With average daily temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and fewer crowds, Greece's shoulder season from mid-September to October is a budget backpacker’s paradise.
Flying into Greece is most commonly done via Athens International Airport (ATH), with budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air offering tickets from major European cities for as low as €30 ($32) one way. Once in Athens, you can reach the city center by taking the X95 bus for €6 ($6.40), which runs every 30 minutes and takes about 40 minutes to Syntagma Square.
When exploring Athens, consider using the Metro system — a ticket costs just €1.20 ($1.28) and covers a 90-minute ride across the system. If you plan to hop around the city frequently, buy a 5-day ticket for €9 ($9.60). For islands like Santorini or Mykonos, ferries are an affordable option; a one-way ticket from Piraeus to Santorini costs about €39 ($41). To save even more, book your ferry tickets in advance on websites like Ferryhopper.
For budget-friendly accommodations in Athens, consider staying in the vibrant neighborhood of Psiri. Hostels like City Circus Athens offer dorm rooms starting at €23 ($25) per night, providing a lively atmosphere and easy access to local bars and restaurants. Alternatively, in Santorini, check out the budget-friendly Anemomilos Hotel, with prices around €65 ($69) for a double room in the off-peak season.
In addition, look into Airbnb options in areas like Kifisia or Kifisia's nearby suburbs for private rooms starting at €30 ($32) a night. If you’re venturing to Crete, Chania Old Town boasts numerous affordable guesthouses, such as Kydon Hotel, offering rooms from €50 ($54) a night. This area provides easy access to beaches and local markets.
Greece is known for its delicious and affordable food. If you’re in Athens, don’t miss the chance to grab a souvlaki from Kostas, located on 5 Mitropoleos Street, where you can enjoy a tasty, filling meal for around €3.50 ($3.75). For a traditional taverna experience, head to Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani, where a platter of various meats and cheeses could cost approximately €15 ($16), perfect for sharing.
On the islands, fresh seafood is a must. At Ammoudi Bay in Santorini, try a grilled octopus for about €15 ($16), or opt for the catch of the day at a local taverna, usually priced around €20 ($21.50). Don’t forget to sample some local wines — a glass of Assyrtiko will generally cost around €5 ($5.35). In Mykonos, visit the famous little Venice area where bars offer happy hour deals, making cocktails around €6 ($6.40) during the evenings.
During the shoulder season, you can explore Greece’s rich history with fewer tourists. In Athens, visit the Acropolis, where entry is €12 ($13) and includes access to the Acropolis Museum. Consider going in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and smaller crowds. Another great spot is the Ancient Agora, where a ticket costs €8 ($8.50) and is perfect for a leisurely stroll among historical ruins.
On the islands, hiking the Fira to Oia Trail in Santorini is a must. This 10 km (6.2 miles) hike offers breathtaking views of the caldera and takes around 2-3 hours. The best part? It’s completely free! If you’re in Crete, don’t miss the Samaria Gorge hike, costing €5 ($5.35) for entrance, where you can enjoy majestic scenery over a 16 km (9.9 miles) trek.
Traveling during the shoulder season can bring you significant cost savings, but there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| X95 Bus (Athens Airport to City Center) | €6 ($6.40) | 40-minute ride to Syntagma Square |
| Metro Ticket (90 minutes) | €1.20 ($1.28) | Great for getting around Athens |
| Souvlaki at Kostas | €3.50 ($3.75) | Delicious, filling street food |
| Acropolis Entry Fee | €12 ($13) | Includes the Acropolis Museum |
| Hiking Samaria Gorge Entry Fee | €5 ($5.35) | Beautiful, scenic hike in Crete |
| Grilled Octopus in Santorini | €15 ($16) | A must-try seafood dish |
| Assyrtiko Wine Glass | €5 ($5.35) | Enjoy a taste of local wines |
The best time to travel to Greece as a budget backpacker is during the shoulder season, from mid-September to October. This period offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and significant discounts on accommodations and flights, making it much easier to stick to a budget.
Yes, there are a few hidden costs to be aware of in Greece. Many attractions charge additional fees for photography or guided tours, and local transportation from airports may have hidden fees during peak hours. Additionally, some restaurants include service charges, so it’s wise to check the menu prices carefully.
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