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Warnings and Dangers in Athens

Is Athens Safe? Areas to Avoid and Other Warnings

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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.

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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

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Is Athens Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Athens, Greece

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?

rhodes

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.

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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

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Home > 13 Greece Scams To Avoid – Is Athens Safe To Visit In 2024

13 Greece Scams To Avoid – Is Athens Safe To Visit In 2024

Post author Nick

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Is Athens safe? Well, Athens is a major city, and like any major hub, it has its share of petty crime, but with a proper safety guide like me, you can have a safe journey. But here’s the good news: Athens is a very safe city. It’s always a good idea to stay street-smart, especially in the bustling Greek capital.

So, in this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about keeping safe in Athens. Let’s get to it and clear up any doubts about just how safe Athens, Greece, really is.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Scams In Athens Affecting Tourists

Tourist scams.

Greece in general, is safe, but these are the most common tourist scams in Athens include:

  • Picture Scam: locals in Athens may ask you to take their picture, then blame you for a purposely dropped and broken camera, demanding payment
  • Taxi Overcharging: always ask Athens taxi drivers to turn on the meter to avoid overcharged fares
  • Bird Poop Scam: scammers throw a white paste on you and offer to clean it, pickpocketing you in the process
  • Bar Scams: beware of false “free bar” promotions
  • Restaurant Bread Scam: some restaurants charge for “complimentary” bread
  • Friendly Bar Friends Scam: locals may suggest moving to another bar, where you’re presented with an inflated bill
  • Pickpocketing is a travel safety issue common in public transportation and crowded places. Protect your belongings
  • Ferry Ticket Scam: fake “cheaper” ferry tickets sold near docks
  • Taxi Driver Scam: inflated prices, longer routes, and incorrect changes are common taxi scams
  • Restaurant Bread & Water Scam: in tourist areas, bread and water at restaurants may incur extra charges
  • Free Gift Scam: “Free” gifts lead to demands for payment
  • Inflated Bill Scam: bars and restaurants may add extra items to your bill or inflate prices
  • ATM Helper Scam: beware of scammers at ATMs offering to help avoid fees

Further down, I have listed more details about each scam so you can be prepared to stay safe. 

The capital city of Athens, right down near the southern edge of Greece, isn’t just big with a capital B. It’s the largest city in the country, buzzing with about 3.7 million folks. This place is like a treasure chest of ancient goodies – think the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch, and the famous Parthenon. These bits of history go way back to the 5th century BC.

Now, you’ve probably heard of spots like the National Archaeological Museum or the Ancient Agora. And yes, they’re as cool as they sound. Plus, there’s Syntagma Square and the temple of Olympian Zeus for your must-visit list.

A visit to the Greek Capital nails that perfect mix of an inviting Mediterranean vibe with some seriously impressive modern stuff. But hey, let’s talk safety.

A Guide Staying Safe In Athens

Is Athens safe - Monastiraki Square in Athens, Greece

On average, Athens is a safe city as long as you take precautions as you would in any other big city in the world. Most travelers find their stay in Athens trouble-free. The town is free from major violent crime such as sexual violence, murder, and terrorism.

However, there are instances of theft, robberies, scams, and pickpockets. This is not to discourage you from visiting but to make you aware of the facts. Athens is still safer than the top 10 most dangerous cities in Europe. 

However, here are some essentials to know regarding Athen’s safety as a travel destination.

3 Unsafe Neighborhoods In Athens

The capital of Greece offers endless ways to discover its cultural and historical wealth of ancient museums and attractions. Like many other big cities, Athens struggles with delinquency, which is prevalent in certain areas more than others.

These include, but are not limited to:

All these areas are relatively unsafe for travelers coming from around the world to Athens. 

Omonia struggles with drug dealers, pickpockets, prostitution, people with an addiction, and petty criminals. You won’t find Greek locals in Omonia, especially at night. So, always keep an eye on your valuable items. 

Vathi is another area that you should stay away from. Located northwest of Omonia, Vathi is fighting similar issues in a smaller proportion.

Exarcheia is a widely neglected area of Athens where street crimes such as theft, pickpockets, and prostitution are rife.

Other areas to be avoided include Patisia, Larissa, and Peloponissos, especially at night. Moreover, the nightclubs at Glyfada Square are associated with organized crime. 

Safe Areas In Athens

Where To Stay In Athens - Hotels In Athens - Plaka

Some of the safest places in Athens are Plaka, Kolonaki, and Koukaki. 

If you want to experience an authentic Greek neighborhood, Plaka is the chalk horse. Its historical old towns are similar to the other European capitals such as Prague, Warsaw, and Rome . 

Plaka’s community represents a living museum of authentic Greek culture. The area is blessed with art, entertainment, exceptional scenery, history, and rich culture. All the attractions in Plaka are close to Metro stations. Other than expensive hotels, there’s nothing significantly wrong with this area, especially regarding safety. 

Syntagma Square 

Syntagma Square is in Athens, one of the safer locations to stay at. However, it is best to avoid it around the dates of protests and public demonstrations.

Connected to the entire city of Athens, the place is within walking distance of all the major attractions, like the tomb of the anonymous soldier, the Greek parliament, and the Kallimarmaro. This square is one of Athens’s most important areas, so it has numerous restaurants and cafes. 

If you’re into luxury or trends, Kolonaki is your best bet. Surrounded by exquisite shops and boutiques, monuments, and museums, Kolonaki offers a cosmopolitan environment that pulls travelers from around the globe. It is also one of the most unassailable places in Athens.

Located south of the Acropolis, Koukaki emits a warm sense of local community. The walkable area of Koukaki is home to local Athenians. The main tourist attractions in the area are the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. The surprisingly inexpensive hotels in Koukaki will blow you away. 

Brands We Use And Trust

Is athens safe at night.

Psiri Athens at night, Greece

Like many other big cities in Europe , Athens can be unsafe at night. However, that doesn’t mean you can not step foot outside. 

Naturally, it would make sense not to, but if you want to go out at night, you can. Just stay extra careful and alert. Avoid quiet and poorly lit areas such as Filopappou Hill and the backstreets of Omonia, Exarchia, Green Metro line, and Vathi. Since most travelers want to explore Athens’s historical center, they’ll likely have to visit different locations (some might even be at night).

Solo In Athens – Is It Safe For Solo Female Travelers

Greece With KIds - What to do in Greece with kids - Athens - Changing of the guard

Female solo travelers are prone to become victims way more than their male counterparts wherever they may be in the world. The same is true for Athens. 

However, when it comes to women travelers and safety, Greece’s capital is safe.

You need to take the same precautions you would take in any other place. Stay alert, don’t roam about at night, and keep an eye on your belongings. Another suggestion is to look at a few international Facebook groups where you can find foreign girls living or  traveling in Athens if you feel the need for some fellow female company on your travels. 

Editors note: I was just in Athens this year, alone as a female, and found it to be a very safe place.

Crime In Athens In 2023

Exploring the crime rates in Athens reveals a complex picture. Despite perceptions of high crime rates in certain areas, the city’s overall crime statistics show a mix of moderate and high levels.

Common crimes include property crimes and vandalism, with a significant increase in crime in recent years – roughly the past three years. However, it’s important to note that while concerns exist, Athens does not uniformly experience high crime rates across all categories, and areas of low crime are also present.

  • The Crime Index is at 56.04, with a Safety Index of 43.96
  • Levels of crime are rated as moderate (58.47)
  • Crime in Athens has increased significantly in the past three years (76.99 – High), but Athens is safe with the right travel safety measures.
  • Moderate concerns exist about home break-ins (57.39), muggings or robberies (53.79), car theft (47.49), and items stolen from cars (59.32)
  • Physical attacks due to skin color, ethnic origin, gender, or religion in Athens are low (37.89), making it safe for tourists.
  • High problems are reported with drug use or dealing (63.85), property crimes like vandalism and theft (63.89), and violent crimes like assault and armed robbery (49.98)
  • Corruption and bribery are perceived as high (79.15)

Read more crime rates here.

Pickpocketing In Athens

Pickpocket

Pickpockets on the Metro in Athens are standard and a common issue for popular tourist destinations. So beware of anything fishy. Hold your backpacks in the front rather than on your back. 

While the best way to avoid pickpockets is to keep all the valuables hidden from the public and avoid public commotion, a few other things can help, such as:

  • In public places, pay close attention to your valuables
  • Use a separate (hidden) wallet to hide your extra cash
  • Keep your passport and other valuables in the hotel safe
  • Avoid quiet and poorly lit areas
  • Take special care of your cell phones and other devices
  • Stay away from political protests in central Athens

Riots & Demonstrations In Athens, Greece

Things To Do In Athens _ Athens Guide - Lycabettus hill in Athens

Specific dates when riots and demonstrations start in the city center are:

  • 7th November – Polytechnic Uprising Anniversary) and
  • 6th December – Alexandros’ Grigoropoulos death anniversary).

New demonstrations happen like clockwork on these dates, so stay away from the areas mentioned earlier and the Panepistimio metro area on these dates. 

How To Get Around Athens Safely

Pickpocketing is the most common crime in Athens. Petty theft in all its forms, including snatching, robbery, wallet stealing, etc., is quite common in crowded areas such as the Metro, nightlife destinations, tourist attractions, buses, and trains. Guarding your belongings in such places is especially important. If someone’s trying to distract you, ensure you’re vigilant about your wallet. 

Greece has relatively high rates of accidents on roads , primarily due to rash driving, over-speeding, and talking on the phone while driving. Drive defensively in Athens, so you’re not affected by distracted drivers. 

Taxi scams are another problem in getting around Athens. While Athens taxis are physically safe, they could be unsafe for your wallets. Taxi drivers gouge tourists and charge them more than they actually owe. 

Whenever you use a mode of public transport, make sure it’s official and licensed. Drivers often turn on the meter way before you sit. You also need to agree on the fare with your driver, so there’s no way they can scam you. Call the authorities immediately if you notice they’re ripping you off. This way, your driver will know you’re not someone they can mess with. 

Greece Scams & How To Avoid Them

Despite being the perfect blend of old and new, Athens’ tourist scams (along with the expenses) are a big turn-off for tourists.  Like many other travel destinations, Athens suffers from a small minority of scammers.

Picture Scam

One popular scam that runs across Europe, not just in Athens, is of someone asking you to take their picture. Locals will hand you their camera or mobile phone and ask you to take their photograph. Once you return the camera, they purposely drop it and blame you for breaking it, demanding that you pay them. Please do not take pictures of anyone unless you are 100% they are an honest tourist like yourself

Taxi Overcharging

There are honest taxi drivers in Athens, but it is not uncommon for taxi drivers to take advantage of tourists. They will overcharge, take on another person while driving, or take one to a hotel, tour operator, or restaurant where they get a commission from.

If you want to avoid this, ask the locals how much a taxi will cost and board a taxi that charges the same amount. Don’t board a cab without a meter. Refuse their suggestions and insist that they take you where you want to go. Do not board a taxi that does not use a meter.

Taxi drivers in Athens are required to provide a receipt upon request. The receipt should include the taxi fare, registration number, and driver’s name.

Friendly ATM Helper Scam

Be wary of anyone who approaches you at an ATM in Athens trying to help you “avoid fees.” They may be trying to use a card skimmer to scan your debit or credit card and watch you enter your PIN code in order to empty your account later.

Another variation of this scam is when your card experiences issues at the ATM, and someone offers to help. Shield the number pad with your other hand while you key in your pin. Refusing help is best – but even better if you can travel with credit cards that don’t charge foreign currency fees  and carry cash that can be exchanged at a bank in Athens, Greece.

In Athens, tourists should be wary of a certain bar scam. Two people will make small talk and act as if there is an attraction between you. Then they will suggest going to a nearby bar which, unannounced to you, they are associated with. After a few drinks, the bill will come out to be five to ten times more than expected.

Though your “new friend/s” may offer to chip in and help you pay, you will be escorted to the ATM by bar bodyguards if you do not pay it in full. The best way to avoid this fraud is to suggest the bar yourself if you make new friends and or ask for the menu once arriving so prices can be seen ahead of time.

Bird Poop Scam

Imagine this: you are wandering the delightful streets of Athens when suddenly you feel something on you and see that it is a white paste. Suddenly, a “friendly” local comes to your aid, saying a bird pooped on you and offers to help clean it up, all the while cursing the birds for creating such a mess.

While they help clean you, they also pickpocket you. Unless in an emergency, do not accept any “help” from locals who rush over to assist you. Keep all your belongings hidden away, ideally money and cards, in your internal pockets.

Extra Athens Safety Tips

  • Take a paper map of the area you’re visiting with you instead of walking with your phone in your hand
  • Become familiar with the map before you venture out
  • Make copies of all your important documents, including licenses, passports, and visas
  • Learn some of the Greek language, such as:

Geia/Geia sas:  Hello

Kalimera: Good morning – this a common greeting you’ll hear on your trip to Athens

Kalispera:  Good evening

Kalinixta:  Good night

Ti kaneis? How are you? To which you reply, “kala, esi?” (I am good, and you?)

Efharisto!:  Thank you!

Parakalo: You’re welcome, and also, please

Signomi: I’m sorry/Excuse me

Den katalaveno: I don’t understand

Pou ine to…?:  Where is the…?

Pou pao sto…?:  How can I get to…?

Pou mporo na vgalo xrimata? Where can I withdraw money?

Pou einai to ATM? Where is the ATM?

Mboro na parageilo parakalo?  Can I order, please?

Poso kani? How much does it cost?

Yia mas!  Cheers!

To logariasmo parakalo:  Can I have the check, please

…and in case of an emergency…  Voithia! : Help!

Important Emergency Contacts In Athens

Police in central Athens are quite impressive. They also have a dedicated ‘tourism police’ just a phone call away. Emergency contacts to the local authorities should always be known just in case things go South. Here are a few that can come in handy:

  • Hellenic Police: 100
  • Emergency Services: 112
  • Athens Tourism Policy: 1571
  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 15900
  • Racial Crime Reporting: 11414

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So, Is Athens Dangerous

Every city on earth has some areas that are higher in street crime, and the dangers in Greece are no different. Moreover, accidents can happen anywhere. You can go to what you think is the safest place and can still experience something unimaginable. Crime in Greece is primarily based on theft and addictions, and they’re controlled and limited to certain neighborhoods in Athens. 

This makes Athens one of the safest tourist destinations, which is why nothing should stop you from enjoying Greece’s natural landscapes and experiencing Athens’s deep-rooted history.

Just make sure to educate yourself, keep your valuables safe, keep an eye on your wallet at all times, and always stay ready for the worst-case scenario. 

So long as you take common-sense precautions and tips for staying safe, like keeping your personal belongings close to you, you will see that Athens is very safe. And you’ll be able to tell your travel companions “no” when they ask you, “Is Athens a dangerous city?”.

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Thank you for all your useful tips! Great blog. Very comprehensive & detailed information. Good guide for first time travellers to Athens.

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Is Athens Safe? All You Need to Know Before Your Next Trip

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If you’re considering a trip to Athens, you may be wondering if Athens is safe to visit.

Athens is a captivating city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. If you’re considering a trip to this remarkable destination, you might have some questions about safety, travel advisories, and how to ensure a secure experience.

Athens  is the capital and largest city of Greece. Athens dominates the  Attica  region and is one of the world’s oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning approximately 3,400 years.

Some of the popular tourist sights include the Acropolis, the Parthenon Temple, the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, The Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus among many others.

While it’s true that Athens has its share of challenges, there are some steps you can take to help ensure your safety in Athens. I will cover all the information you need to know regarding whether Athens is safe.

We’ll explore the crime rate, safety tips, and areas to avoid, so you can feel more confident before your next trip.

In this blog post, I will also explore the current Athens travel advisory, share essential tips for staying safe, offer solo travel advice so you will not become a victim of petty crime, and I will also provide you with a list of luxury hotels that will elevate your experience.

Let’s dive in!

Is Athens Safe: Fact vs Fiction

When comparing the safety of Athens, Greece, to crime rates in the United States, it’s important to note that each destination has its unique characteristics and crime patterns. Here are some key points to consider:

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  • Overall Crime Rates: Athens, Greece, generally has lower violent crime rates compared to many cities in the United States. However, like any major city, it is not entirely free from crime. There have been reports of sexual assault and Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. It’s crucial to take precautions to safeguard your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Gun Violence : The United States experiences a higher incidence of gun-related violence compared to Greece. The accessibility and prevalence of firearms contribute to this disparity. While Greece has a lower rate of gun-related crimes, it’s still important to exercise caution and remain vigilant in any urban environment because there are drug dealers everywhere you go
  • Cultural Differences: Societal and cultural differences can influence crime rates and safety perceptions. Greece has a strong sense of community and generally embraces tourism, making visitors feel welcome and safe. However, it’s advisable to be cautious in crowded areas and take standard safety precautions.
  • Tourist Areas: Popular tourist areas in Athens, such as the Acropolis and Plaka, are generally safe but can attract pickpockets and scam artists. Stay alert, secure your belongings, and be cautious of anyone approaching you with unsolicited assistance or overly friendly behavior.
  • Police Presence : Athens has a visible police presence, especially in tourist areas and city centers, which helps deter and address criminal activities. If you encounter any issues or emergencies, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from the local authorities.

It’s worth noting that crime rates can vary within different regions of the United States, and generalizations should be made with caution.

I always recommended researching and staying informed about the specific safety conditions and travel advisories for both Athens and any U.S. destinations you plan to visit.

Crime Rates in Athens

Athens is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, with its rich history and vibrant culture attracting millions of visitors each year.

However, the question of safety is always at the forefront of travelers’ minds when considering a trip to Athens.

When it comes to crime rates, Athens has seen a decline in recent years, with a reduction in both violent and non-violent crimes. However, like any big city, there are still areas and situations to be wary of.

Pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas, remains the most common crime in Athens.

It’s important to note that the crime rate in Athens is not higher than in other European cities, and with the proper precautions, you can stay safe during your trip. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

While it’s important to be cautious, don’t let concerns about safety deter you from experiencing the beauty and wonder of Athens. With a little bit of preparation and awareness, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to this fascinating city.

So, is Greece safe for travel? Yes, as long as you take the necessary precautions.

Greece Travel Advisory

Greece – level 1: exercise normal precautions, travel advisory levels, assistance for u.s. citizens, is it safe to travel to athens, greece .

Is Athens safe to visit in 2023? As we book our summer 2023 travels we are all trying to determine which destinations are safe.  It’s likely that Athens will continue to be a safe destination for travelers.

The city has made great strides in recent years to improve its infrastructure and safety measures.

If you’re planning a trip to Athens in the summer of 2023 make sure to do your research and stay informed about any potential risks.

Stay up-to-date on current events and take advantage of resources like travel advisories and embassy warnings.

By taking these precautions seriously, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to this incredible city. Don’t let concerns about safety hold you back from experiencing all that Athens has to offer!

What Type of Crimes will you Most Likely Encounter in Greece

In Athens, Greece, the most common types of crimes you may encounter are typically non-violent crimes, especially in tourist areas. These crimes are often opportunistic and aimed at theft or scams.

Here are some examples:

  • Pickpocketing: Pickpocketing is a prevalent crime in crowded places such as public transportation, markets, and tourist attractions. Thieves may work in groups and employ various distraction techniques to target unsuspecting individuals and steal their wallets, phones, or other valuables. It is crucial to be cautious and keep a close eye on your belongings.
  • Purse Snatching : Similar to pickpocketing, bag snatching involves thieves quickly grabbing bags or purses from individuals, often while riding a motorcycle or bicycle. This crime is more likely to occur in busy streets or areas with heavy foot traffic. To minimize the risk, keep your bag secured and avoid loosely holding it.
  • Theft from Cars: Opportunistic thieves may target parked cars, especially if valuable items are left visible inside. It’s advisable to avoid leaving any belongings unattended in your vehicle or to store them out of sight in the trunk.
  • Scams : Athens, like any tourist destination, has its fair share of scams. These can range from fake charity solicitations and street games designed to extract money from unsuspecting tourists to counterfeit goods or inflated prices for services. Be wary of unsolicited offers, use reputable establishments, and be cautious when dealing with strangers.
  • Taxi Gauging: Taxi gauging, also known as taxi overcharging or meter tampering, can be an issue in some parts of Greece, including Athens. While the majority of taxi drivers in Greece are honest and reliable, a few may engage in dishonest practices to overcharge unsuspecting passengers.
  • The ‘You Dropped Something’ Scam: This scam is not just common in Athens but in most touristy destinations, where someone will pretend to drop something, and if you pick it up for them – they will steal your wallet or electronics from you as you give back whatever they dropped.
  • The Bracelet or Rose Scam: The bracelet or rose scam usually involves a person approaching a tourist, often in popular tourist areas or near landmarks, offering them a rose as a friendly gesture or claiming it’s a local tradition. The person may appear friendly, persuasive, or insistent.

Is Athens Safe for Solo Travelers

I traveled to not only Athens but Kalamata Greece solo and it was one of the best solo vacations I enjoyed.

While it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings as you would in any major city, Athens offers a rich cultural experience and a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers.

Here are some factors to consider when traveling to Greece Solo:

  • Safety in Tourist Areas: Popular tourist areas in Athens, such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki, are generally safe and well-patrolled by police. These areas are often crowded with tourists, which can contribute to a sense of security. However, be mindful of pickpocketing or petty theft, especially in busy locations.
  • Public Transportation: Athens has an efficient and accessible public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams. These options are generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s advisable to remain vigilant, particularly during crowded times or when traveling late at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas when using public transportation.
  • Solo Female Travelers: Athens is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. I practiced the same precautions as I would in any other major city, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, dressing modestly when visiting religious sites, and trusting my instincts when interacting with strangers. If you’re uncomfortable walking alone at night, consider using taxis or ride-hailing services.
  • Hotel Selection: Choose accommodation in safe and well-populated areas of Athens, preferably close to public transportation. Research reviews and ratings of hotels or guesthouses from other solo travelers to ensure a comfortable and secure stay.
  • Join Group Tours or Activities: Participating in group tours, walking tours, or organized activities can enhance your experience in Athens while providing a sense of safety and companionship. It also allows you to explore the city’s highlights with knowledgeable guides.
  • Local Recommendations : Seek advice from hotel staff regarding safe areas, recommended transportation options, and any specific safety considerations during your stay. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate Athens a little more confidently.

Avoid Getting Scammed at Restaurants

To avoid getting scammed at restaurants in Athens or any other destination, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Research and Choose Reputable Restaurants: Before dining out, do some research to find well-reviewed and reputable restaurants. Read online reviews, check popular travel websites, or ask locals for recommendations. Choosing established and highly regarded establishments reduces the risk of encountering scams.
  • Menu and Pricing Awareness: Take a moment to review the menu and prices before ordering. Be cautious if the prices seem unusually high or if there are no prices listed at all. Ask questions about any unclear charges or fees to ensure transparency.
  • Be Wary of Tourist Traps : Avoid restaurants located in heavily touristy areas that specifically target visitors. These places might use aggressive tactics or employ scams to lure customers. Explore more local neighborhoods for authentic dining experiences.
  • Check for Hidden Charges : Be aware of additional charges that may not be clearly mentioned on the menu, such as cover charges, service fees, or bread charges. If unsure, ask the staff about any potential extra costs before ordering.

Pre-trip Preparation and Research

When planning a trip to Athens, Greece, it’s essential to do your research and prepare accordingly to ensure your safety throughout your stay. One of the most critical factors to consider is the current state of safety in Greece.

While Greece is generally considered a safe country to visit, it’s essential to stay vigilant and take precautions to prevent becoming a victim of crime.

Start your pre-trip preparation by researching crime rates in Athens, as well as any current safety concerns or warnings from the government or travel advisories.

A quick online search will provide you with an overview of Athens’ safety, and you can also consult with a travel agent or other reliable sources to obtain updated information.

Some helpful resources include the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory page and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) website.

It’s also a good idea to read reviews and recommendations from other travelers who have recently visited Athens. This information can give you valuable insights into the city’s safety, as well as provide useful tips for staying safe during your trip.

By conducting thorough pre-trip preparation and research, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect and be better equipped to make informed decisions regarding your safety while in Athens.

Remember, the most important step towards ensuring a safe trip is to always be aware of your surroundings, stay alert, and take precautions.

Areas to avoid in Athens

When it comes to travel safety in Athens, it’s essential to know which areas to avoid to minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Although Athens is a generally safe city, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

The areas to avoid in Athens are primarily the areas known for their high crime rates. These areas include Omonia, Exarchia, and Metaxourgio.

Although these neighborhoods are popular among tourists, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and avoid walking alone at night.

Pickpocketing and theft are common in these areas, so make sure you keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Apart from these neighborhoods, certain parts of Athens have a higher risk of crime, such as Victoria Square, Aghios Panteleimonas, and Kypseli.

These areas are known for their high rate of theft, so avoid carrying valuable items when visiting these neighborhoods.

Although these areas have a higher risk of crime, it’s important to remember that Athens, overall, is a safe city for travelers. Just be mindful of your surroundings, and you’ll have a great time exploring this beautiful city.

Here are some areas that have been reported to have higher crime rates or safety concerns:

  • Omonia Square: Omonia Square, located in the city center, has seen some instances of drug-related activity and can attract a rougher crowd, particularly at night. Exercise caution and avoid isolated areas around Omonia Square, especially late in the evening.
  • Exarchia: Exarchia is known for its alternative culture and often hosts demonstrations or protests. While it can be interesting to explore during the day, it is advised to avoid this area at night, as it has a reputation for occasional clashes with the police.
  • Certain Metro Stations : Some metro stations, such as Larissa Station and Victoria Station, have reported higher incidents of pickpocketing and theft. While using public transportation is generally safe, it’s advisable to remain vigilant and secure your belongings, especially at these stations.
  • Pedion tou Areos Park: Pedion tou Areos Park, located near Victoria Station, has been known to have some safety concerns, particularly after dark. It’s advisable to avoid the park at night and be cautious during the day, especially if it appears deserted.
  • Dimotiki Agora (Central Market) : The Central Market can be a bustling and vibrant place during the day, offering fresh produce, meats, and seafood. However, be cautious of pickpocketing and keep an eye on your belongings, as crowded markets can attract opportunistic thieves.

Safest Areas in Athens

Here are some neighborhoods generally considered safe for tourists:

  • Plaka Area : Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens, known for its charming narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and historical sites. It is a popular area for tourists, with many cafes, restaurants, and shops. During the day and early evening, Plaka is generally safe and well-patrolled.
  • Syntagma Square: Located in the heart of Athens, Syntagma Square is a bustling area surrounded by shops, hotels, and government buildings. It is a transportation hub and home to the Greek Parliament. The square and its immediate surroundings are typically safe, especially during the day and early evening when it is well-lit and crowded.
  • Kolonaki: Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood known for its high-end shops, boutiques, and cafes. It is considered safe, and its central location offers easy access to many attractions. The streets are well-maintained, and there is a strong police presence.
  • Monastiraki: Monastiraki is a vibrant neighborhood near the Acropolis, known for its bustling flea market and lively atmosphere. During the day, it is safe for tourists, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. However, be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Kifisia: Kifisia is an affluent suburb located approximately 12 kilometers north of Athens city center. It is known for its upscale shops, beautiful houses, and green spaces. Kifisia is considered a safe area with a low crime rate. It is well-suited for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed environment.

How to Stay Safe while in Athens

Athens is a beautiful and culturally rich city that attracts millions of tourists every year. However, like any major city, there are certain safety concerns that visitors should be aware of.

If you’re wondering “Is Greece safe?” the answer is yes, but it’s important to take precautions to stay safe while in Athens.

One of the best ways to stay safe while in Athens is to be aware of your surroundings at all times.

This means keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like tourist attractions and markets.

Thieves and pickpockets tend to target tourists, so make sure your bags are securely zipped up and don’t carry around large amounts of cash or valuables.

It’s also important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. While Athens is generally a safe city, there are some areas that can be unsafe after dark.

Stick to well-lit and busy areas and avoid poorly-lit streets or alleys.

Another important aspect of staying safe while in Athens is being aware of local customs and laws. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

When it comes to transportation, use licensed taxis and avoid unlicensed cabs or hitchhiking. Be careful when crossing the street, as Greek drivers tend to be more aggressive than you might be used to. And always wear your seatbelt when in a car.

Lastly, do your research before you go. Make sure to read up on any safety concerns specific to Athens and be aware of any current events or protests that may be taking place.

This will help you be better prepared and more aware of any potential safety concerns while in the city.

Overall, Athens is a safe city for travelers, as long as you take the necessary precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, stay aware of your surroundings, be respectful of local customs, and do your research beforehand.

By doing so, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this incredible city.

What to do if you become a victim of crime in Athens

While Athens is generally a safe place to visit, crime can happen anywhere and it’s important to be prepared. If you find yourself the victim of a crime in Athens, here are some steps to take:

1. Stay calm and seek help immediately – contact the police or emergency services by calling 112. They have operators who speak English and can guide you through the process. 2. Report the incident – file a police report as soon as possible, even if it’s just to get an official record of what happened. This can be useful if you need to make a claim on your travel insurance. 3. Contact your embassy or consulate – they can provide you with support and advice if you’re the victim of a crime. 4. Keep documentation – keep all relevant documents, such as police reports and receipts, in case you need them later on. 5. Get medical attention – if you have been injured, seek medical attention right away. Many hospitals in Athens have English-speaking staff. 6. Be vigilant – remember that while Athens is generally a safe city, crime can happen anywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t hesitate to contact authorities if you feel unsafe.

Transportation Safety in Athens

When it comes to transportation safety in Athens, the good news is that it is generally safe.

However, as with any big city, there are certain precautions that you should take to ensure your safety while getting around. Here are some things to keep in mind:

First of all, if you’re using public transportation, make sure you keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Pickpocketing can be a problem on buses and trains, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your wallet and phone in a secure place.

Taxis are a common way to get around Athens, but you should be cautious when hailing a cab on the street.

Only use licensed taxis with meters, and make sure you agree on a price before getting in. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt, which are generally considered safe in Athens.

If you’re planning on renting a car, be aware that driving in Athens can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and insurance, and consider hiring a driver if you’re not confident in your ability to navigate the city on your own.

Finally, if you’re traveling alone at night, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service rather than walking or using public transportation.

While Athens is generally safe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Overall, transportation safety in Athens is not a major concern, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

With a little bit of planning and common sense, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful city. So, the answer to the question “Is Athens Greece Safe for travel?” is yes, but it’s always better to be prepared.

Hotel Safety in Athens

When traveling to Athens, it is important to consider the safety of your hotel and you know I love luxury accommodations because you feel comfortable and secure during your stay.

Here are some tips to help you choose the safest luxury hotel in Athens:

1. Read reviews: Check online reviews of the hotel or hostel you plan to stay in before booking. Look for reviews that mention safety and security. 2. Location: Consider the location of your accommodation. Stay in a well-lit area that is close to public transportation and popular tourist spots. Avoid staying in isolated areas or back alleys. 3. Check for security features : Check if the accommodation has security features like CCTV cameras, security guards, or secure locks on doors and windows. This will give you peace of mind during your stay. 4. Ask for a safe: Ask if the accommodation provides a safe in the room or at reception where you can store valuable items like your passport, cash, and electronics. 5. Don’t share personal information: Avoid sharing your personal information with strangers at the accommodation. Don’t reveal your room number or any other personal information to people you don’t know.

Some of the best luxury hotels in Athens include the Hotel Grande Bretagne, the King George Hotel, and the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens.

These hotels provide excellent security measures and are located in safe areas of the city.

Overall, taking precautions and doing your research before booking a hotel can help ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Athens.

Best Luxury Hotels in Athens

If you’re planning to stay in Athens, you might be wondering which luxury hotels offer the best services and facilities.

Athens offers a range of top-tier hotels for travelers who value luxury and comfort. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Athens to consider for your next trip:

1. Hotel Grande Bretagne:

This iconic hotel is one of Athens’ most prestigious properties, boasting elegant decor, a rooftop pool, and exceptional dining options. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s spa, fitness center, and 24-hour butler service.

Book now if Hotel Grande Bretagne is right for you.

MAKE A RESERVATION

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens (@hotelgrandebretagne)

2. King George:

Located next to the Acropolis and the Parliament Building, this five-star hotel is the epitome of sophistication. With lavish furnishings, a rooftop restaurant and bar, and an extensive wine list, King George is a top choice for discerning travelers.

Book now if King George is right for you.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by King George, Athens (@kinggeorgeathens)

3. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens:

This stunning property boasts three private beaches, an Olympic-sized pool, and an exclusive spa. With chic rooms, superb dining options, and unparalleled service, the Four Seasons Astir Palace is one of the best luxury hotels in Athens.

Book now if Four Seasons Astir is right for you.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens (@fsathens)

4. Grand Hyatt Athens:

This recently-opened hotel is located in the heart of Athens and offers contemporary accommodations with breathtaking city views. The hotel also features a rooftop restaurant, a spa, and an outdoor pool.

Book now if Grand Hyatt Athens is right for you.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Grand Hyatt Athens (@grandhyattathens)

5. St. George Lycabettus:

Nestled in the fashionable Kolonaki neighborhood, this boutique hotel is renowned for its panoramic views of Athens and its personalized service.

With an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and luxurious guest rooms, St. George Lycabettus is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more intimate atmosphere.

Book now if St. George Lycabettus is right for you.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by St. George Lycabettus Hotel (@stgeorge_lycabettus_hotel)

No matter which luxury hotel you choose in Athens, you can rest assured that you’ll be pampered with exceptional service and luxurious amenities. Be sure to book your stay in advance, as these hotels tend to fill up quickly during the peak travel season.

Closest Greek Islands to Athens

Here is a list of some of the closest Greek islands to mainland Greece, along with approximate travel times, ferry companies, and prices.

Please note that ferry schedules and prices may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with the ferry companies or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information.

Also, you can purchase tickets via Viator which is my go to site for finding activities to do when I travel.

  • Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour (from Piraeus)
  • Ferry Companies: Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries
  • Price Range: 10-20 EUR (one-way ticket)
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours (from Piraeus)
  • Ferry Companies: Hellenic Seaways, Saronic Ferries
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours (from Piraeus)
  • Ferry Companies: Hellenic Seaways, Hydraiki, Blue Star Ferries
  • Price Range: 15-25 EUR (one-way ticket)
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours (from Piraeus)
  • Ferry Companies: Hellenic Seaways, Spetses Ferries
  • Price Range: 20-30 EUR (one-way ticket)
  • Travel Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes (from Perama or Piraeus)
  • Ferry Companies: Salamis Lines
  • Price Range: 5-10 EUR (one-way ticket)
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours (from Lavrio)
  • Ferry Companies: Blue Star Ferries
  • Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours (from Lavrio)

Please keep in mind that the prices mentioned are approximate and can vary depending on the season, type of ferry, and ticket class.

It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the ferry companies for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding schedules and prices.

Useful Resources to Help You Explore Athens

  • Expedia : the best website for finding cheap flight deals and hotels to and from Athens.
  • Booking.com: my favorite hotel booking website, as it consistently has the best selection and prices.
  • Hotels.com : another excellent hotel booking website for finding fabulous Athens accommodation.
  • Tripadvisor : this famous review website now allows you to book accommodation and tours direct as well.
  • Get Your Guide : my favorite resource for finding tours and activities in Athens and elsewhere.
  • Viator: another great option for finding fun things to do, skip-the-line tickets, and fabulous tours in Athens.

is athens safe

Conclusion: Is Athens Safe

Is Athens safe for American tourists in 2023? Yes! Yes! Yes! Athens is a very safe city.

Athens is one of the most charming and historical cities in Greece and it has become one of my favorite cities.  From the shopping, cuisine, and historical sites, you will always find something to do.

Is Athens really safe? I have traveled to Athens both solo and with my best friend.  Both Athens and Kalamata are some of the cities I’ve visited and felt completely safe.

I walked around Athens by myself without hesitation and when I traveled there with my bestie we walked around and nothing happened to either of us while we were there.

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling solo, on a girl’s trip, or with your family – Athens is completely safe.

Ready to plan your trip, grab my  FREE  Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show.

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One comment.

The fear of crime is often far greater than the actual risk of becoming a victim, especially in women, and Athens, like most major cities in Europe and everywhere else for that matter, does have some risk (if travellers are from the US their local crime rates are likely to be higher or at least similar as in Europe technically), but it is important to remember that this risk % is still very low for the majority and can be mitigated to even lower levels by basic common sense and reasonable precautions. Its all about the steps YOU take to keep yourself safe,it is rarely about the destination. Preparation, not fear, is the key to staying safe.

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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!

safe to travel to athens

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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?

Ruins in Athens

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?

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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

Tourist area 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?

safe to travel to athens

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

safe to travel to 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?

A pickpocket in Athens stealing a purse.

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?

safe to travel to athens

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?

A time lapse image of a trolley bus 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?

Tap water 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?

There's no doubting it's beautiful, but 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

Exarcheia, 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!)

safe to travel to athens

  • 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.

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Is Athens safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

safe to travel to athens

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.

safe to travel to athens

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.

safe to travel to athens

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.

safe to travel to athens

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 to travel to athens

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 .

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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

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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.

Athens Plaka neighborhood with people sitting in outdoor cafes

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. 

A broad view of Athens Greece with the Acropolis on a hill and the Aegean Sea visible beyond the city

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. 

A subway train enters the station in the metro underground transit system in Athens Greece

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.

Susan Heinrich at National Gardens on a solo stay in Athens Greece

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.

Monastiraki Square filled with locals and tourists on a spring evening

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.  

Susan Heinrich stands in front of the Gate of Athena Archegetis on a walking tour of Athens, Greece

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. 

Susan Heinrich with her tour guide, Penelope Triantafyllidou, in Athens Greece

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 🙂 

Athens Ancient Roman Forum or Agora at dusk

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.

The Athens Acropolis Erechtheion in the late-day sun

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.

The Athens Acropolis up on a hill overlooking the city, with the setting sun casting a golden light

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 front view of the Parthenon at the Athens' Acropolis

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.

The Evzones soldiers of Athens Greece march in formation

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.

Athens spice market seller

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. 

Plaka Athens at sunset, with no one around

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Is Athens safe?

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is athens safe

Is Athens safe for new or curious travelers?

Athens, also known as the ancient Greek city cradle of democracy, continues to attract tourists from all over the world eager to visit Acropolis and the Parthenon.

In a city that counts more than 3 million inhabitants , we can say that Athens is safe and a peaceful city to visit for those looking for a historical city break.

Like any other capital city in the world, there are some areas to avoid , mainly located in the suburbs, away from the popular tourist areas… but is that all?

Table of Contents

For most people, knowing whether Athens is safe to visit or not is imperative, especially for those planning a visit to the city, now, or at any time in the future.

how many days in athens

We have covered a list of the safest cities in Europe to visit on this blog for you to compare, however, keep reading this specific page to learn more about common crimes, areas and neighborhoods to avoid as well as how to stay safe in Athens.

How safe is Athens?

After the economic crisis and the recent migrant emergency, the situation is tense and as a result, the phenomenon of pickpocketing is steadily on the rise .

Apart from those types of petty crimes, Athens is safe to visit and there’s no reason why you should be concerned about this safety aspect during your trip.

As always, be cautious when walking around the most popular tourist areas and public transport, and always remember to keep an eye on your valuables .

As long as you stick to the central neighborhoods of Athens and use your common sense, you can stay reassured that you’ll have a great time in Athens.

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Yes, Athens is safe for tourists . Visitors should be alert when walking around popular monuments and on public transport just like in any other big city.

street art athens greece

Tourists should avoid visiting the outskirts of Athens and don’t stay in Omonia Square (and the surrounding area, up to Keramikos), Metaxourghio station and Exarchia . Try somewhere like Planka instead which is great for first-time visitors to Athens or if you even Syntagma if you want to be close to the central square.

As mentioned earlier, the most common crimes affecting tourists in Athens are pickpocketing and bag snatching which can happen around the most popular attractions, crowded places and on public transport. Carrying a money stash is a great idea if you prefer to conceal your belongings while exploring the streets.

Finally, when transporting yourself to different parts of the city, make sure you use licensed taxis and stay away from demonstrations and clashes .

Athens crime rate

According to Numbeo.com, the level of crime in Athens is moderate .

  • It has been reported an increase in crimes in the past 3 years . The higher risk is having problems with people using or dealing drugs and property crimes like vandalism and theft.
  • Previous travelers feel completely safe walking around Athens in the daytime , but feel it’s riskier at night. Athenians are welcoming people and that explains the limited worries of previous visitors of being subject to a physical attack because of their skin color, ethnic origin or religion.
  • Most crimes in Athens don’t affect tourists, but everyone is advised to be aware of its surroundings at all times .

Is Athens safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Athens is a safe city for solo female travelers, however, don’t let your guard down when exploring the nightlife in Athens, more so when meeting new friends.

plaka athens safety

The good news is that you can walk around the city by yourself without getting worried about being harassed, but make sure to get on a licensed taxi, keep an eye on your personal items, and don’t carry with you large amounts of cash .

Remember to leave your important travel documents in a safe deposit box at your hotel, if provided. Be aware of possible pickpockets and aim to carry a bag like this one even when you’re visiting the most touristic landmarks in Athens.

Avoid the party districts of Monastiraki, Omonia, Psyrri and Mextaxourghio late at night and stay clear of deserted or dark streets on your way back home.

Is Athens safe at night?

Athens is safe at night for the most part, as long as you remember to stick to the tourist neighborhoods around the city center and don’t enter the red-light district.

athens safety at night

The neighborhoods to avoid are Omonia Square and Metaxourghio station, where there have been reported drug dealing and prostitution crimes.

Also, avoid going to nightclubs or bars where you have been invited by some random girls (or guys) as you may find yourself paying 100 euros for a drink.

There are a number of different scams happening during the night some of which are set up to trap tourists in unfavorable situations, so keep this in mind.

In general, avoid walking alone anywhere in a big city like Athens so you won’t attract the attention of potential thieves and drug dealers.

Where to stay in Athens

The good news is, Athens counts on a wide choice of neighborhoods and areas in and around the city center where you can stay without worrying about safety.

The best places to stay in Athens are:

  • Kolonáki , the richest district of the city, with the most beautiful hotels, boutique shops and a great selection of restaurants.
  • Monastiraki is one of the most touristic districts of Athens, full of cool bars and restaurants.

One of the best hotels in Athens for its central position and unique features is the 5 star COCO-MAT Athens Jumelle , overlooking the hilltop Acropolis.

athens street view greece

The neighborhoods we recommend avoiding are: Omonia, Colonus for drug misuse and drug dealing crimes, Agio Panteleimomas and Exarcheia , considered the ‘out of control areas of the city by local authorities.

Athens: Travel safety tips

Athens is the capital city of Greece and one of the biggest cities in Europe. Even if it’s considered as safe for tourists, we still suggest taking safety precautions .

By following our simple Athens safety tips you’ll have a great stay in this city.

  • Avoid going out with large amounts of cash and do not show money off. If possible, put your money in different places (pockets or bags). This money belt is ideal to use whilst traveling and guarantees extra safety.
  • When you’re in a restaurant or sitting at a coffee table, don’t hang your bag on the chair and don’t put your phone and wallet on the table .
  • Bring a photocopy of your passport or any other ID and leave your original copies back at your hotel or hostel in Athens.
  • Do not get into taxis that are not authorized (the yellow ones). Check which are the official taxi companies before getting on one.
  • If you decide to hire a car in Athens , make sure doors and windows are closed and don’t leave any valuables inside it.
  • There are no dangerous neighborhoods but avoid the following places at night time: Omonia Square (and surrounding area, up to Keramikos), Metaxourghio station and Exarchia .
  • Keep an eye on your bags and belongings in touristic areas and public transport, as it’s where pickpockets and bag snatchers hang around.
  • In case of manifestation or clashes , avoid Syntagma square (in front of the Parliament), Omonia square and adjacent areas (Panepistimiou area and Akademias street) as well as Exarchia neighborhood and around the Polytechnic University .
  • When you’re walking around, be careful when you’re crossing the road : many drivers do not respect the red light and other road safety rules.
  • You can call the police at this number 112 . In Athens there’s also the Tourist Police with the task of repressing crimes against tourists. You can dial 171 and they answer in English, German and French.

Athens is safe but it’s always better to use your common sense , avoid walking around the neighbourhoods we mentioned at night and keep an eye on your personal belongings, and you’ll have a fantastic time here.

Also, depending on how many days in Athens you are planning to stay, you may find it worth while to stay in different areas to enrichen your experience of the city.

Best time to visit Athens

Athens can be visited all year round thanks to its Mediterranean climate. Temperatures aren’t rigid, even in the coldest months, and don’t go below 5°C .

exploring athens greece

For us, the best time to visit the Greek capital is definitely during spring because it’s not too hot and it is more of less always sunny , these are the ideal weather conditions to visit the main attractions and go on day trips or boat tours.

Be sure to carry some sunscreen if you know you’ll be arriving during the summer as its easy to get sunburn while exploring streets here.

Autumn is a good time , the month of September and the beginning of October. After the second half of October, rains start to be more frequent.

Early spring and late autumn are good times to find pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. The price of flights and accommodation tend to be affordable too.

Got travel insurance for Athens?

travel insurance

Is Athens safe? Final words

Now you should have a better idea of how safe Athens is . There’s no reason to be worried about safety during your trip to the Greek capital.

As long as you’re cautious of your surroundings and possible pickpockets in the most touristic places, you’ll be completely fine in Athens.

While you’re still here, be sure to read our sustainable travel tips to make sure your trip has the most positive effect on the local environment here in Athens.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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

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

Greece - Athens - Anafiotika

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

Greece - Athens - Sunset from Hotel Balcony

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. 

Greece - Athens - Exarchia Street Art

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

Greece - Athens - Mount Lycabettus - Pixabay

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

Greece - Athens - National Archaeologal Museum of Athens

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

Greece - Crete - Heraklion - Old Venetian Harbor Luggage

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

Greece - Athens - Exarchia Bar

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

Greece - Athens - Airport Selfie Stephanie

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

Greece - Epidaurus - Stephanie Selfie

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!

Bosnia - Mostar - Stephanie

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.

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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.
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  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
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Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Athens Greece Travel Tips

In this collection of tips and advice for first time visitors to Athens, Greece, you’ll find practical insights to safety, itinerary planning, and transportation. Basically, everything you need to know before you go!

Athens travel tips - what you need to know before you go to athens in greece

Tips for visiting Athens

Planning a trip to Athens in Greece? You’ve probably read a few city guides and itineraries like this 2 day Athens itinerary , but are left wondering what is Athens actually like? More importantly, what do you really need to know before you go to Athens on vacation?

This is where I can help! I’m coming up to 9 years of living in Athens now (no idea where that time went!), and have put together this condensed list of tips for visiting Athens.

I hope this Athens travel information helps you plan ahead a little better, lets you know what to expect, and offers some practical insights to make your time in Athens go smoother.

Dave Briggs at the Parthenon in the Acropolis of Athens, Greece

Athens Travel Tips

These Athens insider tips are broken down into short sections for easier reading. Here's a taster of what to expect in this list:

  • Don't drive in Athens – the actual driving is bad enough, the parking is worse!
  • Tipping – People's opinions varied from 0 to 10%. Generally speaking, tipping is not part of the culture as it is in the US (but tips for good taverna or cafe service are always appreciated!).
  • Taxi Scams – People still mention taxi scams either in the airport or city. I recommend you to use Welcome Pickups  to pre-book your ride for a hassle free experience.
  • Pickpockets – On the metro and crowded places. 
  • Be careful crossing the road – Just assume that traffic won't stop for you even if they are on a red light!

Reader feedback has been really helpful in putting all this together. If you have any questions or anything to add, you can leave a comment at the end of this Athens travel guide.

Ok, let's dive in….

Tips On When To Visit Athens & Weather

Already know when you are visiting Athens Greece, or can only travel in certain months? Don’t worry – Athens is a big city, and there’s always plenty to see and do.

Sure, some months are better than others in terms of tourist numbers or weather, but if you can’t pick and choose your dates it’s not a problem.

However, if you have yet to book your trip to Athens and are flexible with when you can go, these Athens travel tips are something to keep in mind:

  • Visit during the shoulder seasons : The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons, which are April to May and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months.
  • August is a contrarian time to visit Athens : If you can put up with the heat (40 degrees is not rare), August can be an interesting time to visit Athens. Most Athenians head to the islands during August which means the city is a lot quieter on the traffic front. I like Athens in August – it is a touch on the warm side though!
  • Enjoy Greek Orthodox Easter : If you happen to visit Athens during Greek Orthodox Easter, join the celebration and witness the impressive Good Friday candlelit procession on Mount Lycabettus Hill.
  • Christmas In Athens : It’s a lot less commercial than many other countries, and low key as it’s the off season. You’ll still see decorations and trees in Syntagma Square, and you should for sure check out the Little Kook cafe in all its gaudy weirdness!
  • Off season travel considerations : With shorter daylight hours, archaeological sites in Athens close earlier than in the summer. Plan accordingly!
  • Off season Athens travel hack : Save money in Athens on the first Sunday of each month from November until March, when you can enjoy the riches of ancient Greece with free entry to government run Archaeological Sites and Museums.
  • Peak season travel considerations : There will be a LOT of other visitors in Athens with similar ideas to you on places they want to see.

Also read: Best time to visit Athens

Areopagus Hill in Athens

Keep Connected In Athens

A quick word about mobile phones and connectivity while you are on vacation in Athens and other parts of Greece.

  • Make sure your cell phone company knows you are traveling overseas if you need data.
  • Roaming data can be expensive! Switch your phone to flight mode when you don't need it.
  • Athens is a good place to pick up a local sim card , which may be especially useful if you are spending longer in Greece. In the long run this will be cheaper.
  • WiFi is everywhere – Whenever you sit down at a cafe or taverna, just ask for the WiFi code.

Athens Money Tips

Here's a few money related tips for when you visit Athens. They can mostly be applied to the rest of Greece as well.

  • Cash isn’t King anymore : If you’ve read that you have to carry cash everywhere, you’re reading out of date info. I can’t remember the last time I used cash in Athens, as cards are accepted everywhere. From March 2024, even taxi drivers have to accept cards now. I do carry a few coins for tips at tavernas.
  • To Tip Or Not To Tip : Tipping in Greece is basically a matter of rounding up or leaving a couple of Euros depending on the circumstances. Greece does not have a tipping culture, although tips in bars and restaurants are always welcome of course. If you are from the US, tipping is nothing like it is there.
  • Tell Your Bank : Before your trip, make sure your bank knows you are traveling to Greece and you want to use your cards there. This way your bank and credit cards won't get frozen while you are on vacation in Athens.
  • Bring more than one card : You don't want to be left with no options if something happens to the bank card you bring when you travel to Athens. So, take extra bank cars on vacation, and even for different accounts to be on the safe side.
  • That won’t do nicely Sir : Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere. American Express is much less widely accepted.
  • ATM Charges : If you want to withdraw cash from an ATM, there will be a charge of 2 or 3 Euros, so you probably want to withdraw larger amounts in one go rather than 10 Euros at a time. Never accept the ATM exchange rate, always accept your bank’s rate – It’s always the better rate.

Also read: Money in Greece

atm machines in athens

Athens Transportation Tips

If you are staying in the historic center of Athens, you will find the city quite walkable. Public transportation comes in the form of a good metro system, along with a slightly less intuitive bus system, and some trams. You will recognize official taxis in Athens as they are bright yellow cars.

  • The Athens Metro : It currently has three lines (a fourth being built), which are known by their colors. Every important landmark, museum, and the most famous places for sightseeing in Athens are located next to or very near a metro station.
  • Metro Tickets : Can be bought at machines in every metro station using cash or card. All Athens metro ticket machines have English menus, and various ticket options.
  • Athens Metro Pickpockets : It seems to get worse every year. The green line has a bad reputation. A friend of ours just recently had a phone lifted from her handbag – and she had her hand on the zip! These pickpockets have magical skills. Nowadays, I recommend that people travel from Athens Airport to their hotel in Athens city center by pre-booking a taxi for a hassle-free journey.
  • Walk Everywhere You Can : Most people will not need to use public transport during their Athens city stay. Part of the beauty of exploring Athens is doing it on foot. There are large pedestrian areas all around the Acropolis Hill and you can get to the vast majority of popular tourist attractions on foot. Everything within the historic center is within walking distance of one another.
  • Be extra careful at the crosswalks : Be cautious at pedestrian crossings. Drivers may not always stop, even though they are required to. The only place where they seem to stop is the crossing from Syntagma Square to Ermou Street. The green pedestrian crossing signal sometimes allows cars to turn right onto the crossing, so cross with caution. This information applies everywhere in Greece.
  • Don’t rent a car in Athens to see the city : Athens isn’t LA. The very center of the city is more like a small town so you really don’t need to look into car rentals. A car is almost impossible to park in the city center, and you will rarely see a car without a bump or dent on it. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Also read: How to get from Athens Airport to the City Center

Inside Syntagma metro station

(Photo taken inside Syntagma metro station)

Tips About Athens Scams

While Athens is generally a very safe place to visit, like any city in the world, it has its share of scammers and pickpockets. The vast majority of travelers to Athens enjoy their city break without any issues. Some however don't, and these are some of the things that readers have brought to my attention so I could tell others about them. Here's some Athens travel tips to help you avoid potential issues in the city:

  • Taxi Scams in Athens : I personally think that cab drivers in Athens get a bad rap and have never had a bad incident, but unfortunately not everyone has the same experiences with them as I do. Some taxi drivers might take longer routes to increase the fare, claim that the meter is broken, charge extra for items in the trunk. Uber does not work the same way in Greece as in other countries, so even there the fare may be different than you expect. Pre-book your taxis to and from airport and ports with Welcome Pickups. You'll thank me later for the hassle it saves.
  • Pickpocketing in Athens : The green line metro is a hotspot, but in any crowded area such as Syntagma square they might be around. If you carry a handbag, always have it in front of your body, and guys, don't keep your wallet in your back pocket! You might want to avoid keeping in your cards and money in one place.
  • Restaurant Scams : Occasionally, restaurants in tourist areas might add items to your bill that you didn't order. It's a good idea to check prices before ordering and review your bill carefully. In Athens, the tap water is drinkable, so if you feel the bottle of water is overpriced, just ask for tap water. Always ask for a receipt – by law, if they don't give you one, you don't have to pay.
  • Bag snatching and table snatching : When sitting down to eat or have a coffee, don't leave things like bags on the back of the chair. Put them where you can see them, or where other people you are with can see them. Try not to leave your phones on the table – a common scam is that someone will approach with a piece of paper for you to read (a sob story scam) placing it on top of the phone. Then, when they remove the paper, they take the phone away with it.
  • Tourist Traps : There's no real tourist traps to speak of. Personally I find that the restaurants in Psirri are better than those in Plaka, but that's just me! You'll find locals and foreign visitors alike in the Plaka coffee shops – fewer locals eat in this area though.

Also read: Is Athens safe?

Taking a taxi from Athens center to Piraeus Port

Athens Accommodation Tips

Selecting the right accommodation in Athens, Greece is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable stay during your upcoming trip. Nowadays, you can see reviews for most hotels on Booking and Google maps. You want to check the most recent reviews before booking a hotel in Athens or anywhere else for that matter!

  • Location is Key : Choose a location that is central or close to the major attractions you plan to visit. Areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma are popular choices as they are centrally located and offer easy access to historical sites, dining, and shopping.
  • Budget Considerations : Athens offers a wide range of accommodation options to fit various budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and Airbnb rentals, consider what fits your budget while still meeting your needs for comfort and location.
  • Read Reviews : Before booking, read reviews from previous guests. If you're traveling in the summer, make sure the reviews about the air con are all good – Athens can get hot!
  • Pre-book hotels : I recommend Booking as the best place to choose where to stay. Before you rush our and get an AirBnB, see if it is on booking first. They quite commonly are, and a lot cheaper too!

Also read: Athens hotels near the Acropolis

hotel grande bretagne athens greece

Athens Sightseeing Tips

There's more to Athens than just the Acropolis. With other ancient ruins like the Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Roman Agora, as well as top class museums like the National Archaeological Museum and Acropolis Museum , it might be best to plan out a rough itinerary before you go.

Here's some of my Athens travel itineraries you might find useful:

  • One day in Athens
  • Two days in Athens
  • Three days in Athens
  • Four days in Athens

Acropolis Tips

From April 2024 onwards, there’s going to be a shake up of the ticketing system to see the Acropolis. Out is the combo ticket (where you could effectively get in cheaper at other places like the Agora and Hadrian’s Library). In are higher ticket prices, potential VIP tours pre-opening and closing times for the super rich (5000 Euros per group!), and a time-slot system.

  • You don’t need a guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon with a bit of pre-reading. There are also information boards in front of the various buildings.
  • Getting there at opening time during the summer still makes the most sense, especially with the timeslot system. Tip: in 2023 people were queuing up at 07.00 to get inside even though they had pre-bought their ticket in the time-slot system! Why on earth did they do that? They could have just waited until 08.10 and strolled straight in.
  • The official government website to buy tickets for the Acropolis is at hhticket.gr . Other websites selling skip-the-line tickets do so at a mark-up.

The Acropolis can get busy in the summer

Athens Tips

Exploring Athens offers a mix of historical and contemporary experiences. While ancient sites are a significant draw, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy. Here are some sightseeing tips for Athens that go beyond the ancient wonders:

  • Changing of the Guards : Watch the ceremonial changing of the Evzones guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Hellenic Parliament on Syntagma Square. This happens every hour, but the Sunday ceremony at 11 am is more elaborate.
  • Stroll in Plaka and Monastiraki : Wander through these charming neighborhoods with their narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant marketplaces. They offer a blend of traditional and modern Athens.
  • Lycabettus Hill : For the best panoramic views of Athens, including the Acropolis, climb or take the funicular to the top of Lycabettus Hill, especially at sunset.
  • National Garden : Take a break from the urban environment in the National Garden, a large public park in the heart of Athens, near Syntagma Square.
  • The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center : This modern cultural complex houses the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. It's a center for art, education, and entertainment with a stunning park and recreational spaces.
  • Museum Visits : Apart from the famous Acropolis Museum, visit the National Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art for different aspects of Greek history and culture.
  • Street Art Tour : Athens is known for its vibrant street art scene. Explore the city’s graffiti and murals, especially in neighborhoods like Psiri and Exarchia.
  • Anafiotika Area : This picturesque neighborhood on the slopes of the Acropolis hill resembles a Cycladic village, with its small white houses and narrow pathways.
  • Shopping in Ermou Street : For a shopping experience, head to Ermou Street, one of the main shopping streets in Athens, which runs from Syntagma Square towards Monastiraki.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market and Plaka Neighborhood : With souvenir shops and antique stalls, you'll find something nice to take back to friends and relatives in your home country. Olive oil is a popular choice, just make sure to pack it very protectively. Spilt olive oil in a suitcase is not a pretty sight! 

Athens guard changing ceremony

Day Trips From Athens Tips

If you're wondering whether or not Athens is a good base from which to explore nearby attractions, it certainly is! Some of the most popular day trips include guided tours to Delphi , a Unesco World heritage site, Mycenae, Epidavros, and nearby islands like Hydra and Aegina.

Here's a quick look at some of the popular destinations in Greece you can visit under your own steam or as part of a guided tour from Athens:

  • Delphi : Visit the ancient sanctuary of Delphi , once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek times. It's a place full of archaeological treasures and natural beauty.
  • Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon : Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Sounion, where the Temple of Poseidon stands overlooking the Aegean Sea.
  • Meteora : Although a bit further, a trip to Meteora with its monasteries perched atop giant rock formations is a breathtaking experience.
  • Nafplio : Explore the charming town of Nafplio, with its picturesque streets, historic fortresses, and lovely waterfront.
  • Corinth and the Corinth Canal : Visit the ancient city of Corinth, known for its significant archaeological site and the nearby stunning Corinth Canal.
  • Epidaurus : Known for its ancient theater with remarkable acoustics and the sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.
  • Aegina Island : A short ferry ride from Athens, Aegina is perfect for a day trip to enjoy beaches, the temple of Aphaia, and the charming town.
  • Hydra Island : A car-free island known for its preserved architecture, donkeys for transport, and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Mycenae : Explore the archaeological site of Mycenae, home of the legendary Agamemnon and known for its Lion Gate and royal tombs.
  • The Peloponnese : Venture into the Peloponnese region to explore ancient cities like Sparta and Olympia.

Also read: Best day trips from Athens

The site of Delphi in Greece

Tips On Eating Out In Athens

Greek food is one of the most underrated cuisines in the world, and also one of the tastiest! Not particularly heavy on spices, emphasis is placed on traditional dishes cooked in a variety of ways. You'll have heard of moussaka of course (and many restaurants around the historic center of Athens feature it on their menus), but there's a lot more to it than just that.

There's no particular etiquette to eating out in Greece. Dishes can be shared between people, you can order all starters and no mains, or mix and match as you please. Greek cuisine has numerous dishes. Try gemista (stuffed tomatoes) – they are my favorite!

The more touristy places to eat in Athens are to be found with Acropolis views. I'd personally avoid these, but at the same time, eating a meal with an Acropolis view is probably only going to happen once in your life, so why not!

Eat Cheap : Want some cheap eats? My tip is to head to a souvlaki place and buy a couple of wraps. Two of them will be pretty cheap, will cost you less around 7 Euros and keep you going for hours. They make a great lunch!

Also read: Greek food

Eating Greek Food

Tips On Greek Culture

Some readers have asked in the past if there are any faux pas to avoid when visiting Greece and Athens. The answer is not really! There are a few tips on Greek culture that might be useful to help you adjust though:

  • Greeks can be loud : Greeks talk loudly, whether they're on the phone or talking to one another in a cafe. Some Athens visitors might think there's an argument going on, but in reality its just a discussion on the best way to cook something! Oh, and there's a lot of hand gestures with the conversation as well.
  • Greeks speak pretty good English : In Athens, most Greeks you encounter will speak English, so if you are lost, don't be afraid to ask for directions!
  • Respect for Traditions : Greece has a plethora of traditions and religious customs tied to the Orthodox Church. Easter is the biggest religious event of the year. Christmas is a low-key affair and not as commercialised as other countries.
  • Siga Siga : Greeks often have a famously relaxed attitude towards time. The best example of this, is that you can sit quite happily nursing a coffee in a coffee shop for several hours as you people watch, and meals in tavernas can last all evening. If you've come from the ‘eat up and leave' dining culture in the UK, it can be quite a pleasant change!
  • Rules are guidelines : If there's one phrase that sums up Greece for me it is this! For the most part it seems that rules are there as guidelines. You'll see this with the cars parked on the pavements in Athens, motorbikes going the wrong way down streets, and numerous other things.
  • Bureaucracy : Seemingly at odds with the relaxed approach to time and rules is the fact that mindless bureaucracy is embedded into daily life. As a tourist you may not encounter it, but if you ever decide to move to Greece or get involved in the ‘system', you'll encounter a level of bureaucracy that puts India to shame!
  • Toilet paper : I n Greece, you should not flush toilet paper down the toilet. The sewage pipes in Greece are narrower than in many other countries (2 inches in diameter compared to 4 inches in the U.S.), and toilet paper can cause them to clog. Instead, you should dispose of toilet paper in a bin provided next to the toilet.

Do not throw anything in the toilet unless you have eaten it first

Tips On Onward Travel From Athens To The Greek Islands

Athens is a gateway to onward travel to the Greek islands and other places in mainland Greece. A popular 7 day in Greece itinerary includes Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, but there are many other places you can combine when Greek island hopping. Here’s some preparation tips on how to carry on the adventure from Athens to other destinations!

  • You can find the latest ferry schedules and book ferry tickets on line using Ferryscanner
  • Where possible, leave Athens as the last destination on your trip. If a ferry is delayed from an island, it won’t jeopardise your flight back home!
  • Athens has three ferry ports – Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio. It is generally easier to leave or arrive at Piraeus Port if you want to spend time in Athens city center.
  • Don’t take rental cars with you on the ferries – they will not be covered by insurance and it increases the ticket price. Instead, rent a car on each island. Use Discover Cars for local car rentals in Athens and Greece.

Dave from Dave's Travel Pages leaving on a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens Greece

What to do before going to Athens?

Before going to Athens, it's a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance. Athens is rich in history, landmarks, and cultural experiences. Exploring its iconic landmarks and monuments, as well as enjoying its creativity and energy, are key activities​​.

Is Athens tourist-friendly?

Athens is a popular destination and is considered tourist-friendly. It offers a wealth of experiences, from ancient Greek ruins like the Acropolis to world-class museums. The city is well-equipped to accommodate tourists with numerous dining options, cafes, and tours​​.

Is Athens safe to travel to right now?

Athens is generally safe for tourists compared to other global capitals. While major crimes are rare, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur. Some neighborhoods, such as Omonia, Exarchia, and Metaxourgeio, might be less appealing for less confident travelers at night, but they are not necessarily dangerous​​.

Is 3 days in Athens too long?

Three days in Athens is not too long; it allows for a more relaxed exploration of the city. In addition to the main highlights and attractions, you can include visits to the Benaki and Cycladic art museums and even consider day trips from Athens, like the popular trip to Delphi​​.

Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

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Walks Tours Blog

Is Athens Safe To Visit?: A Local’s Perspective

Photo of author

by Shabby Flanders

Last Updated: March 4, 2024

As the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is a dream destination for the millions of tourists who visit every year with the mighty Acropolis, the Museum of Archeology, the fantastic food and food tour scene and historic gems high up on any bucket list.

But before you book your vacation, you may be wondering if there’s any precautions you should take when visiting the Greek capital.

Read along as we dive in and answer the simple question: Is Athens safe?

Exploring ancient sites in Athens, Greece before the crowds arrive

Table of Contents

Is Athens safe?: An overview

In a nutshell, yes it is. 

Though aesthetically, its edginess is more instantaneously noticeable than some of its European counterparts, it is actually widely considered to be much safer than a lot of them. 

Of course, no city is without its crime but providing you deploy the same common sense as anywhere else you may travel, you’ll find that beneath the grit, the history-rich Athens is very safe for tourists. 

The United States travel advice service has Greece in general very low down at Level One recommending visitors merely “Exercise Normal Precautions” and according to the website, Travel Safe , “Athens is considered a very safe city.” On Numbeo which rates cities on safety from 1 to 100, Athens comes out at 43.96, which is a pretty modest score for a big city. 

Here’s what you should know about safety in Athens when exploring this vibrant yet underrated European capital.

A small restaurant patio situated along a small set of stairs, on a small street in Athens, Greece

_______________________

How to travel safely in Athens: Tips and guidance 

Petty theft in athens.

Like most destinations that attract millions of international guests, the most common crime visitors fall victim to is pickpocketing. And Athens is not without its share of it. 

In crowded places around tourist sights, on buses and on the metro, be vigilant and wear your bag in a secure manner. Don’t leave your phone or other valuables in plain sight on the table outside of cafes or bars. 

You should also be aware of bag-snatching which is most likely around banks and ATMs (for obvious reasons). Mind you, it’s very easy to pay by card in Athens these days so there should be little need to withdraw huge stacks of cash.

Scams in Athens

Scams are common in European capitals, but don’t worry too much; they’re easy to avoid if you know what to watch out for.

Here are a few you may encounter on your adventures.

  • The friendship bracelet: Approached with a big smile and a genial greeting, you may be offered a friendship bracelet, for free, to welcome you to the city. Then once your newfound buddy has looped it over your wrist, the free bracelet suddenly isn’t so free anymore. No need to be rude or aggressive, just firmly say no and move on without touching the bracelet. 
  • The broken camera: Most people are friendly by nature and when asked to take a photo for someone, we most likely say yes. Right? But in this scam in Athens, as the camera gets passed over, there is a fumble, it falls to the ground where it breaks and your “fellow traveler” blames you, demanding money for a replacement. We always try to promote connection when visiting new countries but if you’re unsure, just politely decline.

girl taking a picture

  • The charity petition: You may be approached by somebody with a clipboard, often claiming to be from a charity for the deaf, adorned with some sort of faux identification and always asking if you’ll sign a petition. You’ll likely be asked for a donation for this sham charity or occasionally even pickpocketed under the clipboard as you sign your name. Again, a polite decline should do it. 
  • The street game: A group of random strangers are huddled around a person offering a cash prize if players can guess which cup a ball is hidden under after the identical cups have been shuffled around. People are winning, so this may be the real deal. But these are not random strangers and the person bagging the euros for their correct guesses is in cahoots with the scammer. This is one game you are never going to win so just walk on by. 
  • Taxi scams: We must make it clear that most taxi drivers in Athens are honest people doing an honest job. But similarly to most cities, there are those who will literally take tourists for a ride. Rather than taking the scenic route or ending up at an overpriced, low-quality restaurant where the driver gets a kickback, only use taxis with meters and agree on a price before getting on, while being firm on your desired destination. Uber is available but be aware it will still use the local yellow taxis (but you can see the cost ahead of booking). Most locals use FREE NOW , which even allows you to pre-book. This would be our pick.

taxi in Athens, Greece

Terrorism in Athens

There is an ongoing global threat of terrorism. However, Athens is not considered to be a high-risk city. While incidents pertaining to terrorism in Athens have occurred, they are usually targeted at government buildings and rarely impact tourists. As always, just be vigilant and take any official warnings seriously. Insider’s Tip: The Greek people are lovers of liberty and as such, there are often protests and demonstrations around Athens. Most of these would be unlikely to disrupt your visit but they are worth being aware of.

protesters in the street holding signs

Heatwaves in Athens

Athens has always been hot in summer but in recent times, the rising temperatures have seen some catastrophic wildfires erupt just outside of Athens. Again, follow official instructions to remain safe in Athens during these times. 

Furthermore, during a heatwave, wear light clothing, keep hydrated, and take things slow. Do as the locals do— there’s no need to rush around at breakneck speed!

Greek table with feta cheese, a plate of olives, and a frosty beer

Solo Female Travelers in Athens

With the caveat of using the same common sense you’d use elsewhere and trusting your instincts, Athens is generally considered a very safe city for solo women travelers with very low rates of crimes against foreign females.

Guide explains the Parthenon to visitors in Athens, Greece

LGBTQ+ in Athens

Queer culture has a history in Athens dating all the way back to the classical era, with Sappho and Plato (at least, for a time) openly enjoying same-sex relations and then writing about it.

While Greece in general has had some more conservative eras like much of Europe, it’s considered to be one of the most gay-friendly destinations to visit on the continent. Athens, its liberal capital, is no exception. 

There is a large local LGBTQ+ population and some areas that are especially welcoming including Gazi and Psiri  with plenty of bars, cafes and hotels catering to a queer clientele.

multicolored striped flag waving in the air

Is Athens safe?: Final thoughts

Athens is an incredible city with a cornucopia of things to do, to drink, to devour, and we cannot recommend it highly enough. 

We hope these top tips have helped you answer any questions you may have on whether it is safe in Athens, and will help you make the most of your trip to one of our favorite (and most flavorful) destinations in Europe.

Monastiraki Square in Athens, Greece with the Monastiraki Flea Market in foreground.

If your mind is at ease and you’re ready to book those flights and hotels in Athens, maybe you’d like to start thinking about what to do during your trip too. Experience the richness of millennia of history in a 6-hour walking tour that includes visiting the Acropolis before the crowds arrive, exploring the Greek Agora, walking on the world’s oldest street, and wandering through ancient ruins. Our Athens in a Day tour offers you the best way to explore Athens comprehensively.

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About the author

Born in Britain and made in the Med, Shabby is a true ‘Enfant de Bohême’, splitting her time between her native London and her adopted home on the island of Malta. As a tour guide, writer, wanderer, and culinary history obsessive, she adores challenging assumptions about the food in her birth city. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic food. Follow along on her adventures via Instagram at @shabbyontour

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Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Panoramic view of the Acropolis on a hill with other historical ruins around in Athens, Greece

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

view of Athens, Greece

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

Cafe tables lining an alleyway covered with a lush tree branches, surrounded by bright yellow buildings, in Athens, Greece.

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

Bright, natural-light-filled train station in Athens with a colorful subway car.

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 Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

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

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

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Rebecca Hall

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to one of the world's most storied cities, Athens

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. 

An overhead view of historic Monastiraki Sq in Athens, Greece

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.

An overhead view of a turquoise sea with people on the beach in Athens, Greece

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.

Women toast with glasses of white wine at a restaurant in Athens, Greece

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.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

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No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

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Is Athens Safe? Solo Traveling to Athens Greece

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 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

The Solo Guide to Athens Greece | Places You Must 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 Solo Guide to Athens Greece | Places You Must See In Athens

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.

The Solo Guide to Athens Greece | Places You Must See In Athens

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.

must see in Athens,greece,solo travel greece,solo guide,solo guide to athen,is Athens safe,traveling to Athens Greece

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

The Solo Guide to Athens Greece | Places You Must See In Athens

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.

The Solo Guide to Athens Greece | Places You Must See In Athens

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.

The Solo Guide to Athens Greece

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  

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Essential travel guide to athens, greece [2024].

Many people visit Athens for the history and archaeology, of course. The Pantheon and other Roman ruins in the city are astounding. The views from the top of the Acropolis are unbelievable. And then there’s the food . Don’t forget about the incredible foodie experiences that will introduce you to the amazing food in Athens.

To show you the best side of Athens, we’ve put together this essential travel guide to Athens. It will help you start planning your trip by showing you the hotels we recommend, neighborhoods we love, things to do, and places to eat and drink in the Athens.

» Check out these 12 Best Greek Islands for Couples.

Athens Greece

These are not only some of the top things to do, see, eat and drink in Athens, they are also some of our personal favorites. It is an awesome city, plus it’s easy and safe to walk around.

»» Seeing more of Greece? Be sure to check out our Greece travel guide , the most incredible places to see in Greece , as well as what to do in Santorini . We also have a guide to traveling by ferry to the islands.

Are you planning your trip to Athens?

If you’re  traveling to Athens , ensure you have lodging and tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!

  • Book a transfer from the airport to Athens city center with Welcome Pickups.
  • Rent a car from the Athens airport through Discover Cars for the best deals.

Where to Stay in Athens:

  • The Pinnacle Athens  (5-star luxury hotel, amazing views from rooftop terrace)
  • MET34 Athens  (In Syntagma Square, breakfast included)
  • Athens Gate Hotel (Opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus, free breakfast)

Best Tours and Experiences in Athens:

  • Acropolis Museum + Acropolis tickets (Skip-the-line entrance to the museum)
  • The Athens Pass (Acropolis museum, Acropolis & Archaeological Sites: Combo Ticket, and city tour audio guide included)
  • Tickets for Athens Bike Tour: Ride and Bite (2.5 hour bike ride, including food)

Table of Contents

What To Do in Athens

Most visitors who are new to Athens are interested in checking out the Acropolis and the Parthenon first. It will take you a full day to walk around the hillside citadel and the other well-preserved 5th century landmarks, like Ancient Agora and Keramikos Cemetery. You can visit these archaeological sites with one multi-site ticket.

After seeing the ruins of the mighty Roman empire, you’ll want to visit the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum to fill in the picture of what life was like in ancient Athens.

Parthenon

For neighborhoods, the two you can’t miss are Plaka and Monastiraki. These two areas are bustling with people and filled with restaurants, coffee shops and bars. Make sure you save time for an afternoon Frappe (very popular cold coffee). In Monastiraki be sure to stop by the Varvakios Agora market to explore the indoor and outdoor market stalls.

We also recommend booking yourself an Athens food tour to become acquainted with all the delicious food and drinks of Athens. 

Loukoumades

With so many great things to do in Athens, you really need to set up a good itinerary before you leave, to make sure you fit everything in.  You can pre-book some of the activities listed in our shortcut travel guide to Athens (below), by using the links below for Viator and GetYourGuide. (Note: They are affiliate links for which we receive a small commission.)

  • Athens Full Day Private Tour
  • Athens Small-Group Food Tour
  • Acropolis Walking Tour Including Syntagma Square and Historical City Centre
  • Private Greek Cooking Class with Organic Products – With Locals
  • Athens All Included: Acropolis and Museum In a Cultural Guided Walking Tour
  • Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens
  • Athens Highlights: a Mythological Tour

There are so many things to do in Athens that you will surely never run out. Here’s a great plan for a long weekend in Athens .

Tours To Book:

Where to stay in athens.

NEW Hotel in Athens

Most visitors will want to stay near the ancient ruins so they can easily get to and walk around the historical sites. That’s very easy to do in Athens and it puts you right in the middle of the action of the city, so I highly recommend doing just that. Since there are many parts of the city that are accessible to the historic sites, you can branch out a bit and still walk to everything.

Here are our hotel recommendations. You can use the links below to read reviews or book your hotel (these are affiliate links, for which we receive a small commission):

  • New Hotel (near Syntagma Square): Lovely design hotel with in-room balconies, within walking distance of the main squares.  Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay  
  • AVA Hotel & Suites Athens: Just a very short walk from the Acropolis, shopping and restaurants. Rooms are spacious, clean, and beautifully appointed.   Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay
  • Electra Metropolis Athens:  Incredible views of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace, and some rooms. Nice rooms and great service.  Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay

Need more options? Check out these Hotels in Athens, Greece

View from our balcony at NEW Hotel in Athens

How to Get to Athens

Athens International Airport, Eleftherios Venizelos , is one of the most organized and modern airports in the world. It is well connected with public transport, so it’s easy to get there from anywhere in Athens. Many direct flights from  abroad arrive in Athens.

Once you’re at the airport, you can take Metro Line 3, which connects the airport to the city center. Trains run every 30 minutes, 7 days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The trip from/to the Airport to Syntagma Square station (which is likely where you’ll be staying) takes about 40 minutes.

Book a Transfer

The fastest way to get to the city is by taxi, but you might prefer to use Welcome Pickups instead. We like to pre-book a transfer service, so we know someone will be waiting for us at the airport and we’ll be able to go directly where we want without delay.

With Welcome Pickups, you can book a private transfer for the same price as getting a taxi from the line. Both cost 38€. The drivers are skilled, English-speaking and will monitor your flight for delays. It’s the clear winner. Book your transfer in advance here .

Essential Travel Guide to Athens

Essential Travel Guide to Athens

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Be prepared for travel.

Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

  • Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
  • Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
  • Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
  • Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Laura

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

14 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to Athens, Greece [2024] ”

Wow, what a detailed graphic! I look forward to checking some of this out, like Montastriaki since it’s a neighborhood for everyone 🙂

As a local in Athens, I totally approve your guide!Taf is one of my fave places for a drink or coffee too!

Love the infographic, thanks for the downloadable PDF! I’m interested to get to Athens and would love to explore Greece, though I don’t know what to expect from Athens itself. Have heard mixed reviews that it’s a very dirty city, but is a great base for exploring the surrounds. Only one way to find out I guess!

That’s a cool infographic, Laura. It’s an easy and quick reference at a glance. Nicely done.

Ohh, i really like the idea of presenting. It’s very informative and at the same time very engaging. Would try to do the same.

So jealous! I’ve always wanted to go to Greece. Such an amazing history. Hopefully I’ll get there and be able to use this guide soon!

What a fab guide and awesome graphic! You’ve covered so much and that it’s available in pdf for is great! Well done!

Great idea to compile an infographic with tips on visiting Athens! Bookmarking for our next visit to Greece.

not been to Athens since I was kid and I would love to go back and probably enjoy the history of the city a bit more now I am older

I think you’d likely enjoy it a lot more now. It’s definitely worth a return trip.

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Woow. Great post. Missed athens

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Is Athens Safe In 2024? Top 6x Things Travelers Should Know

Category Greece , Athens , Travel Updated on January 23, 2024

is athens safe

Athens, Greece is a top travel destination in the world. There are millions of tourists each year who visit this bustling metropolis to see the famous Acropolis, eat Greek food and immerse themselves in Greek culture.

Matthew and I love Athens so much that we decided to live there for 2 months as digital nomads. We truly got to experience what it was like to live like a local and scope out the safety situation for ourselves. As Athens is a city in Europe, it must be a safe place for tourists to explore right? Well, you might want to think again.

It’s not completely crazy to wonder, “Is Athens safe?”. This capital city of Greece has nearly 3.7 million inhabitants – crime almost seems inevitable right?

Your safety is something that you need to consider every time you travel to a new country – no matter where that is in the world. If you’re still wondering, “is Athens safe for me?” and should I visit this city…

Here’s all you need to know about safety in Athens – the stats, the kind of scam to avoid, our personal experiences with safety in Athens and the top tips to keep yourself safe from any danger.

Athens Safety Statistics & Facts

Want the numbers to whether Athens is safe?

We’ve got you covered! There’s a lot of hearsay and talk about what safety in Athens is truly like. The only way to understand the safety in Athens is to look at the numbers year after year.

panoramic views of athens

Here are some statistics and facts to help answer the question “Is Athens safe?”:

  • The top criminal activities in Greece: Illicit trade, extortion and trafficking are the top crimes that occur. These types of crimes are typically directed at locals rather than a tourist visiting Athens.
  • Crime rates are trending upwards. While crime has been trending upward in recent years, although it is relatively low compared to the population and other countries in the world.
  • Greece has nearly 30 million visitors every year (pre-pandemic). That’s a lot of people that visit one country – it’s higher than the entire population of Australia! Crime almost seems inevitable in a place where there are that many tourists.
  • Low-threat location. According to the US Department of State, Greece is a very low-threat country relative to other places in the world.

Overall, Athens is a safe city to visit in Europe. You don’t need to look over your shoulder every couple of minutes but it is still good to keep your wits about you. After all, danger strikes when you’re least expecting it!

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details and answer the question “Is Athens safe?” below.

Is Athens Safe To Visit In 2024?

In general, Athens is a safe city for tourists to visit in 2024. The crime rates are relatively low compared to other European capitals. Make sure to use common sense and still be aware of your surroundings! There’s a reason millions of people flock to the vibrant city of Athens, safety is just one of them!

acropolis from a distance

6x Crimes In Athens To Watch Out For

The best way to keep safe (no matter where you are) is to understand what you’re dealing with. You can be sure all kinds of crime occur in Athens, just like most big cities in the world – drugs, petty theft, scams and more.

Here are the certain types of crimes you should be aware of as a tourist visiting Athens in 2024:

1. Petty Theft

This is probably the most common crime directed toward tourists. While the crime rate in Athens is very low, it’s still possible to experience petty theft.

What’s petty theft exactly? It’s basically when someone takes something (steals) that isn’t theirs without permission. The value of items stolen in a petty theft isn’t usually worth more than $1500. This can include crimes such as mugging, pickpocketing and purse snatching.

streets of athens

Where does petty crime occur in Athens? Unfortunately, it’s usually in touristy areas and attractions. These crimes can also occur in sketchy neighborhoods in Athens, areas like Omonia, Exarchia and more. As Athens is generally safe, although crime usually happens late in the night. It’s unlikely someone will try to snatch your phone in broad daylight with all the other tourists around.

Another area where petty crimes can happen is near and around the metro stations in Athens. We have heard multiple accounts where people have been scammed and pickpocketed as they enter trains, during a train ride or as they exit the station.

2. Overpriced Taxis

Petty crime is probably less likely to happen to you than it is for you to overpay for a taxi in Athens.

Matthew and I distinctly remember coming off the Santorini ferry in Piraeus port, looking to get a taxi to the city. We got a guy who was overly-friendly which is always a warning sign for us. Anyway, we agreed on a price and he gave reasons why it was so much higher than what we remember. We definitely overpaid for that taxi by almost double – this seems usual in Athens.

athens airport greece

The biggest place you will experience this is at ferry ports and even when you’re trying to get from Athens airport to the city center . It’s hard to tell what the right price to pay for a taxi is and that’s why we rely on rideshare apps to tell us. Even if we choose not to take a rideshare, we go on the app and check how much it would cost to get from A to B. This gives you a little advantage as you’re not starting from 0 when negotiating with taxis!

freenow athens rideshare app

If you want to avoid negotiating with taxis, download the FreeNow app . It’s similar to Uber and it’s available all across the city! Uber is also available in Greece but we found FreeNow always had lower prices and more cars available.

3. Higher Or Incorrect Restaurant Bills

Yes, it does happen. You might see some prices on the menu and once you get the bill – it’s completely different. This is something that does happen in Greece – it’s usually unlikely but it does happen.

restaurants in athens

I watched a Tiktok of a woman being threatened to pay an incorrect bill at a restaurant in Mykonos. They inflated the prices like crazy – the bill for 2 drinks and 2 meals came out to over €1000! They said they wouldn’t pay that and they were suddenly swarmed with staff around them, threatening that they would find them if they don’t pay the bill.

This kind of crime seems to be more common on the islands – you won’t have to worry too much about this happening in Athens.

4. The ‘Dropped Something’ Scam

There’s a common scam around the world – not just in Athens, where someone will pretend to drop something and if you pick it up for them – they will steal something from you as you give it back.

plaka neighborhood

It sucks as they are using your kindness to steal from you. If someone drops something, just don’t pick it up unless you’re 100% it’s okay. You can be the judge for yourself and it’s important to just be aware of your surroundings at all times!

The hardest thing about Athens having a low crime rate is that you can begin to get complacent and lazy with your safety. Unfortunately, that’s when your safety can become at risk. If you continue to be aware and vigilant, you will see that Athens is safe!

5. The Bracelet Scam

This scam is pretty common all across the main tourist destinations like Paris and Athens.

Here’s how it works: A person will come up to you and make a bracelet for you. They will then put that bracelet on your hand. They will tie it onto your hand and once it’s on – they will demand you to pay for it. When we were there last, I believe the cost was somewhere ridiculous like €10-€15 for a simple string bracelet.

roman agora area

This specific scam can be found near the Roman Agora, people will be loitering around looking for people. Simply tell them a firm NO and continue walking along.

6. The ‘Let Me Help You’ Scam

I didn’t know how to explain or name this type of scam. I only know about it because one of my friends on Instagram experienced this scam in Athens!

Here’s how this scam works: you come out of the metro station with all your luggage. Some guy will approach you and offer to help you with your luggage. And by that, they will literally take your luggage off of you. Once you try to take your luggage back from them, there will be another guy trying to steal your other bags from you. It can work as you have both hands free trying to get your luggage, leaving your other valuables at risk.

greek metro

Is Athens safe when these kinds of crimes happen? Yes, Athens is relatively safe compared to other countries but be aware that these scams still exist today!

Who Is Safe To Travel To Athens, Greece?

Everyone! Athens is safe for all types of travelers.

The biggest risk that you’ll have is pickpocketing which is quite common in most countries!

Is Athens Safe To Travel Solo?

Yes, Athens is safe for solo travelers! Greece is one of the top tourist destinations in the world and it’s such a beautiful country with so much to offer.

taking the metro athens

You can easily do activities and attractions on your own without worry. Greek people are also pretty warm and welcoming which makes it a great place to get to know locals safely. The only place you’ll have to be more vigilant is when you’re taking public transportation.

If you’re traveling to Athens solo, don’t get scared off because it’s relatively safe!

Is Athens Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Athens is safe for solo female travelers. As with any destination, it’s important to take all the necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings (especially as a solo female traveler). There is a small increase in crime in recent years and that means you need to keep your wits about you and be street-smart as you explore the city.

shopping in athens

Greece is a top travel destination for solo females looking to enjoy a Greek adventure! The Greek capital has taken steps to ensure the safety of its visitors and that includes solo female travelers. The only thing to be aware of is that Greek men can be a little more forward than you might be used to and it may be common that people to look at you or approach you.

If you ever feel like you’re in danger, the police presence is quite strong in Athens. You can walk up to them if anything is going wrong.

Is Athens Safe For Digital Nomads?

We lived as Athens digital nomads for 2 months in 2021 and felt completely safe the entire time! Athens is a vibrant, exciting city with lots of things to do and see for digital nomads to work online and travel.

ashley digital nomad greece

The crime rate in Athens is relatively low compared to other cities in Europe. For digital nomads who have lots of expensive gear with them, safety is quite an important factor. The good news is that it’s fairly safe in Athens to be cafe-hopping with your laptop in your backpack .

4x Tips To Help Keep You Safe In Athens

Is Athens safe?

It’s a fair question to ask before heading to a new city as a tourist. Athens isn’t a small city either, it’s a big metropolis with millions of people living and working. It’s bound to have some trouble and crime but in general, Athens is safe regardless!

But that doesn’t mean you can just let it all go. It’s important that no matter where you are, you are aware of your surroundings and vigilant as you go around a city like Athens.

1. Don’t Stand Out Like A Sore Thumb

One of the worst things you can do as a tourist is show off all your bling when you go out. This will make you an easy target for pickpockets and other criminals.

Hear me out – it’s very normal to wear your usual everyday jewelry. The thing that I’m talking about is when you wear luxury goods over luxury goods – people know that you have something worth stealing.

If you want to stay safe and not attract pickpockets to you – the best thing to do is to put the luxury goods away.

2. Stay In The Right Areas Of The City

Athens is a big city. There are going to be great areas that are safe and fun to live in but there are also dodgy areas that feel sketchy and maybe even a little dangerous. Figuring out where to stay in Athens can make or break your experience!

safe streets in athens

One of the best things you can do to stay safe in Athens is to choose the right area to stay in. Here are some popular tourist areas that feel safe:

Athens is generally considered a safe city, but like any other large urban area, certain areas can be dangerous. The most dangerous neighborhoods in Athens are usually located further away from the city center and tend to have higher crime rates. These areas often have narrow alleyways that can be intimidating to walk through, especially at night. Here are some neighborhoods in Athens to avoid:

  • Monastiraki
  • Kolokotroni
  • Victoria Square

Before you book accommodation in Athens, this is definitely something to consider. While it’s unlikely dangerous things will happen in Athens – choosing to stay in the right neighborhood will make your walks home at night much more comfortable. 

3. Be Aware When Amongst Crowds Of People

Got lots of people around you? It’s important to stay alert in those moments!

This didn’t happen in Athens but one of my scariest pickpocketing experiences happened in Barcelona on a super crowded metro ride. Everyone was packed in like sardines and I had people pushing up against me – my phone was in my pocket and the next minute, I saw this old man holding my phone. I only recognized it because the screen lit up and it had my wallpaper! I quickly snatched it back from his hand and got off at the next stop. It turns out 3 old people were targeting me!

monastariki square athens

A big crowd usually means that thieves and robbers can strike at any time. It’s very hard to feel like you’ve lost something from your pocket. And let me tell you – some experienced people can easily take your necklace, watch or phone off you without you even noticing!

This might get you questioning “Is Athens safe?” and don’t get me wrong, it is generally safe but you don’t want to turn a blind eye to what still goes on!

4. Double Check Your Bills

One of the sly ways foreigners get scammed is by getting a higher bill than what was on the menu. Some people will invite you into their restaurant and the prices will look reasonable on the menu until…

…they give you the bill and it’s way higher than it’s supposed to be. This kind of thing happens in the main tourist areas like Monastiraki and Syntagma Square. It’s hard to distinguish whether this is going to happen beforehand so just beware and double-check before sitting down.

eating at greek restaurants

Be aware that mistakes also do happen! It’s not always going to be higher on purpose – they might’ve added something extra that you didn’t actually order. That’s totally normal and happens everywhere! The difference is when they make you pay the higher bill even though there is no way that you could have to spent that much.

Be Safe In Athens And Get Travel Insurance

The best way to protect yourself when traveling is to simply get travel insurance . Whether you’re riding a scooter through the rice fields in Bali or walking the ancient streets of Athens, you will need to have travel insurance!

safetywing best digital nomad insurance overall

As digital nomads who travel full-time, we don’t go anywhere without travel insurance. Thankfully for people working remotely like us, there have been a few insurance companies made specifically for us! These are the 3 companies you can choose as a digital nomad:

  • Genki Insurance
  • PassportCard Nomads

We personally chose Genki Insurance as it starts from €39.30 (about $42.89 USD) per month and it’s created by digital nomads. However, we recently did a complete Safetywing review and they are one of the top insurance options based on their policies, deductibles and max limits. PassportCard Nomads is also a great option if you are willing to pay more for better coverage! Just make sure you do your own research and choose the insurance that works for you personally.

If you want to learn more, we wrote an honest review of the best travel insurance out there! 

BOTTOM LINE: Is Athens, Greece Safe For Tourists To Visit In 2024?

Is Athens safe for tourists in 2024? In general, yes!

Athens is one of the most popular European cities to visit. This city is bustling with charm, history and a long list of things to do. It’s hard to get bored in such a vibrant city, especially as a tourist!

But is Athens truly safe? In our personal experience, after living in Athens for 2 months, we felt completely safe. I would walk around Athens by myself without hesitation! Nothing happened to us while we were there and we think Athens is safe for any kind of traveler – solo, digital nomads, etc.

Don’t get me wrong – there has been an upward trend of crime in recent years but Athens is still very safe! When you compare it to other cities, Athens has extremely low crime rates and it’s still considered safe for tourists to visit in 2024.

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Athens Solo Travel Guide For First Timers: Tips + Map

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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!

A woman sitting solo in Athens wearing sunglasses with the Acropolis in the background

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 100% 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 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!

Read More: Multi-City European Travel Planning

📲 Downloadable Map of Athens

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

safe to travel to athens

📍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 !

What is Athens Known For?

The archeological sites of Athens, Greece

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?

A woman sitting on a bench in Athens alone with the city in front of her

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 welcoming locals, and an abundance of attractions so you’ll never be bored.

My solo travel experience in the Greek capital was a wonderful cultural experience.

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!

Where is Athens Located?

Athens is located in southeastern Europe on the Greek mainland. The city lies along the Saronic Gulf and is surrounded by mountains to the north and east.

Athens is just an hour away from some of Greece’s most beautiful islands , including Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

What I love about Athens is that it’s easy to get to Athens from other major European cities by plane, train, or boat.

As a solo traveler, I always look for cities where you can often find a good deal on flights. I use Skyscanner to find me the cheapest flights to Athens!

Quick Tip: Try searching with flexible dates to see when is the best time to visit Athens!

Is Athens Safe for Solo Female Travel?

A woman sitting solo in Athens with the ancient buildings in the background

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.

What safety tips should I follow for solo travel 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 .

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.

Is Athens worth visiting alone?

safe to travel to athens

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!

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.

Getting Around Athens Solo

Taking Public transit in 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.

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?

safe to travel to athens

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

What are the closest Greek Islands to Athens?

If you are visiting Athens alone and want to take a ferry to a nearby island or two, some are closer than others.

Visiting Crete by ferry from Athens for example is a long journey, and likely smarter to go by flight. But, the island of Hydra would be a great island to visit from Athens by ferry .

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

Visiting Athens Solo

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

Monastiraki Flea Market

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

strolling the Plaka Neighborhood

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

View of the 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

A street cafe in Athens, Greece.

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.

Incredible places for a picnic in Athens

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.

What activities should you try while in Athens?

Athens offers a variety of activities for solo travelers to enjoy. If you’re looking for an adventure, consider kayaking or sailing around the Saronic Gulf .

You can also take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Greek dishes like moussaka or tzatziki sauce. Another popular activity is going on a city tour by bike, which allows you to explore all of Athens’ attractions in an exciting way.

Athens also features plenty of outdoor concerts and festivals, so make sure to check out the city’s events calendar during your stay. With so much to do in this lively city, solo travelers can easily create a memorable trip!

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.

Where should I stay solo in Athens?

A modern Hotel Room with bed and chair picutred

I have explored Athens and its vibrant neighborhoods all possessing unique character. For solo travelers looking for a lively atmosphere, the district of Monastiraki is ideal, with plenty of restaurants and bars lined up along the pedestrian-only street.

If you’re looking for something more laid back and residential, check out Plaka, a picturesque neighborhood filled with cafes and boutique shops .

For a more upscale experience, Kolonaki is your best bet, offering designer stores and luxurious hotels.

And if you’re looking for something budget-friendly, Psiri offers plenty of cheap lodging options as well as lively nightlife.

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.

Related: Best Hotels in Athens with Rooftop Pools

Koukaki Neighborhood

The Koukaki neighborhood in Athens is the perfect destination for solo travelers.

You will have direct access to many of the major attractions such as the Acropolis, National Archaeological Museum, and Plaka.

The streets are lined with some of my favorite cafes, restaurants, and bars. Koukayi is a great place to enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and drinks.

The neighborhood also features numerous art galleries and shops, providing plenty of opportunities for shopping and sightseeing.

One of the best hotel experiences I’ve had in Athens was at Coco-Mat Athens BC . If you are visiting in the summer you must check out the rooftop pool and rooftop bar.

❤︎ Click here to find all the best hotels in the Koukaki neighborhood.

Monastiraki Neighborhood

The Monastiraki district of Athens is a popular destination for solo travelers. This hip area offers plenty of attractions such as the Ancient Agora, Roman Market, and Temple of Hephaestus.

The streets are lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and drinks.

There is also an array of shops, galleries, and boutiques offering unique souvenirs and handmade items.

In addition, several hostels in the area offer comfortable accommodations for solo travelers on a budget.

❤︎ Click here to find all the best hotels in the Monastiraki neighborhood .

Kolonaki Neighborhood

The Kolonaki neighborhood in Athens is the perfect destination for solo travelers looking for a more upscale experience.

Located within walking distance of many major attractions such as the Acropolis, National Archaeological Museum, and Syntagma Square, this vibrant area provides easy access to all that Athens has to offer.

The streets are lined with designer stores, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and drinks.

❤︎ Click here to find all the best hotels in the Kolanki neighborhood .

Plaka Neighborhood

The Plaka district of Athens is a great destination for solo travelers looking to explore the city’s old-world charm.

This picturesque neighborhood is home to cobblestone streets lined with traditional Greek taverns and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks.

With its quaint atmosphere, convenient location, and range of affordable accommodation options, Plaka is an ideal place to stay while visiting Athens!

❤︎ Click here to find all the best hotels in the Plaka neighborhood.

Psiri Neighborhood

Staying in Psiri

The Psiri neighborhood in Athens is the perfect destination for solo travelers looking for a budget-friendly experience. WARNING. It can get loud in Psiri though. It is home to a lot of the bars that get rather busy.

❤︎ Click here to find all the best hotels in the Priri neighborhood .

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!

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Greek taverna or an upscale restaurant, there are plenty of options in Athens that will satisfy your taste buds!

Some must-try restaurants include:

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!

getting alone and getting best seafood in athens

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!

Noodle dish at Winners Vegan

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 .

There are also many cafes and bars along the Agora where you can enjoy traditional Greek coffee or a glass of ouzo!

What are the best solo travel day trips from Athens?

solo day trip from Athens to the Temple of Poseidon

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. For an idyllic seaside getaway, head to Kea Island, which is easily accessible by ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens.

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

Most Popular Greek Islands for Solo Travelers

Greek island travel for solo women

For solo travelers looking to explore the beauty of Greece , there are a variety of stunning islands that offer amazing experiences and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

The most popular islands include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete , Corfu, Rhodes , and Kefalonia.

I would recommend checking out Greek Islands that are a little less famous , such as Serifos. Known for its beautiful beaches, Serifos is one of those islands you can go alone to read a book and just check out.

If you want to visit the most idyllic Greek island, then check out Santorini. It is known for its picturesque villages, stunning sunsets, and breathtaking views.

Mykonos was one of the first Greek islands I have ever visited. Known for its vibrant nightlife and lively beach bars.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and features a rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and unique local cuisine. Each area of Crete offers something different for solo travelers.

Corfu offers tranquil beaches perfect for relaxation and plenty of cultural attractions to explore.

Rhodes combines ancient history with modern attractions, while Kefalonia is a paradise of stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

No matter which island you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure! Check for ferry tickets below!

RELATED: GREEK ISLANDS BEST FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Conclusion On Visiting Athens

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!

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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.

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Greece travel guide: Popular tourist destinations from Athens to the islands

Greece remains a perennial tourism favorite for its beaches, mediterranean villages, history, archeology and cuisine.

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Prince Michael of Greece has no regrets ditching throne for woman

Prince Michael of Greece, who is married to celebrated artist Marina Karella, has a new photo memoir, ‘Crown, Art, and Fantasy: A Life in Pictures.’

Greece is a country that has always loomed large in the American imagination. With its beautiful Mediterranean landscape, towering mountains and over 6,000 islands, it is a nation where magical memories are made.

It's also a nation steeped in rich history. One of the world's great ancient civilizations, it made pivotal contributions to government, philosophy, literature and the arts, forming the world's first democracy in Athens in 508 BC. 

With a large and vibrant population of Greek Americans, Greek cuisine has spread far and wide. From rich lamb dishes, moussaka, spanakopita and souvlaki, to gyros topped with Greece's signature sauce, the yogurt-based tzatziki, Greek dining features many classics that have reached international acclaim. 

Baklava, a rich pastry of honey and a blend of nuts and spices, is as associated with Greece as ouzo, the national spirit, an anise-flavored aperitif that is almost an essential to accompany any meal.

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Greek flag

The Greek flag (Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

In the modern era, Greece saw occupation by Italian and German forces during World War II but emerged as a democratic market-based economy during the post-war reconstruction of Europe. 

As the Iron Curtain of the Soviet Union descended upon Eastern Europe, Greece was spared the ravages of communism, aided by forceful diplomatic intervention on the part of the United States and United Kingdom to ensure that the nation did not fall under the Soviet sphere of influence.

Though Greece has endured a somewhat turbulent social, political and economic history since, including a civil war and a series of economic crises, it remains an exceedingly popular tourist destination and has such varied appeal it offers something for everyone.

Athens is the nation's capital and likely the start and end of every Greek excursion. Not only does it have the nation's primary international airport, but nearby Piraeus is also the nation's major port, where enormous ferry ships connect the mainland with the islands on a daily basis.

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athens ruins

Athens has history and great beaches. (iStock)

Athens is a city teeming with history, culture and architecture and is best explored on foot. Top destinations include the Acropolis, with its iconic Parthenon; the Ancient Agora; Monastirki and its accompanying market; and the National Archaeological Museum. The Parthenon is the most famous attraction in Greece.

It is a temple commissioned by Pericles in 447 BC and dedicated to the patron goddess of Athens, Athena. Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the city, it still makes for a stunning sight today.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and a fascinating tourist destination in its own right. Its most famous icon is the 15th-century White Tower, which sits on the waterfront downtown. Contained inside is an interesting and thorough exhibition documenting the city's history and its role as a crossroads of civilizations.

The Roman-constructed Arch of Galerius, built to commemorate an epic victory over the Persians, stands next to the Rotonda, which historians believe may have been built as a mausoleum for Galerius. 

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Summer travel destinations

Athens, Greece (iStock)

Just south of Thessaloniki is the laid-back beach town of Kalamaria. With affordable prices for seaside hotels and dozens of excellent restaurants offering traditional Greek dishes , sushi, pizza and everything in between, it has long been a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, both foreign and domestic. It's also easily accessible, just 10 minutes from the airport.

Mykonos has established a reputation as one of the most glamorous Mediterranean vacation destinations. It features fine dining, a raucous nightclub and entertainment scene and long, pristine beaches, including Kalafatis and Platys Gialos. It has long attracted an artistic and intellectually-minded clientele with its live music, theater, dance and art galleries.

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An added bonus is its proximity to the island of Delos, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites . It is the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo in Greek mythology and served as an important place for religious pilgrimage throughout Greek history. Today, visitors can enjoy mosaics, temple ruins and a trio of 7th century BC structures — the Lion Terrace, the Theater and the Theater Quarter.

Gleaming white Santorini, with its internationally renowned sunsets, is arguably the most famous island destination in Greece. This volcanic island features black sand beaches , towering cliffs and quaint villages and is regularly visited by major cruiselines.

GREECE SUNSET

Sunset at dawn in the village of Oia, Greece (iStock)

Fira, the capital city, is perched on a towering cliff and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. On the northern tip of the island, westward-facing Oia is famed for having the most beautiful sunset in the Mediterranean. Thousands of tourists gather daily at the end of the day to watch the last rays of sunlight gleam across the picturesque white-washed buildings.

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For those seeking a laid-back beachfront experience, Kamari, on the island's eastern side, is an excellent choice. Not to be missed is the Thera ruins, which tower over the island, and are best reached by an ATV, which can be rented at reasonable prices at numerous locations around the island.

David Unsworth reports on Latin America. You can follow David Unsworth on Twitter @LatinAmerUpdate

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COMMENTS

  1. Is Athens Safe to Visit? A Local's 2024 Guide

    Athens is arguably one of the most underrated cities in Europe.Athens is arguably one of the most underrated cities in Europe. It offers a wonderful blend of old meets new with its world-famous archaeological sites, contemporary museums, a varied nightlife scene, incredible Athenian restaurants, and modern city living.. More than 30 million tourists visit Greece every year and most visits to ...

  2. Is Athens Safe? Areas to Avoid and Other Warnings

    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 ...

  3. Is Athens Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2024 Safety Rating)

    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.

  4. 13 Greece Scams To Avoid

    Crime in Athens has increased significantly in the past three years (76.99 - High), but Athens is safe with the right travel safety measures. Moderate concerns exist about home break-ins (57.39), muggings or robberies (53.79), car theft (47.49), and items stolen from cars (59.32)

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    Generally speaking, Athens is safe to visit. Petty crime such as bag snatching or pickpocketing isn't unheard of, but that's to be expected in any major city or tourist destination. You don't need to be on high alert and always look over your shoulder, but if you practise common sense, you'll have no problems when you're out exploring.

  6. Is Athens Safe for Travel? Athens Travel & Safety Guide (May 2023)

    Overall, Athens is a safe city for travelers, as long as you take the necessary precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, stay aware of your surroundings, be respectful of local customs, and do your research beforehand. By doing so, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this incredible city.

  7. Is Athens Safe For Tourists? 2024 Athens Safety Guide

    The city of Athens in Greece is considered to be a very safe place. The crime rate is extremely low, and you will feel safe as long as you follow common sense precautions. Overall, the vast majority of visitors enjoy their time in Athens without major safety concerns. Because I want my readers to have a hassle free time in Athens, there are ...

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

    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 ...

  9. Is Athens Safe to Visit? Ultimate Safety Guide (Greece)

    Is Athens safe to travel to in 2022? Photo by Joseph Richard Francis. 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.

  10. Is Athens safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

    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 ...

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

    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.

  12. Is Athens Safe 2024? Expert Tips (Read Before Travel)

    Athens, also known as the ancient Greek city cradle of democracy, continues to attract tourists from all over the world eager to visit Acropolis and the Parthenon. In a city that counts more than 3 million inhabitants, we can say that Athens is safe and a peaceful city to visit for those looking for a historical city break.

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

    10. Women need to be extra cautious because the world sucks. I love traveling solo in Greece, but I do have to be extra cautious as a solo female traveler anywhere in the world. Yes, sexual assault in Athens is low, but female travelers should still be cautious, especially in scenarios where alcohol is involved.

  14. Greece Travel Advisory

    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 () to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

  15. Athens Greece Travel Tips: What To Know Before You Go (2024)

    Switch your phone to flight mode when you don't need it. Athens is a good place to pick up a local sim card, which may be especially useful if you are spending longer in Greece. In the long run this will be cheaper. WiFi is everywhere - Whenever you sit down at a cafe or taverna, just ask for the WiFi code.

  16. Is Athens Safe To Visit?: A Local's Perspective

    The United States travel advice service has Greece in general very low down at Level One recommending visitors merely "Exercise Normal Precautions" and according to the website, Travel Safe, "Athens is considered a very safe city.".

  17. Athens Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    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.

  18. A first timer's guide to Athens

    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 ...

  19. Greece travel advice

    Warnings and insurance. Information on the UEFA Europa League game between AEK and Brighton in Athens on 30 November ('Safety and security' page). The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ...

  20. Is Athens Safe? Solo Traveling to Athens Greece

    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.

  21. Essential Travel Guide to Athens, Greece [2024]

    It is well connected with public transport, so it's easy to get there from anywhere in Athens. Many direct flights from abroad arrive in Athens. Once you're at the airport, you can take Metro Line 3, which connects the airport to the city center. Trains run every 30 minutes, 7 days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

  22. Is Athens Safe In 2024? Top 6x Things Travelers Should Know

    In general, Athens is a safe city for tourists to visit in 2024. The crime rates are relatively low compared to other European capitals. Make sure to use common sense and still be aware of your surroundings! There's a reason millions of people flock to the vibrant city of Athens, safety is just one of them!

  23. Athens Solo Travel Guide For First Timers: Tips + Map

    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.

  24. Greece travel guide: From Athens to the islands

    World Greece travel guide: Popular tourist destinations from Athens to the islands Greece remains a perennial tourism favorite for its beaches, Mediterranean villages, history, archeology and cuisine