Use FreeNow for fixed fares, faster pickups, and safer rides in Athens. Most drivers speak basic English. Avoid hailing taxis on the street — these apps work much better. Download them before arriving.
Get FreeNow (iOS) Get FreeNow (Android)5-day pass for unlimited metro bus and tram rides. Available at machines in all major metro stations. Validate before use to avoid fines.
Kerameikos Metro StationThe easiest and cheapest way to get data in Athens is to buy a prepaid SIM from the street vendors near the Omonia metro exits. You’ll find them selling cards for €10–12 with 15–25 GB of data valid for a month. passport needed. You can use the SIM across Greece, including the islands — perfect for staying online while traveling.
Vendors at Omonia SquareFor the best exchange rates in Athens, visit Capital Exchange at 6 Agiou Konstantinou Street, near Omonia Square. Avoid exchanging money at the airport or using ATMs with dynamic currency conversion. It's advisable to bring small bills for use in kiosks and tavernas.
Capital Exchange on Google MapsLook for green cross signs. Many medications are sold without a prescription. Pharmacists usually speak English and can help with minor issues. To find 24/7 pharmacies currently on duty, check this website — it lists them by date and neighborhood. You can translate it into English using your browser.
Find Pharmacies on DutyMany tavernas and kiosks are cash-only. ATMs are widespread but use bank-affiliated ones to avoid high fees. Cards usually accepted in upscale areas like Kolonaki.
Alpha Bank ATM SyntagmaScarce in Athens. Use metro stations or ask at tavernas politely. Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer for smaller venues.
Syntagma Metro StationBook through Ferrysavers.com or at Piraeus Port ticket offices. High-speed ferries to Aegina or Hydra are pricier but faster. Arrive early for boarding.
Piraeus PortRenting a scooter in Athens is cheap and easy — all you need is your passport and a valid driving license from your country. It’s a great way to reach beaches and explore the coast freely. Scooters are available around Plaka and near metro stations. However, avoid driving into the city center due to heavy traffic and chaotic streets. Always ask for a helmet and check if basic insurance is included.
Scooter Rental in PlakaVarvakios Agora for meat, fish, and spices. Open early morning. Cash only. Wear closed shoes and watch for slippery floors.
Varvakios AgoraFree Wi-Fi is available in Syntagma Square, Monastiraki, and other major plazas under the network name “Athens WiFi.” You’ll also find open connections at large metro stations like Syntagma and Omonia. Most cafés such as Mikel, Coffee Island, and Starbucks offer free Wi-Fi — just ask or look for the password inside. Use the WiFi Map app to find nearby networks and passwords shared by other travelers. Always use a VPN if entering personal information.
Syntagma Square on Map Get WiFi Map (iOS) Get WiFi Map (Android)Many small shops close 2–5 PM for siesta, especially in summer. Plan errands early or late. Tavernas and tourist areas stay open.
PlakaPrice: $109.75 USD | Duration: 2 days | Access to 14 major museums and attractions. Includes hop-on-hop-off bus tour for 48 hours. Buy online to skip lines.
Buy iVenture CardPrice: €69 (Adult), €29 (Child 4-12 years) | Duration: 2 days | Access to Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and more. Skip-the-line access. Buy online to skip lines.
Buy Introducing Athens PassPrice: From $91 USD | Duration: 2 days | Access to 21 museums and attractions. Includes hop-on-hop-off bus tour for 48 hours. Buy online to skip lines.
Buy Civitatis Museum Pass