Athens, a beautiful city with a mild climate for most of the year, can become scorching hot during the summer months. As locals, we understand the importance of staying cool and comfortable in the face of a heatwave. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips to beat the heat and enjoy your time in Athens, along with the measures taken by Athens Walking Tours to ensure your tour is a pleasant experience.

Revised Tour Start Times

As a heatwave approaches Athens (July 12, 2023, to July 16, 2023), we prioritize 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. The new start times are as follows:

• 7:45 am. Book here the Acropolis Tour
• 8:30 am. Book here the Acropolis Tour and here the Acropolis Museum Tour 
• 9:30 am. Book here the Acropolis Tour and here the 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, it's essential to dress in a manner that promotes comfort and helps regulate body temperature. Consider the following 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

During the heatwave, staying hydrated is crucial for your well-being. Keep the following 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.