Why Athens
Discover one of the oldest and most vibrant cities in the world – book cheap flights to Athens, Greece.
Explore the Acropolis, sample a traditional Greek coffee in Plaka, browse the market stalls of Monastiraki. Athens is the perfect destination for a short break or weekend away. Filled with history, culture and hip little neighbourhoods, you’re in for a treat when you book cheap Athens flights.
When to book cheap flights to Athens
Athens is one of the hottest cities in Europe and the Greek capital averages about 350 days of sunshine a year. Summer temperatures can be very warm, with July and August being the hottest months. Summer temperatures peak at the 30 degrees and above, so if you don’t mind heat and humidity book your Athens cheap flights during the summer. Prefer to explore Athens in a more comfortable climate? Consider booking cheap Athens flights between March and May or from September to November. It’s still warm, but temperatures during the day are much more pleasant ( between 18°C and the mid-twenties). There’s also less crowds during these months so you won’t spend as much time queuing to see the main attractions and you’ll have a bit more space to explore the city. For an excellent choice of hotels, apartments and places to stay in Athens, search Ryanair Rooms.
What to see in Athens
The Parthenon is the most popular attraction in Athens. The ancient temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena in 447 BC and is the most visited destination for tourists in the Greek capital. Make it top of your list when you book Athens flights. The Acropolis itself is probably the most historically and architecturally important structure in Greece. If you can get up early enough, head there for when it opens at 8am to see the sunrise over Philopappos Hill – and you’ll be there before the crowds of tourists arrive, too. Alternatively, walk up Mount Lycabettus to experience one of the most stunning views in all of Europe. You can either hike or take a funicular at around the halfway mark that will bring you to the summit. Monastiraki is one of the most interesting neighbourhoods in Athens. You’ll find market stalls selling everything from antiques and musical instruments to make-up and shoes. Monastiraki is also renowned for its ‘secret’ cafés and restaurants where you can sample traditional and modern Greek cuisine in unique surroundings.
Getting around
Getting around Athens is pretty easy. The most efficient way to navigate the city is via its underground railway system, known locally as the Metro. It has stops at pretty much all of the main attractions you’ll want to visit. It’s also pretty affordable, you can purchase a 3-day tourist ticket or a single ticket that can be used an unlimited amount of times within 90 minutes. Athens also offers plenty of public buses and trams. Be sure to validate your tickets in the orange boxes on buses or you might be charged a hefty fine. Planning to see more than just the capital? Check out Ryanair Car Hire for great value deals on car hire in Athens.
What to eat in Athens
Greek cuisine is famous all over the world. With cheap flights to Athens you can afford to sample the best cuisine the city has to offer. Local specialities include souvlaki, sfougata and mousakka. For more tips on what to see, do and eat in Athens, check out our Athens guides on Try Somewhere New.