Discover Athens: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

Experience ancient wonders without breaking the bank in Athens.

21 June 2023

Athens is a budget-friendly destination that offers a wealth of ancient history and culture, breathtaking views, and affordable culinary delights. Visitors on a limited budget can explore iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, wander through Plaka's charming cobblestone streets, and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank. With an abundance of low-cost accommodation options and public transportation, Athens is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Ancient Athens Delight

  • Visit the Acropolis stunning ancient temple complex
  • Explore the Parthenon iconic symbol of Greece
  • Check out the ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Take a stroll through charming streets of Plaka, a historic neighborhood
  • Enjoy a traditional Greek meal at Taverna tou Psirri, highly recommended for its moussaka and grilled octopus
  • For those on a budget, Hotel Rio Athens is a great choice, located in the heart of the city and close to all the major attractions.
Day 2

Athens by Neighborhoods

  • Discover the city on foot, starting with the trendy neighborhood of Kolonaki with its upscale shops and cafes
  • Walk around the historic district of Monastiraki, famous for its flea market and ancient ruins
  • Visit the alternative neighborhood of Exarchia, known for its street art and anarchist vibes
  • See the National Garden, a tranquil oasis in the middle of the bustling city
  • Have a delicious meal at Oineas, a cozy taverna serving traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist
  • For a budget-friendly hotel in Kolonaki, try the cozy and stylish Live in Athens, located just a few minutes away from Syntagma Square.
Day 3

Coastal Athens

  • Head to the charming seaside suburb of Piraeus for some relaxing beach time
  • Visit the port of Piraeus, one of the largest in Europe, and admire the towering ships
  • Take a boat ride to the nearby islands of Aegina, Hydra, or Poros for stunning views and crystal-clear waters
  • Enjoy a seaside lunch at Mikrolimano, a picturesque port with many seafood restaurants
  • Take in the breathtaking sunset from the majestic Cape Sounion and its ancient Temple of Poseidon
  • For those looking for a beach hotel experience on a budget, the cozy Piraeus Dream City Hotel has great reviews and is conveniently located close to the port.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Athens, Greece by plane is to fly into Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. It is the largest airport in Greece and is served by multiple airlines from around the world.

Car

The best way to get to Athens by car is to take the Egnatia Odos highway if you are coming from the north of Greece. From the south of Greece, take the A7 highway. There are also several toll stations along the highways.

Train

There is no direct train to Athens from outside Greece. However, you can take a train to Thessaloniki, and then take a connecting train to Athens. The journey takes about 5 hours and the main station in Athens is the Larissa railway station.

Boat

The best way to get to Athens by boat is to take a ferry from some of the Greek islands. The main ports in Athens are Piraeus and Rafina ports. Ferries travel regularly from popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Bus

The best way to get to Athens by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Europe. The main bus station in Athens is Kifissos Bus Terminal. There are also domestic buses that connect Athens with other parts of Greece.

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