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5 TOP DESTINATIONS NEAR ATHENS YOU JUST CAN’T MISS

Categories: Athens

By Greeka on 02-01-2018

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It is not a secret that Athens is the perfect central destination when it comes to traveling in Greece. Full of archaeological sites and picturesque little roads, it is a very interesting combination of the old and the new. Retro and modern vibes come together to create a city that everyone falls in love with. But, are you wondering what are the Saronic island options around Athens, where you can go for a little trip and have a taste of the famous Greek island life? We got you covered, as always!

STROLLING AROUND HYDRA

Welcome to the most cosmopolitan Saronic island! Full of neoclassical buildings and mansions, such as the Koundouriotis mansion and the Tsamadou mansion, it will charm you with its vintage vibes. Just 1 hour and a half far from Athens, Hydra is your closest chance to explore rocky beaches and elegant landscapes. Don’t miss the chance to take advantage of the most popular means of transport, riding a donkey, and to explore the island’s flower gardens and charming little streets. Grab the chance to explore Hydra !

STROLLING AROUND SPETSES

Get ready for a getaway to the past! Spetses island is a historical island, as it played an important role in the Greek War of Independence, providing warships and gunpowder to the Greek people, to help them during the battles against the Ottomans. The bond between Spetses and the past doesn’t end here, though, as the only means of transport allowed in the island are bicycles and motorbikes. This gives an even more vintage vibe to the island and it will make you feel like you have time-traveled to the 60s. The time to live this experience is NOW !

STROLLING AROUND AEGINA

Paradise is only an hour away from Athens! Being such close to Athens, Aegina is the ideal destination for those who have little spare time and want to explore the Greek island life, before taking the way home. The crystal clear waters of the beaches into the tourist resorts such as Souvala and Agia Marina are perfect to swim and unwind, during your trip. As for archaeological sites, the most popular one is the temple of Athena Aphaea, which is located in the center of the island and it is a must-see in Greece! Can you hear Aegina calling you? Explore it NOW .

STROLLING AROUND POROS

This is the little treasure of the Saronic Gulf. Although small in size, the island of Poros is full of beaches with crystal clear waters and colorful little houses and it will offer you the full Greek island experience. Poros town is where the heart of the island beats: it is full of cute neoclassical buildings and private yachts. Also, the trademark of Poros island is the Clock Tower, located on the highest hill of the town and the first thing you see, as your boat is approaching the island. Poros is, undoubtedly, one of the most popular Saronic islands, which attracts lots of tourists, especially during the summer. Will you be one of them? Take a day trip to Poros and let it amaze you!

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Athens   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Athens offers an endless number of experiences and attractions, from its ancient monuments and museums to medieval churches and high-end boutiques. You could easily spend several weeks wandering the city and exploring its best-preserved artifacts and

• All Things To Do

Acropolis Acropolis

While there are many more acropoleis (the plural of "acropolis") in Greece, it's this one in central Athens that garners the most attention. In fact, it's routinely referred to simply as " The Acropolis." The site is an elevated, flat-topped rock with an assortment of monuments and ruins built throughout the 5th century BC , including the Parthenon , the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion .

Travelers say the hike to the Acropolis is just as memorable as the sites it holds. If you're going to try it, many suggest beginning your trek in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak temperatures and crowds. For the best photos and views, arrive shortly before sunset. Visitors with mobility issues will have access to an elevator; however, some travelers noticed others struggling to move wheelchairs around the property, which lacks ramps and has gravel pathways, so allow extra time when using a wheelchair.

Acropolis Museum Acropolis Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once you're inside the Acropolis Museum, look for the famous caryatids – a collection of marble statues that were replaced by copies on the Erechtheion for the purpose of their preservation. – Holly D. Johnson

As its name suggests, the Acropolis Museum – which resides in central Athens' Makrigianni district just below the ancient site itself – houses various archaeological findings from the Acropolis. Key exhibits include a relief of Athena Nike, several carved statues from Erechtheion , the head of a statue of Alexander the Great and a gallery with various Parthenon artifacts.

Parthenon Parthenon

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you're visiting during the scorching summer months, get up early and head to the base of the Acropolis before 8 a.m. Summer temperatures average in the high 80s and 90s, and the long lines can leave you standing in the heat for hours.  – Holly D. Johnson

An impressive example of ancient Greek architecture, the Parthenon is a cultural landmark like no other.

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Plaka Plaka free

The beautiful, historical neighborhood of Plaka, located under the Acropolis , is largely residential. Still, its assortment of restaurants and cafes keep it swarming with tourists each summer. You can also shop, especially if you're looking to bring home some gold or silver jewelry. 

Motor vehicles are not permitted on this neighborhood's winding streets, so make sure you have a street map (or access to maps on your phone) and a comfortable pair of shoes. Visitors say the Plaka offers a charming atmosphere and plenty of great shops for both souvenirs and one-of-a-kind finds. If you'd rather sip a drink once the sun goes down, travelers suggest visiting one (or several) of the area's vibrant clubs or bars. 

National Archaeological Museum National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum contains some of the most revered artifacts of Greece, dating back to 5000 B.C., and is considered one of the world's best museums for ancient Greek art. For many recent travelers, this museum was the highlight of their trip.

Prior visitors said this museum is well laid out and offers informative and interesting displays. A few reviewers reported feeling overwhelmed by all of the artifacts on display, and recommended mapping out which exhibits you'd like to see ahead of time to maximize your visit. For many, seeing Agamemnon's gold death mask was a must. Several travelers recommend breaking up your visit with a stop at the on-site cafe. 

Temple of Hephaestus Temple of Hephaestus

One of central Athens' best preserved ruins is the Temple of Hephaestus. Nestled within Ancient Agora , this site was built between 460 and 420 B.C. and once served as a Christian church. Eventually, the building was transformed into an archaeological museum before undergoing excavations in 1930 and later opening to tourists.

According to prior travelers, the Temple of Hephaestus is "impressive" and "definitely worth a visit." In fact, some felt this ruin deserved more accolades than the Parthenon , despite its smaller size. Like most sights found in Ancient Agora and the Acropolis , the Temple of Hephaestus can only be viewed from the outside, so time your visit early in the morning to take in everything while temperatures are cooler. Also, consider visiting Ancient Agora first if you plan on seeing its attractions and those at the Acropolis within the same day. The Temple of Hephaestus and other Ancient Agora ruins are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 to 8 p.m., although hours vary by season

Ancient Agora Ancient Agora

The agoras of the ancient Greek city-states were open areas for people to assemble for everything from political gatherings to public debates. Ancient Agora is the most popular of its kind, thanks in part to its historical significance. Socrates used to lecture here, and it was also here that Saint Paul sought out converts for the then-fledgling religion known as Christianity.

Recent travelers, especially history buffs, loved visiting Ancient Agora. Though some wished the site offered more written information about its ruins, many felt the locale had a better atmosphere (and fewer crowds) than the adjacent Acropolis . Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes or allot extra time for moving around if you use a wheelchair since Ancient Agora's pathways are covered in gravel. Others raved about the views of the Acropolis that can be seen here, but warned that this site is a magnet for pickpockets.

Erechtheion Erechtheion

Located just north of the Parthenon high above the city within the Acropolis complex, the Erechtheion was constructed between 421 and 406 B.C. as a place for Athenians to worship Erechtheus, the mythical king of Athens, and various Greek gods. Though smaller than the Parthenon, this structure features a frieze made of Eleusinian gray stone, multiple sculptures (known as caryatids) and other unique details, making it one of the Acropolis' most eye-catching buildings.

This sight's attention to detail makes it one of Athens' most popular ruins to visit. Sightseers love the caryatids found on the south side of the building, adding that these copies – five of the six original statues are on display in the Acropolis Museum , while the sixth resides in London's British Museum – are so accurate that it's hard to tell they're replicas. Another plus: the stunning city vistas.

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Benaki Museum Benaki Museum

According to some recent travelers, this is the best museum in Athens. The Benaki Museum focuses on Greek art, from prehistory to the modern age. Its campus features several contemporary and historic buildings that house everything from Islamic art to art studios affiliated with Yannis Pappas and Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika, two well-known Greek artists. Facilities like restrooms, restaurants, gift shops and a library are available as well.

Art enthusiasts love visiting this museum's collections and seeing a range of Greek cultural exhibits and historical artifacts all in one place. Note that Thursdays offer free admission after 6 p.m. for permanent exhibits, so this is a good time to visit if you have a Thursday evening in Athens with time to spare. Free admissions are also offered at the Yannis Pappas Studio and the MENTIS workshop, where visitors can see how costumes, military uniforms and more were made for centuries. The only negative, for some, is the museum's abundance of exhibits, which tend to be repetitive at times and are tough to squeeze into one visit.

Anafiotika Anafiotika

Anafiotika is another trendy neighborhood in Athens that is nestled just beside the Plaka , and it is known for its car-free winding streets and alleys as well as its adorable homes and churches. The area is small, yet not difficult to find due to its location just next to the Acropolis . You can easily spend several hours here enjoying coffee or a cocktail, or shopping at one of the local boutiques.

Visitors who have been to Anafiotika say it's one of their favorite parts of the city, and that it's beautiful and even romantic for some. Consider getting up early to capture some stunning photos of Anafiotika with the Acropolis towering in the background and few other travelers to interfere with your shots.

Herod Atticus Odeon Herod Atticus Odeon

Situated on the south slope of the Acropolis , the Herod Atticus Odeon was named after Tiberius Claudius Herod Atticus, a wealthy Athenian who sponsored the building of this ancient outdoor auditorium between A.D. 160 and 174. Historically, the venue hosted a variety of music festivals, but today, the locale serves as the site for many theater, music and art festivals, including the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, an annual arts showcase.

Though some previous visitors said this attraction isn't as impressive as others found in the Acropolis complex, many highly recommended attending one of the venue's summer performances. If you do attend a show here, plan on wearing comfortable walking shoes , since steps at the Herod Atticus Odeon are steep. You can also visit during nonevent days, so long as you purchase an Acropolis ticket, which is generally cheaper than event tickets at 20 to 30 euros (around $22 to $32.50) per person.

Monastiraki Monastiraki free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Monastiraki is an exceptional place to enjoy an incredible meal or shop for souvenirs at a great price. You'll also find lower pricing for vacation rentals and hotels in Monastiraki than you will in the Plaka . – Holly D. Johnson

Monastiraki is a popular neighborhood within the ancient city of Athens similar to the Plaka, yet it's intensely grittier and a better representation of the local vibe than more touristy areas of town. Monastiraki is the place you'll find locals selling their wares on the street, with graffiti and street art covering nearly every building in sight. Delicious eats and drinks are found in this areas of Athens, and at a good price. For example, you can find the best of Greek cuisine here, from moussaka to souvlaki and gyros. The central gathering area in Monastiraki is Monastiraki Square, which is a lively and buzzing city square filled with small shops, food stands and locals enjoying the weather. This square is also a great place to begin walking Ermou Street, which is one of the city's biggest shopping streets when it comes to clothing, jewelry and souvenirs to take home. 

Museum of Cycladic Art Museum of Cycladic Art

Founded in 1986 as a place to display Aegean and Cypriot artifacts owned by Nikolaos and Aikaterini (Dolly) Goulandris, two Athenians interested in preserving Greek culture, the Museum of Cycladic Art features various sculptures, jewelry, pottery and weapons. Permanent collections are housed in the Main Building, while temporary exhibits are showcased at the adjacent Stathatos Mansion.

History buffs and art lovers rave about the high-quality exhibits offered inside this small museum. What's more, all of the displays include English translations, making it easy for Americans to learn about each item. This attraction is also popular with families, thanks in part to its complimentary admissions for children 17 and younger, as well as its kid-friendly activities. Additionally, the museum offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, a gift shop and a cafe, which serves tasty homemade pastries, brunch and light meals and snacks.

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Panathenaic Stadium Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium held the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and it was built on the site of a former stadium used for the Panathenaic games that dates back to 566 B.C. The unique marble stadium is in great condition and draws in tourists from around the world. What's more, it still hosts a range of sporting events and competitions to this day. 

Visitors to the stadium love its historical significance, but this seems especially true among those who love the Olympics or watch the games every few years. Many also agree the entry fee is reasonable for all you can see and learn in a few hours. Note, however, that you can get decent photos and a look at the stadium from outside the gates without actually paying to go inside.

Athens Bus Tours Athens Bus Tours

Like other major cities in Europe, Athens has its share of bus tours. Options include hop-on, hop-off bus tours with open air seating on an upper deck and inside seating below, but you can also book bus tours that last a half day or full day. While a range of companies offer their own unique bus tours and sightseeing options, some of the most popular providers include City Sightseeing , Key Tours and Sights of Athens .

Reviews for Athens bus tours vary by company, but many travelers agree that bus tours in general offer an affordable and convenient way to see the city. Note that many hop-on, hop-off bus tours cost less than 20 euros (about $21) per ticket, yet they give you the chance to see all around Athens without having to walk on foot, and you can get off and on as you please. Some hop-on, hop-off bus tours even offer free Wi-Fi on board. Cruise travelers in particular find the bus tours an efficient way to see the city’s top sights in a short amount of time. Booking a bus tour can also be an efficient way to see archaeological sites outside of Athens, such as Delphi.

Athens National Garden Athens National Garden free

The National Garden of Athens is a beautiful natural garden that sits south of the Benaki Museum and east of the Acropolis . The garden is brimming with flowers, trees, trellises, several lakes and natural vegetation, and it also offers something the city center of Athens often lacks – some natural shade and protection to keep you out of the sun and heat.

The garden is free to visit and open from sunrise to sunset, and you can enter and exit from each side depending on the direction you're headed (there are seven entrances in total). You'll also find public restrooms, a conservatory, a children’s library and a small cafe on-site, although past visitors have said the cafe is overpriced. 

Athens Food Tours Athens Food Tours

People from all over the world love Greek cuisine, and it's easy to see why. From local favorites like saganaki (fried and melted cheese) to fresh Greek salads, gyros and baklava (a dessert made with pastry and honey), there's no shortage of delicious foods to try throughout the country.

Whether you're a foodie or not, you may want to consider booking a Greek food tour to try out all the local favorites with the help of an expert guide. Companies that offer four tours in Athens vary widely, but popular options include Food Around Athens , Greekality , Truevoyagers and Athens Walking Tours . Most tours do require walking and a certain level of physical fitness since you're going from place to place to try new food and drink, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be ready to get your steps in.

Temple of Olympian Zeus Temple of Olympian Zeus

Located near the Acropolis and the Benaki Museum , the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a tall and impressive marble structure that dates back to the 6th century B.C. The site has a long and storied history, as it was dedicated to Zeus, the patriarch of all Greek gods and the ruler of Mount Olympus. While only 15 of the original 104 columns of the temple are still standing, this landmark is one of the most common associated with Athens and worth a look and a few photos.

Visitors to the Temple of Olympian Zeus seem to agree the site is worth a stop even if there's not a lot to see. That said, ongoing restoration work and scaffolding could damper the experience, along with the potential for heat and crowds during a good part of the year. Several reviewers recommended reading up on the site prior to your visit as there isn’t much information on display here.

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Places To Visit Near Athens: Ancient Sites And Attractions Around Athens

There are many fascinating places to visit near Athens, the Greek capital. Here's a look at ancient sites and places of interest close to Athens, Greece.

Places to see near Athens

Athens, the Greek capital, has plenty to see and do. Who couldn't visit this ancient city without spending time at the Acropolis and marveling at the Parthenon?

Athens is also a great base for several day trips where you can explore Greek history and culture. The surrounding regions are packed full of ancient sites, quaint towns, and natural wonders.

Here are some interesting places to visit near Athens on day trips.

Take a half-day trip to Sounion

Sounion is a cape located on the coast of Attica region, 69 km (43 miles) from Athens. Here, you can visit the Temple of Poseidon, the God of the Sea in Greek mythology.

Once you are up on the temple, allow for enough time to enjoy the view of the Aegean Sea. This is one of the most picturesque sunset spots in the whole of Greece.

You can easily visit the archaeological site on a half-day trip from Athens. Unless you have a rental car, it's probably better to take a guided tour, as public transportation is not very frequent.

Read more about it here: Cape Sounion day trip from Athens

Visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi

The ancient site of Delphi is located in the Fokida region in Central Greece, about 3 hours from Athens.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Ancient Greeks considered it to be the center of the known ancient world.

Here, you can see the remains of the Temple of Apollo, as well as several other temples and monuments. The large stadium, where games were held every four years, is really impressive.

The fantastic Delphi archaeological museum is home to impressive artefacts from the 8th century BC to Late Antiquity. One of the most famous exhibits is the Charioteer of Delphi, an impressive bronze statue dating from the 5th century BC.

Taking a guided tour of Ancient Delphi will enhance your experience, and you will learn more about the cult of the Greek God of light, prophecy, arts and healing, Apollo.

Explore the Majestic Meteora Monasteries

If you're looking for a unique destination in Greece, consider visiting the area of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This incredible landmark is known for its impressive landscape, with huge rock formations, and six majestic monasteries perched on top the rocks.

The Meteora monasteries have a long and interesting history. The first hermits probably moved here in the late 10th century AD. In the 14th and 15th century, there was a total of 24 monasteries up on the rocks.

Six of these monasteries are still fully operational today, and they are a popular tourist attraction. A visit to the Meteora monasteries is a unique experience that you'll never forget.

If you have time, it's best to spend at least two days at the Meteora monasteries, and visit all of them. However, it's possible to go on a organized day trip from Athens . You will then have the chance to appreciate the unique landscapes and see the most important highlights.

Follow St Paul's footsteps in Ancient Corinth

If you're interested in history, consider visiting Ancient Corinth. This archaeological site is located close to the Isthmus of Corinth in the Peloponnese, in Southern Greece, and it's about an hour's drive south of Athens.

Corinth was one of the city-states in Ancient Greece. One of the ancient monuments that have survived is the Temple of Apollo, which was likely built around 550 BC.

Ancient Corinth remained an important city during the Roman period. It was here that Saint Paul, the Apostle of the Nations, lived for a year and a half during the 1st century AD, and preached Christianity.

You can follow his footsteps in the ancient site, and also visit the small archeological museum.

Many visitors choose to visit Corinth on an organized tour including other attractions in the Peloponnese, like Ancient Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplion.

Explore the Ancient City of Mycenae

Ancient Mycenae is a popular archaeological site in the Peloponnese. It is located about one and a half hours away from Athens.

The ancient Greek city was one of the most important centres of Greek culture during the period from 1600 to 1100 BC. The king was the mythical Agamemnon, who was the leader of the allied Greek tribes during the Trojan War.

The archaeological site includes the large Cyclopean walls, the famous Lion's Gate, ruins of the royal palace, as well as the iconic Mycenaean tombs. You can easily spend a couple of hours walking around the ancient ruins.

When you visit the archaeological museum, you will see several artefacts from that era, and learn more about the lives of the Mycenaeans.

The easiest way to visit Ancient Mycenae is on an organized tour including other nearby places, like Ancient Corinth and Nafplion.

Check the acoustics at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

The Theatre of Epidaurus is a well-preserved ancient monument located inside the incredible archaeological site of Epidaurus, in the Peloponnese. Epidaurus is a 2 hour drive from Athens, and you will get there through a fantastic landscape full of pine trees.

The site of Epidaurus was the largest sanctuary of Asklepios, the ancient Greek god of healing and medicine. The site was the equivalent to a modern wellness / healing center. The ancient theatre was built to accommodate theatrical and musical performances to honor the god.

Visitors are always impressed by the theatre's exceptional acoustics. During the summer months, you can catch a live performance here – it's a really unique experience.

A guided tour will enhance your experience. You will learn more about ancient healing methods, and how theatrical performances were part of the healing procedure for patients in ancient times.

Walk around the narrow streets of Nafplio

Nafplio, a picturesque coastal town in the Peloponnese, was the first capital of modern Greece. It is located 2 hours from Athens and 30 minutes from Epidaurus Ancient Theatre.

The pretty town is known for its magnificent Palamidi castle, which offers fantastic views of the wider area, and the beautiful neoclassical architecture. You can also explore Akronafplia castle, visit a few interesting museums, and spend some time on the beach. Check out my guide here on things to do in Nafplio .

Nafplio is one of the most popular day trips from Athens, often combined with the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus.

Take a boat trip to the Saronic Islands

Even if you only have limited time in Greece, you can always visit one or more of the Greek islands on a day trip from Athens.

The islands that are the closest to Athens are the islands in the Saronic Gulf, known as the Saronic islands . Aegina is the closest to Athens, followed by Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses.

You can visit each of these islands on a ferry / sea dolphin from Piraeus port near Athens. There are also organized day trips that include a tour of three islands in one day .

Best Islands To Visit Near Athens

Here's a quick look at the island day trips from Athens and what to expect:

Highlights of Aegina island

Aegina's undisputed highlight is the temple of Aphaia. This impressive Doric temple up on a hill dates from 500-490 BC.

Other places of historical interest include the ancient site of Kolona and the local archaeological museum. People interested in religious spaces should visit the Greek Orthodox monastery of Agios Nektarios, and the byzantine churches, like the one built on top of an ancient temple of Zeus Hellanios.

Apart from that, Aegina has some lovely beaches to explore, and many traditional tavernas where you can eat fresh fish. The island's local specialty is the pistachio, so make sure you have a taste.

Highlights of Agistri island

Agistri is a small, pretty island, best known for its wonderful, natural beaches. It's one of the best day trips from Athens if you want to spend your day on the beach and swim in crystal-clear waters.

Agistri is a popular weekend break with Athenians, so if you have a choice visit on a weekday.

Highlights of Poros island

Poros is one of the greenest Saronic islands, and it's ideal for people who want to hike, swim and spend time in nature.

Visitors should also spend some time at the port town, and walk around the beautiful neoclassical houses. Some of the old mansions are really fascinating.

Other highlights include a visit to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, and St George's Cathedral, where you can see some impressive frescoes.

Highlights of Hydra island

Hydra is one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands. Located an hour and a half from Athens on the ferry, Hydra is entirely car-free. It offers a combination of peace and quiet, along with classy restaurants and refined nightlife.

Hydra is the homeland of many Greek heroes who participated in the 1821 Independence War. Many of their houses, like the Tobazis and Koundouriotis mansions, have been transformed into interesting museums.

Visitors can also go hiking, and enjoy the beaches in Hydra, some of which are best accessed by sea taxi.

Highlights of Spetses island

Among the Saronic islands, Spetses is the furthest one from Athens. You can still visit on a day trip, as the flying dolphin takes 2 hours 15 minutes on this route. Like Hydra, Spetses has a rich naval history, and many of Greece's war heroes were born here.

The main town has several outstanding neoclassical houses and mansions. Among them, you will find a few historical museums, like the Museum of Spetses and Bouboulina Museum.

Visitors will enjoy the cosmopolitan ambiance, with upscale restaurants and bars.

On Spetses, there are no cars, but you can hire a moped, bicycle, or sea taxi to get to the island's beaches.

Things to do in Athens

As for Athens itself, most people spend at least a couple of days , to explore the place where western civilization was born. The city center is quite compact, so you can explore on foot and maybe even take a walking tour.

Here are a few ideas for things to do in the Greek capital:

• Climb up the Acropolis Hill and visit the Parthenon, the most famous monument in Greece, dedicated to Goddess Athena
• Find out more about the Acropolis in the Acropolis Museum
• Stroll around the Ancient Agora and the excellent museum, and find out more about life in Ancient Athens
• Explore Ancient Greek pottery, statues and jewelry in the National Archaeological Museum, the largest museum in the country
• Check out the Changing of the Guards in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, just opposite Syntagma Square
• Sit for a picnic in the National Garden
• Explore the Plaka area, the oldest neighborhood in Athens city center, and enjoy walking around its narrow streets, picturesque squares, charming boutiques and traditional restaurants
• Visit the Varvakios central food market, either on your own or with a food tour, and enjoy the delicious Greek cuisine!

Frequently asked questions about day trips from Athens

Here are a few questions that I've been asked in the past:

What day trips can you do from Athens?

Popular day trips from Athens include Delphi, Meteora, Mycenae – Epidaurus – Nafplio in the Peloponnese, and the Saronic islands, like Hydra and Aegina.

What is the closest island to Athens by ferry?

The closest island to Athens by ferry is Aegina. The flying dolphin from Piraeus only takes 40 minutes. Other islands in the Saronic Gulf include Hydra, Agistri, Poros and Spetses. 

Where should I travel after Athens?

It depends on how many days you have, and what you would like to do. One idea is to hire a car, and travel around the Peloponnese, visiting sites like Ancient Corinth, Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Epidaurus and the town of Nafplio.

Is Mykonos or Santorini closer to Athens?

Geographically, Mykonos is closer to Athens than Santorini. However, a domestic flight to either island only takes 40-50 minutes, so you could even visit on a day trip.

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23 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Written by Lisa Alexander and Lana Law Updated Mar 1, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A symbol of Western Civilization, Athens' illustrious history stretches back more than 3,000 years. As you walk the streets today, you'll see a mix of the ancient and the modern, making it the perfect destination for travelers who like a little fun with their sightseeing.

The Acropolis is one of the world's most breathtaking ancient ruins , and the city's exceptional museums display fascinating artifacts uncovered at local sites. Other hidden charms are the dazzling Byzantine churches found all over the city and the village-like neighborhoods north of the Acropolis.

When you think you've run out of things to do in Athens, spend some time getting lost in the Plaka district's narrow pedestrian streets, lined with quaint bougainvillea-draped houses and inviting restaurant terraces. Settle here in a shady spot for a cup of Greek coffee and some fabulous Baklava. When you've recharged head over to the Athens Flea Market in Monastiraki for some light shopping.

A completely different vacation experience from the idyllic Greek islands , Athens can feel hectic and busy during the summer season, but in the spring and fall, you can still enjoy good weather and see far fewer tourists.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top tourist attractions in Athens.

1. Visit the Ancient Acropolis

2. acropolis museum, 3. national archaeology museum, 4. wander the pláka and anafiotika neighborhoods, 5. stroll through the ancient agora: ruins of the marketplace, 6. the roman agora & hadrian's library, 7. panathenaic stadium & olympic stadium, 8. museum of cycladic art, 9. olympieion: temple of olympian zeus, 10. byzantine museum, 11. search for deals in monastiraki & the flea market, 12. panaghia kapnikaréa church, 13. see the changing of the guard at syntagma square, 14. church of the holy apostles, 15. national gardens and the zappeion, 16. church of demetrius loumbardiaris, 17. grab dinner and socialize on mnisikleous street stairs, 18. the national museum of contemporary art, 19. enjoy the view from lycabettus hill, 20. varvakios agora, 21. philopappos monument, 22. areopagus, 23. benaki museum, where to stay in athens for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to athens, athens, greece - climate chart.

Few sights in the world compare to Athens' Acropolis, with its Parthenon temple perched high on a rocky crag keeping watch over centuries of civilization. A reminder of the glory of ancient Athens, the Acropolis was the center of the ancient city and functioned as a citadel in its protected hilltop location.

The most emblematic building is the Parthenon , the largest temple of the classical antiquity period dating from 447 BC to 338 BC. With its monumental rows of Doric columns and stunning sculptural details, the temple is an awe-inspiring sight. In the frieze on the eastern side, reliefs depict the birth of the goddess Athena.

Other ruins of the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike at the entrance, and Erechtheion , a complex of ancient sanctuaries built between 421 BC and 395 BC. The most famous feature of the Erechtheion complex is the Porch of the Caryatids , with six statues of maidens in place of Doric columns.

For beautiful views of the Acropolis from below , head to the north side of the hill. Streetside restaurants line the pedestrian street of Apostolou Pavlou and look up to the Acropolis. Some of these restaurants also have rooftop dining, with incredible views across to the Acropolis, showing the grand entrance, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Parthenon, all of which are lit up in the evenings.

Author's Tip: On hot days, it's best to visit the Acropolis in the morning and then head to the air-conditioned Acropolis Museum in the afternoon. Alternatively, head up to the Acropolis for sunset. To avoid the long line to get in, buy a Skip the Line Acropolis of Athens Tour , which includes a guided tour of the site.

• Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

Another of Athens' top attractions, the Acropolis Museum contains one of the most valuable collections of ancient Greek art in the world . The new facility was completed in 2007, below the Acropolis hilltop, and replaced the former museum on the hill.

This huge facility 25,000 square meters, and features 14,000 square meters of exhibition space. The unique layout incorporates an ancient Athenian neighborhood.

This is one of the best things to do in Athens when temperatures are soaring at midday. Be aware, the entrance queue to purchase tickets can be long, so it's best to book your tickets online in advance. That way, you'll have a guaranteed admission at a specific time.

Official site: http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en

Founded in the 19th century, Athens' National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the greatest antiquities museums in the world.

The museum is housed in an impressive Neoclassical building with 8,000 square meters of exhibition space. On display are five permanent collections with more than 11,000 exhibits, offering a comprehensive overview of Greek civilization from prehistory through the classical period to late antiquity.

The Prehistoric Collection covers the sixth millennium BC to 1050 BC (the Neolithic, Cycladic, and Mycenaean periods) and presents findings from the prehistoric settlement at Thera. The Sculpture Collection exhibits ancient Greek sculptures from the sixth century BC to the fifth century BC, including rare masterpieces. The Vase and Decorative Objects Collection showcases ancient Greek pottery from the 11th century BC all the way until the classical Roman period. The Stathatos Collection features minor objects from a wide range of historical periods. Exquisite little statues and figurines sculpted from metals are on display in the Metallurgy Collection .

Address: 44 Patission Street, Athens

Official site: https://www.namuseum.gr/en/

Between the northern slopes of the Acropolis and Ermoú Street, the picturesque Pláka neighborhood is a tourist hot spot. The main attraction of this historic area is its charming village ambience. Narrow pedestrian streets and the cheerful little squares of the Pláka quarter are lined with lovely bougainvillea-trimmed pastel-painted houses, restaurants, and shops.

Tucked away in peaceful corners of the neighborhood are historic churches, such as the Metamórfosis Church in the southwest and the Church of Kapnikaréa in the north. A leisurely stroll through the picturesque setting is the perfect thing to do when you've had your fill of ruins and museums.

The Plaka quarter, along with neighboring Anafiotika nestled into the slopes north of the Acropolis, have an abundance of authentic Greek restaurants with inviting terrace seating. The winding medieval streets of Anafiotika are also a delight to explore in the evenings. This area is famous for its Restaurant Staircase on Mnisikleous Street . Nearby, quieter streets are hidden away on the hillside, which conceal cute little cafés and restaurants.

The area boasts two important archaeological sites on Pepopida Street: the first-century BC Roman Agora and the second-century Library of Hadrian .

The ancient Agora was the marketplace and the center of everyday life in ancient Athens. For an impressive view of the Agora from afar, head to the north wall of the Acropolis or the roads from the Areopagus.

The best place to enter the Agora is at the north gate off Adrianoú Street (near the Church of Saint Philip). The Greek word "Agora" means to "gather and orate," indicating that this site was a location of public speaking. The Agora was a place of administration and commerce as well as the meeting place of the Agora tou Dimou, a civic decision-making group. Athletic events and theater performances were also held here.

One of the most striking features of the Ancient Agora is the Stoa of Attalos , originally built by King Attalos II and reconstructed in the 1950s. The stoa may have been the scene of Socrates' trial in 399 BC.

Another key site is the Temple of Hephaistos . You can reach it on a pleasant walk along the footpath that leads up the Agora Hill (Kolonos Agoraios). This fifth-century BC Doric temple is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, thanks to its conversion into a Christian church, which saved it from destruction. The temple was designed on a classical plan with six rows of 13 columns, and the Ionic friezes appear to be modeled on the Parthenon.

Address: 24 Andrianou Street, Athens

Adjacent to the Ancient Agora is the site of the Roman Agora. While it may all seem like one site, these buildings were constructed later, and construction eventually moved on to the site of the Ancient Agora. One of the easily recognizable sites here is the Tower of the Winds .

On the edge of the Roman Agora is the ancient Hadrian's Library , founded by Emperor Hadrian in AD 132. Even later, during Byzantine times, three churches were built near the site of the library.

You can see one wall of Hadrian's Library and the ruins of the Roman Agora from the street, but if you want to explore further, you can buy a ticket and walk through the ruins.

Ancient Athens's largest building, the Panathenaic Stadium, has a capacity for 60,000 spectators. Constructed around 335 BC during the era of Herodes Atticus, the venue hosted the Panathenaic Games where runners competed in races around the track. The 204-meter-long track was designed with four double herms, where runners would turn in the races.

Around AD 140, the stadium was updated with new marble seating by Herodes Atticus. The structure that tourists see today is a replica of the original stadium , which was rebuilt for the Olympic Games of 1896 . This modern-era Olympic Stadium was created in the identical fashion as the Panathenaic Stadium, with 47 tiers of seating and a rounded southeast end.

The facility hosts concerts and other events during the summer. Attending a show can be a nice way to spend an evening in Athens.

Location: Ardettos Hill, Athens

In the Kolonáki quarter, the Museum of Cycladic Art was created in 1986 by the Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris Foundation. The shipowner Nikolas P. Goulandris was a well-known patron of the arts and cultural life in Athens. Goulandris' own collection forms the core of the museum's exhibits.

Housed in a sleek modern building with a façade of marble and glass, the museum's permanent collection includes more than 3,000 objects. The collection represents ancient Greek art, ancient art of the Cyclades (the islands in the Aegean Sea encircling the Island of Delos near Mykonos), and Cypriot art (from the island of Cyprus ) dating from the fourth century BC to the sixth century AD.

Many of the artifacts on display date to the sixth century BC. Temporary exhibits are held at the elegant 19th-century Stathatos Mansion, accessible from the main building by a passageway from the atrium.

Address: 4 Neophytou Douka Street, Athens

Official site: https://cycladic.gr/en

Dedicated to Zeus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, also called the Olympieion, was the largest temple in ancient Greece . Though the Parthenon is better preserved, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was an even more monumental structure in its day. The temple dates to the sixth century BC but was not completed until the second century AD by the Emperor Hadrian. In front of the Olympieion, not far from the entrance, stands Hadrian's Arch at the end of Dionysiou Areopagitou.

It's easy to imagine the grand impression this temple made in its complete form. More than a hundred enormous marble columns once supported the grandiose sanctuary. Only 15 columns remain standing, and another surviving column lies on the ground, but the ruins' monumental presence gives a sense of the massive size of the original building. The gigantic structure was a befitting shrine to Zeus, the ancient Greeks' most all-powerful God, known as the King of Gods.

Nearby, just north of the Olympieion, is a small park containing the ruins of Themistokles' wall and the ancient Roman baths . The baths are quite impressive considering they are a free attraction that you can easily work into your walking tour near the Olympieion. They are located right along the edge of Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, at the side of the road.

Location: City Center near the Athens Gate and Athanasiou Diakou Street, Athens

This interesting museum offers fascinating insights into the Byzantine period of Greek history. Housed in a 19th-century palace originally built for the Duchesse de Plaisance, the wife of Charles-François Lebrun of France, the museum displays a precious collection of Byzantine art.

The Byzantine Empire was the inheritance of the eastern half of the Roman Empire after it fell. From the third century to the 15th century, the Byzantine Empire ruled over the land of what is now the Balkans, Greece, and Asia Minor. During this time, religious art was highly valued. Byzantine artists created masterpieces of detailed, glittering mosaics and gilded icons.

With more than 25,000 artifacts on display, the Byzantine Museum is a treasury of religious artifacts from the Byzantine period as well as pieces from the early Christian, medieval, and post-Byzantine eras. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, icons, textiles, and mosaics. Highlights are the architectural fragments from early Christian basilicas and Byzantine churches and the reproduction of a fountain depicted at the Monastery of Dafní. The museum's courtyard features a splendid fragment of a mosaic floor from the fifth century.

Address: 22 Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens

Official site: www.byzantinemuseum.gr/en/

Location: Ancient Agora, Athens

Narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from jewelry and trinkets to clothing and everyday goods is what you'll find in the Athens Flea Market in Monastiraki. This is one of the neighborhood's main draws, but this area has a very unique vibe and is a nice place to just relax at an outdoor patio or wander about.

Monastiraki has no shortage of restaurants, and this is a good place to come for lunch if you want to grab a gyros or any type of traditional Greek dish. Unlike the more upscale Plaka district, this area is a bit more casual.

Monastiraki Square is an open area, surrounded by a mix of old and new buildings. This is a good place to orient yourself. A sign on one side of the square marks the street to the Flea Market. From the square, you can see the Acropolis up high in the distance, and a short walk from the square takes you to Hadrian's Library.

Gracing a little square that opens onto a pedestrian-only section of busy Ermoú Street, the Panaghia Kapnikaréa Church is a delightful place to visit and a site you are likely to walk past. This church is a splendid example of architecture from the 11th-century Byzantine era and a stark contrast to the modern architecture that surrounds it. It was saved from demolition in the 19th century by the intervention of King Ludwig I of Bavaria.

When it was built, domed cruciform churches such as this one were typical. In the 12th century, the church was enhanced with a graceful entrance portico and a narthex featuring four pediments (built onto the western end). Inside, the church is decorated with 19th-century paintings created in the iconographic style of the Middle Byzantine period.

Location: Corner of Ermoú and Kalamiótous Street, Athens

For many tourists, watching the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square is an exciting and memorable experience. The Soldiers of the Presidential Guard stand in front of the Hellenic Parliament on Syntagma Square 24 hours a day, year-round. The guards wear traditional costumes complete with pleated skirts, leg tassels, and pompom shoes.

The Changing of the Guards takes place in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier monument at 11am daily. This monument honors anonymous soldiers who died fighting for the country. The monument features a marble relief that imitates a warrior grave stele of ancient times.

On the site of the ancient Agora, the Church of the Holy Apostles was the only building left standing when this entire quarter of Athens was demolished to excavate the Agora archaeological site. Built in the 10th century, the church stands above a nymphaion (sacred spring).

The exterior is notable for its ashlar masonry and its ornamental Kufic (a style of Arabic script) inscriptions. Typical of Byzantine architecture, the church has a dome supported on four columns, and the apse and transepts feature semicircular conches. The interior of the dome is adorned with original frescoes depicting Christ Pantocrator (Ruler of All), John the Baptist, adorable little cherubim, and archangels. Much of the original 11th-century iconostasis (wall of icons and religious paintings) has also been well preserved.

Located next to the Greek parliament, the National Garden is a large green space behind the Temple of Olympian Zeus and home to the Zappeion. If you have had enough sun during your day of sightseeing, this is a quiet, shady place to relax and cool off. Inviting trails lead through tall trees and offer a reprieve from the busy streets. It's also a free attraction in Athens.

On the edge of the garden is the Zappeion Hall , which you can enter for a peek inside if it is not in use. It was built in the 1870s and is used for events. Inside the main entrance is an impressive round, open-air hall, lined by columns.

In a verdant setting on Philopappou Hill , this tiny 12th-century Byzantine chapel offers an opportunity for an enchanting spiritual experience. The building was constructed at the Diateichisma Gate because of the ancient belief that divinity protected the gates.

Inside, the church has a single-aisle vaulted basilica form, and the walls are adorned with frescoes dating to 1732. The chapel's name "Loumbardiaris" (meaning "The Cannoneer") is connected with the legend that the church was saved by a miracle around 1650 when the Turkish commander of the Acropolis, Yusuf, bombed the church. The church was restored in the 1960s by the architect D. Pikionis. Another highlight of visiting Philopappou Hill is the chance to take in spectacular views of the Parthenon from this location.

Location: Philopappou Hill, Athens

If you are looking for things to do at night in Athens, head over to the Mnisikleous Street stairs. Restaurants line this set of stairs on the top end of Mnisikleous Street, drawing a crowd in the evenings.

The restaurants vary in quality, although some are quite good, but the atmosphere here is hard to beat. It's extremely casual and relaxed. In fact, when the tables are full, people take to sitting on cushions on the stone stairs, and small knee-high wooden benches are brought out and placed on the stairs, creating an impromptu table. People are often tightly packed in, making for an intimate and friendly experience.

Sometimes a visit to Athens can feel like an overdose on history. To alleviate that condition, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art. This institution is the cultural epicenter of Athens and is home to a constant stream of temporary exhibits showcasing the latest in art innovation.

In addition to the visiting exhibitions, the museum has an impressive permanent collection of 172 pieces on display. These items were created by 78 different artists, both domestic and international, along two specific topics requested by the museum.

The total collection of the museum consists of 1,300 pieces, most of them in paintings and photography.

As you stand on and gaze out over Athens from the Acropolis, you may wonder what the hill in the distance is. That would be Lycabettus Hill, and it's well worth a visit. The view from the top of Lycabettus Hill is one of the best in Athens.

At 227 meters in height, it's the highest point in the city and provides a unique view down upon the Acropolis. The funicular operates well into the night (12 to 1:30am depending on the season), so a trip up here at night to see the city lights and the Acropolis fully lit is highly recommended. Or, if you find yourself there during the day, take a bit of time to soak it all in by grabbing a cold drink or a bite to eat at the restaurant at the top.

You can walk to the top if you really want to, or as most people do, take the three-minute ride on the funicular .

Official site: https://www.lycabettushill.com/

If you are looking to get off the well-trodden tourist path in Athens and see how true Athenians live, set your alarm to get up early and head to the Varvakios Agora. Located in the Monastiraki neighborhood, this fresh food market is an experience unlike any in Athens.

The bounty of the sea and farm are on full display, with the lively sellers hawking their goods to locals and tourists alike. In another building nearby, fruit, vegetables, and, of course, olives are on sale. Small restaurants are located on the premises, offering cheap, tasty, and filling meals. Take some time to wander the aisles and soak up the atmosphere, and be sure to bring your camera!

The Philopappos Monument is only an 800-meter walk southwest of the Acropolis and well worth the pleasant stroll to get there. The area, known as Pynx Hill , is an oasis of green with mature cypress and pine trees and makes for a pleasant escape from the crowds and concrete.

The monument dates from the 2nd century AD and is adorned with incredible bas-relief depictions of Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos.

The monument is set on a high point with views back towards the Parthenon, Acropolis , and city sights.

As you gaze down from the Acropolis you may wonder to yourself what all those people are doing on that bald white rock outcrop located nearby. Well, they've climbed up to the top of the Areopagus to enjoy the panoramic views of the Acropolis and the surrounding cityscapes.

Easily reached via winding pathways through cypress bushes and an ancient marble staircase, this outcrop is a popular destination for those looking to do a short hike as part of their Athenian exploration. Areopagus is also a very popular spot to enjoy the sunset and to capture images of the Acropolis and other ancient sights at night when they are softly lit.

Although the hilltop is barren except for the ruins of a church, it was once the site of the supreme council of ancient Athens. The site is free to access and open 24 hours a day .

For a deeper dive into the culture that spawned all the history that surrounds you, step inside the doors of the Benaki Museum. Housed in a spectacular Neoclassical-style mansion, the collection spans the centuries starting with the ancient Greek artifacts and ultimately right through to the 20th Century.

In addition to the priceless treasures found here, the building itself is an attraction worth learning about as it transitioned from a private residence into the museum you see today.

The Benaki Museum showcases a regular rotation of temporary exhibits in the Spyridon & Eurydice Costopoulos Gallery.

Official Site: https://www.benaki.org/index.php?lang=en

The best place to stay in Athens is near the Acropolis in the Plaka or Anafiotika neighborhoods. This will put you in the center of the action and within walking distance of the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Library of Hadrian, and Syntagma Square. Both neighborhoods are picturesque and quaint, with narrow pedestrian-only streets, many restaurants, and interesting shops. Below are some highly-rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian Zeus and many good restaurants, the boutique AVA Hotel Athens offers quaint and cozy suites with kitchenettes.
• The O&B Athens Boutique Hotel is a 10-minute walk to the Acropolis and features modern rooms and a spectacular rooftop patio with amazing views.
• The elegant Grande Bretagne Hotel , with a well-regarded rooftop restaurant, is set in a prime location that it has occupied since 1874.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The appropriately named Plaka Hotel offers good rooms in a great location, and the rooftop patio has views to the Acropolis. Free coffee and tea are on offer all day long.
• The Hermes Hotel in the Plaka is newly renovated and just a two-minute walk to the attractions of Syntagma Square.
• On a quiet side street, the Central Hotel has also been recently renovated and offers modern, comfortable rooms and a hot breakfast. It's a 15-minute walk from the Acropolis, and the view from the rooftop patio is quite spectacular.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Acropolis House is a good budget option with an excellent location close to attractions, and the shops of the pedestrian-only Ermou Street are a short stroll away. This is a historic property, and rooms are dated but come in an assortment of sizes. Some rooms have their own bathrooms, but others come with their own bathroom located down the hall. Guests have their own key to their private washrooms.
• The Hotel Metropolis has been recently renovated and provides rooms with balconies, some facing the Acropolis.
• See the Sights: For maximum sightseeing flexibility and value, it's hard to beat the City Sightseeing Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Tour . Accompanied by an audio commentary, you can cruise around Athens in an open-top double-decker bus, hopping on and off at any of the 14 stops to spend more time at your favorite attractions, such as the Acropolis or the Plaka. If you only have a few hours to see the highlights of Athens, the Athens Half-Day Sightseeing Tour blends both the city's ancient and modern attractions. An expert guide takes you to see top sites such as the Tomb of the Unknown, the Acropolis, and the Pantheon. This 3.5-hour tour includes admission to the Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum (optional), hotel pickup, and free Wi-Fi on the coach.
• Delphi Day Trip: If you want to complement your Athens tour by exploring historic monuments further afield, consider the Delphi Day Trip . This full-day tour takes you to this World Heritage-listed archaeological site to see the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archeological Museum. On your way home, you have a chance to explore the picturesque towns of Arachova and Levadia. Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, free Wi-Fi, and entrance fees.
• Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip: Stunning scenery and hilltop ruins are the highlights of the Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip . This full-day guided adventure includes a beautiful drive along the Saronic Gulf and into the Peloponnese to see the hilltop ruins of Mycenae as well as a visit to Epidaurus, the birthplace of Apollo's son, and the picturesque town of Nauplia. Also included are entrance fees, a professional guide, free Wi-Fi on the coach, and a map.
• Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Day Trip : See one of Athens' most famous monuments on the Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip . Traveling in an air-conditioned coach, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic drive to Cape Sounion to see the remains of the clifftop Temple of Poseidon, overlooking the sea, while an experienced guide shares information about its history. This four-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, entrance fees, and free Wi-Fi on the coach.

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For many people, Athens is simply a gateway to the Greek Islands or destinations to the north. If you are planning your trip, below are some ideas to help find places to visit in Greece.

Greek Islands: The most famous and popular of the Greek Islands is Santorini . If this is your first excursion to the Greek Islands, it should be on your itinerary. Also very popular is Crete . This is a large island with many things to see and do, so be sure to include more than a day or two if you are planning on stopping here. Other ideas for Greek islands include Corfu , Rhodes , Samos , and Mykonos.

Exploring Greece: The rich history of Greece extends far beyond Athens, but the remains of the Temple of Apollo in Corinth and the seat of the oracle at Delphi are within the reach of a day trip. Another highlight is the monasteries above the rock formations at Metéora . For more ideas, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions in Greece .

More on Greece

Visit Athens: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in athens: the 20 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re traveling to Greece and want to visit Athens , the capital? You’re wondering about the best things to do in the city?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have created this guide of the 20 best places to visit in Athens , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Athens in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what to do in Athens? Let’s start with the best places to visit!

1. The Acropolis of Athens and The Parthenon

2. the acropolis museum, 3. the ancient agora, 4. the national archaeological museum of athens, 5. the national garden and the zappeion park, 6. syntagma square, 7. ermou street, 8. monastiraki district, 9. plaka district, 10. mount lycabettus, 11. the panathenaic stadium, 12. the philopappos hill, 13. the roman agora, 14. the other museums in athens, 15. gazi district, 16. go to the beach, 17. cape sounion, 18. the saronic islands, 19. mycenae, epidaurus and nafplio, bonus – water sports and other activities to do around athens, top things to do in athens when it rains, best things to do in athens with family, getting around athens on foot, how many days to visit athens, 1 day in athens, 2 days in athens, 3 days in athens, where to stay in athens, where to eat in athens, renting a boat in greece, tourist map of athens, cyclades (greek islands), visit athens: the 20 must-see attractions.

Let’s start this list of the 20 best things to do in Athens with The Acropolis, the most emblematic site of the city.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hill in the capital is one of the most visited Ancient Site of Greece. It’s also Athens’ main tourist attraction.

At the top, you will find the Parthenon , the most famous monument of the Acropolis. As most of the site, it was commissioned by Pericles and b uilt during the 5th century B.C. This temple, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, is entirely made of marble and weighs about 20,000 tons!

The other places to see on the site are:

• The Propylaea, the monumental gateway to the Acropolis
• The Erechtheion (or Erechtheum): a Temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. Its most remarkable element is the Porch of the Caryatids (or Porch of the Maidens), where 6 statues of young girls are used as columns.
• The Temple of Athena Nike
• The Theatre of Dionysus
• The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a stone theatre still used for representations during Athens Festival.

The best way to visit The Athens Acropolis is to buy a 30€ combined ticket . The ticket is valid for 5 days, and includes a skip-the-line entrance to the Acropolis and an access to the 6 others main ancient sites in Athens :

• The Ancient Agora
• Hadrian’s Library
• The Temple of Olympian Zeus
• The Roman Agora
• The Aristotle’s Lyceum
• The Kerameikos.

To get this combined ticket, it’s very simple, you just have to book it by clicking on the button below:

To make them most of your visit to Athens, you should opt for the Athens City Pass. It includes all the must-see attractions, such as:

• The combined Acropolis ticket mentioned above
• The Acropolis Museum entrance ticket
• An audio guide for your visit to Athens
• A 10% discount on all other attractions in Athens

To book it, simply click here:

And if you want to learn everything about the Acropolis History , the best is to opt for a guided visit (it’s also a skip the line ticket).

The best guided tour in English is the one from GetyourGuide Originals. It’s so great that they will give you a full refund if you don’t enjoy your time!

To book it, you just have to click on the button below:

Visiting the Acropolis Museum is one of the best things to do in Athens.

If you want a better understanding of the context and history of the Acropolis before visiting it, you should definitely go to The Acropolis Museum first . It displays nearly 4,000 ancient objects and artefacts found on the site!

The museum is very interesting and well designed. From the 3rd floor panoramic terrace, you will also have a magnificent view on the Acropolis . So why not go there to have a drink and enjoy the view?

You will find all the useful informations to plan your visit on the official website .

To avoid waiting in line, you can directly get a skip-the-line ticket for the Acropolis Museum here:

You can also book a guided tour of the museum by clicking here!

Another great place to see in Athens is The Ancient Agora.

The Agora was the main square of ancient Athens . It was considered as the cultural, political, commercial and social center of the city. Nowadays, the site is mostly in ruins, but still worth a visit, especially for The Temple of Hephaestus. Built during the Age of Pericles in 449 B.C, it’s one of the best preserved Doric temples in Greece.

You’ll also find a museum exposing objects discovered on the site, some statues and a scale model of the Agora to help you visualize how it looked like.

The visit of the Ancient Agora is included in the 30€ combined ticket .

Otherwise, the tickets for the Agora needs to be booked here!

If you enjoyed the Acropolis Museum, then you should really go to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

The museum has a worldwide reputation for its collection of splendid ancient objects . This impressive building offers more than 8,000 m² of exhibition space, where you’ll find fantastic collections aged from the Neolithic Era to the end of the Roman Period. Most of the collections are dedicated to the Greek civilization , but you will also find several rooms with Egyptian antiquities.

The most remarkable pieces exposed in the museum are:

• The golden Mask of Agamemnon , found in Mycenae
• A bronze statue representing a young horseman and its mount
• The statue of Zeus or Poseidon
• The Varvakeion Athena , a reproduction of the statue which once stood in the Parthenon.

For further informations about rates and schedules, you can visit the official website .

In order to avoid the long waiting line in front of the museum, you need to booking your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

If you want to enjoy a bit of greenery during your stay in Athens, then you should definitely take a walk in the National Garden and the Zappeion Park . The 2 are actually one and the same big park, making it the largest public park in Athens!

This is the best place to go if you want to relax and have a break far from the tourist crowd.

The park is located between The Panathenaic Stadium and Syntagma Square.

Syntagma Square, or “Constitution Square” in English, is Athens’ central square.

It’s also the city’s main gathering place , whether it’s for demonstrations or sporting events. The House of Parliament is located here since 1935, in an ancient royal palace built by the first King of Greece. It’s the center of Greece’s political life.

The Square is a must-see attraction in Athens. There, you’ll see the Changing of the Presidential Guard ceremony . The soldiers, also called “Evzones”, are guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, right in front of the Parliament House. Every hour, the changing takes place and you can attend a strange synchronized ballet.

Most of all, you’ll be amazed by the famous traditional uniforms of the Evzones with skirts, tights and pompom shoes!

You’re going to Athens?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in the large European capitals 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Athens on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Athens.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Athens, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Athens!

If you want to go shopping in Athens, it certainly will be on Ermou Street!

This pedestrian street goes from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki district . As it is Athens’ main commercial street , y ou’ll find here most of the big international brands (H&M, Zara, Marks & Spencer…) as well as many bars and restaurants.

Don’t forget to see the picturesque Byzantine Church of Kapnikarea! Located on Ermou Street, it was built in the 11th century.

To continue this Athens tourist guide, let’s go to Monastiraki district.

It’s located in the centre of Athens , alongside Plaka district. (I will tell you more about Plaka a bit later)

Monastiraki Square, with its Byzantine Church, is the heart of this lively and cosmopolitan neighbourhood. You’ll enjoy walking in its narrow alleys with lots of small shops of all kind. The atmosphere feels a bit like the souks in arabic countries ! Souvenirs, clothes, shoes or jewellery, you’ll for sure find everything you need.

Every Sunday, the famous Flea Market of Monastiraki takes place on Avissinya Square . M any antique and second-hand goods dealers are selling ancient books, silverware or leather goods. The negotiations are often tough, but you can find some nice things, especially if you get up early!

Another place you should visit in Athens is Plaka district.

The oldest district of Athens is often nicknamed “Neighborhood of the Gods” , as it’s located at the foothill of the Acropolis . Even if it’s a really busy and touristic area, Plaka managed to keep its picturesque charm, with its narrow alleys and pretty houses.

During your tour, you will enjoy Byzantine constructions , as well as neo-classical houses . With its many shops, it’s also a great place to buy local products or souvenirs.

While you’re there, you should definitely go to the tiny Anaflotika neighborhood . In this peaceful and quiet place with white houses and blue shutters , you’ll feel like you are in the heart of The Cyclades ! Don’t forget to go to the top of Stratanos Street , to enjoy a superb panorama over Athens.

If you want to admire a stunning view of the Acropolis , then you have to climb up to Mount Lycabettus!

The 278 meters high Mount Lycabettus is also called “Hill of the Wolves”, and is certainly the best place to enjoy a 360° panorama of Athens . At the top, don’t miss the charming Orthodox Chapel of St.George.

You can access the top of Mount Lycabettus:

• By foot: A 20-minute stairs path will take you to the top.
• By cable-car: The Lycabettus Funicular takes only 3 minutes to go to the summit. The round trip ticket cost 7€, and departure point is located at the crossing of Aristipou and Ploutarchou streets.

The Panathenaic Stadium , or Kallimarmaro is another famous tourist attraction in Athens.

It’s located in front of Zappeion Park’s Southern entrance.

The stadium was built in the 4th century B.C to host the Panathenaic Games , a sporting event held every year to honor the Goddess Athena . There, athletes were competing in track and field, wrestling and chariot races.

Originally made out of wood, it has been completely rebuilt in white marble a few centuries later. The stadium had a capacity of more than 70,000 spectators , and gladiator fights were also organized.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the stadium was abandoned, and the stones were reused elsewhere.

Much later, during the 19th century , the stadium was rebuilt to host the 1st Modern Olympic Games.

Nowadays, the stadium isn’t used for competitions anymore, as its dimensions no longer meet the required standards.

You can visit the inside of the stadium for 5€ . The entrance fee includes an audio guide and access to the track.

If you believe you’re out of things to see in Athens , and if you have visited the main neighborhoods, why don’t you go up to Philopappos Hill?

Also known as the Hill of the Muses , the site is one of the best viewpoints to see Athens and the Acropolis . You can walk to the top of this 147 meters high hill using one of the many pedestrian trails in around 10 minutes.

At the summit, you will have a panoramic view of the entire city, the port of Piraeus and the Attic Peninsula. If you are lucky enough to have a very clear weather, you’ll even see some of the closest islands! There, you can also admire the Philopappos monument , a mausoleum dedicated to the Roman senator Philopappos, considered as one of Athens’ benefactors.

On the site, don’t forget to see the church of Agios Dimitrios Lumbardiaris , the prison of Socrates , and the remains of the Shrine of the Muses.

The Roman Agora is another point of interest to visit in Athens . Don’t confuse it with the Ancient Agora I mentioned earlier!

The Agora, or Roman Forum is located in Plaka district . It was built between 19 and 11 B.C. There, you could find a large central market , several shops and public latrines.

The most remarkable elements of the Agora are:

• The Gate of Athena Archegetis , with its 4 well preserved columns.
• The recently renovated Fethiye Mosque , where temporary exhibitions are held.
• The Tower of the Winds : a marble tower built by Andronicus of Cyrrhus to be used as a compass, an horologion, and a weathercock.

If you are staying in Athens for a couple of days, you should take the opportunity to visit some museums.

For the cultural tourism enthusiasts, here are the other museums you should visit in Athens:

• The Numismatic Museum , exposing more than 500,000 coins and medals. Some of them are more than 3,000 years old!
• The Museum of Cycladic Art and its collections of objects from the Cyclades islands
• The Benaki Museum , the oldest museum in Greece, with it’s 40,000 pieces of art from the Ancient times to the beginning of the 20th century
• The National Gallery , with its artworks and sculptures from the post-Byzantine Era.
• Museum of Greek Folk Art , to get a look at Greece’s traditions!
• The Byzantine and Christian Museum
• The National Museum of Contemporary Art
• Athens war Museum , if you want to learn everything about Greece’s war history.
• The National History Museum

Where to go in Athens if you want to party all night?

You should definitely try Gazi district! This former industrial district has been refurbished to become the trendy place to go out at night in the Greek capital.

There, you can enjoy a drink on a trendy bar terrace , or try one of the many restaurants and night clubs . You’ll for sure find a place you’ll like in Gazi neighbourhood.

The surroundings of the Kerameikos metro station, and the streets of Dekeleon, Gargition and Voutadon are the busiest.

The 5 best things to do around Athens

You’re having a few days in Athens , and you have seen most of the city? Then, you should really go on a day trip to explore the city’s surroundings.

Here are the best places to visit around Athens:

You’ll find a lot of beaches near Athens . These beaches aren’t the ones you’ll find on Greece’s postcards. Yet, it’s still a good way to have a refreshing moment out of the city.

The Apollo Coast beaches , in the South of Athens, are the closest to city . The best part is that you can access them using public transports directly from Syntagma Square! The Apollo Coast, with its luxury private beaches, is often nicknamed “ the Athenian Riviera “. In the seaside resorts of Glyfada Beach, Voula Beach, Lagonisi Beach or Saronida Beach, you’ll enjoy a young, festive and luxurious atmosphere.

If you want to go to a more family friendly place or wilder beaches , you should try those located East of Athens . How about going to Schinias Beach, Kaki Thalassa Beach, Marathon Beach or Nea Makri?

Cape Sounion is located on the Southern end of the Attic Peninsula, around 1:20 hours drive from Athens.

According to Greek Mythology, King Aegus would have thrown himself from the cliffs here , thinking his son Theseus was dead. Theseus went to fight the Minotaur and had promised to change the black sails of his ship to white in case of victory.

Full of joy from his victory, Theseus forgot to change the sails of his ship. When his father saw the black sails, he thought his son was dead and committed suicide. From this time, the Aegan Sea is named after him!

At Cape Sounion, you’ll admire a temple dedicated to Poseidon , the god of the Sea and protector of the sailors. The place offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Saronic Gulf. You should go there at sunset, when the sunlight illuminates the temple’s marble columns!

This is the perfect place for a half-day tour around Athens. If you don’t have a car, you can take an organized tour .

Everything is planned on these tours: they will pick you up at your hotel and drive you along the Apollo Coast until you reach the Cape. The price includes the transfer, a guide and the Temple’s entrance.

The Saronic Islands are among the closest islands to Athens .

If you want to get there, the easiest way is to take a ship from the Port of Piraeus.

The best Saronic Islands to see are:

• Aegina , where you can visit the Temple of Aphaia and the remains of Paleochora, an ancient Byzantine village
• Agistri and its many small coves.
• Poros , for its pretty colored houses.
• Hydra, an island where cars are banned! It’s the perfect destination if you want to hike and enjoy beautiful beaches.
• Spetses , covered in pine trees and a great place to cycle! You need to book your bike tour around the island here.

If you only have one day to discover the Saronic Islands , you can book a cruise . Everything is included: from Athens, a bus will take you to the port of Piraeus, and you’ll sail to the islands from there.

During this cruise, you will visit the islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Lunch is even included.

You need to book it by clicking on the button below:

For an upscale experience , you can also opt for a cruise on a beautiful sailboat . It includes swimming time, lunch and free time on the islands. You need to book it by clicking here.

And if you want to take your time to discover the Saronic Islands, you can opt for a fantastic 3-day cruise. You will have the opportunity to visit the islands and enjoy swimming in the most beautiful places!

Accommodation in a double cabin , meals and a bus tour of Aegina island are included in the price.

You need to book your 3 day cruise to the Saronic islands here:

If you want to discover the countryside around Athens, you should definitely take a tour of the Peloponnese !

During your daytrip, you’ll see:

• The Corinth Canal for the souvenir photo!
• The archaeological site of Mycenae: this UNESCO World Heritage site was once King Agamemnon’s home.
• The city of Napflio , and the Palamidi Fortress.
• The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus , also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour includes the pick-up at your hotel, the transfer in an air-conditioned bus, a guide and the entrance tickets for all the sites. You can click here to book your tour.

Booking this tour is the best way to see some of the most famous places of Peloponnese in a short amount of time!

And if you want to know more about Peloponnese, you can read my detailed article : The 15 Best things to do in Peloponnese.

The famous Archaeological Site of Delphi is located 2:20 hours drive from Athens.

The site, built on Mount Parnassus , offers a splendid view of the valley and the sea. There, you’ll admire the Temple of Apollo (where the oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, transmitted Appolo’s directives from the gods to humans), the theatre and the stadium.

You should also visit Delphi Archaeological Museum . A lot of ancient vestiges found on the site are exposed there.

If you don’t have a car, organized tours starts from Athens every day . The price includes the transfer from and back to your hotel, a guide, and the entrances ticket to Delphi Archaeological Site and Museum. You can book your day trip to Delphi from Athens here.

To change a bit from the cultural visits, you should take advantage of your stay in Athens to try one or more activities!

In order to help you out, I have prepared a selection of the best activities to do around Athens . You simply need click on the orange links for more info and too book.

Water sports:

• Snorkeling excursion (half-day)
• Canyoning in Aspropyrgos Gorge
• Sea kayaking excursion along the Greek Riviera and towards Cape Sounion
• Coastal canyoning or coasteering : an activity similar to canyoning but done by the sea and not in a river. Includes swimming, jumping and climbing!
• Walking and swimming in a river with a guide – 2 courses to choose from
• First dive with theory course, 10 minutes training dive + 40 minutes dive to 10 meters deep
• 2 exploration dives for certified divers
• 3 day diving course to obtain your PADI Open Water Diver certification.

Activities:

• Paragliding flight offering a beautiful view over the mountains and the coast, 1 hour from Athens
• 3.5 hour bike tour in Athens or One day bike tour
• Mountain bike tour with a guide in the mountains around Athens – you can opt for a 2 or 4 hours tour depending on your level.
• Full day mountain bike tour to Cape Sounion and in the national park of Lavrio – Also available in the national park of Parnitha
• Bike tour to on the island of Spetses , including boat transportation from Athens
• A helicopter flight in the surroundings of Athens.

And if you’re really looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity , you should definitely do a skydive near Athens!

You came to Athens to enjoy the sunny and warm Mediterranean climate, but what are the best activities to do in Athens when the weather is bad?

Don’t worry, here is a list of the things to do in Athens when it rains:

• Visit the many museums to learn more about Greece’s History , traditions or art. If you read this article carefully, you’ll notice that I mentioned a lot of museums. This should keep you busy for a while!
• Go to Athens Central Market. You’ll find great local products in this covered market.
• Go shopping in one of Athens’ many Malls.
• Try an Escape Game : solve the riddles and try to escape in less than an hour! The Athens Clue Escape Game is also available in English.

To help you plan your family trip to Athens, you’ll find here a list of Athens best places to visit with your children!

• Visit The Eugenides Planetarium to discover the universe with your family
• Go to T he Hellenic Cosmos for a 3D virtual visit of Ancient Greece
• Take a walk in the National Garden, and let your children enjoy the playgrounds!
• Visit the Hellenic Children’s Museum, where kids can play merchant or construction games. It’s a miniature world, where everything is adapted to kids size!
• Spend a day at the Allou Fun Park & Kidom , Greece’s biggest amusement park!
• Enjoy the Attica Zoological Park , one of the classics of a family stay in Athens. You can buy your tickets here.

Now, I will give you a 1 day itinerary to visit Athens on foot . It will allow you to discover most of the city’s highlights.

And if you are spending more than one day in Athens , you can always split this walk: you just have to read my itineraries to visit Athens in 1, 2 or 3 days , a bit further down in this guide.

Let’s start this walking tour of Athens in Syntagma Square . There, you can observe the typical uniforms of the Presidential Guard, during the Changing of the Guard . Then, go through the National Garden and Zappeion Park , to arrive at The Panathenaic Stadium .

After that, go through the Leoforos Vasilissis Olgas Street , along the Zappeion to reach Hadrien’s Gate . In the same place, you’ll find the colossal Temple of Zeus , where there are only 15 columns left.

Continue by taking the Dionysiou Areopagitou Street , to reach the entrance of the Acropolis . You just have to decide if you want to visit it, or admire it from the outside.

Then, walk to Thrasillou Street and Stratanos Street to enter Anaflotika neighborhood . There, you’ll enjoy a beautiful panorama of Athens and the Acropolis.

Wander in the pretty alleys of Plaka and Monastiraki districticts . You’ll see the Roman Agora , the Ancient Agora , the Hadrien’s Library and the Monastiraki Square.

These neighborhoods are the best to go shopping in small shops. When you will be done, you can head to Ermou Street to continue shopping in Athens’ main commercial street!

To end your day, how about going to Mount Lycabettus or Philopappos Hill , to admire the sunset over the Acropolis?

Unlike other capitals such as Rome or London , the best places to visit in Athens are concentrated in a quite small area, making the visit very comfortable to do on foot!

You can visit most of the city’s Must-See Attractions in 1 or 2 days , even if you take some time to visit the museums and the main archaeological sites. If you are staying 3 days or more in Athens , you can even take a tour to visit the surroundings.

If you want to visit Athens, you should definitely buy the Athens City Pass.

It includes:

• The combined ticket for Acropolis and Archaeological Sites
• A skip-the-line ticket for the Acropolis Museum
• 10% discount on many activities, such as the Delphi or Cape Sounion tours.

You can buy it right here.

You only have one day to visit Athens ? No problem! Here is the best itinerary to make the most of your stay:

• Start your day by visiting The Acropolis , the most famous tourist attraction in Athens.
• Continue your visit with the Acropolis Museum to learn everything about the origins and the History of this ancient site.
• Lunch break
• After your meal, wander in the Plaka neighborhood . Located on the foothill of the Acropolis, it’s the oldest district of the city!
• After that, visit the Ancient Agora and its museum
• Then, you can go for a walk in Monastiraki
• At the end of the day, go to Philopappos Hill to see the sunset over The Acropolis
• And if you like to party, go to Gazi neighborhood for a drink or a night out!

If you want to see Athens’ best points of interest without visiting the monuments, you can also do the “How to visit Athens on foot” itinerary I have suggested you above in this travel guide.

If you have 2 days in Athens , in addition to the first day described above, you can add:

• Start with the visit of the Panathenaic Stadium
• Then go to Hadrien’s Gate and the Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Take a stroll in the National Garden & Zappeion Park
• Attend the Changing of the Guard on Syntagma Square
• Then, after your lunch break:
• Go to Ermou Street for some Shopping
• Visit The National Archaeological Museum
• For the sunset, head to the top Mount Lycabettus. It’s the best place in town to enjoy it!

If you spend 3 days in Athens , in addition of the 2 days above, how about visiting some of Athens other museums ? Whether you like Art, ancient coins, Greek folklore or History, you will for sure find an interesting museum!

Another great way to spend your 3rd day is to go on a day trip to visit Athens’ surroundings.

Here are the best ones:

• From Athens – Visit the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion : This day trip will take you to the Cape Sounion, located at the very end of the Attic Peninsula. After picking you up at your hotel, the bus will drive you along the scenic Coast of Appollo, famous for its beaches. Try to get a window seat, because the view is beautiful! Once you arrive, you will visit the Temple of Poseidon. Located on a hill, it offers a magnificent view of the surroundings.
• From Athens – Visit the Saronic Islands: Another option is to opt for a full-day cruise to the Saronic Islands. During the day, you will discover the islands of Poros, Hydra and Aegina. The lunch is included.
• From Athens – A full-day Mycenae and Epidaurus trip: You prefer to visit archaeological sites of Peloponnese? Then this day trip is perfect for you! It combines the visit of Mycenae Archaeological Site (and the Tomb of King Agamemnon) with Nafplio (the Palamidi Fortress) and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Entrance fees, transfer, guide and lunch are included.
• From Athens – A Day trip to Delphi: During this tour, you will have the opportunity to discover the Ancient Site of Delphi. Did you know that the oracles where delivered here? T he visit of the Delphi Museum is also included. E ntrance fee, transfer, professional licensed guide and lunch, everything is included in this tour!

With all these activities, you can even easily spend 4, 5 days or more in Athens!

• Bedbox Hostel: A Youth Hostel located 300m from Monastiraki Square, and 700m from the Acropolis. Dormitory room starting from 18€ per night. Strong points: the location, the really kind staff and the cleanliness!
• Evripides Hotel: Located 400m from Ermou Street and 500m from Monastiraki. The rooms are simple but comfortable, starting from 70€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the rooftop, the location (perfect to visit Athens on foot) and the friendly and helpful staff! A great choice in Athens for its exceptional value for money!
• Amalia Hotel: Located on Syntagma Square, just in front of the National Gardens. The double rooms are modern and spacious. Some of them even have a balcony with a nice view of the gardens. The price starts at 155€ per night with breakfast included. Strong points: The comfort, the generous breakfast, and the location in the centre of Athens.
• Wyndham Grand Athens: 5-star Hotel located 1km from Ermou Street and 1.5km from the Acropolis. You’ll love the elegant and design double rooms here, starting from 200€ per night. Breakfast will cost you 16€. Strong points: the outdoor pool on the roof, the view of the Acropolis, the spa center, and the location right next to a metro station!
• Electra Metropolis: This 5-star hotel is located only 200m from Syntagma Square and 600m from the Acropolis. The price for a spacious and comfortable double room starts at 270€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, the view of The Acropolis from the rooftop, the amazing restaurant, the pool. The best choice for a luxury stay in Athens!

• Tzitzikas kai Mermigas (literally The Ant and the Grasshopper): Don’t worry about the name, you’ll taste delicious Greek specialities here! They have 4 restaurants in Athens and the most central is located in Syntagma. In a cosy atmosphere, you will taste the classics of Greek cuisine. Don’t be afraid to share your dishes because the portions are very generous!
• BlueFish Athens: Located next to the Roman Agora, this restaurant offers fish and seafood based dishes. You’ll love the food here: the cuisine is a perfect mix of traditions, modernity and inventiveness! The place and the service are also very pleasant.
• Liondi Traditional Greek Restaurant: The restaurant is located in front of the Acropolis Museum. Some others restaurants in the same place might be tourist traps, but not the Liondi. You’ll enjoy its typical, tasty and generous cuisine. And if you’re really hungry, choose a meze tasting formula!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece , you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

I have created for you a tourist map of Athens and Greece , listing all the must see attractions and points of interest I have talked about in this article. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow on it.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your stay in Athens?

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini !
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
• Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
• Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece)

25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece)

If you’re like us then coming to the cradle of civilisation is like being a child in a candy shop. There’s no limit to the amount of Doric and Ionic temples, statues, vases and Archaic figurines we could devour before we get tired.

In museums you can see the ballot disks from Ancient Greek courts, and you can step into the Theatre of Dionysus, the very place where Euripides and Aristophanes staged their plays, or walk the Agora, knowing that your path will be the same once trodden by Plato and Socrates.

But Athens is far more than an archaeological site, from the jungle of concrete towers in the modern city to Plaka, a warren of alleys built over ancient Athens residential quarters. Punctuating the cityscape are hills like Mount Lycabettus and Philopappos Hill where you can get the lie of the land and see the Acropolis on its rocky throne.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Athens :

1. Acropolis

There’s nothing we can tell you that hasn’t been said many times about Athens’ ancient citadel.

The Acropolis is on an abrupt rocky outcrop above the city and has world-renowned Classical landmarks that people spend whole lifetimes waiting to see in the flesh.

The pinnacle of these is of course the Parthenon, but The Propylea, the Erectheion and the Temple of Athena Nike are indispensible, and you can skip the queues and get enthralling inside facts and titbits about ancient Greek democracy and philosophy with a registered guide.

The going is steep and slippery on timeworn marble, until you reach the flat summit, and be prepared for cranes and scaffolding, which are an understandable necessity for a World Heritage Site.

Recommended tour :  Athens Mythology Highlights Tour

2. Parthenon

Seen as the greatest achievement of the Doric Order and Classical Greece’s most significant building to make it to the 21st Century, the Parthenon is a symbol of western civilisation and Athenian democracy.

The Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena and begun in 447 BC, when the Athenian Empire was the dominant force in the Aegean.

Co-designed, by Ictinus and Callicrates, at that time it was a city treasury before becoming a church in the 6th century and then a mosque in the 1460s.

Notoriously, some of the Parthenon’s sculptures were plundered by The Earl of Elgin at the start of the 18th century and were later sold to the British Museum where they remain.

The remainder of the original frieze and pediment sculpture is the highlight of the Acropolis Museum, which follows.

Recommended tour : Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

3. Acropolis Museum

The work of Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, the Acropolis Museum in on the southeast slope and was unveiled in 2009 to present the many thousands of artefacts discovered on the archaeological site of the Acropolis.

Smartly oriented to give you constant views of the Parthenon, the museum is built over ancient ruins and much of the ground floor has glass panels and open spaces, showing the foundations below.

On three levels visitors are sent on a chronological trip through the centuries, starting with the hill’s archaic discoveries in a large trapezoidal hall that also has findings from the Erechtheion, the Propylaea gateway and the Temple of Athena Nike.

After this you go up to wonder at the marbles from the frieze (including metopes) and the pediments of the Parthenon in a hall with the same dimensions, column spacing and orientation as the temple.

The tour then continues back down, through Roman and early Christian Athens.

Skip the line :  The Acropolis Museum Skip-The-Line Ticket

4. Erechtheion

On the north side of the Acropolis is a temple to Athena and Poseidon, built in the Ionic Order from 421 to 406 BC. After antiquity this monument had all sorts of uses, as a Byzantine church, a palace in the Frankish period and much later a residence for the Ottoman commander’s harem.

The thing you have to see, and the Erechtheion’s defining image, is the southern Porch of the Maidens.

This has six magnificent caryatids supporting its roof, carved by Callimachus or Alcamenes.

The current caryatids are casts, and five of the originals are now in the Acropolis museum and a sixth is at the British Museum.

5. National Archaeological Museum

A veritable wonderland of ancient art, it’s fitting that Athens’ National Archaeological Museum should be one of the largest and richest in the world.

The galleries are jammed with star exhibits that have been beguiling scholars for generations.

Take the finds from the Atikythera wreck, identified in 1900 and dating back to the 4th century BC. This yielded the Atikythera Mechanism, the world’s oldest analogue computer and the contemplative Philosopher’s Head.

Then there’s the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold funerary mask from the 16th century BC , most likely made for Mycenaean royalty, though too early for Agamemnon.

See also the Eleusinian relief from the 5th century BC, as well as Bronze Age frescoes from the islands of Santorini and Thera and the Jockey of Artemision, a beguiling statue of a racehorse from 150-140 BC.

6. Temple of Hephaestus

Atop the 65-metre Agoraios Kolonos hill on the northwest side of the Agora of Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is a Doric peripteral temple in an amazing state of preservation.

It was built in the second half of the 5th century BC and construction was delayed for three decades because funds and labour were redirected towards the Parthenon.

Designed by Ictinus, the temple was dedicated to Athena and Hephaestus who was the ancient god of fire, metalworking, forges, sculpture and stonemasonry, and has six fluted columns on its west side and 13 on its north and south.

You can also make out plenty of sculpted elements, from the Labour of Hercules on the meotopes on the east side, to the pronaos and opisthodomos, which show Theseus with the Pallantides and the battle of Centaurs and Lapiths.

7. Museum of Cycladic Art

Beginning in the 1960s the couple Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris amassed the world’s largest collection of prehistoric art from the Cycladic Islands in the Aegean.

By the 1980s this was enough to fill a museum, which opened in 1986. There are more than 3,000 pieces of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot art at the museum, dating from 3,000 to the 4th century BC. But it’s the Cycladic marble figurines that draw the most acclaim.

If you love modern art you may notice uncanny similarities between their minimal, abstract lines and works by the likes of Giacometti and Henry Moore.

Book online : Museum of Cycladic Art Entry Ticket

8. Temple of Athena Nike

In a commanding position, raised on a bastion on the southeast slope of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike is from 420 BC and was the first complete Ionic Order temple on the hill.

It’s the most recent of a number of temples dedicated to Athena Nike at the Acropolis, the previous of which was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC. Conceived by Callicrates, this edifice is a tetrastyle Ionic temple with four elegantly narrow columns on its front and rear porticos that have the hallmark Ionic volutes or scrolls.

Fragments of the frieze and relief around the parapet below are on display at the Acropolis Museum, including the sublime wet drapery sculpture of the goddess fixing her sandal.

An antidote to both the silent ancient temples and traffic-heavy modern city, Plaka lies on top of ancient Athens’s residential quarters in the shadow of the Acropolis.

It’s a district of tight, twisting alleys with 19th-century facades garlanded with flowering bougainvillea in summer.

Plaka is jam-packed with family-run shops, each with something alluring, from ceramics, musical instruments, handmade jewellery to specialty food shops stacked high with olives and spices.

And whether you want to pick up a gyro or sit down to a meze Plaka is a go-to for dining and nightlife.

Below the rocky notheastern slope of the Acropolis is Anafiotika, a steep whitewashed neighbourhood settled in the 19th-century reign of Otto of Greece when workers moved here during the renovation of King Othon’s Palace.

Recommended tour :  Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour

10. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Now, not much of this temple east of the Acropolis has been left standing, but what remains is more than enough to tell you that it used to be vast.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus had an extremely long construction period, started in the 6th century BC but not completed until the rule of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd Century AD. In that time the prevalent order had switched to Corinthian, and the 15 surviving columns of an original 104 have scrolls and acanthus patterns.

The temple was pulled down during the Herulian sack of Athens in 267, little more than a century after it was completed , and its stone was quarried for other buildings around the city.

11. Benaki Museum

A near-complete chronology of Greek history and culture, the Benaki Museum was founded by the art collector Antonis Benakis in 1930. He set up the institution in memory of his father Emmanuel who had died the year before and was a prominent politician.

On three floors you can follow the course of Greek art from prehistoric times to the present.

The ground floor has surprisingly sophisticated Neolithic vases, as well as Archaic ceramics and figurines and Classical sculpture.

The first floor leads you through the late Byzantine period and Ottoman rule, and is endowed with religious icons and examples of folk costume.

Then after the cafeteria on the 3rd, the top floor has paintings, documents and weapons from the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire from 1821 to 1829.

12. Ancient Agora of Athens

Reserved for trade and public gatherings, the Agora was the centre of Classical Athens and is cushioned by the Acropolis to the southeast and the Agoraios Kolonos hill to the south.

It was drawn up in the 6th century BC and is a wide-ranging site with the ruins of more than 30 buildings and monuments.

Download a map, go slow and let you imagination wander.

Or hire a guide who will explain the ancient customs that once took place where you stand, like ostracism, in which potential threats to the state were preemptively forced into exile.

13. Museum of the Ancient Agora

One of the monuments in the Agora, the Stoa of Attalos, was totally reconstructed in the 1950s.

This covered walkway was first built by Attalos II in the mid-2nd century BC but was wrecked by the Herules in 267. The new building was as faithful as possible to the archaeological knowledge of the day and hosts the Museum of the Ancient Agora, showing off the artefacts brought to light during excavations in the area by the American School of Classical Studies.

Awaiting you are Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Geometric period figurines, weapons and vases recovered from tombs and wells.

You can also see some thrilling pieces relating to Athenian democracy in the Classical and Late Classical periods, like an official bronze weight, shards of pottery used in ostracism ballots (ostracons), clay measuring devices, bronze and lead ballot disks once used in trials.

Available tour: Athens : Guided Tour of Ancient Agora and Agora Museum

14. Panathenaic Stadium

Erected for the 1896 Olympics, the Panathenaic Stadium is a modern reconstruction of an ancient stadium built for the Panathenaic Games in 330 BC. Two hundred years later that ancient monument would be rendered in marble by the Athenian Roman senator Herodes Atticus.

With a U-shape layout, the Panethenaic Stadium is an almost exact replica of the construction from the 2nd century BC, and like its ancient ancestor is composed completely from marble.

It was seen around the world during the 2004 Athens Olympics when it staged the archery events and was the finish line for both the men’s and women’s marathon.

The stadium can hold 45,000 spectators and from its highest tiers you can see the Acropolis and the National Garden.

15. Mount Lycabettus

Unlike Athens’ most famous summit, Mount Lycabettus is free to climb on foot, but you can also take a funicular to the summit.

Northeast of the city centre, this cretaceous limestone peak rises to 300 metres and its lower slopes are decked in pine trees, which become sparser as you approach the rocky summit.

The walk is best saved for winter and not the searing Athens summer, while the funicular runs on the hour and half-hour.

At the top you’ll be bowled over by the best panorama of the city and can take your time to pick out the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Piraeus Coast and peaks like Pentelicus, which yielded the marble for the Acropolis, and the soaring Parnitha in the north.

16. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

This Roman-era concert hall was raised in 161 AD on the orders of the Athenian Magnate Herodes Atticus, most likely in memory of his wife Aspasia Annia Regilla.

At that time it had a roof made from cedar wood and could seat 5,000 until it was razed by the Herules in 275. Over the next 1,700 years, the monument faded into the earth, and visitors in the Medieval period had no idea what the ruins meant.

The first excavation took place in 1848 by archaeologist Kyriakos Pittakis and the man of letters Alexandros Rizos Rangavis, and witnessed by Otto of Greece.

The theatre was restored in the 1950s when the stone tiers were rebuilt using the same marble from Mount Pentelicus.

Get a seat for an evening concert to experience the Odeon as the Athenians would have done 2,000 years ago.

17. Philopappos Monument

The pine-clad elevation neighbouring the acropolis to the southwest is known as Hill of the Muses, but also the Philopappos Hill.

That name comes from Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince of the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st and 2nd centuries.

His death in 116 is said to have caused a great deal of grief to the citizens of Athens and not least his sister Julia Balbilla, who erected an lasting monument in his memory.

Two storeys high the monument has a frieze on its lower level showing Philiopappos as a Roman consul, on a chariot and preceded by lictors (bodyguards). The damaged upper section has sculptures of Antiochus IV, the last King of Commagene, and Philoppapos with an inscription in a niche below his image.

18. Byzantine and Christian Museum

By now you might be an expert on Archaic and Classical Greece, but the Byzantine period from around the 200s to the 1400s has a lot of wonders in store.

Housed in the neo-Renaissance Villa Ilissia from 1848, the Byzantine and Christian Museum opened in 1914 and was refurbished in time for the Olympics in 2004. There’s a bewitching assortment of sculptures, icons, frescoes, jewellery, architectural fragments, religious vestments, manuscripts, books and mosaics.

You’ll get to know its landmark events, like when Christianity was made legal by Constantine, and Roman power shifted from Rome to Constantinople in the 4th century.

The museum also studies the decline of Byzantine power, and how Venetian-controlled territories with cosmopolitan populations helped lay the path for the Renaissance in Europe.

19. Kapnikarea

A neat follow-up to the Byzantine Museum is this 11th-century church on Ermou Street, Athens’ poshest commercial artery.

Kapnikarea is among the oldest churches in the city and was consecrated around 1050. As was often the way with early Christian churches, Kapnikarea was built over an ancient Greek pagan temple, most likely to Demeter or Athena.

The colourful iconography in the interior is recent and was composed by the painter Photis Kontoglou in the mid-20th century, but there’s also older decoration in the church’s friezes and the sculpted column capitals inside.

20. Areopagus

There’s another hefty white outcrop amid the pines and cypress trees just northwest of the acropolis.

After taking care on the slippery marble steps, you’ll be able see the Port of Piraeus, the Acropolis and Athens Northern quarters from the Areopagus.

And being part of the Classical city there are plenty of myths associated with this rock.

One is the trial of Ares for the murder of Poseidon’s son Halirrhothius.

In the real world Areopagus was the place where the city council sat before the 5th century BC, until Ephialtes introduced reforms that stripped the council of its power.

After that time it remained Athens’ chief homicide court.

21. Theatre of Dionysus

European drama was born at the Theatre of Dionysus, which was first used for performances in the 6th century BC. Carved into the rocky southern slope of the Acropolis, it was the first theatre ever constructed.

The current design is from the middle of the 4th century BC, when the statesman Lycurgus oversaw the city’s finances, although a lot of changes were made later in the Roman period.

This monument is charged with meaning: The Theatre of Dionysus hosted the Dionysia Festival, entered by dramatists like Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides, Menander and Aristophanes.

It can be dumbfounding to realise you’re looking at the same stage where all of the Classical masterpieces were performed, many for the first time.

While Plaka is for sightseeing and shopping, Psiri has taken up the mantle of best nightlife quarter in Athens, with streets full of revellers until daybreak on weekends.

Psiri wasn’t always a place for outsiders, as from the foundation of the modern Greek state in 1828 to the 1990s the area had a fearsome reputation.

In the 19th century it was the haunt of Koutsavakides, a law unto themselves, with long moustaches, coats down to their ankles (for hiding their guns) and high-heeled pointed boots.

The last 20 years has rounded off Psiri’s edges, and there’s an endless choice of music tavernas, bars, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs for all tastes.

Related tour : Food and Wine Tasting Tour at Night

23. National Garden

In touching distance from Psiri and Plaka, the National Garden is a welcome green buffer between ancient Athens and the modern sea of concrete.

The National Garden was formerly the Royal Garden, opening up to the south of the Old Royal Palace and ordered by Amalia of Oldenburg at the end of the 1830s.

Come for a few minutes of repose, idling below the pergolas and avenue of lofty palm trees and bringing children to the two ponds to meet the turtles and ducks.

The park also has a small zoo with peacocks, birds of prey, wolves and monkeys, as well as a botanical museum.

And this being Athens, don’t be surprised to bump into some traces of the ancient city, like mosaics and columns.

24. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Under the facade of Old Royal Palace on Syntagma Square is a cenotaph for all Greek soldiers to have fallen during war.

The monument was sculpted in the early 1930s, blending French Empire design and Athens’ own ancient architecture, but also contemporary Art Deco which is particularly visible in the relief.

The tomb is watched by the Evzones (elite infantry) of the Presidential Guard and there’s a small changing of the guard ceremony on the hour every hour.

On the steps and wall flanking the monument are inscriptions recording battles in the First and Second Balkan War, the Greco-Turkish War, the First World War and the Second World War.

25. Eating on the Move

If you need to squeeze in a meal as you jump to the next temple or museum, Athens has something from morning to night.

Early in the day bakeries sell pastries like tiropita (cheese and egg) and spanakopita (spinach, feta and onions). Also big in the mornings is koulouri, a circular bread coated with sesame seeds and eaten fresh out of the oven, and bougatsa, another filo pastry filled with minced meat, semolina custard or cheese.

And if you need something more substantial there’s always the tried and trusted souvlaki, which is usually pork meat garnished with onions, tomatoes and tzatziki and wrapped in a pita.

Cheap and cheerful is the old-school staple patsa, a soup made with pig’s offal served at devoted patsa joints across the city.

25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece):

• Acropolis Museum
• Erechtheion
• National Archaeological Museum
• Temple of Hephaestus
• Museum of Cycladic Art
• Temple of Athena Nike
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Benaki Museum
• Ancient Agora of Athens
• Museum of the Ancient Agora
• Panathenaic Stadium
• Mount Lycabettus
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Philopappos Monument
• Byzantine and Christian Museum
• Theatre of Dionysus
• National Garden
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Eating on the Move

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 Must-See Historical Attractions in Athens

Athens: the birthplace of western civilisation. known for its expressive architecture, striking ruins, and picturesque landscape, there are a number of essential sites for any visitor to see..

Lucy Davidson

06 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

Western Civilisation owes a great deal to Athens. Many intellectual and artistic ideas originated there, and great thinkers were drawn to what was once one of the powerhouse cities of classical antiquity. As the cradle of democracy, classical Athenian architecture reflected the influx of ideas, with sprawling villas, vast monuments, and epic amphitheatres being just a few of the sites that have been left behind.

Today, the city is still dominated by landmarks which date to 5th-century B.C. and are hugely popular attractions. Here’s our pick of 10 that you shouldn’t miss.

What are the Top Ten Sites to Visit in Athens?

1. The Acropolis

Of all the places to visit in Athens, the Acropolis is by far and away the most popular. However, there’s more to this site than just the Parthenon temple for which it is best known.

Indeed, the Acropolis contains a number of other fascinating things to see, including the Erechtheion, the Propylaia and the temple of Athena Nike. Usually pretty swamped with tourists and guides, it’s not a particularly peaceful experience, but you simply can’t visit Athens without seeing the Acropolis.

2. Temple of Poseidon - Sounio

For truly spectacular views you can’t beat a short half- or full day-trip down to Sounio to see the Temple of Poseidon.

This partially ruined Greek temple sits atop a coastal cliff, with the deep blue ocean below combining to make for one picturesque backdrop – certainly one of the most picturesque places near Athens to visit. If you can catch it at sunset, then the scene will be complete. It’s roughly an hour out from Athens and there are loads of tour options available.

3. Theatre of Herodes Atticus

This partially restored Greco-Roman theatre is visually stunning. If you forgive the fact that much of the site is probably more Greco-Modern than Greco-Roman then you’ll definitely enjoy your visit.

Built by an affluent Greek-born Roman senator in the mid-second century AD, the theatre is startlingly photogenic and offers some great shots of the city. Though it’s not one of the most well-known Athenian sites, it’s nevertheless one of the most appealing.

4. Temple of Hephaestus

Strangely ignored by many lists of the best things to see in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is actually the best preserved of Athens’ ancient temples, and by quite some margin. It’s remarkably good condition is due to its conversion for use as a church in the 7th century.

Today it largely stands in its original form; remarkable given it was built almost 2,500 years ago. Despite all its clear advantages however, it has been and remains overshadowed literally and figuratively by the larger and more famous temple on the hill, the Parthenon.

5. The Parthenon

Unmistakably perched atop the Acropolis, many people come to Athens just to visit the Parthenon. Indeed, it always ranks among the top 10 places to see in Athens, often sitting at number one.

While there’s no doubt the Parthenon is impressive and you simply can’t come to Athens without visiting it, it gets hot and jam packed in the tourist season and it’s not as well preserved as some of the other ancient temples in Athens. Visit as early in the day as you can and be aware that there is on-going preservation work underway.

6. Agios Eleftherios

One of the more tucked away places to see in Athens, the charming Byzantine church of Agios Eleftherios is definitely worth a visit.

Built in the 12th century, it’s a beautiful example of later-Byzantine architecture. Located alongside the far larger Cathedral of Athens, this small yet perfectly formed medieval church is a pint-sized hidden gem among the hustle and bustle of Athenian life.

7. Panathenaic Stadium

A visually stunning stadium and the site of the first modern Olympic games, the Panathenaic Stadium is well worth a visit. Built on the site of its ancient predecessor, the sporting history of this place stretches back 2,300 years.

Today the site is one of the most fun things to do in Athens – you can explore the stadium, find out more about Olympic history, and even hold an Olympic torch! Great for kids, the track is open for visitors, so you can follow in ancient footsteps and gain your own Olympic glory.

8. Ancient Agora of Athens

If you’re mulling over what to see in Athens, the Ancient Agora is an interesting and easy to reach option.

Once the thriving heart of the city, today it contains the remains of a number of important ancient buildings as well as the impressive Agora Museum, contained within the reconstructed building known as the Stoa of Attalos.

9. Kerameikos

A hidden gem that takes a little extra effort to discover, Kerameikos seems very much to be the most ignored archaeological park in Athens.

However, this quiet and peaceful place definitely ranks among the more interesting and rewarding things to do in Athens. Containing the remains an ancient cemetery, Kerameikos includes the ruins of a series of famous monuments and even what’s left of the old city walls. The small museum helps to bring a bit of context to the site and is also well worth a visit.

10. Athens National Archaeological Museum

One of the most prominent archaeological institutions in the world, this great museum is absolutely packed with ancient artefacts – far too many to discover in one go!

Like any museum of this type, it can be somewhat exhausting once you’ve explored several dozen collections, and with such a treasure trove on show the novelty can wear off after a time. That said, with permanent exhibitions ranging from the Neolithic and Mycenaean, right through ancient Greece and into the Romans era, the museum is full of fascinating artefacts and stories and certainly ranks among the most interesting places to visit in Athens.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

30 Best Things To Do In Athens Greece In 2024

Athens in Greece is where I live. Our bustling capital has tons to offer, from ancient history to modern art to interesting neighbourhoods. Here are the 30 best things to do in Athens.

Athens: A city with many faces

“ Athens, the birthplace of western civilization and Greek philosophy “.

You’ve no doubt heard these words a thousand times! But that’s not all Athens has to offer. The Greek capital has many different faces.

The ancient side is important, but you can also visit modern museums, walk around quaint neighbourhoods, check out some cool shops and eat fantastic food.

Although the Greek capital is a big, chaotic city of just under 4 million people, the centre is fairly compact. It’s easy to get around on foot, by metro or taxi – I totally don’t recommend driving in Athens though! 

Here are just a few of my favourite things to do in the Greek capital. I’ve clustered those things together in sections that make logical sense. So, if you are not overly interested in our ancient past, just scroll down to the next entries!

1. Climb up the Acropolis Hill and see the Parthenon

Stereotype or not, you simply can’t come to Athens and not visit the Acropolis. Well, you can, but you’ll be missing out.

The Acropolis is an ancient citadel up on a hill, right in the heart of Athens. The area was first inhabited around 3,500-3,000 BC.

The most important temple inside the Acropolis complex is the Parthenon , which was built in the 5th century BC to honour the goddess Athena. Here’s a cool story about how Athens got its name .

Apart from the Parthenon, there are more temples inside the sprawling complex. You can see the Erechtheion, with the replicas of the famous Caryatids statues, and the temple of Athena Nike .

How to visit the Acropolis

I would suggest taking a guided tour of the Parthenon and the Acropolis . You will learn a lot about life in Ancient Athens, and appreciate why the world-famous temple is so important.

Of course, you can always visit on your own. I suggest you watch this video , which explains the history of the Parthenon. It will help you understand why Ancient Greece is considered the birthplace of western civilization.

Tickets for the Acropolis are available online , or you can get them at the entrance. In fact, there are actually two entrances to the Acropolis, and you can get your ticket there. However, if you are visiting in the peak season, it’s best to book your ticket in advance.

Choose between a single ticket to the Acropolis, or the combined ticket for all archaeological sites in Athens , which allows you to visit seven ancient sites. If you have more time in Athens, this is definitely a better option.

You can also look out for these Acropolis free days . 

Closest metro: Acropolis

2. Stroll around the Ancient Agora

Close to the Acropolis, you will find the archaeological site of Ancient Agora. This is one of my favourite places around Athens, not only due to its historical significance, but also because of its natural beauty.

The Agora was the most important place in ancient Athens. This is where everything happened – shopping, socializing, discussing. There were several temples, altars, statues, and many impressive buildings.

One of the highlights of the Ancient Agora is the temple of Hephaestus , the best preserved temple of Ancient Greece. Visitors can see more ancient ruins everywhere around the site.

Allow enough time for the excellent Ancient Agora museum , hosted inside the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos . There is a lot of information and artifacts shedding some light on life in Ancient Athens.

Here is my complete visitor’s guide to the Ancient Agora . Allow at least a couple of hours to see it properly.

Tip: There is also a Roman Agora. This is an entirely different archaeological site, and its most famous landmark is the Tower of the Winds.

Closest metro: Monastiraki / Thisseio

3. Visit the temple of Olympian Zeus

A short walk from the Acropolis metro station, across the busy avenue, you will see what’s left of the imposing temple of Olympian Zeus .

The temple of Zeus was dedicated to the king of the 12 Olympian gods . It was one of the largest temples in ancient Greece, consisting of 104 massive columns.

The temple was built over many centuries. Its construction started in the 6th century BC, and was completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, a man who deeply admired the ancient Greek civilization, in 131 AD.

Today, only 15 columns remain, and they are undeniably impressive. You can even spot them when you are up on the Acropolis hill!

At the moment, the temple is undergoing restoration work, and there is scaffolding all around the columns. The photo above is an old photo, to show you what it usually looks like! 

Side note: During the time he lived in Athens, Hadrian had commissioned several ambitious works. Today, we can see the ruins of Hadrian’s Library and the innovative aqueduct. A massive gate close to the Temple of Zeus, known as Hadrian’s Gate, was built in 131-132 AD to honor him.

4. Explore the National Archaeological Museum

If I only had time for one historical museum in Athens, I would visit the National Archaeological Museum.

This fantastic collection offers a great overview of Ancient Greece. Among others, you will see the statue of Zeus / Poseidon, the child on the horse, and the golden mask of Agamemnon, the mythical King of Mycenae.

There is also an impressive section with Egyptian artifacts. Often, there are temporary exhibitions, so check in advance.

Most first-time visitors go to the New Acropolis Museum, which is also more conveniently located. Yet, the National Archaeological Museum will give you a much better understanding of Ancient Greece.

Allow for three or four hours if you want to see the whole museum. You can always take a break in the quiet café downstairs.

Closest metro: Omonoia / Victoria

5. Visit the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum opened in June 2009. Since then, it has been attracting millions of visitors who are interested in finding out more about the Acropolis.

The museum hosts artifacts, such as sculptures and statues, that were discovered in the wider area. Its most famous exhibits are the five original Caryatids statues, which were removed from the Erectheion in the Acropolis to be protected from pollution.

Located literally across the street from the Acropolis itself, the museum also has a fantastic cafe, which offers a unique view of the ancient citadel.

Athens has many more museums offering an insight to Greek history, such as the museum of Cycladic art or the Byzantine and Christian museum. Have a look at my article with 20 of the best museums in Athens , and you will definitely find a few more to visit.

6. Stop by the Panathenaic Stadium

Even if you aren’t really into ancient monuments, you will definitely be impressed by the massive Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.

The majestic stadium was originally built in the late 4th century BC to host the Great Panathenaia, a range of athletic games dedicated to goddess Athena.

During the Roman era, a lot of restoration and reconstruction took place, and the stadium’s capacity expanded to a whopping 50,000 people. When Christianity prevailed, however, the stadium fell into decline.

In the late 19th century, it was decided to revive the Ancient Olympic Games , that had been originally held in Ancient Olympia. For this purpose, the Panathenaic stadium was restored, and held the first modern Olympics in 1896.

Today, the stadium is open to visitors, and you will definitely be impressed by its size and geometry. There is also a small museum including memorabilia from previous Olympics. Occasionally, you may catch a concert here.

For more information about stadium Panathenaic, check this article .

Closest metro: Syntagma / Acropolis

7. Climb up Areopagus / Areios Pagos

If you want the best views of the Acropolis, the coolest place to go is Areopagus Hill. It is a small hill, or perhaps a large rock, very close to the ancient citadel.

In Ancient Athens, Areios Pagos was the city’s court. Cases of homicide, arson and sacrilege were taken here. The hill is also where the Apostle Paul delivered his famous speech in 51 AD.

The Rock can get busy on different times of the day, especially at sunset. It’s one of my favourite spots in the city, and I’ve seen several sunsets (and a couple of sunrises) here!

Here is some more information on the Areopagus Hill in Athens .

Closest metro: Acropolis / Thisseio

8. See a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

If you are visiting summer in late spring, summer or autumn, you should definitely check for any concerts or performances at the Herodes Atticus Odeon, or Herodion as we call it.

The grand odeon was commissioned in the 2nd century AD by a wealthy philosopher / orator, Herodes Atticus. He built the theater in memory of Regilla, his late wife.

Like other ancient buildings, Herodion fell into disuse for several centuries. It was restored in the 1950s, and since then it has been used for performances and concerts. Seeing a show here is really an experience!

Check out more ancient theatres in Greece in this article .

9. Watch a movie at a summer cinema

Athens is famous for its summer cinemas. Watching a movie at an outdoors cinema is a very traditional Greek thing to do in summer.

Two of the most iconic summer cinemas in Athens are “ Thisseio “, on Apostolou Pavlou, and the iconic “ Cine Paris ” in Plaka. Where else in the world can you watch a movie within walking distance from the Acropolis?

10. Observe the Changing of the Guards

The image of the Greek Guards with their traditional uniforms is one of the symbols of Athens. The Evzones are guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a cenotaph dedicated to all the soldiers who lost their lives fighting for Greece. 

Day and night, rain or sun, the Changing of the Guard happens 24/7, every hour, on the hour. People gather in front of the Greek Parliament building, right on Syntagma Square , to watch this popular event.

On Sundays, the ceremonial changing of the guards takes place at 11 am. Go early, to find a good spot.

Here is some more info:   Changing of the Guards . 

Closest metro: Syntagma

11. Visit the National Gardens

The National Gardens are right next door from the Parliament building, close to Syntagma Square. You can easily visit right after you’ve seen the Changing of the Guards.

Designed by Queen Amalia, the wife of King Otto, the National Garden is one of the loveliest green spaces in central Athens. It’s a great place to take a break on a warm summer day .

Here is some more info: The National Garden in Athens

12. Walk on Dionysiou Areopagitou Street

This long, pedestrianized road is one of my favourite areas in Athens. If I only had a half day in Athens, I would visit the Acropolis and then  walk this beautiful route .

Begin your walk at the Acropolis metro station, and follow Dionysiou Areopagitou street towards Thisseio. At some point, the name of the street changes into Apostolou Pavlou.

As you are walking, you will see the Acropolis , Areios Pagos and Ancient Agora to your right. The green hills to your left are Filopappou and Nymphs Hill . You can hike up for some great views of the Acropolis.

Along the route, you will see buskers, artists and local vendors, selling jewelry and souvenirs. Who knows, maybe you would see similar people in Ancient Athens!

You can read more here:  Pedestrian-friendly Athens

13. Wander around Plaka neighbourhood

Few neighbourhoods in Athens are as well-known as the iconic Plaka. The tiny neighbourhood is located at the foot of the Acropolis, and is a popular place for visitors to stay.

Alongside cafes and restaurants, you will find beautiful neoclassical buildings, a few interesting museums and all sorts of shops.

Here is some more information: Plaka in Athens Greece

Closest metro: Acropolis / Syntagma / Monastiraki

14. Discover the quaint Anafiotika

Just above Plaka, and below the Acropolis, there is an even smaller neighbourhood called Anafiotika.

This is one of the strangest areas in central Athens. The houses look like they were built on the Greek islands! And rightly so, as the people who built them originally came from some of the Cyclades islands, like Anafi.

Allow for an hour to explore this quirky neighbourhood, and be prepared for some steep and uneven steps.

Here is some more information about Anafiotika and its fascinating history: Anafiotika in Athens

15. Explore the quirky neighbourhood of Psiri

Another tiny neighbourhood in central Athens is Psiri, just off Monastiraki square. It’s an all-day hangout for locals, and is full of shops, cafes and places to eat.

During the day, you will find plenty of traditional, old-fashioned shops selling all types of household goodies that you never knew you needed.

In the evenings, Psiri is a vibrant, lively little area, with plenty of tavernas and cool, relaxed bars.

Read more here: Psiri in Athens

Closest metro: Monastiraki

16. Experience the central food market

The Varvakios central food market in Athens is really quite unique. It is located on Athinas street and the side streets, just a five minute walk from Monastiraki square.

There are separate sections for meat, fish and fruit and vegetables. On top of that, there are numerous shops selling local goodies like cheese, Greek yoghurt, nuts, rusks and olive oil.

Unlike some other food markets in Europe, the central market in Athens is authentic, maybe even quite raw. This is where I do some of my own shopping, and I love it!

Read more here: Varvakios food market  

17. Explore the bustling Athens markets and shops

Apart from the Varvakios, Athens is home to many more markets. Most areas of the city are full of tiny shops selling everything possible. Moreover, there are many open-air markets.

People who are interested in antiques and all sorts of old stuff should head to Monastiraki flea market , on Ifestou street and the nearby side alleys.

Even though it’s a lot more commercial than it used to be, its a good place in central Athens to find all sorts of things, including some tourist souvenirs.

Nearby, you can find Ermou street and its side streets, which are good for mainstream shopping. This is also the best area in Athens for fabrics, beads and all sorts of art materials.

Note that commercial stores are closed on Sundays, but you will then find numerous other open-air markets at the outskirts of the city.

For more information, check out these other guides:

• What to do on a Sunday in Athens
• Shopping in Athens
• The best Greek souvenirs

18. Hike up Mount Lycabettus

If you haven’t had enough hills and viewpoints, you can go up Lycabettus hill, known in Greek as Likavitos. It’s a bit out of the tourist centre, but still a comfortable walking distance.

You can reach the top after a short hike, but you can also take a taxi or the cable car. The views from the chapel of Agios Georgios are pretty cool. I love visiting at sunset! Here’s some more information on Mount Lycabettus .

On your way down, stop at Kolonaki area to have a drink and watch the people go by.

Closest metro: Evangelismos

19. Check out the cool street art in Athens

Did you know that the word “graffiti” comes from the Greek word “γράφω / grafo”, which means “to write”? It shouldn’t be a surprise, then, that Athens is one of the best European capitals for street art.

Walk around Psiri, Kerameikos, Metaxourgio and Anafiotika meighbourhoods, and you will see some fantastic murals and smaller artworks. Venture into Exarchia, the area next to the National Archaeological Museum, and you will discover lots more.

If you are feeling adventurous, take the metro to Katechaki, on the blue line, and head into the University campus. You will find some of the best and less photographed street art in our city. 

Here are a few photos: Street art in Athens

20. Visit the new National Gallery in Athens

The much awaited National Gallery is finally open to the public! It’s a must-see place to visit in Athens if you are interested in art.

This brand new modern building features hundreds of works by prominent Greek artists. Just a few of them – Fasianos, Tsarouchis, Parthenis, Engonopoulos, Kontoglou and my favourite, Hatzikyriakos-Ghika.

You will see a great selection of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and several installations by contemporary artists.

Some of the Gallery’s highlights include works related to the Greek Independence Day .

21. Explore the temporary art exhibitions at Benaki Pireos museum

The Benaki Museum on Pireos street is my favourite art museum in Athens. I can’t remember the number of times I’ve visited! It hosts temporary art exhibitions, featuring Greek and international artists.

This museum is part of the Benaki foundation, which has several more museums around Athens and Greece. The main Benaki museum in Kolonaki area is a great place to visit if you want to get a glimpse of Greece’s very long history over the millennia.

You can find more information about the different Benaki collections and exhibitions on their official website .

Closest metro: Kerameikos

22. Taste the delicious Greek food

No visit to a foreign country is complete if you don’t taste all of the amazing food! And Greece has lots to offer in that respect.

From our rich meat dishes and hearty pies to our healthy salads and light grilled fish, the  Greek cuisine  is quite versatile.

Top that with various types of cheese and dozens of vegetarian dishes, and you will have an amazing experience! 

Here are  50 popular Greek dishes  for you to taste. Includes popular snacks like koulouri and spanakopita , the famous Greek salad, souvlaki and mousaka , and plenty of other traditional Greek dishes that you may not have heard of.

There are also numerous food tours you can take in Athens. This food tour gets some of the highest ratings, and it’s ideal if you want a local’s introduction to our rich and diverse cuisine.

23. Have a frappe and a Greek coffee

Visitors often joke that Greeks seem to be addicted to coffee. Well, it’s true. Having a coffee with a friend or ten is one of our most popular pastimes!

There are many types of coffee in Greece . Some of the most popular ones are served ice-cold. They are frappe, freddo espresso and freddo cappuccino.

When it comes to hot coffee, you will find the staples, like filter coffee, espresso, cappuccino and instant coffee. You should also try the Greek coffee, a somewhat thicker drink with an earthy flavour. Do not, I repeat do not, drink the sediment 🙂

When it comes to coffee drinking, my suggestion is to do it like the Greeks – take your time!

24. Taste our local drinks – ouzo, tsipouro and wine

Most people will have a drink or two when on holiday. And in that respect, Greece won’t disappoint!

Local drinks you could taste here include the famous ouzo , the strong tsipouro , or raki , and hundreds of types of wine and beer.

Tip: Ouzo is stronger than you may think at first. My best suggestion is to water it down, and combine it with food. After all, you don’t want to miss on tomorrow’s sightseeing! Here’s how best to enjoy Greek ouzo .

Here is some more information on Greek drinks .

25. Have a drink with a view of the Acropolis

Ten or fifteen years ago, bars with a view to the Acropolis were pretty hard to find. Crazy! Nowadays, there are plenty, especially if you include the rooftop bars of recently opened hotels.

Two of the my favourite rooftop bars with a view to the Acropolis are 360 and A for Athens near Monastiraki Square. Many hotel bars in Plaka, Monastiraki and Koukaki areas also offer great views.

Depending on where you are staying in Athens, you may even be able to see the Acropolis from your balcony!

26. Enjoy the nightlife in Athens

If a relaxed drink at a rooftop bar doesn’t exactly qualify as nightlife for you, don’t worry. Athens is a city that never sleeps!

Areas in the centre to go bar-hopping include Psiri, Syntagma, Kolokotroni street and the numerous pedestrian side alleys.

Kerameikos area also gets very lively – though mature people might find it too lively for their taste. This is a euphemism so hopefully you can read between the lines!

It’s important to know that, sadly, dancing is not so common over here. Yet, you will find venues where people dance. You can ask for parties in this FB group .

27. Check out some live music

Athens is a paradise for live music lovers. You can find all types of live music, including the traditional Greek rebetika , contemporary Greek musicians and international artists.

You can often catch bigger concerts at the following venues:

• Megaron – The Athens concert hall
• Athens Technopolis
• Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre  
• Gazarte Athens Cultural Hub
• Gagarin live music space
• Kyttaro live club

For small, intimate gigs, watch out for any posters close to where you are staying. You can also check Facebook events, though they are likely to be in Greek.

28. Go for a swim at the Athens Riviera

People planning to visit Athens in summer, will soon realize that the weather over here gets hot! If you have time, you can escape to the coast for a few hours.

Areas like Faliro, Alimos, Glyfada and Voula are easy to reach on the tram, by bus or taxi. You will find plenty of urban beaches and seaside cafes where you can take a break from all this sightseeing.

There are also more beaches on the other side of the coast, close to the port of Rafina, Nea Makri and Marathon. Some of them are wild, with no facilities.

Tip: Marathon is the starting point of the Athens Classic Marathon race , which happens every November. It is just over 42 kms away from central Athens. 

29. Take a half-day trip to the Temple of Poseidon

If you’ve had enough of our busy city, you can take a half day trip to Sounio area, about 70 kms from central Athens. Here, you can visit the majestic temple of Poseidon .

The temple is built right on the edge of the Attica peninsula, and views towards the Aegean sea are really stunning. Try to go for sunset if you can.

You can get there independently by public bus, rental car or taxi. Or you might prefer to take an organized tour to the Temple of Poseidon .

30. Go to Piraeus port and take a ferry to the Greek islands

Close to Athens, you will find the port of Piraeus. Here is where ferries depart for most of the Greek island groups .

The islands closest to the Greek capital are the Saronic islands, like Hydra or Aegina, which you can easily visit on a day trip from Athens.

There is also the Cyclades group, which includes the well-known Mykonos , Santorini and Milos .

Here are three guides that will help you plan your trip independently:

• Island hopping in Greece
• Island hopping in the Cyclades  
• Islands near Athens

Unless you are travelling in low season, I suggest that you book your ferry tickets in advance. Ferryscanner is a great platform where you can compare routes and prices, and book your tickets.

FAQs about Athens

Here are some questions asked by people who take a trip to Athens:

What should I avoid in Athens?

Like everywhere, be mindful of pickpockets, especially when you are in crowded areas, including the metro and airport metro. Take pre-booked taxis wherever possible, as sadly the old overcharging habit is still in place. Last but not least, never leave your mobile phone or other valuable item on the table as you are having a coffee, as it might disappear out of thin air.

Is 2 days in Athens enough?

Two days in Athens is nowhere near enough to see everything. Still, you will get an idea of our city. You can visit the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Acropolis Museum, the National Gardens and the Panathenaic stadium. You can also see the Changing of the Guards, explore a few neighbourhoods like Plaka and Anafiotika, and taste many of our local food and drink.

Is Athens worth visiting?

As I’m an Athenian, I’m biased! Yes, Athens is totally worth visiting. Where else can you experience this mix of ancient and byzantine history, combined with modern art, funky nightlife, lovely food and a lively coastline?

Is Athens a walkable city?

People who like walking will not really need to use any public transportation in Athens. The centre is quite compact, and you can pretty much walk everywhere. Just bring comfortable walking shoes.

Which area of Athens is best to stay in?

The best areas to stay in Athens city center include Plaka, Monastiraki, Psiri, Thisseio, Syntagma and Koukaki. If you are happy to walk, these areas are walking distance from each other and you will be able to explore the city on foot.

Do they speak English in Athens?

English is widely spoken in Athens, especially in the more popular areas. Still, it doesn’t hurt to learn a few words in Greek !

Best things to do in Athens

These are just a few of the best things to do in Athens. As you see, the city has lots to offer, which is why you could consider spending more than a couple of days!

Here are a few more Athens guides that you will find useful:

• 2 days in Athens itinerary
• Itinerary for 3 days in Athens
• 15 free things to do in Athens
• The best day trips from Athens
• Celebrations in Greece

Hi! I am Vanessa, and I was born and raised in Athens. I love my city’s many different faces! The above list should help you plan your time in Athens, especially if it’s your first time here. Feel free to ask any questions right below, or get in touch on my FB page .

2 thoughts on “30 Best Things To Do In Athens Greece In 2024”

Hello, I have found your description of Athens and its hive of places to visit extremely valuable as my wife and I will visit first weekend in November. Thanks for the information kindest regards Bob Lewis

Thank you very much for your comment!! So glad it helps! Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions 🙂

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18 Places to Visit in Athens + Things To Do

Athens is situated in the southern part of Greece and is the birthplace of Democracy. Athens is well known for its iconic Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Parthenon which drives numerous tourists to Athens each year. Athens is famous for its extensive history and ancient sites, but this beautiful city has so much more to offer. Athens offers everyone something they will enjoy, including beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, lively nightlife, and delectable food. You can discover day trips from Athens to Delphi and explore the beautiful Archaeological ruins. Enjoy the Meteora monasteries in Thessaly Valley. Visit Mycenae and see Lion’s gate and other ancient ruins.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Athens travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Athens Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

See also: Athens Itinerary + Travel Guide .

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Half Day Guided Tour From Athens

Athens Airport (ATH) Private Transfers for Athens

Delphi Day Tour from Athens

Delphi and Meteora 2-Day Tour from Athens

Poros, Hydra, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch from Athens

Acropolis Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket

View all travel tips on: Athens .

Where to stay in Athens:

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Splurge / Syntagma

See discounts

Mid-Range / Syntagma

Hotel Lozenge

Mid-Range / Syntagma Metro / Kolonaki

Emporikon Athens

Mid-Range / Monastiraki

Concierge Athens

Budget / Monastiraki

Athens Studios

Budget Backpacker / Acropolis Metro / Koukaki

Bedbox Hostel

Budget Backpacker / Monastiraki

Athens Backpackers

1. The Parthenon

Location : Acropolis of Athens, Central Athens, Attica, Greece . Save on Google Maps .

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Acropolis Hill

Location : Central Athens . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Acropolis Ticket in Athens

Athens Acropolis and Cape Sounio One Day Tour with Lunch

3. Acropolis Museum

Location : Dionysiou Areopagitou 15 . Save on Google Maps .

Athens and Acropolis Walking Day Tour

iVenture Athens Unlimited Attractions Pass (1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 Days)

4. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Location : Leof. Vasilissis Olgas St. East of Acropolis Hill . Save on Google Maps .

Temple of Olympian Zeus Skip-the-Line Ticket + Self-Guided Audio Tour

5. Hadrian’s Arch

Location : Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias 50. Northwest corner of Temple of Olympian Zeus. . Save on Google Maps .

6. Roman Agora in Athens & Other Archeological

Location : Polignotou 3 . Save on Google Maps .

7. Changing of the Guards & Syntagma

Location : Monument of the Unknown Soldier, Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias 133 . Save on Google Maps .

8. Panathenaic Stadium

Location : Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou . Save on Google Maps .

The Olympic Games Workout in Athens

9. Athens Trilogy

Location : Omonoia 30 . Save on Google Maps .

10. Zappeion & National Garden

Location : Leof. Vasilissis Olgas . Save on Google Maps .

11. Lycabettus Hill

Location : Neapoli neighborhood . Save on Google Maps .

12. Explore Athens’ Interesting Neighborhoods

13. Enjoy Greek Food

Beyond Athens

14. Meteora

Location : Kalabaka, Greece. 359 km drive northwest of Athens. . Save on Google Maps .

Meteora Day Tour from Athens with Train

15. Cape Sounio & Temple of Poseidon

Location : Cape Sounio, Sounio 195 00, Greece. Southeast of Athens. 67 km drive from Central Athens. . Save on Google Maps .

16. Peloponnese

Location : Skiritida, Greece. West of Athens. . Save on Google Maps .

17. Saronic Islands

Location : Saronic Gulf. Group of islands just off the south coast near Athens. . Save on Google Maps .

Location : ‎Phocis‎, Greece . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Athens that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Athens

Athens tourist spots, things to do in Athens, where to go in Athens & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Athens

The best places to stay are the areas surrounding Acropolis Hill, including Plaka, Syntagma, and Monastiraki. Many of  Athens ' top tourist spots are clustered within these districts & are easily reached by walking. Some areas of Thissio/Makriyanni, Koukaki, and Psiri that are conveniently located as well. Make sure to check if the property is located near the Acropolis or Monastiraki metro stations. Consider Omonia and Kolonaki/Lycabettus (Likavittos) if you want to get away from the main tourist districts & experience the more local side of  Athens .

Novotel Athens

Athinais Hotel

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Athens hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Athens, Greece

Here are the landmarks, archaeological sites, and neighborhoods that no one should miss during their trip to Athens.

There is a rumor circulating around flight crews that the most beautiful city from above is no other than Athens. Its hilly landscape features vast olive groves, palm tree-lined coastal avenues, and urban neighborhoods sprawling across the Attican peninsula. The sight is breathtaking. Upon landing, however, visitors are met with a surprising realization: this European capital is profoundly different from the slow-paced, traditional Greek countryside.

There are so many things to see and countless more events to attend. The quirky architecture and urban planning, the growing population that exceeds three million people, and the wide list of “must-sees” can be overwhelming. To save you some time, here is a curated list of the top ten places to visit in Athens (also read this article for our list of Athens’ must-visit museums).

1. The Acropolis Hill

Although Athens has at least seven hills of historical significance, the most prominent is the Acropolis — the acro (high) of the polis (city). The limestone rock is more than a citadel. Since antiquity, it has been a major religious site and the epicenter of the infamous Periclean building program.

Taking place during Greece’s classical era , the program involved the construction of marvelous temples made of Pentelic marble. The temples were dedicated to ancient Greek deities, with the most prominent one, the Parthenon , being associated with the goddess Athena , the patroness of the city. Other temples include but are not limited to the Erechtheion, the Sanctuary of Zeus Polieus, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

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Today, the Acropolis Hill is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece. Although it is no longer an active site for religious ceremonies, it stands as a symbol of Greece’s Classical Era. After all, Athens is known as the “cradle of Western civilization”, and its main landmark, the Parthenon, stands as a universal symbol of the ideas and values of the West.

Situated at the heart of the city, the Acropolis Hill can be reached by following the iconic Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, near the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis metro station. Children under five and young European citizens can enter the site for free, whereas regular tickets cost around 20€, depending on the season. On certain Sundays and selected dates, all visitors can enter the sight for free.

2. Plaka and Anafiotika 

Surrounding the Acropolis Hill, visitors can find two of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Athens. The streets and low-rise houses of Plaka and Anafiotika are commonly found on postcards from Athens. Thanks to the limited car access to the area, both neighborhoods offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Although their names are often used interchangeably to describe the northeastern area surrounding Acropolis Hill, the two neighborhoods have their own distinct character and charm.

Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Athens, recognized for its neoclassical buildings , iconic art cafes, outdoor cinemas, and numerous souvenir shops. Visitors are encouraged to walk around its narrow pathways and explore what the neighborhood has to offer. Through doing this they can discover various galleries and lesser-known museums, such as the Frissiras Museum .

Due to the large number of tourists that gather around Acropolis Hill, it is not uncommon to come across various tourist traps in Plaka. However, exploring the neighborhood is a must when visiting Athens for the first time.

Anafiotika is a distinct neighborhood within Plaka that can be reached via Prytaneiou Street, right behind the Byzantine Church of St. Nikolaos Ragavas . Contrary to the elegant neoclassical buildings of Plaka, with their distinct ornate pediments and symmetrical facades, the houses of Anafiotika exude a rural ambiance. After a long walk up and down the alleyways leading to the neighborhood, visitors often feel as if they entered a portal to the Cyclades.

Constructed in the late 19th century by the builders of the Royal Palace of Athens (currently known as the Hellenic Parliament), Anafiotika is an islanding enclave within Athens. Locals and visitors distinguish it from its white-washed cube houses, outlined flagstone alleyways, and vibrant bougainvillea planters, all characteristics of the Cycladic architecture. That is because its first residents originated from the island of Anafi — hence the name “Anafiotika.”

3. Syntagma and 4. The National Gardens 

After visiting the Acropolis Hill, Plaka, and Anafiotika, travelers often find themselves in the less touristy parts of Athens. Just one subway stop away from Akropoli, there is Syntagma Square, one of the most common meeting places for Athenians. Right there, visitors can admire the Hellenic Parliament and the former Royal Palace of Athens. They can also witness the change of the guards in front of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier that stands nearby.

A few steps away from Syntagma Square, a green oasis awaits those who seek a break from the concrete jungle that is the center of Athens. You will recognize it by the tall palm trees that invite the visitor to enter its green iron gates. The National Gardens of Athens were designed by the German agronomist Friedrich Schmidt in 1840, following the request of the first queen of Greece, Amalia of Oldenburg . Known initially as the “Royal Gardens,” the park includes ponds, a zoo with small animals, and a great variety of plants from all around the world. Those who are lucky can witness non-endemic birds, such as exotic green parrots, flying from tree to tree. It is not clear whether those birds were released there by Schmidt himself or if they somehow found their way to the Gardens by other means. The sighting, however, is truly remarkable.

The park is open to the public from sunrise to sunset and entry is free of charge. Since the area is guarded by security, the National Gardens are considered a very safe place for locals and tourists alike.

5. Zappeion

Right next to the National Gardens, visitors can see one of the oldest conferences and exhibition centers of Greece. Zappeion (Megaro) is a palatial building following the neoclassical architectural movement. It was used as the main fencing hall during the 1896 Summer Olympics and as an Olympic Village in 1906.

Apart from the palatial buildings, visitors can admire the beautiful Zappeion Gardens that surround the area. The park includes a playground for children and 2400 square meters of atriums and patios. Contrary to the National Gardens, the Gardens of Zappeion are less dense and people can freely enter and exit at any time of the day. For this exact reason, it is advised to avoid visiting the area late at night.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus  

Another important landmark of the city of Athens is the Temple of Olympian Zeus , or simply, Olympieion. Situated right next to the southwestern part of Zappeion, its remains stand as a reminder of the city’s rich past. The temple was laid by the Athenian tyrants in the 6th century BCE on the site of an older outdoor sanctuary of Zeus . More than 600 years later, the Roman emperor Hadrian extended the structure by adding 104 colossal columns. Today, visitors can see 16 of them, since the original structure was hit by barbarian invasions and natural disasters.

7. Panathenaic Stadium 

Less than ten minutes on foot from Zappeion and the Olympieion, there is another important Athenian landmark. The Panathenaic Stadium, or Kallimarmaro, is an open-air U-shaped stadium that has been hosting several athletic competitions and cultural events for centuries. Made entirely out of marble, it is distinguished for its impressive design. Initially, it was made out of limestone and was later reconstructed by Herodes Atticus in 144 CE, who envisioned it as a marble structure. In modern times, the stadium held the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1896 Olympic Games, as well as several more athletic competitions.

8. The Ancient Agora of Athens

Moving away from the Panathenaic Stadium towards the northwestern part of central Athens, visitors can enter the ancient market (agora) of the city. The Agora was in fact more than a business area. Athenians would discuss politics, and many great ideas were born in this exact location. The Agora was also the meeting point of sculptors and marble workers, such as Phidias , Alcamenes, and Praxiteles.

Today, visitors can enter the Agora and its Museum from 8 AM to 6 PM from Adrianou Street, just a few minutes away from Monastiraki Square. The temple of Hephaestus and other important landmarks are enclosed within the archaeological site of the Agora. Ticket prices vary from 5€ to 10€, while there are many free admission days during the year.

9. Kerameikos Cemetery 

Within a short walking distance from the Ancient Agora, there is the archaeological site of Kerameikos and the homonymous Museum. Dating back to the early bronze age, it showcases part of the ancient necropolis of Athens, bringing forgotten rituals to light. At first glance, the site resembles a regular park. Upon paying close attention, visitors will notice monumental graves, statues, and wall ruins.

Moreover, the Museum of Kerameikos sheds more light on the religious beliefs of ancient Athenians. For example, recent archaeological findings from the area stand as proof that the local population would use the dead in occult practices even during the Classical Era. Curse tablets would be buried in freshly dug tombs with the hope that the deceased would carry them to Hades , where the goddess of witchcraft, Hecate , resided.

The entrance to Kerameikos is in close proximity to Thision metro station, right at the pedestrian part of Ermou Street. Ticket prices vary from 4€ to 8€, while there are many free admission days during the year, including the 28th of October.

10. The Pnyx

Although Athens has many historical hills, most travelers are unable to visit all of them during their trip. Apart from the Acropolis, another important Athenian Hill is the Pnyx . Since 507 BC, ancient Athenians would gather on this rocky hill to attend the ekklesia (assembly) and discuss politics. Important figures such as Pericles and Demosthenes have delivered historical orations on that site, which visitors can freely access by following different alleyways in the historical center.

Visiting the site does not only offer a breathtaking view of Athens and the Acropolis, but it also allows travelers to see the first bema (speaker’s platform) to have ever existed at the birthplace of Democracy . The hill is open to the public at all hours of the day and night and there are no admission fees. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by following the alleyway that starts from the Doridis Observatory all the way up to the Nymphs Hill. The exact spot of the bema can be reached within 15 minutes from the train station of Thisio.

13 Facts You Did Not Know About the Acropolis of Athens

By Marialena Perpiraki MSc. Media & Convergence, BA Communication, Media & Culture Marialena is a journalist and content writer with an interest in comparative mythology and folklore. She holds a BA in Communications, Media & Culture from Panteion University of Athens and an MSc. in Media & Convergence Management from AAU, Austria. She is the creator of the cross-media platform Helinika.

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Home » Europe » Athens

11 BEST Places to Visit in Athens (2024)

Athens is not only the capital of modern-day Greece, but also the birth of western civilization. When visiting the city, you’ll see constant reminders of this with remnants of buildings that date to way before the time of Jesus Christ!

It can be hard to know where to start when exploring Athens, as there are so many cultural and historical attractions. That’s where we come in. We’ve put together this list of the best places to visit in Athens – a mixture of cool cultural landmarks and quirky attractions that will help you get the best out of your holiday!

Our list has more than enough places to visit in Athens in 3 days, you could probably stay in the city for a week without getting bored!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Athens:

These are the best places to visit in athens, faq on the best places to visit in athens, final thoughts.

Many describe Gazi as the new cafe and restaurant district and others simply utilize it as an affordable base from which to explore Athens. Whichever camp you’re in, there’s a whole load going on…

• Visit the Technopolis (former gas works) where you can catch outdoor shows, concerts, exhibitions and pop-up galleries
• Explore streets Iakou, Persephonis, Dekeleon and Voutado for cool cafes that turn into bars after sundown
• Eat at The Butcher Shop – here you can tuck into grilled meats and traditional souvlaki

Before you hit the ground running on this adventure hot on the tail of the supersonic Hermes, keep in mind that Athens is a diverse city with loads of great accommodation spread all over the map. We’ve condensed this down for you so be sure to check out where to stay in Athens before you embark!

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#1 – Acropolis of Athens – One of Athens’ coolest historical sites

• Top of everyone’s Athens itinerary!
• Home to some of the world’s most archaeological and historically significant buildings
• See where democracy was established

Why it’s awesome: The Acropolis of Athens is a citadel perched upon a rocky hill at the top of the Greek capital. It is without a doubt the most important landmark in Athens, possibly even the whole of Greece! According to UNESCO, who listed it as a World Heritage site, it’s the most beautiful architectural complex from Greek antiquity. There’s more than enough in the Acropolis to spend a few days wandering around and exploring. Just beware it can get extremely hot and it’s uncovered, so take adequate sun protection and wear comfortable clothes!

What to do there: There’s a long list of things to do at this Athens must-see attraction. First on your list should be the 5 th century BC Parthenon Temple. It’s a beautifully preserved temple and a key point of interest in Athens and the Acropolis. The Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike are other important temples in the Acropolis, while the Theatre of Dionysius at the foot of the hill is worth a visit too. Before or after you explore the citadel, take a walk around the Acropolis museum to learn more about this incredible archaeological site. If you really can’t get enough of this place, stay in an Airbnb nearby with a view of the acropolis!

#2 – Mount Lycabettus

• Enjoy woods and nature in the centre of Athens
• Take the funicular up to the top for fab views of the city
• Boasts one of the coolest places to eat in Athens

Why it’s awesome: Another hill in the Greek capital and another cool place to visit. Rather than being famed for its manmade wonders, the highest point in Athens is covered in Pine forests which are a cool and refreshing walk option on a hot summer’s day! If a walk sounds like too much hard work, there’s a funicular train on the hill too. That’ll take the strain off your legs while still allowing you to enjoy the stunning views all the way down to the ocean! Don’t miss this awesome Athens hotspot. See if you can spot your hostel from the top, as there are many great hostels to stay in , in Athens located around the area.

What to do there: There’s a whole host of things to do at one of the coolest landmarks in Athens. As we’ve already mentioned, a walk or taking the funicular is a great way to enjoy the views on the way up and at the top of the hill. Not only that, atop the hill is one of the best places to eat in the capital. Stunning views at twilight with delicious local and traditional food is an unforgettable way to spend an evening. Especially if you’re looking for something romantic to do as a couple, you’ll want to add this to your Athens itinerary !

#3 – Panathenaic Stadium

• Visit the world’s only stadium entirely carved of marble
• The site of the first modern Olympic games in 1896
• Still hosts live events such as concerts!

Why it’s awesome: You can’t travel to Athens without knowing it’s the birthplace of the modern Olympic games. And what’s better than seeing the original stadium, and the only one in the world made completely of white marble?! The stadium’s history goes way further back than that though. There were sporting events dating back to before Christ taking place on the land now occupied by the stadium! As well as being a proud sporting achievement, it was the first place to play the modern Olympic Hymn. The Panethenaic Stadium also had a place in the Athens Olympic Games in 2004!

What to do there: Walk around the stadium and take in the impressive architecture of the world’s only marble stadium. If you’re travelling to Greece in November, see athletes make it over the finish line of the city’s marathon! Nowadays, the Panthenaic Stadium isn’t just used for sporting events, but it’s a concert venue. So, if you’re running low on Athens vacation ideas, check out who’s playing. Maybe you’ll get to see one of your favourite artists in an unforgettable and amazing location!

#4 – National Garden, Athens – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Athens

• Take a walk through the National Garden
• See native and exotic plants
• Explore ancient ruins of columns and mosaics

Why it’s awesome: Just over the road from the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Garden is another of the most famous places in Athens. Not only can you enjoy native and exotic plants, but there are tortoise and terrapin ponds in the garden too! If you’re planning on walking from Mets to Kolonaki, then this is one of the prettiest routes you can take. Exploring the gardens is a perfect way to spend half a day when visiting Athens, and it’s popular with tourists and locals alike!

What to do there: The beauty of the national garden is that you can make it suit your style. So, if you want to spend a few hours reading a book in the shade, no problem. Want to learn about the 7,000+ species of plants and trees in the park? You can do that too. There’s even a children’s library to keep the kids entertained! Oh, and if you have a jogging or running routine that you want to keep up on your holidays, there’s nowhere better to exercise than this gorgeous place!

#5 – The Old Madrasa of Athens – One of the more unique places to visit in Athens!

• See the remains of some of Athens’ darker times
• Located in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Athens – Plaka
• Great for a short break between other activities

Why it’s awesome: So, one of the more unusual things to do in Athens is visiting the Old Madrasa. It’s not something that will take a day or even half a day, but don’t let that put you off. The Madrasa is more modern than most of the ruins in Athens, dating back just 300 years. It’s practically brand new by the standards here! A remain of Ottoman rule, this became one of the most feared and terrifying prisons in the Greek capital. Few who entered left, with many either being sold to slavery, tortured, or hanged from the ‘hangman’s tree.’

What to do there: Nowadays, the Madrasa is an interesting place to take a walk and see what’s left. The key part is the doorway that led many a prisoner, student, or condemned person to their fate. You can also see the remains of the walls that held the prisoners in! The Plane Tree where so many were executed from can’t be seen though – that was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1919. It’s good to combine visiting the Madrasa with some of Athens’ other cool landmarks, like the Roman Agora.

#6 – Syntagma Square

• See the Old Royal Palace of Athens
• Explore Athens’ central and biggest square
• Great place for people watching with a coffee!

Why it’s awesome: Syntagma Square is the centre of Athens and a very important place! Translated into English, Syntagma means Consitution, and it’s where the first King of Greece, Otto, granted that in the 19 th century. Nowadays, it’s the base of the Greek parliament and where you’ll find the country’s royal palace. That’s not all though, Syntagma Square is a top Athens hotspot, with plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and accommodation here! In fact, most of the city’s 5 star hotels are based around the outside of the square. It’s a great place to eat, although do be wary of tourist pricing!

What to do there: Around the outside of Syntagma Square, there’s plenty to keep you entertained for half a day. Such a large number of cafes with outside seating are the perfect place to enjoy a drink, a book, or just watch the world go by! It may sound weird, but the square’s metro station is worth a visit too. Why on earth is that?! Well, when digging the foundations of the station, workers discovered one of the largest archaeological discoveries in Athens! So, when walking through the station, some of that is on display!

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#7 – Temple of Hepaesthus and the Agora of Athens – One of the most underrated places to see in Athens!

• Visit one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world
• One of the earliest and best examples of a marketplace
• Another of the most famous landmarks in Athens

Why it’s awesome: Since these two are so close, we’ve put them in together. Temple of Hepaesthus is the perfect place to visit before or after a visit to the Ancient Agora. Among all the beautiful places in Greece , this one often gets overlooked. It’s a mystery as to why though, considering this is one of the most complete in the city! Head on to the Agora, where minimal restoration has taken place so that you can imagine how the ancient marketplace was in the glory days of Ancient Greece!

What to do there: As well as visiting the Temple of Hepaesthus, there are a few things to keep you entertained for at least half a day here. Another impressive building that has been beautifully preserved is the Stoa of Attalos. This building comes from the Hellenistic Period. At the Agora, you can learn about how it was important through the eras of not only Ancient Greece but Roman and Byzantine too!

#8 – Kerameikos Cemetery – A nice quiet place to visit in Athens

• Visit a cemetery that remained undiscovered for over 2,000 years
• A beautiful spot that tourists often don’t get round to visiting
• One of the more unusual things to do in Athens

Why it’s awesome: The stunningly beautiful Kerameikos Cemetery is a victim of a city that has so many archaeological sites! Often overlooked for more glamorous sites like the Ancient Agora or the Acropolis, you may be lucky enough to get this cool place almost to yourself. Especially if you’re not visiting in the high season! The cemetery is dedicated to Keramos, the son of Dionysius. He was the hero of potters, and that’s where the Latinised word ceramic comes from!

What to do there: You might think that fewer tourists come here because it hasn’t been worked on. Well, you’d be wrong! As well as the beautifully preserved cemetery, there’s a museum too. And yep, you guessed it, it’s dedicated to pottery. Once you’ve finished at Kermeikos, head to one of the cool local spots nearby. Some of the best places to eat in Athens can be found nearby in the Psiri and Gazi districts. There’s a hammam nearby too, where you can enjoy a relaxing Turkish bath!

#9 – Technopolis – A fascinating educational place to visit in Athens

• Visit one of Europe’s best live industrial museums
• See an autonomous and self-reliant community
• A cool point of interest in Athens

Why it’s awesome: There are plenty of museums in Athens, but for the average person, there is only so much you can learn about ruins and archaeology before you start to get a little bored. If you’re looking to enjoy a spot of culture and something educational, this is the perfect alternative. Technopolis is located in the old gas factory in Athens but has been transformed into one of the city’s most artistic and intriguing cultural centres. Visit here to see a different side of the Greek capital’s history and culture!

What to do there: This charming place is often seen as a factory of art. However, it’s not just art that you can enjoy here! As a live autonomous community, you can see carpenters, mechanics, and barbershops working here. It’s a closed community and a tourist attraction at the same time! Check out Technopolis’ events programme to see what cool things are happening when you travel to Athens. Poetry readings, art exhibitions, and concerts are just the start!

#10 – Agia Dynami – Quite the quirky place in Athens

• Visit this tiny Byzantine Church which is surrounded by an entire building!
• Learn this little building’s fascinating history
• One of the more unusual attractions in Athens!

Why it’s awesome: This charming little church has plenty of character and is worth making a detour to when you’re in the centre! It’s a Greek Orthodox Church dating back to the 16 th century, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The quaint little church is actually a shrine for pregnant women, who can go to pray for a safe delivery. The most interesting thing about it though, is that it’s surrounded on all 4 sides by another building! It’s also on the original sites of a temple dedicated to Heracles!

What to do there: If you’re a pregnant woman, then this church is set up for you! However, if you don’t want to pray for your own safe delivery it’s still a really cool place to pop in and take a look. It’s almost entirely surrounded by the five star Electra Metropolis hotel, so if you’re staying there you literally can’t miss it! If you do plan to visit Agia Dynami, make sure you dress appropriately. Usually covering below the knee is enough, but to be on the safe side it’s probably best to wear jeans or long trousers.

#11 – Polignotou – A great place to visit in Athens at night!

• Be led by the glowing light of the Acropolis above
• Feel as though you’re in Ancient Athens
• Enjoy a magical movie at the open-air cinema

Why it’s awesome: Polignotou is the street which leads to the Acropolis, and a leisurely stroll from Thissio to Plaka at night is an ideal spot for a romantic walk, or just to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s almost always quiet, and you’ll just be guided by the moonlight and the lights of the ancient Acropolis! When you reach your destination of Plaka, you can find some of the best places to eat in Athens.

What to do there: Of course, sometimes a walk just isn’t enough to keep you entertained. Something that will make for an unforgettable evening though is watching a movie at Thissio open-air cinema. Not only are you under the stars, but you’re also in the shadow of the Acropolis and the iconic Parthenon. There are a number of other open-air cinemas in Athens too, so if sitting under the stars in relative warmth appeals to you, you’re certainly in the right city!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Athens

What is Athens famous for?

Athens is famous for its historical routes and their contributions to world politics. It also has important historical monuments, such as the Acropolis.

What is the best place to visit in Athens beside the Acropolis?

The Panathenaic Stadium is definitely my second favourite place to visit in Athens after the Acropolis. It’s extremely rare to see a full Roman stadium in all its glory, so definitely check this one out.

Is Athens a safe place to visit?

Athens is considered a safe city for tourists, but you do hear about the occasional muggings in crowded places or on the metro.

Is Athens expensive?

Athens is not expensive as long as you learn to budget and make wise money-saving decisions. Read our guide to ‘ Is Greece Expensive? ‘ for some tips.

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Athens. We hope this has been a useful and informative list which has also given you an idea of the best neighbourhoods and places to stay in Athens too!

Whatever you want from your break in the Greek capital – you’re bound to find it here. Fascinating architectural treasures, great food and nightlife, and some cool and unusual attractions, it’s all hidden there somewhere under the shadow of the Acropolis.

Hopefully, our list doesn’t just show you the best places to visit in Athens but also offers you the opportunity to stay in the city and see it like a local. If you’re passionate about travel, there’s no way that you’ll not have a fantastic time in Athens.

Worried about spending too much money on the Island? We’ve put together some tips and tricks in your Greece Travel costs guide . Be sure to check it out!

Athens? Completed it mate! If you’re looking for more stuff to do, check out the amazing day trips from Athens you can do too.

Alright, we’ve said enough – Enjoy your trip!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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The 12 Best Places To Visit In Athens, Greece

Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Natalia

As one of the oldest cities in the world, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in Athens, Greece. It’s a travel destination not to be missed for history lovers, with a vast array of majestic ruins to visit, including the world-famous Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. On top of that the city is home to quaint neighbourhoods, stunning viewpoints and museums, as well as being perfectly located for some fabulous day trips around Greece. We spent two weeks exploring Athens, whilst also taking the opportunity to  gorge on the delicious local cuisine. Read on to discover our verdict on the best places to visit in Athens, Greece.

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in Athens

The Acropolis is a must visit place and undoubtedly the most famous site in all of Athens. Perched on top of a hill in the city centre, this ancient citadel is home to some of the oldest ruins in the city. The ruins of the Acropolis date back to the 5th century BC, and are a must see when visiting Athens.

Of all the structures found at the Acropolis, the Parthenon is the most well-known. The Parthenon is a former temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, whom the city of Athens was named after.

Construction of the temple began in 447 BC and continued until 432 BC. As with many of the structures at the Acropolis, the Parthenon has suffered substantial damage over the years.

Although the Parthenon is the most famous site at the Acropolis, there are a number of other ruins to visit, including the Theatre of Dionysus, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Another spot to visit is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a theatre dating back to the 2nd Century. The theatre is still used today, although it is cordoned off so that you can only access it if you have tickets to a performance. Fortunately you can still get a good vantage point of it from the southwest slope of the Acropolis.

Tickets to the Acropolis of Athens cost €20 per person during the summer season (1st April-31st October), but are available at a reduced rate of €10 per person during the winter season (1st November-31st March.)

Reduced rate tickets are available for €10 during summer and €5 during winter if you are a university student or are over 65 years old and from an EU member state. Better yet, free tickets are available for under 18s, although free tickets cannot be booked in advance.

During the summer queues can get up to two hours long, especially at the weekends, so it’s best to buy your ticket online in advance if you can. Click here to head to the Acropolis ticketing website, which also has further information on eligibility for the reduced rate and free tickets.

If you plan to visit other ruins in Athens then you can buy a combined ticket costing €30. The combined ticket allows one admission per site to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Olympieion, Kerameikos and Aristotle’s School.

These tickets are valid for 5 days, allowing you to spend your time exploring the different ruins. Reduced combined tickets are available for just €15 for students and seniors. Unfortunately there is no reduction in the price of a combined ticket during winter.

On certain days of the year there is free admission to the Acropolis and other ruins in Athens. The dates do vary from year to year, so it’s important to check them before your trip.

If you want to book your tickets in advance then another option is to book them via Get Your Guide, which we recommend doing as it’s such an iconic place to visit in Athens. One of the best options is to book a ticket which allows you to skip the queue as well as have a digital audio tour on your phone to give you more information about the ruins. These tickets do cost more than standard entry, but are available from just €29.50 per person.

Click here to book skip-the-line Acropolis tickets with an audio guide!

Alternatively, you can book a guided tour of the Acropolis for around €14 more. Guided tours last 90 minutes and are a brilliant way to find out more about the incredible history of the ruins.

They can be booked in advance through Get Your Guide for just €43, which includes skip-the-line entry to the Acropolis as well as an hour and a half guided tour. At the conclusion of the tour you will have the chance to explore the ruins without the guide too if you’d like to stay for longer!

Click here to book a 90 minute guided tour of the Acropolis!

There are two entrances to the Acropolis – the main entrance and the side entrance. Both entrances require some uphill walking to reach the ruins, but we recommend using the side entrance as it is less busy and also isn’t as far away from the main ruins. We recommend reading this article on the different entrances to the Acropolis before you visit.

Restoration works have been underway at the Acropolis since 1975, but as of 2017 they have slowed down significantly. Although the works have slowed, construction may still partially obstruct sections of the Parthenon and other ruins. During our visit in early 2019 one side of the Parthenon was blocked by construction, but the majority of it could still be enjoyed without obstruction. Despite the works the Acropolis is still one of the top tourist destinations and things to see in Athens!

Ancient Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens was once the heart of the city, acting as a marketplace and meeting point for Athenians. In similar fashion to the Roman Forum in Rome , the Agora is a large archaeological site home to a range of ruins, with two of the most notable being the Hephaisteion and the Stoa of Attalos.

Also known as the Temple of Hephaestus, the Hephaisteion is a beautiful temple that dates back to the 5th century BC. The Stoa of Attalos is a covered walkway that was once home to a number of shops, making it the ancient equivalent of a shopping mall.

With so many different ruins and artefacts to see, you can easily spend a few hours exploring the Agora. Although it isn’t as iconic as the Acropolis, it’s still a fascinating place to visit thanks to its rich history.

Entrance tickets to the Ancient Agora of Athens cost €8 between 1st April to 31st October, but are available at a reduced rate of €4 outside of these dates. Students and seniors are able to get reduced rate tickets for €4 all year round.

Panathenaic stadium

One of the top places to visit in Athens is the immense Panathenaic stadium – the main venue for the first modern day Olympic Games in 1896. The original stadium on the site opened in 330 BC before being abandoned during the 4th century.

Following excavations in the 19th century the stadium was rebuilt in time for the 1896 Olympic Games. It held both the opening and closing ceremonies of the games, as well as being the venue for 4 of the 9 contested events. As of 2019, the Panathenaic stadium is still the only stadium in the world to be built entirely from marble.

Built in a horseshoe shape, the stadium has an external length of 268 metres and width of 34 metres. In the past the Panathenaic stadium had a maximum capacity of 80,000 spectators, but its current capacity is 45,000-50,000.

In our opinion it’s a simply unmissable spot to visit on any trip to Athens, thanks to the stadium’s significance in the history of the Olympic Games.

The Panathenaic Stadium was again used as a venue during the 2004 Olympic Games, hosting the archery as well as being the finish point for the marathon. Before every Olympics, the stadium hosts the handover ceremony for the Olympic flame to be passed from the previous host nation to the next one.

On top of this, it is still sometimes used for other sporting events, and during our visit in early 2019 there was a school sports day taking place in the stadium. Concerts also take place at the stadium, with R.E.M. and Depeche Mode having played there previously.

Tickets to visit the Panathenaic stadium cost €5, although students and seniors are able to gain entrance for a reduced rate of €2.50. Unlike some of the other attractions in Athens, entrance to the stadium costs the same rate throughout the year, and so it isn’t possible to visit for less during the winter months.

Entrance to the stadium includes a free audio guide as well as access to a museum with previous Olympic games posters, torches and more.

Philopappos Hill

Philopappos Hill is one of the best places to visit for sunset in Athens. Thanks to the hill’s central location, it’s the perfect spot to watch day turn to night as it provides wonderful views of both the Acropolis and the whole city.

The walk up isn’t too strenuous, and only takes around 15-minutes from bottom to top. At the top of the hill you will find the Philopappos monument – an ancient Greek mausoleum dedicated to Philopappus, a prince from the Kingdom of Commagene.

Although sunset is the best time to visit, it’s still a lovely place to see at any time of day thanks to the incredible views. If possible, it’s well worth planning your day so that you can be here for sunset. With a bit of luck you’ll be treated to a vibrant sky alongside the most stunning views of Athens and the Acropolis.

After nightfall the Acropolis illuminated, so make sure to wait until you see it lit up before descending the hill as it’s one of the things not to miss in Athens!

Lycabettus hill

At 277 metres above sea level, Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens. Sometimes referred to as Mount Lycabettus, it’s a brilliant place to visit for sunset as you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the whole city.

Visiting the hill for sunset is definitely one of the best things to do in Athens at night. That being said, the stunning views mean it’s a brilliant spot to visit at any time of day.

There are two options to get to the top of Lycabettus Hill – take the funicular or walk. We personally opted to hike to the top during our visit, but as we visited early in the year it wasn’t too hot.

During the summer months walking can be particularly tough due to the heat, so make sure to stay well hydrated if you plan to walk up on a hot day! If it’s a really hot day then we suggest taking the funicular railway to the top.

A funicular is a kind of train used for going up and down steep inclines, making it an ideal way to get to the top of the hill. The Lycabettus Hill funicular costs €5 for a one-way journey or €7 for a return trip. It runs at least once every 30 minutes between 9am and 2.30am, and during peak times it sometimes runs as often as every 10 minutes.

Unfortunately the funicular runs inside a closed tunnel so you don’t get any views on the way up, but it isn’t long before you get to enjoy the views from the top!

If you’d prefer to walk to the top it isn’t too tough a walk. In total it took us around 30 minutes to reach the top from the nearby Evangelismos metro station. Although it can be fairly steep at times, if you have a moderate level of fitness the walk to the top should take no longer than an hour at most.

When at the top you can see why this made our list of one of the best places to visit in Athens as well as Greece!

Whichever way you choose to get to the top, there are a number of incredible viewpoints to enjoy. If you’re visiting at sunset we recommend being at the top at least half an hour before so that you can walk around and appreciate the different vantage points.

As sunset approaches the very top viewing platform of Lycabettus Hill can get extremely crowded, so it can be worth walking back down the hill slightly to find a quieter spot away from the crowds.

Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, Plaka is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Athens. It’s the oldest neighbourhood in the city and is made up of narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional tavernas and souvenir stores.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Neighbourhood of the Gods’, Plaka is a lovely area to wander around to soak up the atmosphere, both during the day and night.

One of the best places to visit is the tiny Anafiotika neighbourhood, located at the top of the hill in Plaka, despite being in the centre of Athens, the neighbourhood feels more like it belongs on one of the Greek islands.

It’s a very scenic and charming spot to visit, and is definitely one of the city’s hidden gems. Although Plaka itself can be over-commercialised at times, Anafiotika is a quiet and peaceful escape that’s well worth visiting.

Syntagma Square is the central square of modern day Athens. The square is easy to reach by public transport, with 2 of the city’s 3 metro lines stopping at Syntagma station. Due to the square’s central location, it’s common for it to get busy with a mix of both tourists and locals.

Directly adjacent to the square is the Greek Parliament Building, known as the Hellenic Parliament. One of the main things to do in Syntagma Square is to watch the changing of the guards at the parliament building.

The main changing of the guard ceremony in Athens, known as the Grand Change, takes place on Sundays at the parliament building. Many websites report that this takes place at 11am, but on our visit we arrived at around 10.30am to find it was already underway. We recommend arriving prior to 10.30am to ensure you’re there before the ceremony starts.

Thanks to the central location of Syntagma Square, many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance. On top of that, there are a number of restaurants, bars and hotels nearby, making it a great area of the city to stay.

Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Athens and is best-known for being one of the city’s main shopping districts. The best place to start your visit to the neighbourhood is Monastiraki square, which is home to the Tzistarakis Mosque and the Church of the Pantanassa. Like many squares in the city centre, it is a hub of activity and so can be quite busy.

In terms of shopping, the area is home to a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops and specialty stores. One of the best times to visit Monastiraki is during the Sunday flea market. As with most flea markets there is a mix of antiques and unique souvenirs as well as some junk you probably won’t be interested in at all!

If shopping isn’t really your thing then you may prefer to visit one of the rooftop bars near to Monastiraki Square. You can choose between A for Athens or 360 Cocktail Bar, both of which have wonderful views overlooking the Acropolis and the square. They’re great spots to enjoy a drink with some of the most memorable views in Athens.

The neighbourhood is easily accessible by Metro as the Monastiraki Metro station serves both lines 1 and 3. Close-by to the metro station you will find the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, which you are able to visit using the combined Acropolis ticket if you wish.

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is one of the top tourist attractions and places to visit in Athens. It showcases a collection of artefacts found at the Acropolis and its surrounding slopes, dating from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece.

The museum is built on top of an archaeological site, and so the floor is often transparent to allow visitors to see the ruins below, for those looking for a cultural thing to do in Athens this is one of the spots to visit!

Between 1st April and 31st October tickets to the Acropolis Museum cost €10 at full price or €5 at the reduced rate, and between 1st November and 31st March tickets are €5 or €3 at the reduced rate.

Tickets for the Acropolis Museum can be brought via Get Your Guide. 

One option is to purchase a skip-the-line ticket , and another is to book a guided tour of the museum to learn even more about the fascinating history!

Roman Agora

Just north of the Acropolis you will find the Roman Agora, which was the city’s market area whilst under Roman rule. Believed to be built during the 2nd or 1st Century BC, the Roman Agora is substantially smaller than the Ancient Agora, which means you don’t need to plan as long for your visit.

Much of the Roman Agora can be seen through fences without paying the entrance fee, but if you have the combined Acropolis ticket then entry is included and so it’s worth going in for a closer look. Points of interest in the Roman Agora include the Tower of the Winds, the Fethiye Mosque and the Gate of Athena Archegetis, which served as the entrance to the market.

If you want to visit but do not have a combined ticket then the entrance fee to the Roman Agora is €6 between 1st April and 31st October, and €3 outside of these months.

Athens Olympic Sports Complex

If you’re looking for places to go outside central Athens then we recommend visiting the Athens Olympic Sports Complex, also referred to as OAKA. The complex was used for the 2004 Olympic Games, and is home to the Main Olympic Stadium in Athens – not to be confused with the Panathenaic stadium.

Today the complex is largely unused and abandoned, although some locals do still use the area for jogging, rollerblading and more.

One of the main reasons to visit is the beautifully designed arches, which are perfect for wandering underneath and getting some brilliant photos too. It’s a nice spot to relax and it also gives you the chance to see the Main Olympic Stadium from the 2004 games.

The stadium is home to AEK Athens Football Club , and has previously hosted the Champions League Final in 2007, as well as concerts from the likes of U2, Michael Jackson and Bon Jovi.

The Olympic Sports Complex is easy to reach as you can take line 1 to the Irini metro station, which is located directly adjacent to the complex. In our opinion visiting the complex is one of the more interesting non touristy things to do in Athens.

Free Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a different way to discover the city then we recommend taking a free walking tour. These tours are a great chance to learn about the history of both Athens and Greece whilst you get a feel for the city.

Tours run every day at 9.30am, and can be booked by visiting the Athens free walking tour website. The length of tours can vary slightly depending on how many questions your group has, but normally they last around 2 to 2 and half hours.

Unfortunately we didn’t get chance to do the free walking tour in Athens, but we did do a similar one in Bucharest and we found it absolutely fascinating. The reviews of the Athens walking tour on TripAdvisor are great, so we’re sure this tour is one of the top things to do in Athens.

Although the tours are free, if you enjoy the tour and have enough money to give a tip then we recommend doing so. The guides are so passionate and knowledgeable about the city, so contributing even a small amount goes a long way to showing your appreciation for their hard work.

Day Trips from Athens

While there are some absolutely incredible places to visit and things to do in Athens itself, there are also a number of great day trips to take from the city. Greece has some wonderful islands and historical sites to visit, so if you have enough time during your trip we fully recommend seeing more than just Athens!

There are a number of islands that can be easily visited on day trips from Athens, including Hydra, Poros and Aegina. It’s possible to book ferries online in advance , or alternatively you can arrange them at the port in Piraeus.

Arranging it this way normally works out cheaper, but if you would like to visit multiple islands in one day then you can book a day tour with Get Your Guide. These tours visit Hydra, Poros and Aegina, allowing you to see a number of the beautiful islands in just one day!

Click here to check out the wonderful day tour to the islands on Get Your Guide! If a day trip is too rushed for you then you can arrange transport yourself and also choose to stay on one of the islands for a few days too.

Other brilliant day trip spots from Athens include Meteora, Delphi and the Temple of Poseidon. Meteora is a stunning rock formation home to a number of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries, which help to make it a truly magical place.

Delphi is home to some stunning ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi amphitheatre. Finally, the Temple of Poseidon is a famous temple built between 444 BC and 440 BC, and is a truly beautiful place to visit at sunset.

Day trips to all these wonderful places and more can be arranged in advance through Get Your Guide. We recommend booking early for your trip so that the dates you want to visit don’t sell out!

Click here to see the amazing day trips available from Athens on Get Your Guide!

How to get to Athens city centre from the airport

There are good public transport links between Athens airport and the city centre, so you can either use the metro or take a bus. The cheaper option is to take the bus, which costs €6 one-way and takes around an hour to reach the city centre.

Buses from the airport will drop you off in Syntagma Square, which is ideal if you have a hotel around this area. If you’d prefer to take the metro then a one-way ticket to the city centre costs €10.

Alternatively, if you’re only staying for a few days you can buy a 3-day tourist ticket for €22. This ticket is valid for 72 hours from when you first validate it and allows unlimited metro use within the city centre, as well as a return journey from the airport.

If you plan to use the metro to get around during your stay then the 3-day Athens tourist ticket is very good value. The advantage of taking the metro to the city centre is that you can get off at the stop closest to your accommodation.

Athens has three metro lines, and the one running to the airport is metro line 3. If the stop you need is on another line then you can change at Monastiraki station for line 1 or Syntagma station for line 2. To find out more about the metro lines click here.

The final option is to take a taxi from Athens airport to the city centre. Unsurprisingly this is the most expensive option, but if you’re in a group then it can still work out as relatively good value if you split the cost.

Taxis from the airport to the city centre have a fixed rate fee and cost €38 from 5am to 12am or €54 from 12am to 5am. Taking a taxi from the airport is the quickest way to reach Athens city centre, so if you would prefer to get there quickly then it’s a good option.

Getting around Athens

If you’re staying in the city centre then you should be able to easily walk to places to visit in Athens like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora and Philopappos Hill.

During summer the city can get very hot, so you should make sure to drink plenty of water if you’re going to be walking around the city. It’s also worth considering other means of transport if you feel the weather is too hot to walk in.

Fortunately, Athens has a cheap and easy to use metro system , with 3 different lines running across the city. A 90-minute ticket for the metro costs €1.40, whereas a 24-hour ticket costs €4.50.

Both options are great value if you want to get around the city quickly. The metro system is extremely convenient if you’re staying outside of the city, as it means you can quickly reach the centre of Athens for less than €2.

Best time to visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens in terms of weather is during spring or autumn as it can get uncomfortably warm during the summer months. Temperatures in the city can exceed 35 degrees Celsius during summer, with average highs of 32 degrees Celsius in both July and August.

Visiting during spring or autumn also means the city should be less busy than during summer, so not only will it be a more bearable temperature, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the attractions without as many tourists!

If possible, try to avoid weekends if you’re only visiting for a few days, even during winter. The city will inevitably be more busy during weekends, especially if you visit during a holiday such as Easter.

When we visited Athens in winter 2019 we were pleasantly surprised with the weather. Although the nights were reasonably cold, some of the days were so warm it was comfortable enough to walk around in shorts and a t-shirt.

Of course the weather can vary, especially in winter, so visiting at this time is a bit of a gamble as it’s possible to get periods of rainy weather. Just a month before we visited Athens even saw some snowfall , which, although rare, is still possible in the city.

If the warm weather and crowds don’t bother you then summer is still a nice time to visit the city, but it’s important to make sure you have air conditioning in your accommodation if you visit at this time.

Where to stay in Athens

Zappion Hotel

The centrally located Zappion Hotel is one of the best budget options in Athens, located within walking distance of top attractions such as the Acropolis, Philopappos Hill and the lovely neighbourhood of Plaka.

Click here to book a stay at the budget friendly Zappion Hotel on Booking.com!

Athos Hotel

If you’re looking for a more comfortable stay then the Athos Hotel is a brilliant option, thanks to the beautiful rooftop terrace and well furnished rooms.

The hotel is brilliantly located just a 5-minute walk from Syntagma Square, which means you can easily explore Athens on foot. 

Click here to take a look at the wonderful Athos Hotel on Booking.com!

Treat yourself!

Electra Palace Hotel

The 5-star Electra Palace Hotel is one of the best hotels in Athens, largely thanks to its amazing rooftop pool with views of the Acropolis. Rooms at the property are comfortable and luxurious, and all the amenities and facilities you need are readily available throughout your stay.

To top if off, the hotel is centrally located so you never have to venture too far to discover the city’s attractions. 

Click here to book a stay at the incredible Electra Palace Hotel on Booking.com!

Looking for more information on where to stay? Click here to read our in depth guide to the best places to stay in Athens!

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

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Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to Athens, one of the world's most storied cities © Lisa Schaetzle / Getty Images

Founded in 508 BCE, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and it's regularly touted as one of the Mediterranean’s best capital cities to visit. From the iconic Parthenon and the unique street art rivaling that of Berlin  to the city's glittering coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this ancient capital. 

One thing’s for sure: whether you’re into architecture, mythology, ancient sites, modern art or simply relaxing by the beach, Athens has something for everyone.

When should I go to Athens?

Greece generally attracts most people during the summer months (June to August) and Athens is no different, but we recommend visiting in the spring and autumn to avoid the heat. These shoulder seasons – March to May and September to October – offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable travel experience overall. It’s also worth remembering that Athens is a humid place thanks to its coastline, which creates humid heat in the summer and gives the winter cold an extra chill. Consider this when packing and bring layers for all seasons.

Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls in April or May and the run-up to it, plus the event itself, is a huge celebration in the Greek calendar – even more so than Christmas. Expect street carnivals to mark the end of Lent and street processions to the various neighborhood churches on the Easter weekend, culminating in Mass and a huge meal on the Easter Sunday with a lamb on the spit. 

Restaurant prices won’t change much throughout the year, but accommodation prices do vary.  The same four-star hotel located near the Acropolis could be €140 per night in March and jump up to €320 in June for a weekend date, with Easter time seeing similar price rises.  It’s often cheaper to book directly, and hotels generally only publish their prices about two to three months in advance. 

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Many Europeans come to Athens for a weekend break, and long-haul travelers often use the city as as a stopover on the way to the Greek islands. 

You can get an initial taste of the city in two days, but we recommend a longer stay to truly understand the essence of this ancient capital. With four days, you can spend a day and a half at the capital’s famous sights, spend an afternoon wandering its neighborhoods , and still have time time to explore the beaches and ancient ruins of the Athenian coastline for a day or two.

Is it easy to get in and around Athens?

Located at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Greece (and Athens in particular) attracts many tourists, which means the travel infrastructure is well developed and easy to use. Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive – or a 45-minute metro ride – from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. 

Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus , which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km (6 miles) from the city center. Piraeus is well linked to both the center (20 minutes by metro) and airport (a 24-hour bus service that takes about 90 minutes).

Public transport around Athens itself is easy, accessible and affordable, with a single ticket valid for a 90-minute journey and costing a mere €1.20. There is also a range of ticket deals, including  tourist passes lasting three and five days. 

The four modes of transport in Athens are:

• the very clean metro system . Note: no food is allowed.
• the overground train that connects the center to Piraeus port and other mainland destinations.
• an extensive network of  buses and electric trolleys . These primarily run to urban neighborhoods beyond the touristic center. 
• a tram service that connects the city center to the Athens coast and its beaches in about an hour.

After you’ve gotten yourself from the airport to the city center, most of Athens’s popular sights sit within a compact, walkable area. Just be aware of the traffic – cars don’t always immediately stop at red lights, and motorbikes occasionally mount the sidewalk to park.

Top things to do in Athens

Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the  Parthenon , Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum , which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.

Ancient artifacts crop up all over the city in random places, too; the metro stations of Monastiraki, Akropoli and Syntagma are like mini museums in their own right, and there's even ruins of a Roman tomb in a glassed-off area of the Zara clothing store on the shopping street of Ermou.

If it’s shopping you’re into, pedestrianized Ermou St is the place to go. It runs for nearly a mile from the Acropolis area up to Parliament in Syntagma Square, and features tons of fashion brands such as Mac, Desigual and the aforementioned Zara, plus a huge H&M. Greece’s main department store, Attica, is also here, and it's a great place to stock up with your holiday essentials. 

Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens ? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden  next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , or make your way to  Filopappou Hill /Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.

My favorite thing to do in Athens

As an aficionado of street art, I love exploring the burgeoning street art scene here and getting to know the various neighborhoods where it proliferates. Take in the famous Praying Hands Mural just off Omonia Sq, for example, which depicts Jesus praying for the people down on Earth – a play on Albrecht Dürer’s Praying Hands (1508).

I also love wandering around the hidden village of Anafiotika , which sits beneath the northeast side of the Acropolis. A sub-district of Plaka, it was built in the mid-1800s when King Otto brought in workers from the Greek island of Anafi to construct his palace. Homesick, the workers set about making their neighborhood a replica of their homeland, building white, sugar-cubed houses with flat stone roofs and brightly painted wooden doors and shutters, like those found in the Cyclades. Pink and white bougainvilleas wind their way up these buildings, several of which have roof gardens. 

Anafiotika is a bit difficult to find, but worth the effort. Start at the Acropolis main entrance, and walk to your left along the path; keep the monument to your right until you reach the Church of Metamorphosis. Continue straight past the church and follow the wider path up a steep hill. The path turns right and runs into stairs – this is the start of the island village.

How much money do I need for Athens?

Athens isn’t an expensive place to visit compared to other European destinations, especially outside of the high summer season when prices rise significantly.

• Hostel dorm room: approx. €26 per night
• Basic room for two: €36–128, depending of style of hotel and location
• Self-catering apartment: €65 per day
• Public transport ticket: €1.20 for a 90-minute journey, €10 from the airport, €4.10 for a day pass, €20 for a three-day pass including one airport journey, €8.10 for a five-day pass (not including airport)
• Coffee: €2–2.50
• Typical Greek gyros with salad and fries: €2–3
• Dinner for two: €30 (add €2.50 for beer or wine)
• Beer at a pub: €2.50+

What do I need to know before going to Athens?

Bring layers, no matter the season 

As Athens is located on the coast, it’s sticky in the summer and quite chilly in the spring, fall and winter evenings. Layers are always a good idea: think T-shirts, light sweaters and a jacket for the cooler months. For the really hot summer months, bring a sports cooling towel to wrap around your neck to cool off as you explore.

Be aware of your belongings on the metro

As with any capital or big city, pickpockets can take advantage of large tourist crowds, especially on crowded public transport. Avoid hanging large cameras around your neck and keep your backpack in front of you. You may also want to invest in a hanging cord for your cell phone to loop across your body so it can’t be snatched from your hands.

No flushing toilet paper!

The plumbing in Athens is antiquated and the pipes tend to be very narrow. Flushing paper down the toilet will clog things up, so you’ll always find a bin with bag inside it in the bathroom for you to place toilet paper inside. This is removed daily by housekeeping.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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Greece in May with a 2 year old - Athens Forum

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Greece in May with a 2 year old

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We love: Meandering through old maze-like charming towns, tavernas by the water, interesting vistas and clambering through scenic architecture. (Not looking for lots of kid-centred/adventure activities/sailing - He's too young to enjoy.)

Trying to avoid: Crowds, drunk teens, packaged tours, etc. As it will be May, and too cold for proper swimming, we're looking for a more chilled/exploratory holiday than long periods at the beach.

Draft itinerary:

6 nights in Athens (with Day #3 Daytrip to Hydra), 4 nights on Milos (stay in Pollonia), 3 nights on Folegandros, (Travel back to Athens for flight to Rhodes) 3 nights in Rhodes, 1 night back to Athens for flight out.

- Do the nights allocated seem right?

- Is it worth travelling to both Milos and Folegandros or should we choose one or the other? (We definitely want to do an island in the Cyclades so is there a different one we should consider?)

- We are attracted to the Dodecanese Islands as it seems completely different to the Cyclades and we want to get a taste of a few different sides of Greece. Would you recommend Rhodes or another island to fly to ?

- Is there another very different, must-experience area I have missed?

Would really appreciate your recommendations!

4 replies to this topic

Do you really want to be moving around so much, packing and unpacking etc with a two year old?

Rhodes is definitely different and is well worth a visit but you may find some of those you are trying to avoid....

Milos over Folegandros or vice versa? Yes, but you should decide based on your research.

For the OP, I have this comment: If you want to experience different sides of Greece , maybe you should spend a bit less time in Athens and go somewhere else on the mainland. Nafplio is easy to reach by bus from Athens, and it is a "maze-like charming town" It offers "tavernas by the water, interesting vistas and clambering through scenic architecture" as well as easy day trips to some major archeological sites. I agree with Joyce that you probably don't want to move between two different islands in the Cyclades.

I wouldn't include Rhodes on this trip as your time can be used more effectively if you stay within one range of islands.

Presuming you stay within the Cyclades I would consider Naxos as it meets all the requirements you have listed and it won't be too busy in May. It also offers the opportunity to do day trips to other islands inc Santorini , Mykonos & Delos, Koufonissi.

The other island you could consider is Paros which will give you the option of visiting or even staying on Antiparos as well.

I agree with the previous post regrading when to allocate your time in Athens .It is personal choice and I would also opt for a city at the start of a busy itinerary.

Obviously these are all only suggestions and the original plan may be the one that the one that is chosen. There are numerous variations that could be made including substituting the Cyclades for the Dodecanese but it's probably best to keep it simple at this stage.

There are numerous articles online regarding travelling to Naxos with children. It's worth looking at a few to see what you think.

Which is why we tend to suggest Athens at the end :)

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The Best Hotels in Athens, From Renovated Historic Villas to Dreamy Bohemian Stays

By Monica Mendal

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

For years, getting travelers to see Athens as more than a transient city would take some convincing; the extent of their stay at the best hotels in Athens would merely include a brief bucket-list visit to the Acropolis before scurrying off to the Greek islands . As far as we’re concerned, the ancient city has always been more than its cultural landmarks, but the recent advent of new hotels and trendy restaurants is signaling a watershed moment for Athens tourism. With a creative spirit wafting through the historic city center and extending into some of its bohemian neighborhoods, such as Kolonaki and Psyrri, and even to its seafront, international travelers are finally giving Athens a second glance.

Vogue’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Athens

• For an Iconic Property: Hotel Grande Bretagne
• For a Bohemian Stay: Shila
• For a Central Location: The Dolli
• For a Design Moment: New Hotel Athens
• For a Beachfront Escape: One&Only Aesthesis

From historic mansions converted to intimate design hotels, to cool boutique stays that double as art galleries, to affordable bohemian hamlets for the fashion crowd–all featuring glittering views of the historic city skyline from their rooftops, there’s no shortage of sensational stays in central Athens. Recent years have also seen the revival of the Athenian Riviera, the city’s glamorous seaside, once a port of call for Greece’s high society in the 1960s, with a string of new luxury beachfront hotels stretching across the upmarket seaside suburbs from Vouliagmeni to Glyfada.

Below, our list of the 10 best hotels in Athens to book right now.

Hotel Grande Bretagne

When traveling to Athens, visiting Hotel Grande Bretagne is almost as much of a rite of passage as visiting the Acropolis–even if just for a nightcap at Alexander’s Lounge. The legendary Art Deco hotel, located in the heart of Syntagma Square, has been a meeting point for the glitterati since its induction in 1874 and still manages to maintain that same timeless appeal, articulated through the crystal chandeliers that hang from its grand marbled halls lined with gilded gold frames and and original Corinthian columns. Despite its size–there are 320 accommodations on the property– the five-star hospitality and option for premium butler service makes the place feel intimate. While the lavish old-timey bedrooms make an optimal case for breakfast in bed, you won’t want to miss the Acropolis views and sweet Greek treats in the grand breakfast room, followed by a plunge in the rooftop pool to start your day.

Amenities: 2 pools, fitness center, spa, private parking, restaurant, bar

Bonus Tip: Don’t miss aperitivo hour at Il Giardino Segreto in the Atrium of Alexander’s Lounge, where you can pair your glass of wine with an assortment of local delicacies, such as Sifnos cheese and Tinos artichokes.

Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Str, Athina 105 64, Greece

Following the gentle restoration of a neoclassical mansion in the heart of the Psyrri neighborhood, Monument opened just last year as an intimate boutique hotel with only nine rooms, designed to feel like a private residence. In an effort to preserve elements of the historical property, a team of architects and master restorers ensured the delicate restoration of the building’s original frescoes, carved marble balconies, and grand winding staircase, while each of the bedrooms follow that same alchemy with intricate ceiling murals and limewashed walls. While there’s no restaurant on the property (but an authentic Greek breakfast is served each morning with delicacies such as rizogalo , traditional Greek rice pudding), the optimal location positions you in the heart of Athens’s thriving culinary scene. When you return after a day of exploring, you can wind down in the hotel’s ethereal wellness center, featuring a sauna, hammam, and a single treatment room, where massages and facials can be booked upon request.

Amenities: Spa and wellness center, lounge bar, free breakfast

Bonus Tip: Monument has recently introduced a partnership with bespoke art tour company, Arthens , which allows guests exclusive access to Athens’s art scene with personalized and guided excursions around the city.

By Elise Taylor

By Margaux Anbouba

By Alexis Bennett Parker

Address: 11 Kalamida, Athens, 10554, Greece

Since The Dolli opened its doors last year in the heart of the historic Plaka district, its rooftop has become a popular bolt hole for stylish crowds eager to dine amongst the city’s most scenic skyline. (Make sure to order the taramosalata meze.) As the 46-room hotel-mansion is situated at the foot of the Acropolis, the city’s most famous cultural sight, the Parthenon, feels as though it’s within arm’s reach–especially for hotel guests, who get to indulge in these premium views with a cocktail in hand from the rooftop’s heated infinity pool. Though the magic of the Dolli begins the moment you walk through the front doors into a decadent marble lobby where contemporary works by renowned international artists like Alexander Calder, Jean Cocteau, and Pierre Augustin Rose are on full display.

Amenities: Pool, private parking, family rooms, restaurant, bar

Bonus Tip: If you want to explore historical Plaka without a guide, ask for “The Dolli map” from the concierge for a curated selection of insider spots.

Address: 49 Mitropoleos, Athens, 10556, Greece

You can tap into Athens’s burgeoning creative scene by booking a room at the beloved bohemian boutique hotel , Shila. Stepping inside the small six-suite residence in the city’s trendy Kolonaki neighborhood, you’re immediately immersed in the creative renaissance of modern Athens. It’s a world where old meets new, with an airy bohemian rooftop perfect for jet lag-induced naps and suites featuring patina walls, jewel-toned velvet furniture, and canopy beds. The fantasy doesn’t end there. A selection of clothing from local Greek designers awaits you in the bedroom upon checking in, with love notes like, “We thought you might like these. Want to take them with you? We’ll pack them up for you.” The hotel’s art and furniture is also available for purchase.

Amenities: Rooftop garden, library lounge, breakfast

Bonus Tip: A live-in gallery concept, Shila hosts rotating artist exhibitions, organically showcasing work from painters, photographers, and ceramicists throughout the hotel’s shared spaces and guest rooms that are all for sale; shipping can be arranged on request.

Address: Mantzarou 10 Kolonaki, 10672 Athens, Greece

In contrast to its smaller and more tucked-away sister property Shila, Mona opened a couple of years ago in the heart of Athens’s cultural downtown, nestled in a labyrinth of the city’s most stylish bars, restaurants, and designer shops, as well as a mere 10-minute walk to the Acropolis, which you can see from the hotel’s sun-drenched rooftop terrace. Mona is the industrial counterpart to its more ethereal sister property, in that it’s housed in a 1950s textile factory with a spacious street-facing (and laptop-friendly!) living room, comfortably optimized for remote work. Mona’s 20 suites, however, maintain the more intimate and bohemian elán that Shila is known for–with gauzy bed canopies and standalone tubs.

Amenities: Rooftop terrace, bar, living room, underground venue space, breakfast

Bonus Tip: During the summer months, Mona’s rooftop plays host to Club Monamour, a rotating pop-up series of social gatherings and creative showcases from local artists and brands.

Address: Kakourgodikiou 4, Athina 105 54, Greece

Apollo Palm Hotel

Last summer, the retro Apollo Palm Hotel opened on a quiet street in the vibrant neighborhood of Psyrri, among the city’s hippest cafes, bars, and art galleries. Its 48 mid-century modern guest rooms surround a tropical courtyard where guests can dine under the shade of a giant palm tree at the wine bar and bistro. Meanwhile, the sun-drenched rooftop cocktail bar offers unparalleled views of the Acropolis–especially at sunset–and is a favorite for guests and locals alike for its assortment of tapas and inventive cocktail list designed by Alekos Alexiadis, the owner of Athens’ beloved Santa Rosa Bar. Catering to the creative class, Apollo Palm Hotel also hosts special musical and cultural events, including open-air cinema nights and Sunday sunset parties.

Amenities: Rooftop terrace, family rooms, restaurant, bar

Bonus Tip: On the weekends, guests can enjoy a Mediterranean brunch on the rooftop terrace.

Address : Kranaou 3, Athina 105 53, Greece

Ergon House

Part hotel, part foodie destination, Ergon House is the brainchild of the two Greek brothers behind Ergon Foods, a fast-growing Greek food company selling artisanal Mediterranean products. Situated under a large glass atrium, the property is host to an expansive marketplace, where among its stalls, you’ll find a deli, fishmonger, butcher, green grocer, bakery, and coffee bar. You can enjoy your epicurean delicacies to-go or at the restaurant and rooftop bar on site. If that wasn’t enough, there are 38 modern hotel rooms above the market, offering a clever solution to that inevitable food-induced coma after you’ve indulged too much–but don’t fret, as you can work it off at the hotel gym before you do it all again the next day.

Amenities: Gym, restaurant, rooftop terrace, bar, free breakfast

Bonus tip: New this month, the brothers launched their latest project: Ergon Bakehouse , a bakery-inspired house with 29 rooms, where you’ll wake up with the smells of sourdough wafting through the air from the downstairs 72h Artisanal Bakery .

Address: Mitropoleos 23, Athens, 10563, Greece

New Hotel Athens

Photo: Courtesy of New Hotel

It’s no secret that Athens has been experiencing a creative renaissance as of late. Stepping into the New Hotel is a transportive journey that’ll pluck you from the ancient city and deposit you into this new world of contemporary art and design, dreamed up by renowned Greek art collector, Dakis Joannou. In the rooftop restaurant, Art Lounge, artwork by notable artists like Jeff Koons adorn the walls, while at the ground-floor restaurant, New Taste, an installation made from abandoned pieces of furniture wood, reminiscent of favella trees extends into the lobby. Each of the property’s 79 rooms also host their own living art installation–most notably in the penthouse suite, where a window above the bed frames the Acropolis with such act precision, it almost feels like a painting.

Amenities: Private parking, family rooms, spa, fitness center, restaurant, bar

Bonus Tip: Check out Art Lounge’s extensive library stocked with over 2000 art books.

Address: 16, Fillelinon str., Athens, 10557, Greece

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

In 1961, the Athenian Riviera became a holiday hotspot for members of prominent business and ship-owning families when the first 60 cabanas were built along the coastline that’s located just 30 minutes from Athens’s historic city center. In 2019, the opening of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel set out to revive the glamorous spirit of this bygone era on that same plot of paradise, successfully heralding a new experience of luxury for a modern era. Spread along an expansive 74 acres, the resort features over 300 suites and bungalows, a seafront spa, three private beaches, two pools, as well as eight seaside dining outlets–three of which were designed by cult-favorite interior architect Martin Brudnizki .

Amenities: 2 swimming pools, spa, fitness center, 3 tennis courts, soccer field, basketball court, free parking, restaurants, bar, 3 private beaches

Bonus Tip: Don’t sleep on a spa treatment as the FSAthens Spa won the Spa of the Year: Eastern Europe at last year’s World Spa & Wellness Awards.

Address: 40 Apollonos Street, Vouliagmeni, Athens, 16671, Greece

One&Only Aesthesis

When it came to opening its first resort in Greece, One&Only Resorts set its sights on the resort town of Glyfada, a resort town on the glamorous Athenian Riviera. This November marked the unveiling of One&Only Aesthesis, a 50 acre coastal hideaway nodding to the vibrant 1960s elán that the area is most known for. Redefining the concept of al fresco living, the resort boasts a wide selection of suites, bungalows, residences and villas with capacious outdoor living spaces featuring private pools, fragrant gardens, and breathtaking vistas over the Aegean–best enjoyed from under your outdoor rain shower, if you ask us. Along with property’s three bars, guests can choose between two food venues, varying from a Greek-Italian restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Ettore Botrini, to a new pop-up this season by Spanish chef Paco Morales, who is bringing his signature Andalusian cuisine in a casual setting with family-style dishes designed to share.

Amenities: Pool, fitness center, spa, free parking, 6 restaurants, bar, family rooms, kid’s club

Bonus Tip: New this summer, One&Only Aesthesis is unveiling its partnership with Guerlain, marking the debut of the first-ever Guerlain Spa in Greece.

Address: Leoforos Poseidonos, Glyfada, Athens, 16674, Greece

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These Are 10 Of The Most Important Ancient Greek Cities To See

• Ancient Greece extended beyond modern Greece, encompassing parts of Turkey, Italy, Sicily, and Libya.
• Many of the most important ancient Greek cities are located outside of Greece.
• These cities, such as Athens, Syracuse, and Cyrene, are notable for their extensive ruins and historical significance.

Ancient Greece expanded to include much more than modern Greece. It included much of modern coastal Turkey, southern Italy, Sicily, and Libya. While Athens may be the most famous and impressive Ancient Greek city to see today, many of the best ancient cities are outside of Greece (such as the impressive ancient Greek city of Cyrene in Libya ).

Here are ten of the most important ancient Greek cities around the Mediterranean worth exploring today.

Athens, Greece

Athens is the most famous ancient city of the Hellenic world and is the capital of Greece today. It is regarded as the birthplace of democracy, and its Acropolis is arguably the most impressive ancient Greek acropolis today.

Visitors can see many ancient Greek ruins, from the Pantheon to the reconstructed Agora of Athens .

• Remarkable For: Acropolis, Center Of The Hellenic World

Syracuse, Sicily

Syracuse was a Greek city in Sicily that was founded as a colony of Corinth. It grew to become the most important city of Magna Grecia (the part of Greece in Italy and Sicily), and at its height, it rivaled Athens itself.

Syracuse found itself caught between the powers of Carthage and Rome and eventually fell under Roman control, but it continued as an important city throughout the Roman period.

• Remarkable For: Most Important Magna Grecia City & Archimedes

Cyrene, Libya

Cyrene was founded by Greek colonists around the 7th century BC and was one of the most important Greek cities in the region. It was from here that Simon of Cyrene, who is recorded to have borne the cross of Christ, hailed (Cyrene was also an important Jewish center at the time).

The ruins of Cyrene are among the most impressive but difficult to visit as they are in Libya.

• Remarkable For: Extensive Ruins

Related: One Of The Oldest & Most Impressive Ancient Greek Cities Is In Libya

Neapolis/Naples

The major southern Italian city of Naples was founded by the ancient Greeks as Neapolis (or New City). It was founded by Greeks from the nearby city of Cumae around the 8th century BC.

Then, when the Romans took over Naples, they respected it as a center of Greek culture, and the people there continued to speak Greek.

• Remarkable For: Important Greek Center In Italy

Mycenae, Greece

While most of the Greek cities on this list date from the Classic Greek period, the ancient city of Mycenae is much older.

Mycenae was one of the largest and most important Greek cities of the later Bronze Age (called the Mycenae period after this city). According to the Iliad, King Agamemnon ruled Mycenae and attacked Troy.

• Remarkable For: Largest City of Bronze Age Greece

Cumae, Italy

Cumae was the first of the ancient Greek colonies on the mainland of Italy. It was founded in the 8th century BC by settlers from Euboea in Greece.

It grew to become a strong colony and had an important role in influencing the development of the Etruscans and Romans - including by diffusing the Greek alphabet on which the Latin alphabet is based.

• Remarkable For: Oldest Greek City In Italy

Ephesus, Turkey

Ephesus is one of the most famous Greco-Roman cities in Turkey. It was once a very important center of the Hellenic world and was home to the Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

After the harbor was silted up, the city was abandoned, and now it is one of the top Greco-Roman cities to see today.

• Remarkable For: Exceptional Ruins

Related: The Temple Of Artemis Was A 7th Wonder & The First Built Of Marble (& Where To See Its Ruins)

Corinth, Greece

Corinth was one of the most powerful ancient Greek city-states and sat on the Isthmus of Corinth (the modern Corthinian Canal is one of the most eye-catching attractions in Greece).

It was midway between Athens and Sparta and is easy to visit from Athens today. At its peak, it may have had a population of around 90,000 people.

• Remarkable For: Impressive Ruins & Easy Excursion From Athens

Sparta, Greece

Sparta is located on the Peloponnese Peninsula and is famous for being the most militarized of the Greek city-states.

300 Spartans famously fought the Persians at Thermopylae, and later, they fought a protracted war with Athens (and eventually won). Today, there is not much to see, and little of the city is excavated.

• Remarkable For: Warrior Culture

Related: This Is Sparta! Or, Rather, What's Left Of Sparta: What To Know When Visiting The Spartan Ruins In Greece

Olympia, Greece

Also located on the Peloponnese Peninsula is the ancient sacred site of Olympia (not to be confused with Mount Olympus).

This was one of the most sacred Greek sites where fighting was forbidden, and the Olympic Games were held there once every four years. Visitors can see the impressive ruins of the temple's stadiums and the ceremonial lighting of the Olympia torch today.

• Remarkable For: Origin Of Olympic Games

5 Places to Travel Abroad With Your Kids This Year

London, lapland, and tanzania are on the cards in 2024..

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TAASA Lodge offers a walking safari among several other singular experiences.

Courtesy of Go2Africa

Is it worth traveling abroad with your kids, especially with so many great options in the United States? Short answer: yes. That’s especially true if you consider one of these family-friendly destinations our writers have visited in recent months. They’ve been roaming with their children in the United Kingdom, Japan, Tanzania, Greece, and Swedish Lapland and have unearthed some great spots for the whole fam for 2024. Just try not to think about the flight there (and especially the flight home) . . .

Osaka, Japan

Theme parks and enticing street food are among the highlights of a visit to Osaka.

Photo by Usa-Pyon/Shutterstock

Wandering through Osaka’s neon-clad neighborhood of Shinsekai with my son—a hard-to-impress tween with a thirst for photo-worthy culinary creations—we passed takoyaki stands advertising their octopus-based wares with 3D tentacle-covered displays and a conveyor belt sushi joint adorned with an enormous rotating nigiri platter. Ultimately, we were drawn into Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi , a restaurant boasting expansive pools of fish that you can catch with provided bait and rods. Here, they’ll cook and serve whatever you reel in—which, in our case, was a beast large enough to feed a family twice our size.

Memory-making experiences like this are only the beginning here, where maximalist signage beckons hungry travelers at every turn. And despite rising food costs across the globe, affordable eats are still easy to find in Osaka, making it an enticing choice for anyone looking to test their taste buds without breaking the bank. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love in this dynamic destination, and fun-loving families will find a variety of singular eateries. Dine alongside Pikachu at the popular Pokemon Café or enjoy impossibly cute Mario-inspired meals at Super Nintendo World at Universal Japan , which will soon offer even more options in its new Donkey Kong–themed land , slated to open in 2024.

Where to stay

For an immersive experience, families can sleep on traditional tatami mats at Ukiyoe Ryokan . The Cross Hotel Osaka , meanwhile, provides comfy digs located steps from the bustling food stalls in the Dotonbori area.— Amanda Adler

“I spy” gets a whole lot more interesting when there are leopards, hippos, and warthogs to peep.

Taking a toddler on safari is not for the faint of heart; I knew if I was gonna do it, I needed serious help. Enter Go2Africa , a seasoned tour operator staffed by specialists who’ve traveled extensively with small children throughout East and Southern Africa. These experts knew exactly which camps were the family-friendliest and how to safely travel between them. They arranged private safari drives for us in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site with Africa’s densest population of large animals, and a quiet corner of Serengeti National Park. Over multiple game drives in the two regions, we spotted lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches, flamingos, warthogs, and roughly a gazillion wildebeest, but it was a dazzle of zebras lingering within arm’s reach of our 4x4 that really had my son clapping up a storm.

Check out TAASA Lodge , a boutique bush camp in a 15,000-acre concession north of the Serengeti, and Gibb’s Farm , an 80-acre organic farm and coffee plantation less than an hour from Ngorongoro Crater. Both properties hire guides, trackers, and staff who truly love children, as opposed to merely tolerate them. Both also have swimming pools—a fantastic way for kiddos to spend some time in between game drives. —Ashlea Halpern, contributing editor

Athens, Greece

Ancient history comes alive in Athens.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

While history and ancient ruins may seem boring for little ones at first, Athens is actually an entertaining and educational family destination. Before you even leave, get your kids into Greek mythology and history—there’s the graphic novel series Olympians that reinterprets the mythologies and a funny and engaging podcast by National Geographic called Greeking Out that my eight-year-old son loves. Once you land, kids will be eager to see the sites that otherwise might look like crumbling dirt. When I visited last summer with my husband and two young kids, I booked a private tour with Be a Greek specifically meant for families. Our guide kept both of my children (and my husband and I) engaged with a scavenger hunt, trivia, games, and dynamic storytelling as we traipsed around the city, ticking off sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square to see the changing of the presidential guard.

Visiting the Acropolis is a bit more challenging, so be sure to go in early morning or evening when it’s cooler and less crowded, and leave the stroller behind (way too many steps!). Kids will also enjoy the Acropolis Museum (request a “family backpack” for educational resources, puzzles, and more); riding the bright red Athens Happy Train ; going up Mount Lycabettus via cable car; and strolling around the picturesque Plaka neighborhood. When you need to escape the heat, head outside the city center to the Athens Riviera for some time at Astir Beach or to the still-in-progress Ellinikon , which already features an incredible playground and park, with more to come.

To be in the center, stay at the new boutique Apollo Palm Hotel , which offers triple rooms perfect for a family of three (or four if one child is in a crib, which can be provided) while still boasting a chic design, gorgeous rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast buffet. For a resort experience, complete with a kids club, beach, and pool, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has spacious rooms and an incredibly friendly and helpful staff who clearly love children.— Devorah Lev-Tov

The Jokkmokk market has been around for hundreds of years.

Photo by Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Swedish Lapland

My kids were just toddlers when we visited Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where I pushed them in strollers as they teetered across packed-snow floors in rooms carved out from river ice by artists from around the world. (We sanely slept in the warm accommodations on site.)

On a visit this past winter on my own, I found several other reasons to plot a trip back soon with my now-older crew. The best winter adventures in this part of Sweden come with experiential elements that go beyond chasing the northern lights. At Arctic Bath in the small hamlet of Harads, I watched a British family with elementary school–age kids brave cold plunges together following a sauna session, stepping down a metal ladder straight into the frozen Lule River and whooping it up before beelining it for the outdoor hot tubs.

Nearby, the whimsical variety of cabins on stilts at Treehotel —including one shaped like a bird’s nest and another like a UFO—were pure fantastical fun, with ice fishing and snowshoeing among the activities. Sapmi Nature Camp offers three-night packages to stay with Sámi hosts in private lavvu tents on the family’s grazing lands for reindeer while learning about their modern way of life. And if you’re here in early February, the excitement of the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market draws hundreds of Indigenous people from all over the Sápmi region of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia for an outdoor festival with live music, shopping for silverwork and traditional clothing, and many more activities.

All of the aforementioned stays are a treat worth planning a trip around. But I’m dreaming of a multi-generational winter adventure at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge , where you can arrive via dogsled from nearby Jukkasjärvi. Families stay in a luxurious four-bedroom cabin with its own sauna and outdoor hot tub overlooking Lake Väkkärä. (Smaller cabins can accommodate more people right nearby.) The lodge’s wilderness guides lead all manner of excursions—including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.— Terry Ward

London, U.K.

With musicals, green spaces, and seemingly endless restaurants, no two days in London are the same.

Courtesy of One Aldwych

From a wickedly funny Yeoman Warder guide at the Tower to a bike tour with London Bicycle and a visit to the Harry Potter studios (where all eight movies were filmed), my family’s weeklong trip across the pond proved to be equal parts educational and fun. We also adored the Matilda musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, in the West End, with all four of us singing along to its catchy tunes as we left the theater. The city’s many green spaces (Hyde Park; Kensington Gardens, with the Princess Diana Memorial Playground; Battersea Park) also allow ample opportunity for little legs to stretch, run, and stop to smell the roses. With a food scene that’s the stuff of legend, eating at Indian street food chain Dishoom and plant-based Mallow in Borough Market were also musts and didn’t disappoint.

London has many great hotels . I liked the elegant 101-room One Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden, within blocks of theaters, restaurants, and museums, such as the fantastic London Transport Museum (where kids can see double-decker buses and grown-ups can marvel at the history of the Tube). Along with spacious suites, thoughtful touches like the daily replenished complimentary mini-bar (with biscuits and chips to keep little ones happy) and a “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” themed afternoon tea make the hotel truly perfect for families.— Tanvi Chheda