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Wondering how to visit the Greek capital without a lot of money? I will teach you everything you need to know about traveling to Athens on a budget!
As an expert traveler and someone who has visited the Greek capital for five years in a row, I can help!
So, if you are trying to save money for a trip to Greece, and don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, I am going to tell you exactly how to budget for a trip to Athens! Not only will I provide you with a free travel budget calculator, but I will also include all the money-saving hacks for Athens.
Where to Stay in Athens on a Budget
Often times the accommodations are your largest expense when planning a trip. When I start to plan a trip and need to stay within a budget I always first find affordable accommodations.
Booking well in advance is the best way to get the lowest price.
When visiting Athens I found that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort and convenience for cost savings. You can find many nice neighborhoods in the center of Athens with cheap hotels.
Districts such as Koukaki, Exarcheia, and Psiri offer plenty of affordable accommodations that promise an authentic Greek experience.
Koukaki, my personal favorite, is located close to the Acropolis and the National Museum of Contemporary Art. You will find the neighborhood boasts affordable hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.
For a bohemian vibe, consider staying in Exarcheia, known for its edgy art scene and budget-friendly eateries.
Then there is Psiri. Psiri is a former industrial district turned trendy hub, that offers inexpensive accommodations amidst bustling food and nightlife scenes.
When choosing your stay, remember, the proximity to metro stations can save on transportation costs and make sightseeing a breeze.
These areas offer not just a place to rest your head, but a dive into the local culture and lifestyle, which is priceless.
Budget-Friendly Athens Hotels
There are a number of hotels, not hostels that are very affordable in Athens. If you are hostels are ok with you, then you have even more budget-friendly options.
Best Affordable Hotels Koukaki Neighborhood
The following hotels have great deals in the Koukaki neighborhood. Prices for all these hotels go down dramatically from November till April.
I think visiting Athens in November is one of the best times to visit Athens. Click here to find the best deals on hotels in Koukaki.
Pro Tip: Find hotels that have a Free Breakfast included with the price.
Best Affordable Hotels in Exarcheia
Click here to find all the cheapest hotels in Exarcheia.
Best Affordable Hotels in Psiri
Click here for a list of the most affordable hotels in Psiri
Athens Cheap Eats
Looking for great food that won’t break your budget? One of the things I love about the capital city of Athens is the affordable authentic Greek food!
Greek street food offers a delicious and economical way to taste local cuisine. Here are some of the most popular Greek street food items you can try in Athens:
- Gyros Pita: A pita bread wrap filled with either pork or chicken, tomatoes, onions, tzatziki sauce, and sometimes fries. Try Gyristroula
- Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of pork, chicken, or sometimes lamb, often served with pita bread, tzatziki, and a side of salad. Try Kostas
- Spanakopita: A savory pie made of phyllo pastry and filled with spinach and feta cheese. Try Ariston
- Tyropita: Similar to Spanakopita but filled with cheese instead of spinach. Try Μάμ
- Bougatsa: A sweet or savory pastry made with phyllo dough and fillings like cheese, meat, or custard. Try Bougatsadiko Psirri
- Loukoumades: Small, fried dough balls drizzled with honey syrup and often sprinkled with cinnamon or chopped nuts. Try LUKUMAΔΕΣ
- Falafel: Although originally from the Middle East, falafel has become a common street food item in Athens. These deep-fried chickpea balls are typically served in a pita wrap with veggies and sauces. Try Not Just Falafel
- Saganaki: A pan-seared cheese dish, usually served with a squeeze of lemon juice. Try Karamanlidika
- Dolmades: Stuffed grape leaves typically filled with rice, herbs, and occasionally ground meat. Try Alexander The Great
- Frappe: Not a food but a popular Greek iced coffee drink, perfect for the hot Athenian summer. Try Taf Coffee
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Budget-Friendly Ways to Get Around in Athens
The cheapest way to get around Athens if you are trying to stay on a budget is by using public transit!
There is so much of Athens that can be seen on foot, but for some attractions such as Lybecuatus Hill, you might want to take public transport.
Metro Line
The Athens Metro is a rapid transit system that consists of three lines, serving 61 stations in total.
It is often the quickest way to get around the city. The lines are denoted by different colors:
- Line 1 (Green): Piraeus – Kifisia
- Line 2 (Red): Anthoupoli – Elliniko
- Line 3 (Blue): Nikaia – Douk. Plakentias – Airport
Several important sites, including the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki, have their own metro stations, making the system convenient for tourists.
I have had a very positive experience using public transport in the heart of the city. I feel confident to say the trains are clean and safe for solo travelers in Athens.
Buses and Trolleys
Athens has a network of buses and electric trolleys that serve the city and its suburbs. While buses are typically slower than the metro due to traffic, they can reach areas not covered by the metro.
‼️ Note that buses don’t operate 24/7, but there are certain night bus lines.
Tram
The Athens Tram connects the city center with the southern seaside. It has three lines that can take you to coastal areas where you can enjoy Athens’ beaches.
Suburban Railway Proastiakos
This is a convenient option if you’re looking to travel to the outskirts of Athens or to nearby cities.
The line that connects to the Athens International Airport is particularly useful for travelers.
Tickets
Public transportation in Athens uses a unified ticket system, meaning the same tickets can be used across the metro, buses, trolleys, and tram.
Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines found at metro stations and major bus stops, or at kiosks throughout the city.
A 90-minute ticket costs €1.20, a 24-hour ticket costs €4.10, and a 5-day ticket costs €8.20.
Be sure to validate your ticket at the start of your journey.
Athens Transport Apps
There are several mobile apps, like OASA Telematics or Moovit, which provide real-time updates on public transport in Athens, including routes, timetables, and ticket information.
Remember, public transport in Athens can get busy, particularly during rush hour, so allow extra time for your journeys.
Also, keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur.
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Things To Do In Athens On A Budget
While it’s certainly possible to spend a fortune experiencing all the main attractions that Athens has to offer, there’s also an abundance of affordable and even free activities for the budget-conscious traveler.
Explore the Acropolis
Opening hours: April 1st to October 31st: 8 AM – 7 PM / November 1st through March 31st: 8 AM – 5 PM
The Acropolis has an entry fee, but it’s one of those must-see sights in Athens you shouldn’t miss.
For the best value, consider purchasing a combined ticket that includes access to other archaeological sites in the city.
Remember to check for discounted or free entry days!
Acropolis Free Entry Days
- 6 March (Memory of Melina Mercouri)
- 18 April (International Monument Day)
- 18 May (International Museum Day)
- The last weekend of September (European Days of Cultural Heritage)
- October 28th
- Every first Sunday of the month, from November 1st to March 31st annually
Wander Around Plaka
As one of the oldest districts in Athens, Plaka offers narrow streets filled with neoclassical buildings, artisan shops, and local tavernas.
Window shopping is free, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
Visit the National Gardens
Looking for a quiet day in the busy and bustling city of Athens? I bring a book and find a nice spot to read in The National Garden.
You will find it located behind the Greek Parliament, close to the city center.
The garden offers a lush green space ideal for relaxation or a leisurely stroll. The entrance is free.
Climb Lycabettus Hill
For an awe-inspiring panorama of Athens’s highest point, climb up Lycabettus Hill.
It’s a bit of a trek, but it’s the best view of the city, especially at sunset, which makes it worth the effort.
Visiting Lycabettus Hill on foot is free, but if you want to ride the cable car from Ploutarchou Street it will cost 10 Euros roundtrip or 7 Euros one way.
Visitor Information
📍 Address: Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki, Athens 114 71
⏰ Hours: The hill is open 24 hours. The cable car runs from 9:30 am to 2:30 am
Stroll Around Monastiraki Flea Market
Whether you’re looking for vintage clothing, rare vinyl, or antiques, or just want to experience the buzzing market atmosphere, Monastiraki Flea Market is the place to be.
Haggling is part of the fun, and even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a unique cultural experience.
This market is free and is open 7 days a week from 10 am to 10 pm.
Visit the Ancient Agora:
Opening hours: April 1st to October 31st: 8 AM – 7 PM / November 1st through March 31st: 8 AM – 5 PM
While there’s a fee to enter the Ancient Agora, it’s another must-visit archaeological site in Athens. This was the heart of ancient Athens, where political, commercial, administrative, and social activities all took place.
Enjoy the Changing of the Guards
Don’t miss the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
You will find the Changing of the Guard located in front of the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square. This ceremony happens every hour and is free to watch.
The Changing of the Guards: Every hour on the hour, 24 hours a day.
Experience Athens’ Street Art
Athens is known for its vibrant street art, which you can discover as one of the free things to do in neighborhoods such as Metaxourgeio and Psyrri.
These activities not only go easy on your pocket but also provide an authentic Athenian experience.
Hadrian’s Library
Opening hours: April 1st to October 31st: 8 AM – 7 PM / November 1st through March 31st: 8 AM – 5 PM
Hadrian’s Library, a notable archaeological site in Athens, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing the grandeur of Roman-era architecture and culture.
Its tranquil setting amid the bustling city offers a unique blend of past and present, making it an unforgettable part of your Athens experience.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Opening hours: April 1st to October 31st: 8 AM – 7 PM / November 1st through March 31st: 8 AM – 5 PM
The Temple of Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, offers visitors an awe-inspiring look at Ancient Greek history with its towering Corinthian columns, only 15 of which remain standing from the original 104.
This site reflects the grandeur of the Olympian god Zeus, set against a backdrop of Athens’ modern cityscape, providing visitors with a stark contrast between the ancient and contemporary worlds.
If you purchase the ticket to access all the historical sites you will be able to visit the temple.
Roman Agora
Opening hours: April 1st to October 31st: 8 AM – 7 PM / November 1st through March 31st: 8 AM – 5 PM
For any history buff a stop at The Roman Agora is a must! It is like taking a journey back in time, immersing oneself in the grandeur of ancient Rome.
The architectural splendor of the site, nestled in the heart of Athens, Greece, is a testament to the brilliance of Roman engineering and design.
You can either sneak a peak from the outside or use your Mususem and Archeological site ticket to walk amongst the well-preserved columns and structures.
Highlights include the Gate of Athena Archegetis and the Tower of the Winds, a structure renowned for its weather-predicting capabilities.
Exploring the Roman Agora offers a unique insight into the lifestyle, trade, and culture of a bygone era, reminding us of the timelessness of human history and our interconnected past.
Athens Combo Ticket Savings Benefits
Athens Acropolis + 6 Archeological Sites Combo Ticket
Experience the best of Athens by skipping long ticket booth queues and gaining direct access to iconic sites such as the Acropolis and the Roman Agora, as well as Aristotle’s School and the Keramikos Ancient Cemetery.
The Combo Ticket for Athens’ archaeological sites can be purchased at the office for €30 or online via Get Your Guide for €36 with skip-the-line access.
During the summer season, which runs from April 1st to October 31st, purchasing tickets individually for each archaeological site amounts to €64 (20 + 10 + 8 + 6 + 8 + 8 + 4).
In contrast, during the winter season (November 1st through March 31st), individual ticket prices for each site total €32 (10 + 5 + 4 + 3 + 4 + 4 + 2).
As clearly evidenced, the summer season offers significant savings when you opt for the combined ticket, with potential savings of up to €34 if you plan to visit all included sites. Therefore, investing in the combo ticket during the summer season is certainly a wise decision.
On the other hand, the savings during the winter season are minimal, just €2, when you choose the combined ticket.
Thus, if you are visiting Athens during winter and don’t intend to explore all the archaeological sites included in the combo ticket, it might not be the most cost-effective option for you.
Affordable & Free Walking Tours of Athens
- Best Free Walking Tour
- Guided Tour of Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
- Athens Street Food Tour
- Acropolis and Mythology Highlights
Best Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Athens
#1. Plan in Advance
Planning your trip well in advance can save you a lot on airfares and accommodation prices.
This is particularly true if you’re traveling during the peak tourist season (June to August).
Consider visiting in the off-peak or shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for even greater savings.
📒 Looking for a Travel Planner? I use this one to keep track of my budget!
#2. Use Public Transportation
Athens has an excellent public transportation system comprising of buses, trams, and a metro system. These are much cheaper than taxis and often quite efficient.
A weekly transportation ticket is even more economical if you plan to travel frequently within the city.
#3. Free Walking Tours
There are free walking tours offered by various groups in Athens. These are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture without spending much.
🚶♀️ Free Walking Tour of Athens: Check Availability
#4. Cook Your Own Meals
Accommodation with kitchen facilities can be a great money-saver. Ingredients are usually cheap at local markets, and cooking your own meals is significantly less expensive than dining out.
#5. Visit Free or Discounted Attractions
Many of Athens’s museums and archaeological sites have reduced entry fees on certain days or times. Some are even free.
For example, the National Archaeological Museum is free on the first Sunday of the month from November 1st through March 31st.
Also, visit open spaces like the National Gardens, Mount Lycabettus, and the vibrant neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, which are free to explore.
#6. Take Advantage of City Passes
If you plan to visit many museums and historic sites of the ancient city of Athens, consider purchasing a city pass.
These often include entry to multiple tourist attractions and can be more cost-effective than buying individual tickets.
Athens Acropolis + 6 Archeological Sites Combo Ticket
Experience the best of Athens by skipping long ticket booth queues and gaining direct access to iconic sites such as the Acropolis and the Roman Agora, as well as Aristotle’s School and the Keramikos Ancient Cemetery.
#7. Eat Local
Rather than dining at touristy restaurants, seek out the places where locals eat. These tend to be less expensive and often offer better food.
#8. Drink Tap Water
Tap water in Athens is safe to drink and will save you a lot compared to constantly buying bottled water.
I bring a collapsible water bottle with me everywhere I go.
#9. Shop at Local Markets
Athens is home to numerous local markets selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. Prices here are often lower than in shops targeting tourists.
#10. Stay in Budget Accommodations
I go over this in detail at the start of this post. Your hotel will determine a large portion of your budget.
Many of these options are quite affordable and offer excellent value for money.
#11. Travel Insurance
While it may seem like an unnecessary cost, travel insurance can actually save you a lot of money if you encounter unexpected situations like health issues or trip cancellations.
Remember, the key to traveling on a budget is planning ahead and making thoughtful choices about where your money goes.
With these tips, you should be able to enjoy Athens without breaking the bank.
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Budgeting for 3 Days in Athens
Because visiting Athens in the off-season and peak season vary so drastically I will break down what a 3-day budget looks like for each scenario.
Budget for Visiting Athens in the High Season
What is the high season in Athens? Visiting Greece in June, July, and August is considered the high season.
Having visited Athens in the high and low seasons, I wanted to provide a breakdown of what you can expect to spend in the peak season and off-peak season.
Below is my rough guide to a daily budget for a 3-day stay in Athens during peak season.
Please note that these costs can vary greatly depending on personal preferences and the current exchange rates.
1. Accommodation:
- Budget Hotel/Hostel: €30 – €50 per night. A 3-day stay will cost between €90 and €150.
2. Food:
- Breakfast: Many hostels and hotels include breakfast. If not, expect to pay around €5 for something simple like coffee and pastries.
- Lunch: A gyro or souvlaki in a local taverna can cost around €2-€4. Add a Greek salad for about €6.
- Dinner: A meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost around €15-€20.
- Thus, expect to spend about €25 – €35 per day on food. Over 3 days, this totals €75 – €105.
3. Inner City Transit:
- A 5-day public transit ticket costs €9 and covers the Metro, tram, and buses within Athens.
4. Day Activities:
- A combined ticket for the Acropolis and other major archaeological sites is €30. Many of the other attractions (like the changing of the guard, the National Gardens, and strolling in Plaka) are free.
- If you wish to visit a museum like the National Archaeological Museum, the standard admission fee is €10.
- Over 3 days, you might spend between €30 and €50 on attractions.
Daily Budget Total:
- Low-end average cost estimate: (Accommodation €30 + Food €25 + Transit €3 + Activities €10) x 3 days = €204
- High-end estimate: (Accommodation €50 + Food €35 + Transit €3 + Activities €16.67) x 3 days = €315
This budget does not include flights, travel insurance, or extra spending money.
Also, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate and these are just estimates.
Always check for the most up-to-date information before planning your travel budget.
Budget for Visiting Athens in Off Season
If you can find a cheap flight to Athens, visiting in the off-season is the real win!
I found incredibly cool furnished apartments for under 50 euros per day in November. This same apartment in the summer season would be over 100 euros per night.
And if you can time it right, as I did, you can visit the Acropolis and other archeological sites for free!
Visiting Athens in the winter months is also ideal for site seeing. Athens in the high season is not only more expensive it is HOT! So hot that oftentimes the Acropolis is shut down.
The best part about visiting Athens in the off-season is being able to explore the city without risking heat stroke. The city is also far less crowded with people.
I really try to stick to the off-season when visiting any popular travel destination. I think it is the best time to travel
1. Accommodation:
- Budget Hotel/Hostel: €20 – €40 per night. A 3-day stay will cost between €60 and €120.
2. Food:
- Breakfast: Many hostels and hotels include breakfast. If not, expect to pay around €5 for something simple like coffee and pastries.
- Lunch: A gyro or souvlaki in a local taverna can cost around €2-€4. Add a Greek salad for about €6.
- Dinner: A meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost around €10-€15.
- Thus, expect to spend about €20 – €30 per day on food. Over 3 days, this totals €60 – €90.
3. Inner City Transit:
- A 5-day public transit ticket costs €9 and covers the Metro, tram, and buses within Athens.
4. Day Activities:
- A combined ticket for the Acropolis and other major archaeological sites is €30. Many of the other attractions (like the changing of the guard, the National Gardens, and strolling in Plaka) are free.
- If you wish to visit a museum like the National Archaeological Museum, the standard admission fee is €5-€10.
- Over 3 days, you might spend between €30 and €50 on attractions.
Daily Budget Total:
- Low-end estimate: (Accommodation €20 + Food €20 + Transit €3 + Activities €10) x 3 days = €159
- High-end estimate: (Accommodation €40 + Food €30 + Transit €3 + Activities €16.67) x 3 days = €269.01
Free Budget Calculator for Travel Expenses
What to start planning your trip? Play around with this budget calculator for all your travel expenses.
Travel Budget Calculator
Total Budget: 0 $
Read my more in-depth guide on how to use a budget calculator for travel expenses.
Final Thoughts On How to Visit Athens on a Budget
Overall Athens is one of the easiest places to visit when you are on a budget. Greece doesn’t have to be that expensive! There are even cheap Greek Islands to visit!
Unless you are planning to visit Mykonos, which is expensive!
Implementing all my helpful tips and advice for planning is sure to help you stay on track and not overspend.
Interested in relocating to Athens? Athens is not only a great place to visit if you are on a tight budget, but it is also a great place to live!
Having just relocated to Athens myself, I am open to answering any questions you might have to make your trip to Athens, a permanent one!
FAQs About Visiting Athens On A Budget
You can climb the Lycabettus for free, but if you want to take the cable car it will cost you 10 euros round trip.
Yes! Athens is one of the most budget European cities! You can easily see many of the main attractions for under 30 euros! If you visit Athens in the off-season you will have even more opportunity to save money on things like accommodations and tourist attractions.
Yes! The Acropolis is worth seeing for the price of the ticket. There are deals where you can buy a combo ticket and see all the main sites in Athens for 30 euros!
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