Overall, Athens was the cheapest capital we have visited so far; Budapest is coming very close, but it depends a lot on the season. We visited Athens both in March & May both times it was during the low season.

What makes Athens an awesome budget travel destination? The many free things to do in Athens (among other things like cheap entrance to sites and cheap food).

1. Changing of the guard in front of the Parliament

Most travelers do know about the change of the guard in front of the Parliament. Every Sunday at 11 a.m. you can watch a larger number of Evzones performing the changing of the guard in the Syntagma Square.

But, aside from this, you can also see the change of the guard right in front of the president’s house, in the same area of Syntagma Square.

2. A walk in the National Gardens

It may not be the nicest thing to enjoy when it rains – like we had the “pleasure” on a Sunday the first time we visited (2012) – but on a sunny day , the area is a lovely option to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The second time (2017), we ventured in the Gardens quite a bit as it was on the way from the Archeological sites to our accommodation. We’ve discovered hidden allies where there aren’t that many tourists, gorgeous places to take pics, and a lot of green!

The National Gardens started its life as the Royal Gardens having been commissioned by Queen Amalia. In the 1920s it became a public park and the main entrance was move at the 12 palms planted by the queen (the street in front was also renamed to Queen Amalia Avenue).

3. State-owned Archeological sites during on special days

The Acropolis, The Greek Agora, the Roman Forum, the Temple of Olympian Zeus…and several more sites and museums can be visited for free on special days.

Yes, they may be crowded but it is worth saving the entrance fee. Plus, if you travel during the low season, chances are it’s mostly locals that visit the sites rather than fellow travelers anyway.

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4. A walk in Monastiraki flea market

There are plenty of cheap trinkets to buy, but if you don’t plan to spend anything, just go for a walk.

5. A walk in Anafiotika

The upper area of Plaka – also known as Anafiotika – looks like…an island. The reason? Residents of Anafi – a Cycladic island – moved here and decided to build the houses just like on the island. Most of them are not inhabited but the tiny streets and the colorful shutters make for lovely photos. And don’t miss the cat.

6. Museums

The following museums can be visited for free, ALWAYS:

• Museum of Popular Musical Instruments (1-3, Diogenous Str., Plaka)
• Railway Museum (4 Siokou Street)
• War Museum (2, Rizari Street & Vasilissis Sofias Avenue)
• The Hellenic Children’s Museum (14, Kidathineon Street) – temporary closed
• Municipal Gallery of Athens (51 Piraeos Street) – temporary closed

7. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

Construction began in 1842 and the church is very interesting. When we visited (2012) it was under renovation.

8. A walk in Plaka

Colorful shops and tavernas, the playful cats, and the relaxing atmosphere. You can explore the area for hours but, inevitably, you’ll get tired and hungry and there are quite a lot of chances you’d decide to stay for a meal at one of the many tavernas.

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