The Acropolis, ancient ruins, and the gateway to the Greek islands.
Athens packs five thousand years of history under the Acropolis - then surprises you with a buzzing food and bar scene in its old neighbourhoods, and ferries from nearby Piraeus to the islands the moment you want the sea.
World-changing ancient sites, a warm and walkable centre, great-value food and wine, and the easiest springboard to the Cyclades and the rest of the Greek islands.
April to June and September to October - warm, clear and comfortable. July-August is very hot and busy; winter is mild and quiet.
Climb to the Acropolis at opening or up Lycabettus Hill for sunrise, before the heat and the crowds.
Runs through the National Garden and up the pine-covered Lycabettus and Filopappou hills.
Stay in residential Koukaki or Pangrati rather than the busiest Plaka tourist lanes.
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The old town under the Acropolis - neoclassical lanes, tavernas and the most central, walkable base.
Markets, street art and the liveliest nightlife and food - lively and central, a step grittier than Plaka.
A trendy, local neighbourhood by the Acropolis Museum - boutique hotels and great restaurants, quieter at night.
Not sure which area suits you? We compare 5 Athens neighbourhoods — who each one is for, and the honest reason not to book there.
Where to stay in Athens — full area guide →No - UK visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area.
The metro (Line 3) runs from the airport to Syntagma in the centre in about 40 minutes; the X95 express bus runs 24 hours.
Yes - ferries leave the port of Piraeus (a 30-minute metro ride) for the Cyclades, including Mykonos and Santorini, all summer.
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