Budget tool
Athens costs €60-100/day for budget travelers. Ancient wonders, amazing food, and Mediterranean vibes at surprisingly affordable prices.
Athens surprises with its affordability. The birthplace of democracy delivers ancient wonders, incredible food, and genuine hospitality at prices lower than most European capitals. Budget travelers can manage on $65-110 per day, mid-range travelers should expect $140-250 per day, and luxury seekers will spend $380+ per day.
Accommodation is Athens’ main expense, especially with Acropolis views. Food is remarkably cheap - €4 souvlaki is a complete meal. Attractions are affordable with the combo ticket, and transport is one of Europe’s cheapest.
Maximize your euros by:
Even budget travelers should consider:
November through March offers the best deals and pleasant temperatures (10-18°C). May-June and September balance perfect weather with moderate prices.
Avoid these expensive/difficult periods:
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up at tavernas, leave €1-2 for good service. Check if service is included (rare but happens at tourist spots).
Greece is increasingly card-friendly. Visa and Mastercard accepted at most places, but smaller tavernas and kiosks often prefer cash. ATMs charge €2-3 for foreign cards.
Athens tap water is safe but tastes mineral-heavy. Many prefer bottled water. Restaurants may charge for water - ask for tap water (“nero vrysis”) if you want free.
Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is 27km east of the city:
Athens is walkable with excellent public transport:
The €30 combo ticket includes the Acropolis (€20 alone) plus 6 other ancient sites. Valid for 5 days. If you visit even 2 extra sites, you save money. Valid for Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Kerameikos, and Aristotle's Lyceum.
Save $20-40 per tripA €3-4 souvlaki wrap is a complete, delicious meal. Greeks eat them constantly. There's no shame in having one daily for lunch - it's fresh, healthy, and leaves money for nicer dinners.
Save $15-20 per dayTourist bars in Psiri charge €6-8 for beer. Walk 5 minutes to any neighborhood kafenio (coffee house) and pay €3-4 for the same drinks plus better local atmosphere.
Save $10-15 per nightMay-June and September-October have perfect weather (25-30°C) with 30-40% lower prices than peak July-August. November-March even cheaper if you don't mind occasional rain.
Save $40-60 per dayPrices can vary by 40% depending on the season
Check out our curated travel guides from local experts.