All the Things You Need to Know About Travel to Athens, Greece | Greece Travel

[@justme-fe2sf]

As a Greek American who understands both cultures, I have a helpful tip for those in a hurry at a restaurant, wishing to eat and leave quickly. If you find yourself pressed for time while sitting down, inform your server when they take your order. In Greece, it is generally considered a bit rude for the server to bring the bill as soon as you've finished eating. They perceive it as pressuring the customer to leave, and they don't engage in such practices. Instead, let your server know about your time constraint, and once your order has arrived and you don't anticipate needing anything else, request the check. This way, you can pay before you finish your meal and avoid waiting when you're ready to leave. On the topic of safety, I appreciate Tiffany's valuable advice regarding scams and things to be cautious about. Greece is still a very safe country, although it used to be even safer in the past. Greece faces a significant issue with illegal immigration, and while I don't want to attribute all the crime to immigrants, many incidents stem from the challenges of arriving in a new country with limited means to sustain oneself. My personal recommendation is to exercise the same level of caution you would in your own country. Avoid getting intoxicated, stay aware of your surroundings, refrain from hitchhiking (even though it's much safer in Greece compared to the United States), and maintain an alert demeanor. This will discourage anyone from perceiving you as an easy target. Typically, the risks involve scams or pickpocketing, and more serious offenses are rare. Overall, Greece is a very safe country, and people will generally assist you if you're in need. Nevertheless, employing common sense and adhering to basic safety precautions will ensure you have the Greek holiday you've always dreamt of.

[@tammyleran]

We’re going to Greece in May and I’ve watched many travel advice videos, I think yours has been the most practical and thoughtful. Thank you!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you! Have a great trip.

[@jrs2024]

How was your trip?! My husband & I are going next month, our first time! Any add’l tips - Athens, ferries, food? ☺️ Thank you.

[@マオミー]

Agree. So helpful. Can’t wait to get there!

[@TheWrightLifeTravelChannel]

This is the video we need because Athens is on the short list for 2023. Thanks!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!

[@welshtraveller1113]

Big thank you for your helpful tips. Very useful. 😀

[@agirlandherpassport]

You’re welcome!

[@AniHajderaj]

i lived in athens when i was kid, and been back there a couple of times since coming to canada and you were pretty much on point. pick pocketing is probably the biggest thing to look out for so its best to take a taxi to downtown athens if you have a lot of bags, also dress modestly so you dont stand out

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes! I saw someone on the plane to Athens with tons of expensive jewelry and I hope she doesn’t get robbed.

[@AniHajderaj]

@@agirlandherpassport i never understood wearing accessories on the plane, makes security clearance so slow

[@agirlandherpassport]

Oh yeah she would have had to taken them all off. Although, should could have easily taken them off before security and then back on later.

[@BlackMetalNomad82]

THE BRACELETS!!! They tried doing that to me in Monastiraki many times back in September. They like to hang around the ancient library, and on the roads leading up to the Acropolis.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes that is their most popular area to hang out in.

[@pvuccino]

Something else I have to say as an Athenian, that I think most tourists don't know and I think I haven't heard in many travel blogs. Most ancient monuments have free entrance. And that's because they're on public streets or public squares, so they couldn't possibly charge a fee to a person who just wants to go to work or just grab a bite to eat! There's only a handful of them that are in clear, separated areas and thus there's no way someone would enter them if they didn't want to visit the sites, so there's a ticket there. These sites include the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and I think The Temple of Olympius Zeus. Which granted are where most tourists want to go, but believe me Athens is full of ancient sites and for people on a budget this may be important. There's a saying in Athens, that you can't dig a few feet on the ground without calling the Archaeological Department! 😄😄

[@agirlandherpassport]

This is something I actually mentioned in an early video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZate2aKp9yMpcU

[@christicook2238]

These are great tips for Athens. I just got back from there 2 weeks ago and loved it. People need to be prepared to walk and climb stairs. Also, I used the I-Bank ATM’s and was never charged a conversion fee. I was only charged a $2.60 fee for use of the ATM.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes there are lots of hills! Where is the I bank atm? I have never heard of it! Thanks

[@agirlandherpassport]

Oh National Bank. No they don’t my bank does.

[@christicook2238]

Ok. I tried it just to see and was pleasantly surprised I only was being charged the $2.50 service fee plus the $2.00 fee from my bank. I really appreciated all of your tips.

[@agirlandherpassport]

That’s great!

[@peterolsson8906]

I’ve been to Athens seven times and I think you covered the most important.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!

[@joannem9820]

Taxi drivers are notorious for overcharging tourists. Always make sure the driver has the meter running when you start your trip. It's also recommended to negotiate upfront the flat rate of what the driver will charge you to your destination, just so there are no surprises. Also, ensure that the meter is not set to the double tariff, which the driver tends to use after midnight. This happened to me in the daytime. I have so many stories of taking taxis from the airport and being overcharged, and I speak fluent Greek. I've become very wary of taxi driver's in Athens as a result.

[@agirlandherpassport]

This is why I always use an app like Uber or Beat. It is much less likely to happen. If they won’t turn on the meter, I pay what I want or get out. They can’t do anything about it as they are also breaking the law.

[@joannem9820]

@@agirlandherpassport Apps are very recent. They were not around when I travelled to Greece previously. Taxi drivers will try to justify the steep amount by mentioning that there are tariffs, taxes and toll fees and that is why the amount is more.

[@giannistatsiopoulos331]

There are also apps that emulate a real meter

[@laurasardinha]

​@@agirlandherpassportdoes Uber and Lyft works great ins Athens? How about in Santorini?? Thank you!!

[@agirlandherpassport]

@@laurasardinha Uber does work but not Lyft. Neither works in Santorini. You're welcome!

[@bobfotoples6950]

I think you did a very nice job covering what people need to know. Since you've been there almost 3 years, you know what's what. I've been there twice since 2018 and returning in a year , and I still watch all the videos I can to see if anything changes. It's amusing sometimes to hear perople who have been everywhere, and hearing them try to pronounce things they see and eat in Athens. You do a nice job. I hope you're still going to language classes. I try to pronounce exactly as my cousin Eleni does. She lives in Galatsi, and has lived in Greece her whole like. Keep up the good work. I sent you a coffee. 🙂

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!!!

[@barbararaesis5859]

Very good advice!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!!

[@Al-uv3dn]

The scams and security concerns you mentioned I think apply to every city in the world and to everyone, visitor or local.

[@agirlandherpassport]

They vary but the intent is the same.

[@ted1452]

Thanks for the info. I have used Welcome Pick Ups from and to the airport and they are really great.

[@agirlandherpassport]

They are great. I have been using them since I started coming to Greece.

[@TheGlitterGlobe]

Tiffany, I find the marble steps up to the Acropolis to be slick even when they’re not wet. I’ve seen tourists wipe out on perfectly sunny days! I think flip flops or any smooth bottomed shoes are a big no in Athens. Also, and I hope there are exceptions that I don’t know about (and I learned to speak Greek because of this), but food allergies can be a problem. I have a horrible gluten allergy and it’s a struggle even when I order a Greek salad or fish. Silverware tossed into the bread basket is my personal bane and I swear I’m just going to stick some in my purse next year, lol. It doesn’t keep me from coming to Greece every year but it does keep me from eating out much.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Oh yes the monuments are the worst. Ask them to bring you a fresh set and explain that nothing can touch bread even from before. They usually are okay with it.

[@georgiahaligas818]

This was one of the most informative videos! I will follow you on more videos. Thank you so much

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!

[@ayadalzahron]

This is a great video with lots of great tips.

[@taki2003]

great information! I love using AIRBNB when I visit...I feel like part of the neighborhood!!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!

[@orozcoaj69]

Great tips. I love Athens 🇬🇷💙. And Koukaki neighborhood is awesome 👍🏽

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!!

[@muhamedayman824]

very helpful and informative, thank you

[@bobfotoples6950]

I like the goat photo behind you on the desk!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Me too! It’s a postcard I got in Sifnos. The goats are too cute!

[@mesaekso1443]

Nice video,Tiff!Especially the part about the con tactics!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!

[@UpintheairFL]

Great video! Thanks! Hoping to travel in 2023 to Athens after Easter for three weeks. Just started my trip research

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks! Good time to come!

[@UpintheairFL]

Before pestering you with questions I plan to watch all your Greece related videos. Time to fire up the Pimsleur Learn Greek audio!!! 🤓 Regards from South Florida 🌴

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks for watching. Let me know if you do have questions when you are done.

[@UpintheairFL]

Holy Mackerel! Might be years before I finish watching all your videos! Thats a bunch of work you did. Very impressive! Thanks 🌴

[@agirlandherpassport]

Haha. Thank you!

[@gorgo1945]

Great tips today Tiffany. I especially liked the advice about safety on the metro. We have been robbed 3 times and did not suspect anything at all due to the very professional way the pick pockets go about it. Please be super aware of who is around you especially on line 1 (coloured green on the displays) on the metro. Generally Greece is very safe, in our opinion. Just follow common sense rules as we all should when visiting new places. xx

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you! Sorry that happened. They also target people they feel are tourists and aren’t paying attention. It’s actually the worst on the Blue line.

[@aussieanne6812]

I’ll be visiting Athens for the first time at the end of September this year. Your video has been really helpful and clear. Thanks😎🇦🇺

[@agirlandherpassport]

You’re welcome!

[@jrs2024]

Wow 3x, sorry to read. Curious, what did they steal & from what (side-strap purse, wallet in front pocket, backpack)? Thank you as we’re heading there next month.

[@shaulkirsch1263]

🙏😊 & the siga siga explanation is quite good 😊😊😊

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!!

[@jennyedmund4035]

This is a great video with lots of great tips. We were in Athens in 2015 on a vagabond European trip. It was our favorite country! I'm so glad that you mentioned safety, we had a wonderful experience but my husband was almost pickpocketed at the airport. So we will be aware in November when we come back for a cruise. Plaka is a great area, we are actually staying at the same hotel because the experience was so good.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks! Hope you have a great trip.

[@despinakyraleos2234]

which hotel did you stay at?

[@eleni766]

I love Athens, cannot wait to return❤ such a great video

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you!!

[@no-secret-chart]

This was such a great video Tiffany! Your advice is always good, but this is especially helpful. It has all of the info I wish we had before we came the first time and even more things I never thought of for our our next trip. Thank you! You are awesome! Vickie

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you so much!!! So glad you found it helpful.

[@crossed_threads]

Great video. Lots of good advice. A couple of things I would add is, other than the trips to and from the airport, Athens taxis are very affordable. Just write the address of where your going on a paper and hand it to the driver (or try your luck at the pronunciation. 😜) The other is pickpockets are also on the trams, that's where they got my husband and a friend of ours who lives in Voula. Lastly, a shout out for the Archaeology Museum. I do wish I had a job that would let me work from anywhere but instead I'll live vicariously thru you. Cheers!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks! They are affordable. However, I rarely hail a taxi. I always use an app so I don’t have to worry about them going to the wrong place.

[@crossed_threads]

@@agirlandherpassport which app do you use? it would be good to know for next time.

[@agirlandherpassport]

I usually use Uber which in Greece calls a taxi. There is also a local app called Beat

[@pcoletta615]

superb info...I m arriving early Nov,, will hope to stay 2 months,, I really appreciate your advice, I hope to take language classes,, and meet up with long term expats.. I hope maybe to meet up..,

[@agirlandherpassport]

So glad you found it helpful! And enjoy your time in Greece!

[@jillalbrecht8739]

Totally agree with your comment of just saying no to those offering flowers or other items. You will see scammers near the Acropolis area. I said a stern no and walked away.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Walking away is the best way!

[@christicook2238]

I said a stern NO and they wouldn’t leave me alone so I did a fake sneeze. They promptly left. 😂

[@agirlandherpassport]

@@christicook2238 Haha! I love it!

[@nigeobm4595]

In every new video you make, you are more beautiful than the previous one.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks

[@nigeobm4595]

@@agirlandherpassport Have you noticed that many Greeks when you say "Thank you" they answer "nothing"?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes. It’s like saying it’s nothing. Like in American we say no problem

[@nigeobm4595]

@@agirlandherpassport Exactly. It is the first thing that comes to our mind.

[@linzeybruce5037]

Hi Tiffany...love your videos. Always very helpful. I'm in Koukaki for few days. Would be nice to meet for coffee..

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thank you! I’m not in Athens at the moment. I hope you enjoy your trip!

[@nomicucce987]

just back from Athens :) i ubered my way everywhere. i didn't do much archaeology :)) spent time on the balcony of a friend:) i was planning to contact you for a cup of coffee but i didn't get a chance. maybe next time. cheers.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Balcony sitting in Athens is a Tiffany approved way to spend your holiday!! Glad you had a good time.

[@jrs2024]

Terrific to hear. Curious, how much euro for an average Uber ride? I assume typical process like in USA. Thanks!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Uber calls a taxi in Athens not a private driver. It’s fine though. Most rides that are less than 15 minutes are less than €10.

[@nostaligia4021]

We just came back after spending 4+3 days in Athens. A group of young girls kept handing small rose with stem to me. I said no several times and kept walking and they kept following. Then my sister yelled at them "NO". One of the girls threw a rose at me from behind. Yeah, what you said was so true

[@agirlandherpassport]

I don’t know how they can do it. I would not like being told no time after time.

[@jrs2024]

😳

[@despinakyraleos2234]

Hi Tiffany, as a Greek Canadian what I find most annoying in Greece is that they take their time with giving you the cheque. When you try to get their attention they look elsewhere. I saw that done to someone else as well. I find that odd. I get that they don't want to rush you but sometimes you just want to eat and go because it's been a long day or because you're tired. On my last day in Nafplio I was on a time limit and I needed some breakfast. In my 2nd generation Greek I made it it clear to the wait staff, politely, that I needed to eat, drink coffee, and pay, all within 45 minutes. It was done! And respectfully so. I thanked them .

[@alx_gr1]

You can simply pay when you get the food/drink (the exact moment they bring your order). That way, you won't have to wait long for the cheque. That's what I always do when I am in a rush since I know how things work.

[@agirlandherpassport]

They don’t get that though. They they you should relax and enjoy your food. Remember it’s a late night culture.

[@agirlandherpassport]

You can but you might want to order more later. But you can ask for the bill at anytime.

[@TheGlitterGlobe]

You can also just get up and go hand them the $ whenever you want to leave. It’s what I do when I’m in a hurry and what I’ve seen Greeks do.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Oh yes if I need to go I pack up my stuff and walk the register. They will come and let you pay.

[@Bellydance1971]

Oh I need to hire you for my trip. I arrive early morning 8am June 1. Can I purchase a bus ticket to kalamata at the bus counter for next day? Seems complicated

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes, you can. It is easy. You can walk up and purchase the ticket the day of if you want. The bus to Kalamata goes very often so they shouldn't be full. Just go early.

[@mariatobias9948]

Thanks for the great info. Any advice for a group of young ladies traveling to Greece for first time for a week. Place to stay in Athens and a local beach area that is accessible via bus, taxi or even walking?

[@sarahgall7363]

A few simple words might be good especially Oxi for street scammers, perhaps Efharisto too as it’d be appreciated. Siga siga I agree with!

[@agirlandherpassport]

They are usually not Greek but yes Oxi is good too!

[@kwei-norteyquaye573]

Hi, I am going to Athens in February with my family, and would like some advice on the clothes to pack? Do we need jackets? Thanks

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes, it will be cold then. You will probably want coats not just jackets.

[@GCStalker]

Very long queue at passport control Athens. About 1 hour for non EU nationals.

[@agirlandherpassport]

That can definitely happen but I have also had no wait so it’s hard to predict.

[@davidpowelson4817]

How is September? Less crowds and good weather, I assume?

[@agirlandherpassport]

September is the best in Greece. Less crowds and not as hot.

[@despinakyraleos2234]

September is the best time to be in Greece, I always go then. The water is warmer to swim in too as it's had all summer to warm up.

[@agirlandherpassport]

@@despinakyraleos2234 I agree!

[@conniedean3787]

Should I wear sneakers to walk to the Acropolis - I will be arriving November 22, I made reservations for a walking tour

[@agirlandherpassport]

Anything with good grip will be fine as it is slippery up there. But comfortable is also important on a walking tour.

[@despinakyraleos2234]

I was approached by one of those bracelet people and I wasn't forceful enough with my no's. Thankfully he got nothing from me. All my stuff was intact as I only carry my belongings cross body, and one of hands is always on it. This September on Ermou I saw a tourist reporting to police that she was pickpocketed, I felt badly for her. Her ID was taken as well. That would be so daunting to deal with.

[@agirlandherpassport]

I say no before they even ask. Haha. But I think I must give them a look as many don’t even approach me anymore. Or I have a reputation. If that happens again just walk away. Sometimes not acknowledging them at all also works.

[@barbaraweiss3119]

I am heading to Athens at the end of this week (September 6 - 8). Should I still be prepared for extreme heat & humidity? Is there any dress code at the attractions?

[@agirlandherpassport]

It is still hot. Not extremely but warm enough and humid as we had rain this week. No high heels at the archaeological sites and no shorts and cover your shoulders in churches.

[@nidamarcelo8144]

Hi, me and my daughter are going to athens in September for the first time for 8 days. Regarding the taxi, do they charge per person or not

[@agirlandherpassport]

They do not charge per person.

[@masad.739]

I've heard Uber is available in Athens. Is this true? Is it also true that a cab will come even if you request an Uber on your app?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Uber only calls a taxi in Athens. Private cars are not allowed to be Ubers.

[@janetf3377]

How long is it approximately from when the plane lands till you are out of the airport?

[@garyroberts3859]

Hi passport girl, I’ve watched a lot of your videos and this one is really helpful. I’m planning to get a taxi from the airport to be taken to the bus station to get a bus to the PELOPPONESE …(Kalamarta ) Is that going to be more than to the Centre of town?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks. Not really. It is on the western side of Athens. You can also take the X93 bus from the airport to the bus station. It will be much cheaper than a taxi.

[@garyroberts3859]

@@agirlandherpassport oh, thanks for the tip. Much appreciated.

[@agirlandherpassport]

You’re welcome!

[@jrs2024]

Kaliméra. New to your video, terrific info. Curious, how much minimum euro to have only on 1st day when arriving in Athens airport in the morning (bus / taxi), a simple lunch and checking in at the hotel. Tipping? Or is tipping not a cultural expectation? Thank you!

[@agirlandherpassport]

Thanks! The bus is €5.50. The taxi is a set rate depending on the time of day between €40-55. Lunch for two around €25 and tips. Tips are not large here, a euro for easy things and more for a sit down meal. Tips for the bags should be about €1 each bag.

[@jrs2024]

@@agirlandherpassport Thank you! I’d write the Greek translation but might read offensive. Practicing a few phrases! We’re excited to visit soon!

[@agirlandherpassport]

@@jrs2024 You’re welcome

[@nidamarcelo8144]

We're staying in Zafolia hotel with the tour, is it a nice and clean hotel?

[@agirlandherpassport]

I don't know it so I couldn't say. I would check booking.com for reviews.

[@nidamarcelo8144]

@@agirlandherpassportthank you! I love your vlog

[@pcristina30]

On the topic of safety, what do you think about the backpack purse? I specifically got one that is marketed as “anti-theft” because it only has a small zip pocket facing out (for lip balm, tissues) and the actual zipper for main compartment is on the side that faces my back. Any thoughts on these? Are we taking pickpockets that can easily cut a small hole in bottom of bag and this “anti-theft” is a joke? Or would a backpack with no access from portion facing out be enough of a deterrent. Or is there a better type of purse you recommend?

[@agirlandherpassport]

As someone who lives here, I carry a normal handbag. The pickpocketing here isn't a slash-and-grab type thing. They will either do it unknowingly or you will be cornered on the metro. Carrying this bag gives you as false sense of security instead of remaining alert. And I never recommend a backbag as you stand out as a tourist and you can't see what is happening to it. Bags should be in front of you and zipped closed.

[@evie37509]

Hey Tiffany have you been to the Ellinikon park? What's your view on the whole thing as a foreigner living here?

[@agirlandherpassport]

I haven’t been yet. My view on the park or living here?

[@ricardo68]

Tiffany, what is the difference between the Acropolis and the Parthenon? Yes, I’ve been a few times to Athens. 😊

[@Al-uv3dn]

Acropolis refers to all the monuments that exist on that hill. Parthenon is the biggest and most famous of those monuments dedicated to goddess Athena.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes the Acropolis is the hill. The Parthenon is the temple and as Al mentioned there are many monuments on the hill not just the Parthenon.

[@jonhewitt3]

Omonoia Square, it's not as bad as people make it out to be! Just be sensible

[@agirlandherpassport]

Exactly! And be aware of your surroundings

[@nostaligia4021]

we bought 1.5L bottled water in grocery stores (B Bazaar A/B etc) for around 0.35 each. They are packed in 6 but you can open the pack and buy 1 or more. We bought groceries and cooked dinners while in Athens - great family fun. (we still eat out a lot and food prices were quite reasonable unlike in Paris)

[@agirlandherpassport]

There should be singles in the cooler if you don’t want to break the package. In Athens you can drink the water. This is just for walking around but of course you could fill a reusable one

[@tastath]

Actually, breaking the package is frowned upon. There are shelves with single bottles as well.

[@jrs2024]

@@agirlandherpassport oh good to know that water from faucet is safe to drink? Thanks.

[@speedie212]

Do we need cash or cards? - I do preferer using card to pay and not carry cash

[@agirlandherpassport]

Most places take cards but cash can get you a discount sometimes and is preferred for small purchases.

[@ladolcevita7777]

Hi Tiffany. If I wanted to visit 2-3 villages on Naxos island, besides Naxos town where we are staying, which would you recommend. I'm thinking one would be Filoti for the view?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Filoti is definitely a great one. Another great village is Halki. Some people also like Apiranthos.

[@ladolcevita7777]

@@agirlandherpassport Thanks, Tiffany. I should mention my fear of heights on the road through the mountains. When I was younger and could handle it, I was on a tour bus on the Amalfi drive and believe me, I wasn't as worried back then but it still bothered me.

[@agirlandherpassport]

Oh so no Apiranthos then! You are like me then. Filoti is fine. Halki is all flat.

[@ladolcevita7777]

@@agirlandherpassport What about Apollonas?

[@agirlandherpassport]

It’s okay. Nothing much to see other than the beach and the koronos

[@cruz1118]

Do you have a Facebook page?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Yes, I do! facebook.com/agirlandherpassport

[@tomliao3361]

Are there uber drivers or only taxis? How expensive is a 2 mile taxi ride? Do you have text message alert if storm is coming? Any free subscription service?

[@agirlandherpassport]

The Ubers are taxis. They aren’t private drivers. Probably less than €5 if there isn’t traffic. Only gets texts if it is really bad so not often.

[@tomliao3361]

@@agirlandherpassport lol ok since when were ubers = taxis... Maybe Im out of touch now about things outside China. Thats quite affordable. Sounds like how it works in a medium sized city in America

[@agirlandherpassport]

In Greece, it is the only way it was allowed to operate.

[@mariebrown9415]

Also the Athens HOHO bus is a good way to get from sight to sight especially if it is on your hotel route or near by. I got a 4 day pass and it was efficient. I also used my Uber App and I hardly had to wait long from Airport or to other places. I liked the fact that I was paying in Euros to my Visa so got best conversion rate and no exchange of money. Re: no flush toilet paper. I stayed in both hotel and in AirBnbn. Hotel service will empty but in AirBNB you are on your own. Ask your host where the trash goes when you want to empty things. I took a roll of those biodegradable plastic dog Bags with me. It just seemed more sanitary to put in a bag knotted up and then into can. I don’t care what people say - the bathroom will smell if you don’t do this. Especially when you are used to flushing down a toilet. My opinion. Yes, the sun is intense. My I phone over heated twice in my cross body bag and shut down. Bring loads of SPF 75-100 sunblock and wear it. I saw some bad sunburns. Bring a hat too. Bring extra pair of sunglasses . If you wear RX eyewear invest in a pair of transition RX glasses that darken. You will appreciate them. Restarted after cooled off. Bottled water is cheap in Athens-look for a Lidl or other Greek super-market and buy a couple of big jugs or 12 pack and either decant or take your own water with you each day. Be careful to get the non- carbonated bottled water. Ask before you buy . It all looks the same in Greek unless you know the language. . This has never happened to me in the USA. I was there in Sept 2022 and split my time between 5 days Athens and 5 days Santorini. Had a great trip!

[@tomliao3361]

@@mariebrown9415 Yes maam

[@conniedean3787]

I am staying at the Athens Gate Hotel, 10 Syngrou Avenue, Athens Attiki Greece 11742 - is this a good location and does the bus drop me off close enough to my hotel from the airport

[@agirlandherpassport]

It’s not far but probably not walkable with suitcases. You can take the metro though.

[@conniedean3787]

@@agirlandherpassport maybe I will take the bus and when the bus drops me off I will look for a taxi - my luggage has wheels

[@agirlandherpassport]

The taxi stand is right next to the bus stop.

[@cruz1118]

Me and my family are planning on going for the very first time in the summer when kids are out of school. Is Athens kid friendly? 16yr old and 9yr old. Any itinerary recommendations?

[@agirlandherpassport]

Greeks love children so everything is usually family friendly. I don't have kids though so I am not 100% sure.

[@jimmyj1969]

1) Αccessability (or rather, the lack of it) is the most embarrasing thing in this country (even for me, being greek). 2) Although in Athens we all throw the paper in the toilet, this is "prohibited" in hotels, restaurants etc. I guess the want to avoid "accidents" by people how throw anything/everything in - it's no big deal if you throw some piece of paper in!

[@kloatlanta]

A lot of the sidewalks are a mess, it’s true.

[@agirlandherpassport]

It's one of my biggest complaints here.