The Don’ts of Visiting Athens, Greece Hey there fellow travelers, greetings from Athens, Greece!
Hey there, fellow travelers! Mark here with Walter’s World, and today we’re in Athens, Greece, with the Acropolis Hill and the Parthenon behind us.
This is one of our favorite places to visit, and it’s always a great time with the food and historical sites.
However, there are a few things you should avoid doing when you come to Athens. So, here are some important don’ts for your visit.
First, don’t call the building on top of the hill “the Acropolis.” The Acropolis is the hill itself. The structure on top is the Parthenon, the iconic building you see in photos.
So, remember: the Acropolis is the hill, and the Parthenon is the building on top.
Second, don’t skip going up to the Acropolis. Despite the heat and crowds, it’s a magical experience to see the Parthenon up close.
Every time I visit Athens, turning a corner and seeing the Parthenon is an awe-inspiring moment. So, make the hike and enjoy one of the world’s most magnificent sites.
While you’re there, don’t stop at the first entrance to take photos. It gets crowded and frustrating. Walk a bit farther in, and you’ll get better pictures with fewer people in the way.
Another important tip: don’t drive in Athens. The traffic is chaotic and can be stressful. Instead, use taxis, Uber, the metro, trams, buses, or even walk. And be careful as a pedestrian; cars may not always yield to you.
Next, don’t be surprised by occasional strikes. They’re usually small and short-lived, like the one at the Temple of Zeus, which is closed just for a few hours today.
Strikes and protests may happen, but they typically don’t disrupt tourism too much. Just stay informed and plan accordingly.
Don’t worry about not speaking Greek. Most people in Athens speak English, and signs in hotels and restaurants are usually bilingual. You’ll be fine navigating the city.
Don’t drink the tap water. It’s not necessarily bad, but it’s safer to stick with bottled water. You can find it easily at kiosks around the city.
Also, protect yourself from the heat with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and wear good walking shoes for the city’s uneven and slippery surfaces.
When visiting churches, don’t wear shorts, skirts, or tank tops, as some require modest attire for entry.
In the markets, don’t feel pressured to buy things immediately. Many vendors are persistent, but take your time to compare prices and don’t hesitate to bargain, especially if you’re paying with cash.
Sometimes credit card machines might not work, so having cash can be handy and may get you better deals.
At the Acropolis, be cautious on the marble floors, which are very slippery. We’ve seen people fall and get injured, so walk carefully.
Don’t miss out on Athens’ fantastic museums. The New Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Benaki Museum are all worth a visit.
If you’re invited to a local’s home, don’t refuse their food. Greek hospitality means you’ll be offered lots of food, and it’s considered rude to decline.
Don’t skip having a meal in one of the city’s squares. While it might be pricier, the views and atmosphere are worth it.
Finally, don’t miss out on day trips from Athens. Delphi and Nafplio are excellent choices. Delphi, with its ancient ruins, and Nafplio, a beautiful and romantic city, are both fantastic for a day’s adventure.
I hope these tips help you enjoy your visit to Athens. It’s a wonderful city with incredible sights, museums, food, and people. If you liked this video, click the subscribe button.
We post new travel videos every Wednesday and Saturday, with lots more tips on our website at waltersworld.com. Have a great time in Greece!
