What language do people speak in Athens?

Greek (Ελληνικά — the oldest surviving written language in the world, with a continuous literary tradition of 3,500 years. The Greek alphabet (developed 800 BC from the Phoenician script) is used exclusively. Modern Greek is far removed from ancient Greek but the key words are recognizable: "kalimera" (good morning), "efharisto" (thank you), "parakalo" (please/you're welcome). English is widely spoken in tourist Athens (virtually everyone under 50 in the tourist area speaks some English)

What currency is used in Athens?

Euro (€). Cards accepted everywhere in central Athens (contactless standard). Cash useful for the Monastiraki flea market, some traditional kafeneio and the souvlaki street stalls. ATMs on Syntagma Square, Ermou Street and throughout Monastiraki

How do you get around Athens?

Athens Metro (Μετρό Αθήνας — 3 lines, Line 1 (green, old, runs above ground in some sections), Lines 2 and 3 (blue and red, modern, clean, with archaeological finds displayed on the platforms): key stations: Acropolis (Line 2, 5 min walk to the Acropolis), Monastiraki (Lines 1 and 3, for the Agora and flea market), Syntagma (Lines 2 and 3, the main square). Ticket: €1.20 single, €5.70 day ticket. Taxis: TAXIBEAT or Beat app (the Athens taxi app — reliable, English receipt, no scams). No practical public transit to Cape Sounion — use KTEL bus from Pedion Areos (€7 single)

What is the best time to visit Athens?

April–June and September–November (the finest seasons: 20–28°C, manageable crowds, the Acropolis in morning light with wildflowers below (April–May). July–August: 32–38°C, very crowded, peak-season prices for everything. The summer meltemi (north wind) makes the Aegean bearable. October–November: 18–25°C, dramatically lower tourist numbers, the Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum nearly empty

How do you get to Athens?

Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH): Metro Line 3 to Syntagma 45 min (€10). Bus X95 to Syntagma 45–90 min depending on traffic (€6.20). Taxi: €38–42 fixed rate to the city center. Piraeus Port (cruise ships and island ferries): Metro Line 1 to Monastiraki 25 min (€1.20). Direct flights from all European cities, Middle East, USA (seasonal)

What is the tipping etiquette in Athens?

10% at restaurants is appreciated (5% is acceptable, not obligatory). At cafes: leave small change on the table. Taxi: round up to nearest euro. No obligation at souvlaki stands or street food. Greeks are generous hosts and the culture of tipping is warm but not pressurizing

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Athens is safe for tourists. Pickpockets operate on the Metro (Line 1, Monastiraki station) and in the Monastiraki flea market. Some areas around Omonia Square can feel rough at night. The main tourist areas (Acropolis, Plaka, Kolonaki, Syntagma, Monastiraki) are all safe. The widespread outdoor seating and late Greek social hours mean the city is lively until midnight even in October

What are the best budget tips for Athens?

Souvlaki pita wrap: €2.50–3.50. Spanakopita from a bakery: €2. Greek coffee at a kafeneio: €2. Metro single: €1.20. Acropolis combined ticket: €20 (valid for 5 days). Cape Sounion bus return: €14. Athens is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe — budget €50–70/day very comfortably

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