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

Should you visit Athens or Paris?

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 Paris. 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Athens is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Athens travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Paris because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Paris travel costs.

Athens and Paris: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower


Is there more to do in Athens or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Athens. Paris is bigger than Athens, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its theatre productions, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Athens is more popular for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Athens and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Athens different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens
Paris

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Paris 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 Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.


Is Athens or Paris Better for Theater?

Athens
Paris

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Athens is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Athens is not a theatre destination.

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

Athens
Paris

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Paris 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, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Athens or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Paris

The vibe at night is amazing in both Athens and Paris.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.


Is Athens or Paris Better for Music?

Athens
Paris

Paris is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Athens is not a live music destination.

Is Athens or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Paris

Athens is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Paris?

Athens
Paris

Paris 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 Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris More Beautiful?

Athens
Paris

Paris is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Paris because of it's amazing beauty. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Athens is a gorgeous place to visit. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.

Is Athens or Paris Better for Families?

Athens
Paris

Paris is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Is Athens or Paris Better for Couples?

Athens
Paris

Paris is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Paris

For backpackers, both Athens and Paris are amazing places to visit.

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.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Athens or Paris Better for Students?

Athens
Paris

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

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad 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 Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens
Paris

Paris 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 Paris can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Athens
Paris

Athens and Paris are superb 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.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Athens?

How long in Athens or Paris?

Both Athens and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Paris than Athens. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Athens 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 Paris.


  • How many days in Athens or Paris? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Paris 3-7

One day in Athens or Paris?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Athens or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Athens or Paris?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. 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 Paris?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the energetic big city of Paris. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Paris or Athens?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €154, while the average daily cost in Paris is €265. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Athens and Paris in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Paris 153
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Paris 306
Compare Hotels in Athens and Paris

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Paris? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Athens


Hotels in Paris


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Paris 21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to/from Volos: $575
  • Private Transfer From Athens To Meteora - Kalabaka: $290
  • Private Transfer through Athens Attractions at Night: $290
  • Combo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket and Airport Transfer: $290
  • Athens Transfers: $290
  • Athens city Tour (4hrs) combined with Marine of Alimos transfers: $278
  • Private Transfer from Athens to Costa Navarino with 2h Stop: $275
  • "Quick Athens Highlights Tour: Airport or Cruise ship Transfers": $268
  • Private Transfer from Athens Airport To Costa Navarino Hotel: $267
  • Athens Airport Transfer From/To Nafplio: $255
  • Private Transfer between Athens Airport and Piraeus Port: $255
  • ATHENS HOTEL transfer to/from Piraeus Cruise Port (up to 14 pax): $255

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Paris to Airport: CDG, Orly, Beauvais: $297
  • Private Transfer from CDG Airport to Paris: $290
  • Private Transfer from Paris to CDG Airport: $290
  • Private Disneyland Return Transfer Up to 6 People: $290
  • Louvre Museum Paris Private Tour with Tickets and Transfers: $289
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $284
  • Private Mercedes luxury transfer from PARIS to => DISNEYLAND Paris with Cab-Bel-Air: $284
  • Panthéon Paris Private Guided Tour with Transfers: $283
  • Paris Two way Private return Transfers to Disneyland: $277
  • Private transfer to Reims or Epernay : one way OR 8 hours tour: $276
  • Private Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Reims / Champagne by Van: $275
  • Transfer by luxury Mercedes from PARIS AIRPORT to => PARIS with Cab-Bel-Air: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Paris?

Prices for flights to both Paris and Athens change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Athens 64
    Paris 72
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Athens Food Tour (5+ Stops) - Full Meal Included by Do Eat Better: $64
  • Ancient Roman and Greek Dinner With Ancient Wine Styles: $65
  • Athens Food Tour and Local Tastings: $73
  • Athens's original vegan food tour: $75
  • Athens Traditional Food Tour: $79
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Taste the best street food: $79
  • Athens, Greek food tour including market visit: $80
  • Cooking Class & Dinner at a Roof Garden in Athens: $80
  • Athens at Night Enchanting Walking Tour and Dinner Delights: $81
  • Small Group Greek Traditional Food Tour in Athens 20+ Tastings: $81
  • Taste of Athens Small-Group Food Tour: $81

Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Paris Marais Walking Food Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $12
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $66
  • Paris Seine River dinner cruise from Alexandre III bridge: $68
  • Paris Guided Food Tour by Bike - Ile de la Cité and Marais: $73
  • Seine River Cruise and Dinner at Traditional Parisian Restaurant: $74
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $75
  • Paris Vegan Street Food Tour: $75
  • Paris Food Tour: $80
  • Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien: $82
  • Paris Theo Boat Seine River Italian Trattoria Style Dinner Cruise: $83
  • Paris Food Tour: Eat Like a Local with Cheeses, Wines & Secrets: $87
  • Notre Dame and Latin Quarter Food Tour with 10 Authentic Tastings: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Paris 76

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • ''Full-Day Tour of Delphi-Byzantine Monastery of Hosios Loukas'': $299
  • "A Must-See" Anc. Epidaurus, Mycenae & Nafplion Premium Full Day Tour By Locals: $209
  • "All Day Tour Athens & Corinth:Highlights & Path of Apostle Paul": $299
  • "All day tour of Athens-8h:Exploring its most popular landmarks": $252
  • "Athens Highlights Tour : Acropolis, Acropolis Museum and more.": $173
  • "Athens Night Experience - 4Hours": $165
  • "Athens in a Day: A Full-Day Tour of the City’s Top Highlights": $252
  • "Athens in a Glimpse with Cruise Port Pickup & Drop-Off": $173
  • "Delphi Full-Day Tour: Ancient Oracle and the Heart of the Earth": $299
  • "Full-Day Tour of Delphi and Picturesque Livadia": $299
  • "Olive Oil Tasting Experience & Tour in Corinth": $197
  • "Tour of Ancient Corinth:Follow in the footsteps of Apostle Paul": $197

Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • Île de la Cité Guided Tour & Audio-Guided Visit of Notre-Dame: $23
  • Île de la Cité Guided Tour & Exterior Notre Dame: $45
  • Île de la Cité Private 2h Tour with Latin Quarter & Seine River: $195
  • Île de la Cité, the Old Town of Paris Private Guided Tour: $211
  • 1 Hour Express Paris Tour with Scenic Stops: $173
  • 1 Hour Paris Illuminated Evening Sightseeing Cruise: $33
  • 1 Hour Private Photo Session experience with the Eiffel Tower: $220
  • 1-Hour Private Tour in Paris, Harley Davidson Sidecar: $184
  • 1-Hour Seine River Cruise Ticket from Eiffel Tower: $20
  • 1.5-hour cruise on the Seine departing at 6:30 PM: $21
  • 1st Day in Paris Discovery Private Tour: 'How-to' Orientation & Sightseeing Fun!: $80
  • 2 Hour Walking Tour Through Treasures of the Marais: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Paris 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Polykala Distillery: 128 years of history & liqueur tasting.: $16
  • Athens Party Pub Crawl w/ 1-hour Open Bar & VIP Nightclub Access: $17
  • Athens Rooftop Pub Crawl Acropolis Views and Nightclub Fun: $17
  • The NightCrawlers | Athens Bar Hopping | Pub Crawl: $22
  • Athens Olive Oil and Herbs Tasting at Athens Oldest Distillery: $23
  • Experience Ouzo Tasting at Athens Oldest Distillery: $28
  • Athens Exclusive Hellenic Wine Tasting Experience at Brettos: $37
  • Organic and Vegan Indigenous Wine Tasting Private Experience: $46
  • Athens Small Group Wine Tasting with a Sommelier: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $57
  • Acropolis Private Wine Tasting @ Finewine store: $65
  • Noble Greeks Acropolis Wine Tasting with Private Sommelier: $70

Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Paris City Center Guided Pub Crawl With Shots & Club Entry: $19
  • The Original Pub Crawl + Free Shots + VIP Club Entry: $23
  • Pub Crawl Experience in Bars with Club Entry: $29
  • Paris Montmartre Cheese Charcuterie Wine Tasting with Audio Tour: $29
  • Paris International Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Fun Games: $29
  • Paris Guided Pub Crawl with Bars Shots and Club Entry: $31
  • Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $35
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $41
  • Guided Tour of Montmartre with Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $52
  • Paris Wine Tasting & French Cheese Pairing with Sommelier: $79
  • Cheese & Wine Tasting in Montmartre with a Local Cheesemonger: $80


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Paris. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Paris during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Paris. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Paris 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Athens or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Paris. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Paris. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Paris 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Athens or Paris in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Paris. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Athens is much warmer than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Paris during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Paris. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Paris 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Athens or Paris in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Paris. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Paris. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Paris 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Paris and Athens

Athens Paris
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)