Best Ways to Explore Athens, Greece on a Budget

Athens, Greece
Athens, Greece. Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

While Athens, Greece, isn’t at the top of the most expensive cities in Europe, marveling at the ancient ruins, getting immersed in one of the most influential cultures in the history of humanity, and enjoying amazing food comes at a cost. Luckily, there are ways to explore Athens on a budget without missing out on any of this. Check them out below.

Visit During Winter

The weather in Athens can still be pleasant during winter and it is definitely the best time of the year to visit for budget travelers. You’ll not only benefit from cheaper flights and accommodation but will also spend less on access to the city’s biggest tourist attractions. The majority of the archaeological and historical sites as well as monuments and museums offer free admission every Sunday from November to March and reduced ticket prices for the rest of the week.

Walk Everywhere

Athens can be easily explored on foot, reducing the need for using taxis and public transportation. Most points of interest are within walking distance of each other, while the city’s infrastructure is pedestrian-friendly.

Eat Where Locals Eat

You can save a lot of money by skipping overpriced restaurants and eating where locals eat. These include tavernas and mageirias, which are small eateries that serve local food, and gyro joints, where you can enjoy the most popular Greek street food creation.

Take Advantage of Free Drinkable Water

You won’t need to pay for water in Athens. The city has drinkable and high-quality tap water, meaning that you should only bring a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated. Additionally, all restaurants and bars will happily provide free water upon request.