Athens, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is a delight to explore year-round. However, during the scorching summer months, the heat can become overwhelming. Don't worry, though! As locals, we know how important it is to stay cool and comfortable while enjoying the beauty of our city. In this article, we provide you with essential tips to beat the heat and enjoy your time in Athens. We also highlight the measures taken by Athens Walking Tours to ensure your tour is an enjoyable experience, even during a heatwave.

Revised Tour Start Times

As a heatwave approaches Athens (July 17, 2023, to July 19, 2023), Athens Walking Tours prioritizes the safety and comfort of our guests, staff, and guides. To make your tour more enjoyable, we have adjusted the start times for our popular Acropolis Tours and Acropolis and Acropolis Museum Tours and keeping the times for the afternoon tours. The new start times are as follows:

• 7:45 am - Book the Acropolis Tour or the Acropolis and the Museum Tour 
• 8:30 am - Book the Acropolis Tour  or the Acropolis Museum Tour
• 9:00 am - Book the Acropolis Tour  or the Acropolis Museum Tour
• 5:00 pm - Book the Acropolis Tour  or the Acropolis Museum Tour (starts at 15:30 with the visit to the Acropolis Museum first)
• 5:30 pm - Book the Acropolis Tour and Acropolis Museum Tour

By beginning the tours earlier in the morning, we can avoid the intense heat later in the day and take advantage of cooler hours.

Dress Appropriately

When the temperature soars, dressing appropriately can make a significant difference in your comfort. Consider these tips:

• Opt for loose, light-colored clothing that allows your skin to breathe and facilitates efficient heat dissipation.
• Protect yourself from direct sunlight by wearing a wide-brimmed hat or a cap to shield your face and head from the intense rays.
• Safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with a high SPF rating.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for your well-being during a heatwave. Keep these tips in mind:

• Carry an adequate supply of water throughout the day. Consider using a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink in Athens) that can be refilled as needed.
• Replenish essential minerals lost through perspiration by carrying a rehydration product such as hydrolyte or an electrolyte drink.

Seek Shade and Air-Conditioned Spaces

To escape the heat, plan your activities wisely and take advantage of shaded areas and air-conditioned spaces:

• Avoid being outdoors between 2 pm and 6 pm, as this is typically the hottest period of the day. Instead, retreat to your hotel, Airbnb room, or a nearby beach or pool to relax and cool down.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a restaurant with air-conditioned rooms, allowing you to recharge while avoiding the midday heat. Opt for a light meal that won't weigh you down, and avoid alcohol, which can dehydrate your body.
• When moving around the city, consider using taxis or the Metro to minimize exposure to the heat. Public transportation options often have air-conditioning, providing respite from the outdoor temperatures.
• Book an indoor activity like the Athens Cooking Lesson & Dinner and spend the afternoon in an air-conditioned environment.

Embrace the Cooler Evenings

As the sun sets, Athens becomes more pleasant. Take advantage of the cooler evenings to relax and explore the city:

• Seek out restaurants or cafes with courtyards or rooftop seating areas, where you can enjoy a delightful meal or refreshing drink in a cooler environment.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife of Athens by visiting rooftop bars or open-air venues with panoramic views of the city's illuminated skyline.
• Attend an open-air cinema or enjoy a performance from the Epidaurus Athens Festival to make the most of the cooler evenings.

Additional Tips to Stay Cool

• Use Cooling Accessories: Consider carrying a portable fan or cooling towel to help keep your body temperature down.
• Visit Museums: Spend the hottest parts of the day exploring Athens' many air-conditioned museums, such as the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Take Breaks: Don't push yourself too hard. Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spots to rest and cool down.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be aware of any heatwave warnings or advisories.

FAQ

What should I wear during a heatwave in Athens?

• Wear loose, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat or cap, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating to protect yourself from the sun.

How can I stay hydrated while touring Athens in the heat?

• Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Use rehydration products like hydrolyte or electrolyte drinks to replenish essential minerals lost through sweat.

When is the best time to be outdoors during a heatwave in Athens?

• Avoid being outdoors between 2 pm and 6 pm. Plan your activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.

How can I cool down while exploring Athens?

• Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, use public transportation with air-conditioning, and consider indoor activities like museum visits or cooking lessons.

What measures has Athens Walking Tours taken for heatwaves?

• Athens Walking Tours has adjusted tour start times to earlier in the morning to avoid the peak heat and ensure a more comfortable experience for guests and offers waters to guests.

Are there any specific indoor activities recommended during a heatwave?

• Yes, consider booking early morning or indoor activities and visit air-conditioned museums to stay cool.

Athens is a city of endless wonders, and with these tips, you can beat the heat and make the most of your visit. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy your time exploring the beauty and history of Athens.