Athens is one of the great cities of Europe and a destination that rewards even a short visit. With a recorded history stretching back 3,000 years, it is the birthplace of democracy, western philosophy and the modern Olympic Games. Our Athens packages from Canada are designed for independent travellers: you get flights + hotels + transfers in a single package, with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Many packages can be extended with island add-ons, giving you Athens as a base before heading out to Santorini, Mykonos or Crete.

Departure airports: most package options depart from Toronto and Montreal, connecting through a European hub to Athens International Airport (ATH). Other Canadian gateways are available using connecting flights. If you do not see your city, please call us as we can price options not shown on our website.

Popular itineraries

A standalone Athens city break works well for travellers with a week or less, giving you time to explore the Acropolis and Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, the National Archaeological Museum, and the neighbourhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki. For longer trips, the most popular extensions are Athens + Santorini (a short domestic flight or ferry), Athens + Mykonos, and Athens + Crete. Guided sightseeing packages are also available for travellers who want a more structured introduction to the city.

Where to stay in Athens (examples)

Hotels in Athens are typically grouped by neighbourhood:

• Plaka/Monastiraki: the historic heart of the city, walkable to the Acropolis and the main archaeological sites. Best for first-time visitors.
• Syntagma: central and convenient, close to the parliament building, metro lines and major shopping.
• Kolonaki: upscale residential neighbourhood, good dining and boutique hotels, on the slopes below Lycabettus Hill.
• Piraeus: the port district, practical for travellers with an early ferry departure to the islands.

Weather and what to expect

Athens has a classic Mediterranean climate. Winters are mild, with average highs around 12 to 15C in January and February. Summers are hot and dry, with average highs reaching 32 to 34C in July and August. The most comfortable seasons for sightseeing are April, May, September and October, when temperatures are warm but not extreme and the main sites are less crowded.

Athens in July and August is busy and hot. If you are combining Athens with island time, many travellers spend two to three nights in Athens and then head to the islands for the warmer, breezier conditions.

Interested in Athens packages from Canada? Call us at 1-800-665-4981 and speak with one of our agents who has been there and can help you find the right hotel and itinerary for your travel dates.