Athens boasts a walkable downtown around the University of Georgia, with a dense array of creative spaces, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate an accessible urban environment. While vibrant and accommodating in its core, the city's walkability decreases in residential and commercial outskirts, which may necessitate a car for further reach. Noteworthy is the ongoing enhancement of pedestrian infrastructure, further benefiting those in central, walkable districts.

Athens is served by a fare-free bus system, Athens-Clarke County Transit, which offers around 20 routes that conveniently connect key areas, including downtown and the University of Georgia. This accessibility is advantageous for travelers without cars, though bus frequency and coverage could limit spontaneity and flexibility. While it ensures decent city mobility, travelers might find it essential to plan trips around bus schedules, or turn to alternatives such as intercity travel options to nearby hubs like Atlanta.

Athens holds the distinction of being a Bicycle-Friendly Community, enriched with dedicated bike lanes and appealing trails like the Firefly Trail. Resources are available for planning bike routes, enhancing its charm for adventurers. Nonetheless, travelers should be prepared for steep inclines and sporadic gaps in bike infrastructure, particularly on heavily trafficked roads. Biking is a good option for covering short to moderate distances, particularly within downtown and campus zones, but caution is advised on less accommodating roads.