The Cost of Living in Athens: What You Need to Know

Athens, the capital city of Greece, holds a special place in history and culture. It is famous for its ancient ruins, including the Acropolis and the Parthenon, delightful food, lively nightlife, and vibrant street markets. If you are planning to relocate to Athens or wondering what it takes to live in the city, you need to know about the cost of living. With that in mind, this article will provide you with everything that you need to know about the cost of living in Athens.

Housing Expenses in Athens

The cost of accommodation is one of the significant expenses you need to cater to when living in Athens. Generally, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment within the city center ranges from €400-€700 per month. For a three-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay around €800 to €1500 per month. However, prices tend to vary depending on the location, the size of the apartment, and other factors like whether the house has been recently renovated.If you are planning to buy a house in Athens, the cost of an apartment ranges from €1300 to €2000 per square meter, with older properties cost slightly lower. However, the price can go up to €5000 per square meter if you are looking for newly built properties or ones located in the city’s prime location.

Food and Groceries Expenses in Athens

Athens is known for its sumptuous gastronomy scene, and luckily, the city offers affordable and delicious food options. A meal in an average restaurant will cost you around €10 per person, while street food costs around €3 to €5. If you are looking to cook your meals at home, groceries for one week cost between €35 and €50, depending on your dietary preference and lifestyle.

Transportation Expenses in Athens

Athens’s public transport system consists of metro, buses, and trams, and it is efficient and affordable. A one-way ticket costs around €1.50, while a monthly pass costs €30 to €50, depending on the length of the journey. However, Athens is relatively small, and it is easy to navigate the city center by foot or bike, which is a cheaper option.

Utility Expenses in Athens

The cost of utilities like water, gas, and electricity is generally lower in Athens compared to other EU cities. One person can expect to pay around €70 to €100 monthly for electricity, water, and gas bills. However, this can vary depending on the size of the apartment, the heating system, and the usage.

Leisure Expenses in Athens

Athens has a lively nightlife and cultural scene, with plenty of affordable options. You can go out to a club with €10-€15 entrance fee, or a coffee costs €3 to €4. Strolling down the city’s vibrant streets, visiting museums, and historical sites can also be an enjoyable and affordable way to spend your downtime.

The Bottom Line

Athens is a beautiful city that offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost. However, the cost of living in Athens can vary depending on your housing, food, transportation, utility, and leisure preferences. By comparing costs, you can determine how much it will cost you to live comfortably in Athens.Overall, the cost of living in Athens is lower compared to other EU cities, and you can enjoy all the benefits of living in this beautiful city while still leading a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. If you are planning to relocate to Athens, this guide provides you with vital information to plan your budget and live comfortably in the city.

The Cost of Living in Athens: What You Need to Know

Athens, the capital of Greece, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a rich history, stunning ancient ruins, a vibrant culture, and a lively nightlife. Athens can be an affordable holiday destination, but like any major city, it has its pricier areas.

If you’re planning a trip to Athens, use this insider’s guide to help you make the most of your Athens travel budget.

Local Attractions

Athens is best known for its ancient landmarks, but it has tons of modern attractions that are worth seeing too.

One of the top sites to check out is the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of several ancient structures, including the Parthenon temple and the Erechtheion. It can get quite busy, so if you want to skip the crowds and take some breathtaking Instagram photos, then reserve your tickets ahead of time.

Another must-visit destination is the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts, including swords, pottery, and sculptures.

Other popular sites in Athens include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

Dining Spots

Greek food is known for its freshness and simplicity, and Athens is home to some of the best Greek restaurants in the world.

For a quick, cheap bite, try out a gyro stand or a souvlaki spot, which serve up mouth-watering meat skewers served with sides like tzatziki, hummus, and pita bread.

For a fine-dining experience, check out Funky Gourmet, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern take on Greek cuisine.

For something more casual, head to Klimataria, a traditional Greek restaurant that has served up local dishes since 1927. It’s a great spot to try out saganaki, a fried cheese dish that’s popular in Greece.

Cultural Experiences

Athens is a city that is steeped in ancient mythology and culture. To experience the city’s vibrant history, be sure not to miss the following.

Take a walking tour of the Plaka neighborhood, a historic district located at the base of the Acropolis. Its streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, and it’s an excellent spot to grab a coffee or check out local shops.

Attend a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a historic amphitheater that was built in 161 AD. Every summer, it hosts a festival of music, dance, and theater performances.

Visit the Benaki Museum to see an extensive collection of Greek art and artifacts. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Greek history and culture.

Local History

Athens has a long and rich history that dates back to antiquity. The city has been inhabited by various different cultures, including the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, and the Ottomans.

One of the best places to learn about local history is the Athens War Museum, which provides an overview of Greece’s military history.

Another spot to check out is the Byzantine and Christian Museum, which has an extensive collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to get off the tourist trail and experience Athens like a local, then be sure to check out these hidden gems.

Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, a massive library and cultural center located just south of central Athens. It’s a great spot to read, relax, and catch cultural performances.

Take a day trip to the island of Aegina, which is located just a short ferry ride from Athens. It has a beautiful coastline, charming villages, and some of the best pistachios in the world.

Lastly, be sure to check out the Exarcheia neighborhood, a bohemian district in central Athens that is known for its vibrant street art and alternative culture.

Conclusion

Athens is a city that has something to offer every visitor, regardless of their budget. With its rich history, stunning landmarks, and delicious food scene, it’s a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. By following this insider’s guide, you can make sure you get the most out of your Athens experience, without breaking the bank.