Top Tourist Traps to Avoid in Athens and How to Save Money Instead

Athens is a city that blends ancient history with modern charm. From the mighty Acropolis to lively street markets, every corner has something to offer. But just like any top tourist destination, Athens has its share of tourist traps—places and experiences that seem exciting but end up being overpriced, crowded, or simply not worth your time.

But don’t worry—there are smart ways to avoid these traps and make the most of your visit. In this guide, we’ll uncover what to watch out for and how to save money while experiencing the best of Athens.

Let’s get started!

Overpriced Tours and Skip-the-Line Scams

One of the most common traps in Athens is overpriced tours that promise exclusive experiences but fail to deliver. Many companies sell guided tours at inflated prices, taking advantage of tourists who fear missing out on major attractions.

Another common issue is skip-the-line scams. Some vendors charge extra for fast-track access to popular sites like the Acropolis, but in reality, the wait times are often short, especially if you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Purchase Acropolis tickets from official sources to avoid paying unnecessary fees. Reliable online platforms offer skip-the-line access, allowing you to enter quickly without long waits.

How to Save Money

• If you prefer a guided tour, research companies with good reviews and compare prices before booking.
• Visit major landmarks during off-peak hours to avoid long lines without paying extra.

Tourist-Centered Restaurants with High Prices

Greek food is one of the highlights of any visit to Athens, but many tourists end up paying double or triple the normal price for a subpar meal. This is especially true in highly crowded areas like Plaka and Monastiraki, where restaurants cater mainly to visitors.

A common trick is for staff to stand outside and aggressively encourage people to dine inside. Some restaurants also add hidden fees, such as service charges or expensive bottled water that you didn’t request.

How to Save Money

• Eat where locals eat. Areas like Exarchia, Koukaki, and Pangrati have authentic tavernas with fair prices.
• Avoid places with pushy waiters or menus in only one language.
• Check online reviews before dining and ask for prices upfront to avoid surprises on the bill.

Taxi Overcharges and Fake Transport Fees

Taxis in Athens are known for overcharging tourists, especially those arriving at the airport or ports. Some drivers refuse to use meters, take unnecessarily long routes, or charge extra for luggage and tolls without informing passengers.

Another issue is fake transport passes sold near metro stations. Some sellers claim to offer unlimited travel passes, but these are often expired or invalid.

How to Save Money

• Use official taxis with meters. The standard fare from Athens Airport to the city center is €40 during the day and €55 at night (flat rate).
• Consider rideshare apps like Beat, which ensures fair pricing.
• Buy public transport tickets only from official kiosks or machines inside metro stations.

Souvenir Shops with Inflated Prices

Many souvenir shops in Plaka and Monastiraki sell mass-produced items at extremely high prices. Some stores claim to sell “handmade” Greek goods, but these are often imported from other countries.

Additionally, some street vendors overcharge for simple items like fridge magnets, small statues, and olive oil products. Tourists who don’t compare prices may end up paying three to five times more than the actual cost.

How to Save Money

• Visit local markets in Psiri and Varvakios Agora for authentic and affordable souvenirs.
• Buy directly from Greek artisans in areas like Kolonaki or Anafiotika, where prices are fair.
• Compare prices in multiple stores before making a purchase.

Hidden Fees at Popular Attractions

Many historical sites in Athens have extra charges that are not always clearly mentioned. Some attractions charge additional fees for:

• Audio guides or guided tours that were not included in the ticket price.
• Taking photographs or entering specific sections of a landmark.
• Special exhibitions that require separate admission tickets.

Additionally, some unauthorized guides offer tours at high prices, claiming they provide exclusive access when, in reality, they don’t.

How to Save Money

• Check the official website of each attraction before visiting to see all costs upfront.
• Consider purchasing a combo ticket that covers multiple sites at a discounted price.
• If you need an audio guide, see if free mobile apps are available instead of renting one on-site.

Expensive Day Trips with Low Value

Athens is well-connected to nearby destinations like Delphi, Meteora, and the Saronic Islands. While these places are worth visiting, many travel agencies overcharge for tours with tight schedules and little free time. Some also make unnecessary stops at souvenir shops where prices are marked up for tourists.

How to Save Money

• If possible, plan your own trip using public transport or a rental car.
• Book day tours only from trusted companies with transparent pricing.
• Read customer reviews to avoid itineraries that rush through destinations.

Misleading Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours sound great, but not all of them are truly free. Some guides apply pressure to give large tips, while others end the tour at a restaurant or shop where they earn commissions from your purchases.

How to Save Money

• Look for walking tours that clearly mention tipping policies beforehand.
• If possible, join government-sponsored or museum-organized tours that are genuinely free.
• Use a reliable self-guided tour app to explore at your own pace without spending extra.

Inflated Prices for Rooftop Bars with a View

Athens is famous for its stunning rooftop bars with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, especially in areas like Monastiraki and Syntagma. While the experience is tempting, many of these bars charge extremely high prices for drinks and food simply because of the view. Some places even require a minimum spending amount, which can quickly add up.

How to Save Money

• Instead of tourist-heavy rooftop bars, visit local cafés or less crowded terraces that offer similar views at a fraction of the price.
• Enjoy the view from public spots like Philopappos Hill or Lycabettus Hill, where you can admire the city skyline for free.
• If you do want the rooftop experience, check menus online first to avoid hidden charges.

Conclusion

Visiting Athens should be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, without proper planning, tourists can easily fall into traps that waste both time and money. So, you can enjoy a budget-friendly and authentic Greek adventure by staying informed, booking tickets from official sources, eating at local spots, and using trusted transport options. 

Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.

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Article Title: Top Tourist Traps to Avoid in Athens and How to Save Money Instead

https://fangwallet.com/2025/02/27/top-tourist-traps-to-avoid-in-athens-and-how-to-save-money-instead/

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