Athens Travel Guide

Greeks are known for their hospitality toward visitors, and Athens is considered a friendly tourist destination. However, understanding Greek etiquette will help you interact with residents and blend in with society.

One of the biggest challenges for visitors is the language barrier. Greek is the official language of Athens, and while it is possible to find English speakers in most tourist areas, it's always a good idea to bring a Greek phrasebook or dictionary. Understanding body language will also help you better interact with Athenians. Be aware of your gestures; for example, the hand signal for "OK" using the thumb and index finger is offensive in Greece, and Greeks indicate "yes" – a slight downward nod – and "no" – a slight upward nod – differently than Americans.

For the most part, dress is casual; however, take into account your surroundings. When hiking to the Acropolis, it's acceptable to wear shorts and a T-shirt, but you should dress more formally when touring churches and other religious sites. If you're traveling to Athens on business, it is best to bring conservative attire: a dark-colored suit or a dress that covers the knees.

When dining out in Athens, keep in mind that most Athenians do not sit down to dinner until later in the evening, typically around 9 or 10 p.m. Although it's rude to have your elbows on the table, it's polite to keep both hands above the table and not in your lap. All restaurant and bar bills include a 16 percent service fee, so tipping is not necessary, although it is customary to round up to the nearest currency note when paying with cash. Including a tip for exceptional service is also common.

The official currency of Athens is the euro (1 euro equals about $1.09). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure tocheck what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.  

Central Athens is home to everything from traditional mom and pop restaurants – generally located in the older districts at the base of the Acropolis – to high-end establishments in Kolonaki. If you're looking for a great meal away from the tourist crowd, head to some of the quieter neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets or Pangrati. Keep in mind that Athenians generally don't sit down to dinner until 9 or 10 p.m.

Wherever and whenever you dine, be sure to sample authentic Greek cuisine. Some of the more traditional dishes include moussaka (lamb and eggplant in bechamel sauce), souvlaki (skewered and grilled lamb, pork or goat wrapped in pita and commonly topped with lettuce, tomato and a yogurt-based sauce called tzatziki) and baklava (crushed nuts and honey in phyllo dough). You can try these and other local delicacies at popular locales like Lithos, Oineas and Psaras Traditional Restaurant, which is the oldest restaurant in Plaka. Or, pay extra to savor modern Mediterranean fare at the two Michelin star-awarded Funky Gourmet or enjoy a meal with a view of the Acropolis at GB Roof Garden.

Seafood is also a staple of Athens' cuisine. While many central Athens restaurants have seafood on the menu, some of the best seafood-focused eateries are located in Piraeus by the Mikrolimano fishing harbor. Varoulko Seaside, Margaro and O Giannis Fish Tavern are just some of Piraeus' most highly regarded seafood restaurants. To satisfy your seafood craving in the city center, check out Efcharis and Trata Fish Tavern.