Athens, the ancient capital of Europe, boasts a storied history dating back to the Neolithic age. Its cultural heritage is vast, and Athens travel guide will feature magnificent monuments, hilltops, forts, and temples. Exploring this heritage city offers insight into its traditional lifestyle. Take a walking tour to acquaint yourself with its modern infrastructure, vibrant nightlife, traditional gathering spots, and iconic landmarks. Additionally, venture into charming neighbouring cities to uncover hidden gems. Athens tourism provides invaluable resources for planning an enriching journey through this captivating destination.

How to reach Athens

• By air: The Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos is the city’s official international airport. Situated 35 km away from the Athens City Centre, the airport can be reached within 30-40 minutes. Together with Turkish Airlines, we at IndiGo can connect you from India to Athens with multiple flights to Athens as well as to several other European cities from Istanbul.
• By metro: Being the quickest and easiest mode of transportation, metro is affordable. The only challenge here at times is the sign printed in Greek language, but asking help from Athenians won’t leave you disappointed.
• By bus/trolley: Hop on to yellow trolleys or blue buses and reach anywhere you want to without burning a hole in your pocket. Follow the signs to get an idea on where the bus is heading or to know the next arrival time.
• By taxis: Taking a taxi is another option, especially if you are in a hurry, else it can be expensive. Going for short trips can cost you €5; along with additional charge for luggage. Also, the fare can be as high as 60% during the night and holiday season.
• Getting around/local transport in Athens: Metro or bus is one of the most convenient modes of transportation in Athens. But you can also choose to travel using trams, ferries or take hop-on and hop-off bus tour options.

The best time to visit Athens is between the months of April and June. You can also consider the months between September and October. During this time, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded

The official language in Athens is Greek, however being a popular tourist destination, many people speak English. This makes communicating relatively easy among locals and tourists.

One of the best ways to depart from a place is by collecting souvenirs, and there are several markets in Athens that sell trinkets and clothes. Some best markets in Athens are:

• Central Market (Varvakeios Agora): Explore Athens' largest food market, offering a bustling atmosphere filled with fresh produce, meats, spices, and local delicacies, providing a sensory delight for visitors.
• Monastiraki Flea Market: Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Monastiraki to discover a treasure trove of antiques, souvenirs, handmade crafts, and vintage finds, offering a vibrant shopping experience.
• Pandrossou Street Market: Pandrossou Street Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with stalls selling traditional Greek souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, and local crafts, making it a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts.
• Athens Flea Market: Athens Flea Market is a bustling marketplace in the historic Monastiraki neighbourhood, offering a vibrant array of antiques, souvenirs, clothing, and local delicacies amidst a lively atmosphere.

While travelling to the Greek capital, Athens, you need to experience the vibrant festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm. 

Athens is among the top tourist destinations in Greece. While there are tonnes of tourist sites to explore here, some of the other reasons to visit Athens are below:

• Syntagma Square: Syntagma Square is the main social, commercial, as well as political hub of the Greek. Crowned by the Acropolis, along with a central fountain and statues, the square also features the Parliament building which was the Palace of the king in the past. Lying in the heart of Athens, makes it one of the most identifiable sights. Its classical style of architecture was reformed by the Greek architects. Looking at the houses, mansions, and old public buildings of Athens is all worth your time. Not only this, the large and spacious open area is known to host various events for all. So, enjoy your time being here.
• Filopappou Hill: Based in the south-western part of the Acropolis, Filopappou Hill is a place that offers pleasant weather, greenery and peace. The place can be reached from multiple streets primarily Panetoliou, Arakinthou, and Mousseion. You will come across the most famous site “Filopappou Theatre” on the western part of this hill. The theatre is also known as the Dora Stratou Theatre, named after the famous Greek dancer Dora Stratou. Take a stroll at the “Filopappou Monument” which is at the northern part of the Acropolis. With artistic buildings and lush greenery all around the hill will give you ample spots of photography.

If you are an Indian passport holder travelling to Athens, then you have to apply for a Schengen visa online with the documents required. The Schengen visa is a short stay visa issued to visit the Schengen countries; the visa is issued to tourists that are planning to visit their friends, family or other travelling on non-business trips for up to 90 days from the date of entry. Your visit can be either continuous or several, depending upon the visa type; single entry or multiple entry. Another essential point to note while applying for the visa is that your passport should be valid for 6 months from your date of travel.

To ensure a hassle-free and seamless travel, here is a detailed information about the Greece visa – www.goindigo.in/information/visa-information/greece-gr-visa.html

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