Attica Travel Guide

Explore the best of Attica, Greece with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, best places to stay, must-try food and drink, and more.


Introduction to Attica

Attica is a beautiful region located in Central Greece. It is one of the most visited destinations in Greece, thanks to its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and bustling towns and cities. As the centre of ancient Athens, Attica has an incredible cultural legacy, as well as a wealth of natural attractions and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Attica

Attica has countless attractions and sights to see. Here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Acropolis of Athens
  • Ancient Agora of Athens
  • National Archaeological Museum of Athens
  • Museum of Cycladic Art
  • Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Erechtheion.
  • Theater of Dionysus
  • Herod Atticus Odeon
  • First Cemetery of Athens

Natural Attractions of Attica: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Parnitha
  • Vouliagmeni Lake
  • Sounio National Park
  • Aegina Island
  • Marathon Lake
  • Hymettus Mountain.
  • Pendeli Mountain
  • Mesogeia

Hiking/Biking Routes of Attica

Attica is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of hiking and biking trails for all levels of fitness and experience. Here are some popular routes:

  • Mt. Parnitha Hiking Trail
  • Marathon Lake Hiking Trail
  • Hymettus Mountain Hiking Trail
  • Pendeli Mountain Trail
  • Vouliagmeni to Varkiza Coastal Bike Route
  • Athens Historic Center Bike Tour

Best Things to Do in Attica: Activities and Tours

Attica offers an array of activities and tours to suit all interests and ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Attica:

  • Visit the Acropolis Museum
  • Discover vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market
  • Hike along the Attica coastline to Cape Sounion
  • Explore Plaka, the oldest neighbourhood in Athens
  • Visit the Church of Saint George in Oropos
  • Boat tour around Aegina island

Week-Long Itinerary for Attica

Here is a week-long itinerary for Attica:

Day 1: Visit the Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum Day 2: Explore the vibrant neighbourhood of Plaka Day 3: Hike to Cape Sounion for stunning views of the Aegean Sea Day 4: Day trip to Aegina Island Day 5: Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens and the Museum of Cycladic Art Day 6: Discover the Monastiraki Flea Market and the historic Athens Central Market Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day at Vouliagmeni Beach and Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Attica

Attica has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a wealth of delicious local specialties to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Souvlaki
  • Moussaka
  • Dolmades
  • Spanakopita
  • Fava
  • Taramasalata
  • Gyros

Local Beverages

  • Ouzo
  • Tsipouro
  • Retsina
  • Metaxa
  • Greek Wine

Where to Stay in Attica: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Attica offers a wide range of accommodation options, from high-end hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some great options:

  • Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens
  • Electra Palace Athens
  • The Margi, Vouliagmeni
  • Airotel Parthenon, Athens
  • Villa Veneziano, Sounio
  • Arion Hotel, Aegina

What to Buy in Attica: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Attica offers a wealth of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some top picks:

  • Olive Oil
  • Traditional Greek Ceramics or Pottery
  • Local wines and spirits
  • Greek Honey
  • Hand-made soaps and cosmetics

Local Culture and Customs of Attica

Attica has a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped over centuries of Greek history and mythology. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, which include:

  • Dress appropriately for religious sites and ceremonies
  • Be respectful of local customs and cultures
  • Keep noise levels down, especially in residential areas

Best Time to Visit Attica

The best time to visit Attica is during the months of April to June and September to October, as the weather is mild and comfortable. The peak tourist season is during the summer months of July and August, when the temperature can rise to over 30°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Attica

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to help you navigate Attica:

Do:

  • Visit the Acropolis of Athens
  • Try traditional Greek cuisine
  • Learn some basic Greek phrases
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Ignore dress codes for religious sites and ceremonies
  • Drink tap water
  • Rent a motorcycle or ATV without proper licensing

Safety and Health

Attica is generally a safe destination with a low crime rate. However, visitors should always exercise caution, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be aware of pickpockets. The tap water in Attica is not potable, so it is best to drink bottled water.

Getting to Attica: Transportation Options and Logistics

Attica is easily accessible by air, bus or car. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Attica

  • Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH)

Bus Stations Near Attica

  • Athens Central Bus Station

Other Options

  • Ferry from nearby islands

How to Get Around in Attica

Attica has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, metro, trolleys and taxis. Hiring a car is also a good option for those who want to explore more remote parts of the region.

Where to Go Next from Attica: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Attica is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations and taking day trips. Here are some places to consider:

  • Delphi
  • Corinth
  • Hydra Island
  • Mycenae
  • Nafplio

Conclusion

Attica is a must-visit destination for those seeking rich history, incredible natural beauty and warm hospitality. We hope our comprehensive guide has helped you plan the ultimate Attica experience. Whether you are interested in hiking, exploring ancient ruins or simply soaking up the local culture, Attica has something for everyone.