A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Atlanta for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Atlanta?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Atlanta. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Athens offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Athens travel costs.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Atlanta travel costs.

Athens and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Atlanta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Atlanta. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Atlanta attracts visitors for its shopping. Athens is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atlanta and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Atlanta?

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Atlanta and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

Athens is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Atlanta?

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Atlanta More Beautiful?

Athens is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Athens offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Families?

Both Athens and Atlanta are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Couples?

Athens and Atlanta both nice destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Atlanta are great places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Is Athens or Atlanta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

Athens offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Athens or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Athens is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Athens?

How long in Athens or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Athens due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-4 days is enough time in Atlanta.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Atlanta. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Athens than Atlanta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Athens that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Atlanta if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Athens.

One day in Athens or Atlanta?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Atlanta. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Atlanta?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Atlanta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Atlanta?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Atlanta. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Atlanta, we can see that Atlanta is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Atlanta is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Atlanta would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atlanta than you might in Athens.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Atlanta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Atlanta?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Atlanta, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Atlanta?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Atlanta in the Summer?

Both Atlanta and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Atlanta for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Athens is around the same temperature as Atlanta in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Atlanta fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlanta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Atlanta during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 271 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Atlanta in the Autumn?

Both Atlanta and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Athens is around the same temperature as Atlanta. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Atlanta averages at about 66°F (19°C).

In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atlanta. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 222 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Atlanta. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Atlanta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Atlanta. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

In January, Athens is generally a little warmer than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Athens usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 164 hours of full sun in the winter.

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Atlanta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Atlanta. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Atlanta for the activities around the city.

Athens is cooler than Atlanta in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Atlanta fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 262 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Atlanta. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Athens