Things to know about Athens

Documents you need when travelling to Athens: for EU citizens who travel to Greece there is no need for a passport, all that is needed is an identity card with Latin characters.

Non EU citizens need a passport to enter Greece and Visas are needed of all foreign countries except for countries of the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Weather in Athens:

• Weather in Athens is generally mild between January and April temperatures are around 10 -16
• May and April up in the 20's
• June, July and August 25 -28°C
• September mid 20's
• October 20's
• November and December it generally goes down to 12°C
• Humidity in Athens doesn't generally goes above 70% and not below 40%

Currency:

The currency in Athens is the euro. There are many opportunities to exchange money in Athens and the places to obtain the highest rates are the banks. There are also exchange outlets at the international airport, as well as post offices, tourist centres, bus and train stations and some hotels and restaurants.

Vaccinations needed to travel to Athens:

There are no special vaccinations needed before you travel to Athens. It is always best to check with your doctor 4-6 weeks before you are due to fly out. Everyone should be up to date with their routine vaccinations. They include measles, mumps- rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu vaccine.

Best time to Shop in the sales:

There are two official sales in Greece each year. In summer they start mid July – august.
During the winter the sale months begin mid January until the end of February.

Bank holidays:

Bank holidays in Athens are frequent. Many are feasts and come with great celebrations and festivities. Generally everything closes during a public holiday.

Business hours :

In general business hours are between 08.00 - 14.00 on Monday to Thursday and from 08.00 – 13.30 on Fridays, although these hours do vary from one business to another. Pharmacies 08.30 – 14.00 and generally closed in the afternoons. In Athens they work on a rota system and they are also open between 17.30 – 22.00.