Athens travel guide: Acropolis, metro and flights

Flights to Athens

Payment is made on the supplier's site, not on TraveliBook.

Best time to go

April to June and September to October are the most comfortable months for walking between the ancient sites.

July and August are very hot, so plan the Acropolis and other open-air sites for early morning. Winter is mild and much quieter.

Good to know

Metro Line 3 runs between the airport and the city centre. Airport trains run every 36 minutes.
The Acropolis Museum stands at the foot of the Acropolis, so the two fit well into the same day.
In summer, lines at the Acropolis ticket office can be long, so booking ahead saves time.

Where to stay in Athens

Plaka

The old quarter at the foot of the Acropolis, with narrow lanes, neoclassical houses and tavernas. Very central and walkable, but full of tourists by day.

Koukaki

A residential area just south of the Acropolis Museum, with local cafés and a quieter feel. Close to the Acropolis entrance.

Monastiraki and Psyrri

Around the flea market and the metro station on lines 1 and 3. Busy, lively and good for food and nightlife.

Syntagma

The central square opposite Parliament. A transport hub with metro lines 2 and 3, and the airport metro stops here.

Kolonaki

An upscale area on the slopes of Lycabettus Hill, with boutiques, cafés and museums nearby.

When to fly to Athens

April to June and September to October are the most pleasant months for visiting the ancient sites.

July and August are very hot. Visit open-air sites early in the morning and spend midday indoors.

Winter is mild and quieter, though some days are rainy, and it is a good time for museums. Athens is also a gateway to the islands, which are more active in summer.

Local tips for Athens

Go to the Acropolis as early as possible: there is less heat and fewer people. Wear shoes with grip, as the marble is slippery.
The changing of the guard takes place every hour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of Parliament.
Ferries to many islands leave from the port of Piraeus, which is linked to the centre by metro line 1.
Opening hours of archaeological sites change by season. Check the Ministry of Culture site before you go.
Bring a hat and water in summer. Shade is limited at the ancient sites.

Day trips from Athens

Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon on a cliff above the sea, a popular sunset trip along the coast road.

Delphi

The sanctuary of Apollo and its museum on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, a long day by bus or car.

Aegina

The nearest of the Saronic islands, with ferries from Piraeus and the Temple of Aphaia.

Top attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike sit on the hill. Go early in summer to avoid the heat and crowds.

Tickets on Tiqets

Acropolis Museum

Holds finds from the Acropolis and its slopes, at the foot of the hill.

Tickets on Tiqets

All Athens attractions on Tiqets

We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Car hire

You do not need a car in central Athens. One is useful for coastal trips such as Cape Sounion or longer drives around mainland Greece.

Compare car hire on DiscoverCars

We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

From the airport to the city

Flights land at Athens International Airport (ATH). Metro Line 3 (the blue line) links the airport with the city centre, including Syntagma station. Check current times and fares on stasy.gr.

Arriving late or with heavy bags? You can book a private transfer in advance and see the price before you pay.

Private transfer on Welcome Pickups Compare transfers on Kiwitaxi

We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.