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

Should you visit Athens or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 historic, ancient, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Seattle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Seattle than Athens. While Athens is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, and hiking, while Athens attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Athens different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Athens on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Athens is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Athens is not a theatre destination.

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

Athens is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is great for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Athens is not a live music destination.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a good destination for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Athens is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Seattle?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Seattle both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Seattle is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Families?

Athens is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Couples?

Athens and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Athens or Seattle Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Athens is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Athens or Seattle a more walkable city?

Athens and Seattle are great 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Athens?

How long in Athens or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Seattle. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Seattle. 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

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 museums and theater when visiting the outdoorsy big city of Seattle. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Seattle?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Athens is a little warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Seattle. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Seattle. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Athens is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Seattle. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Seattle. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In January, Athens is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Athens usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Athens is much warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Seattle. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Athens