Travel Guide: From New York to Athens

Travel Guide: From New York to Athens

New York to Athens is a popular travel route. Thousands of travelers make this journey annually. This guide will provide essential information on how to make this trip as seamless as possible.

Flight Options

Direct flights from New York (JFK) to Athens (ATH) are available. Major airlines operate this route seasonally, especially during peak travel months. Non-stop flights typically take around 9 to 10 hours.

• Delta Air Lines
• Emirates
• American Airlines

For budget-conscious travelers, indirect flights can be a good option. They may involve one or two stopovers in European hubs such as London, Paris, or Frankfurt.

Best Time to Visit

Athens experiences a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and wet. The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons: spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller.

Travel Costs

The cost of traveling from New York to Athens can vary greatly. Consider these factors:

• Flight tickets: Ranging from $500 to $1500 depending on the season and airline.
• Accommodation: Hosts a wide range from budget hostels ($20 per night) to luxury hotels ($300+ per night).
• Daily expenses: Average expenditure for meals, transport, and entry fees usually range around $50-$100 per day.

Entry Requirements

US citizens can enter Greece for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. It’s wise to check the latest travel advisory and requirements from both US and Greek authorities before departure.

Transportation in Athens

Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, you have several options to reach the city center:

• Metro: Line 3 (Blue Line) takes about 40 minutes to reach Syntagma Square. Cost is approximately €10 for a one-way ticket.
• Airport Bus: Several express buses operate 24/7. The X95 line also heads to Syntagma Square. Tickets cost around €6.
• Taxi: A taxi ride to central Athens costs about €38 during the day and €54 at night.

Key Attractions in Athens

Athens is rich with historical and cultural sights. Some must-visit attractions include:

• Acropolis and Parthenon: This iconic ancient site is a symbol of classical Greece.
• Acropolis Museum: Houses artifacts from the Acropolis.
• Ancient Agora: Once the heart of ancient Athens, it hosts many ruins and the temple of Hephaestus.
• Syntagma Square: The central area known for its grand hotels and the Greek Parliament building.
• Plaka: The old neighborhood filled with narrow streets, shops, and conventional taverns.

Food and Dining

Greek cuisine is renowned for its flavors and freshness. While in Athens, try some traditional dishes:

• Moussaka: Layered eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
• Souvlaki: Grilled meat skewers often served with pita bread.
• Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, and olives dressed with olive oil.
• Baklava: Sweet dessert made of layers of filo pastry, filled with nuts, and soaked in honey.

Local Tips

• Public Transport: Purchase an Athens Transport (OASA) card for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro.
• Opening Hours: Many museums and archaeological sites open around 8 AM and close by 3 PM. Plan accordingly.
• Language: Although Greek is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Day Trips from Athens

Consider exploring beyond Athens for a day:

• Delphi: Ancient sanctuary famous for the Oracle of Delphi. Located about 2.5 hours from Athens.
• Cape Sounion: Site of the Temple of Poseidon, offering stunning sunset views. Roughly a 70 km drive from Athens.
• Hydra Island: A car-free island accessible by a 1.5-hour boat trip from Piraeus port.

Safety and Health

Greece is considered a safe destination for tourists. Basic precautions should still be taken:

• Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for immediate assistance.
• Health Insurance: Carry travel health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.