This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Athens. To help you make friends with Athens before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
The legendary city of Athens is the capital of Greece. The city population of Athens during the 2010 census was over 3.1 million people in the central city area, and over 3.7 million in the metropolitan area. Athens can be, in many ways, considered the birthplace of western civilization, and is a city still filled with culture. There have been people living in Athens for over 7,000 years.
Athens can be reached by plane (which is the most common option for travelers, unless you are already in the country), the airport is a bit off the city proper but the public transport will get you easily to the main city area. You can also get to the city via buses, trains, or the ferry which links Athens to some nearby cities. When you're staying in an Athens hostel and traversing the city, it's good to plan ahead. Some places are very well reachable by foot but for others you will need to utilize the public transport system, which is pretty good.
Many travelers visit Athens before or after an island excursion, but the city also offers plenty on its own.
The political aspects of Athens are just a few of the many things to see. The most popular attraction near the government buildings is the hourly changing of the guard. Soldiers dressed in one-of-a-kind outfits march in front of Greece's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. After the changing of the guard, visitors are often offered the opportunity to stand next to a guard for a quick photo. Nearby is the national park, a huge garden that is just one of the many walking and hiking paths that can be found in the center of Athens.
Hostels in Athens cannot really be categorized: there are so many different options, price ranges, and different districts to choose from.
However, the pricing generally will be about 10 US dollars if you choose a cheap single dorm, and upwards from there for twins / doubles and more quality. It's worth researching some before arriving: what do you want to do, and what area should you reserve an Athens hostel room to be close to those things?
When in staying in an Athens hostel, always remember to talk with the staff because they are generally very helpful.
Monastiraki Square, the Heart of the City
One of the most vivid sguares in Athens, Monastiraki Square encompasses strong night life, pleasure,and breathtaking view. In the last years, it is also a major metro station, making it easier for Athenians and tourists to visit plaka, acropolis, but also one of the biggest flea markets on sundays. Surrounded by genuine ouvlaki spots, tavernas, coffe shops, just a few minutes walk by a number of hostels, "furnished" with foutouristic benches, it is an authentic meeting and hanging out spot in the heart of the city.
I highly recommend to visit this square with your hostel mates. Have a look if you can find a hostel in Athens near Monastiraki Square. Very recommended!
Enjoy Athens, you are gonna like it!
Written by local enthusiast for Athens hostels
Miika
