Athens in Winter: What to do, eat and explore between volunteer days.

3rd November 2025

So, you’ve made it to Athens this winter, no blazing sun, no chaotic crowds, and no overpriced gelato. Just cool, laid-back vibes and the real version of this ancient city.

Whether you’re here with Impactrip for a few weeks or volunteering long-term, winter is actually the perfect time to experience Athens more like a local. The weather’s chill (literally and metaphorically), the street food’s hot, and the ancient ruins? Still epic.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up what to do in your free time, from coffee spots to cozy hikes plus a few tips to keep things budget-friendly and sustainably minded.

1. Hit the Acropolis Without the Summer Madness

Winter is the best-kept secret for seeing Athens’ biggest attraction. You’ll walk right up to the Acropolis without queueing, sweating, or battling tour groups with selfie sticks. Plus, the moody winter light makes your photos way more atmospheric.

Volunteer tip: Go early in the morning before your program day starts—it’s peaceful and perfect.

 Impact tip: Walk there from Plaka or Koukaki and skip the rideshare.



2. Warm Up in Underground Museums (Literally)

Athens is packed with museums, and winter is prime time to explore them without the heat exhaustion. The Acropolis Museum is a must, but also check out the Museum of Cycladic Art for cool ancient aesthetics or the Benaki Museum for everything from indie exhibitions to old-school Greek fashion.

 Bonus: Most museums have cozy cafés inside—perfect for journaling or reading between volunteering shifts.

3. Coffee Culture, Athenian-Style

Greeks don’t just drink coffee—they stretch it into an art form. In winter, outdoor cafés stay open thanks to heaters and blankets, and the indoor ones feel extra hygge. You’ll spot groups talking politics, couples on dates, and lots of solo readers.

 What to order: Greek coffee (traditional), freddo cappuccino (iced, but still popular in winter), or rakomelo (a warm boozy honey drink).


4. Fuel Up With Winter Comfort Food

Greek food hits different when it’s cold outside. Forget salads and souvlaki for a second—winter is all about soups, stews, and dishes your Greek grandma would make if you had one.

Must-tries:

  • Fasolada – bean soup that will absolutely save your life on a rainy day
  • Giouvetsi – beef and orzo baked in clay pots
  • Revithia – chickpeas stewed all night, best with crusty bread

Pro tip: Go where the locals go—no English menu = better food. Try Oinomageiremata or Diporto for old-school vibes.

5. Get Lost in Markets and Side Streets

The Central Market (Varvakios Agora) is loud, messy, and weirdly wonderful. It’s part shopping experience, part cultural deep-dive. Vendors yell, spices fill the air, and somewhere in the chaos you’ll find a tiny stall selling soup that slaps.

Try this: Grab a koulouri (sesame bread ring), walk through the market, and talk to the vendors. They love it when you ask questions—even more when you try some Greek.´

6. Take a Winter Walk Up Lycabettus or Philopappos Hill

Not into running or gyms? Athens’ hills are your workout. Lycabettus Hill gives you panoramic city views, and Philopappos Hill (just behind the Acropolis) is quieter, greener, and has ancient ruins scattered throughout.

 Bring headphones, a podcast, and enjoy golden hour.

Low-impact + high reward: No ticket, no travel, and your photos will look unreal.


7. Easy Winter Day Trips (No Tourist Herds Included)

Got a weekend free? Use it. Greece in winter = cheap transport, fewer people, and more authentic experiences. You’ll actually meet locals instead of getting trampled by cruise groups.

Easy getaways:

  • Nafplio – coastal charm + medieval castles
  • Delphi – ancient vibes in the mountains
  • Aegina – a short ferry ride and perfect for a chill beachy day (even in winter)

Most IG-worthy: Meteora. Giant monasteries built on rock pillars. Unreal.

Final Thoughts: Winter in Athens Feels More Real

Volunteering here gives you a deeper view of the city—but exploring it in the off-season takes it even further. It’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about slow travel, real conversations, and actually feeling Athens. No filters, no stress.

Winter’s version of the city is less about the “top 10” lists and more about:

  • Climbing ruins in your hoodie instead of melting in the sun
  • Drinking tsipouro by a heater while it drizzles outside
  • Finding your go-to café, souvlaki stand, or bookstore