Athens is the dynamic capital of Greece and the birthplace of democracy itself. To walk its streets is to immerse yourself in ancient history and walk in the footsteps of the greatest minds this world has ever known from Socrates to Aristotle. Nowadays, it may not be the most beautiful of European capitals – in fact, it's somewhat sprawling and even dirty in places – but it makes up for this via its beautifully chaotic energy and the sheer weight of exciting things to see which blend ancient history with contemporary culture.

Archaeological ruins litter the city, standing among bustling streets filled with lively markets, exquisite Greek restaurants, traditional tavernas and souvenir shops peddling statutes of Greek mythological figures. Visitors can take shelter from the unrelenting sun in world-class museums, showcasing treasures of ancient civilization, or in galleries displaying art both modern and old. Above all this, the impressive Pantheon sits atop the Acropolis, in view practically wherever you are in the city. As for the Greek people themselves, they are some of the friendliest in the world with every waiter seemingly wanting to chat about where you are from and complete strangers helping lost tourists find their way on the metro. 

Athens also has quite an active LGBTQ+ scene. As of February 2024, Greece became the first Orthodox-majority country to legalise same-sex marriage and to give gay couples the right to adopt. Despite this momentous achievement a lot of Greeks still live partially in the closet, but Athens is the place where you’ll find the largest and most progressive gay scene in the country. Gazi is one of the more popular neighborhoods and you’ll find plenty of gay and gay-friendly venues in this area. Over time, it has become slightly less gay-focused as it’s become gentrified but as a first-time visitor, it’s still the place to use as your base during your Athens adventure.

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Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Athens
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Athens
5. Gay Tours in Athens
6. Restaurants and Cafes
7. Athens Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Athens Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Beaches in Athens
10. Gay Events in Athens
11. Day Trips from Athens

General Tips

Athens is both rammed with tourists and extremely hot in the summer – especially in July/August. The best time to visit is either late spring (April/May) or fall (September/October). Visitors during these times will enjoy less crowds, comfortable weather and cheaper hotels. Winters in Athens get cold and rainy just like most of Europe, but visiting for Christmas gives unique insight into Greek Christmas traditions.

Gazi is Athens’ gayborhood and an excellent place to choose a hotel. However, it is worth noting the area is slightly out of the center and away from the big attractions – which could be a good thing. Also, Gazi’s gay bars, clubs and saunas aren’t all on the same road and most are found on side streets off the central square or across the main roads surrounding it. The Psyrri area is another good – more central – choice to stay in, which has a superabundance of nice restaurants and bars on your doorstep. There are some dangerous parts of the city to avoid like Omonia, Exarcheia and Vathi – be wary of cheap hotels because they may be in these areas.

Athens' beach is quite far from the center but reachable by either bus or tram. The city beaches are often quite busy, so a good option is to pay to enter a beach club like Bolivar or Bikini Beach Bar – for a cheap price you get a lot more space and peace of mind. 

Athens is quite a cheap city as a whole with even the central restaurants not costing too much. Practically everyone in the city speaks English or knows someone nearby who does, so if you get lost simply ask for directions. People are also remarkably friendly and happy to help. Speaking a little Greek certainly helps but they understand it isn’t the easiest of languages to learn.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Athens has a well developed public transport system and you can get just about anywhere without a car. In fact, the roads get very busy, so often the metro is a better option than car or the confusing buses. There are only five lines on the metro and they are well connected, so you shouldn't have to change more than once to get anywhere. It’s still a relatively cheap city and even taxis are not expensive.

You can reach the city center from the airport by taking the metro line 3 which costs 10€. Express buses also operate from the airport and drop you in several central locations. There are plenty of direct transfer as well that will take you directly to your hotel or accommodation. The ride will take you about 45 minutes to an hour. You can buy multi-day tickets which include your airport transfer which may be a good option since Athens is a bit spread out and not necessarily a compact, walking city.

The nearest beaches are reachable by either tram or buses. Be aware the tram system can be a little confusing, especially on the way back into the center. Be sure to catch the right one or you'll end up halfway down the coast! Tickets can be bought either in the metro stations or from select kiosks near the tram lines.

Gay Hotels in Athens

Luxury

King George Hotel – Near the Metro station. Offers lots of extra touches including free wi-fi, hair salon, dry cleaning/laundry, an elevator, pool umbrellas and concierge services.

New Hotel – Gay-friendly and nonsmoking. Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, steam bath, gym, massages, Concierge, luggage storage, bar, food, and more.

Mid-Range

A for Athens – Well within walking distance (15 minutes or less) of Flex Sauna, Eagle Bar Cruise Bar, and other gay bars in Gazi. Don't miss the panoramic view of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace.

McQueen – Kitchenettes and suites are available. Free breakfast and Internet with bar/lounge on-site. High marks for cleanliness and service.

The Margi – Luxurious yet charming with free breakfast/Internet/parking and a fitness center, pool, bar/restaurant on-site.

Budget

Alexander Apartments – located in Gazi, the popular Alexander sauna actually has 3 apartments for rent upstairs. The apartments are modern, clean and spacious and go for about 50€ per night. The apartments are fully air-conditioned with private bathroom, a kitchen and living room.

Savoy – a great value hotel that is close to the port, making it an ideal stopover for those taking a cruise. It has clean spacious rooms, friendly staff working a 24 hour front desk and a traditional looking bar-restaurant serving a breakfast buffet in the mornings.

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Sightseeing & Activities in Athens

Acropolis & Parthenon – one of the most visited monuments in the world – definitely Greece's most famous. In terms of execution and conception, the Parthenon is the finest monument on the Acropolis. an ancient temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. Legend has it that Athena gifted the city an olive tree, symbolizing peace and prosperity, which can also still be seen near the Erechtheion temple. Consider taking a guided tour to get the full story. Book tour →

Acropolis Museum – this museum at the foot of the Acropolis is filled with ancient Greek artifacts, as well as countless statues of both historical and mythological figures. You can spend hours here gaining fascination insights into ancient Greek civilization. Tickets must be purchased online (or via a scan code by the entrance) and include entrance to the ruins that were uncovered below the museum during its construction. Book tour →

Ancient Agora – an “Agora” was a gathering place in Ancient Athens, the center of democracy where some of the greatest minds ever known would go about their business. Now it's an amazing collection of ruins, temples and sculptures for you to peruse. Walking through it really gives you an insight into how life was in times long past. The Temple of Hephaestus found there is the best preserved Greek Temple in all of Greece. Book tour →

Temple of Olympian Zeus – Zeus was the king of the gods in Olympian and the remnants of his temple still remain in the center of the city. Very little of it remains standing besides a few crumbling pillars, but it is still worth paying a visit to such a historically important site. The temple is the big draw but be sure to visit the gardens north of it too – check out the turtle filled lake. There are many other ruins dotted around the city too but the above four are perhaps the most important. Book tour →

Plaka Neighborhood – Eat and shop… our favorites! Restaurants and shops on every corner with a busy, bustling atmosphere. Book tour →

Pandrossou Street Market – great prices on more food and more. This is a cool area of town with plenty of shops, stands and street performances.

Syntagma Square – overlooking this central square of white marble is the Hellenic Parliament building, an impressive structure dating back to the 19th century. A highlight for visitors is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place hourly at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in front of the Parliament. Every hour on the hour the Evzones, elite soldiers in traditional uniforms, perform a unique ritual which has to be seen to be believed. Syntagma Square is also surrounded by cafes, shops, and is a starting point for exploring Athens, offering a perfect blend of modern life and historical significance. Book tour →

Lycabettus hill – the highest point in Athens is unsurprisingly the best view of both the city and the Acropolis. The 30 minute walk up the hill is challenging on a hot day, but a funicular offers an alternative. Either way, it is well worth the effort – especially for sunset. There is also a restaurant to enjoy the view from and the Church of Agios Georgios to visit. Book tour →

Gay Tours in Athens

Greece is an interesting destination for LGBTQ+ visitors given the queer history that existed during ancient times. Ancient Greek men are well-known for having a history of same-sex relationships including some of the most famous like that of Alexander the Great or even characters from Plato’s Greek Tragedies. You can explore the history on your own at the museums of Athens, but you’ll get a more intimate experience by taking a tour.

Midnight Rainbow Private Gay Tour – Athens is a place with a long history of sexual liberalism and offers a wide range of choices for its LGBTQ+ communities to meet, interact and party. Greece is also considered by many the birthplace of gay culture, as homosexual relationships were quite common in ancient Greece. Today, it follows the European standards and is considered a very safe place for gay communities, with a wide pool of gay bars, cafes and restaurants. Book tour →

Gay Beaches in Athens

Limanakia Beach – yes, Athens does have a gay beach. It may not be close to the center and it may not have soft sandy beaches, but it exists and it’s a place gay locals and visitors go to cool off in the warmest months of the summer. It’s about 35 minutes outside the city by car or alternatively, you can take the E22 bus there from Syntagma Square. This is both a gay and nude rocky beach (aren’t they always?) with clear waters and some secluded corners for those looking for that sort of adventure. There are actually three coves with the last along being the most cruisy. 

Bolivar Beach Bar – alternatively, for those not wishing to take such a long journey out of the city, there are many beaches easily reachable by a 15 minute journey on the tram from Syntagma Square. Although not specifically gay, Bolivar Beach Bar is a resort which attracts a lot of gay people among its visitors. It costs 8/10 euros to enter depending on the day, but you get a private bar, restaurant, beach facilities, more space and access to plenty of sun loungers. They even have parties and concerts during the night from time to time, which tend to draw a mixed crowd.

Restaurants and Cafes

Lithos Tavern– this establishment serves great authentic Greek cuisine at a reasonable price with fast, outgoing service and exquisite house wine. It's also ideally located in the vibrant Psyri district and sitting on its terrace gives you the feel of being right in the center of the action. Suggestions: the ‘small' kebab; Lithos wine; beef on the bone; slow roasted joint lamb or the Greek Salad.

Bougatsadiko Psirri – this traditional family-run pie shop/bakery/restaurant is rather legendary in the area for serving the best Greek pies, which are freshly cooked right in front of you. It's a great place to go for breakfast but they also do amazing pizza for a quick bite during the day. The interior is beautiful but they also have a rather nice well-shaded terrace out on the square, ideal for people watching.

Prosopa – a very gay-friendly restaurant in front of the Ancient Agora with exquisite – if a little pricy – food. Amazing pork, chicken filets, pasta and risottos all priced reasonably. Try these: tenderloin with fig and espresso; a salad with graviera (greek cheese) and pear; or risotto with the pumpkin.

Rooster – the ideal location for refreshing chicken dishes, fast, friendly service, and a cozy garden setting. After dinner, try the Fredo traditional drink with the banoffee pie.

Kuzina – high marks for cuisine and even higher marks for atmosphere. Some favorites: braised rib of beef, chicken with veal; zucchini balls stuffed with cheese; and grilled meatballs with sumac pitta bread spearmint yogurt sauce. If you're really hungry, try the rolls filled with sun-dried tomatoes, eggplant, and lamb as an appetizer.

Kanella – an interesting mix of clientele shows up here to this restaurant in the Gazi (gay) district. This modern taverna is moderately priced and a good place to people/men watch while you eat.

Little Kook Athens -a whimsical little fairytale inspired café, famous for its garish decorations with themes like Alice in Wonderland – making it one of the most instagrammable locations in Athens. They serve delicious crepes and smoothies. Found on a small street near Monastiraki Metro station, it is a true hidden gem!

The Brunch Factory – a great option for – you guessed it – brunch! Located in the historical district the portions will fill you up and the quality doesn’t disappoint.

Kostas – a casual place in a lively area that's an amazing choice for souvlaki.

Aleria – an upscale restaurant experience serving contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. The space has three different dining areas including a beautiful patio that’s open in the summer. 

Myrovolos – lots of girl on girl action in the happening bar at night, and during the day portrays itself (very convincingly) as a popular pizza restaurant/cafe that opens its doors at 11am.

Athens Gay Bars and Clubs

It’s important to note that the gay scene in Athens is less public compared to gay hotspots like Mykonos. But equally so, the scene here is much more regular and local as opposed to seasonal and tourist driven like you’ll find in the islands. There is no gay street per se and although the bars and clubs are mostly found in the Gazi area, they are scattered around – often down side streets.

Café del Sol – a late night gay bar and all day café. One of the most popular haunts for the local gays in the city.

Kouckles Club – If you love comedy and stage performance, you must stop here for nightly cabaret bar and drag shows.

Moe – Theme nights, DJ's, and drink specials in this cozy, after-nightclub/gay bar in Gazi's happy and gay village.

Beaver – a great lesbian spot in central Athens with good food and drinks.

Noiz – Another lesbian club with upbeat music and a warm décor. It's okay boys… you're welcome here as well. Just bring your own date!

Bequeer – open on weekends and offering up an awesome drag scene of Athens. The host new shows every weekend with a team of Athenian drag queens each Friday and Saturday night. Entrance is just 5 euro, which includes a beer.

Big Bar – The first – and best – bar in Athens for big and hairy types and their admirers. Cheap drinks and a friendly atmosphere make for a winning combination. Perfectly located near the gay district, it's a great place to start a night out in Athens.

Sodade 2 – After 13 years, it is Athens' most famous gay nightclub. DJ's play several types of music for 2 dance floors on the weekends. On Mondays is Greek pop music night, if you fancy a fully immersive experience into the world of Greek pop divas.

S-cape – In a word: legendary. Admission 5 €, except on “open bar” nights (12 €). Go-go dancers, drag shows, DJ's, special events and theme nights. Step into one of their three cages for a unique experience. Can you S-cape?

TAF (The Art Foundation) – not specifically gay, it’s gay-friendly and has a relaxed scene offering art, drinks and a vibrant alternative and hipster crowd that is welcoming to anyone.

Shamone – a super stylish club with nice atmosphere, a outdoor chill space and themed nights every week.

Athens Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars

Alexander Sauna – this is Athens' most popular gay sauna located in the heart of Gazi. It's huge with 4 floors of different spaces. These include more sociable areas like a garden and bar to more action based areas like their two dry saunas, Jacuzzi, glory hole zone, mega steam labyrinth and private cabins, Some areas like the “detention cells” and “prison cabins” are completely naked and where the more extreme action takes place. Entrance is 15€ or 7€ if you’re under 30 years old.

Ira Baths – this is one of the oldest saunas in Athens, but it’s still fairly popular among locals. Located in the Omonoia area.

Flex Sauna – this sauna has a variety of facilities including a large steam room, three saunas, jacuzzis, solarium, TV room, dark room, relaxing area and roof garden. Towels and slippers are provided.

8 Downtown Athens – this is a sexy high-end cruising establishment in the center of Athens, which is open to anyone of any sexual persuasion and is especially popular with a LGBTQ+ crowd. They have a huge erotic cinema with 16 screenings playing porn movies – both gay and straight – and private cabins, glory holes, peeps shows and a BDSM dungeon with dark rooms.

Gay Events in Athens

Athens Gay Pride – celebrated now for 10 years and takes place in early June. It’s not the biggest or most progressive pride you’ll find in Europe, but it’s still a fun and interesting event and one worth planning a trip around if you have some flexibility. The parade is the highlight of the weekend which takes place Saturday evening. You’ll also find several morning activities on Saturday followed by a large outdoor show and party after the parade in Syntagma Square. The number in attendance is about 20,000 and even the mayor of Athens attended in 2014 for the first time, a big milestone for the local Athenian LGBTQ+ community. Dates for 2025 to be announced.

Day Trips from Athens

Marathon – Here's the story behind the run: upon receiving the stunning news of a battle victory, “Phidippides” (an Athenian messenger) ran an astounding 26 miles to spread the happy news to Athens. This is his run. A marathon directory can be found here… very helpful. The original course and a much more compact info/registration site can be found here. Bus: 1 hr. 20 minutes for $3-$4. Book tour →

Temple of Poseidon (@ Cape Sounion) – there are a variety of tour types. The panoramic attributes are nothing short of mystical and magical. If you can plan your tour around a sunset… do it! Bus to Sounio 2 hrs at $11-$12. Book tour →

Vouliagmeni Lake – Swim with the fish (they tickle your… feet) and explore the caves and rocky ledges. Bus: 1 hour and 30 minutes for $22-$25; Train: 2 hour and 15 minutes for $25-$29. Book tour →

Delphi – you seldom see a real, honest to goodness, 5 out of 5-star rating, but here it is! Don't make the mistake of thinking, “oh, it's just another bunch of ruins”. Peaceful yet magnificent. Majestic but humble in its holy reverence. Tours of all types are available for every wallet. You will never forget your visit to Delphi! Bus: 2 hours and 45 min at $12. Book tour →

Frequently Asked Questions About Athens

 

Is Athens gay-friendly?

Athens is generally considered very gay-friendly, offering a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. While some discrimination and conservative attitudes persist, the city boasts LGBTQ+ events, inclusive venues, and an overall tolerant atmosphere. Gazi is the gay area, but LGBTQ+ travelers – like everyone – should have some caution outside of the main tourist areas. 

 

When is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are fewer. Summers can get pretty hot and crowded, while winters are mild but rainy. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more enjoyable experience.

 

When is Athens Pride Week, and what events can I expect during that time?

Athens Pride Week takes place in mid-June with vibrant festivities, cultural events, and advocacy activities. Its colorful parade is the highlight of the weekend which takes place Saturday evening followed by a big live event in Syntagma Square. Athens’ bars and clubs spring to life. 

 

Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations in Athens?

Yes, Athens offers a variety of LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations including hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options. Many establishments are welcoming and affirming of LGBTQ+ guests, providing safe and inclusive spaces to stay. It's best to stay within the center or Gazi area and advisable to check reviews for recommendations tailored to individual preferences and needs.

 

What are some must-visit LGBTQ+ landmarks or neighborhoods in the city?

In Athens, the Gazi neighborhood is a hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs. Exarchia is known for its alternative scene, including LGBTQ+ friendly cafes and venues. Additionally, the historic Plaka district offers charming streets and cafes where LGBTQ+ travelers can relax and explore the city's rich culture.

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