Mistakes tourists make in Athens | part 1

I’ve lived in Athens for three years now, and in that time I’ve watched tourists make the same mistakes over and over again. So here’s a list of some of the most common ones – and how to avoid them.

1. Trying to visit every single tourist site

Let’s start with the biggest mistake: the ‘must-see-everything’ approach. Athens is bursting with history, but that doesn’t mean you need to tick off every ancient stone in a single weekend. Too many visitors arrive with a checklist longer than the Odyssey, determined to see every ruin, museum and monument. The result is exhaustion, sore feet and a blur of columns that all start to look pretty similar.

My honest opinion is that not all sites are worth the detour, especially if you’re short on time. Hadrian’s Library’s nice but not essential. The Roman Agora’s interesting, but you really won’t miss much if you skip it. Focus on the highlights – the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, maybe the Ancient Agora – and leave yourself time to wander, eat and soak up the city’s atmosphere.

2. Booking a hotel or Airbnb in the wrong area

Location really matters in Athens. Many tourists, lured by bargain prices or misleading pictures, end up staying in areas that are either inconvenient (i.e. miles out of the centre) or a little bit dodgy. Omonia, for example, is central but gets gritty, especially at night when it’s not terribly safe.

Many a time I’ve seen tourists arrive at hotels along Liosion Street or around Plataia Vathis (super sketchy area), looking absolutely horrified – these are some of the worst areas to stay in. Koukaki, Plaka and Syntagma are safe bets for first-timers, with easy access to the main sights and plenty of places to eat and drink.

3. Booking an Airbnb (unless you’re a large group)

Airbnbs might seem convenient, but unless you’re travelling with a big group, they’re really not the best idea for your stay in Athens. The explosion of short-term rentals has pushed up property prices, making it very hard for locals to find affordable housing and causing a lot of anger and frustration.

Instead, book into one of the city’s many excellent independent hotels. You’ll get better service, local tips and in most cases, a fabulous Greek breakfast. Spending your money with hotels benefits the Greek economy, while spending it with Airbnbs only benefits the platform and the owner.

4. Missing the beaches of the southern Athenian Riviera

Here’s a little secret: Athens has beaches. Really good ones, in fact. Yet most tourists never make it past the city centre, assuming the nearest stretch of sand is on Santorini.

The southern suburbs – Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza and beyond – are strung with beaches, beach bars and sparkling blue water. Some are free, others charge a small entry fee, but all offer a welcome escape from the summer heat.

Hop on the tram from Syntagma or take a taxi, and in less than an hour you’ll be swimming in the Aegean. Don’t miss Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal lake surrounded by cliffs – with its comfortable sunbeds, cute restaurant and blissful spa treatments – it’s a local favourite and a world away from the Acropolis crowds.

5. Visiting in peak summer

I totally understand the appeal of a summer holiday, and I know that for some people, it’s the only time they’re able to travel. But Athens in July and August really are the worst months to visit. Temperatures regularly soar above 35°C, the pavements radiate heat and the air feels thick enough to choke you.

If you must visit in peak summer, plan accordingly. Sightseeing’s best done early in the morning or late in the evening. Spend the afternoons in air-conditioned museums, shady parks or, better yet, at the beach. And whatever you do, don’t attempt the Acropolis at midday – more on that in part 2.

6. Not carrying frozen water in the heat

In the Athenian summer, you need to carry water everywhere, but here’s a tip you won’t find in most guidebooks: a bottle of fridge-cold water turns warm in a matter of minutes in peak heat. The trick is to freeze a bottle overnight and carry it with you.

It’ll melt slowly, providing blessedly cold sips throughout the day. You’ll thank me when you’re halfway up a hill and your water’s still refreshingly icy! You can also use it to cool down as you’re exploring.

7. Leaving bags open or wallet in back pocket

Athens is generally safe, but pickpockets are a fact of life in any big city, especially around metro stations and busy tourist areas. Don’t make it easy for them.

Keep your bag zipped, your wallet in a front pocket and your wits about you on the metro. The same goes for leaving your mobile phone on taverna tables – in touristy areas, it’s an open invitation for a quick-fingered passer-by to swipe it.

8. Wearing the wrong shoes

The marble stones of Athens are beautiful, but they’re also treacherously slippery – especially in the heat or after rain. Leave the flimsy flip-flops at home. Most locals wear trainers or sturdy sandals like Birkenstocks; definitely not beach thongs.

You’ll be walking a lot, often on uneven ground with broken pavements, so footwear with strong grip is essential. It didn’t take me long to learn that one after one too many slips!