The sunhat is everywhere in Athens as crowds grow larger at ancient sites

In Athens, Greece, a sea of hats can be seen bobbing up and down the hill leading to the ancient Acropolis, where tourists gather in the relentless heat. Kiosks and stores are stocked with an array of sun protection gear, including straw boaters, Panama hats, baseball caps, and bucket hats, as more visitors seek relief from the midday temperatures. The Acropolis welcomed a record 4.6 million visitors in 2025, a testament to the popularity of the ancient site.

With temperatures hovering in the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit) and little shade, many tourists don't hesitate to wear hats to shield themselves from the sun's rays. Even a carriage horse at the foot of the monument has joined the fashion trend, sporting a brown bucket hat with holes cut for its ears.

One Australian tourist, Jack Yosif, said, "You need a hat. I'm already red as it is." He admitted that wearing a hat has become more commonplace among tourists. As the heat persists, Greek health campaigners have welcomed the growing awareness of the dangers of ultraviolet exposure and the risk of heat stroke.

Red Cross volunteers stationed at the Acropolis hand out kits containing sunscreen, water, information leaflets, and red caps. On Syntagma Square, kiosk owner Konstantinos Mallios noted a rise in hat sales over the years, with prices ranging from 6 to 20 euros ($24). In addition to these traditional options, there are also semi-disposable hats made using compressed paper pulp and more extravagant designs crafted by specialist hatmakers.

Retailing for up to 100 euros, these elaborate hats are a popular choice for those seeking unique sun protection.