Ancient iconThe Acropolis & Parthenon
Climb the sacred rock at opening time for the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and sweeping views over the city.
Athens, Greece
Flight + hotel city breaks · Steps from the Acropolis
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Athens City Break Packages
7-night flight + hotel stays in the heart of Athens with return flights from Canada
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At a glance
Everything you need to know about Athens
Athens is where Western civilisation began — the Parthenon still crowns the Acropolis above a sprawling, sun-baked capital of ancient ruins, buzzing tavernas, and rooftop bars. Compact and endlessly walkable, the historic core links Syntagma, Plaka, and Monastiraki, while the metro whisks you to the port of Piraeus and the airport. Spring and autumn bring warm, clear skies ideal for sightseeing.
Athens, AtticaClimate
Climate
10–33°C · Mediterranean, dry summers
JanDec
PeakShoulderAvoid
Hot, dry summers (up to 33°C) and mild winters — spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Cards widely accepted · carry small cash for tavernas
Entry
Visa-free
Schengen — up to 90 days on a valid passport
Top Experiences in Athens
Ancient icon
Old townPlaka & Monastiraki
Wander the neoclassical lanes of Plaka, browse Monastiraki flea market, and eat souvlaki under the Acropolis.
World-class museumThe Acropolis Museum
See the original Parthenon sculptures in a glass-floored gallery built above ancient ruins.
Essential info for Canadian travellers
Passport: A Canadian passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area is required.
Entry & ETIAS: Canadians can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. A new ETIAS travel authorisation is being introduced for Europe — check requirements before you fly.
Travel insurance: Provincial health plans do not cover care in Greece. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Power & plugs: Greece uses 230V/50Hz with Type C and F plugs — bring a European adapter for your Canadian devices.
Time zone: Athens runs on Eastern European Time (EET) — seven hours ahead of Toronto.
Best time to visit Athens
Apr – JunPeak season
Warm, clear days ideal for sightseeing before the summer heat and crowds.
Jul – AugShoulder season
Very hot (30°C+) and busy — start early and pause for a midday siesta.
Sep – OctPeak season
Warm sea, thinner crowds, and comfortable temperatures — the sweet spot.
Nov – MarLow season
Mild and quiet with the lowest prices; occasional rain but plenty of clear days.
Where to stay
Athens neighbourhoods
Athens is best explored on foot from a central base. Here's how the main neighbourhoods compare so you can pick the right one.
Plaka
Old town
The romantic old quarter of neoclassical houses and stepped lanes right below the Acropolis.
Best for
- First-timers
- Couples
- Sightseeing
Syntagma
City centre
The central square by Parliament, with the metro hub, airport train, and top hotels on the doorstep.
Best for
- Transport
- Shopping
- Convenience
Monastiraki & Psyri
Historic centre
Flea markets, rooftop bars, and buzzing tavernas around the ancient Agora and Ermou street.
Best for
- Nightlife
- Food
- Markets
Koukaki
South slope
A leafy residential neighbourhood by the Acropolis Museum with a walkable, local feel and good value.
Best for
- Value
- Cafés
- Longer stays
Beyond the city
Day trips & excursions from Athens
Athens is a perfect base for ancient sites, seaside temples, and island escapes. Every excursion below can be booked through ShopTravel or your hotel concierge.
Sunset TripCape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon
Half day · 4 hrs70 km southeast · ~1.5 hrs by coach
Drive the scenic Athens Riviera to the marble temple perched above the Aegean, timed for a legendary sunset.
Insider tips
- Go late afternoon for sunset
- Bring a light layer for the breeze
UNESCO World HeritageDelphi Full-Day Tour
Full day · 10 hrs180 km northwest · ~2.5 hrs by coach
Visit the ancient oracle on the slopes of Mount Parnassus — the temple of Apollo, theatre, and museum.
Insider tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes
- The site is uphill — take water
Island DaySaronic Gulf Islands Cruise
Full day · 9 hrsFrom Piraeus port · By boat
Cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina in one day, with time to swim, stroll, and lunch on board.
Insider tips
- Book a window seat early
- Cash for island cafés
Ancient HistoryAncient Corinth & Mycenae
Full day · 9 hrsPeloponnese · ~1.5 hrs by coach
Cross the Corinth Canal to the Lion Gate and beehive tombs of Bronze Age Mycenae and pretty Nafplio.
Insider tips
- Great for history buffs
- Long day — start early
● Limited availability — book now
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Good to know
Athens travel FAQ
Everything Canadian travellers ask before booking
Do Canadians need a visa for Greece?
No. Canadians can visit Greece and the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period on a valid passport. A new ETIAS authorisation is being introduced for Europe, so check the current requirements before you travel.
How long is the flight from Canada to Athens?
Seasonal direct flights from Toronto to Athens (ATH) take about 9h 30m. Connecting flights via European hubs run year-round from most Canadian cities.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
April–June and September–October are ideal — warm, clear, and comfortable for sightseeing. July and August are very hot and busy, while winter is mild, quiet, and cheapest.
Is Athens easy to get around?
Yes. The historic centre is compact and walkable, and a clean, inexpensive metro connects Syntagma to the airport and the port of Piraeus.
What currency is used in Greece?
The euro (EUR). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it's handy to carry small cash for markets, tavernas, and tips.
Do I need travel insurance?
It's strongly recommended. Canadian provincial health plans don't cover medical care abroad, and comprehensive insurance protects against cancellations too.
How many days do I need in Athens?
Three to four days covers the Acropolis, museums, and old-town neighbourhoods. A 7-night stay leaves plenty of time for day trips like Delphi, Cape Sounion, or the Saronic islands.
Can I book excursions through ShopTravel?
Yes — you can add day trips such as Cape Sounion at sunset or the Saronic Gulf islands cruise to your trip at checkout.