Athens

Europe Eastern Mediterranean Europe Greece Central Greece Attica Athens

For other places with the same name, see Athens (disambiguation)

By Plane

Athens International Airport 'Eleftherios Venizelos' (ATH) is 35 km east of the city centre, connected by metro (40 minutes, €9), suburban rail, express bus (X95, 1 hour, €5.50), and taxis (€38–€45 flat rate to the centre). The airport serves over 150 destinations with Aegean, Ryanair, easyJet, and most major airlines.

By Car / Road

Athens is connected to the rest of Greece by the A1/E75 to Thessaloniki and the A8/E94 to Patras and the Peloponnese. Driving in central Athens is best avoided — traffic is heavy and parking is scarce and expensive (€8–€15/day). KTEL buses and trains are better options for intercity travel.

By Ferry / Sea

Piraeus port, 12 km southwest of central Athens, is the largest passenger port in Europe, with ferries to the Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros), the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos, Patmos), Crete (Heraklion, Chania), the Saronic Islands (Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses), and the northeastern Aegean. Rafina and Lavrio ports, on the eastern Attic coast, also serve the Cyclades.

Athens is compact enough to explore on foot. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are available. Renting a car or scooter is the best way to explore the wider area independently.

• The historic centre of Athens with its traditional architecture

• Explore the town on foot, discovering its hidden corners and local character

• Take a boat trip to nearby beaches and coves

• Sample local cuisine at waterfront tavernas

• Hike or cycle in the surrounding countryside

• Local tavernas serve traditional Greek cuisine including fresh seafood, moussaka, souvlaki, and horiatiki salad
• Seaside restaurants offer freshly caught fish grilled to perfection

Cafés and bars line the waterfront and main squares, serving Greek coffee, frappé, ouzo, and local wines. Nightlife ranges from quiet tavernas with live music to modern bars.

• Budget: Guesthouses and budget hotels offer basic but clean accommodation from €30–€50/night
• Mid-range: Boutique hotels and family-run pensions from €60–€100/night
• Upscale: Premium hotels and resorts from €120–€200/night

Local specialities include olive oil, honey, wine, and traditional handicrafts. Shops in the town centre stock local products, and weekly markets are held in larger towns.

• Explore other destinations within Attikí
• Take a ferry to neighbouring islands
• Visit nearby archaeological sites and natural attractions