Packed with history, delicious food and cultural highlights, the Greek capital has long been one of the world’s most popular city breaks – but not in the winter it seems.
Time Out has been crowned Athens the most underrated winter European city break this week, saying that the best time of year to visit the ancient metropolis is during the coldest months of the year.
The UNESCO World Heritage site city welcomes up to 7 million tourists each year thanks to its world famous 5th century Acropolis, Parthenon temple, bustling shops and host of museums.
However, although the Greek city is typically bursting with tourists in the summer, it’s rarely busy during when temperatures drop.
One of Time Out’s writers, John Ovans, describes how in winter Athens ‘never goes into full hibernation mode’.
He suggests that despite it not being peak season, there is still plenty for visitors to enjoy in the city.
And the expert says the temperatures during winter rarely disappoint either.
Packed with ancient history, including the 5th century Acropolis (pictured), Athens commands around 7 million visitors every year, but tourist numbers are much lower in winter
He explains: ‘On a good winter day you might get up to the high teens, or even low 20s on rare extra sunny occasions’.
Athens is relatively cheap to fly to during the winter season, too. Direct flights from London for a weekend in December can come in at around £76, according to SkyScanner.
A pint of beer is reasonable too, usually priced at around €5 (£4.40), according to Numbeo.
What’s more, Athens was also recently named the top city for a car-free break. Hospitality company Accor compiled data on cities across the continent.
The brand analysed factors including how much of the centre is dominated by pedestrians, the diversity and affordability of public transport, and how close the attractions are.
The Greek capital scored the highest with 99.75 out of 100 overall for being easily explored without a car.
While the colder months aren’t quite as balmy as Athens in summer, visitors can still expect blue skies and highs of the low 20s, says Time Out travel expert John Ovans
It impressed with its pedestrian belt that circles around the Acropolis.
Athens’ neighbourhoods like Plaka, Monastiraki and Psyrri are all easily reachable from one another by foot.
Meanwhile, the coast is easily reachable by a tram and the airport can be accessed by the metro.
It boasts four major rail hubs and the city scored an impressive 97 per cent for accessibility and comfort.
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