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

Should you visit Athens or Warsaw?

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 Warsaw. 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. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a diverse, cultural, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Warsaw: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Warsaw?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Athens than Warsaw. While Warsaw is larger than Athens, Athens has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Warsaw is more popular for its impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Warsaw and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Warsaw is well known for its historical position as a cultural and political center.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Warsaw?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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

Athens is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for Nightlife?

Athens is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Warsaw offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for its Old Town?

Athens is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Warsaw?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Warsaw both offer plenty of notable 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.

Warsaw is a great destination for shopping. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for Families?

Athens is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for Couples?

Athens and Warsaw both notable 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.

Warsaw is a nice destination for couples. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Athens or Warsaw Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Warsaw are very good places to visit.

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

Warsaw is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Athens and Warsaw both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit in Warsaw is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

Is Athens or Warsaw a more walkable city?

Athens is a great city for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Warsaw or Athens?

How long in Athens or Warsaw?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Warsaw. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Warsaw. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Warsaw.

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

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Warsaw?

Athens 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.

Warsaw 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 Warsaw?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Warsaw. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Warsaw?

Athens is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Warsaw. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Sightseeing Tours in Poland, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Warsaw, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Warsaw?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Warsaw, 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 Warsaw?

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 Warsaw in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Warsaw. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Warsaw averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Warsaw. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Warsaw during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 353 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Warsaw. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Warsaw in the Autumn?

Both Warsaw and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Warsaw. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Warsaw fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Warsaw. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 135 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in October than Warsaw. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Warsaw in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Warsaw. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Warsaw for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Warsaw. Athens is much warmer than Warsaw in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Warsaw fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Warsaw during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Warsaw receives 35 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives more rain than Warsaw. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Warsaw in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Warsaw. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Warsaw in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is much warmer than Warsaw. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Warsaw averages at about 9°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets less sunshine than Warsaw. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Warsaw receives 247 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Warsaw. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Warsaw receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Warsaw and Athens