Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a popular destination for Muslim travellers seeking to explore the rich history and culture of the ancient city. With its stunning architecture, fascinating museums, and vibrant street life, Athens offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that appeals to visitors from all over the world. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Athens for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

As a Muslim traveller, you can enjoy the city’s many attractions while also experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local Muslim community. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s ancient ruins, sampling its delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up its vibrant atmosphere, Athens is a must-visit destination for any Muslim traveller.

Is Athens Muslim-Friendly?

Athens offers moderate Muslim-friendliness with improving infrastructure:

  • Growing Muslim community: Significant immigrant population
  • Official mosque: Athens Mosque opened in 2020 (first in 200+ years)
  • Halal restaurants: Available in immigrant neighborhoods
  • Ancient history: Fascinating sites like the Acropolis
  • Safe city: Low crime, welcoming to tourists
  • Improving services: Tourism industry increasingly aware of Muslim needs

Athens serves as a good base for exploring Greece with planning.

Does Athens Have Halal Food?

Athens has reasonable halal food availability, especially in certain neighborhoods:

Best areas for halal food:

  • Omonia Square area: Immigrant neighborhood with Middle Eastern and South Asian restaurants
  • Victoria Square: Bangladeshi, Pakistani, and Arab restaurants
  • Monastiraki: Some halal kebab options in the tourist area
  • Metaxourgio: Diverse dining options

Types of halal cuisine available:

  • Middle Eastern (Lebanese, Syrian, Egyptian)
  • South Asian (Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Indian)
  • Turkish kebabs and döner
  • Halal Greek-style grills at select restaurants

Safe alternatives:

  • Fresh seafood throughout the city
  • Vegetarian Greek dishes (verify no wine in cooking)
  • Greek salads and cheese dishes

Apps and resources: Use HalalTrip and Zabihah to find current halal restaurants.

What Is the Largest Mosque in Athens?

Athens Mosque (Masjid Votanikos) is the official mosque:

  • Opened in 2020—first official mosque in Athens since 1833
  • Located in Votanikos district
  • Modern facility accommodating 350 worshippers
  • Funded by the Greek government
  • Open for all five daily prayers and Jummah

This was a historic development, as Athens was one of the few EU capitals without an official mosque for nearly two centuries.

Other prayer facilities:

  • Various makeshift prayer rooms in immigrant neighborhoods
  • Some community centers offer prayer space
  • Ask local Muslim community for current options

Top Muslim-Friendly Experiences in Athens

The Acropolis

Greece’s most famous monument:

  • Non-religious historical site
  • Modest dress recommended (comfortable for Muslims)
  • Visit early morning to avoid crowds and heat
  • Halal restaurants nearby in Monastiraki

Plaka and Monastiraki

Historic neighborhoods:

  • Some halal food options
  • Shopping and cafes
  • Ancient Agora nearby

National Archaeological Museum

World-class collection:

  • Air-conditioned respite
  • Nearby immigrant areas for halal food

Syntagma Square

Central Athens:

  • Watch the changing of the guard
  • Starting point for exploring
  • Some halal restaurants accessible

Is Athens Safe for Muslims?

Athens is safe for Muslim travelers:

  • Low violent crime rates
  • Tourist police assist visitors
  • Greeks are generally hospitable
  • Women wearing hijab face no significant issues
  • Muslim community is established and visible

Standard urban precautions apply (pickpocket awareness in tourist areas).

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Stay near Omonia or Victoria: Easier halal food access
  2. Visit the Athens Mosque: Historic significance as first official mosque in 200+ years
  3. Seafood is your friend: Greek islands and coastline offer excellent halal options
  4. Day trips: Ferry to islands (plan food—limited halal outside Athens)
  5. Summer heat: Plan prayers and visits around the intense midday heat
  6. Learn Greek basics: “Halal” is understood; “chimiko krasi” means “without wine”
  7. Currency: Euro (EUR)
  8. Prayer times: Long summer days affect Fajr and Isha timing