Athens in March

[Lotusgone]

The history of this place appeals, and going in late March should avoid - I assume - the worst of the temperature, smog and crowds.

Has anyone been recently? Does this time of year sound like a good idea? How much enforcement/disregard on the buses and metro is there on face masks?

Any information would be gratefully received.

[stevethegreek]

March can still be quite unpredictable weather wise, so you could get wet, windy weather down to low teens, or some bright sunny days up in the very early twenties. Generally, the temps will drop to around 10c (or a little less) overnight. Personally, I would be inclined to go later in April.

Regarding enforcement of masks, this is almost non existent now. I certainly haven't seen any need in the last few times I've been there this year.

There are some great museums and places of interest - all located around the Parthenon, with the Acropolis Museum being a very worthwhile visit (there's even space for a couple of missing marbles!!!)

Happy to provide further information, just ask.

[Lotusgone]

Thanks Steve, that does indeed help. The late April idea is worth a thought.

The plan was to stay centrally and walk or metro to places. Potentially silly question given it's a city...but does that mean a lot of noise from the street until gone midnight?

[stevethegreek]

Staying centrally is a good idea, the metro is generally good for getting around and walking is great as you get to see much more.

It is a noisy city, there is no getting away from it, the nightlife is just that - all through the night. You could minimise the noise, depending on where you decide to stay. I've stayed in a couple of the larger central hotels and have not been bothered at all, but try and request a room on the higher floors and to the back of the property. You'll miss out on some views, but it is quieter. Alternatively, there's loads of smaller boutique style places in the back streets which will be much quieter.

I always tend to stay around this area, great location and there's plenty of varied accommodation nearby - https://goo.gl/maps/eCUMZbgMURoCafw28