The Biggest Tourist Traps in Athens
- Georgia Louise
- Mar 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 11
Athens has over 7 million visitors a year. Known for its deep-rooted history, the oldest city in the world has come a long way. It is now an extremely popular city in its own right and not just a place for a layover, before flying to visit one of the Greek islands. Over the years, Athens has really adapted to become a versatile city for everyone, with its archaelogical sites, to its roof top bars, local tavernas with traditional greek music, and its bustling shops. I have been lucky enough to visit Athens numerous times, with family, friends and even on solo trips. So naturally, I have acquired a bit of knowledge of some tourists traps in the city.
Athens is a beautiful city. But like any other city in the world, it attracts tourists, aAnd tourists attract scammers. Athens is one of the safest places you can travel, to, with a super low crime rate but nonetheless, temptation can be high, and problems do occur. These are just a few things to know before you go, but do not worry, you will love Athens so much!!!!! It truly is an amazing place to travel to.
Plaka is beautiful and well worth the visit. BUT you can find the same items for sale in the Monistiraki flea market for a fraction of the price. Some of the same bracelets that are being sold in the flea market for 1-2 euros are being sold n Plaka for as much as 10 euros
The changing of the guard isn’t necessarily a tourist trap, but can be a distraction for tourists whilst people are lurking around. See that you keep your belongings on your front, maybe use a cross body bag, putting your items safely away, and you’ll be fine to enjoy the ceremony. The key here is to just be aware. And remember, at the end of the ceremony do not clap PLEASE!
There are no official photographers in touristy streets like Monistiraki or Ermou Street. If you are approached be careful as they will give you a price, then try to over charge you and demand you pay them more money. This of course creates a distraction and can leave you vulnerable. You can get some lovely photos around Athens simply by taking them yourself or asking a tour guide or perhaps another tourist - there is no need to pay for photos!
Taxis - make sure the driver starts the meter the second your journey begins, or set a flat rate before you go. Most taxi’s from the airport have a flat rate (you can always check the uber app for a rough price guide, even if you prefer to use a local taxi service). Make it known that you know the flat rate price.
Guides by the Acropolis. If you fancy a guided tour, try and book directly with a travel company such as Viator. Alternatively book at the box office or download a free audio guide online. Alternatively visit the museum beforehand so you have some knowledge of what you are looking at before you enter the site You will find unregistered tour guides outside of the Acropolis, and I have seen tourists paying for these tours, but I am not sure if the tours are legitimate or if they are competitively priced. If you have ever got one of these private guides from the bottom of the Acropolis hill, then send me a message and let me know your experience.
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