"Η Αθήνα η πάντα κινούμενη | Athens, the ever-moving city"
About:
Athens, the capital of Greece, was founded around 3000 BC, making it one of the world's oldest cities. It's renowned as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization. Athens flourished during the 5th century BC, known as the "Golden Age", when it produced notable cultural and intellectual figures like Socrates, Plato, and Pericles. It fell to Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, before becoming the capital of independent Greece in 1834. Today, it's a bustling city with a mix of classical and modern elements.
When to visit:
Athens, the capital city of Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The ideal time to visit Athens for a holiday is during the spring months of April to June or the autumn months of September to October when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. These shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city's ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and culinary delights. Travelers should avoid visiting Athens during the peak summer months of July and August, when temperatures can soar and tourist attractions are crowded.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Athens, Greece on a holiday is typically during the peak summer months of July and August. During this time, the city experiences scorching temperatures reaching well over 90°F (32°C) and high levels of humidity. The streets can be overcrowded with tourists, making popular attractions such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon extremely busy and challenging to navigate. Additionally, prices for accommodations and flights tend to be at their highest during this period, making it less budget-friendly for travelers. It is advisable to consider visiting Athens during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall for a more pleasant and affordable travel experience.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Winter in Athens (Dec-Feb) is the coldest and wettest period, with average temperatures around 12°C, dropping to 5°C at night. Rainfall peaks in December, averaging 57mm, and the city experiences many cloudy days. The sun shines for about 4-5 hours per day, a significant decrease from the sunny summer months. Despite the chill, snow is rare. An average day for a visitor might involve exploring indoor attractions like museums or savoring Greek cuisine in cozy tavernas, with the occasional rain shower interrupting outdoor plans.
Spring (March–May)
Spring (March–May)
Language:
In Athens, the capital city of Greece, the most commonly spoken language is Greek. It is the official language of the country and is used in all areas of public life. English is also widely understood, particularly among younger generations and those working in the tourism industry. Additionally, due to migration, languages like Albanian, Bulgarian, and Russian can be heard.