Which place is cheaper, Washington or Athens?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Washington. 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 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.
Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.
Visitors will generally find more to do in Washington than Athens. While Athens is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Washington is better known for its theatre productions, music, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Athens is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Washington 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 Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.
Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Athens is not a theatre destination.
Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.
Athens is not a theatre destination.
Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Washington 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, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.
Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.
Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.
Washington is a good destination for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.
You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.
Athens is not a live music destination.
Athens is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington 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.
Washington does not have a historic old town.
Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.
Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.
Athens is not a hiking destination.
Washington is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.
Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.
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.
Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Athens does not offer Christmas activities.
With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.
Athens does not offer Christmas activities.
Both Athens and Washington are high quality 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.
Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.
Washington is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.
Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.
Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.
Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.
Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.
Washington is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.
Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.
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.
Washington 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 Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.
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.
Washington is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.
Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.
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.
For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.
Both Athens and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Washington than Athens. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Washington than Athens. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Washington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Washington than Athens. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Washington that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the big city destination of Washington. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.
Washington 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.
Athens, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. 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.
Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Washington. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is $138, while the average daily cost in Washington is $198. 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 Washington in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Athens or Washington? 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.
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.
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:
Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:
Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Washington 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:
For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:
For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.
Athens has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Washington, 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.
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.
Both Washington and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Athens is around the same temperature as Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).
It's quite sunny in Washington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Washington during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Washington. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Washington and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).
It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Washington. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.
Athens usually gets less rain in October than Washington. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Washington. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
The weather in Washington can be very cold. Athens is much warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).
Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Washington during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Washington. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Washington. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.
In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Washington. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.
Athens usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Athens | Washington | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 10°C (51°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 35°F (1°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) |
Feb | 11°C (51°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 37°F (3°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) |
Mar | 12°C (54°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 47°F (8°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Apr | 16°C (60°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 56°F (14°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) |
May | 20°C (68°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | 66°F (19°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
Jun | 24°C (76°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 75°F (24°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Jul | 27°C (81°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 79°F (26°C) | 3.5 inches (88 mm) |
Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) | 78°F (26°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) |
Sep | 24°C (76°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 71°F (22°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
Oct | 19°C (67°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 60°F (15°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) |
Nov | 16°C (60°F) | 51 mm (2 in) | 50°F (10°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Dec | 12°C (54°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) | 39°F (4°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |