Athens in autumn offers you the best of both worlds. It’s still warm enough to swim along the Athens Riviera. But you can also relish the city’s downtown delights and archaeological sites without the heat and crowds.
It’s a dilemma shared by few other European capitals in autumn: city or beach? Many Athenians prefer to escape to the islands during the milder, quieter months of September and October. And we keep hitting the beaches of the Athens Riviera until November. Though the weather in Athens in autumn can be a mixed bag, outdoor life still goes strong. There’s a spirit of renewal in the air as the city shakes off its summer haze, making it a perfect time of year to tap into Athens’ urban culture. You can explore downtown neighbourhoods on foot; dive into exciting cultural festivals; or set off on outdoor adventures not far from the city. Here are some of our favourite autumn pastimes to get you started.
Great things to do in Athens in September
Go stargazing at the National Observatory of Athens on the wooded Hill of the Nymphs, and learn about the Greek myths hidden in the night sky.
Experience a magnificent concert at the 2,000 year-old Odeon of Herodes Atticus, beneath the Acropolis, as Athens’ summer festival season draws to a close.
Embark on an art walk around the cultured neighbourhoods of Thissio and Ano-Petralona and tick off galleries, museums and some historic lookouts along the way.
Boost your Instagram profile at one of Athens’ scenic hilltops Lycabettus, Philopappou, or the Pnyx. All provide brilliant vantage points for photographing the city skyline, especially at sunset.
If you’re here in mid-September, pop over to Aegina for the island’s annual pistachio festival, Fistiki Fest. Delicious pistachio products are laid out along the harbour and there are concerts and gastronomy events too.
Join the locals by:
Atoning for your summer excesses with a jog along one of the city’s scenic running routes, sightseeing as you go.
Plan your trip around:
Taste of Athens—Sample signature dishes from some of the capital’s most exciting restaurants at this annual food festival.
Athens International Film Festival—Catch some of the year’s hottest indie film releases at cinemas around the capital, screened over a fortnight in late September.
