What to Wear in Athens

Start with your feet. The paths on the Acropolis are ancient marble and limestone worn to a shine by millions of visitors, and in places they're as slippery as ice. Ramps and anti-slip strips help, but smooth-soled sandals and leather shoes are a real hazard there, and on the polished pavements of Plaka and Monastiraki too. Wear trainers or walking sandals with a proper rubber tread.

Then think about the sun. There's no shade on the Acropolis hill, and not much in the Ancient Agora. From May to September you want a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a high-factor sunscreen, plus light, loose cotton or linen rather than tight synthetic sportswear. Athenians dress neatly even in the heat. Beachwear stays at the beach.

Churches and monasteries

Greek Orthodox churches, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the small Byzantine churches of Plaka, expect covered shoulders and knees. On a day trip to monasteries, the rules are stricter: Meteora asks women to wear a skirt, often lending wraps at the door, and men to wear long trousers. A light scarf or shawl in your bag solves most of it.

Packing list

• Trainers or sandals with a rubber sole that grips
• A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• A refillable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
• Light cotton or linen clothes in summer
• A scarf or shawl for churches
• A light jacket or sweater for spring and autumn evenings on the hills
• A waterproof layer and warmer clothes from November to March
• Swimwear, if you're heading to Sounion, the Riviera or the islands
• A small cross-body bag, zipped, for the metro

Evenings are the exception to the relaxed rule. Rooftop bars and restaurants in Kolonaki and Syntagma are smart-casual, and Athenians will be dressed for it. For the heat itself, time your sightseeing with our best time to visit guide, and for the climb up the hill, read our Acropolis guide.