This is especially true when you can leave the chilly British weather behind and enjoy the sunshine, clear skies and waterfront breezes.
A recent study by the experts at Preply ranked a range of top European cities according to how walkable they are. Analysing the distance and number of steps between popular attractions in each location, the Spanish city of Seville took first place.
Venice, Porto and Florence came close behind, with Athens being the only Greek city to make the top 10. Home to some of the world’s most famous attractions including the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus and the Ancient Agora, it’s easy to see why the ancient city scored so highly.
According to further data on tourlane.de, travellers will find a captivating attraction to explore in Athens once every 1.8 miles, meaning it takes less than 40 minutes to cross the city.
Not too far away from these historic monuments, visitors will also find thriving urban neighbourhoods like Monastiraki, Psiri, Koukaki, Thissio, Gazi and many more.
One of Athens’ most iconic landmarks is the Parthenon, a stunning temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, which has graced the Acropolis since the fifth century.
To preserve the historic grandeur of this ancient site, the Acropolis has implemented a unique ticketing system aimed at managing visitor numbers and preventing overcrowding, with a daily cap of 20,000 people established to protect this cultural treasure.
For those planning to explore the city on foot, experts suggest that early morning or late afternoon are the best times to arrive, allowing guests to bypass long lines and avoid the heaviest crowds.
Visitors are often overwhelmed by the historic significance of the site, combined with its incredible views. One of many five-star reviews on Tripadvisor called it “an amazing place to visit, the history surrounding Parthenon is staggering, the temple has remarkably stood the test of time for us to get a glimpse of how roman lived all the centuries ago”.
Just below the Acropolis lies Plaka, a charming hillside neighbourhood that offers a village-like atmosphere that is perfect for leisurely exploration on foot.
Its cobbled streets are lined with cafes and tavernas, providing opportunities for al fresco dining and souvenir shopping late into the night. Together, the Acropolis and Plaka encapsulate the beauty and history of Athens, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
For those looking to enjoy a spot of retail therapy, the Ermou Pedestrian Street is a must-visit. Stretching from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki, this bustling thoroughfare offers a mix of shops and cafés fitted along the pedestrian-friendly area of the city.
Athens is also home to some incredibly beautiful waterfront promenades and a beach, where visitors can enjoy taking a slow stroll along the coast.
With its rich history and inviting walking routes, Athens stands out as a top destination for those seeking to explore on foot.