Traveling in a Group to Athens: Discover the City of the Gods
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, offering a unique experience for group travel. With its combination of archaeological sites, fascinating museums, and a vibrant culinary scene, Athens is the perfect destination for an unforgettable group journey. In this article, we will guide you through must-do activities, options for Citycard Pass for groups, places to dine as a group, and the best accommodation options to fully enjoy your adventure in Athens.
Group-Friendly Activities in Athens
The Acropolis is the most iconic symbol of Athens and a perfect starting point for your journey. Organize a guided tour for your group and explore the impressive ancient temples such as the Parthenon and the Erechtheion. The history and architecture will leave you in awe.
Just at the foot of the Acropolis, you will find the Acropolis Museum. This world-class museum houses artifacts and sculptures found on the Acropolis. An experienced guide can make the visit even more enriching.
Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens, the center of political and commercial life in the ancient city. Highlights include the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus. A tour of this historical site will transport you back in time.
Plaka is the most picturesque neighborhood in Athens, with cobblestone streets, neoclassical houses, and traditional tavernas. A walk through Plaka is a charming experience to enjoy as a group.
You cannot visit Athens without savoring delicious Greek cuisine. Book a group gastronomic tour and taste the most authentic dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.
Citycard pass for groups in Athens
If you are planning a group trip to Athens and want to make the most of your experience while saving money and time, the Athens City Pass for groups is an invaluable tool. This pass not only grants you access to some of the city’s most iconic attractions but also makes getting around Athens easier and allows you to skip the long lines at crowded tourist spots. Below, we provide a more detailed description of this pass and how it can enhance your group journey.
Free Access to Major Attractions: The Athens City Pass provides you with free access to a selection of the city’s major attractions. This includes iconic places such as the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, and other historical museums and sites. For groups, this benefit is especially useful, as it allows for group visits without worrying about individual entrance costs.
Unlimited Public Transportation: The pass also includes unlimited access to Athens’ public transportation system, which comprises buses, trams, the metro, and trolleybuses. This is essential for groups, as it ensures an efficient and cost-effective way to move around the city, facilitating the coordination of daily activities.
Skip the Lines: One of the major advantages of the Athens City Pass is the ability to skip the long lines at popular tourist attractions. This is particularly beneficial for groups, as it streamlines the visit and allows you to make the most of your available time. Instead of waiting in line, your group can enter directly and start exploring.
Flexibility in Duration: The pass is available in different durations, allowing you to choose the option that best suits the length of your stay in Athens. This is convenient for groups with varying travel plans. You can opt for a 24-hour pass, 48-hour pass, or even a full week pass.
How to Obtain the Athens City Pass for Groups: To acquire the Athens City Pass for your group, you can do so online before your trip or at designated outlets in the city. It’s important to note that due to demand, it’s advisable to reserve your passes in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season or with a large group.
Tips for Using the Athens City Pass in a Group: Plan Your Visits in Advance: With an Athens City Pass in hand, it’s essential to plan your days in Athens in advance. Decide which attractions you want to visit and organize schedules to avoid crowds.
Coordination in Public Transportation: Make the most of unlimited access to public transportation. Ensure you have predetermined meeting times and meeting points to prevent the group from getting separated.
Keep Your Passes Safe: The passes are valuable, so make sure to keep them in a secure place. Consider carrying a digital copy as a backup in case of loss.
Take Advantage of Additional Benefits: Don’t forget to enjoy the additional benefits that the pass offers, such as discounts on tours and extra activities in Athens.
Group-Friendly Lodging Options in Athens
When organizing a group trip to Athens, selecting the right accommodation is essential for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Athens boasts a variety of lodging options that cater to groups of different sizes and budgets. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore some excellent choices for group-friendly accommodations in the Greek capital, along with recommendations to enhance your group experience.
Airbnb Apartments
Renting apartments through Airbnb is a versatile and popular option for group travel. Athens offers numerous spacious apartments that can comfortably accommodate groups of varying sizes. Many of these apartments come equipped with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas, providing ample space for group members to relax and socialize.
Group-Friendly Hotels
Several hotels in Athens offer rooms and suites designed specifically for larger groups, making them a convenient choice for group travelers. Look for hotels that provide family rooms or suites with multiple beds or adjoining rooms to ensure everyone in your group has a comfortable stay.
Hostels
Hostels are budget-friendly options that cater to group travelers, offering dormitory-style rooms with multiple beds. Athens has a variety of hostels with clean and comfortable accommodations suitable for group stays. Many hostels also have communal areas where group members can socialize and plan their adventures.
Vacation Rentals and Villas
For larger groups or those seeking more privacy and luxury, vacation rentals and villas located on the outskirts of Athens are an excellent choice. These properties often come with private pools, spacious living areas, and fully-equipped kitchens, providing a comfortable and exclusive experience for your group.
Student Dormitories
If you’re traveling with a student group or on a tight budget, Athens has student dormitories that offer affordable accommodations during the summer months when many students are away. While the amenities may be basic, this option can be a cost-effective choice for groups.
Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments provide a blend of hotel-like services with the comforts of home. They often come with fully-equipped kitchens, housekeeping services, and amenities like fitness centers and laundry facilities. These are ideal for groups looking for convenience and independence.
Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses
Boutique hotels and guesthouses are distinct types of accommodations known for offering personalized and exceptional lodging experiences, setting them apart from larger, standardized hotels.
Electra Metropolis Athens: This luxury boutique hotel blends classic elegance with contemporary design. It is situated in the heart of Athens, close to Syntagma Square and the Acropolis. They offer spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city.
Coco-Mat Hotel Athens: This hotel focuses on sustainability and comfort. Rooms are equipped with Coco-Mat mattresses, handmade with natural materials. It’s located in the lively Kolonaki district, known for its nightlife and exclusive shops.
New Hotel: Designed by the renowned Brazilian architect Campana, the New Hotel is an elegant and contemporary establishment with an artistic touch. It is located near Syntagma Square and offers a unique experience in terms of design and hospitality.
AVA Hotel and Suites: This boutique hotel is situated in Plaka, one of Athens’ most charming neighborhoods, just beneath the Acropolis. They provide spacious and comfortable suites with views of the city or the Acropolis. It’s a perfect place for groups wanting to be close to historic attractions.
Adrian Hotel: Another charming hotel in the Plaka neighborhood, the Adrian Hotel offers panoramic views of the Acropolis from its rooftop terrace. The rooms are comfortable and stylish, and its location is ideal for exploring Athens on foot.
AthensWas Hotel: This design hotel is located right across from the Temple of Olympian Zeus and a short walk from the Acropolis. The rooms have a modern and elegant style, and the hotel’s restaurant offers excellent dining options.
A for Athens: Situated in Monastiraki, this boutique hotel offers panoramic views of the Acropolis and Monastiraki Square from its rooftop terrace. It’s an ideal place for groups looking to explore the lively nightlife and flea market of Monastiraki.
Regardless of your group’s size or preferences, Athens offers a diverse range of lodging options to make your trip memorable. When booking accommodations, be sure to plan ahead, communicate your group’s needs, and consider any special requirements or requests. With the right choice of lodging, your group can enjoy the rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality of Athens to the fullest.
Group Dining Experiences in Athens
Greece is a top culinary destination, and savoring its traditional cuisine is an essential part of any journey. Dining in groups in Greece is not only a delight for the palate but also a unique social and cultural experience. Here, we present a list of places for group dining in Greece, where you can enjoy authentic Mediterranean flavors in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Traditional Tavernas
Greek tavernas are ideal places for group dining. These traditional restaurants offer a wide variety of homemade and authentic Greek dishes and often have a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Some dishes you must try at tavernas include:
Moussak: This iconic dish layers eggplant, minced meat, tomato sauce, and béchamel sauce. It’s a indulgent delight that everyone in the group will enjoy.
Souvlaki: Souvlaki consists of grilled meat skewers (usually pork or chicken) served with pita, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. They are perfect for sharing in a group.
Horiatiki Salata (Greek Salad): A classic salad that combines tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions, feta cheese, and olive oil. It’s a fresh and healthy side dish.
Saganaki: This fried cheese appetizer is a crispy and savory treat. It’s served with a squeeze of lemon and is perfect for sharing among friends.
Baklava: For dessert, you can’t miss baklava, a pastry filled with nuts and almonds, soaked in honey syrup. It’s sweet and delicious.
Seafood Restaurants by the Sea
If you’re near the Greek coast, consider visiting a seafood restaurant by the sea. Greece is known for its fresh fish and seafood, and these places offer a unique culinary experience.
Psarotaverna (Fish Tavern): Here, you can enjoy a variety of fresh fish and seafood prepared simply but deliciously. Try the grilled fish or grilled squid.
Mezedopolio: These restaurants specialize in mezes, which are Greek appetizers. They are ideal for groups wanting to sample a wide variety of dishes. Order a selection of mezes and share.
Street Food
Street food is an essential part of Greek culinary culture and an excellent option for groups looking to try a variety of flavors in an informal setting.
Gyros: Gyros is a type of Greek kebab, with grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and tzatziki sauce. They are perfect for a quick group meal.
Koulouri: These are sesame-seeded bread rings often found at street food stalls. They are ideal for a quick snack or a light breakfast for your group.
Restaurants with Panoramic Views
Greece boasts many restaurants with stunning panoramic views, especially on the islands. These places are perfect for special group dinners.
Restaurant 360 in Santorini: This restaurant offers spectacular views of the sunset in Santorini. Enjoy gourmet cuisine while gazing at the horizon.
Athenian Yacht Club in Athens: If you visit the capital, this restaurant offers views of the Mikrolimano harbor and the Aegean Sea. It’s perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
Restaurants with Live Entertainment
Some restaurants in Greece offer live entertainment, such as traditional music or folk dances. These places are great for groups looking for a livelier experience.
Daphne’s Tavern in Corfu: This restaurant offers traditional Greek nights with live music and dancing. It’s a fun and authentic experience.
Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani in Athens: In addition to its excellent food, this place sometimes features live performances, such as traditional music and dances.
In Greece, food is more than a necessity; it’s a celebration of culture and friendship. Whether in a traditional taverna, a seaside restaurant, or enjoying street food, the Greek culinary experience is a journey in itself that’s worth sharing with friends and loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Conclusion on group travel to Athens
Traveling to Athens is an incredible adventure, and doing so in a group can make it even more rewarding. The shared experiences, increased safety, cost-efficiency, diverse perspectives, and enhanced cultural exchange opportunities all contribute to a memorable trip. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying delicious Greek cuisine, or simply strolling through charming neighborhoods, Athens has something to offer every traveler. So, when planning your next adventure, consider gathering a group of friends or family and embark on a journey to Athens, where you can create lasting memories together. Traveling in a group to Athens is not just a vacation; it’s a shared adventure that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come.
