Athens

Sunny, vibrant, and deeply rooted in history, Athens captivates with its contrast between old winding streets, lively squares, and the modern energy of a bustling metropolis. From the Acropolis and its impressive museums to neighborhoods filled with cafés, tavernas, and local boutiques, the Greek capital offers an authentic blend of culture, Mediterranean charm, and a relaxed urban rhythm. Whether you’re looking for a day of exploring iconic landmarks or long evenings on scenic terraces, Athens always has something delightful to offer.

Attractions and activities

Athens is a city where history, gastronomy, and Mediterranean atmosphere are felt everywhere you go. From impressive ancient sites to modern neighborhoods filled with cafés and street art, the Greek capital offers experiences for every type of traveler.

  • Acropolis & Parthenon – The most iconic symbol of Athens, offering stunning views over the city.
  • Acropolis Museum – One of Europe’s most acclaimed museums, modern, beautifully curated, and highly immersive.
  • Plaka – A picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and local shops.
  • Monastiraki – A popular area known for its bazaars, souvenirs, street food, and lively atmosphere.
  • Anafiotika – A charming, island-style corner with whitewashed houses, hidden right beneath the Acropolis.
  • Syntagma & the Changing of the Guard – The city’s central square, where you can watch the traditional ceremony.
  • Temples of the Ancient Agora – A perfect spot to explore the city’s history in a peaceful, open-air setting.
  • Psiri District – Vibrant and creative, filled with modern eateries, bars, art galleries, and colorful murals.
  • Lycabettus Hill – The highest point in Athens, ideal for spectacular sunsets.
  • The Athens Riviera – The coastal areas of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Alimos, perfect for beaches, seaside walks, and relaxing evenings by the water.

Local events and festivals

Athens has a rich cultural calendar, filled with events that bring together Greek tradition, music, gastronomy, and contemporary art. From historical festivals to open-air shows and summer celebrations, the city offers countless experiences for visitors.

  • Athens & Epidaurus Festival – One of Greece’s most important festivals, held in summer and featuring theatre, opera, and dance performances, many of them hosted in the ancient Herodes Atticus Theatre.
  • Athens Carnival (Apokries) – The festive period before Easter Lent, celebrated with parades, costumes, street parties, and a joyful atmosphere.
  • European Museum Night – A special event during which Athens museums stay open late and host special exhibitions, tours, and cultural activities.
  • Athens Marathon – An iconic race following the historic route of Pheidippides, attracting runners from around the world.
  • Athens International Film Festival – An event that brings premieres, special screenings, and filmmaker encounters to iconic cinemas and cultural venues across the city.
  • Neighborhood summer festivals – From open-air concerts in Plaka or Psiri to food events and evenings dedicated to street art, Athens comes alive with activity throughout the warm months.
  • Christmas fairs and events – Festive markets, lights, and concerts in Syntagma, Zappeion, and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, where the city takes on a warm and lively December atmosphere.

How to get from the airport to your accommodation

Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH) is the city’s main airport, located about 20 km from downtown Athens. You have several well-connected transport options, so you can choose the one that suits you best:

  • Metro (Line 3 – Blue Line) – A direct connection between the airport and central Athens (Syntagma, Monastiraki). The ride takes about 40 minutes.
  • Express buses (X93, X95, X96, X97) – An affordable option with routes to key areas of the city and to the port of Piraeus (X96).
  • Taxis – Available right outside the terminal, with a fixed fare to the city center (day/night rates apply).
  • Ridesharing – Services like Beat are popular and can be booked quickly through the app.
  • Private transfer – Comfortable and efficient, especially for families or groups with luggage.
  • Car rental – All major rental companies operate at the airport; useful if you plan to explore the metropolitan area or the Athens Riviera.

Travel with AnimaWings

AnimaWings offers you direct, comfortable, and affordable flights to Athens, one of the most vibrant cities in Southern Europe. Whether you’re traveling for history, gastronomy, the beaches of the Athens Riviera, or simply for the relaxed atmosphere, we bring you closer to everything that makes the Greek capital so special.

Book your flights to Athens now

Discover lively neighborhoods, impressive ancient sites, and Mediterranean evenings with city views. Choose the comfort and efficiency of AnimaWings for a pleasant, worry-free journey!