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Walking/doing stairs

I've read that there is a lot of walking and stair climbing to see the sights in Athens. Considering that I'm 76, I'm in decent shape but would want to know how strenuous the walking and stair climbing is.

Posted by
103 posts

In my opinion, the Acropolis is a climb that is not suitable for mobility challenges. Rubber soled shoes and a companion can help.

Posted by
3569 posts

The only site that might present a challenge is the Acropolis, and even then, the steps and slopes are manageable with a basic level of fitness, even at 75 years old if you have no specific physical limitations and are in good shape.

The most important factor, in my opinion, is the time of year. In summer, you can encounter temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F). That's when it becomes a challenge.

Posted by
1153 posts

Depends on what you want to see. The Acropolis requires climbing up and down a crowded, slippery, marble staircase, once you are up there it is quite flat. The rest of the sites around the Acropolis and in Athens are easy walking. I was in my mid-70’s the last time I was in Athens I used a walking pole which worked well for me and many other people were also using them. Very useful as sidewalks can be cracked and broken in the older areas like Plaka. Another consideration, depending on when you are going, is the heat.

Posted by
3677 posts

Vikki if yiu will be in Greece awhile, have you considered the great option of taking along a folding "trekking stick"?? This is NOT a cane, it's an adjustable lightweight walkling-stick ... all vet hikers, hill climbers, trail-followers happily use. When I got to my 70s, I found it made everything much easier in Greece! The secret is, finding the Right one -- compact, adjustable. The one I've liked best is Earth Trek - 4 alulminum segments that socket together w central bungee cord, folds like a W, down to size of a library book, easily packable in suitcase (may require being checked). Available in regular and Short (latter folds down 4" shorter) from many sources online. Believe me, you'll use it a lot on long walks or hills or ancient sites. outside of athens.

Posted by
245 posts

We were in Greece in Sept 2025. My husband is 69 and had knee replacement surgery in Summer 2024. He handled the ascent to the Acropolis just fine. However, I would echo what others have said regarding a walking pole. There were quite a few areas where some assistance for stability would have been helpful (not a lot of hand rails along the walk). If you have someone with you to hold your hand/slip your arm in their arm you should be good.

There were plenty of places to stop and sit - not a chair per se, but rocks of proper height for sitting. It is not a race, just take your time. The weather was perfect when we were there, but I cannot imagine hiking it in midday in the peak of summer. Dress appropriately and bring water.

We also walked the ancient agora and the Temple of Hephaestus - very few (if any) vertical challenges.