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

Should you visit Athens or Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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 vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Athens or Windsor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Windsor are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


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

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Athens or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Athens or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Windsor?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Athens offers some nice shopping areas. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Athens or Windsor Better for Families?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Athens or Windsor Better for Couples?

Athens
Windsor

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

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Athens or Windsor Better for Students?

Athens
Windsor

Athens is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Athens
Windsor

Athens is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Athens or Windsor a more walkable city?

Athens
Windsor

Athens and Windsor 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.

Windsor is very walkable. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Athens?

How long in Athens or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Windsor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Windsor.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 Windsor 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.


  • How many days in Athens or Windsor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Windsor 1-2

One day in Athens or Windsor?

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.

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor or Athens?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Windsor is €175. 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 Windsor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Windsor 82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Windsor 164
Compare Hotels in Athens and Windsor

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Windsor? 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 Windsor


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Athens Hotel Prices and Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Windsor 77
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:

  • Athens to Piraeus (Athens) Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Private Athens International Airport to Piraeus Port Transfer: $80
  • "Luxurious Transfer": $47
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER in Athens : $28
  • Airport Private Transfers: $79
  • Airport Transfer: $109
  • Airport Transfer/ Athens Greece: $28
  • Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Business Car: $80
  • Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Luxury Car: $126
  • Airport Transfer: Athens to Athens Airport ATH by Luxury Van: $113
  • Airport transfer: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Athens Airport ATH to Athens City by Minibus: $109

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Windsor?

Prices for flights to both Windsor 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 37
    Windsor 46
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 Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $52
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $67

Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    2.92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Windsor 31

Tours and Activities in Athens

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

  • Meouzo Online City Tour: $3.20
  • Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.21
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.60
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $6.53
  • Ancient Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Ancient Agora of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Greece: Tourist eSIM Data Plan: $7.18
  • Ancient Agora: Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Windsor 8.82

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

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

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $35
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $44
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Rare Greek Wine Tasting w/Sommelier by the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60


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


Which is Bigger, Athens or Windsor?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Windsor, 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Windsor. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally much warmer than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 195 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Windsor. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Windsor 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Athens or Windsor in the Autumn?

Both Windsor and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is much warmer than Windsor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Windsor fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Windsor. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Windsor 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Athens or Windsor in the Winter?

Both Windsor and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Windsor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Windsor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Windsor averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 52 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Windsor. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Windsor 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Athens or Windsor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Windsor. 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 Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally much warmer than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Windsor. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Windsor 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Windsor and Athens

Athens Windsor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)