Once a powerful city and the birthplace of democracy, theater and Western Civilization, today Athens’ cultural richness and history attracts thousands of tourists every year. Crowned by the majestic columns of the Parthenon, Athens is a perfect destination for history and archeology buffs, as well as nature lovers who will enjoy the city’s charming hillsides and year-round sunny, warm climate. Athens is also the gateway to the stunning islands just off its coast, which are home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. 

Hike up to the Acropolis — built between 510 and 410 BC — for the best photos and views of the city. Wander around Ancient Agora, the area where Socrates, Plato and Aristotle spent much of their time. Explore the stunning ruins of the Parthenon, Erechtheion and the Temple of Hephaestus. Roam the exhibits housed at the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum. You’ll soon discover few cities rival Athens’ historical importance.

Perched on the southern slopes of the Acropolis, the Makrygianni district is home to luxury hotels and top-notch restaurants. A little further south is one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, Koukaki. The heart of Athens resides in the most scenic quarter, Plaka, home to cafes and shops that merge into the Monastiraki district that's dotted with flea-markets. West of Monastiraki is the Psiri neighborhood, known for its bars and taverns. A few blocks away is the trendy Gazi neighborhood, known for its nightlife.

Experience all Greece has to offer by adding one of our excursions and tours, including a full-day cruise to three islands in the Saronic Gulf, a day trip to the ancient ruins of Delphi, or an afternoon tour to Cape Sounion, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand.

Athens is a shopping mecca with every kind of store you can imagine. Popular neighborhoods Plaka and Monastiraki have a large variety of shops, and Ermou Street is the city’s primary fashion shopping street. For bargains, Eolou and Agiou Markou streets have outdoor markets that sell everything from scarves and leather sandals to olive oil and ouzo.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a great meal, consider heading to a quiet neighborhood like Koukake, Mets or Pangrati — where locals don’t eat dinner until 9 or 10 p.m. Wherever and whenever you dine, be sure to sample traditional Greek dishes like moussaka (lamb and eggplant in bechamel sauce), souvlaki (skewered grilled lamb, pork or goat wrapped in a pita) and baklava (crushed nuts and honey in phyllo dough).

Delta Vacations vacation packages include round-trip airfare aboard Delta to Athens-Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). Vacationing to Athens is easy with daily nonstop Delta® flights from:^†

• Atlanta, daily March 30, 2024 through October 25, 2024
• Boston, daily April 11, 2024 through October 25, 2024
• New York (JFK), seasonally through January 6, 2024, daily beginning March 11, 2024 - December 1, 2024

Round-trip transfers from the airport to your hotel via minibus or private car are available for purchase. The Suburban Railway and the Athens Metro offer the quickest and most convenient way of getting into the city from the airport. Car rentals are available for your convenience and give you the freedom to travel whenever and wherever you want.

†Flight routings subject to change without notice.