10 awesome things to do in Athens during the winter

What's the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of Greece? Is it scenes of Meryl Streep dancing along the beach to an ABBA song? Is it relaxing on a private yacht in the middle of the Aegean sea with its crystal blue waters? Is it sipping Ouzo from the balcony of a charming restaurant that overlooks the Acropolis?

For many, the European country is synonymous with summer. Millions upon millions of tourists flock to the country (and its most popular city, Athens) from May through September, cramming onto the Acropolis steps as temperatures skyrocket into the mid-90s. Even more partygoers pile onto ferries to hit the bars in Mykonos or swim the Santorini waters, each by way of Athens.

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Athens tourism hit a record-breaking number this year, with 5.5 million visitors taking the city in 2018. That number is up 600 percent from 2013.

But there's a right time to visit Athens-- and a wrong time. If you want to get the most out of one of the oldest cities in Europe, it's by visiting in the winter, which boasts the exact same opportunities as the summer. Plus, the low cost of flights (priced at nearly half of its summer prices) and the mild temperatures make Athens the perfect winter escape.

Fact: Nonstop flights to Athens in July average over $1000 per person, round trip. Meanwhile, nonstop flights to Athens in March start at $500 per person. (Emirates is currently offering non-stop round-trip flights for as low as $518).

Fact: Temperatures range in the low 60s in February. We'd take that over a Nor'easter any day.

The top-rated restaurants are still open, the Acropolis is still standing, the mastika is still flowing, but you don't have to brave the crowds or break the bank.

We have your flights covered, your packing list covered and now your itinerary covered. Scroll through below to see the must-hit spots in the bustling city and start planning your trip.

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