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

Should you visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

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 Kuala Lumpur. 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 ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, welcoming, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Athens than Kuala Lumpur. While Kuala Lumpur is larger than Athens, Athens has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Athens is better known for its nightlife and historical sights, while Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Kuala Lumpur is well known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur?

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur that are not to be missed. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Kuala Lumpur can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur Better for its Old Town?

Athens is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Athens is revered around the world. 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.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

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 Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

Both Athens and Kuala Lumpur are excellent 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly place to visit. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

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

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit in Athens is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Is Athens or Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

Athens and Kuala Lumpur are excellent when it comes to 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.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Should I spend more time in Kuala Lumpur or Athens?

How long in Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Athens or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than Kuala Lumpur because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Kuala Lumpur. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Athens is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Kuala Lumpur is bigger, and its population is about 99% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the population of Athens vs. Kuala Lumpur, 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 and the activities that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur?

Athens has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Kuala Lumpur. The summer months attract visitors to Athens because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the summer, Athens is around the same temperature as Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kuala Lumpur this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 200 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Kuala Lumpur. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Athens this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year.

In October, Athens is generally cooler than Kuala Lumpur. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur in the Winter?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Athens is much colder than Kuala Lumpur in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Kuala Lumpur fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Athens usually receives less sunshine than Kuala Lumpur during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Kuala Lumpur receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Kuala Lumpur in the Spring?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round.

In the spring, Athens is much colder than Kuala Lumpur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Kuala Lumpur averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kuala Lumpur receives 199 hours of full sun.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Kuala Lumpur. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kuala Lumpur receives 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kuala Lumpur and Athens