures, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and Hadrian’s Arch. Located near Greece’s southern tip, Athens is full of all the beauty that comes with troves of ruins and antiquities, many of them dating back to the 5th century BCE, which puts these current times into proper perspective. Athens has modern marvels as well, plus an inviting Mediterranean climate that lends itself to visiting any time of year.

But travelers who are considering booking a trip often find themselves wondering, “Is Athens safe to visit?”—especially in the years since Greece has hit hard economic times, and since Europe has seen terrorism spike.

Rest assured that Athens isn’t particularly dangerous. Crime statistics point toward the fact that it’s actually quite a safe city for travelers—Athens is not included on lengthy lists of the world’s most dangerous cities , and a 2019 crime index from Numbeo put the Greek capital at number 130 on the list, rating it safer than cities such as Tampa, Florida and Dublin, Ireland.

Still, there are certain things that travelers to Athens should keep in mind to ensure the safest possible visit.

Tips for Staying Safe in Athens

• Steer clear of the areas that are known to be dangerous in Athens, including the nightclubs of Glyfada Square, as well as the semi-frequent protests and demonstrations that happen near political centers.
• Stay vigilant for pickpockets and other petty thieves, since these are the most common crimes targeting travelers in Athens. Be especially cautious at crowded attractions, on public transportation, and in taxis, where drivers sometimes scam their passengers.
• Be aware that prostitution is legal in Athens—but that most of the city’s prostitutes operate outside the law, either because they are victims of human trafficking or because they don’t take the proper medical precautions. Do not partake, and stay away from the seedy areas where prostitution is rampant.

Top Travel Safety Products for Athens

Anti-Theft Backpack

Travel Money Belt

Safety Whistle

Safe places—and places to avoid—in athens.

When keeping in mind areas to avoid in Athens, know that Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi, and Kolokotroni Squares have high crime rates and should be avoided at night, if not altogether. These areas of Athens can be dangerous in part because they’re frequented by anarchist groups, as well as drug dealers and thieves—even children who are thieves. As for other areas of Athens to avoid, Monastiraki and near the railway stations of Larissa and Peloponissos are crime hot spots , while the nightclubs of Glyfada Square are associated with organized crime.

Protests are semi-common in Athens, especially at Syntagma Square, which tends to be the political center of things. Travelers should bear in mind that political protests can occur randomly and occasionally turn dangerous—so steer well clear. If you somehow find yourself near a large gathering, be extremely cautious, do not cross police lines, keep a low profile, and monitor local media for updates and instructions.

Travelers should also be aware of local scams in Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Glyfada ; the main one involves luring tourists into a bar while promising special prices on cocktails. Instead, patrons are presented with an overly exorbitant tab for their beverages and threatened with violence if they refuse to pay. A couple of Athens bars where this type of extortion has been known to happen include Reina Bar and Hollywood Pub.

In addition to knowing the dangerous areas in Athens, it’s also good to know where the city’s safest places are. In northern Athens, the neighborhood of Kolononaki is safe even at night, and boasts high-end restaurants and art galleries. Metaxourgio, previously an impoverished neighborhood, has been gentrified and is now a popular and safe place to explore during the daytime, especially for lovers of the arts. In addition, Plaka and Psirri offer friendly cafes where you can get a lively taste of Greek life and culture.

How to Get Around Safely in Athens

The most prominent form of crime in Athens is, as you might guess, pickpocketing. By all accounts, pickpocketing, purse snatching, and other forms of petty theft are common, especially at crowded tourist attractions, nightlife destinations, and on buses and trains, where you should take extra care to guard your belongings. Be particularly vigilant if someone seems like they’re trying to distract you; meanwhile, someone else may be reaching into your purse. Keep your wallet in your front (not your back) pocket, and consider investing in a slash-resistant backpack with a reliable zipper.

When you’re out on the road, keep in mind that Greece has comparatively high rates of traffic fatalities, due mostly to drivers who are speeding, distracted, or simply not following the rules. Heavy traffic and obscured highway signs are additional problems that affect safety on Athens’ streets. Drive defensively—or not at all, if you can avoid it.

Be careful, too, if you’re planning to take taxis in Athens, as taxi scams are widespread here. Though Athens taxis are generally safe when it comes to your physical well-being, the same cannot be said for the safety of your cash. Athens’ taxi drivers, especially those who pick up from the airport, are notorious for gouging tourists, charging their passengers far more than they’re actually owed.

So whenever you get into a taxi in Athens, make sure that it’s licenced and official, that your driver turns on the meter when he starts driving (not before, and not never), that you and your driver have agreed on at least a ballpark range for the fare, that you know the directions to where you’re going (speak up if your driver starts to take a roundabout route), and that you’ll be willing to call the police if you’re being ripped off—this will usually get your taxi driver on the right path again.

Other Athens Scams and Safety Tips

As you make your way through Athens, there are other scams that travelers should be aware of to stay safe and away from crime: Refrain from buying the pirated and counterfeit items that are sold in droves on the streets of Central Athens and Thessaloniki—it’s illegal to buy these items in Greece, and it’s illegal to transport them into the United States. Don’t use ATMs in Athens unless they’re in a reputable hotel or bank, as a recent uptick in credit card skimming has been reported throughout Greece.

Though Athens provides a mostly safe environment for female travelers, women traveling here may find that men are more forward in Greece than in other countries. If you decline their advances, men will more often than not apologize and move along. Still, women should exercise some caution in Athens at night—especially in Monastiraki, Omonia, Psirri, Mextaxourgio, and any poorly lit place —and keep belongings close.

Prostitution in Athens

Prostitution is technically legal in Greece, starting at the age of 18. Legal sex workers must be registered and carry a medical card that needs to be updated every two weeks. However, there’s plenty of illegal prostitution here too; clients seeking escorts in Athens have reported seeing victims of sex trafficking and human slavery in brothels.

In recent years, Greece has become a destination point for women and children stolen from Eastern and Southern Europe, South Asia, Africa, and China, who are subjected to sex trafficking in unlicensed brothels along Solonos Street, Theatrou Square, and Evripidou Street. Keep in mind that many of these women (and men) don’t take the proper medical precautions—in short, it’s not worth the risk.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Ways to Protect Your Valuables While Traveling
• 12 Life-Saving Travel Hacks for Your Next Trip
• 10 Travel Safety Tips You Can Learn from the CIA

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Australia: 12-Night Sydney, Cairns & the...

Down Under Answers

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Shop and Save with Country Inns...

Patricia Magaña

Trending on SmarterTravel

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Athens Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Greece : Safety by City

• Thessaloniki

Athens is the most populous and the largest city in Greece with a population of 3.7 million inhabitants.

It is the city where the western civilization began, but today, it is the capital of Greece with numerous landmarks and highly popular tourists’ sights, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon temple, the Acropolis Museum, along with the National Archaeological Museum, The Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, the Temple of Olympian Zeus among many others.

Its antiquity and all these sights dating back thousands of years, making it well-visited since people from all over the world come to admire the beauty of the ancient ruins mixed with the newly made restaurants, hotels, and bars.

• Warnings & Dangers in Athens

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Athens is considered a very safe city, even for solo female travelers. The crime rate is very low and as long as you take normal precautions, you will feel safe here. Most visits are trouble-free, but the theft of passports and wallets are common on the metro and in crowded tourist sights.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Fake taxis can sometimes be a problem in Athens, so tourists need to insist on the meter and make sure the rate is correct. If you realize that he/she has overcharged you, you can always report this to the tourist police, once you take the receipt and registration plates. You should be aware of the possibility of taxi sharing, which is not common in other countries.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Regarding the fact that it is a top tourist destination, pickpocket risk is at a very high level in Athens. Special attention should be paid to the buses and the Metro. Also, be aware of street crime, like purse-snatching, especially around banks and ATMs.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Natural hazards, like earthquakes, can happen in Greece but are very rare. During the summer months when the weather is too hot, forest fires often occur.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The possibility of being mugged or kidnapped in Athens is at a very low level. There are some dangerous parts of the city, but you will be informed about them by your travel guides.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

The risk of a terrorist attack in Greece is at a low level, but still, it cannot be ruled out. Demonstrations and riots are considered a part of everyday life, so tourists should avoid them in order not to be arrested.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Scammers, who try to take advantage of tourists, are frequent in Athens, especially close to the landmarks. Tourists should pay attention to people offering help with their luggage. Recently, there have been some reports of the friendly stranger bar scam in Omonia, Syntagma, and Plaka, which are very well visited by tourists.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

As the whole of Greece, Athens is a safe city for women travelers. There are almost no reports on personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape against foreign women in Athens. Of course, vigilance is necessary as in any other major city in the world.

• So... How Safe Is Athens Really?

Athens is the city with a rich history and the magnificent Acropolis is there as a reminder of that.

Its parks, squares, museums are only some of the must-see sights that attract people from the whole globe.

Being safe, even for women traveling alone, and with a low crime rate in general, it is an inviting city that offers tourists a historic walk and the exploring of Athens’ charming neighborhoods while in the city.

There are some areas throughout the city with a lot of pickpockets, so you should take precautions to protect your belongings.

Your valuables, like money, credit cards, and passport, should never be shown in the street or bars.

As long as you know that some areas may not be as safe as others, like Omonoia and Exarcheia, because there are a lot of beggars, drug dealers and thieves, just try to avoid visiting them, particularly at night.

• How Does Athens Compare?
• Useful Information

If you stay less than 90 days, you do not need to have a visa when entering Greece. The EU nationals can stay longer in the country, but they need to have a valid passport. To find out whether you need a visa or not, there are useful websites that can help you.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro. You may exchange your money at banks or Foreign Exchange Bureaus. You should be aware of the restrictions on the amount of money you can withdraw per day. In comparison with other European capitals, Athens is considered a cheap city.

When the weather in Greece is in question, the best time to visit Athens is from May to September. Winters are mild and rainy, and summers are hot, but not that hot as some places in Greece's interior.

The new Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is 27 km away from the city center, and since it was opened in 2001, it is one of the most attractive European airports.

Travel Insurance

You should get a travel insurance policy that may become necessary during your trip. It protects you in case of illness, accident or baggage loss.

Athens Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Greece - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

20 Reviews on Athens

Lots of pickpockets and street scams. do not ever visit.

Street scams and pickpockets are everywhere. They would try every means to unzip your bags and pants and steal your wallets and phones, especially on the metro. Taxi drivers would also trick you. Some of the streets look sketchy as hell where gangsters gather. My advice is do not ever visit Athens. There are lots of other European cities much worth visiting where you do not have to stay alert every second and feel safe traveling around.

This review by Klay is highly inaccurate. Athens is a wonderful and diverse city with many different areas. Overwhelmingly the majority of the areas (including the beautiful suburbs to the south of Athens near the shoreline) are very safe and millions of tourists visit every year without any incidents. Of course in a major metropolis that has over 5 million people living in it just basic common sense is needed. When in crowded areas and especially in metros and buses during rush hour, keep your wallet and bag secure (I cannot understand why some people keep their wallets in their back pockets for example) and be mindful of your surroundings. When in a city this big the major concern is pickpocketing, I would say that this speaks for itself.

I love Athens!

You must’ve been in the wrong area. Every city has good and bad areas. I stayed in the Mt Lycabettus area of Athens and walked miles. I walked to Syntagma Square everyday. I was even out walking at night alone, the latest 11:30 pm. No one bothered me. I’ve traveled to many cities in Europe and Athens is one of my favorites. Γεια σας!

Casey, you said “every city has good and bad areas”. Do you truly believe that in Athens and, for example, in Oslo, you will have the same possibilities to fall victin of fraud or pickpocket? lol. Generally, I agree with your opinion, but some cities -like Athens- have much more bad areas and, unfortunately, Athens is overall more dangerous city than many other cities in Europe, especially nothern capital cities. It’s so easy to go in “wrong” area if you are a tourist. Omonia, Victoria, Attiki, Pedion tou Areos park, Filopappou Hill are some of the “no go areas”. Addiotionally, metro line 1 is famous for romani people who try to steal whatever they find, if they have the oportunity. I am Greek citizen and, sad to say, I strongly agree with Klay. I am proud for my country’s history, but I am embarrased for its safety.

I visited Athens many times with family. it’s a nice city… and we feel safe.

Not a good review.

Athens, and Greece in general, is not so safe for women in every place, definitely not “Low”. There are many incidents were women have been mistreated, catcalled and even harassed or raped. Recently someone in Crete deliberately hit a US scientist with his car in order to rape her and then murdered her!! (google it) Generally incidents with tourists being caught up in a violent fight and sometimes even killed can be found in the news almost every year. Possibility of being mugged also is not “very low”, especially in some neighbourhoods.

Worse happens in London. Google it!

Crete is not Athens

Crete is a Greek island that’s about nine hours away by ferry or one to two hours away by plane. In other words, Crete is not Athens.

Athens is much worse, I got my car broken into and all my things were stolen while i was visiting the Acropolis. Even the police said they have over a thousand baggage/luggage tefts per day in Athens. Essentially it’s a very dangerous place and all tourists are viewed as prey by some. Also the TOURIST POLICE is useless, and also closes at 9PM ( I got there at 9:15). I was sent to 4 different police stations because they all close at 10pm, and in the end it took 2 hours to file a report in the police station at Minermou nr.6 (they were doing me a favor and were completely unprofessional). I say Athens is not worth visiting

Pick pocket paradise

My husband s wallet was just picked by a group with baby and old people in the metro on the very day we arrived to Athens. They pushed and pushed and when my husband noted his wallet had lost and right away he asked the group to returned to him but in vain. No one in the metro helped and on reporting to the tourist police office, there was no service at all and they even shouted to the other reporting tourists. So my advice is: don’t go to Athens. Tourists are not protected so why spent money there? There are a lot of good cities all around the world. I m not returning for sure.

Agree. Don’t go/come back. Worse than Italy when it comes to pick pockets and police not caring for tourists.

Don’t go there. Better, safer places to visit

I was wondering if this page under rated the level of crime in Athens. Many travelers told me don’t go. Pick picking. Scams. Thieves. I will go elsewhere. Would been better had this article reflected real world situation. Being Americans also add the anti American attitudes. Even harassed. Police in Athens seem to care less about safety of tourists. Stop going there. Once the money tap runs low from no tourists they may start to care.

Don’t be paranoid, people!

I was in Athens last year and it was safe. I was in the Syntagma Square area and at no time did I feel unsafe. Pickpockets on the metro? I’m sure of it, especially coming from the airport since there were signs warning you of it. But if you pay attention then it’s not a problem. I was on there once but I will definitely go back soon.

We had our rental car broken into 2 times and everything inside was stolen. Also near the acropolis before a guarded hotel with security camera’s. Never heard anything back from the police! Don’t leave anything in your car, even if it’s not visible!

Safe and cultural-rich

I would rate Athens safe even for single female travelers. I had to spend two days on my own until my friends arrived and apart from some minor catcalling I was left unbothered. Pickpocketing is a plague in almost all cities worldwide so I wouldn’t say no to visiting Athens just for this.

Not the most safe, but very memorable and important

One of my favorite cities, but not the safest, especially for women.

The Greek economy is horrible, and there is a sizable population of young men who are jobless or even homeless. Athens has a lot of dark streets and alleyways (very charming and cute in daylight though).

The popular areas a fantastic, but you can still tell this city was once something grander than it is now. I’d recommend everyone to visit, but understandably might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The history and Acropolis make it worth it.

Incredible food, restaurants, and nigh-life. If you are a nigh-owl, there is no better city to visit. Locals start eating dinner closer to 11 PM, it’s insane but a lot of fun.

Pick pockets in Athens

I just returned from a trip to Athens. Great city but I was pick pocketed by Agora in the morning. My advice is hide you bag under your coat or jacket. Within 5 minutes of it happening walking up a steep hill I realised what had occurred. The main centre seems safe at night. I didn’t travel on the metro. We used the same yellow cab driver for airport runs and longer journeys within Athens.

Low risk, but be aware of pickpockets.

In general, Athens is quite a safe city; you just need to pay a little extra attention to avoid becoming victom of pickpockets on the metro (especially near the Airport).

I like Athens, but there are scams

I love Athens – but damn its true that there are scams – friendly stranger scam: random person invites you to a bar for a drink, over charged, pressured to pay, threats, etc. – if some stranger starts talking to you randomly, they’re a scammer or a nut – feel free to be rude to them – pickpockets, taxi scams, too

Athens is low risk

Athens, in general, is a very safe city. The only place where one needs to be careful, in order to avoid pickpockets, is the Athens Metro, during rush hour. Other than that, risk is low and feels definitely a lot safer than other big cities in Europe or the US.

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

• Athens : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Silvian on 17 Pros and Cons of Living in Canada
• Shan on Brisbane
• dummy above me on Saudi Arabia
• amora on 15 Pros and Cons of Living in Jamaica
• M.... on Amman

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

Day Trips from Athens

48 Hours in Athens

Top Things to Do

Top Temple Sites

Best Beaches

Mount Olympus

Ancient Greek Theaters

Foods to Try

Top Restaurants in Athens

Best Bars in Athens

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Athens International Airport Guide

Cities to Visit

Neighborhoods to Explore

Traveling Safely in Greece

Despite periods of unrest, Greece remains relatively safe

Pedro Szekely/Flickr 

Over the years, Greece has had occasional periods of unrest that have led travelers to wonder how safe the country is. 

The bottom line: There are risks in traveling to Greece , including some unique to the country, but as of April 2020, the U.S. Department of State does not discourage American travelers from visiting the country and urges travelers to exercise normal precautions. 

Concerns About Greece's Safety

Greece has been the site of many domestic terrorist attacks. In addition, the U.S. Department of State warns of the potential of transnational terrorist attacks in European countries. ​The warning indicates that all European countries are potentially vulnerable to terrorist attacks focused on public areas where tourists and locals may gather and provides detailed safety information to help tourists avoid becoming an opportunistic target.

The State Department also notes the following safety concerns about Greece:

• Strikes and demonstrations are common and they can escalate to violence. On Nov. 17 every year, you can expect to see demonstrations. This is the anniversary of the 1973 student uprising against the military regime.
• Beware of violent anarchist groups. Some use university campuses as a refuge. They may join in with peaceful demonstrations which then turn violent.

As in many European cities, there are warnings about crimes targeting tourists. The U.S. Department of State urges caution in Greek cities as crimes like pick-pocketing and purse snatching are known to take place in tourist areas, on public transportation (especially the Metro), and in Thessaloniki shopping areas. Car break-ins have been reported and the U.S. Embassy has received reports of alcohol-related attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.

Be careful, also, of the dangerous and often homemade celebratory fireworks for Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations at midnight on Holy Saturday. 

Areas to Avoid in Greece

If there is rioting for any reason, these are the areas to avoid:

Downtown metropolitan areas:  These areas are often the site of protests. In Athens, avoid the area around Syntagma Square, Panepistimou, and Embassy Row. Unfortunately, this also includes some of Athens' finest hotels.

University campuses:  Violent anarchist groups have used campuses as a place of refuge and so the State Department warns that demonstrators frequently gather in the Polytechnic University region. The department also warns against going near Aristotle University. 

While TV images can be scary in times of unrest, Greece has a long "tradition" of vigorous civil protest. Usually, no one gets hurt and the violence is directed at property, not people. If there are demonstrations and tear gas is used, that can affect the air quality of the immediate area. If the streets are filled with demonstrators, you can expect closures and transportation difficulties. Needless to say, sightseeing will be curtailed.

Spots For a Peaceful Trip in Greece

The large Greek cities are the most affected by demonstrations and strikes. Avoid the big cities and plan your trip to one of these more peaceful destinations: 

• The Greek Islands :  Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Lesbos, and Corfu are all good options. On the larger islands, such as Crete and Corfu, there may be some disturbances in the major towns in times of stress, but nothing like what you would experience in Athens or Thessaloniki. If it concerns you, choose a hotel   outside of the city centers of Heraklion, Chania, Thessaloniki, Rhodes City and Corfu Town, though the last two are rarely involved in civil disturbances.
• The Greek countryside:  Places with older populations and spots that are a bit out of the way are likely to remain quiet. Nafplion, on the  Peloponnese peninsula , is a pleasant town providing a good base for day trips to Corinth, Epidaurus and even across the Rio-Antirio Bridge to Delphi.
• A Greek Islands cruise:  A Greek cruise is a great option, as the ships have the ability to skip a port stop if there are any problems developing. You get the full benefit of sea and sun, and you have mobility in your favor.

Tips for a Safer and Easier Trip

Consider these tips when traveling to Greece:

• Have a cell phone that works in Greece . Buy a pay-as-you-go phone there if necessary. An innkeeper trying to alert you to a situation may not want to make a pricey international call. Enter your hotel numbers and other important numbers in your cell phone, like sightseeing locations and restaurants, so you can call and ask if they are open, if they are accessible or if there is an alternate route. Keep your cell phone charged and have a backup power source.
• Travel light and smart. Dragging lots of luggage makes everything harder. Take half of what you think you'll need. Scale it down. Take the smaller camera. Tear out the chapter of the guidebook that you need or take a digital picture of it and avoid papers altogether. Forget the shoulder bag. Use a small backpack; you may want one with a strong metal grid inside.
• Buy a good map before you go. And keep it with you. If you do find your route blocked, you'll have options and if you call someone for assistance, you can understand their directions better. The Athens map provided by the GNTO office at the airport is excellent, and it's free. A paper map is still the best way to orient yourself without endlessly zooming in or out on a small screen and using up what may be precious battery power. Use your cell phone or another device alongside the paper map for detail.
• Take enough medication with you for twice the length of your trip. Pack one amount in your luggage and one in your carry-on. Keep at least a day or two's supply on you in a small pill container.
• Have a color copy of your passport with you and another copy in your luggage, along with extra copies of your itinerary. Email digital copies to an email account you can access via the internet.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier for the American Embassy to locate you in an emergency.
• Learn a few words of Greek and enough of the Greek alphabet to decipher street signs. It can warm your welcome and at the same time, help you stay on your route, which is crucial if you have to make last-minute changes.
• Talk to the Greeks. They likely know what is going on and will be happy to tell you, share their opinions, their politics and their advice. Keep tabs on things by reading English language newspapers, watching the local news station and asking questions at your hotel.

Travel Insurance and Trip Cancellation

If you become aware of unrest in Greek cities or develop concerns, you may decide to cancel your trip. Whether or not your travel insurance covers you if you cancel depends on your policy. Many travel insurers allow a cancellation if there is  civil unrest  in your destination or a region you must travel through. Contact your insurance company directly for details.

Note: If a protest or strike is predicted before you get on your plane, your travel insurance company may refuse to cover your expenses. Make sure you ask if the company excludes any planned incidents. And remember: Independence Day (March 25) and Nov. 17 often see protests in Greece. 

2020 Travel Warnings for Countries in Africa

What Travelers Need to Know About Earthquakes in Greece

Is It Safe in Germany?

Is It Safe in Europe?

Is It Safe in Colombia?

Is It Safe in Africa?

Greece Travel Advisories and Warnings

Is it Safe in France?

Is it Safe in Kashmir?

Is Bangkok Safe?

Is It Safe in South America?

Hurricane Season in Mexico

Avoid these Dangerous Places in Southeast Asia

Travel to Mexican Border Towns From the American Southwest

Is It Safe to Travel to Morocco?

How to Stay Safe on a Trip to the Dominican Republic

• Philippines
• New Zealand
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

Cape Town or Durban: Which South African City to Visit?

Best honeymoon destinations in egypt: 5 romantic places, basic arabic phrases: 40 essential sayings to learn, maldives or seychelles how to choose between two paradises, the 5 cheapest countries to visit from india in 2022, is india a good travel destination 7 reasons we say yes, the 7 warmest places in india, nightlife in india: 9 best party places in goa, sailing down under: the 7 best places to sail in australia, the 7 most venomous snakes in australia to know about, sydney or melbourne: which destination to visit in australia, dangerous animals in australia: 9 species to look out for, is tallinn safe: your safety guide to estonian capital, the 7 most underrated european travel destinations in 2022, why is luxembourg the richest country in the world rags to riches, best water parks in greece: 7 spots for a great day out, the 5 best places to see monkeys in costa rica in 2023, is campeche safe 2022 safety guide for the yucatan peninsula, los angeles or las vegas: which city should you visit, seattle or san francisco: which us city is better, lima vs. quito: 9 things to compare these capital cities, is argentina safe your complete safety guide (2022), is ecuador expensive our ultimate spending guide, is peru expensive: 2022 south america money guide, is athens safe to visit ultimate greek capital safety guide.

Athens used to be just a place to fly into. People would stop off to see the  Acropolis , stay in a cheap hotel for the night, then catch a ferry to one of Greece’s stunning islands; somewhere like  Mykonos, Crete , or  Santorini . But that was then.

Fast forward a few decades, and the city is now a first-choice destination for visitors to Greece. There’s plenty that  makes Athens worth visiting : It’s relatively cheap among European capitals, the food is delicious, and the history is awe-inspiring . But it’s also worth doing a little research before you arrive, to discover the ins and outs of travel here and see is Athens safe for travelers in 2022.

The short answer is yes, but there are caveats. Although some travel blogs like to present Greece’s first city as a den of vice and corruption, it’s easy enough to stay safe in Athens. Still, it’s worth bearing in mind that this is one of the largest cities in southern Europe, and a lived-in and gritty town with lots of people and a whole patchwork of different areas, some less savory than others. Let’s dig a little deeper…

Table of Contents

Is Athens safe to travel to in 2022?

Yes! Athens is visited by a whopping 6.3 million travelers every year. That places it in the top 50 most-visited cities on the planet. Stats like that can’t lie. Things simply wouldn’t be this way if the town was overly dangerous. To put it another way – you don’t get 6.3 million people flocking into Tijuana or Caracas, eh?

Find A Travel Buddy!

The stats bear it out, too. Numbeo – a travel-stat collation site – lists Athens at 101 on the overall global crime index for major cities. Now, if you believe that, it makes the home of the soaring Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus safer than Philadelphia, safer than Cleveland, safer than Houston, not to mention safer than other European travel hotspots like Naples and Nice.

On top of all that, the US State Department lists Greece as a Level 1 travel advisory (that’s the least worrying level, just in case you were wondering), while the UK Foreign Office has no serious restrictions on travel to the city, but does note the high possibility of strikes that can impact the smooth running of municipal services in the town. That’s it.

Of course, this is all a general overview. Dig down and the picture gets a little more nuanced. There are crime issues in Athens just as there are in all major metropolises. Things have been up and down since the financial crash of 2008, which hit Greece very hard. There are some neighborhoods that you’ll probably want to avoid and also some regular tourist scams worth knowing about. Let’s focus in on all that…

Common tourist scams in Athens

Scams against tourists are relatively common in Athens. They’re among the sort of petty crime that’s most likely to have a negative impact on your trip. Prevention by being aware is the key to avoid these, but if you’re caught up in one then be sure to contact the local tourist police. Here’s a look at some of the most common scams that go on in the city:

• The Athenian nun scam – Cashing in (literally) on Athens’ religious zeal is a group of skilled pickpockets who dress as nuns. These “women of God” will amble towards you with an apologetic smile and offer you a small cross for luck, which they will then pin to your t-shirt. Of course, the cross is just a misdirect. They’re really after your wallet, purse, or phone. Avoid these approaches at all costs. A stern “no” is usually enough.
• The fake tourist scam – Small groups of thieves posing as tourists spend the whole day riding the trains in from Athens Airport. Seemingly excited about their trip, they’ll start up a conversation with you, but what they’re really doing is getting you to lower your guard. Their priority is to get useful information from you, such as which hotel you’re staying in or what you do for a living. That way, they can gauge how wealthy you might be, and decide whether to follow you or not. Sometimes they will resort to “Plan B” and simply try to steal your suitcase from the train platform.
• Drink purchase scam – A common scam that happens right across Europe, this happens when someone – usually a female – approaches a person in a bar and asks for a drink. When the bill comes the price of said beverage runs into the thousands of euros.
• What’s the time scam – A scam that used to be common in the rougher parts of Athens but also in the tourist areas involved someone asking the time. When the unsuspecting victim pulls out their phone to check, the assailant grabs the device and runs. This has become less common thanks to better mobile phone tracking capabilities in the last couple of years, but does still happen from time to time.

Is Athens safe to live in?

There are thousands upon thousands of expats currently living and working in the sprawling city of Athens. In fact, the Greek capital has risen to become something of a hub for digital nomad workers in the post-pandemic age – remote-worker destination aggregator NomadList ranks it as the 44 th most popular destination out of 318 in Europe! They also give the city an overall “very safe” rating.

That’s pretty good, and it’s true that Athens isn’t a popular spot for expats for nothing. It offers a high quality of life, good cost-of-living to earnings ratios, and that enthralling cultural side. But it’s not without its issues for those looking to relocate long term…

For starters, there are certain areas that you’ll want to avoid. Most expats look to live in the southern parts of the city, often closer to the beaches of the Athenian Riviera around Vouliagmeni and Glyfada. They quickly learn to avoid Omonoia, Exarchia, and the rundown port areas of Piraeus among others.

Generally, though, crime ratings for this city are better than many places in the USA and it’s generally considered a safe place to live. That said, those looking to buy property, sort residency visas, and other official things should be wary of the bureaucracy and corruption that’s rife in the Greek system (more on that later). It can prove a nightmare in the relocation  process and you’ll need bags and bags of patience!

Corruption in Athens

There’s no hiding from the fact that Greece, at many levels, is a corrupt country.  A recent confidential survey  found that 7% of public officials admitted to accepting  fakelaki  (a slang word for “small envelope”. AKA: bribes), but some estimations put the number closer to 40% in reality. On top of that, leading economists and experts have said that corruption in Greece was among the leading causes of the Greek financial crash of 2007-2008, so there’s no denying that it has extreme real-life consequences on the streets.

Athens, as the epicenter of the Greek political system, is by definition the epicenter of Greek corruption. What’s more, the raw effects of corruption – homelessness, crime, drug crime – are felt more keenly in the blocks of the big city than they are in the idyllic isles of the Aegean. You only need to head to districts like Exarcheia and Omonia to see that.

On the flip side, political and systemic corruption of this kind isn’t really the sort of thing that makes an impact on tourism. Travelers brought 31.8 billion euros into the Greek economy in 2019 and the powers that be are constantly looking to push that number up. A conscious effort is being made to ringfence visitors to the Acropolis and the Plaka from the less-than-savoury behaviour that plagues the government and other institutions here.

Is Athens safe from pickpockets?

Petty theft and pickpocketing are the most significant crimes that tourists face, and there are certain areas where it’s rife. Another thing to watch out for is the  laiki , or farmer’s market. This draws enormous crowds, and it’s pretty easy to get caught in a crush of people, which is a pickpocket’s dream. It’s held in a different neighborhood each day, so just find out where that day’s  laiki  is, then avoid it!  

The Greeks just love their political protests, and they can spring up at a moment’s notice, especially at Syntagma Square. Some protests get pretty rowdy, with attacks against police and damage to property. Pickpockets, however, rush towards these protests, knowing there’s always a few panicky tourists far too distracted to worry about their wallets. For those reasons we’d advise you to keep clear of the Parliament Building, which is where the protests, and occasional riots, mainly occur.

Is Athens safe for solo female travelers?

In general, yes. It’s a sad fact of life that women traveling solo in any country are already aware that they need to take extra precautions. But so long as you maintain your usual levels of awareness, Athens is considered just as safe as most large European cities for a lady traveling solo.

The rate of domestic violence against women in Greece is low, and falling year on year, which is always a good indicator. On top of that, the the Greeks are, at heart, a very warm and friendly people, even if many of the men you meet in Athens will probably come on a bit too strong. Their Mediterranean charm might seem tempting, but a lot are known as  kamaki  (literally a harpoon used to catch a fish), who are serial flirters. 

A bit of flirting at a bar is fine, but be aware that some clubs and bars in Athens, particularly around Glyfada Square, are fronts for organized crime. Police are bribed to turn a blind eye towards crimes that go on in those clubs, including spiked drinks that often lead to far more serious sexual crimes. The solution is quite simple: don’t go to any bars in Glyfada or the rougher parts of the city. If you’re looking to party, there are plenty of great clubs in the Gazi and Monastiraki neighborhoods. Or simply take a ferry to Mykonos or  Kos , and  party on the beach  until sun up! 

Is it safe to use public transport in Athens?

According to the official Athens transport website, the city offers “a large, modern mass transit system to serve the needs of residents and visitors.” To be fair, they’re mostly right: public transport in Athens is affordable, reliable and covers the entire city. Travel is sold in blocks of time (90 minutes for €1.40), and you can use trams, buses and trolleybuses, and the Metro all on the same ticket.

However, once again, pickpocketing is a significant problem. The same website states, “due to several cases of pickpocketing inside the Metro system […] you are advised to be constantly aware of your belongings and your pockets, especially in central stations and inside trains.”  

More worrying is the quality of driving in Athens. Greece has  one of the highest rates of road accidents for any European city , and safety measures like seatbelts and bike helmets are regularly ignored. Motorbikes often take shortcuts across pavements (sidewalks), and red traffic lights are seen more as a polite request than a legal requirement. So be alert, and always use subways or an underpass to cross roads if you have the option.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Athens?

The official answer is yes, and  a 2011 report  presented to the International Conference for Environmental Science found that “the finished water meets the existing sanitary regulations in EEC countries.” However, well aware that figures in official reports can be changed with a few  fakelaki  bribes, most Athenians are wary. So that begs the question: is Athens safe when it comes to drinking water from the tap?

In truth, there are three different reservoir sources for tap water in Athens, and the water quality from each varies tremendously. In addition, roughly half of the pipes carrying water around Athens are made of asbestos, which is now a banned material as it contains elements that may cause cancer. Well over 4,000 miles of pipe needs to be replaced before the water can be guaranteed free of carcinogens. 

The takeaway from this is clear: the water in Athens  might  be OK to drink, but why take the chance? Bottled water is available at every convenience store. It’s cheap and it’s usually super-cold from the fridge (a gift in the hot Greek summer sun). We’d say avoid buying from the roadside guys who keep bottles in a cooler (half the time this is just tap water, kept enticingly cold by packing the cooler with ice). Instead, use the major chain supermarkets or buy at your hotel.

Is Athens safe at night?

Every major city has its “no-go” areas, and Athens is no different. At night, we’d advise you to steer clear of the Monastiraki, Omonia, Psyrri, and Mextaxourghio neighborhoods. These areas are particularly dicey after midnight, but best avoided altogether unless you’re going for a specific reason. 

Most of the nightclubs around Glyfada Square are controlled by organized crime, and illegal drugs are openly sold in certain venues. Although prostitution has been legal in Athens since 2010, there are still many illicit brothels (usually advertised as “studios”) throughout the city. The area around Omonia Square is notorious for these, and a lot of the doormen (allegedly) carry handguns. 

The nightlife hub of Exarcheia might also sound tempting for those on the hunt for rock bars and alt nightclubs, but it’s not the place to flash expensive phones. It’s also known for open drug use and political instability.

Neighborhoods to avoid in Athens

As with all cities in the world, there are two sides to Athens. Most visitors will choose to stay in one of just a handful of areas. They include the Plaka, the most touristy part of the capital that resembles the look and feel of a traditional Greek village, and Monastiraki, a bustling metro interchange that’s got good walking access to the old sights and the new town. We also like areas such as Koukaki (the hipster district just below the Acropolis) and Kolonaki (the place to go for deluxe hotels and living).

There are also some parts of town that you’ll want to be sure to avoid. They include:

• Exarcheia – Exarcheia is a tricky one. Sometimes it’s a downright enthralling, gritty, and edgy art hub with a truly rebellious character. Other times, it’s really unpleasant to be in. Basically, this is the hotbed of Athens’ fringe political movements and there’s a big presence of anarchists around. If you do go to sample the upcoming bars and vintage stores be certain to have your wits about you! Exarcheia is always more dangerous at night, when we’ve even witnessed open drug use on the squares.
• Omonia – Omonia Square sort of marks the northern edge of the Athenian downtown. It’s forever pulsing with traffic, which is reason enough to steer clear if you ask us. Recently, it’s also become something of a hotbed for petty crime and homelessness.
• Pireaus – We’d love to tell you that Athens’s ancient port is a wonderful part of the city, replete with old monuments and seafood tavernas. It’s not, though. It’s a raucous, semi-industrial mass of harbors and streets that’s not all that pleasant to be in. Pickpockets and taxi scams are also particularly common in the area.
• Vathi – Not all that bad, though there are heightened crime rates in this part of the new town. The main thing about Vathi is that workshops and repair shops open onto the street, lending it a bit of an industrial air.

Top 7 Athens safety tips (plus one top tourist hack!)

• Take out a travel insurance policy. The number of people who go on vacation without travel insurance is staggering, and they only have themselves to blame when something valuable goes missing.
• Get yourself a  money belt.  OK, they might not be the coolest fashion accessory, but it’s been proven they’re the best way to keep cash and credit cards safe from pickpockets. Some of them are so secure that they come with $750 theft insurance included!  
• Avoid conspicuous signs of wealth, and that includes taking pictures with your expensive phone. If you plan to be in Athens for a while, it might be worth using a cheap phone that you can afford to lose.
• Only ever use licensed, metered taxis, and double-check the route using a map app on your phone. If the taxi goes too far off course, then invent an excuse, pay what’s on the meter, and find a different taxi. 
• The Greeks drink frappé like water, which is fine because they’re used to it ( and they invented it !) But it’s very strong, and more than one might give you the shakes. As for too much Retsina: we’ll let you decide for yourself if the guaranteed headache is worth it!
• Don’t buy counterfeit goods, such as sports shoes or handbags, from the sidewalk sellers. Buying anything from these ‘street hawkers’ is against the law, and you could be fined or even arrested.
• There’s been an increase in card skimming at ATMs throughout Athens, and it’s hard to tell which machines remain unaffected. Be smart and only use ATMs in reputable hotels or banks that require card entry.

(And here’s the hack…) At the end of a metro trip, put on some “obvious” headphones. You don’t have to listen to anything, but you’ll stop the constant barrage of drivers shouting “Taxi, Taxi, Taxi!” at you as soon as you walk out of the station. Try it once, and you’ll thank us!

So, is Athens safe to visit? Our conclusion

The general answer is yes. Over 6.3 million people come to see the ancient treasures and taste their way through the plate-smashing tavernas of this bucket-list city each year. The vast majority of those trips happen without a single hitch, making Athens pretty safe for visitors. On top of that, the town is ranked as safer than many cities in the USA and there are no lasting FCO or State Department warnings in place.

We would say that there are certain tourist scams in Athens to know about, and some neighborhoods that are probably worth avoiding all together. You should also be extra vigilant against pickpockets and petty crime here, as that tends to be the major worry for travelers to the home of the Acropolis.

Destinations

• North America
• South America
• Group Tours
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

© 2022 Journeying The Globe. All Rights Reserved.

Got a Travel Question?

Ask questions, get inspired, and plan your next adventure with us! Join our free Facebook group for travelers and connect with a global network of passionate explorers.

JOIN FOR FREE

Yes, Athens is Safe. Tips for a Memorable (and Safe) Visit

G R E E C E

Make the most of your time in this magnificent city

There may be affiliate links within this post which provide me with a commission, at no cost to you. This is a way to help me to provide valuable content. More information at: Privacy & Disclosure .

I recently traveled solo to Athens, Greece, and safety for women travelers to Athens was among my concerns – along with where to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and how to get the most out of a visit to the spectacular Athens’ Acropolis.

I visited Greece in May of 2022 and enjoyed a fabulous week-long sailing trip to the Saronic Islands near Athens.

But I was on my own in Athens for one night before the trip, and two nights after. I had heard that Athens was an incredible city and that one day and night wouldn’t be enough. I am so glad I stayed 3-days in Athens; it  exceeded my expectations in every way, and yes, I felt very safe and walked extensively around the city on my own. I would have happily stayed longer.

Exploring cities solo is something I really enjoy.  I  am sharing tips for navigating Athens safely, and making the most of your time in this stunning capital, rich with culture, ancient history, welcoming people, and scrumptious food.

Is Athens Safe?

Europe is generally very safe for tourists, and solo women travelers, with theft and pickpocketing the most likely problem visitors will encounter. According to recent data of crime rates across Europe’s largest cities, Athens is safer than many of its contemporaries – it’s statistically safer than Rome, Paris, Dublin, Brussels and Hamburg. And all of those cities are considered “safe for tourists” with crime rates low.  

Athens can certainly be a little rough looking in places, there’s lots of graffitti, or street art, depending on your perspective, but violent crime is rare.  That said, it’s important to stay vigilant with regards to your possessions, especially in popular tourist areas and when riding the Athens’ Metro. Pickpocketing is common in Athens, as with other European cities. And of course women should be cautious after dark in any city. When traveling solo, I avoid going to places that don’t have lots of other tourists around. I did the same in Athens. 

Athens Safety Tip : Keep valuables and handbags secure, and be careful about waving your phone around or leaving it on a cafe table next to a busy pedestrian traffic area, where a passerby could easily grab it. 

Arriving in Athens - Airport to City

Welcome pickups athens.

I’ve learned that when you arrive in a new place after a a long flight, it’s very nice to have someone waiting in the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. I  had traveled from the U.S. and booked my airport transfer with Welcome Pickups , which allowed me the comfort of knowing my transfer was set. It was my first time using Welcome Pickups and I was very happy with it. My driver was indeed waiting when I arrived, helped me with my luggage. His taxi was parked just outside the airport. (He was also a taxi driver.) 

A Welcome Pickups booking is made online with a credit card so I didn’t have to worry about cash in the local currency. And Welcome Pickups will monitor your flight and know if it’s early or delayed. Email and phone support is available 24/7. Current prices to Athens City Center are € 43 during the day and  € 58 between 11 pm and 5 am. 

You can get a taxi at the Athens airport for 3 euros less: the fare is €40 from 5 am to midnight, and €55 from midnight to 5 am. I have had people tell me that when they arrived in summer, the wait for a taxi was 45 minutes or more – something to keep in mind. TIP:  I’ve heard it’s wise to be sure that your driver starts the meter. 

Learn more about Welcome Pickups and Athens Airport Transportation. 

On a tight budget? Greece has a very good public transit system and taking the Metro is a budget-friendly option from the airport. Athens’ Metro Line 3 connects the airport to the city centre (Syntagma Square), and trains run every 30 minutes, 7 days a week from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm. One-way tickets cost €9 (€4.50 for children, teenagers, and 65+).

Safety in Athens - Where to Stay

The most popular areas to stay while in Athens are all considered safe – these include the Plaka, Kolonaki, Monostiraki, or Syntagma Square where the highly-rated and  popular Hotel Grand Bretagne is located .

The Plaka neighborhood, which was the original city at the base of the Acropolis, is a pedestrian-only neighborhood with cobblestone streets and a charming village feel. Apparently, It is also called the “neighborhood of gods” because of the archaeological sites and proximity to the Acropolis. It is interspersed with Ancient Greek and Roman ruins. That said it is crowded and noisy, a true hub of activity with people around day and night. 

I stayed my first night in Greece in the Monastiraki area, and the other two nights in Kolonaki. When I am traveling solo, a location that positions me to be able to walk around on my own is preferable to a hotel with fancy rooms or amenities. I walked extensively in Athens, day and evening, and always felt safe.

In Monastiraki I stayed   at the Attalos Hotel , a 3-star accommodation with a great location, a short walk from the bustling Monastiraki Square. 

Rooms were simple but clean and very comfortable. What a pleasant surprise it was to walk out to the balcony and see the Acropolis in the distance. The rooftop patio also offered great views. The only downside was a small shower. I was able to manage, but it would be tight for some people.  The staff spoke great English and were very helpful answering all of my initial questions, regarding directions, local bank machines etc.

At the end of my trip, I spent two nights in the Kolonaki neighborhood, at the Periscope, Athens, a 4-star boutique hotel with 22 rooms. It was modern, stylish, and filled with art. I found the staff welcoming and helpful and appreciated the all-day snacks and drinks in the lobby. It was also double the price of the Attalos. Overall, Athens hotels were very affordable compared to hotels in other large European cities. 

Comparing the two neighborhoods, Kolonaki was definitely quieter and Monastiraki was more lively, and a little more centrally located. Kolonaki had upscale shops and felt more residential as well. I think if I was there longer, I would return to Kolonaki over Monastiraki. The Plaka neighborhood is also a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of it all. It is noisy, however.  

First Night in Athens

For your first night in Athens, I highly recommend taking a guided walking tour such as a history walk or Athens food tour. I love to do this in a new city when I’m on my own. A guide can answer questions and acquaint you with the city. You can also pick up tips for making the most of your visit. 

Athens has an interesting program called “Athens with a Local,” free guided experiences. You choose the theme of you walk – choices include getting to know a specific neighborhood, or an architecture tour or food walk.  Find out more at Athens Walks with a Local. Remember that if you enjoy your experience on a free tour, it’s customary to tip your guide well. 

For my first night, I explored Athens on a tour I booked through Athens Food on Foot . It was a three-hour city tour that ended with a delicious dinner hosted by our guide,  Penelope Triantafyllidou.  She took us to one of her favorite restaurants, Ella Cafe, and took the guesswork out of ordering; everything she suggested was fantastic! 

Penelope was an absolute delight to spend time with. In addition to being an expert o Greek cuisine, she’s a former field archeologist with Greece’s Ministry of Culture. Six years ago she became a tour guide because she wanted to share her love of Greece with visitors. Penelope offers customized tours, from a couple of hours to multiple days. If interested in arranging a tour you can email Penelope at: [email protected]

Please tell her Midlife Globetrotter sent you 🙂 

I was able to ask Penelope many questions during our evening together and did ask how safe she considered Athens, and what to keep in mind as a solo woman traveler in Athens. She reassured me it was very safe to walk around central Athens on my own, day and evening, including the National Gardens.

Siteseeing Solo in Athens

My favorite way to explore European cities is on foot, and although Athens is a sprawling city, central Athens is compact. Everything I wanted to see was within a 30-minute stroll of the hotels I stayed in. After my first evening with Penelope, I felt comfortable exploring the city on my own. 

If you are nervous about being out in the evenings on your own, I recommend evening tours/dinners with a guide or dining close to your hotel. It is another reason that having a centrally located hotel is great – there will be good restauarnts within walking distance. 

I explored several areas on my own, including the Athens Acropolis and the Plaka. I walked one day from the neighborhood of Kolonaki to the National Archaeological Museum which I highly recommend. It has the world’s best collection of ancient Greek art, spanning 7000 BCE to 500 CE.

Seeing the Acropolis - Do You Need a Guide?

The Acropolis or “city on a hill’ is considered the most significant ancient sight in the western world and is absolutely worth visiting. It is stunning, especially at sunset.

It is easy to see on your own, which I did on my trip.  Of course, you can join a guided tour to see the Acropolis. GetYourGuide has many tour options or if you would like a private guide, consider hiring Penelope, the guide I used.  

If you are on a budget and prefer to explore on your own, as I did, I have a great tip. Download the Rick Steves App and listen to his Acropolis walking tour which lasts about 2 hours and gives you lot of great info and context about what you are seeing. I used it for other walks I did on my own in Athens as well. 

Depending where you are staying, the Acropolis should be within walking distance of your hotel. From Kolonaki, it took me about 30 minutes. In warm weather, I recommend visiting early or late as it is less crowded and less hot. 

Seeing the Parthenon in Athens

The crown jewel of the Athens Acropolis is the Parthenon. It served as a temple for Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. A massive gold-and-ivory statue of her was installed inside when it was finished, although is no longer there.   It also served as the treasury in Ancient Athens.

Its genius design seems be the reason its withstood many earthquakes. Kudos to its astounding architects: Ictinus and Callicrates, and to the sculptor Phidias. ( A separate story with tips for exploring the Acropolis is coming soon ).

Although perpetually partially covered by scaffolding, there is no question that seeing the Acropolis should be a part of every visit to Athens. It is a safe area to walk to, from the popular tourist areas. There are so many people everywhere, you should feel quite comfortable. Again, if its crowded when you go, your biggest concern is keeping your belongings secure.

Getting Around Athens

Athens was always known for its ancient monuments, but in the past, also for terrible traffic and air quality. Investment in the city’s infrastructure has changed that. Pedestrian-only areas and a great metro/transportation system have reduced traffic and made it much more enjoyable to walk around.

As I said, I mostly walked. But I also took a short trip on the Athens metro, although with a group at that time. It seemed very easy to use, and was clean and modern. Rather than going into further detail about that here, you can learn everything you need to know at Athen’s official tourism website: This is Athens: Getting Around.

5 Reasons Why Athens Is More Than a Stopover

• Athens is a living museum. Much like Rome, ancient monuments are scattered around the city – you turn a corner and happen upon them. And the incredible Acropolis, “city on a hill” is worth the trip alone.
• The hospitality of Greeks is well known; I found everyone to be friendly and helpful. English was widely spoken, making it easy for a tourist who could count her Greek vocabulary on one hand.
• Athens has wonderful energy, nightlife, and many interesting small businesses. I read that the economic crisis, and resulting job loss, actually led many young people to start businesses. Athens is filled with rooftops for dining with a view of the Acropolis, very pretty at night. 
• The food is incredible, and I loved the focus on seafood, salads, and vegetables, like greens and eggplant (both were in season when I visited) Then there’s the spinach pie and deep-friend cheese. 
• And it’s all so affordable! I found it cheaper than Rome, Paris or Madrid.

I hope I have reassured you that Athens is a very safe city to explore, whether or not you’re traveling solo, and that you should stay a few days if you can. As with travel in any large city, it’s important to take sensible precautions to protect your belongings, especially in crowded areas and when taking public transit.

After three days, I wasn’t wondering, “Is Athens Safe”, but rather when I would have the chance to return to this marvelous Greek capital. 

Join Midlife Globetrotter. Receive a monthly newsletter with travel ideas for women, planning tips, midlife stories and living-well inspiration!

More Greece!

Planning a trip to Greece? You might enjoy this article about my sailing trip in Greece's Saronic Gulf.

Island Hopping in Greece

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

FOR UPDATES & MIDLIFE INSPIRATION

Please check your email for confirmation. 

I’m glad you’re here. Can we talk about midlife? I reached my late 40’s, realized my kids were growing up, and adventure began calling in a new way: big travel adventures as well as everyday ones. I want Midlife Globetrotter to be a place where we explore how to add a sense of fun, freedom and meaning to these precious years. Let’s celebrate how far we’ve come, and all that’s ahead.

LET'S CONNECT!

• Destinations
• Travel Planning
• Solo Travel
• Make Travel Matter

More to Explore

Where to Get the Best View of the Eiffel Tower

Cambodia’s Tonlé Sap Lake & Floating Villages

Traditional Cyprus Foods on a Mediterranean Adventure

Best Paris Croissants

Hidden Gems in Paris

Women’s Tours Around the World

Quick links.

• [email protected]

© COPYRIGHT Midlife Globetrotter 2020-2024

Privacy & Disclosures

Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to Athens, one of the world's most storied cities © Lisa Schaetzle / Getty Images

Founded in 508 BCE, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and it's regularly touted as one of the Mediterranean’s best capital cities to visit. From the iconic Parthenon and the unique street art rivaling that of Berlin  to the city's glittering coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this ancient capital. 

One thing’s for sure: whether you’re into architecture, mythology, ancient sites, modern art or simply relaxing by the beach, Athens has something for everyone.

When should I go to Athens?

Greece generally attracts most people during the summer months (June to August) and Athens is no different, but we recommend visiting in the spring and autumn to avoid the heat. These shoulder seasons – March to May and September to October – offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable travel experience overall. It’s also worth remembering that Athens is a humid place thanks to its coastline, which creates humid heat in the summer and gives the winter cold an extra chill. Consider this when packing and bring layers for all seasons.

Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls in April or May and the run-up to it, plus the event itself, is a huge celebration in the Greek calendar – even more so than Christmas. Expect street carnivals to mark the end of Lent and street processions to the various neighborhood churches on the Easter weekend, culminating in Mass and a huge meal on the Easter Sunday with a lamb on the spit. 

Restaurant prices won’t change much throughout the year, but accommodation prices do vary.  The same four-star hotel located near the Acropolis could be €140 per night in March and jump up to €320 in June for a weekend date, with Easter time seeing similar price rises.  It’s often cheaper to book directly, and hotels generally only publish their prices about two to three months in advance. 

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Many Europeans come to Athens for a weekend break, and long-haul travelers often use the city as as a stopover on the way to the Greek islands. 

You can get an initial taste of the city in two days, but we recommend a longer stay to truly understand the essence of this ancient capital. With four days, you can spend a day and a half at the capital’s famous sights, spend an afternoon wandering its neighborhoods , and still have time time to explore the beaches and ancient ruins of the Athenian coastline for a day or two.

Is it easy to get in and around Athens?

Located at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Greece (and Athens in particular) attracts many tourists, which means the travel infrastructure is well developed and easy to use. Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive – or a 45-minute metro ride – from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. 

Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus , which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km (6 miles) from the city center. Piraeus is well linked to both the center (20 minutes by metro) and airport (a 24-hour bus service that takes about 90 minutes).

Public transport around Athens itself is easy, accessible and affordable, with a single ticket valid for a 90-minute journey and costing a mere €1.20. There is also a range of ticket deals, including  tourist passes lasting three and five days. 

The four modes of transport in Athens are:

• the very clean metro system . Note: no food is allowed.
• the overground train that connects the center to Piraeus port and other mainland destinations.
• an extensive network of  buses and electric trolleys . These primarily run to urban neighborhoods beyond the touristic center. 
• a tram service that connects the city center to the Athens coast and its beaches in about an hour.

After you’ve gotten yourself from the airport to the city center, most of Athens’s popular sights sit within a compact, walkable area. Just be aware of the traffic – cars don’t always immediately stop at red lights, and motorbikes occasionally mount the sidewalk to park.

Top things to do in Athens

Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the  Parthenon , Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum , which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.

Ancient artifacts crop up all over the city in random places, too; the metro stations of Monastiraki, Akropoli and Syntagma are like mini museums in their own right, and there's even ruins of a Roman tomb in a glassed-off area of the Zara clothing store on the shopping street of Ermou.

If it’s shopping you’re into, pedestrianized Ermou St is the place to go. It runs for nearly a mile from the Acropolis area up to Parliament in Syntagma Square, and features tons of fashion brands such as Mac, Desigual and the aforementioned Zara, plus a huge H&M. Greece’s main department store, Attica, is also here, and it's a great place to stock up with your holiday essentials. 

Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens ? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden  next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , or make your way to  Filopappou Hill /Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.

My favorite thing to do in Athens

As an aficionado of street art, I love exploring the burgeoning street art scene here and getting to know the various neighborhoods where it proliferates. Take in the famous Praying Hands Mural just off Omonia Sq, for example, which depicts Jesus praying for the people down on Earth – a play on Albrecht Dürer’s Praying Hands (1508).

I also love wandering around the hidden village of Anafiotika , which sits beneath the northeast side of the Acropolis. A sub-district of Plaka, it was built in the mid-1800s when King Otto brought in workers from the Greek island of Anafi to construct his palace. Homesick, the workers set about making their neighborhood a replica of their homeland, building white, sugar-cubed houses with flat stone roofs and brightly painted wooden doors and shutters, like those found in the Cyclades. Pink and white bougainvilleas wind their way up these buildings, several of which have roof gardens. 

Anafiotika is a bit difficult to find, but worth the effort. Start at the Acropolis main entrance, and walk to your left along the path; keep the monument to your right until you reach the Church of Metamorphosis. Continue straight past the church and follow the wider path up a steep hill. The path turns right and runs into stairs – this is the start of the island village.

How much money do I need for Athens?

Athens isn’t an expensive place to visit compared to other European destinations, especially outside of the high summer season when prices rise significantly.

• Hostel dorm room: approx. €26 per night
• Basic room for two: €36–128, depending of style of hotel and location
• Self-catering apartment: €65 per day
• Public transport ticket: €1.20 for a 90-minute journey, €10 from the airport, €4.10 for a day pass, €20 for a three-day pass including one airport journey, €8.10 for a five-day pass (not including airport)
• Coffee: €2–2.50
• Typical Greek gyros with salad and fries: €2–3
• Dinner for two: €30 (add €2.50 for beer or wine)
• Beer at a pub: €2.50+

What do I need to know before going to Athens?

Bring layers, no matter the season 

As Athens is located on the coast, it’s sticky in the summer and quite chilly in the spring, fall and winter evenings. Layers are always a good idea: think T-shirts, light sweaters and a jacket for the cooler months. For the really hot summer months, bring a sports cooling towel to wrap around your neck to cool off as you explore.

Be aware of your belongings on the metro

As with any capital or big city, pickpockets can take advantage of large tourist crowds, especially on crowded public transport. Avoid hanging large cameras around your neck and keep your backpack in front of you. You may also want to invest in a hanging cord for your cell phone to loop across your body so it can’t be snatched from your hands.

No flushing toilet paper!

The plumbing in Athens is antiquated and the pipes tend to be very narrow. Flushing paper down the toilet will clog things up, so you’ll always find a bin with bag inside it in the bathroom for you to place toilet paper inside. This is removed daily by housekeeping.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

The German food scene has changed in recent years, with lighter dishes and more variety alongside Bavarian favorites. Here's what you should try.

Apr 27, 2024 • 17 min read

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Is Athens Safe? 10 Tips to Stay Safe in Athens, Greece

I adore Athens. I think far too many travelers come here and leave quickly, just doing the most important sites. But I actually love just hanging out here, getting coffee at Coffee Island, and walking around Monastiraki or Omonia. Yet, Athens does have a big city feel to it (though the population is smaller than you might think). So I understand why so many travelers coming here want to know, “is Athens safe?”

Yes, you can safely travel to Athens (or anywhere in the Balkans ). But there is some common sense travel safety that you should practice when you travel anywhere, and Athens is no exception. So here are some important facts you should know about Athens safety and tips for staying safe here. 

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

>> Read Next: Athens or Thessaloniki: Which Mainland Greece City is Right For You? <<

Where to Stay in Athens

If this is your first trip to Athens, figuring out where to stay in the city can be a bit intimidating. Because of the location of the Acropolis, it really matters which neighborhood you choose to stay in, especially if you’re looking for Acropolis views, easy access to the metro, and good value for your money.

For our hotel recommendations, Generally, budget means hostel beds for around $30 a night and singles/doubles for around $50, mid-range is from about $50-100 per night, and luxury will cost over $100 per night. However, note that availability, time of year, and how much in advance you book will play a role in how much accommodations cost in Athens.

Budget:  If you want a hostel dorm bed in the heart of Psyri, check out the Acropolis Hostel. This basic-yet-clean hostel boasts what very few in the world can: Acropolis views from its communal terrace. You’ll enjoy having access to an elevator (no lugging your bag all the way up to your room), and you can enjoy the lively neighborhood atmosphere and come home when you want since the hostel has no curfew. 

Check out reviews, pictures, prices, and availability here .

Mid-Range:  For my most recent trip to Athens, we stayed in a couple of different places, but my favorite was the  Ares Athens Hotel   off of Omonia Square. I loved its location, close to Omonia station, across the street from a Coffee Island (my personal version of Heaven), and with views of Mount Lycabettus. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and each room has a private terrace. 

Luxury:  If you are a traveler who loves having stunning hotel views, book a stay at  A for Athens,  a boutique hotel in Psyri that has what is considered by many to be the best rooftop bar in the city. You can also enjoy Acropolis views from the panoramic terrace during breakfast, You can even get amazing Acropolis and Parthenon views from some of the rooms. This hotel is Instagram crack. 

Check out prices, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Don’t see a hotel that’s the right pick for you? Check out our complete  Athens Neighborhood and Hotel Guide.

We also have a complete guide to  where to stay in Athens , plus a separate post for those looking for the  best hotels with Acropolis views .

Is Athens Safe? 5 Things to Know about Crime in Athens

Here are five facts about the current state of crime in Athens that you should be aware of. I address how to protect yourself in the next section. So while these things exist, there are things you can do. Being aware of them is the first step.

Tourist Scams are Alive & Well

According to the Greece 2018 Crime & Safety Report :

Street crimes (pickpocketing, purse snatchings, mobile phone theft, other crimes of opportunity) continue to be common. The majority of these cases occur within the popular tourist areas and on the Metro system (rail and bus). Many of the incidents involve multiple perpetrators using various methods to distract their victims.

>> Read Next: One Day In Athens Itinerary: The Ultimate Athens Guide In 24 Hours <<

Reported Sexual Assault is Low for the Population Size

There were 157 cases of rape reported to the Athens police in all of 2017. Of course, sexual assault is heinously underreported worldwide, and travelers should still be vigilant in situations that pose a higher risk for sexual assault. 

Crime increases in Omonia, Syntagma, and Exarchia during Protests

Greeks love a political protest. Stay away from Omonia, Syntagma, and Exarchia during political protests since these areas see violence and pickpocketing increase when the tensions rise and the crowds grow. 

Easter Festivities can Involve Illegal Fireworks

This one is pretty unique to Greece. According to the Greece 2018 Crime & Safety Report :

Visitors during Easter are strongly urged to exercise caution when attending the celebrations that occur at midnight on Holy Saturday. Festivities normally involved the large scale use of fireworks, some of which are homemade and illegal. There have been incidents in which spectators have suffered severe, sometimes fatal, injuries.

The Terrorism Threat in Athens is Medium

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Athens as being a MEDIUM -threat location for terrorist activity. There haven’t been incidents aimed at tourists, but if a terrorist incident happens in a public place a tourist could be involved. There are one or two small terrorism incidents in Athens every year, but they are typically aimed at politicians and international officials. 

So is Athens safe? 

Yes, I think Athens is as safe as any other large city of its size. Tourists are at risk of the kinds of crime specifically aimed at tourists, like pickpockets, tourist scams, etc. This is the same as any other city that receives a lot of tourists. 

>> Read Next: 7 Things to Know About Tipping in Greece for a Stress-Free Trip <<

10 Common Sense Athens Safety Tips

So Athens is safe, but you still have to use common sense because no place is one hundred percent safe at all times.

1. Know what to do if something goes wrong.

Having a plan for what to do if there’s a problem is the first step in making sure that you stay safe since you can take immediate action in case of an emergency. 

The main phone number for emergency services in English is 112. If you are a victim of a crime, the central police phone number is 100. The Athens tourism police can be reached by dialing 1571. For incidents believed to be racially motivated, please contact 11414.

However, if you feel you’re the victim of harassment by the police, then you should reach out to your embassy. For Americans, this is American Citizen Services at +30-210-720-2414. For after-hours, weekends, and holidays, call the Embassy Receptionist at +30-210-720-2490.

2. Have your travel insurance information handy.

Since you’re a smart, safety-first kind of traveler, you know it’s a good idea to get a travel insurance policy before you leave for your trip.

But what do you do with it once you have it? First, it’s a good idea to have easy access to your policy information so you can make a claim if needed. You can also give the policy info to an emergency contact who’s not traveling with you. In a worst-case scenario, they can access the benefits to help you if you’re unconscious.

Something no one likes to think about:  In an absolute worst-case, your family can use the policy to have your remains repatriated (provided this is part of your coverage, obviously. I look for policies that include this). No one likes to think about this stuff, but it would be worse if something happened and then your family had to figure out what to do.

Of course, the most likely scenario is you have travel insurance and everything goes right on your trip. That would be awesome. You’d have peace of mind while you travel but you wouldn’t need to deal with anything. 

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip. <<

>> Read Next: The 3 Best Greek Islands Near Athens & How to See Them in One Day <<

3. Keep Your Money Safe

The safest way to travel in Athens is to use your credit cards and debit cards whenever possible. You can get cash out from ATMs, which have a better exchange rate than the money exchanges. Try to only take out the cash you need for a few days.

Make sure you use official ATMs. Stay away from the ATMs in nightclubs or other ones that look disconnected from a business. These can be scams. I prefer to always use an ATM connected to a bank. 

Never flash your cash when out in public. I like to put a twenty or a ten in a separate pocket so I don’t have to get out all of my cash when I need to buy something.

I also like to have a coin purse so I can just get out my Euro coins when I want to buy something small. No one but you should be aware that you have more than twenty Euros on you.

Don’t keep all your cards and cash in one place. Split them between your person and your hotel room. While it’s a small possibility that you will be mugged or your hotel room robbed, both are REALLY unlikely to happen on the same day.

The safest thing to do is keep your money in two different places so if something goes wrong in one place, your money is safe in the other. 

4. Have a hard copy of your card numbers, phone numbers, and your passport

If something does go wrong and your cards and passport get stolen, you need to be able to get them replaced. Have a hard copy in case your phone also gets stolen.

This way you can call your banks, your embassy, and then your travel insurance company to get everything replaced without needing access to the internet.  

5. Enroll in your government’s safety traveler programs

If your country has a program for traveler safety, enroll in it. I am enrolled in STEP, which stands for  Safety Traveler Enrollment Program.  This is an American program that allows me to tell the State Department my travel plans. In return, they email me if something happens on the ground (like a political protest) or another incident. 

I didn’t enroll in this program for Greece, but I did for my trip to Tunisia because protests were happening in the capital. However, it’s completely free and a great resource for American travelers, so you can use it for any trip abroad.

I’m not sure which countries have similar programs, so you should check yours if you are not an American.

>> Read Next: Planning a Trip to Greece: Your Travel Checklist <<

6. Think anti-theft

I use a special personal bag for my day bag that has anti-theft features like RFID technology, complicated zippers, and extra clasps. It’s not 100% theft-proof — nothing is — but it does make it a lot more difficult for a pickpocket to get to my wallet and passport.

It’s called the  Pacsafe Citysafe , and I’m a little obsessed with it. Pacsafe also makes smaller bags that look like traditional purses, but are packed with TONS of safety features, but this is our favorite. 

If you keep your wallet tucked into the appropriate pocket, don’t flash your cash, and keep your bag closed, as this will be much harder for someone to pick your pocket.

7. Don’t leave your stuff unattended

It’s tempting to leave your bag a few feet from you or your cell phone casually on the table. But try not to ever be in a situation where someone could run up and grab your stuff. I like to sit with my bag wrapped around my chair leg when I’m sitting outside. 

You can’t be one hundred percent theft-proof out in public. But your goal is to look like the person who would be the most difficult to rob so that pickpockets and petty thieves move on to easier targets. 

8. Pay attention to your surroundings

I once stopped a guy from pickpocketing me in Milan because I saw him reaching for my bag out of the corner of my eye. Keep your head on and pay attention whenever you’re out in public. Don’t get lost in your phone on taxi rides and only sleep in the taxi if there’s at least one other person traveling with you who can pay attention.

>> Looking for a convenient and safe way to visit the most crowded spot in Athens, the acropolis? Why not join a guided tour like this one ? <<

9. Be cautious at night or when drinking

A common scam in Athens is for people to invite you into their taverns, and then overcharge you for drinks you might not even have bought. So you need to be cautious at night before you even start drinking!

Of course, once you’ve had a few drinks you need to be even more cautious. Never leave your drinks unattended. If you’ve had too much to drink, don’t walk back to your accommodations even if they’re close. Instead, take a taxi home (though ordering it with a taxi app like TaxiMe or BeatTaxi is best to avoid taxi scams).

10. Women need to be extra cautious because the world sucks

Yes, sexual assault in Athens is low, but female travelers should still be cautious, especially in scenarios where alcohol is involved. Use the same caution you would to protect yourself at home. 

More Greece Travel Resources

Headed to Greece? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to  planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a  Balkan currency guide  that explains how money works in Greece and local tipping customs.

If you are still trying to figure out your itinerary, check out our guides on  where to go in Greece  and when is the  best time to visit. 

If you’ll be spending time in Athens, check out our  Athens Instagram Guide , the best Athens day trips , and our complete  Athens hotel guide.

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our  Greece  and  Balkan  travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Finally, Make Sure You Come to Athens with Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that it’s a good idea to have  travel insurance  for traveling in Greece, the Balkans, or anywhere in the world! (Of course, you are, because I already talked about it in this post, but I digress).

Allison and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption. 

While we hope we’ve made it clear that Athens is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel like theft or injury, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin this Safety Guide to Visit Athens with Total Peace of Mind!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

Related posts

Submit a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

Is Athens safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Athens is the Greek capital and also its biggest city. Considered to be the birthplace of Western civilization , it is home to countless famous landmarks like the incredible Pantheon temple and the Ancient Agora of Athens. You can further explore its rich history in the city's many museums, like the Acropolis Museum or the National Archaeological Museum. Some of these sites are thousands of years old, and Athens is truly unlike any other city.

In total, the city is home to just over 3 million people and around 6.3 million foreign tourists visit Athens each year. The city's high season for tourism is in the summer since that is when the weather is nicest. During those times you'll find plenty of people enjoying the great outdoors and sightseeing at all of Athens' wonders.

When spending time in a big city you'll need to keep an eye on your belongings around busy areas. This is why trusting your things to an Athens suitcase facility is a good idea. Doing so is easy and convenient with Bounce. Take advantage of the online app and storage locations found all over the city.

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

Is Athens safe to visit right now?

Traveling is very exciting, but before you take off on a plane you should research the country that you're heading to. Greece itself is quite a safe place with a Global Peace Index rating of 66, so in general, you'll be safe here. Right now there is no risk of traveling to Greece as no advisories are in place, although you should see if the government in your home country has any travel restrictions.

The violent crime rate in Athens is very low, especially towards tourists, but non-locals do face other threats like pickpocketing and scams. These two petty crimes are common in this city since it is a popular travel location, but with common sense and preparation, you can still have a safe and exciting trip here. Below we'll outline all of the tips and tricks that you can use to protect yourself and your valuables. No safety guide is perfect so please do additional research whether you travel a lot or not.

Top petty crimes and scams in Athens affecting tourists

Preparation is key when you're exploring any new city, and just knowing about a potential petty crime can make it less of a threat for you since you'll know what to look out for. Here are a few that you could encounter in Athens.

Tourist scams are common in any large city, and they are especially present in Athens because of its popularity. Chances are that you'll encounter a scammer at some point during your trip, but it can sometimes be hard to tell who is trying to trick you and who is being genuine. Never trust a stranger with your luggage, even if they are pretending to be friendly and helpful, as they might steal your things or overcharge you for their help. This usually happens around popular tourist attractions and also in bars.

Petty theft and pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is a high risk for people visiting Athens, and pickpockets are active around top tourist sites and on public transport. In some cases, the pickpockets are so skilled that they might grab your wallet, passport or smartphone without you even noticing, but street crimes like purse snatching can also occur. The most effective way to protect your items is to keep your valuables safe at your accommodation. To protect the items you're carrying, pay attention to your surroundings and hang on tight to bags and purses when you're in busy areas. In densely populated places you may want to wear your backpack in front of you where you can see it clearly.

Fake taxi scams

Another common scam that tourists encounter has to do with taxis. In some cases, scammers will pose as taxi drivers and after driving you to your destination they will overcharge you. The best way to avoid being this crime is to make sure that you're entering a legitimate taxi, and don't get into just any car that offers to pick you up. As well, make sure the meter is running as soon as the trip begins. If you ever find that you've been overcharged, take note of the license plate and bring the information to the tourist police along with the receipt. They may be able to help you out.

Is Athens safe to travel alone

In general, someone who is traveling alone will always need to be a bit more careful than people who are vacationing as a group. Just make sure that you pay attention when you're touring around alone, especially at night. The good news is that Athens is a very safe city, even for solo travelers. As long as you take normal precautions and keep an eye on your personal belongings then you'll have no risk to your safety.

Sometimes vacationing alone is more dangerous for a solo female traveler than a man, but you'll find Athens safe and welcoming for everyone. Women travelers will be fine exploring most of the city on their own. We've compiled data and ranked Athens 15th on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index , so overall, solo female travelers can have a great trip here!

Safest neighborhoods in Athens

While exploring Athens you'll have the choice from a wide range of neighborhoods to discover, and although each one offers something new there are some that are safer than others.

As you explore Athens make sure that you spend some time in Kolononaki. This neighborhood is very safe and is filled with fantastic restaurants and art galleries.

Metaxourgio

After some gentrification, the area of Metaxourgio is now safe for tourists. It has some nice street art, so don't miss out on the incredible displays.

Want to get a taste of real Athens? Safe and full of culture, the neighborhood of Plaka is the perfect place to go. You'll find plenty of cute cafes here, too.

Athens is not a dangerous city but, like every major city, it has some places with street crime. We recommend that you steer clear of Filopappou Hill after dark as well as Vathi Square.

Is Athens public transportation safe?

To get between central Athens and the rest of the city you'll most likely need to drive yourself or use the transit network to get around since some attractions are not within walking distance from one another. It is recommended to not rent a car if you don't have to since there are sometimes reckless drivers in the Athens city center. As for public transit, remember to be on the lookout for the taxi scams that we mentioned above, especially around the Athens international airport.

Just like in other European cities, pickpockets often strike on public transit. Be extra careful when using the metro system or buses since it is easier for pickpockets to steal your things in crowded areas.

Important emergency numbers in Athens

Although everyone hopes for a trouble-free vacation you never know what could happen. If something happens during your time in Athens, Greece you can contact their emergency services for help. Here are some important numbers to keep in mind, and keep note of your home country's embassy number when traveling.

• Emergency: 112
• Police: 100
• Fire Department: 199
• Hospital: 106
• Ambulance: 166

Safe travels to Athens

Athens is like a living museum, with an incredible ancient history that will make it one of your favorite cities. Overall you can call Athens, Greece safe. The vast majority of these crimes are just as common in other European capitals which is why you should still consider Athens worth visiting.

Wondering where to stay? Consult our guide, Where to Stay in Athens: The Ultimate Guide . Since most visits to the city require the use of public transit you might benefit from reading up on How to Get Around Athens .

Explore the world

Get the bounce app.

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Athens, founded in 508 BC, is a gigantic city that sprawls over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people.

There are over 5,000 years of history in Athens and you’ll find some of the largest collections in the world of Greek ruins and artifacts here.

But I’ll be honest: I don’t love Athens. I didn’t like it when I first went in 2006 and, after four visits (most recently last year), I’m still not completely sold on it. I think it’s dirty, ugly, and, overall, there’s just something about it I just don’t like.

That said, it’s not all bad.

I love the Plaka area (that’s where all the history is) and Psyri, just north, is my favorite neighborhood in the city. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and has a lot of excellent bars, street drinking, cafes, and restaurants.

Overall, I have a feeling that Athens is a place that truly reveals its magic when you live there. So, while I’m still not sold on it, I warmed up to it after my last visit and can see why some people like it.

Given the amount of history and sights here, I suggest you spend at least three full days when you visit. There’s a lot to see and do here.

This travel guide to Athens will give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your visit, save money, and make the most of your time here!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Athens

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Athens

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is a 5th-century BCE citadel overlooking Athens. The hilltop complex includes ancient buildings and ruins like Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s undoubtedly one of the best historical spots in the city. Lots of plays are hosted in the Odeon of Herodes here in the summer too. Arrive super early or late to avoid the crowds. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens (more on that below). For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

This newer (opened in 2009) museum is housed in a modern building that’s juxtaposed with the archaeological treasures that it holds. One of the highlights is the glass floor where you can walk over the ruins of an ancient neighborhood. There are also over 4,000 excavated finds, including sculptures, friezes, pottery, and more. End your visit at the museum’s restaurant for one of the best views of the Parthenon in the city. Admission is 5 EUR in the winter and 10 EUR in the summer.

3. See the National Archaeological Museum

This museum, founded in the 19th century, has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. There are five main permanent collections with exhibits covering Prehistoric Antiquities, Sculpture, Metalwork, Vases and Minor Arts, Egyptian Antiquities, and Cypriot Antiquities. You can even see the 2,000-year-old analog “computer” found in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera. Plan to spend at least a half-day here. Admission is 6 EUR in the winter and 12 EUR in the summer.

4. Hike Lycabettus

Legend has it that the mythological goddess Athena created Mount Lycabettus when she dropped a limestone mountain on the spot. If you want some exercise and a great view of the city and the Acropolis (especially at sunset), hike up to the peak of this 277-meter (909 ft) hill, which is the highest point in Athens. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street. There’s a (pricey) cafe at the top if you need a drink, as well as an open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts in the summer, and a 19th-century chapel. If you don’t want to walk up, you can pay 7.50 EUR for a return trip on the funicular (5 EUR one-way).

5. See the Historic Sights

The ancient ruins of old Athens are littered around The Plaka, an area that’s known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods.” Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, this is the oldest part of Athens and ruins are everywhere. The Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Roman Agora, Olympieion, Kerameikos, and a ton more other stuff are all here. Plan to spend a while roaming the sites. For the big 5, get a combo ticket. It costs 30 EUR and is valid for 5 days so you don’t have to rush.

Other Things to See and Do in Athens

1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. This post lists all my favorite walking tours in Athens . Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

And if you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, Take Walks is the way to go. You get lots of behind-the-scenes access, including at the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Tours start at 59 EUR. It’s worth the money if you’re a history buff like me!

2. Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora)

This 19th-century public market is one of my favorite places to wander, people watch, and sample the local delicacies. Come early to watch the produce and fish being unloaded. There are a ton of Greek specialties, like olives, halloumi, and feta for sale here. It’s open every day of the week except Sunday, from 7am to 6pm (it gets very crowded around lunchtime so arrive early). If you have an appetite, stop at Diporto to eat. The restaurant has no menu so they serve whatever they cook for the day. The owners barely speak English but the food is excellent!

3. Go to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon

Constructed in 444 BCE, the remarkably well preserved Temple of Poseidon sits on a rocky outcrop 70 meters (300 ft) above the ocean. Built to honor the god of the sea, the temple served as a welcomed sight for returning sailors. The sunset from here is incredible and there are several beaches nearby in Legrena and Lavrio. Admission to the archaeological site is 10 EUR. It’s about an hour away from Athens.

4. Visit the Kanellopoulos Museum

This former mansion dates to 1884 and houses a collection of over 6,500 items, including jewelry, weapons, clay-and-stone vases, Byzantine art, figurines, and furniture that once belonged to the wealthy Kanellopoulos family. The collection was bought by the government and turned into a museum in 1976. Although there isn’t much English signage, you rarely have to compete for views with other visitors. Admission is 3 EUR.

5. See the Tower of the Winds (Aerides)

Originally built by Andronicus in the first century BCE, this octagonal tower once functioned as a sundial, weather vane, compass, and water clock. It’s widely accepted to be the world’s first meteorological station. The entire tower is made of Pentelic marble, which is the same used for the Parthenon and was rarely used for anything other than temples. It’s 8 EUR to visit with a combined ticket to the Ancient Agora.

6. Witness the Easter Vigil

If you happen to be in Athens during Easter weekend, don’t miss this enchanting vigil procession. Every Good Friday, thousands upon thousands of people form a procession throughout the city, all holding lit candles. Head to Lycabettus Hill and join the crowds ascending to the St. George church. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a cultural experience worth seeing. You can also climb the hill anytime to watch the sunset (it’s the highest point in the city so the views are excellent). The neighborhood below, Kolonaki, also has lots of upscale bars and cafes if you want to splash out and relax.

7. Hike Parnitha National Park

Located 90 minutes from Athens by car, here you can find several caves, gorges, and springs to explore. Mount Parnitha is also the highest mountain in the region, standing 1,413 meters (4,635 ft) tall. There are around 75 well-marked paths in the park so a guide isn’t necessary. For an easy hike, the trek to Bafi Refuge from the church of Ayia Triada only takes 40 minutes. For something more challenging, try the 20-kilometer (12-mile) trek from Avlona to Agia Marina.

8. Stroll through Anafiotika

Anafiotika is a 19th-century neighborhood built into the northern side of the Acropolis hill. It lies above Plaka, near the entrance to the Agora, but has none of the hustle and bustle of the city center. This place embodies the feel of the Greek islands, boasting whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and tiny sidewalk cafes.

9. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Dating from the 6th century BCE, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the largest temple in Greece (it took almost 700 years to build). Peisistratos, the son of Hippocrates and ruler of Athens from 561-527 BCE, started its construction and then abandoned it after funds ran dry. Hadrian finished the job in 131 CE, and then built an enormous statue of Zeus (and then an enormous statue of himself). There are only a few Corinthian columns still standing. Admission is 6 EUR but really there’s not much here so just look at it from the gate and save yourself some money!

10. Take a food tour

Athens is one big gastronomic adventure. To sample the city’s best eats, Devour’s Ultimate Athens Food Tour provides a fantastic introduction to the local cuisine, with thirteen tastings across nine traditional establishments. You’ll sample fresh cheeses and cold cuts, visit the central market, learn about Greek dining culture, enjoy loukoumades (fried donut balls), and taste some classic souvlaki, all while exploring three historic neighborhoods. Tours start from 69 EUR.

11. Hang out in Psyri

This small neighborhood north of Plaka was given a major upgrade for the 2004 Olympics and consists of an eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, tavernas, cafes, and restaurants. It’s one of my favorite areas in Athens. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and is really popular with locals on weekends. There are a lot of hostels here and nearby you’ll find one of the Middle Eastern/Indian neighborhoods in the city (they are blended here) with lots of good food options.

13. Hit the beach

The closest beaches to the center of Athens are in Piraeus and Alimos, just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) south of Athens center. They offer beaches with clear water, sand and pebbles, and have a good selection of restaurants to choose from. Their easy access from Athens by public transport means they get busy in the summer — especially on weekends and holidays. If you have more time and want to escape (some of) the crowds, head further along the Athenian Riviera to places like Lagonisi or Saronida or go on to Sounion (you could combine a beach trip with visiting the Temple of Poseidon). If the sea is too cold for swimming, head to Vouliagmeni Lake. The water in the lake is thermally heated so it’s much warmer than the ocean!

14. Hike Filopappou Hill

Right across from the Acropolis is this hill that gives you one of the best views of the Parthenon. The hill takes about 15 minutes to walk up and there are a number of ruins and sites all around the hill you can stop at (they have a lot of good signs that explain what was there). Definitely go up. The views are great!

15. Day trip to Delphi

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

16. Watch the sunset on Mars Hill

A very popular sunset spot with locals is Mars (Areopagus) Hill. It was once the site that served as the high court of appeal in ancient Greece. Today, it’s a great spot to relax and see the sunset. Bring some beer or wine up here and enjoy the view of the city right under the Acropolis. It’s like a free “rooftop” bar!

17. See Hansen’s Trilogy

There are three buildings just five minutes walk from the Syntagma main square and are considered some of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in the world. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen in the 19th century, The Academy, the University, and the National Library look exactly like how you’d picture ancient Athens. The simple use of geometric shapes gives these buildings a grand, eloquent design. Don’t miss seeing them!

18. Explore the Panathenaic Stadium (Kalimarmaro)

This stadium is where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896. The stadium was originally used in 330 BCE by the Greeks. The Romans rebuilt it entirely out of marble in 144 CE, expanding it to hold over 50,000 people. It eventually was abandoned and wasn’t used again until the 19th century when it was refurbished for the Olympics. Admission is 10 EUR. In the summer, lots of concerts are held here for big touring bands.

For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Athens Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds starts at 35 EUR per night, while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs 20-25 EUR per night. Private rooms cost between 95-105 EUR per night in peak season and around 55 EUR in off-peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have kitchens if you want to cook.

For those traveling with a tent, camping can be done outside the city for around 16 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels with a private bathroom start at 40 EUR per night, though expect to spend closer to 50-60 per night if you’re booking last minute.

You can find Airbnbs anywhere in Athens, with private rooms starting at 20 EUR per night (although they average closer to 45 EUR). A full apartment averages about 130 EUR per night.

Average cost of food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables. Olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts are also super common. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find gyros or souvlaki for between 2-3 EUR, while a breakfast pastry with a coffee isn’t more than 3 EUR.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 10 EUR for a main dish and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 5-8 EUR. Fish will be more expensive around 15-20 EUR. A lot of restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water at a restaurant is about 2 EUR.

All in all, if you’re going out at a casual taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that prices, go up depending on how fancy you get!

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 7-10 EUR while Indian/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

Beer is 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR. Cocktails are expensive, however, usually costing 8-12 EUR.

My favorite places to eat in the city are Kostas for souvlaki (they use this red sauce that is to die for), Feyrouz for Lebanese food, Avli Psiri or Ella for Greek, Shiraki for Japanese, Dosa House for dosas.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 40 EUR on groceries per week, which will get you staples like pasta, rice, fresh veggies, and chicken. Head to the Central Market for the cheapest, freshest food.

Backpacking Athens Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 45 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly cheap or free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking more, add 5-10 EUR more to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, drink more, eat out for all your meals at cheap street stalls, take the occasional taxi, and do more activities like visiting the Acropolis and the Archeological Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Athens Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece in general is pretty cheap and Athens is no exception. Stick to cheap eats, a few attractions, and boom, you’re set! But, with a few extra tips, your money can go a lot further. Here are some suggested ways to save money in Athens:

• Take a free walking tour – To get a feel for the city and learn some history, be sure to take a free walking tour when you arrive. Exploring a city on foot is the best way to understand it, and if you love architecture and history then this is a must! Just be sure to tip your guide at the end.
• Get a transportation pass – Buying combo tickets for Athens’ metro system is one of the best ways to save money. A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR, and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.
• Visit the sites for free – From November 1st to March 31st, all major sites in the city are free on the first Sunday of the month. Though the crowds tend to be big, it’s a great way to see all the major sites and save yourself the entrance fee! Prices are also heavily discounted during these months as well.
• Get a combo ticket – For 30 EUR you can get admission to the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and more. Considering the entrance fee is 20 EUR for just the Acropolis, this is a steal!
• Have an ISIC Card – To save up to 50% on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts in Athens. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you get a local host that can tell you the best places to go and share their insider tips.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Use the Greek Salad/Bread Rule – Is a restaurant cheap or expensive? Here’s a good rule of thumb: If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more that, the place is expensive.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!
• Use points if you can – If you have points, use them to book accommodation. For only a few thousand points per night, you can save a ton of money. This post has more info if you’re new to points and miles .

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens has plenty of affordable hostels to choose from. From hostels to hotels to quaint B&Bs, you have a lot of choice. If you’re looking for a hostel, here are some of my favorites (they all offer private rooms too):

• Athens Hawks Hostel

How to Get Around Athens

A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.

The express bus from the airport for 6 EUR each way. The subway costs 9 EUR each way and takes about an hour from the city center to the airport (and vice versa).

Bicycle – If you’re not afraid of navigating Athens’ chaotic traffic, bike rentals are an enjoyable way to get around. Rentals start at 12 EUR per day, though electric bicycles can be double that price. Athens By Bike and Bike Me Up are two reputable companies to use.

Taxi – Base fare for taxis in Athens is 3 EUR, with each additional kilometer costing 0.74 EUR. Skip the taxis if you can as the prices add up quickly. Also, make sure the meter is turned on. It’s illegal for drivers not to use the meter, however, some drivers might try to get sneaky to rip you off. Additionally, make sure the meter shows a number “1”. The “2” is only for 12am-5am, when the rates are double.

Ridesharing – Uber no longer exists here so you’re stuck taking taxis. (You can still use the Uber app, but it will just call a taxi for you).

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. However, you won’t need one unless you’re going to be leaving the city to explore the surrounding area. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

When to Go to Athens

Summer (June-August)is the most popular time to visit. However, it’s also super hot. Temperatures climb as high as the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F), which can often be unbearable. Sometimes they get even higher and get closer to 40°C. On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing some island hopping from Athens, this is a good time to come to enjoy the Mediterranean waters.

Winters in Athens are mild, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F). It rarely snows so this can be an excellent time to see the Acropolis and other famous sights without the tourist crowds. Easter is an excellent time to visit to appreciate all the Greek Orthodox celebrations.

Personally, I think that the shoulder season (April/May and September/October) is the best time to visit. Prices are a bit cheaper, temperatures are pleasant, and you can avoid the busiest time of the tourist season. If you’re on a budget and want to beat the crowds, this is when you should visit.

How to Stay Safe in Athens

Athens is generally a very safe city to visit, even for solo travelers. Your biggest risk is pickpockets, especially on the subway. The city is rife with them. Be sure to keep a close eye on your stuff and watch out for groups who come near you. Usually, they are working in teams to distract you while someone picks your pocket. Other than that, there’s not much to worry about.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

At night, it’s best to avoid the areas around Omonia, Exarcheia, Victoria Square, and Kolokotroni.

If you hike to Fillopapou hill, keep an eye out for pickpockets. The pickpockets know tourists go up there so they tend to hang out around there looking for an easy target.

Scams can occur around Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Glyfada when tourists are lured into a bar with special discounted drink prices, and then are later forced to pay huge prices on their bar tabs or get threatened with violence. You can read more about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Athens Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Athens Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Athens Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Athens, Greece in 2024?

Planning a trip to Athens? Concerned about safety amid mixed reviews? Dive into essential insights on navigating this historic, cultural city safely.

Safety in Athens isn't a simple yes or no question. Like any major city, it has its safe areas and spots that are a bit riskier, especially at night. Understanding the nuances of safety in Athens will help you navigate the city confidently and ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

Key Takeaways

• Athens is Comparable to Other European Capitals in Terms of Safety: While overall crime rates in Athens are lower than many European capitals, pickpocketing and scams are more prevalent, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Monastiraki and Syntagma Square.
• Stay Informed and Cautious: Being aware of your surroundings and knowledgeable about common scams is crucial. Additionally, certain neighborhoods are advised to be avoided or approached with caution after dark, such as Omonia Square and Exarchia.
• Safe Areas to Explore: Neighborhoods like Plaka and Kolonaki offer safe, lively atmospheres with low crime rates. They provide a blend of history, culture, and modern lifestyle, making them ideal for tourists.
• Night Safety Guidelines: Exploring Athens at night is generally safe when sticking to well-lit areas, traveling in groups, and being cautious on public transportation, especially the Metro to avoid pickpockets.
• Emergency Preparedness: Always carry a charged phone with emergency numbers, such as the national emergency number in Greece (112), readily available. This preparedness is essential for navigating any potential safety issues while enjoying the vibrant nightlife and cultural offerings of Athens.

Understanding Safety in Athens

When you're planning your trip to Athens, it's crucial to get a clear picture of what safety in the city really looks like. The reality is Athens is as safe as any major city in Europe , but like any urban area, it has its complexities. Key to navigating these complexities is understanding the specifics of where and when safety concerns might arise.

First, let's delve into some statistics that shed light on safety in Athens. Recent data suggests that the overall crime rate in Athens is lower than in many other European capitals. However, certain types of crime, like pickpocketing and scams, are more prevalent in crowded tourist areas such as Monastiraki and Syntagma Square.

Awareness is your strongest ally in Athens. Most incidents occur because tourists are not paying attention to their surroundings or are unaware of common scams. For example, always be cautious of overly friendly strangers or any situations that feel orchestrated.

Safety at night in another consideration. While Athens is vibrant and lively, certain areas should be approached with caution after dark. Areas such as Omonia and Exarchia have a reputation for being less safe at night due to occasional protests and the presence of anarchists. In contrast, neighborhoods like Plaka and Koukaki are known for their safety and friendly atmosphere, day and night.

Practical safety tips include:

• Always keep your belongings secure and within sight.
• Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth.
• Stay informed about any local protests or strikes.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps for late-night transportation.

Understanding safety in Athens goes beyond simple do's and don'ts. It's about immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of the city while being smart and aware. By staying informed and cautious, you’ll optimize your Athens experience, embracing all the beauty and intrigue it has to offer.

Safe Areas in Athens

When exploring Athens, safety is likely at the forefront of your mind. Understanding which areas are considered safe can significantly enhance your overall travel experience. Certain neighborhoods stand out for their low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal for tourists.

Plaka and Kolonaki are prime examples of safe areas. Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," is nestled at the foot of the Acropolis and is renowned for its labyrinth of streets filled with history, quaint cafes, and independent boutiques. Kolonaki, a more upscale district, offers a sophisticated atmosphere with its high-end shops, art galleries, and stylish bars. Both areas are not only safe but also embody the vibrancy and culture of Athens.

Here’s a snapshot of safety in popular Athenian neighborhoods based on tourist reviews and local insights:

Keep in mind, while these areas are deemed safe, maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded spots.

Additionally, the Syntagma area, while busier, is a hub for political and social activity due to its proximity to the Hellenic Parliament. This makes it a fascinating area to visit, with the added benefit of heightened security.

Monastiraki , known for its flea market and abundance of dining options, offers a more bustling atmosphere. While slightly higher in petty crime, its lively vibe and central location make it a must-visit, especially during the day.

Exploring these safe neighborhoods reveals Athens's multifaceted charm, blending ancient history with modern lifestyle. Each district offers unique experiences and, with safety in mind, promises an enriching visit.

Areas to Avoid in Athens

When exploring Athens, knowing which areas to steer clear of can enhance your safety and overall experience. While Athens is a storied city with much to offer, certain neighborhoods have higher crime rates and may not offer the security that tourists expect. This doesn't mean you should be overly worried, but being informed is your first step towards a secure visit.

Omonoia Square stands out as an area to be cautious around, especially after dark. Historically, it has been a center for commercial activity, but has seen an increase in drug-related crimes and homelessness in recent years. During the day, the square teems with life and can be safe to explore, but it's advisable to avoid it at night when the atmosphere shifts significantly.

Next, Exarchia is known for its vibrant street art and as a hub for political activism. However, it's also associated with anarchist movements and can occasionally experience demonstrations that may catch an uninformed visitor off guard. If you're not looking for a dive into political unrest, it might be best to skip this area.

Lastly, parts of Psiri should be approached with caution. While it's famous for its nightlife and has many safe and delightful spots to explore during the day, its narrow streets can become challenging to navigate safely at night, with instances of petty crime.

Always remember, these advisories don't mean you should avoid these areas entirely. Athens is a city of contrasts and cultural depth where different neighborhoods offer unique slices of life. Being aware, sticking to well-lit streets, and keeping your belongings secure can make your experience in Athens enriching and memorable. Just like any major city, Athens has its blend of safe havens and spots better left unexplored after dark.

Night Safety Tips in Athens

Exploring Athens by night is an experience not to be missed, but staying safe should be your top priority. As enchanting as the city is after dark, certain precautions can ensure your night adventures are both memorable and safe.

First and foremost, stay in well-lit areas . The enchanting streets of Athens can lead you from bustling areas into quieter, dimly lit ones quickly. Key tourist spots like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square are well-illuminated and generally safe, but venturing into less-lit areas can increase risks.

Group travel is not just fun but also a strategic safety measure. There's strength in numbers, and moving with friends or fellow travelers can deter potential petty criminals. If you're solo, consider joining a guided night tour. Not only will you see the city from a unique perspective, but you'll also enjoy the safety that comes with being part of a group.

Use of public transportation in Athens is generally safe. However, be extra cautious on the Metro . While it's a convenient way to get around, pickpockets are known to operate, especially in crowded compartments. Always keep your belongings secure and in sight.

Remaining alert and aware of your surroundings can make all the difference. While Athens is generally safe, tourists can sometimes be targeted by thieves, especially in crowded or less visible areas. Always carry a charged phone and have emergency numbers handy. The national emergency number in Greece is 112—a number you should memorize just in case.

Enjoying Athens at night is a fantastic experience if you follow these safety guidelines. Embrace the vibrant night-life, the food, and the culture, all while making your personal safety a priority.

Exploring Athens at night can be a thrilling experience, offering you a glimpse into the city's lively culture and cuisine. By sticking to well-lit areas, opting for group travel, and considering guided tours, you're setting yourself up for an enjoyable and secure night out. Remember, staying vigilant on public transport and keeping your essentials close will further safeguard your adventures. With these tips in hand, you're ready to dive into Athens' nightlife, ensuring your safety while soaking in the unforgettable experiences the city has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i stay safe while exploring athens at night.

To maximize your safety while exploring Athens after dark, stick to well-lit areas and consider traveling in groups. Joining guided night tours is another effective way to enhance your safety, offering you the opportunity to explore with the security of a knowledgeable guide.

Are night tours a good option for nighttime exploration in Athens?

Yes, joining guided night tours is highly recommended as they not only offer an added layer of security but also provide an enriching experience of Athens' vibrant nightlife and culture with the assistance of an experienced guide who knows the city well.

What precautions should I take on Athens' public transportation at night?

When using Athens' public transportation during nighttime, especially the Metro, stay vigilant against pickpocketing. Keep your belongings secure and remain aware of your surroundings to minimize risks.

What should I do to ensure my personal safety at night in Athens?

Ensuring your personal safety in Athens at night involves staying alert, sticking to populated and well-lit areas, and avoiding isolated spots. Always carry a charged mobile phone and have emergency numbers handy. Traveling in groups is also advisable for increased security.

73 Basic Dutch Phrases for Your Next Trip to Netherlands 🇳🇱

Learn essential Dutch phrases for a smooth trip to the Netherlands. Perfect for travelers looking to connect with locals and enrich their experience.

Win a $500 Flight!

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Enter our Dream Journey Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 travel voucher, redeemable with any major US airline. Whether it's sandy beaches, bustling cities, or tranquil mountains, your dream destination is just an email away!*

Best Time to Visit Santorini for Hidden Gems Only Locals Know About

Dreaming of visiting Santorini? You're not alone. This stunning island, with its white buildings and deep blue seas, is a top spot for travelers. But when's the best time to go? Let's dive in.

Uncover Hidden Gems: Best Places to Visit in September for a Perfect Escape

September's the sweet spot for travel. It's when the summer crowds thin out, but the weather's still nice. You get the best of both worlds: fewer people and great days to explore. Imagine walking through a city or hiking a trail without bumping into tons of tourists. Sounds awesome, right?

November Wonders: Top European Spots & Events to Explore

November's a cool month to explore Europe. It's not too cold yet, and the summer crowds have gone home. You get to see a different side of places, with cozy vibes and fewer people around.

August Gems: Unveil Bordeaux's Best - Europe's Top Pick

August's here, and it's the perfect time to pack your bags for a European adventure. With the sun shining bright and the streets alive with festivals, Europe's at its best. Whether you're into chilling by the beach or exploring historic cities, there's something for everyone.

May Magic: Discover Europe's Hidden Gem, the Swiss Alps

May is the perfect time to explore Europe. The weather's getting warmer, but it's not too hot yet. Plus, the summer crowds haven't arrived, so you can enjoy famous spots without bumping into too many people.

Unlock September's Gem: Why Santorini Shines as Europe's Top Visit

September's a sweet spot for traveling in Europe. The summer crowds have thinned out, but the weather's still warm enough to enjoy. It's like the continent breathes out, more relaxed, yet still buzzing with energy. You get to see Europe in a whole new light, with colors starting to change, and a cool breeze in the air.

Top July Gems: Best European Spots for Culture & Nature Festivals

Thinking about a summer getaway? July's the perfect time to explore Europe. With the sun shining bright and the days lasting longer, there's so much you can see and do. From the cool beaches to the bustling cities, Europe's got it all.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Greece for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Dreaming of living where the sun kisses your skin, the sea hugs the coast, and history whispers through the streets? Well, you're in luck because Greece is all that and a bag of olives. It's not just about the stunning beaches or the mouth-watering food, though those are big pluses. Each corner of Greece offers a unique vibe, from bustling city life to serene island living.

Best Time to Visit Greece: Ideal Months for Sun, Sea, and Fewer Crowds

Thinking about heading to Greece? You're in for a treat! This sunny spot is famous for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and tasty food. But when's the best time to visit? Well, that depends on what you're looking for.

Best Time to Visit Athens: Fall for Festivals, Fewer Crowds & Deals

Planning a trip to Athens? You're in for a treat! This city is not just a treasure trove of history, but it's also bustling with vibrant streets, delicious food, and friendly locals. But when's the best time to pack your bags and head to this ancient city? Let's dive in.

Best Season for Greece: Travel Tips & Events Guide

Plan your perfect Greek vacation with our guide on the best seasons, travel tips, and events. Make the most of your trip whether you're into history, cuisine, or beaches.

Greece Trip Cost: Pricing for Flights, Food & Accommodation

Plan your dream Greece trip without breaking the bank! Get vital tips on flights, food, & accommodation costs plus budget-saving tricks for savvy travelers.

Best Islands In Greece For Couples (Beautiful Beaches & Scenic Views!)

Find romance in Greece's best islands for couples! From Kythira's historic charm to Santorini's luxury & Milos's scenic beaches, perfect for lovebirds.

Best Time To Visit Mykonos (Perfect Weather & Fun Festivities)

Plan your Mykonos trip with our guide on the best time for perfect weather, fewer crowds, and exciting festivals. Ideal for savvy travelers seeking the ultimate Greek island experience.

You may also like...

Chiapas Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Chiapas, Mexico in 2024?

Explore if Chiapas, Mexico is safe for travel with insights on local safety, contrasting news, and traveler tales. Is Chiapas safe? Read on.

Quepos Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Quepos, Costa Rica in 2024?

Exploring Quepos, Costa Rica safety for travelers. A guide to enjoying this Pacific coast gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park worry-free.

Liberia Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Liberia, Costa Rica in 2024?

Wondering if Liberia, Costa Rica is safe for travel? Explore safety tips for this Pacific Coast gateway, a must-read for cautious travelers.

Santa Teresa Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica in 2024?

Is Santa Teresa, Costa Rica safe for travelers? Explore safety tips for a worry-free trip to this tropical paradise with surf and sun.

Am I Safe to Travel to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica in 2024?

Exploring Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica? Learn if this lush, vibrant destination is a safe haven for travelers in our latest blog post.

Tijuana Safety: Am I Safe to Travel to Tijuana, Mexico in 2024?

Is Tijuana safe for travel? Explore safety tips, culture, cuisine & markets of this vibrant border city. Perfect for cautious travelers.

The travel site  inspired by travelers and locals alike. Find amazing destinations, unique trip ideas, the best hotels, and most comfortable resorts.

• Roof Garden
• Photo Gallery
• Athens Travel Blog
• Book a suite

Is Athens, Greece Safe For Tourists? 2023 Athens Safety Guide

Athens is world-renowned for its rich ancient history, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and bustling city life. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or just looking to have fun in the sun, Athens has it all! But with every tourist destination, there are some safety concerns. This guide will help you plan your trip to Athens safely and make sure that your visit to the Greek capital is stress-free. We will discuss safety tips for different areas of travel, such as transport, accommodation and sightseeing. You’ll also learn about common scams that tourists should watch out for and ways to stay safe in the city. So let’s get started!

Is Athens Safe for Tourists in 2023?

Short answer: Absolutely! Overall, Athens is a very safe city to visit as the crime rates are currently at a very low level (lower than the average rate of other European cities). With its stunning monuments, delicious food, and friendly people, it’s easy to see why many travellers flock to this historic place every year. That being said, as with any metropolitan area, there are certain, small precautions you should take in order to ensure your safety while visiting Athens in 2023. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure that your time in Athens is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Top petty crimes and tourist scams in Athens affecting tourists

Taxi scams in athens.

Travelling around Athens can be very enjoyable and fascinating, but it is important to remember that unfortunately there are taxi scams in the city. Many taxi drivers tend to overcharge tourists who may not be aware of the usual price, so it’s best to research the average fares before you get into one. Additionally, taxis at airports and ports tend to be significantly more expensive than those found elsewhere. To avoid this issue, it may be wise to download a local taxi app like Freenow prior to your trip as many locals use this and are familiar with the prices. This way, you can get around safely without having to worry about being taken advantage of by unscrupulous taxi drivers.

Petty Theft and Pickpocketing in Athens

Petty theft and pickpockets are an unfortunate reality in central Athens. The Greek police have taken steps to reduce this type of criminal activity, but it is still important to be aware of the risks and take precautions. Tourists should be careful when visiting popular touristic spots, as they can be a target for petty theft. Pickpockets tend to prey on unsuspecting tourists in crowded areas such as metro stations or busy streets so it is important for travellers to be aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions when visiting these areas. Omonoia Square is particularly notorious for such activities, especially at night. Keeping a close eye on your personal belongings, being mindful of crowded places, and only carrying the necessary amount of cash can help reduce the risk of theft.

Incorrect Restaurant Bills

When dining in Athens, it is important to pay close attention to the bill that you are presented with since some restaurant owners in Greece can often be deceptive when it comes to charging for meals and drinks. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to being overcharged as some restaurants may not provide receipts or display menus that show the actual prices of dishes. It is recommended to request a receipt and check the bill carefully to make sure all charges are accurate. Additionally, menus should always be available and prices should be clearly visible. Doing so can help protect tourists from being taken advantage of by unscrupulous restaurants in Athens.

It is also important to remember that restaurant owners cannot charge more than what is listed on the menu. If a higher price is levied, you should refuse to pay and demand that the correct amount be charged.

The Bracelet Scam

In Athens, the bracelet scam is becoming increasingly common and it causes many unsuspecting tourists to lose their money in a matter of moments without ever getting anything back. The scam works like this: people posing as friendly strangers will approach you and put a bracelet on your wrist. They’ll compliment it and suggest that it looks really nice on you before asking for money and many people, feeling guilty and flattered by the attention, will pay for the cheap bracelet. It’s important to remember that this is a scam and you should never give in to the pressure of paying for something you didn’t want after all. If someone approaches you with such an offer, decline politely and move on with your day.

When you “accidentally” drop something

This is a scam that occurs on the busy street of Ermou . It involves a person playing music on the street with a small cup filled with coins that have no value. The purpose of this is to make it easy for passers-by to accidentally hit the cup and feel guilty for losing the money. Scammers typically encourage people to give them an exorbitant tip to make up for their mistake. It is important to always pay attention to what is around you so you can avoid situations like that and never give in to demands from scammers. In the event that you do accidentally hit the cup, it is best to simply apologize and continue on your way. Do not fall prey to this scam!

Is Athens safe at night?

Athens is generally a safe place to be at night, but it is always advisable to take precautionary measures. The center of Athens and the neighborhoods around it are known for their vibrant nightlife since many people can be seen on the streets even after midnight. Nevertheless, there are certain locations that should be avoided during the night time such as Omonoia Square, Filopappou Hill, and Metaxourgio, as these areas are known to have higher crime rates. To enjoy a safe and pleasant night out in Athens, it is best to stay away from these areas and to take appropriate safety measures such as walking in groups or calling for a taxi.

Is Athens Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

As with other European capitals, Athens is perfectly safe to visit if you’re a woman travelling on your own. You don’t have to consider any extra precautions, just use your common sense and try to avoid bad neighborhoods, especially during nighttime. Other than that, you can explore the city just like any other visitor.

That being said, Greeks are considered extremely friendly and welcoming to foreign, solo visitors so don’t be afraid to ask for directions or advice if you need it. If you’re staying in a hotel, the staff there should also be able to provide useful information about which areas to avoid.

Safest Neighborhoods in Athens

Syntagma square.

Syntagma is the central hub of activity in Athens. Located at the heart of the city, this square is home to the Greek Parliament and features many upscale hotels along its perimeter that are perfect for travellers who look for convenience and comfort. While these accommodations can be costly, they are conveniently located near all major tourist attractions and provide easy access to public transportation, making them a great choice for visitors. Syntagma is considered one of the safest locations to stay in Athens, as it has a heavy presence of police officers and security staff.

Koukaki is a vibrant and lively district of Athens and it is considered the most popular district in Athens amongst tourists. Located in the heart of the city, it is perfect for those looking to explore the sights and sounds of Athens. Home to a vast variety of shops, small cafes, and restaurants, Koukaki offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner at one of the many small eateries or some retail therapy, this is the place to be. The area also boasts numerous cultural attractions such as art galleries and museums. Not only is Koukaki the perfect place to explore Athens but it also offers a safe and secure environment for tourists to enjoy their stay. With its easy access to public transportation and close proximity to key attractions in the city, staying in Koukaki is an ideal choice for visitors.

Kolonaki is a desirable destination for those who seek an upscale experience in Athens. Its prime location near Syntagma Square makes it easy to access, and its selection of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes provides visitors with a luxurious atmosphere. Kolonaki is also generally safe, making it the perfect place to go for an enjoyable evening out. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious dinner, an exclusive shopping experience, or just a nice stroll around the area, Kolonaki is definitely worth exploring.

Staying in the vibrant neighborhood of Psirri has its advantages. Located close to key locations such as Monastiraki, Psirri is a great base for exploring Athens. It’s also home to a variety of local tavernas and bistros, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience the city’s nightlife. The area is well connected by public transport too so you can easily access other parts of Athens with ease. The Foundry Luxury Suites is also located at Psirri, making it easy for you to stay in comfort and style while you explore the city.

Neighborhoods in Athens that you might skip

Omonoia Square in Athens has been plagued with safety concerns over the years. The area is known for its high rates of petty crimes and drug dealing, but despite these issues, the square remains a popular destination for tourists due to its plentiful budget-friendly hotel options. While the region around Omonoia has been subjected to increased policing in recent years, it is still advisable for visitors to take extra precautions while visiting, especially at night.

Metaxourgio

Metaxourgio is a neighborhood close to Omonoia Square that has its own unique charm. With its plethora of interesting restaurants and cafes, it’s certainly worth a visit. However, you should be aware that there are some safety concerns involving drug usage and dealing in some parts of this neighborhood so you should be vigilant at all times.

This is an urban region located in the center of Athens. This area is well-known for being home to the National Archaeological Museum of Greece, so it’s a must-stop destination for many travellers. However, visitors should be aware that some streets around Exarcheia can be dangerous and that thefts are not uncommon. It’s best to stay within the main areas and take extra precautions when walking around late at night.

Tips for a carefree vacation in Athens

Always watch your belongings.

Athens is known for pickpocketing and this is the main threat to security as with many other popular places. Keep a watchful eye on your stuff – particularly in crowded places, metro stations, or the neighborhoods around Omonia and Exarchia. Keep your cash in a secure location. No fancy DSLR in your neck or a smartphone hung in your pocket when you stroll around the city or in public transportation.

Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance

There are several hospitals and clinics in Athens, but make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance if something unexpected happens. This includes coverage for medical services, repatriation costs, and even legal expenses if needed.

Note down your embassy’s contact details

When travelling abroad, it’s important to be aware of the details of your home country’s embassy in the country you are visiting. Knowing the exact location of your embassy can be invaluable in case any unexpected issues arise such as lost or stolen passports or needing medical assistance.

Don’t Behave Like a Typical Tourist

While visiting a foreign country it is important to blend in with the locals. Avoid anything that could identify you as a tourist, such as wearing clothes with logos or bulky backpacks. Instead, opt for clothing and accessories similar to what most locals wear. This will help you look more like a local resident and less like an obvious tourist. Additionally, try to avoid travelling in large groups, as this can draw unwanted attention and make you stand out more. By blending in with the locals, you can ensure that your presence is not noticed by potential criminals or scammers. With a little preparation and precaution, you can enjoy your travels in peace.

Final Thoughts Regarding Safety in Athens

Athens is a beautiful city with a lot to offer! With the right precautions, you can enjoy your time in Athens without any safety concerns. Avoid travelling alone at night and be aware of pickpockets. Make sure you have travel insurance and always keep your belongings secure. When in doubt, make sure to follow common sense — if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and move on. And most importantly, try to avoid looking like a typical tourist — don’t wear flashy clothes or accessories! By keeping these tips in mind, you will have no trouble enjoying your time in Athens.

Safe travels!

• Privacy Overview
• 3rd Party Cookies
• Privacy & Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information can be found at our Privacy Policy

Contact Info

• Sarri 40, 10560 Athens, Greece
• [email protected]
• 0030 211 18 24 604

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Greece travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 15:14 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, greece - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Greece.

Back to top

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and luggage theft occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in restaurants, patios and bars
• in hotel lobbies
• on public transportation, including metro and trains to and from Athens International Airport
• at airports, bus and railway stations including Larissa and Peloponnese stations in Athens

While you’re in Greece:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
• avoid isolated areas, parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as attacks committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities are uncommon, but do occur.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Victims of crime

If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it. Keep a copy of your report, as you may need it to make a claim to your insurance provider.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

The Greek police has a dedicated unit to assist foreign tourists and offers services in English and other languages.

You can contact the tourism police 24/7 anywhere in Greece by dialling the 1571 or the regular police at 100.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Extremist groups and organizations have used improvised explosive devices, bombs and arson attacks in urban areas to target:

• the Greek State and its institutions
• foreign commercial and diplomatic interests
• ethnic, religious and migrants’ centers and organizations

While tourists are not specifically targeted, you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations.

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. They are usually held on days of social or historical significance, such as:

• Workers' Day on May 1
• the commemoration of the Athens Polytechnic uprising of 1973 on November 17
• the commemoration of the riots of 2008 on December 6

In Athens, demonstrations and marches occur primarily in areas around:

• Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament
• Omonia Square
• the National Technical University complex on Patision Avenue
• Exarchia neighbourhood

In Thessaloniki, they occur primarily in areas around:

• Aristotelous Square
• Egnatia Street
• the Arch of Galerius
• the campus of the Aristotle University

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Demonstrations and strikes can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport and public health services. These strikes can disrupt travel and public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Foreigners have been sexually assaulted, most often on the islands.

Don’t accept rides from strangers or casual acquaintances.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Many beaches in Greece are supervised and enforce excellent safety procedures.

However, tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Coral, urchin, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Ask local authorities about the presence of dangerous species and immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt
• Wear reef shoes to protect yourself against stone and coral cuts or urchin stings
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat and don’t exceed it
• know and respect the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water
• keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or mountaineering:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your hiking companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as snakes
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• dial 112 from a cellphone for any emergency

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Severe traffic congestion and difficult terrain may lead to hazardous driving conditions.

Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and are reckless.

Drivers and speeding motorbikes don’t always yield to pedestrians or bicycles. Exercise caution when walking, crossing streets or biking.

Accidents involving tourists renting motorbikes, scooters or mopeds are common, especially on the islands.

Small, unlicensed rental agencies do not always offer vehicles that comply with up-to-date safety standards.

• Read the rental contract carefully
• Inspect the equipment before renting it
• Never drink and drive
• Reduce your speed on rough and uneven terrain
• In the event of an accident, wait for police to arrive

You may not be able to file an insurance claim without a police report.

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe and reliable. The bus network is extensive, and train services connect certain major cities. Athens has a modern metro system. Strikes may sometimes affect transportation services.

Taxis are generally safe. Metered taxis are widely available.

There are fixed rates for transportation to and from Athens International Airport. Confirm the rate before departure.

Ferries between mainland Greece and its islands meet European safety standards.

Weather conditions and strong winds can lead to cancellations or significant delays. Rough sea conditions may cause motion sickness, particularly on high-speed ferries.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Greek authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Greece is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Work visa: required Student visa: required

If you must stay in Greece longer than 90 days due to serious and unforeseen events, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to seek an extension of your stay as a visitor.

Present your request to the office of the Greek police on aliens’ issues at least 15 days before your 90-day, visa-free period expires.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country.

Facilities are generally good in cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki and in towns that have large hospitals, such as Heraklion, Ioannina and Patras.

If you’re travelling to smaller islands or to remote areas, you may need a medical evacuation to a central hospital, in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Greece are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Greece to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Greece authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local police may ask to see your identification at any time.

• Carry adequate identification at all times, such as your passport or residence permit
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or stolen

Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

• military installations and military personnel
• border areas
• harbours, airports and other transportation hubs
• churches, monasteries and monks

In and around these areas, you should always:

• verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
• request permission if individuals are involved
• refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
• comply with all requests from local authorities

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

• Information to visitors concerning drones - Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
• Civil drones - European Union Aviation Safety Agency

Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as:

• knuckledusters
• pocketknife
• pepper spray

Do not buy or travel with these items.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

There are strict laws regarding:

• purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
• excavation and on-site archaeological research
• access to underwater archaeological sites
• filming and photography of archaeological sites for commercial purposes
• protection of archaeological sites and monuments

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

• have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archaeological sites
• obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities

While visiting archaeological sites and monuments:

• don’t film or photograph unless it is clearly allowed
• stay on the dedicated paths and respect off-limits areas
• don’t touch statues and monuments
• don’t pick up rocks or any other artifacts found on site

Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Greece.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Greece, or are eligible for Greek citizenship, you may be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects of Greek law.

Obtain a document certifying your status from the Embassy of Greece prior to travel.

• National service - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa
• Greek citizenship - Embassy of Greece in Ottawa

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Greece.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Greece, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Greek court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Greece to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). This must be done online prior to arrival.

Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee - Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) (in Greek)

As a tourist or temporary resident, you can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence.

You must have valid insurance coverage.

You must wear a helmet when driving or as a passenger of a motorcycle, a scooter or a moped. You may be fined if you fail to comply.

Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. Don’t pick up hitchhikers.

Driving in Greece - European Commission

The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR).

ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas or may be out of cash. Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Seismic activity

Greece is located in an active seismic zone. Major earthquakes could occur and can cause significant damage.

Santorini and Nisyros islands have active volcanoes.

If you’re travelling near an active volcano or are practising volcano tourism:

• closely monitor volcanic activity levels through local media and official sources
• ensure that you’re well informed about conditions that may pose a hazard
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes - National Observatory of Athens
• Volcanic eruptions - Ministry for climate crisis and civil protections

Seasonal storms and flooding

Seasonal storms and heavy rains can cause severe flooding and landslides particularly during the spring and winter months. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Weather forecast and alerts - Hellenic National Meteorological Service

Meltemi wind

The Meltemi or Etesian is a strong wind that regularly sweeps the Aegean and the eastern Mediterranean seas from May to September. It can blow uninterruptedly for several days. This wind may bring high waves, strong currents and may disrupt transportation.

If you travel to Greece during this period:

• expect possible transportation delays or cancellations
• be very cautious if sailing or boating
• avoid swimming during rough sea conditions
• monitor the latest regional weather forecasts

Wildfires are common between July and September, particularly in:

• the Peloponnese
• Central Greece
• Eastern Macedonia and Thrace
• the northern areas of Athens.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local emergency services personnel, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Latest information on fires - General Secretariat for Civil Protection

Local services

• 112 for emergency assistance
• 1571 for tourist police
• 100 for police

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Greece, in Athens, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is Athens Safe? Solo Traveling to Athens Greece

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2024

Athens is a unique city with ancient and modern treasures to enjoy, but is Athens safe for solo travelers? While many families tend to travel to Athens, it’s also a terrific place for solo travelers . There are many incredible places to see in Athens, and this solo travel to Greece guide has helpful information for visiting Athens alone.

You can use this guide to help you navigate the top places to see in Athens . It also includes recommendations for places to stay, interesting facts about Greece , and safety tips. If you’re wondering, “Is Greece safe for solo female travelers?” this guide will answer all your questions and more.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Best Places to See in Athens

Visit the Acropolis

A must-see during any solo travel Greece experience is the Acropolis . This citadel towers above the city and once served as a temple, a place of refuge for city dwellers during times of conflict, and a place to celebrate the arts. This historic and architectural marvel is perfect for learning about ancient Greek culture. You can’t solo travel to Greece without spending a day at the Acropolis .

Remember, this is a popular spot to visit in Athens, so it gets crowded quickly. It’s best to visit as early as possible to skip the crowds.

Explore the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is home to thousands of archeological artifacts found near the Acropolis. The museum offers various exhibits and galleries, including the Parthenon Gallery and the Archaic Acropolis Gallery.

The museum also has a restaurant and daily talks about items housed there. To enter the Acropolis Museum, you must purchase a ticket, which gives you access to everything inside.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Athens Tours :  Click here to check out the top Athens tours Best Athens Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Athens Best Athens Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Athens

See the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora is known for being one of the best places to view an ancient Greek marketplace. Located beneath the Acropolis, you can view excavations of this former gathering place as well as the nearby Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos, famous for their historical significance and stunning architecture.

Watch the Changing of the Guard at Parliament

The changing of the guard at Parliament is a sight every Athens visitor should experience. While the guard changes daily in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, I recommend visiting on a Sunday for a unique cultural ceremony. At 11 a.m., guards dressed in traditional military uniforms change places in a stunning show of tradition.

Tour the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is a remarkable architectural wonder and one of the only stadiums in the world constructed solely of marble. Built in the 4th century B.C., it was once where athletes would compete against each other in track events, similar to the Olympics we know today.

When you’re done touring the exterior , you can stop inside the stadium shop to buy souvenirs or walk to the nearby café for a fresh coffee.

Check Out the Temple of Zeus

The Temple of Zeus was built in 471 B.C. and is a breathtaking place that will transport you back to ancient Greece. Dedicated to the mythological Greek god Zeus, the temple is famous for its Doric architecture.

Wander Around Plaka

The beautiful neighborhood of Plaka is filled with shops and cafes hidden behind native trees and flowers. As one of the oldest sections of Athens, Plaka is not only historical but also a great place to experience local Greek culture.

You can shop for artisanal items you can’t find anywhere else or relax at one of the cafes lining the cobblestone streets while listening to live music. Plaka is also home to Cine Paris, considered one of the top outdoor movie theaters in the city, with a stunning view of the Acropolis.

Journey to Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Another great activity to add to your Greece solo travel itinerary is a half-day trip to Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon . Sounion is a popular site for archeology, beaches, and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

While there, visit the Temple of Poseidon—tour the temple’s ruins dedicated to Poseidon, the mythological Greek god of the sea.

Quick Tip : View my full  Europe packing guide here.

Is Athens Safe at Night? Local Nightlife

Athens boasts a lively nightlife scene with bars, live music venues, and nightclubs—there’s no shortage of things to do in Athens at night. Wondering, “Is Athens safe to explore after dark?” Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid traveling alone, and trust your gut instincts.

Exarchia is a hip urban area (think graffiti, bohemian shops, and rock cafes) with a wide variety of cheap bars and some of the best Rebetika clubs in the city. This is where the rebels hang out, and while it often gets a bad rap, it’s a great place to party with local Athenians.

Koukaki is a sophisticated and safe residential area with views of the Acropolis. It isn’t the most popular choice for tourists, but the charming, colorful, pedestrian-friendly streets offer many quaint bars.

Metaxourgeio, aka Keramikos , is ideal for a bar crawl. It is known as a vibrant, alternative area with excellent shopping, art galleries, theaters, cozy courtyard cafes, jazz lounges, and cocktail bars.

Kolonaki is the most exclusive area of Athens, filled with chic yet quirky wine, cocktail, and jazz bars. You’ll find something unique, often considered the Beverley Hills of Athens. Don’t feel daunted—while it might be classy, there’s nothing pretentious about it.

Grungy Gazi , located in the heart of the Athens LGBTQ+ scene, is where the super-clubbers go. This former industrial area is home to some of the city’s best gay bars, Rebetiko clubs, and live music venues.

Known as a hotbed for local nightlife, Psirri is another trendy area with a bohemian vibe and bars to suit all tastes and budgets. People-watching is essential, and bar crawling is easy as you move from sophisticated wine bars to laidback beer bars.

As the oldest neighborhood in Athens, Plaka is an iconic area full of twisting backstreets and cute bars and restaurants. Though always busy, ensuring excellent people-watching, you won’t get the same local feel as other areas in Athens.

How to Get From Athens Airport to the City Center

Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) provides visitors with many public transportation options to and from the Athens city center. Travel times take an average of 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

The best ways to get from the Athens airport to downtown are:

• Airport transfer

The metro (blue, line three) runs from Athens airport, with stops at Syntagma Square and Monastiraki . Trains operate every 30 minutes from the airport between 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m., with stations clearly identified in English and Greek. From Monastriraki to the airport, trains operate between 5:38 a.m. and 11:04 p.m., and from Syntagma, 5:40 a.m. to 11:06 p.m. This takes around 40 minutes, with a ticket costing about eight euros.

Suburban Railway

The suburban railway (“proastiakos”) has electric trains departing the Athens Airport Station every 15 to 25 minutes between 5:52 a.m. and 10:50 p.m., taking you to Plakentias Station, the central Athens station located in the district of Kolonos/Colonos. From here, you can switch to the metro and continue to the city center with the same ticket.

From the central Athens station to the airport, trains run between 4:30 a.m. to 9:03 p.m., Monday through Friday. Travel takes around 40 minutes, with a price of 10 euros.

Express Buses

Express buses operate 24/7 with services every 30 to 60 minutes, with times taking between 40 to 60 minutes and tickets costing around six euros. The Express bus stop can be found outside exits four and five—there are various routes, but X95 to Syntagma Square and X93 to the Intercity Bus Station are the most popular for tourists.

Taxis wait outside of the Arrivals Hall on level three. There is an official flat rate fee from the airport to the city center, with journeys taking 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

The daytime flat rate fare is 40 euros, with a flat rate fee of 55 euros for journeys between midnight and 5:00 a.m. (determined by arrival rather than departure time)

Solo Travel Greece: Public Transportation

Getting around Athens by public transport is easy thanks to the metro, a convenient way to visit various spots in the city.

The Athens Metro has three lines you can access with your metro ticket. Line one will take you to Piraeus, line two goes to Syntagma Square and the Acropolis, and line three leads to the Athens International Airport with a stop at Syntagma Square.

The metro leaves every three minutes and runs for most of the day (about 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.), so you can easily catch a ride wherever you need. Unfortunately, there’s no Uber in Athens, but there is a downloadable taxi app called Beat that’s virtually the same.

Best Places to Stay When Traveling to Athens Greece

There are many places to stay in Athens, and these are some of the best options for solo travelers.

Herodion Hotel

The Herodion Hotel is situated beneath the Acropolis , making it the perfect place to stay for unique views. The hotel features many great amenities for travelers, including a rooftop garden, soundproof windows, and a restaurant serving tasty Greek dishes.

This modern hotel is near many top places to see in Athens, like Zappeion Hall and the Syntagma Metro Station. If you want to be centrally located, this is a great choice. The rooms at InnAthens are decorated beautifully, including marble bathrooms and free WiFi. The hotel is also known for its bar and restaurant, which serves guests a large traditional Greek breakfast.

360 Degrees

360 Degrees is a trendy hotel famous for its stunning panoramic views and rooftop bar. The rooms here feature free WiFi and special seating areas for ultimate comfort.

Athens Studios

If you’re on a budget, check out Athens Studios . Situated near the Acropolis Museum, this hotel offers spacious rooms, many featuring kitchenettes and balconies. This hotel also has a bar where you can grab a drink and try fresh local cuisine.

Is Greece Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Best Areas to Stay

If you’re a woman eager to solo travel to Athens, consider these areas, which cater to the unique needs of solo female travelers .

Plaka is a charming area of Athens known for its cobblestone streets and quaint shops. It’s bordered by a small neighborhood hidden among fragrant and colorful plants that will take your breath away. It’s the perfect place to experience a cozy and traditional Greek atmosphere.

Monastiraki

This neighborhood has ancient ruins like Hadrian’s Library and the Ancient Agora. There are also many museums, home to many rare artifacts discovered in archeological digs around Greece. Besides this, Monastiraki is also known for its variety of flea markets scattered around Monastiraki Square, selling everything from handmade soap to antiques. There are also many cafes and unique restaurants where you can grab a drink or bite to eat.

Syntagma Square

As the central square of Athens, Syntagma Square is a highly historic area of Greece. It has weathered many battles throughout World War II and has been the location of many political rallies, making it one of the most popular places to see in Athens.

Syntagma Square is home to the Greek Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Syntagma Metro Station, a transportation hub and an archeological museum.

Additionally, you’ll find plenty of food vendors selling delicious Greek treats like koulouri, a hot bread ring sprinkled with sesame seeds. Also, visit the nearby Ermou Square, home to numerous cafes and eateries.

The Acropolis is a must-stop place for anyone traveling to Athens Greece. Not only is it historic, but it’s also an important cultural spot. You can tour the grounds and view nearby archeological digs. I also suggest signing up for a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Athens Travel Guide Planning

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m traveling?

I strongly recommend using  Bookaway . You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours?

I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Is Athens Safe? Solo Travel Tips

While Athens is a relatively safe city to wander around, there are several things to be aware of, including pickpockets. Pickpockets are abundant in the city, especially at the metro and other heavily crowded places. Try not to carry many possessions with you, especially expensive ones. To protect your wallet or purse, place it in front of you so you can keep a close eye on it.

Avoid staying in certain spots that can be extremely crowded and dangerous for solo travelers . You’ll want to avoid the areas around Omonoia Square , the Larissa Train Station, and Metaxourgeio. These should be avoided at night since the streets and sidewalks are poorly lit.

As the capital of Greece, Athens is a great place for solo travelers , full of cultural wonders and unique things to see and do. Athens is also home to a mouthwatering array of food that will surely please foodies.

While there are several essential things solo travelers should remember, Athens is a relatively safe city and the perfect Greece solo travel destination.

Chrysoula’s blog, Travel Passionate, is in English and French, focusing on luxury travel and cultural and culinary experiences worldwide. She enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and is interested in presenting the best locations, attractions, and accommodations in each area she visits. You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When it comes to deciding where to go next, Greece is a usually a slam dunk. Whether it's a beachy island getaway you're after or an Athens (or perhaps Thessaloniki) city break that blends sightseeing by day with ouzo gulping by night, the mythic Mediterranean country ticks all the right boxes for classic holidays but wait -- there's more. Lots more.

Landing in Athens is the easy bit, but once you're on terra firma you'll find yourself immersed in both an epic history and some rather iconic landscapes, too. How you navigate this richness is largely up to you, but the more you know before you go, the more capably you can decode all those big fat Greek travel mysteries. Keep the following things in mind to help you steer clear of the cliches and make the most out of your experiences in Greece.

1. Don't just make the Acropolis in Athens your priority

Making the Acropolis the focus of a jaunt to Athens is like making a trip to Paris about visiting the Eiffel Tower -- so don't do it. Instead, do like the Athenians do and drink in views of the sacred rock from any number of rooftop bars and restaurants in the vicinity, or better yet wake up to a view of it from your hotel room . And the best views of Athens as a whole are actually from the top of Mount Lycavittos anyway (take the funicular in the Kolonaki neighborhood to the top).

Dodge the tourist crowds marching up to the Parthenon and instead inspect the arguably more evocative ruins at the foot of the Acropolis in the ancient agora area. I'd also suggest skipping the Acropolis Museum and diverting your cultural hours to the National Archaeological Museum across town. It's a bit fusty but still the best museum in Greece. Essential smaller museums include the Benaki Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art, both of which blend ancient artifacts with excellent contemporary exhibitions. If you fancy a Picasso or Van Gogh fix, the brand-new Goulandris museum is a must.

2. Don't just feast on gyro

I've seen this over and over (and over) again: tourists who enjoy a hearty international-style buffet breakfast at their hotel and then opt for a gyro or souvlaki platter for lunch and then again for dinner. Don't get me wrong, authentic Greek gyros are pretty scrumptious and at about three euros each are fiscally attractive dining options too. But Greek gastronomy is more diverse than that and experiencing at least some of it can be a highlight of your trip.

To savor a Greek breakfast staple you'll almost never find at a hotel buffet, try strapatsada, a delectable dish made with eggs (usually scrambled), feta cheese, fresh tomato sauce and a dash of olive oil. One of the best is served at the restaurant of the Acropolis Museum (you don't have to pay for museum admission to eat at the restaurant). For the best seafood, shun the touristy tavernas around the Plaka and head instead to Piraeus, where the seafood is generally cheaper, fresher and comes with sea views, too. Vegan restaurants are also taking off, particularly in Athens.

3. Find your nearest laiki

The spirit of ancient Greece lives on in the weekly laiki, or outdoor fruit and vegetable market that takes place rain or shine throughout the year on Fridays. A visit to a laiki is a great way to get an eyeful and taste of nature's bounty for which Greece is justly famous for. Every neighborhood in Athens has its own laiki and some are bigger and better than others. One of the best is in Pagrati, on Archimidous Street right behind the Panathenaic Stadium (the world's only stadium built entirely of marble). Besides organic produce you'll find plenty of traditional comestibles like extra-virgin olive oil, halva and honey for sale.

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

One of the greatest Greek myths is that the many islands are strictly for summertime escapes, but that's far from the case. True, many islands rock their Greek summer vibes best in the peak months of July and August (the months that also pull the most crowds), but swimming season heats up as early as May and in many places doesn't wind down until November. Little islands near Athens like Hydra and Spetses are worth visiting even in winter and big islands like Crete have plenty of cultural attractions and historic sites to keep you busy throughout the year.

5. Don't take a three-island day cruise

When you are in the Piraeus port you'll see many advertisements for three-island cruises that promise you a mini-odyssey to a trio of islands close to Athens. Generally these are Aegina, Hydra and Poros. Focus on one island instead. Packing three islands into a single day trip is something that Greeks themselves would never do, it diminishes both the quantity and quality of your time. If you are really into ancient ruins, spend time on Aegina. For dramatic scenery, Hydra's the spot. Among all the islands within an easy ferry journey from Athens/Piraeus, Poros easily qualifies as the quiet charmer where you could linger for hours over Greek coffees and delightful harbor views.

6. Greek islands aren't just for hitting the beach

Greece has some 6,000 islands, of which about 227 are inhabited. That represents a lot of geographical diversity. Some islands have gorgeous beaches -- think Mykonos, Kefalonia and Corfu -- while others have a mix of decent beaches and landscapes that offer up the possibility of more varied activities. Kalymnos is the place for rock climbing and bouldering, Paros is ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, Sifnos and Tinos (and to a certain extent Santorini) are much favored by foodies and so forth. The shoulder season, April to June and also October, is often ideal for these beyond-the-beach pursuits.

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

Two essential Santorini travel facts: the first is that yes, it's a geologically unique island and the second is that yes, you should probably also skip it. How dare I? Well, due to far too many cruise ships disgorging way too many people onto such a small place, the wisp of an island has degenerated into a sort of hyper-sanitized Selfie Island and really, how much fun is that? The views over the volcanic caldera are cool as are the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri but the beaches aren't great and the good hotels and restaurants tend to be overpriced.

So check it out if you must but make sure you avoid the months of June, July, August and now all of September too. Other Aegean islands beckon with their own brand of gorgeousness, whether that be breezy Andros, volcanic Milos and myriad others.

Read more: Which European countries don't use the euro currency and why?

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

Greeks celebrate Easter with a fervor most Europeans reserve for Christmas -- and the enthusiasm has a distinctly noncommercial flavor at that. The Greek Orthodox Church still holds sway over many aspects of contemporary Greek life and Easter week is when some of the more celebratory aspects really kick in, with all manner of feasts and public processions that begin on Palm Sunday and vary from location to location but that are particularly colorful on islands like Corfu.

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

Because in many respects it is. Starting with size: Crete is 160 miles from one end to the other and is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. That means it's difficult to see it all in a single take, nor should you try. The landscapes are stunningly varied and unlike the more stereotypical Greek island getaways the Cretan economy is not wholly dependent on tourism: historic cities like Heraklion and Chania also have a youthful vibrancy that's hard to resist.

There are numerous nonstop flights from Crete's two major airports in Heraklion and Chania in the peak summer season and year-round connections from Athens. From Athens/Piraeus there are also daily ferry departures, they typically leave around 9 p.m. and arrive in Crete at 6 a.m. While these ferries resemble small cruise ships with plenty of seating options (including cabins), a flight on Aegean will you get from Athens to Crete in just about an hour.

10. Remember the mainland

Greece is more than Athens and the islands. The region of which Athens is a part, Attica, is home to some of the most important sites in antiquity from Marathon to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon. South and east of the Greek capital, the Peloponnese offers a dramatically chiseled coastline and plenty of historical gems too, like the city of Nafplion -- the first capital of Greece -- and the remarkable fortress isle of Monemvasia. The northern city of Thessaloniki, named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, is worth a detour for its history, museums and excellent restaurants.

11. You needn't spend a fortune to have a blast in Mykonos

Stick around Greece for any length of time and you're bound to hear Greeks bemoan how Mykonos has become an enclave affordable only for the likes of Arab princes and their consorts (who may or may not include Lindsay Lohan). While there is some truth to that, don't let it put you off a visit because the cosmopolitan Mykonos vibe is something you won't find anywhere else. The small Cycladic island has some of the best beaches, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs in the Mediterranean. July and August are the months to avoid, but if you can manage to hit Mykonos in June or September, you'll probably have a great time and without necessarily breaking the bank.

Bottom line

Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody thinks they already know the place and to varying degrees maybe they do, but not unlike Madonna, there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. It's when you avoid insisting on the cliches -- you probably don't need a whole day to snap selfies at the Acropolis or an overpriced seafood lunch in the touristy center of Mykonos town -- that the colors of Greece really begin to reveal themselves. And if you can avoid those peak crowded months of July (especially the second half) and August you'll very likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall.

A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Athens Solo Travel Guide For First Timers: Tips + Map

Thinking of traveling alone to the capital of Greece? I have been to Athens, Greece multiple times on my own and consider myself a solo travel expert.

And if you were hoping to get help from a local , you are in luck! I have permanently relocated to Athenfs full-time!

Athens, the capital of Greece, is an exciting city with plenty to offer solo travelers!

But there are a few things you should know before you get to Athens. In this guide, I will get real with you and tell you what you can expect so there are no surprises.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

My Solo Travel Experience in Athens

Athens truly has something for everyone, but I will tell you a little secret. The first time I visited Athens , I didn’t like it! Athens is a bit gritty and not all that visually appealing.

I visited Athens on my first solo trip ever and I wasn’t very impressed! Since that first trip many years ago I returned to Athens year after year and fell so in love with the city!

My experience living in Athens gives me an advantage over just your average traveler. I know the best places to eat and stay and what to do in this incredible and historic city.

I created this ultimate guide so that you will have all the information you need to make your solo trip to Athens a great one!

Why Is Athens So Popular?

Athens is most renowned for its historical and archaeological sites, which include the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora.

The great city also boasts numerous museums, street art, galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions making it the ideal destination for solo travel.

Athens is home to some of Europe’s finest restaurants featuring delectable Greek cuisine, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

And for the outdoor enthusiast, Athens is surrounded by some stunning beaches as well as many nearby mountains ideal for hiking and mountain biking.

With so much to do and see, you can see why I traveled here over and over again.

💰 Best Solo Travel Athens Tip : Save time and money by purchasing tickets to the most important sites in Athens here! Tickets with Skip the Line to the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Museums !

Why is Athens Good for Solo Travel?

I find Athens a great destination for solo travel because of its relaxed atmosphere. It’s also an excellent destination for solo travelers due to the fact it is more affordable than other European cities.

Athens is full of other solo travelers, expats, welcoming locals, and so many attractions so you’ll never be bored.

Athens has plenty of public transportation options that allow you to easily explore the city’s many sights affordably.

Truly, I found Athens to be one of the most welcoming cities in Europe for solo travelers!

Is Athens Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Athens is generally considered safe for solo female travelers! I have first-hand experience in the city, and I never worry about my physical safety.

You can look on crime sites and see for yourself that violent crime is extremely low .

However, as with any destination, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Athens solo female travellers should keep their valuables close at all times and avoid traveling alone late at night.

Just like in other major cities, you want to keep your wallet close. There are several nifty products on the market now that help hide it.

One day on a very busy shopping street in Athens I was being pretty careless and I got my wallet taken from my purse without me knowing.

Pickpocketing is on the rise in just about any major city, so don’t let my story deter you.

With a bit of extra caution and common sense, solo female travelers can easily explore Athens safely and without worry.

Things To Avoid Alone in Athens

Solo travelers should always take extra precautions while exploring the busiest tourist areas in Athens. Pickpockets are on the rise in almost every major city.

I don’t say this to scare you off, just be smart. Chances are you won’t have any trouble.

After I had my wallet stolen out of my tote bag, I upgraded my travel style to include using a money belt and anti-theft scarfs .

When exploring Athens alone , it’s wise to stay clear of less populated areas late at night and to be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, as these could be ploys for scams.

Athens is generally a very safe city, it is best to always trust your instincts when traveling alone. By following these safety tips, solo travelers can enjoy a worry-free stay in Athens.

5 Great Tips for Exploring Athens Alone

1. Learn some basic Greek phrases to help you get around the city and interact with locals. A little goes a long way here!

2. Make sure to look up all of the ancient sites, museums, and other attractions in Athens before your visit so you can plan your solo trip itinerary accordingly. Whenever possible, book a tour or get a skip-the-line pass .

3. If you’re traveling alone at night, make sure to take extra precautions and stay in well-lit, populated areas. When I am traveling solo I don’t have more than one alcoholic drink .

4. Purchase a public transportation pass to make it easier to explore the city and save money on taxi rides.

5. Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available in Athens such as hiking, kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling. These activities are a great way to explore the city and meet new people.

Is Athens worth visiting alone?

I found that visiting Athens city was better to visit alone than with other people. When there is so much to explore in the city centre of Athens it is nice to do it at your own pace.

Solo travel means no compromise! You can explore this wonderful city and all the sites just as you want to!

I prefer to travel solo in Athens and save the group trips for resorts where there isn’t that much to do but chill at the beach.

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

Getting Around Athens Solo

If you are new to solo travel and the idea of using public transport seems a little daunting, I get it.

Rest assured, using public transit in Athens is safe and easy. The Athens Metro is a great way for solo travelers to get around. The city is also served by a network of buses and trolley lines that cover the entire city.

Additionally, there are many taxis available throughout Athens, although they can be expensive if you’re traveling long distances.

🚕 SOLO TRAVEL TAXI TIP: Most taxis DO NOT TAKE CREDIT CARDS . Always ask before getting in the taxi or have plenty of cash on hand.

For those looking for a cheaper alternative, the city also has an extensive bike-sharing system that allows visitors to easily explore Athens on two wheels.

With so many transportation options available, solo travelers can easily get around Athens without any hassle.

📲 Downloadable Map of Athens

📍 Download the FREE Google Map with the Major Sights Pre-pinned and ready to use!

📍Get the PREMIUM Google Map with over 60 + pinned locations of the best restaurants, rooftops, cafes, sights, transit hubs, and more!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Tips for Arriving at Athens International Airport

If you are flying into Athens airport at night, I would recommend you arrange an airport transfer to take you to your hotel.

As a solo female traveller, my priority is to create the least stressful experience when arriving at my destination.

If you arrange for transportation ahead of time you can rest assured you will have a smooth arrival.

There is public transport from the Athens airport to the city center, and it is a great option for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of luggage.

🚐 Book an airport transfer pick-up at Athens Airport! It’s nearly the same price as a taxi , with no waiting ; )

Should I Rent a Car in Athens, Greece?

Renting a car in Athens is only going to be necessary if you want the freedom to explore the area outside the city center.

You also may want to take your car aboard the ferry if you are going to certain Greek islands where it’s a good idea to have a car.

If you do rent a car in Athens, find a hotel that has parking so you can avoid the stress of parking on the narrow streets.

When I rent a car in Greece I always use Discover Cars , they simply have the best deals!

How Many Days Should You Spend in Athens By Yourself?

The amount of time you spend in Athens will depend on what type of experience you’re looking for. When I first visited Athens it was for only a couple of days .

I was more interested in visiting Greek island destinations so I didn’t stay long in Athens.

The second time I visited Athens alone I spent 10 days here, in November .

When planning your solo trip to Greece, consider how much you love ancient archeological sites and museums.

If you’re just looking to take a quick tour of the city, then two or three days may be enough.

However, if you want to truly experience the Greek culture and all Athens has to offer, then it is best to stay at least a week.

This way, you will have enough time to explore its numerous attractions and take advantage of the many day trips you can take .

The more time you have, you can explore nearby islands by ferry .

Related: All the best Greek islands for solo travel

Things to Do Solo in Athens

Athens is home to numerous landmark attractions, many of which date back thousands of years. I loved exploring Athens city by myself because I could take as much or as little time as I wanted.

Some of the city’s must-see sights for a solo female traveller include the Acropolis, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, and National Archaeological Museum, along with a variety of other ancient monuments and temples.

Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

I highly recommend getting a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Joining a tour is a great way to meet other solo travellers and it is an efficient way to move through such an incredible monument.

I like this tour because it’s affordable and it hits the majority of the sites you don’t want to miss.

April 1 to October 31: You can visit the Acropolis daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, with the last entry being at 7:30 PM. Tickets are 30 euros

November 1 to March 31, it is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. Tickets are 20 euros.

Acropolis Free Entry Days

• March 6 – Memory of Melina Merkouris
• April 18 – International Memorial Day
• May 18 – International Museum Day
• The last weekend of September each year (European Heritage Days)
• Every first Sunday of the month from November 1 to March 31.

The Acropolis is Closed for Major Holidays

• Easter Sunday
• December 25
• December 26

Look for Treasure in Monastiraki Square

This famous square is known for the Monastiraki Flea Market and is a great place to find a bargain. It is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Athens, this is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and handmade items.

The flea market is open every day of the week from 10 am to 10 pm. If you staying inside the city centre, you can reach Monastiraki Square by foot.

If you are a little further out, you can take public transport to the Monastiraki Metro Station.

Stroll Plaka

The old historic district of Athens, this neighborhood is full of charming cobblestone streets and traditional Greek taverns.

The Plaka district is a great place to spend an afternoon or early evening out. With its colorful streets lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, it’s the perfect spot for solo travellers looking to experience local culture.

I recommend going early in the morning to enjoy some people-watching as the locals prepare for their day ahead. A restaurant I love in Plaka is Zorbas !

Wonder The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens houses some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece, including sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and more.

You can often get entry to this museum when you purchase tickets to the Acropolis.

Opening Times: November 1 to March 31 , Admission 6 euros. Tuesdays 13:00 to 20:00. Wednesday through Monday 8:30 to 15:30. April 1 to October 31, Admission 12 euros. Tuesdays 13:00 to 20:00. Wednesdays through Mondays 8:00 to 20:00.

Chill in Syntagma Square

Located in the center of Athens, this square is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament building and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

There is a major metro station here at Syntagma Square as well as some of the nicest hotels with rooftop pools!

If you are looking to do some shopping the start of Ermou Street starts here.

Climb Lycabettus Hill

This hill offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a picnic. Located a bit outside the city center at the back of the Koloanki neighborhood.

You can feel safe traveling here on foot as a solo woman. There are A LOT of hills and stairs if you choose to walk. So prepare yourself.

❤︎ See Lycabettus Hill at sunset as well as visit Pireaus Port on a tour!

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The remains of the Temple of Olympian Zeus are located just at the foot of the old historical town of Athens. If you have time on your trip you can take a tour within the park.

When short on time, you could just do a walk-by. The temple is located here.

Eat in Agora

Located in the heart of Athens, this ancient marketplace is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

National Gallery

This impressive gallery boasts one of Europe’s greatest collections of modern art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

These are just a few of the amazing attractions that solo travelers can visit in Athens. With so much to see and do, this vibrant city is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!

What is a unique experience I could have while visiting Athens?

Athens is full of unique experiences for solo travelers. One such experience is attending one of the city’s many outdoor free concerts and dance events. Find information here .

The city also offers interesting tours which provide an in-depth look at its culture and history. From traditional Greek Food tours to guided pub crawl walking tours! If you love trying new foods, I recommend this Athens food tour .

There is a number of ways to experience the city’s numerous archaeological sites. Something unique to do in Athens alone is to pack a picnic of your favorite Greek foods and enjoy them in the park across from the Acropolis. Here is the best spot for incredible views.

What is the Best time of Year to Visit Athens?

Athens is a great destination for solo travelers all year round . However, the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is warm and sunny.

Visiting mainland Greece in the summer months is HOT, HOT, HOT . Athens might be best saved for the milder temperatures, like in November or December for example. If you do come in summer, check out the best beaches near Athens .

Taking a leisurely stroll through the Ancient Agora is more fun when you trying to hide from the sun.

If you are planning to head to a small island or two you will want to visit in the summer. Most of the Greek Islands shut down as of October 1st.

Pro Tip: Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Neighborhoods to Stay Solo in Athens

Staying in a neighborhood where I feel comfortable walking alone at night is the priority. Consider the following;

➡️ Monastiraki: For solo travelers looking for a lively atmosphere and budget-friendly check out the district of Monastiraki . It is ideal with plenty of restaurants and bars lined up along the pedestrian-only street.

➡️ Plaka: If you’re looking for something more laid back and residential , check out Plaka , a picturesque neighborhood filled with cafes and boutique shops .

➡️ Kolonaki: For a more upscale experience, Kolonaki is your best bet , offering designer stores and luxurious hotels.

➡️ Psiri: If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, Psiri offers plenty of cheap lodging options as well as lively nightlife.

➡️ Koukaki: Another idea is to stay in the Koukaki neighborhood , where I currently reside. You will find lots of great coffee shops and places to eat. Ideal spot for digital nomads in Greece. I can’t recommend Coco-Mat Athens BC enough!

Related: Best Hotels in Athens with Rooftop Pools

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Athens

• Metaxourgeio : Although it has a growing art scene, it’s best to be cautious after dark due to a higher crime rate in certain parts.
• Kolonos : An area that is generally considered less safe, especially at night, due to increased risks of crime.
• Patisia : While it has residential parts, some areas can feel unsafe at night. It’s wise to stick to well-lit, busier streets.
• Kypseli : This neighborhood has a lively cultural scene but can be risky late at night in less crowded areas.
• Omonoia Square : This area can be crowded and a bit unsafe at night, with more risks of petty theft.
• Near Larissa Station : This is the main railway station, and like many transport hubs, it’s best to be extra cautious here at night due to a higher chance of encountering trouble.

Must Try Restaurants When You Visit Athens

Athens is filled with amazing restaurants and hip cafes . The best part of solo travel to Athens is getting to eat all the delicious food!

Some must-try restaurants include:

• Atlantikos- I have had some of the best seafood of my life here in Athens at Atlantikos ! Serving up traditional Greek seafood taverna fare and other classics like a Greek salad. This place is located in Psiri and does get very busy, but it is worth the wait!
• NiDo – Are you a solo traveling foodie? If so, I highly recommend checking out NiDo! Here you will find a gastro-bar with funky bites and a trendy atmosphere. All the delightful and creative cuisine is curated by Chef Nick Thomas. You will find NiDo located in Kolonaki .
• Winners Vegan- You don’t have to be a vegan to enjoy the food at Winners Vegan! I have had some of the best plant-based meals at this restaurant. My recommendation is to try the noodle dishes!
• Mystilli – Looking for some traditional Greek food like Mousska? For the best meal at the Agora try Mystilli. It’s the perfect place to sit outside and people-watch while devouring some classic Greek dishes. You will find Mystilli here .

Day Trips From Athens to Consider

Athens is surrounded by stunning natural scenery that makes for the perfect day trip destination.

Popular destinations include Cape Sounion, where you can admire the Temple of Poseidon perched atop the rocky cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea.

You can also visit Delphi, an ancient Greek city located about two and a half hours from Athens that was once considered to be the center of the world.

Here, you’ll find stunning beaches and charming villages that will make for a perfect day trip .

Additionally, the nearby islands of Hydra, Aegina, and Poros are all easily accessible from Athens and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. No matter where you decide to go, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Athens that will surely satisfy

RELATED: GREEK ISLANDS BEST FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Conclusion On Visiting Athens Alone

Visiting Athens solo is an incredible experience. The vibrant city offers plenty of attractions, activities, and experiences that will make your visit enjoyable and unforgettable.

From the historical sites to the delicious cuisine, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, trying different restaurants, and exploring the city.

With its convenient location, vibrant atmosphere, and range of luxury and affordable accommodation options, Athens is a great place to stay for solo travelers. No matter where you decide to stay in Athens, you can be sure that you will have a wonderful experience!

Love This Guide? Pin it for later!

Ready to Explore

More of greece.

🫶 Did you enjoy this article? Help fellow travelers and share this guide with the buttons below!

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

Related Posts

Are Solo Trips to Greece Safe For Women? The Truth From Female Travelers

If you are wondering “is Greece safe for solo female travellers” you’ve come to the right place. I have been taking solo trips to Greece for the past 10 years! It’s definitely a safe place for women to travel. In 2023, I moved and found a new home in Athens, a place where I’ve always…

Foolproof Copenhagen 3 Day Itinerary + Map

Three days in Copenhagen will go by in the blink of an eye, so if you need help to craft a truly foolproof Copenhagen 3-day itinerary, I’ve got you covered. I’ve been to Copenhagen so many times, I consider myself a local. My itinerary, ideal for first-timers, hits every must-see spot and hip restaurant, in…

Ultimate Guide For a Safe Solo Trip to Amsterdam + Map

Back in the day, when I was figuring out the ropes of solo travel, safety was my top priority. I’d spend hours searching “Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?” and looking for the safest places to stay. Now, after hitting up Amsterdam solo on three different occasions over the years, I’ve decided to put…

The Complete Day Trip to Verona Itinerary & Guide + Map

Let me take you on a day trip to one of my favorite Italian cities, VERONA! I’ve been to this picturesque town twice in the last few years! It is one of the easiest places to reach from nearby destinations such as Milan, Florence, and Bologna! Depending on where you are in Northern Italy, Verona…

The 5 Reasons & Life-Changing Benefits of Traveling Alone

Traveling alone is a life-changing step towards achieving inner confidence and strength. Once I started traveling, my world began to open up, and what I wanted for myself began to change rapidly. With each trip I took, I learned something new, and my life goals adjusted. I want to share my story and talk about…

The Top 5 Concerns For Solo Female Travelers

So you are planning on traveling solo? Hi, I’m Melissa, a single woman traveling alone for over a decade now. I’m very familiar with the questions should you be asking yourself about traveling by yourself. This whole site is a dedicated resource and guide to all things solo female travel. Once you declare your adventurous…

What are you looking for?

10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

• Main content

The Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Visit in Greece

H ave you ever felt the pull of ancient wonders and sun-soaked shores calling your name? If Greece isn't on your travel radar yet, it should be. But with so many iconic destinations, where should one start?

Problem: Greece, with its vast landscapes and historic locales, can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Where should one begin?

Agitate: Imagine landing in Greece and realizing you've missed some of its hidden gems or spent too much time at overly crowded tourist traps.

Solve: Fear not! We've got you covered with the creme de la creme of Greek destinations.

• The magnetism of Athens
• Santorini's sunsets are a dream
• Crete: A blend of beaches and history
• Delving into Delphi
• Rhodes: A medieval wonder

A Journey Through Time: Athens

The beating heart of Greece, Athens beautifully melds the ancient with the modern. Its centerpiece, the Acropolis, stands as a testament to Greece's glorious past and is one of the country's 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites .

Santorini's Sun-Kissed Beauty

If you've seen a postcard-perfect picture of Greece, chances are it was from Santorini. Famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and white-washed buildings, it's no wonder it's one of Greece's top destinations.

Crete's Diverse Charm

Crete offers an eclectic mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lively towns. Don't miss the Palace of Knossos, a key Minoan site.

Delphi: The Ancient World's Navel

Once believed to be the center of the world in ancient Greek religion, Delphi offers a spiritual and historical journey like no other.

Rhodes: A Walk Through Medieval Times

Stroll the Street of the Knights in Rhodes and be transported back to the Middle Ages. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts of palaces, towers, and delightful surprises at every turn.

"Greece is a good place to look at the moon, isn’t it?" Hemingway wasn't wrong. Whether you're gazing at a starlit sky in a rural village or soaking in the moon's reflection over the Aegean, Greece's beauty is truly enchanting.

Kevin's Insider Tips

For a real treat, visit the lesser-known island of Naxos. With its pristine beaches and ancient temples, it's a slice of untouched Greece. And when in Athens, seek out the small tavernas where locals dine to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at its best.

The Essence of Greek Hospitality

There's an ancient Greek word, philoxenia , which translates to 'friend to the stranger' or 'love of strangers.' It epitomizes the Greek approach to hospitality, showcasing their warmth and open-heartedness. As you traverse the historic streets of Athens, or meander through the quaint alleyways of islands like Corfu and Paros, this spirit is palpable.

Mythology and Modern Greece

The tales of gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters have been intricately woven into Greece's cultural fabric. Every mountain, spring, or grove has its story, its legend. For instance, Mount Olympus is not just a mountaineering marvel; it's the legendary abode of the gods. The Oracle of Delphi wasn't just a priestess; she was the voice of the god Apollo, speaking in riddles. In modern Greece, these tales aren't mere stories; they're a testament to the nation's rich history and ethos. While visiting, Kevin Erickson suggests attending a local storytelling session or a mythological tour. It provides an immersive experience, allowing you to view famous sites through the lens of ancient tales.

Local Festivals – A Glimpse into Greek Culture

If there's one thing that stands out about Greece, it's the zest for life exhibited by its people. Throughout the year, numerous festivals and events take place across the country. Whether it's the Carnival with its vibrant parades, the Sardine Festival in Lesvos celebrating the humble fish, or the Athens & Epidaurus Festival showcasing theater, dance, and music – there's always something happening. For travelers, attending these festivals offers an authentic taste of Greek culture, far removed from the usual tourist traps. Kevin's pro tip: Always check the local calendar of the place you're visiting. You might stumble upon a local celebration, providing memories to last a lifetime .

Incorporating these elements into your journey transforms it from a mere trip to a soulful experience, filled with stories, flavors, and the undying spirit of philoxenia . Greece, with its blend of the ancient and the modern, awaits with open arms.

From its iconic sites to its hidden gems, Greece promises an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags , and let the allure of olive groves, ancient ruins, and azure waters draw you in.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

The ideal period is during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

Is Greece expensive for tourists?

Greece offers a range of options for different budgets. While some islands like Mykonos can be pricier, there are many affordable destinations and choices.

Do locals speak English?

In tourist areas and cities, many Greeks speak English, especially the younger generation. However, it's appreciated if you learn a few basic Greek phrases.

Is Greece safe for travelers?

Greece is generally safe for travelers, but as with any destination, it's essential to take standard precautions.

What's the local cuisine like?

Greek cuisine is a Mediterranean delight! From moussaka to souvlaki and fresh seafood, there's a plethora of dishes to try.