Athens is an energetic city known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Athens and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Athens?
You should plan to spend around $173 (€154) per day on your vacation in Athens. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $72 (€64) on meals
- $30 (€27) on local transportation
- $142 (€126) on hotels
A one week trip to Athens for two people costs, on average, $2,422 (€2,156). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,211
€1,078
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,422
€2,156
-
One Month
Per person
$5,190
€4,620
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,422
€2,156
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,844
€4,312
-
One Month
For a couple
$10,380
€9,240
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Athens cost?
A one week trip to Athens usually costs around $1,211 (€1,078) for one person and $2,422 (€2,156) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Athens on average costs around $2,422 (€2,156) for one person and $4,844 (€4,312) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Athens will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Athens on average costs around $5,190 (€4,620) for one person and $10,380 (€9,240) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Athens expensive to visit?
Athens is a vibrant city teeming with activities and adventures. Whether you're a frugal traveler or someone ready to splurge, you'll find your niche in this dynamic place. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Although Athens can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $71 (€63) per day, mid-range travelers spend $175 (€154) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $418 (€368) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Athens.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Athens is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Trento or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Athens Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Athens?
The average Athens trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Athens travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Athens cost?
Athens on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$29
(€26)
|
$71
(€63)
|
$164
(€146)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$12
(€11)
|
$30
(€27)
|
$76
(€68)
|
|
Food2
|
$29
(€26)
|
$72
(€64)
|
$178
(€158)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$16
(€14)
|
$40
(€36)
|
$97
(€87)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-16
(€5-14)
|
$13-38
(€11-34)
|
$29-86
(€25-76)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Athens is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $71 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Athens, like Athens Backpackers, Safestay Athens Monastiraki, and Pella-Inn. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking. Moreover, the city provides great public transportation, which allows budget travelers to save on expensive taxi or Uber fares. Food also plays a significant role in a visitor's experience to Athens, yet budget travelers might stick to street food or hostel meals, resulting in less exposure to the wonderful culinary scene.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. A trip to Athens wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $175 per person, per day.
In Athens, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Ava Hotel and Suites is a fantastic option for families, and Brasil Suites Boutique Hotel is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Athens here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you want an all encompassing getaway with top-notch amenities and exceptional service, get ready for a daily cost around $418. Staying in upscale hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, indulging in lavish activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the city will require a more luxurious budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Athens Full Day Private Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Athens
In Athens, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $69 and peak summer season rising to an average of $129. Prices typically range from $38 to $256, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Athens for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $142 (€126). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $71 (€63) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Athens? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Athens include:
- Acropolis Exclusive Residence starting at $186
- Ava Hotel and Suites starting at $194
- MET34 Athens starting at $161
- Brasil Suites Boutique Hotel starting at $158
- The Y Hotel starting at $89
As a sizable city, Athens offers numerous lodging options. From affordable hostels such as Athens Backpackers to cozy vacation rentals and upscale hotels, there's plenty of variety. However, be prepared for higher rates if you stay in the city center, where you'll also have easy access to public transit and attractions.
Athens's public transportation allows you to stay further away from the city for cheaper lodging, but commuting might add extra transportation costs and eat up your time.
This family-friendly city makes Athens a great option for traveling with kids, and you'll want to find a larger place to stay. Being in such a big city, rooms can sometimes feel a bit small and tight.
If you're spending up to a week in Athens, getting a vacation rental with a kitchen could help you save money by letting you prepare some of your own meals.
By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.
Lots of folks enjoy wandering around Athens, making it ideal to book a place in the heart of the city. Be aware that this may mean spending a bit more.
The city's historic old town draws many tourists. While accommodations in this area might be expensive, they often come with a lot of charm and are well-placed for easy access to everything.
Transportation Budget in Athens
Transportation in a big city like Athens is a must, and the good news is that the public transit system is top-notch. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines. For the budget traveler, public transportation is ideal, but taxis and rideshares are also readily available if you're in a hurry.
If you're someone who enjoys discovering a place on foot, you'll love it here. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $30 (€27) per person, per day, on local transportation in Athens. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Athens is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$30
€27
Public transportation in Athens continues to be renovated following the Olympic Games in 2004. It's very affordable and one ticket will let you travel on all modes of transport including the metro, suburban trains, trams, trolleybuses, and buses for about an hour. There are also full day and weekly passes available. Public transportation in the city is prone to strikes, in which case traffic can become frustratingly congested.
The metro system is relatively new, opened in 2001, and the stations are quite impressive. There are three lines that currently make up the system. Line 1 connects the city center with the Peace and Friendship Stadium. Line 2 connects the city center with the coastal zone, and Line 3 runs along the coastal zone.There are also buses and trolley buses that run throughout the city. This buses are convenient and generally reliable, and are a good and affordable option to visit parts of the city that are not accessible by metro.
Greek Island Ferry Tickets
Using public transit regularly? Multi-day transit passes can save you a good amount of money.
Watch for pickpockets on buses, trains, and in stations. Just a reminder that Athens is a major city.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private Limo Transfer From ATH Airport To Athens/Pireaus/Suburbs for $206 details
- Private Athens Airport Transfers for $77 details
How much does it cost to go to Athens? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Athens will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Athens, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.
Food Budget in Athens
The dining in Athens is truly world-class, and you should definitely experience it. Be sure to enjoy meals at local restaurants and sample some unique offerings. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Athens can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Athens is $72 (€64) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$72
€64
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Athens is around $73 (€64) per person, with previous travelers spending from $29 to $180. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Athens are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $22
- Lunch: $11 to $29
- Dinner: $22 to $51
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $11
There are some very affordable and delicious meal options available in Athens. If you're looking for something quick and cheap, try the souvlaki. This is made with grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, vegetables, and Greek tzatsiki sauce. These ingredients are wrapped in a thin piece of pita bread and served with French fries. There is often an extra charge to sit at a table, so get the food to go and you can save a little money.
Plaka has many different restaurants. Many of these cater to tourists and can be more expensive than those found elsewhere, but you'll likely end up having at least one meal here during your sightseeing. There are plenty of souvlaki shops. You can also head to Adrianou, which is on the north side of the Acropolis from Thissio. Here you will find many different tavernas. These are also touristy and a little expensive, particularly if you find one with views of the Acropolis.
You can save money by enjoying meals at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many eateries in tourist areas or business centers provide lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are frequently just smaller and cheaper versions of their dinner options. Sometimes, if you search in the right places, you can have a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price. For dinner, just keep it light.
If you're dining out with children, try to find restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since those meals tend to be cheaper. Remember, some places may not highlight their kids' options, so don't forget to ask your waiter first.
Countless hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, but some will add it as an additional fee. The price and quality can change based on the hotel. Being informed ahead of time can aid in deciding whether to budget extra funds. You might enjoy the delightful buffet offered at the hotel, or perhaps a more economical option would be a nearby bakery or cafe.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you to avoid spending on drinks. It's also a win for the environment.
When planning your tour, don't forget to check what meals are included. You might have to pay for some of your own food, which could add to your expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Athens. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Private Flavors of Athens Food Tour for $236 details
- Athens Cooking Class and Lunch in our beautiful garden in Greece for $114 details
- Private Athens Morning Food Tour (15+ tastings) - Best Seller for $161 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Athens, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
-
Ice cream
€3.00
-
Souvlaki
€2.20
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Athens
Tourists are naturally attracted to Athens due to its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and historical sights.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Athens typically cost an average of $40 (€36) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$40
€36
There are countless historical sights spread throughout Athens. Major landmarks include the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, the Kerameikos, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathinako Stadium, and Lycabettus Hill.
In addition to the obvious famed sights, there are also many interesting Neoclassical buildings, interesting winding streets, and small Greek Orthodox churches that are fun to find and explore. Don't just check sights off in your guidebook, but make a point of looking around and wondering into the unexplored gems.
There are plenty of activities and festivals in Athens, particularly when the weather is pleasant. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is held during the summer and there are a diversity of events that range from theater to performing arts and music. Another unique activity in Athens is to attend a basketball game. There are two major teams and tickets can be purchased at the stadiums.
Museums and Attractions:
Athens boasts some of the world's most well-known museums and landmarks. 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.
Historical Sights:
The old town, steeped in history, draws in a wide array of visitors. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Athens. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Half Day Tour for $92 details
- Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Group tour in German or Dutch for $69 details
- Small-Group Women History in Ancient Greece Walking Tour for $45 details
Nightlife Budget in Athens
The nightlife in Athens is top-notch, making it a must-visit destination for partygoers from around the world. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $25 (€23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Athens per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$25
€23
Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.
If you're out drinking at night, keep an eye on your surroundings. You could be a target for pickpockets, so it's wise to stay in a group and with people you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Athens. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Acropolis Private Wine Tasting @ Finewine store for $64 details
- Private Sunset Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Tapas for $286 details
- Greek food and wine tasting for $56 details
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 27, 2025
Traveling in Athens
The Acropolis, Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece and is home to a population of over 3.7 million people. It's most famous as the birthplace of Classical Greece and the history in the city is incomparable to that found anywhere. It became the national capital of the modern Greek State in the 1830s, before which it was just a small village with a very impressive history. The city was redesigned by architects and city planners and incorporated large public squares, lots of green space, and wide avenues. The city has had its ups and downs both economically and politically, but it remains a beautiful and impressive place to explore.
The city hosted the 2004 Summer Olympic Games which led to major renovation to the transportation infrastructure and historical center. During this time the city's most famous classical era ruins and monuments were connected through a network of pedestrian streets, making for a wonderful tourist attraction.
Like many of the touristy cities in Europe, spring and fall are the best times to visit. The summer is incredibly hot and dry and the winter occasionally sees rain or even snow. If you're tight on money though, the low season of winter can offer you many opportunities to save while avoiding the peak season crowds.
Neighborhoods & Around
Athens is a sprawling city that is enclosed by Mt Ymettos, Mt Parnitha and Mt Pendeli. There are also twelve hills, including the seven historical hills, within the city. In general, the tourist attractions are found in a small area around the city center and Syntagma Square. Spreading out from this square are the districts of Plaka to the south, Monastiraki and Thissio to the west, Kolonaki to the northeast and Omonia to the northwest.
Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio are all charming and interesting historic areas that sit at the foot of the Acropolis. The houses in these areas are from the 19th century and are restored to their original neoclassical style. Each of these districts has pedestrian streets, interesting shops, outdoor cafes, and historical ruins that date back to the city's Roman era. Kolonaki is an upscale, residential area that offers some upscale, boutique shops, interesting art galleries, and plenty of cafes. Omonia has undergone a gentrification since the arrival of the metro and now there are many students that live in this area. It is also where you will find the National Archeaological Museum.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We passed through Athens when we were flying from one Greek island to another. We only had a night and stayed near the airport, but there was a cheap airbnb and it was really convenient.