While Athens is a very beautiful and popular tourist destination in the summer, temperatures can get pretty high. So, knowing that, here are a few activities that you can do in Athens in the summer to cool off and enjoy this incredible city!
Cool off with a freddo or frappe
Trying a freddo cappuccino or espresso or a frappe when you visit Athens is a must. Nobody does iced coffee quite like the Greeks, and it’s an excellent way to cool down after sightseeing the city. This cold, frothy caffeine creation is a local staple, something that Athenians start their morning off with every day. A freddo is an iced espresso with milk foam, and a frappe is coffee blended with sugar, milk and ice until smooth. Available on almost every corner in the city, you can get a freddo espresso for as little as 1.5€.
Enjoy the air-conditioned museums
There’s no shortage of museums in the Greek capital, and visiting a few is a great way to escape the heat and learn more about the city’s history and culture. You’ll find museums dedicated to Greek and international art, like the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Benaki Museum, archaeological museums like the Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum, and many more. Not only is visiting a museum a great way to dive deep into the story of Athens, but you’ll also stay nice and cool inside before venturing out again to explore the city!
Go on an island day trip…
Who says you have to go to Santorini or Mykonos to experience the Greek islands? There are so many right under your nose that will give you a taste of the island life! Hydra and Aegina are popular destinations in the Saronic Gulf that attract visitors for their beautiful beaches and villages, in addition to delicious Greek cuisine and unbeatable views. Other islands that can be reached by high-speed boat relatively quickly for amazing day trips are Poros, Angistri, and Spetses. One of the most fun things to do in Athens in the summer is island hopping, to enjoy the vibe and unique culture of each picturesque place!
…or visit the nearby beaches
If you’re not up for leaving the mainland, there are several other opportunities to cool off in the Aegean. The Attica Peninsula has several popular beaches that stretch along the southern and northeastern coasts, giving city dwellers a place to go when temperatures are scorching. Varkiza, Vouliagmeni, Porto Rafti, and Loutsa all offer pristine coastlines within 30 kilometers of Athens. And if you want to go a bit further, you can’t miss Cape Sounion or Schinias. Also, these are two great options that aren’t too far and can be reached by public transportation.
Catch an outdoor movie
The Athens Open Air Festival runs until the end of August and is an event that Athenians look forward to every summer. Screenings of a variety of cinematic favorites take place in iconic sites around the city like the Roman Agora, Mount Lycabettus, and the Byzantine and Christian Museum. This open event is a great way to experience Athens in the summer just like a local!
See more: A Quick List of the 8 Best Free Things to Do in Athens
6 of the Top Museums in Athens that Should be on Your List
These Essential Greek Dishes are Must Eats in Athens
Make the most of your stay in Athens this summer and come and stay with Olala Homes!