Daily costs per person in euros. Athens is one of Europe's cheapest capitals — incredible value for history, food, and nightlife.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: Euro (€) (1 USD ≈ €0.92)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €15–30 | €60–120 | €180+ | Hostels → boutique hotels → Acropolis-view suites |
| Food | €8–15 | €20–35 | €50+ | Souvlaki & tavernas → meze restaurants → fine dining |
| Transport | €2–5 | €8–15 | €25+ | Metro & walking → taxis/Beat app → day trip transport |
| Activities | €0–10 | €15–30 | €50+ | Free sites & hills → combined ticket → guided tours |
| Drinks | €4–8 | €10–18 | €30+ | Retsina & beer → wine bars → cocktail bars |
| Daily Total | €29–68 | €113–218 | €335+ | $32–74 → $123–237 → $365+ |
Money-saving tips
Combined ticket
The €30 combined ticket covers the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Library, and Kerameikos for 5 days — buying separately would cost €65+. Essential purchase.
Souvlaki everything
A souvlaki pita (€2.50–3.50) is a full meal — grilled meat, tomato, onion, tzatziki, chips, wrapped in pita. Kostas, Bairaktaris, and O Thanasis are the holy trinity.
Free Sundays
Most state museums and archaeological sites are free on the first Sunday of the month from November to March, plus certain national holidays. Check dates before your trip.
Water refill
Athens tap water is safe and comes from mountain reservoirs. Refill at water fountains (vrysaki) throughout the city. Bottled water at tourist spots costs €1.50–3.
Metro deals
A 5-day tourist ticket costs €9 for unlimited metro, bus, and tram. Single tickets are €1.20. The metro doubles as a museum — Syntagma and Acropoli stations display archaeological finds.
Riviera beaches
Free public beaches along the Athens coast tram line — Glyfada, Voula, Varkiza. No need for expensive island ferries for a beach day.
