City break goals? Athens ticks every box. Jaw-dropping ruins, sunshine-soaked squares, gorgeous nearby beaches, and a food scene that'll have you ordering just one more mezze plate every night.
🏛️ Holidays to Athens
Acropolis & Parthenon – the big one. Iconic ruins with views that’ll have your camera roll working overtime.
Lycabettus Hill – jump on the cable car and get a 360-degree view of the city (sunset up here is next level).
Temple of Poseidon – a little drive away at Cape Sounion, but worth it for the history and horizon alone.
Open-Air Cinemas – catch a flick under the stars in one of the city’s alfresco theatres – romance, scenery and popcorn included.
🎉 Good to Know
Fun Fact - the Acropolis can be spotted from nearly anywhere in the city – handy for navigating, even better for holiday snaps.
Best Beach: Voula Beach – calm, clean waters and family-friendly vibes, just a short ride from the centre.
Price of a Pint - expect to pay around €4–€5 (£3.40–£4.25), but head to a local taverna and you might shave a euro off.
🏨 Top places to stay on your holidays to Athens
🏛️ Athens City - Stay here on your Greece holidays if you want to be within walking distance of the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the winding lanes of Plaka. It's packed with rooftop bars, museums, and tavernas serving up moussaka until the early hours. Within the centre, you've got Monastiraki (buzzy markets and street food), Psiri (nightlife central), Koukaki (trendy and local), and Kolonaki (upmarket boutiques and brunch spots). The obvious pick for Culture Vultures who want an Athens city break where they can see it all on foot.
🏖️ Glyfada - Welcome to the Athenian Riviera. Glyfada is the go-to for travellers who want sun, sand and a bit of glam without straying too far from the city. Think designer boutiques, cocktail bars, and beach clubs. It's a 30-minute tram ride from the centre, so you can easily do ruins by day and Riviera by night. Ideal if you're after an Athens beach holiday with a side of style – great for couples and groups who like their jollies with a bit of glitz.
⚓ Piraeus - Athens' historic port is the gateway to the Greek islands – so if you're planning to hop on a ferry to Mykonos, Santorini, or the Saronic Islands, staying here makes life easy. It's got a grittier, more authentic feel than the polished tourist centre, plus some seriously good seafood tavernas around Mikrolimano harbour. A smart base for island-hoppers looking to get more out of their holidays to Athens.
🌿 Vouliagmeni - This is the luxe end of the Athens coast. Pine-backed beaches, a famous thermal lake, and some of the fanciest hotels in the region. If your idea of an Athens holiday involves spa treatments, upmarket dining and crystal-clear water, Vouliagmeni is calling your name. It's quieter and more relaxed than Glyfada – perfect for couples or anyone after a slower pace on their beach holiday in Athens.
🏝️ Lagonissi - A little further down the coast, Lagonissi is a quieter coastal option with resort-style hotels and calm, family-friendly beaches. It's a bit more tucked away, making it ideal for travellers who want the best of both worlds – beach relaxation with easy access to Athens for day trips. A top pick for cheap holidays to Athens that still feel like a proper escape.
🌅 Sounio - Right on the tip of the Attica peninsula, Sounio is home to the famous Temple of Poseidon – and some seriously spectacular sunsets. It's a brilliant base if you want dramatic clifftop views, quieter beaches, and a more off-the-beaten-path feel. Ideal for history lovers and romantics looking for something different from the typical Athens city break.
Other places to stay on your Athens holidays:
Agioi Theodoroi - Agli Apostoli - Anavyssos Beach - Kamena Vourla - Kantia - Marathonas - Mati - Nea Makri - Vravrona
🏖️ What are the best beaches to visit on your Athens holidays?
While Athens might be better known for its Acropolis than its sunlounger count, don’t be fooled – the Athenian Riviera is packing some serious seaside swagger. Here are the best beaches for your city-meets-coast escape:
Voula Beach – just a tram ride from the centre, this organised beach serves up calm, shallow waters, loads of shade, and family-friendly vibes. Bonus points for cafés and sunbeds galore.
Porto Rafti – a proper local hotspot east of the city, with crystal-clear waters, chilled beach bars, and a more low-key, authentic feel. Perfect for a relaxed swim and seafood lunch after.
Alimos Beach – this glam beach club brings soft golden sands, swish loungers, and music-backed beach cocktails. It’s a fab option if you like your sunbathing with a side of scene.
Varkiza Resort Yabanaki Beach – a cracking all-rounder with beach sports, family zones, restaurants, and even waterslides. It’s like a beach day and a mini theme park rolled into one.
Glyfada Beach – chic, sandy, and just 30 minutes from central Athens, Glyfada is where stylish city locals come for a weekend flop. Think trendy cafés, beachwear boutiques and swanky cocktails on the promenade.
🧳 Your Athens holidays 2026 travel guide
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Things to do in Athens for families
Athens is a family holiday haven, bursting with big sights, wide-open spaces and plenty to keep the kids from shouting “I’m bored” every five minutes.
Head to the Acropolis Museum – it’s interactive, air-conditioned, and full of cool artefacts (plus a killer café view).
Explore the National Garden – loads of shady trees, a little zoo, and space to let off steam.
Catch a flick at Cine Thission – an open-air cinema where you can munch popcorn under the stars.
Hop on the Happy Train – this bright red mini train tours the old town and goes down a treat with the little ones.
Take a tram to Flisvos Marina – home to playgrounds, gelato stops and pirate-style ships they can clamber all over.
❤️ Things to do in Athens for couples
Whether it’s your first holiday together or you’re looking to bring back the date night magic, Athens knows how to turn on the charm.
Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill – champagne optional, but highly encouraged.
Wander hand-in-hand through Plaka’s flower-filled lanes, popping into cute cafés and craft shops.
Grab a table at a rooftop bar with views of the Acropolis – lit up at night, it’s pure rom-com material.
Explore Anafiotika – a hidden slice of island life right under the Acropolis.
Take a coastal drive to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon – history with a side of golden hour glow.
🎉 Things to do in Athens for groups
Whether you’re rolling deep with the gang or it’s a cheeky mate-cation, Athens has the goods for group holidays.
Start strong with brunch in Psiri – avo toast, freddo espresso and full Greek fry-ups all in the mix.
Hit up Monastiraki Flea Market – ideal for quirky souvenirs and a bit of people-watching.
Visit the Acropolis early (or late) to dodge crowds and get those iconic squad shots.
Spend an afternoon bar-hopping through Koukaki or Gazi – beer flights, mezze and good vibes guaranteed.
Book a group cooking class and learn how to roll your own dolmades or smash some moussaka.
🥙 Things to do in Athens for foodies
Greek food with a side of ancient ruins? Yes, please. Athens is made for grazing from taverna to taverna.
Feast on fresh gyros from street vendors – crispy, juicy, perfect.
Head to Varvakios Agora (Central Market) for local spices, olives, and sweet Greek treats.
Tuck into seafood by the coast at Mikrolimano – calamari, octopus, and fish so fresh it might still be swimming.
Try loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) with honey and cinnamon from a street cart or café.
Book a spot at a fine dining rooftop like Strofi – think modern twists on Greek classics with views of the Acropolis.
🛍️ Things to do for shopaholics
Whether you are after boujee designer threads or a cheeky bargain, the shopping scene in Athens is next level.
Ermou Street - the main pedestrianised drag running from Syntagma Square, lined with high-street favourites and international brands.
Monastiraki Flea Market - a bustling spot for vintage finds, handmade sandals, and antiques - Sundays are the busiest and best for a rummage.
Kolonaki Boutiques - head here for a splurge on upmarket designer fashion and local jewellery in a "ladies who brunch" setting.
Varvakios Agora - the central market is a sensory overload of spices, olives, and fresh local produce that's perfect for foodie souvenirs.
Plaka’s Cobbled Streets - packed with charming shops selling ceramics and traditional Greek merch, ideal for picking up gifts while sightseeing.
💶 Cheap things to do in Athens
You don’t need a massive budget to have a top-tier time in this ancient city - there are plenty of ways to see the sights on your holidays to Athens for nowt.
Free Acropolis Days - time your visit for the first Sunday of the month (Nov-Mar) or specific feast days to see the big one for free.
Changing of the Guard - watch the iconic high-kicking ceremony at Syntagma Square every hour, with a full band on Sundays at 11 am.
Areopagus Hill Sunset - skip the pricey bars and grab a drink on this rocky outcrop for front-row views of the Parthenon glowing gold.
National Garden Escape - wander 38 acres of shady paths and duck ponds right behind Parliament without spending a single euro.
Free Museum Thursdays - hit the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture on a Thursday for free entry and midnight closing vibes.
Riviera Beach Day - grab a cheap tram ticket and head to the coast for a dip in the Aegean at one of the many free public beaches.
🚗 Day trips from Athens
If you want to make your Athens jollies go further, the city is a 10/10 launchpad for exploring the rest of Greece's legendary landscapes.
Cape Sounion - an hour’s drive takes you to the Temple of Poseidon for a clifftop sunset that is absolute fire.
The Saronic Islands - hop on a ferry to Hydra, Aegina, or Poros for car-free streets, pistachio orchards, and laid-back island charm.
Delphi Ruins - visit the "centre of the world" on the slopes of Mount Parnassus to see the Temple of Apollo and ancient theatre.
Meteora Monasteries - a longer journey but worth it for gravity-defying monasteries perched on massive rock pillars that look straight-up magical.
The Peloponnese - explore the gorgeous seaside town of Nafplio or the ancient acoustics of the Epidaurus theatre for a proper history fix.
🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Athens?
When you're cooking up your perfect jolly, all the ingredients have gotta be bang on, and we reckon the most important element to the perfectly dished up jolly is the hotel of course (bonus points if you said the beach, we see you). We've got hotels to suit all rhyme and reason, whether you're looking to snag a bargain, book something on the luxury side of life, or you've made a totes last-minute decision to jet off, we've got you covered:
Royal Olympic Hotel - this is the five-star show stopper you've been dreaming of, with a poolside bar, a rooftop garden and an on-site fitness centre, y'know, just to cover all the bases.
Melia Athens - rooftop sky lounge complete with pool and city views... need we say more?
Palmyra Beach - a cheap and cheerful option only a short stroll away from the beach and Glyfada Square if you're more about getting out and exploring rather than lounging poolside.
Divani Caravel - here to give the Royal Olympic a run for its money, this five star spot is a perfect pick for a city break, we're talking on-site dining options, indoor and outdoor pools and plenty of wellness facilities from a Turkish bath to massage services and a fully-equipped gym.
Dolce by Wyndham Athens Attica Riviera - we couldn't go through all of these recs without giving you one on the beach now could we? It comes complete with a kids club, tonnes of sports facilities, evening entertainment and a delish buffet-style restaurant.
🧳 Getting around on your Athens holidays
🚇 Metro – fast, clean and super affordable. The easiest way to bounce between neighbourhoods and major sites.
🚋 Trams – great for connecting the city centre to the beachside suburbs, especially Glyfada and Voula.
🚶♂️ Walking – the historic centre is totally walkable. Plus, there’s something magical about stumbling upon ruins mid-stroll.
More Greek holidays:
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Weather in Athens
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Athens is pretty generous when it comes to good weather. Expect loads of sunshine, barely-there rain, and plenty of days that scream “get me a frappe and a sun lounger.”
Spring (March–May) – Athens starts warming up nicely from March. By May, you’re looking at high teens to low 20s (°C), perfect for sightseeing without melting into your sandals. The city’s in bloom and crowds are still chilled – a top time for culture buffs and bargain hunters.
Summer (June–August) – This is peak sun season. July and August regularly hit 30°C+, so bring the SPF and your best floppy hat. Ideal for rooftop cocktails, beach trips to Glyfada or Vouliagmeni, and long, warm evenings. Athens doesn’t shut down in summer – it sizzles.
Autumn (September–October) – Sea’s still warm, crowds are thinning, and the weather’s still lush. With highs in the mid-20s (°C) during September, it’s basically a second summer. If you’re not a fan of the full-blown heatwave, this is your sweet spot.
Winter (November–February) – Cooler, but never too cold. Expect averages around 12–15°C, fewer tourists, and plenty of bargains to bag. Some rainy days sneak in, but you’ll still get plenty of crisp blue skies. Great for cosy taverna lunches and museum-hopping without the queues.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Athens?
How long does it take to fly to Athens?
It takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to fly from the UK/Ireland to Athens.
What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Athens?
What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Athens?
Athens is two hours ahead of the time in the UK/Ireland.
What currency do they use in Athens?
What currency do they use in Athens?
The official currency of Athens is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Athens?
What language do they speak in Athens?
The official language spoken in Athens is Greek.
Is Athens worth visiting?
Is Athens worth visiting?
Absolutely. Athens isn't just a stopover on the way to the islands – it's a destination in its own right. Between the Acropolis, the buzzing food scene, rooftop bars with sunset views and easy access to beaches along the Athenian Riviera, there's more than enough to fill a long weekend (or longer). And with direct flights from the UK & Ireland taking under four hours, an Athens city break is an easy win (and life could always use more easy wins).
Is Athens expensive?
Is Athens expensive?
Compared to other European capitals, Athens is pretty reasonable – making it a top pick for cheap holidays to Athens. A pint of beer will set you back around €4–€5, and you can grab a gyros wrap for €3–€4. Sit-down meals at local tavernas are excellent value, though rooftop restaurants with Acropolis views tend to charge a bit more for the scenery. Entrance to the Acropolis is €30 (as of 2025), and you'll need to book a timed slot in advance during busy periods. The old combined ticket covering multiple archaeological sites has been scrapped, so you'll need to buy separate tickets if you want to visit places like the Ancient Agora or Temple of Zeus – or look into third-party multipass bundles that can save you a few euros.
Is Athens safe?
Is Athens safe?
Yes, Athens is generally very safe for tourists. Like any big city, it pays to keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas like Monastiraki and on public transport, but violent crime is rare. Some areas around Omonia Square can feel a bit rough around the edges at night, so stick to well-lit streets if you're out late. Overall, it's a welcoming city with friendly locals who are happy to help – you'll feel right at home on your Athens holiday.
Is Athens walkable?
Is Athens walkable?
Very. The historic centre is compact and mostly pedestrianised, so you can stroll from Syntagma Square to the Acropolis, through Plaka and into Monastiraki without breaking a sweat (well, maybe a little sweat in summer). It's one of the things that makes an Athens city break so easy to navigate. For beaches and coastal suburbs like Glyfada, the tram or metro will get you there quickly and cheaply.
How do I get from Athens airport to my hotel?
How do I get from Athens airport to my hotel?
Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is about 33km east of the city centre, so you've got a few options for getting to your digs. If you're travelling reasonably light and want to use public transport, the metro (Line 3, the Blue Line) is the quickest option – it takes around 40 minutes to Syntagma or Monastiraki and costs €10 per person. Trains run every 30 minutes from around 6:30am to 11:30pm.
If you're landing late or travelling on a budget, the X95 express bus runs 24/7 to Syntagma Square for €5.50 – it takes about an hour (longer in traffic).
Taxis charge a flat rate of €40 during the day or €55 at night, and you'll find the rank just outside arrivals. Or, if you'd rather skip the faff entirely, you can book a private transfer through us when you're putting together your package – it's an optional extra that means you know someone's waiting for you when you land, ready to whisk you straight to your hotel. Proper VIP energy.
