Walking in Athens

[ARLO69]

How easy is it to walk Athens on your own? Worry about pickpockets--getting to Syntagma Square, etc.

[cruisemom42]

You will probably get more responses if you repost this on the Mediterranean (rather than the Africa and Middle East) forum.

 

That said, Athens is relatively safe. Yes, there are pickpockets, but if you take the recommended precautions (don't take anything you don't need, don't keep money/wallets/passports in back pockets, outside coat pockets, unzipped bags or backpacks, and so on) you will be fine. These are crimes of stealth, they are not muggings.

 

As to easy -- it is very easy, here is a link to a post on the Greece forum on how to do Athens on your own:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1109593

[MercedMike]

As in most foreign ports, as long as you stay in the major tourist areas and major public spaces, it is no more dangerous than San Francisco or NYC. The Metro in Athens works very well and is as safe as public transportation in any major city. Of course this means you keep your wallet and purse in a safe place as you would anywhere.

 

Almost all of the major antiquities are located on the Antiquities Promenade, accesible from the Akropoli Metro stop. It is a beautiful walk.

 

check out our trip report and pictures at http://www.bully4.us/athens.html

 

From the end of the promenade it is easy to visit other sites nearby or take the Metro to Syntagma Square.

 

Have a GREAT cruise!

[paul929207]

Athens is safe or unsafe as other big cities. We walked all over the city when we were there a few years ago. Be warned that it can be very hot in the summer. Also, it is a trek up to the acropolis.

[lurvecruise]

going there Dec 15 2010 cant wait..... wondering how the weather in Dec?;)

[maryann ns]

Well the weather was great up to Dec. 2 when we left last year. We could even eat outside. You may get rain and should bring a jacket.