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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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Must-see attractions in Athens

Acropolis Museum

Acropolis Area

This dazzling museum at the foot of the Acropolis' southern slope showcases its surviving treasures. The collection covers the Archaic period to the Roman…

Designed to be the pre-eminent monument of the Acropolis, the Parthenon epitomises the glory of Ancient Greece. Meaning 'virgin's apartment', it's…

The Acropolis is the most important ancient site in the Western world. Crowned by the Parthenon, it stands sentinel over Athens, visible from almost…

Gazi, Keramikos & Metaxourgio

This lush, tranquil site is named for the potters who settled it around 3000 BC. It was used as a cemetery through the 6th century AD. The grave markers…

Ancient Agora

The Agora was ancient Athens' heart, the lively hub of administrative, commercial, political and social activity. Socrates expounded his philosophy here;…

Byzantine & Christian Museum

This outstanding museum, based in the 1848 Villa Ilissia, offers exhibition halls, most of them underground, crammed with religious art. The exhibits go…

Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

In 1930 Antonis Benakis – a politician's son born in Alexandria, Egypt, in the late 19th century – endowed what is perhaps the finest museum in Greece…

National Archaeological Museum

Housing the world's finest collection of Greek antiquities in an enormous neoclassical building, this museum is one of Athens' top attractions. Treasures…

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Syntagma & Plaka

A can't-miss on two counts: it's a marvellous temple, once the largest in Greece, and it's smack in the centre of Athens. Of the temple's 104 original…

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

Sitting beneath a man-made slope above Faliron Bay, and shaded by a 'Magic Carpet' roof covered with solar panels, this stunning Renzo Piano building,…

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

This large amphitheatre was built in AD 161 by wealthy Roman Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife Regilla. It was excavated in 1857–58 and completely…

Roman Agora

This was the city’s market area under Roman rule, and it occupied a much larger area than the current site borders. You can see a lot from outside the…

Museum of Cycladic Art

The 1st floor of this exceptional private museum is dedicated to the iconic minimalist marble Cycladic figurines, dating from 3000 BC to 2000 BC. They…

Church of Agios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris

At the foot of Filopappou Hill, this 16th-century church may not be the oldest in Athens, but it is certainly one of the loveliest, with a heavy timber…

Hadrian’s Arch

The Roman emperor Hadrian had a great affection for Athens. Although he did his fair share of spiriting its Classical artwork to Rome, he also embellished…

Museum of Islamic Art

While not particularly large, this museum houses a significant collection of Islamic art. Four floors of a mansion display, in ascending chronological…

National Garden

The former royal gardens, designed by Queen Amalia in 1838, are a pleasantly unkempt park that makes a welcome shady refuge from summer heat and traffic…

Museum of Greek Popular Instruments

A single avid ethnomusicologist collected almost 1200 folk instruments; the best are on display in three floors of this house-turned-museum. Headphones…

Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation

Opened in October 2019, this new museum showcases the collection of modern and contemporary artworks belonging to shipping magnate Basil Goulandris and…

Panathenaic Stadium

With its serried rows of white Pentelic marble seats built into a ravine next to Ardettos Hill, this ancient-turned-modern stadium is a draw both for…

Whether you want a shot of art, a clever design morsel or a refreshing drink, stop in at TAF, a just-barely updated complex of 1870s brick buildings. The…

Stavros Niarchos Park

Athens is short on green spaces, so this vast seaside park is a blessing. Covering a man-made slope that incorporates the roof of the Stavros Niarchos…

Temple of Athena Nike

The small but exquisitely proportioned Temple of Athena Nike sits at the southwest edge of the Acropolis, jutting in front and to the right of the…

Theatre of Dionysos

The tyrant Peisistratos introduced the annual Festival of the Great Dionysia during the 6th century BC, and held it in the world's first theatre, on the…

Tower of the Winds

This Pentelic marble tower within the Roman Agora, likely built in the 2nd century BC, is both beautiful and functional. Devised by Andronicus, a…

Temple of Hephaistos

On the western edge of the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Hephaistos, god of the forge, was surrounded by foundries and metalwork shops. It was one of the…

Lykavittos Hill

The 277m summit of Lykavittos – 'Hill of Wolves', from ancient times, when it was wilder than it is now – gives the finest panoramas of the city and the…

National Library of Greece

In 2018, the National Library shifted more than 720,000 items from its collection to this stunning new building that is part of the Stavros Niarchos…

Industrial Gas Museum

It's fascinating to follow the walking route that runs through the old gasworks in Gazi, in operation from 1862 until 1984. The preserved complex of…

The Propylaia formed the monumental entrance to the Acropolis. Built by Mnesicles between 437 BC and 432 BC, it ranks in architectural brilliance with the…

Agora Museum

Within the Ancient Agora, this museum is packed with archaeological finds, but can get uncomfortably crowded if a tour group is cycling through. It is set…

Jewish Museum

This small museum traces the history of the Jewish community in Greece – starting with the deeply rooted Romaniote community established in the 3rd…

Clinging to the north slope of the Acropolis, the tiny Anafiotika district is a beautiful, architecturally distinct subdistrict of Plaka. In the mid-1800s…

Benaki Museum at 138 Pireos St

While the main Benaki Museum of Greek Culture displays the classical and traditional, this annexe focuses on modern and inventive. Apart from a few…

Presidential Guard

Get a close-up look at the evzones, the traditionally dressed Greek soldiers, standing in front of their main barracks and, further down Irodou Attikou,…

Athens' First Cemetery

Under Ottoman rule, Greeks buried their dead at their local church. Only after independence in 1821 was this city cemetery established. It's a peaceful…

Erechtheion

Although the Parthenon was the most impressive monument of the Acropolis, it was more showpiece than working sanctuary. That role fell to the Erechtheion…

Areopagus Hill

This rocky outcrop below the Acropolis has great views over the Ancient Agora. According to mythology, it was here that Ares was tried by the council of…

Moni Kaisarianis

Nestled on the lower slope of Mt Hymettos east of the city, this beautiful 11th-century working monastery is maintained as a well-restored archaeological…

National Sculpture & Art Gallery

While the National Gallery is being rebuilt, a small portion of the collection is on display at the National Sculpture Gallery, in the former royal…

More destinations you need to see

Top 18 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Athens, the capital of Greece, was the heart of ancient Greek civilization, and people from around the world still come here to visit early Greek landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Meanwhile, the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum preserve sculptures, vases, jewelry, and more from Ancient Greece, offering guests a chance to step back in time.

However, these ancient structures and museums aren't the only must-see attractions in Athens. Diving into the nightlife in the Psiri neighborhood and shopping in the Plaka are favorite pastimes for tourists and residents alike.

Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

The Acropolis and the Parthenon dominate the skyline of Athens. These hilltop sights are stunning, and the view from the Acropolis of the city and the surrounding temples is one that will stay with you forever.

The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a rocky hilltop overlooking Athens; it's also the site of a number of ancient buildings like the Parthenon, which is one of the most significant symbols of early western civilization that have made it to modern times. Constructed between 447 and 438 B.C. and co-designed by Ictinus and Callicrates, the Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena at the height of the Athenian Empire.

At the Acropolis, join a ​ tour group  organized by language—though there may be a short wait while a full group is gathered. These tours are led by licensed guides and take guests through the structures still standing in the Acropolis.

The New Acropolis Museum nearby is also an attraction worth seeing; discounted tickets are available for access to both. Alternatively, book an organized tour ahead of time, which will generally include transportation from your hotel.

Learn History at the National Archaeological Museum

Hiroshi Higuchi/Getty Images

With artifacts dating back to 6000 B.C. and covering everything from prehistory to Greek antiquity, The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is considered one of the greatest museums in the world. While even a brief stop at the museum will impress, first-time visitors should allow at least two to three hours for a full tour of the exhibits and artifacts.

However, you could easily spend an entire day learning about the history of the region here, since the museum covers millennia of Greek culture—starting with the Cycladic Island civilization, the Minoans, and the Mycenaeans and continuing through the Greco-Roman world.

Catch the Sunset at Cape Sounion

Jane Sweeney/Getty Images

A great afternoon trip from Athens, Cape Sounion is one of those destinations that is as much a favorite with locals as it is with tourists, mainly for the breathtaking views you'll find here. A highlight of the cape is the Temple of Poseidon, a 5th Century temple with Doric columns that's become a favorite sunset-viewing spot for visitors.

While it is possible to visit Sounion by public bus from Athens, most visitors prefer to drive or to take an organized tour. You can book one directly ahead of your trip through your hotel or by visiting a travel agency in Athens.

Visit the Seaside City of Piraeus

Andrew Holt/Getty Images

To enjoy the seaside atmosphere of Athens, slip away to Piraeus, easily reachable by the Metro, and have dinner at one of the pricey but charming seaside taverns of Microlimano.

Piraeus, the port city of Athens, is not quite a Greek island but is reminiscent of the Greek island vibe. Allow yourself some extra time and stop by the excellent Piraeus Archaeological Museum or the equally-fascinating Nautical Museum.

You can also take an open-topped bus tour between Athens and Piraeus, making it an easy and interesting way to get back and forth between the two cities.

Hike to the Top of Lycabettus Hill

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

For an escape from the heat of Athens in summer, the wooded top of Lycabettus Hill provides plenty of breeze and shade as well as a few great attractions including the 19th century Chapel of St. George, a theatre, and a restaurant.

Visitors can access Lycabettus Hill via a three-minute cable car ride or by taking a circular hiking trail up the 277 meters to the top. While the cable car ride is quick, you won't get a view of the city on the way up or down, but while the hiking trail may be more scenic, it can be a grueling climb in the heat of the summer in the city.

Celebrate Culture at Syntagma Square

CEZARY ZAREBSKI PHOTOGRPAHY/Getty Images

Also known as "Constitution Square," Syntagma Square is the heart of Athens in many ways. Not only is it a large public square that often hosts holiday events, but it's also the location of several of Athens' most renowned luxury hotels and is an intense public transportation hub.

Additionally, Syntagma Square has the Parliament Building along one side, and the daily " Changing of the Guard " here provides a colorful photo opportunity on your trip—as well as a chance to experience an active part of the current government of Greece.

Once you're done touring the sites on the square, head down pedestrian-only Ermou Street for access to some of Athens' better upscale shopping.

Explore the Plaka and Other Neighborhoods

Ken Welsh/Getty Images

The Plaka is the area of winding streets around the Acropolis. It's renowned for its small shops, restaurants, and local architecture. While it's touristy, you'll still find the area charming for its selection of Athenian crafts, Greecian food, and local art.

Stop somewhere for a frappe (iced instant coffee), especially during the summer, and watch passersby. It's also nice to visit at night with the tavernas staying open until late, and Cine Paris often shows classic movies outdoors. The whitewashed homes of the adjacent Anafiotika neighborhood give the area a Greek-island feel.

Take in the Nightlife Scene in Athens

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

With many tourist shops open until 10 p.m. and a number of nightclubs, tavernas, and bars open until dawn across the city, the nightlife culture of Athens is thriving—even for tourists.

While Plaka may be popular for shopping, eating a casual dinner, or having an early drink, consider heading to Psiri for parties that go all night, dance clubs featuring international DJs, and bars that serve until dawn.

Wander Around the Agora

Daniel Frauchiger/Getty Images

The Ancient Agora of Classical Athens is the best-known example of an ancient Greek agora (marketplace) in the country. You'll find it northwest of the Acropolis, bounded on the south by the hill of the Areopagus and on the west by the hill of Agoraios Kolonos.

This spot offers plenty of things to see and explore—all of which can be seen in a few hours. Visit the temple of Hephaestus—a rebuilt colonnade that houses the Agora Museum—and check out a number of small monuments throughout the Agora itself. A multiple-site combo ticket makes it a particularly good bargain to combine a visit here with the Acropolis and other nearby sites.

Stroll Through the National Garden

Sjaak Kempe/Flickr/CC BY-2.0

Located in the heart of the city between the Kolonaki and Pangrati neighborhoods near the Plaka and the Acropolis, the National Garden is a public park that's home to 15.5 hectares of landscaped gardens and trails that are open from sunrise to sunset.

The National Garden is also home to a number of ancient ruins and mosaics as well as a duck pond, a Botanical Museum, a cafe, a playground, and a children's library.

Take a Seat at the Theatre of Dionysus

The Theatre of Dionysus is located at the foot of the Acropolis and is considered the oldest theater in the world. Poets and playwrights like Aeschylus, Aristophanes, Euripides, and Sophocles premiered their works on this stage in the 5th century B.C., and the first drama was presented here by Thespis in about 530 B.C.

Whether you're a fan of modern theater or not, the views and historical significance of this site makes adding it to your itinerary worth it—especially if you're already visiting the Acropolis nearby.

Climb to the Philopappos Monument

Carol Roddato/Flickr/CC BY-SA 3.0 

Dedicated to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince from the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st and 2nd centuries, the Philopappos Monument is an ancient Greek mausoleum located southwest of the Acropolis on Mouseion Hill. 

Easily accessible via a walking trail and staircase through lush greenery, the Philopappos Monument is open to all—day or night—but is best around sunset for spectacular views of the southern part of the city.

Attend a Concert at Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a stone theatre structure originally completed in 161 A.D. and reconstructed in 1950 that still hosts concerts to this day. While free tours of the site are available throughout the daytime, nighttime concerts require tickets to attend.

Take a Trip Through Time at the Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is a three-floor art and history museum dedicated to Greek culture throughout the ages. Founded by art collector Antonis Benakis in 1930, the museum traces Greek history from prehistoric times to the present.

Exhibits in the museum include Neolithic vases, Archaic ceramics, Classical sculpture, Byzantine and Ottoman artifacts, and a variety of paintings, documents, and weapons from the Greek War of Independence from 1821 to 1829.

Run Around the Panathenaic Stadium

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Built for the 1896 Olympics, the Panathenaic Stadium is an almost-exact replica of the stadium built for the Panathenaic Games in 330 B.C. and served as the site of several games for the 2004 Summer Olympics. Built to hold 45,000 spectators and tall enough to see the National Garden and Acropolis from its highest seats, the Panathenaic Stadium makes a great stop on your tour of Athens.

Pray at the Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea

The Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea is one of the oldest churches in Athens, originally constructed in 1050, dedicated to the Greek Orthodox faith. Located on Ermou Street at the edge of the Plaka, this small church offers a reprieve from the busy shopping district outside its walls. However, the interior is only open for viewings on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tour the Byzantine and Christian Museum

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Located on Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, this unique museum is home to over 25,000 artifacts from the 3rd Century A.D. to the Late Middle Ages. Founded in 1914, the Byzantine and Christian Museum houses pictures, scriptures, frescoes, pottery, fabrics, manuscripts, and copies of artifacts from the height of the Byzantine and Christian Empires in Greece.

Marvel at the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Although not much of this structure remains standing, the 15 surviving columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus have scrolls and acanthus patterns that harken back to the temple's original significance. 

Construction on the temple started in the 6th century B.C. but wasn't completed until the 2nd century A.D. under the rule of Emperor Hadrian. However, it fell less than a century later in 267 when the Herulian invasion sacked the city and the stone from many of the 104 original columns was quarried to rebuild other structures around Athens.

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The heart of Greece

Athens Attractions

Look no further than Athens attractions! From towering temples to bustling markets, Athens offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern culture. Discover the top must-see sites and hidden gems that make Athens the ultimate destination for your next adventure.

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Athens Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing

Wherever you look, Athens is full of monuments of ancient and newer culture. Athens is a city full of contrasts and always has something new to discover behind its touring showcase. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, or if you are just passing through Athens to a destination in one of the Greek islands, our entertainment guide in Athens aims to offer you the best choices for making the days and Your nights in Athens, more interesting.

Explore the ancient ruins of Athens and discover the secrets of the Acropolis. Walk through the winding streets of the Plaka district and experience the culture and history of this timeless city. Taste the delicious food of Greek cuisine, from fresh seafood to sweet pastries. Enjoy the nightlife of the city and find yourself in the lively bars and clubs of the city center. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, to learn about the fascinating history of the city. Shop for souvenirs at the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, or explore the nearby islands of Aegina and Poros. Visit the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, to take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Climb to the top of Lycabettus Hill and experience the beauty of the city from a unique perspective. Soak up the sun at one of the many beaches around Athens and enjoy a relaxing day. Immerse yourself in the stories of Ancient Greece in the open-air theatre of Herodes Atticus.

Visit the birthplace of democracy and experience the beauty of Athens, Greece. Check out our ultimate Athens bucket list of 35 essential things to do and see, from the Acropolis and Parthenon to the picturesque Plaka district and the bustling Monastiraki flea market. Explore the city’s ancient ruins, its vibrant culture, and its stunning Mediterranean coastline. Discover the ultimate Athens adventure today!

Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing

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Ancient athens.

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Athens Museums

Top 35 attractions in athens.

Athens is a historic city with many tourist attractions and sightseeing opportunities. The most popular attraction is the Acropolis, which includes the Parthenon and is located on a hill 156 meters high. Other popular attractions include the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Visitors can also explore the Plaka and Anafiotika neighborhoods, Syntagma Square, and the Temple of Hephaestus. Additionally, there are opportunities to visit the island of Hydra and ancient Delphi. The Plaka area is recommended for shopping and dining with great views of the Acropolis.

• Best Hotels in Athens
• Car Renting

Map Of Athens Attractions

Visit the sacred rock of the Acropolis, one of the most photographed sights in the world! This unique destination every year is a pole of attraction for millions of visitors from all over the world. See unique beauty and architectural masterpieces such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena, Nike and the Propylaea. Enjoy the ancient marbles and the impressive views of the city.

Parthenon is the emblem of Athens and probably of Greece as well. Parthenon is considered the most perfect Doric temple ever built, and one of the most known and recognizable monuments in the world. The temple of Parthenon is known for its imposing position on the Acropolis, its architectural refinements and the reflection of the ancient Greek culture throughout the centuries.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora of Athens was the heart of the ancient city: a large, open square that constituted the seat of justice, the political, economic, administrative, social, religious and cultural center of the city, where all citizens assembled to carry out any kind of activity. At the beginning of the 6th century BC, at the time of the great Solon legislator, the area was transformed into a public gathering place for citizens.

Panathenaic Stadium

Walk to the white marble stadium, the home of the first Olympic Games of 1896. The Panathenaic Stadium was built between 330 and 329 BC. Between 140 and 144 AD, the Stadium was repaired by Herodes Atticus. During antiquity, it was used for the Olympic Games where they honored the goddess Athena. The Panathenaic Stadium is today a tourist attraction and is used only in special cases.

Odeon of Herodes

The famous Odeon of Herodes Atticus was built during the 2nd century BC. AD, by Tiberius Claudius Atticus Herod, a well-known son of a great Athenian family and benefactor, in memory of Rilglas’ wife, who died in 160 AD. The conservatory, mainly used for musical events, was roofed and had a total capacity of 5,000 people. The conservatory was destroyed in 267 AD by Hercules and was never rebuilt.

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is located in the heart of the city, in front of the Greek Parliament. Until 1843, it was called the Palace Square, as in the present House there were the palaces of King Otto. Access: Syntagma Square is a transport hub, with many bus lines, trolleybus, metro and tram stops, while it is also connected to the airport Eleftherios Venizelos.

Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki is a district of Athens around Monastiraki Square, which extends to the south side of Ermou Street, from the height of the Mitropoleos Square to the Thissio Square. Its name comes from the old church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, located on the square. In Monastiraki Square dominates the old Tzistarakis Mosque, which today houses an annex of the Folk Art Museum.

Hadrian's Arch

The Adrian’s Gate (or the Arch of Adrian) is a monumental gate from Roman period. It covered an ancient road from the center of Athens to a complex of settlements on the eastern side of the city, including the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It was believed that this gate was constructed to commemorate the adventus of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and to be honored for his many benefacts in the city.

National Archaeological Museum

One cannot visit Greece without exploring rich history it carries within itself so make sure not miss chance visit National Archaeological museum which holds more than 11000 artifacts dating back centuries ago giving perfect overview about past civilizations lived throughout region. The museum is home to a vast collection of sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and other objects,

Central Market

It is a unique structure of a well-organized district market where many food traders, such as meat, poultry, seafood, agricultural products, and more are housed. With a history of 130 years and architecture influenced by architecture in central Europe, Varvakios Market has every reason to be considered ασ one of the ornaments of Athens. The market was completed in 1886.

Paved alleys, uphill streets on the edge of the Acropolis, neoclassical houses, make up a unique setting that enchants the visitor and travels. Plaka is a charming historic district in the center of Athens under the Acropolis. After WWII, Plaka’s buildings were preserved as a whole. In the area, there are museums, taverns, restaurants, cafes and tourist shops, and buildings of famous citizens of old Athens.

Athens Metro

The Athens Metro consists of 3 lines with a total length of 72.3 km. Building the Athens Metro is perhaps the largest archaeological excavation project ever undertaken! The metro network of Athens is one of the most modern in Europe and has been described as an underground modern day museum. It also offers access to the Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” in eastern Attica.

City Sightseeing Bus

If you have a limited time in Athens this is probably the best way to get to know the sights of a city. According to the City Sightseeing Hop on – Hop off the system, the route lasts 90 minutes, and the passenger can board and disembark as many times as he wishes, at any of the 15 stops on the route. The buses are clean, the tour very informative and the view … magical!

Zoological Park Tour

The Zoological Park lies on 19 hectares of land and features thirty species of reptiles, 238 species of birds and 46 species of Mammals. Monkeys, tigers, horses and farm animals from the Greek fauna live together with animals from the African Savannah. There are interactive programs especially for kids that aim at raising awareness on the significance of the preservation of the natural habitat.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

It is one of the most important sanctuaries in ancient Athens, whose fate coincided with the state changes that took place in the city over the centuries. In a large, rectangular walled area stand 15 huge Corinthian columns, which once surrounded the magnificent Temple of Olympian Zeus (“Olympion”). The construction of the great temple began by Peisistratos in 515 BC.

Planetarium

The new Digital Planetarium of the Eugene Foundation is the largest and best-equipped digital planetarium in the world. The new Eugenides Planetarium offers the visitor the chance to make a unique virtual trip to the stars. Among the most spectacular projective systems are three three-dimensional virtual reality systems covering the entire screen.

Flisvos Marina

Located only 6 km from the center of Athens Flisvos Marina provides easy access to many cultural and entertainment attractions available in the rejuvenated Olympic city. The newly constructed Athens ring road and the extensive and modern public transportation system allow easy and convenient access to all historical sites. Flisvos Marina provides a diversity of recreation and relaxation opportunities.

Piraeus Municipal Theatre

The Municipal Theater of Piraeus is a neoclassical building built by the architect Ioannis Lazarimos and was opened on April 9, 1895. Its main stage is in baroque style, while the square of the theater could accommodate up to 1,300 spectators. Recently renewed, theatre is ready to move to a new era with the most sophisticated technological, lighting and sound instruments.

Vouliagmeni Lake

Lake Vouliagmeni is a lagoon located 16 kilometers northwest of Loutraki, very close to the archaeological site of Heraion and the settlement of Perachora. It has a sandy beach as opposed to the beach of Loutraki. According to research, the lake’s water heals rheumatic, gynecological diseases, rheumatism and sports injuries. Lake Vouliagmeni has the largest underground tunnel in the world.

The National Library

The National Library of Greece is located in the center of Athens. The building housed is designed by the Danish architect Theophilos Hansen -brother of Cristian Hansen as part of the famous Athenian Trilogy of neoclassical buildings, including the Academy of Athens and the first building of the University of Athens. The library was founded by Ioannis Kapodistrias.

National Garden

The National Garden has a total area of 154 acres and its formation began 175 years ago, in 1939 with the planting of 15,000 ornamental plants.  In the National Garden, there is a large number of rare plants and trees that can not be found anywhere else in Greece. It is opened 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset, and entrance is, of course, free of charge.

Tour to Cape Sounion

Driving along the wonderful coastal road that connects downtown with the splendid southern suburbs of Athens, you can see the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni and the small picturesque settlements and seaside resorts of Palea Fokea, Lagonissi, and Saronida. The Temple of Poseidon is one of the major tourist attractions in this historical city.

Climb Mount Lycabettus

For a different view of Athens, head to the top of Mount Lycabettus. This limestone hill is the highest point in the city and offers stunning views of the city below. There is a funicular railway that takes visitors to the top, or you can get your workout in and climb the hill on foot. The climb itself is an adventure, as you’ll pass through beautiful forests and take in the natural beauty of the hill. 

See the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony that takes place every Sunday at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square. The Changing of the Guard ceremony in Athens involves a highly choreographed sequence of events that lasts approximately one hour. The ceremony is a popular tourist attraction and a great way to experience a little bit of Greek culture.

Athens Riviera

The Athens Riviera is a stretch of coastline that spans from the southern suburbs of Athens to Cape Sounio. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, landscapes, and historic sites in Greece. The Athens Riviera boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas to secluded coves accessible only by boat, there is something for everyone.

Technopolis

Located in the heart of Athens, Technopolis is an industrial museum and an important cultural center that showcases the history of Athens’ industrial revolution. The museum, which is set in a former gasworks factory, spans over 30,000 square meters and comprises numerous exhibition halls, performance venues, and cultural spaces.

Pnyx Hill is a hilltop location that played an essential role in the development of democracy in ancient Greece. In the 5th century BC, the Athenians gathered at Pnyx Hill to hold their assemblies, where they would debate and vote on important issues. This unique location was chosen because it could accommodate a large number of people and provided excellent acoustics for public speeches.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center is a cultural and educational complex that has become a top destination for tourists. The center is a hub for art, music, and education, offering a range of activities and events that cater to all ages and interests. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the center boasts a modern and innovative design that seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings. 

Kaisariani Monastery

Built in the 11th century, the Kaisariani Monastery has a long history and a unique architecture that impresses visitors. The monastery was originally built as a Christian orthodox monastery dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Over the centuries, it has been used as a refuge for many people, including monks, nuns, and civilians. The Gazi Flea Market is a must-visit, with its wide range of vintage clothing, antiques, and handmade crafts.

Gazi is a neighborhood full of life, culture, and history, with something to offer to everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local culture and history, or simply want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, Gazi has it all. The Gazi Flea Market is a must-visit, with its wide range of vintage clothing, antiques, and handmade crafts.

Kerameikos Cemetery

This cemetery was used for burials from the Early Bronze Age to the Roman period. The Kerameikos Cemetery is a fascinating archeological site that offers a unique glimpse into ancient Greek culture and history. Its historical significance and impressive structures make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

Anafiotika Athens

Anafiotika was established in the mid-19th century by settlers from the island of Anafi, hence the name. These settlers were primarily skilled craftsmen who came to Athens to help with the construction of King Otto’s palace. They built their houses on the slopes of the Acropolis, using the leftover marble and stones from the palace’s construction.

Philopappos Hill

Filopappos Hill is a hill located in the city of Athens, Greece. It is situated southwest of the Acropolis and is part of the larger Hills of the Muses, which also includes the Pnyx and the Hill of the Nymphs. The hill is named after the Roman consul Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, who built a monument on the hill in 114 AD.

Lycabettus Theatre

Lycabettus Theatre is an open-air amphitheater located on the hill of Lycabettus in Athens, Greece. It was built in the 1960s and has a seating capacity of approximately 4,000 people. The theater is known for hosting a variety of performances, including music concerts, theatrical productions, and dance performances.

Byzantine and Christian Museum

The Byzantine and Christian Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Byzantine Empire, one of the most influential empires in human history. With a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning over a thousand years, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the complex and fascinating world of Byzantine art and culture.

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Speaking of dinner, Athens is an excellent destination for gourmands, as well as classicists. You can take a walking tour of Athens which includes the chance to sample Greek specialties and delicacies. There are also Greek wine tasting tours on offer, which are perfect if you’re interested in finding out more about the local vineyards.

If you are interested in sightseeing in Athens but are interested in the modern as well as the ancient city, then there are walking tours available around Plaka and Monastiraki, as well as contemporary Greek highlights like the Parliament building and the main shopping areas.

Athens’ museums are another of the city’s many highlights. The New Acropolis Museum and the Benaki Museum have some of the world’s best collections relating to ancient civilizations. They can get very busy at peak times, but it’s possible to buy a pass to allow you to jump the queue and maximize your time in the museum.

If you’re interested in traveling around at your own pace rather than going on a walking or coach tour, then consider buying a ticket for the hop-on-hop-off bus. Tickets include discounts on some sites, and buses stop off at all major tourist sites in Athens. There are two routes available, and this is a very good option if you want to combine sightseeing with leisurely lunches and plenty of pit stops!

There are also plenty of excursions on an offer outside the city, at sites both near and far. The clifftop monasteries of Meteora, one of the highlights of Greece, can be visited on a 2-day excursion. There are cruises to nearby Greek islands, including Hydra, Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and much more – perfect if you either want to see historical sites in locations that are further out of Athens or just want to travel to some of the most famous holiday islands in Greece.

However, if you only have a short time in Greece but still want to travel outside the city, then you should consider a trip to the Temple of Poseidon, to Corinth or to Marathon. Going on an organized coach tour is the most efficient way to get around these sites and maximize the use of your time in Athens.

Bus Tours around Athens

Athens and its suburbs are beautiful and dotted with art galleries, museums, exhibitions, parks, gardens, ruins, and natural beauty. Guided bus yours are one of the best ways to see Athens and its periphery any day of the year. Zipping through the countryside in an air-conditioned bus with an English (or whatever your language is) tour guide who explains all the sights, the history and the people who created it, one can almost feel how it felt to cruise around Greece a long time ago. Along with Monuments, landmarks and ancient churches, there are so many attractions that compete for our attention, we could spend days touring Greece.

Getting around the city

Athens is a sophisticated and cosmopolitan European city; revamped hotels, stylish restaurants, and shops, elegant and cozy cafés pop up everywhere in Athens, a city that never sleeps.

Athens is probably one of the most contradictory cities you will see. The cradle of European civilization, one of the most historical capital cities of the world has been experiencing the most significant changes in the historic center, re-establishing, these last few years, the cultural and social life as it once was.

Featuring one of the most stunning pedestrian promenades in Europe and high traffic in the downtown, Athens can be the source of frustrations if you are a resident but is still irresistibly seductive.

The oldest city in Europe, the richest in history and culture is full of trend-conscious residents and visitors; hedonism and enjoyment are the main themes here, as Athenians value their night outs and their festivals as nothing else.

Athens is one of the safest and liveliest cities in Europe, a colorful mix of history, antiquity, and grace, with a lusty urban soul.

Athens is a modern Western city; no dress code or any other restrictions are implemented. Featuring a rich nightlife, with hundreds of bars, beachside restaurants, and clubs all over, and a well-appointed GLBT scene, Athens can meet all needs and requirements, whether you are up to wild night out, or a relaxing and cozy dining out the evening.

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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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13 Things To Do In Athens: Complete Guide To Greece's Ancient City

F or a deep exploration of Greek history and culture, a visit to the historic city of Athens is in order. One of the oldest cities in the world, Greece's capital city dates back to around 3000 BC when its first settlement was established on the legendary rock of the Acropolis.

Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, Athens is undoubtedly the historical hub of Greece. Widely considered the birthplace of democracy for its voting and election system, ancient Athenians progressed in far more than just politics. The city’s intellectual and artistic prowess gave rise to phenomenal art, literature, and classical architecture, as well as many influential philosophers like Plato and Socrates. There are so many things to do here in Athens, Greece.

Today, the bustling European city is a tourist haven. Athens offers myriad fun things to do , from exploring its famous archeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

UPDATE: 2023/06/09 16:23 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do In Athens, Greece!

This post has been refreshed with new spots to see in Athens, as well as tips for a successful Greek vacation. Whether someone wants to experience an ancient monument, climb a mountain, or simply stroll through the city's garden, Athens offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Have fun, and bring some sunscreen!

Things To Do

From its historical ruins to its incredible museums, Athens is brimming with must-see adventures. Here are some of the top attractions for new visitors .

Discover The Ancient Parthenon

One of the first monuments to witness while in Athens is the Parthenon. Here, tourists can explore a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC.

Of course, coming to the Parthenon is quintessential Greece, as its rich history and stunning structure bring people from around the globe.

There are also decorative sculptures here, often considered some of the high points of classical Greek art. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, water, and even a snack: it gets hot, and the hike up to Parthenon can be gruesome.

• The Parthenon in Athens is considered one of the top destinations.
• Bring comfortable footwear, water, and snacks, and be respectful of the ancient structure.

Experience Nature At Athens National Garden

One of the most beautiful things to do in Athens, Greece, is walk through the National Garden. Here, visitors to the city can 7,000 trees, 40,000 bushes, and other plants, making up 519 species and varieties.

The Athens National Garden is a public park of 15.5 hectares in the center of the Greek capital, located directly behind the Greek Parliament.

• Athens National Garden is free to visitors.

Climb Mount Lycabettus

For people wanting some exercise while in Athens, heading to Mount Lycabettus might be worth it. Here, visitors to the ancient city can experience the highest point in Central Athens, at a staggering 277 meters above the sea.

Mount Lycabettus has a rich history, according to myths : the mountain was formed when the goddess Athena was carrying a huge stone from the Pallene peninsula to the spot of the Acropolis, but she dropped it when the raven told her bad news.

• At 277 meters (909 feet), it's a bit less than twice as high as the Acropolis.

That was the birth of Mount Lycabettus and is why it is located smack-dab in the middle of town. It's also double the height of the Acropolis, so the elevation is steep, and the photo-ops are incredible.

Related: Mykonos In 3 Days: How To Plan A Weekend In Greece's Hottest Summer Spot

Tour The Acropolis

One of the most iconic Greek ruins is that of the ancient city of the Acropolis. Originally a Mycenaean palace, the citadel features many striking sites, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Situated on the slopes of the Acropolis are two ancient theaters: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theater of Dionysus. Head northwest of the Acropolis to find the Areopagus, or the Rock of Ares, which served as the meeting place for the early aristocratic council. Be sure not to miss a thing by booking a guided tour of the famed ruins.

• Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm (April to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to March)
• Cost: From €49 (about $53 USD) for a guided tour with skip-the-line-entry; check the website for complete tour options and availability

Stroll Through Plaka

For less touristy things to do in Athens , stroll the charming streets of Plaka. Nestled under the Acropolis, it's one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and is a shining example of Athens' neoclassical architecture.

• This is a less "touristy" thing to do in Athens. Many people prefer lying low when in the city, as it allows for a more true Grecian vacation.

Walk the main streets of Kydathineon and Adrianou to explore the various souvenir, antique, and jewelry shops. Tour the colorful buildings and ancient churches, and stop at a local café for a relaxing afternoon spent immersed in Greek culture.

See The Ancient Agora Of Athens

Located to the northwest of the Acropolis, the ancient archeological site was the city's social and political hub. Founded in 1957, the Ancient Agora Museum, which features a variety of ceramics, jewelry, and other items found during excavations, and the Temple of Hephaestus are must-see tourist attractions.

• Address: Adrianoy 24, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm
• Cost: €10 (just under $11 USD) general admission

Visit The Panathenaic Stadium

In 1896, this cultural masterpiece was home to the first modern Olympic Games . The only marble stadium in the world, visitors have the opportunity to tour the grounds and even run on the playing field.

• Address: Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou, Athina 116 35, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm (March to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to February)

Tour The National Archaeological Museum

Explore the museum's grand collection of Greek Antiquity artifacts, from the gold Mask of Agamemnon to the incredible marble statue of Poseidon​​​​​.

• Address: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
• Hours: Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays to Mondays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (November 1 to March 31); Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays from 8 am to 8 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €12 (April 1 to October 31) €6 (November 1 to March 31)

Explore The Benaki Museum

Tourists can also take a deep dive through Greek history with a stop at this museum, which houses more than 100,000 ancient artifacts. The Benaki Museum is one of seven cultural venues that can be found throughout the city.

Other museums include the new Benaki Museum, or Pireos 138, the Museum of Islamic Art, the Ghika Gallery, and the Toy Museum.

• Address: Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm; Thursday from 10 am to midnight; Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission

Tour The Museum Of Cycladic Art

Athens has more to offer visitors than just the Acropolis . After a day spend exploring the iconic ruins, behold the mesmerizing collection of Cycladic art artifacts, from marble figurines and vases to ancient weapons.

• Address: Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm; Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission (pricing for temporary exhibitions is €6 for general admission)

Journey To The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

This ancient Greek temple stands an impressive 68 feet tall. Located southeast of the Acropolis, visitors can marvel at the iconic architecture, which was, remarkably, twice the size of the Parthenon.

• Address: Athens 105 57, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 3 pm

See The Philopappos Monument

Another must-see historical landmark is the Greek mausoleum of the Philopappos Monument. Situated atop the Mouseion Hill to the southwest of the Acropolis, the monument was built to pay homage to Athens' benefactor Julius Antiochus Philopappos.

• Address: Athens 117 41, Greece
• Hours: Open 24 hours

Visit The Acropolis Museum

Located on the south side of the Acropolis, this museum houses some of the most important findings from the famed historical site, from Parthenon sculptures to the sacred Caryatids, which held up the roof of the Erechtheion's southern porch.

• Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece
• Hours: Monday from 9 am to 5 pm; Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm; Friday from 9 am to 10 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €15 general admission during the summer; €10 general admission during the winter

The museum is open during the winter months (November 1 to March 31) Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm, Friday from 9 am to 10 pm, and weekends from 9 am to 8 pm.

Best Time To See Athens

There are many reasons to visit Greece in the spring . Namely, visitors can beat the peak season rush since the vast majority of tourist flock to the country during the summer months.

Athens is no different, and globetrotters opting to visit during the spring and the winter may also be able to take advantage of cheaper prices for accommodations.

Best Ways To Get Around Athens

Tourists looking to explore the historic city can opt to walk. The vast majority of points of interest can be traversed in less than 30 minutes on foot. There are also a variety of hop-on, hop-off buses that can take tourists from point A to point B.

Another reliable mode of transportation is Athens' subway, tram, and trolley system , which serves the city and its suburbs.

Where To Eat In Athens, Greece

Athens has plenty of eateries to offer hungry travelers.

Picky Coffee & Brunch

• Address: Χριστοκοπίδου 14 &, Ναυάρχου Αποστόλη, Athina 105 54, Greece
• Cuisine: Specialty coffee and brunch eatery with many breakfast options

Happy Blender

• Address: Ifestou 39, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Healthy, fresh smoothies and bowls
• Address: Άγγελου, Geronta 9, Athina 105 58, Greece
• Cuisine: Mediterranean café and bistro

Atitamos (Ατίταμος)

• Address: Kapodistriou 2, Athina 106 83, Greece
• Cuisine: Traditional Greek dishes
• Address: Adrianoy 9, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Greek restaurant featuring an art gallery and a rooftop bar

Aleria Restaurant

• Address: Meg. Alexandrou 57, Athina 104 35, Greece
• Cuisine: Contemporary Mediterranean fare

The Clumsies

• Address: Praxitelous 30, Athina 105 61, Greece

42 Barstronomy Athens

• Address: Kolokotroni 3, Athina 105 62, Greece

Related: Discover The Best Of Greece: 10 Top-Rated Day Trips From Athens

Where To Stay In Athens, Greece

Find the perfect spot to stay, no matter the budget.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Pella Inn Hostel

• Address: 104 Ermou & 1 Karaiskaki, Athens 105 51
• Amenities: Bar/lounge and laundry facilities

Victory Inn

• Address: Trias 20, Athens
• Amenities: Bar/lounge, room service, and coffee shop

Mid-Tier Hotels

Athens Marriott Hotel

• Address: Syngrou Avenue 385, Athens 175 64
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and free parking

Grand Hyatt Athens

• Address: 115, Syngrou Avenue, Athens 117 45
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, fitness center, and bar/lounge

Upscale Hotels

King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 3 Vasileos Georgiou A' Street, Athens
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, parking, restaurant, room service, and laundry service

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A' Str., Athens 105 64
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and valet parking

Related: Visiting Athens? Here's Where To Stay In This Ancient City

Tips For Visiting Athens

There are a few things tourists need to know in order to curate the most enjoyable Athens adventure. For starters, the roads can be a tad bit hectic, so be extremely cautious when walking along or crossing busy streets.

Greek meal times are generally later than in other parts of Europe. For tourists looking for a lively restaurant ambiance, locals typically eat lunch around 2 pm, and the main meal of the day, dinner, is enjoyed at around 9 pm or later.

Last but not least, follow proper bathroom etiquette and don't flush toilet paper, which can clog the older sewage systems.

Related: Athens: How A Goddess Victory Created Greece's Popular City

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Athens, Greece

Due to the sheer size of the city and all the amazing historical sites to see, visitors should plan to spend a minimum of three days in the Greek capital. However, for the perfect 24-hour romp around Athens, there are a handful of postcard-worthy attractions that are must-sees.

But first: breakfast. Visitors can eat like the locals, opting for a traditional Greek breakfast of bread, fresh fruit, and yogurt at a nearby eatery. Afterward, exploring the great Acropolis is the first "to-do" on the itinerary, so opt for a guided tour of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum.

Spend the day seeing the iconic ruins and surrounding attractions, such as the Erechtheion, the Propylaia, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Related: Athens To Santorini: 10 Things To See Along The Way

For lunch, grab a delicious bite to eat at the Pantheon Restaurant. Then, check out the Temple of Hephaestus and the Ancient Agora of Athens nearby. A stroll through the Plaka neighborhood is in order before touring the Benaki Museum and the National Garden Botanical Museum (a two-minute walk apart).

For dinner, snag a table at Kuzina for a traditional Greek meal before heading to the rooftop bar to grab a drink and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Q: What is worth visiting in Athens?

Athens offers many fun things to do , from exploring its famous archaeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

Q: What is Athens, Greece known for?

Widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, Athens is probably most known for its iconic Acropolis .

Q: How many days do you need in Athens?

Due to all the amazing historical sites and top attractions to see for new visitors , tourists should plan to spend a minimum of three days 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.

Related Articles

Welcome to Greece

What to Do and See in Athens Greece – Top 20 Attractions

Top 20 athens greece attractions – what to see & do.

A staggering 90% of Greece’s visitors find their way to Athens. This is a testament to the city’s magnetic allure.

As custodians of history and with a penchant for the present, we’ve curated an essential guide to the top 20 Athens Greece attractions . This revered city doesn’t rest on its ancient laurels. It also pulsates with a vibrant contemporary beat.

If you’re pondering what to do and see in Athens Greece , fret not. The illustrious Acropolis casts its shadow over the metropolis. The city’s lively markets offer thrills. In Athens, endless possibility unfolds. Join us for an insider’s guide to the sights of Athens, Greece. Etch the best memories into your travels.

Discovering the Ancient Marvels of Athens

Join us on a journey through time. We will explore the wonders of ancient Greece, right here in the heart of Athens. These archaeological treasures are more than must-visit places in Athens.

They’re a bridge to the Aegean’s illustrious past. They offer an unrivaled glimpse into the world of the ancients. Join us as we unveil the secrets of Athens’ most prestigious attractions and ancient architecture .

The Acropolis : A Testament to Time

The Acropolis perches above the city. It is the quintessential symbol of Athens’ enduring legacy. As we ascend the sacred hill, we’re immediately enveloped in the awe-inspiring presence of its ancient structures.

They stand as proud sentinels of history. This site isn’t a must-see landmark in Athens; it’s a pivotal chapter in the annals of civilization.

The Parthenon: Epitome of Ancient Architecture

The Parthenon, crowning the Acropolis , embodies the zenith of Doric architecture. This architectural marvel is time-worn. It continues to astound us with its harmonious proportions and the intricacy of its sculptures.

Gazing at the Parthenon is like peering into the soul of ancient Greece. It’s a testament to the culture’s artistry and ingenuity.

The Ancient Agora: Where History Speaks

Beneath the towering Acropolis lies the Ancient Agora. It was the heartbeat of classical Athenian life. As we meander through these historic ruins, the whispers of merchants, philosophers, and citizens of yore seem to echo around us.

This was the hub of ancient Athenian democracy. Today, it remains an indispensable stop for any avid history seeker.

Unveiling the Wonders of Athenian Museums

Join us as we explore the historic heart of Greece through its most famous museums. Institutions in Athens house some of the world’s most significant historical exhibits. We’ll guide you through a selection of the best Athens museums.

They preserve the past with a remarkable blend of reverence and innovation. They also present it in the same way.

National Archaeological Museum: A Glimpse into Greek Antiquity

Let’s step into the venerable halls of the Greece Archaeological Museum. It stands as a monument to millennia of Greek culture. This iconic institution safeguards treasures spanning from prehistory to late antiquity.

It lets us witness the narrative of civilization unfold. Its vast collections include sculpted marbles. They also have the mysterious Antikythera mechanism and the exquisite Mask of Agamemnon.

Acropolis Museum: Where Myths and Artifacts Merge

The reflective glass panes of the Acropolis Museum provoke thought. It is not a repository but a storyteller. The sculptures and relics made the Acropolis the most renowned citadel of its time. They echo the legendary tales of ancient Athenians.

Witness the friezes that once adorned the Parthenon and marvel at the Caryatids in their resplendent grace.

Museum of Cycladic Art: Exploring Prehistoric Aegean Life

If you harbor a curiosity for the Agean’s distant past, the Museum of Cycladic Art is an essential stop among Athenian museums . The museum dedicates itself to studying and displaying Cycladic art.

The enigmatic, minimalistic idols continue to inspire modern artists. Each artifact offers a unique perspective on prehistoric life. From pottery to figurines, it’s a compelling visit. It’s for anyone enthralled by the roots of Aegean civilization.

What to Do and See in Athens Greece

We’re delighted to share that the city’s historic heart is among the most popular tourist spots in Athens, Greece . You can explore it. It’s an open-air museum. As we guide you through the vibrant streets of Athens, we invite you to savor each moment.

Whether you’re meandering through the Plaka district or soaking in panoramic views from a hilltop.

Things to do in Athens Greece often begin with a stroll through the Plaka district. Here, neoclassical charm and bustling cafes blend to create a delightful atmosphere. It’s perfect for sightseers and shoppers.

Don’t miss the ceremonious display at Syntagma Square. The changing of the guard offers a glimpse into Greece’s rich military traditions.

An absolute must-have experience in Athens, Greece is dining on authentic Greek cuisine at a traditional taverna. Taste the robust flavors of local dishes that have stood the test of time.

For a magical evening, find a rooftop bar that boasts an astonishing view of the Acropolis . Have a cocktail in hand as the sun dips below ancient parapets.

Athens is a haven for shoppers. Whether you’re after traditional handmade souvenirs or the latest fashion trends, the markets and boutiques will not disappoint.

Witness the true essence of Athens as you navigate through this vibrant metropolis. You’ll have encounters that are sure to enrich your travel diary with stories to tell for a lifetime.

Our journey across Athens Greece extends beyond the surface of standard travel guides. We seek to immerse you in the milieu of Athens. Every corner turned and every cobbled path followed leads to an authentic encounter.

Join us in embracing the essence of Athens, a city where history and modernity dance in a timeless rhythm.

Must-See Landmarks in the Cradle of Civilization

Athens is the city that stands at the crossroads of history and is known as the cradle of civilization. Here, every step treads upon the path of ancient tales and myths. Among the must-visit places in Athens, specific landmarks are not sights to behold.

They are the very essence of the city’s storied past. They’ve seen the highs and lows of history and remain to tell the tale. Let us introduce you to these timeless monuments that people consider must-see landmarks in Athens.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus: Remnants of Olympian Grandeur

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was once an emblem of divine might. It lies in ruins. Yet its colossal pillars still reach for the heavens in silent grandeur. As we stroll through its remnants, it’s almost as though we can feel the presence of the ancient Greek gods.

This ancient Greek landmark is a powerful reminder of the city’s long embrace of mythology and worship.

Hadrian’s Arch: The Intersection of Eras

Hadrian’s Arch is the distinguished gateway between the Roman and ancient Greek cities. It stands as a testament to Athens’ layered history. The Roman Emperor Hadrian constructed it.

It symbolizes the rich cultural infusion that occurred here. It serves as a historical threshold that is both literal and figurative.

The Tower of the Winds: The Horologion of Andronikos

The Tower of the Winds, also known as the Horologion of Andronikos, is a unique blend of functionality and magnificence. This ancient octagonal structure serves as a water clock.

It also functions as a weather vane, sundial, and compass, all in one design. It embodies the Ancient Greeks’ sophistication in engineering and astronomy. This is one of Athens’ timeless historical attractions. Here, you can see how time has shaped the city.

In these historical sites, the legacy of Athens as a seedbed for Western civilization is palpable. Each stone and column, each arch and tower carries the weight of history. They also offer us an invaluable glimpse into the ancient world.

Visiting these must-visit places in Athens isn’t about seeing them with our eyes. It’s about experiencing the echoes of history that reverberate through them.

Exploring Athens’ Natural Beauty and Outdoor Attractions

As we delve into the heart of Athens, we discover far more than the echoes of antiquity. Many people often overlook the city. Athens offers a plethora of outdoor attractions that await adoration.

It’s a haven for the natural beauty of Greece. For those who want to mix culture with nature, Athens has serene environments and breathtaking viewpoints.

Imagine walking through the whispering leaves of the National Garden. It’s an oasis in the center of the city’s hustle. The air is fresher there, and the shade offers a gentle reprieve from the Grecian sun.

This lush paradise, filled with a variety of flora, is perfect for a moment of solitude or a stroll with loved ones. But that’s a taste of the Athens Greece experiences available for nature enthusiasts.

A Trip to the Athenian Riviera

For a more vibrant scene, we often recommend a trip to the Athenian Riviera. Here, the azure waters merge with the golden sands. This creates an idyllic landscape for both relaxation and adventure.

It’s one of the many scenic spots in Athens. It demonstrates that Greece’s capital isn’t an urban maze but also a space where the natural world thrives.

There’s nothing quite like reaching the peak of one of Athens’ famed hills. As you watch the city stretch before you, it looks like a patchwork quilt. History and modernity are woven together.

For adventurers, the hills surrounding Athens have well-trodden hiking paths. They lead to some of the most exquisite panoramic views. We’ve gazed at sunsets here. They splash the sky with fiery oranges and soothing purples. It’s a view worthy of the gods.

If you’re craving more natural beauty, the Saronic Gulf islands are nearby. Hop on a ferry and enter a world where time slows down. The beauty of the Grecian seascape unfolds around you, inviting in its tranquility and charm.

National Garden: A green heart in the city center

Athenian Riviera: Seaside joy and coastal allure

Hilltop Spots: Lycabettus and Philopappos for city views

Saronic Gulf Islands: A breathtaking escape by ferry

In Athens, the marriage of cultural depth and the natural beauty of Greece is an open invitation. Discover a city that captivates on many levels.

Whether you’re exploring the recorded exploits of bygone eras or soaking in the contemporary vibrance of its streets, the call to wander amidst its outdoor attractions ensures that your Athenian tale will be rich with diverse experiences.

Cultural Experiences at Athens Theaters and Performances

When we immerse ourselves in the vibrant heart of Athens , we find a city alive with the pulse of the arts. Here, the legacy of theater, a cornerstone of ancient Greek culture, continues to enchant and educate.

Our journey through Athens’ theater landscape offers a tapestry of cultural experiences. Venues bridge the ancient world and the contemporary stage. They showcase the rich spectrum of live performances in Greece.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Live Performances with a Historical Backdrop

Nothing quite compares to the experience of witnessing a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The preserved stone theater nestles at the foot of the Acropolis . It sets the stage for a range of artistic displays during the Athens Festival.

Imagine classical music, opera, and ballet illuminated by the warm glow of Athenian moonlight. Every lover of Athens theater must see this firsthand.

Dora Stratou Theater: Traditional Greek Dances on Display

At the Dora Stratou Theater, one can watch traditional Greek dances. The vibrant movements bring the past to life. Authentic costumes swirl in a riot of color and form. Skilled dancers take to the stage, accompanied by the stirring sounds of regional music.

This lively celebration showcases Greece’s folk heritage. It gives audiences a glimpse into the soul of its people and traditions.

National Theatre of Greece: Witnessing Modern Theatrical Arts

The National Theatre of Greece stands as a beacon of contemporary performing arts. It draws those who seek present-day drama. Innovative productions push boundaries and provoke thought.

They showcase the prowess of modern Greek playwrights and performers. The theater solidifies its role as a cutting-edge center for cultural experiences in Athens. It does this by reimagining classic narratives. It also births new stories in a contentious arena.

Immerse Yourself in Local Life at Greek Food Markets

Nothing rivals the vibrancy and allure of Greek food markets. When we talk about authentic Athens, Greece culinary experiences. These bustling hubs are a testament to the city’s love affair with fresh, flavorful produce.

They also reflect rich traditions. As connoisseurs of local culture, that a stroll through these markets is not about shopping. It’s an immersive encounter with the heart of Greek gastronomy.

Varvakios Agora: The Pulse of Athenian Cuisine

Varvakios Agora stands as the cornerstone of the Greek food marketplace. It invites us to engage with the real rhythm of everyday Athenian life. Join us as we delve into rows of stalls teeming with the freshest fruits, vegetables, and meats.

You’ll also find an assortment of local cheeses. Here, vendors boast of their daily catch, filling the air with jostles and shouts. It also carries the sharp tang of olives, the earthy aroma of herbs, and the enticing sweetness of seasonal fruits. The Agora does more than provide goods; it caters to every sense and whets every appetite.

Monastiraki Flea Market: Athens’ Bazaar of Flavors and Crafts

Just a short walk from the Agora leads us to the legendary Monastiraki Flea Market. There, in Athens, Greece, culinary experiences blend with artisanal craftsmanship. Each Sunday, this marketplace transforms into a treasure trove of eclectic goods.

We find ourselves mesmerized by the array of savory Greek delicacies. We are also captivated by the delightful antiques and handmade goods. They encapsulate the artistic spirit of Athens. It’s a unique tapestry of commerce and culture.

It’s a bazaar where stories, flavors, and traditions interlace to create memories that linger far beyond our visit.

Embark on Gastronomic Journeys with Cooking Lessons in Greece

As we navigate the charming streets of Athens, the vibrant Greek food markets draw us in. These markets are the heartbeat of Athenian gastronomy. Imagine the aromas of fresh herbs. Picture the lively chatter of vendors.

See the vivid colors of local produce creating a tapestry of sensory delights. For those of us who love Greek food, cooking lessons in Greece offer a hands-on approach. They help capture the true essence of Greek cuisine.

With a pinch of salt and a dash of tradition, our Greek culinary experience reaches beyond the gustatory pleasures. It’s a foray into history and culture, guided by the practised hands of local chefs.

These culinary artisans share their expertise as well as stories and secrets. They make each dish a narrative of flavors. We’re kneading dough to achieve the perfect consistency for phyllo pastry.

We’re layering ingredients to craft the quintessential moussaka. It’s about much more than food—it’s about connection.

To embrace the full spectrum of this gastronomic voyage, we take cooking lessons. The lessons immerse us in the world of authentic Athenian gastronomy.

It’s a journey where each step, from market to plate, is an education. It’s a series of delicious lessons. They culminate in the creation of a meal that’s as delightful to the palate as it is enlightening to the mind.

What could be more rewarding than enjoying the fruits of our labor in the company of newfound friends? We’re bonded by our shared love of Greek culinary arts.

Unlocking the flavors of Greece isn’t about following a recipe. It’s about embracing a piece of culture that’s been simmering for centuries. In the kitchens of Athens, we don’t just follow directions. We engage in timeless traditions that turn cooking into an act of cultural expression.

We invite our fellow epicureans to join us in this interactive exploration.

Together, let’s learn, cook, and feast on authentic Greek cuisine. We’ll bring it back home to savor and share long after our Grecian adventure ends.

Panoramic Views and Leisure: Athens from Above

We seek to capture breathtaking panoramic views of Athens. The city’s natural elevations provide the best vantage points. Climbing these hills is more than a physical challenge. It’s a cultural journey that lifts you above Athens’s urban sprawl.

It takes you into its serene, towering realms. Sublime at any time of day, these vistas are particularly mesmerizing as dusk envelops the city in a golden hue. Let’s explore the scenic summits that offer more than a view. They provide an unforgettable Athenian experience.

Lycabettus Hill: Witnessing Athens at its Highest Point

Lycabettus Hill soars above the cityscape. It’s not the highest point in Athens. It’s also a symbol of the city’s layered history and natural grandeur. We often recommend an evening ascent. The setting sun transforms the sky into a canvas of oranges and pinks.

It casts a wondrous glow on the ancient landmarks below. Our insider tip is to enjoy a meal at the Hilltop restaurant. The gourmet flavors are as spectacular as the views. Remember to have your camera ready. Capturing the sun setting over Athens from this peak is a memory worth preserving.

The Strefi Hill Experience: Athens’ Lesser-Known Vantage Point

A hidden gem amongst Athens’ array of high points, Strefi Hill offers a quieter, more intimate perspective of the city. Though not as well-known, this hill possesses a charm all its own, due to its laid-back ambiance and local feel.

It’s one of our favorite leisure spots in Athens. We mix with residents who come here to jog, walk their dogs, or relax. The panoramic views from Strefi Hill remain a well-kept secret. It’s a tranquil escape where you’re awed by the beauty, not the bustle, of Athenian life.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Sights in Athens

When we venture away from the bustling streets and popular attractions, Athens reveals its hidden gems. Many visitors often overlook these quiet sanctuaries. These lesser-known corners of the city represent history’s secret whispers. They await discovery.

Experiencing Anafiotika: Athens’ Island Secret

In the shadow of the Acropolis lies Anafiotika. This picturesque neighborhood offers a slice of island life right in the heart of the city. Here, we find ourselves meandering through a labyrinth of narrow lanes.

White-washed houses and overhanging bougainvillea border the lanes. This reminds us of the architecture seen on the Cyclades Islands. The Anafiotika neighborhood is one of the true hidden gems in Athens. It’s cloaked in a tranquil ambiance that seems worlds away from the contemporary urban sprawl.

The Philopappos Hill: A Quiet Refuge in the City

Philopappos Hill rises above the streets of Athens. It provides a serene getaway with panoramic views and verdant trails. Among the lesser-known sights in Athens , it is a place where locals come to escape the city’s clamor.

The air has the scent of pine. Ancient structures, like the Philopappos monument, stand in silent dignity. The hill invites us to uncover its secrets. It’s here where we can bask in the tranquility and find a moment of peace within the storied landscape.

Our voyage through Athens has been nothing short of a historical odyssey. It blends the marvels of antiquity with the vibrancy of contemporary life. In sharing our insights about the best sights in Athens, we have uncovered a tapestry rich with cultural heritage.

We have also found everyday Greek exuberance. The city’s storied past is ever-present. The commanding presence of the Acropolis makes Athens a must-visit place. The narrative-rich streets and ruins add to its appeal.

Indeed, the array of Athens Greece attractions is as diverse as the city’s history. Athens has a facet tailored to your curiosity. You might seek intellectual satisfaction by exploring ancient sites.

Or you might seek joy by immersing yourself in local markets and savoring culinary delights. Our curated guidance aimed to spotlight unique things to do in Athens, Greece. It promises memorable experiences that resonate with the soul of the traveler.

We trust that our journey together has illuminated the path for your explorations. We hope it has inspired you to delve into the wonders of this immortal city. As you traverse Athens, every corner presents a living chronicle.

It’s an invitation to partake in a narrative that continues to unfold. As you adventure in the Grecian capital, may you discover, become enchanted by, and create enduring tales.

What are the top activities to do in Athens, Greece?

Athens is a hub of activity. You can visit the historic Acropolis . Enjoy the vibrant Plaka district. Explore the National Archaeological Museum. Savor local Greek cuisine at a traditional taverna. For shopping, head to Ermou Street for fashion and the Monastiraki Flea Market for unique finds.

Which must-visit places in Athens offer a glimpse into ancient Greece?

The Acropolis and the Parthenon are essential visits for a glimpse into ancient Greece. Other significant historical sites include the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Tower of the Winds.

What are the best sights to see in Athens?

Some of the best sights in Athens include the majestic Acropolis . Also, scenic Lycabettus Hill, the historic Panathenaic Stadium, and the Temple of Hephaestus are worth seeing. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Philopappos Hill. Also, make sure to see the architectural beauty of the Athens Trilogy buildings.

Where can I find the best museums in Athens?

Athens is home to several world-class museums. The National Archaeological Museum offers a vast collection of Greek antiquities. The Acropolis Museum features artifacts from the Acropolis . The Museum of Cycladic Art showcases prehistoric art from the Aegean region.

Are there outdoor attractions that highlight the natural beauty of Greece?

Yes, Athens boasts many outdoor attractions. These include the National Garden. They also have the beaches of the Athenian Riviera and the picturesque islands of the Saronic Gulf. They are accessible by ferry. Hiking enthusiasts can find trails leading up to Mount Lycabettus and the surrounding hills. The trails offer panoramic city views.

What Athens theaters and cultural performances should I not miss?

Don’t miss the chance to experience a performance at the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Attend a traditional Greek dance show at the Dora Stratou Theater. Or catch a contemporary play at the National Theatre of Greece.

Can I take part in cooking lessons in Athens, Greece?

There are many cooking schools in Athens. You can learn how to cook traditional Greek dishes and explore Athenian gastronomy at workshops.

What are some hidden gems in Athens away from the usual touristy spots?

Discover the quaint Anafiotika neighborhood, which looks like a slice of the Cycladic Islands. Enjoy the serenity of Philopappos Hill. You can also explore Metaxourgeio and Psiri. They are lesser-known but fascinating neighborhoods. They have art scenes and local eateries.

How can I experience local life at Greek food markets?

Visit the Varvakios Agora for a bustling market experience. Sample fresh produce and Greek specialties. Stroll through the Monastiraki Flea Market for a broader taste of local life. You can find food, crafts, and antiques there. Engaging with vendors will give you a real taste of Athenian culture. Tasting local delicacies will, too.

What are Athens’ must-see landmarks that illustrate its history as the cradle of civilization?

Athens’ must-see landmarks include the Acropolis and its historic structures. You should also visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Theatre of Dionysus, the Kerameikos Cemetery, and many ancient Greek and Roman ruins. All tell the story of the city’s rich and influential past.

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About Author: Konstantinos

Travel Writer & Guide Creator As Creator, a passionate travel writer at welcome-greece.gr, I specialize in creating free, comprehensive travel guides. My journey in travel writing is fueled by a love for exploring diverse cultures, yielding rich experiences and valuable insights. My commitment is to make quality travel information universally accessible, thereby building an informed global travel community. I also possess skills in photography, SEO, and social media, which help to extend the reach of my guides. I would deeply appreciate your support in sharing these guides on social media, as it significantly aids in connecting more people with essential travel knowledge. Your contribution in spreading this information can make a meaningful impact. Eager to continue my journey, I aim to expand my work and further enrich the travel community. Sincerely, Konstantinos

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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.

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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22 Top Tourist Attractions in Athens

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Athens is a sprawling city established among seven historic hills and surrounded by remarkable mountains. Inhabited for more than 3,000 years, Athens is widely known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Consisting of a large city center, an urban district and metropolitan area, Athens presents a confusing blend of historical and modern features.

The city is famous for its archaeological ruins and monuments. However, Athens is not just about ancient ruins. This bustling city is also an important center for culture, nightlife and sports. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Athens .

22. Theatre of Dionysus

Travelers who are mad about theatre won’t want to miss the Theatre of Dionysus, the oldest theatre in Greece. Many of the most famous ancient Greek comedies and tragedies debuted on the stage here. The theatre, originally a temple built in the sixth century BC, is dedicated to Dionysus, the god of merriment and wine.

Cut into a cliff on the Acropolis, the theatre could seat 17,000 people. It has been continuously remodeled over the centuries. The best views of the Theatre of Dionysus, usually credited as the birthplace of European theatre, can be seen from higher up on the Acropolis.

21. Byzantine and Christian Museum

The glories of Greek Orthodox Christianity await visitors to the Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens. The museum is chock full of more than 25,000 artifacts relating to Grecian artifacts from approximately the third to the 20th centuries.

The exhibits include artifacts from regions where Hellenism took root, and covers the Byzantium, post-Byzantium, medieval and early Christian periods. Some of its holdings are rare, including collections of pottery, manuscripts, fabrics and frescoes. It has one of the largest collections of Byzantine art in the world. The museum has a collection of marble and limestone slabs and icons.

20. Roman Agora

Centuries ago, shoppers may have rubbed shoulders with the likes of Julius Caesar and Augustus since they helped fund the Roman Agora. In contrary to the Ancient Agora which it replaced, it had a purely commercial character. The Roman Agora was built during the waning years of the first century BC when Greece was part of the Roman Empire.

The new agora featured a large open space surrounded by colonnades and columns; shops were inside these borders. The 12-meter (40-foot) Tower of Wind, just east of the Roman market, features reliefs of the eight winds with a sundial underneath each.

19. Museum of Cycladic Art

What started out in the 1960s as two people acquiring artifacts associated with Greece’s Cyclades Islands resulted in a world-class collection of Cycladic art. The Museum of Cycladic Art opened in 1986 featuring more than 3,000 artifacts and figures created between 3300 and 1100 BC on the Aegean Sea archipelago.

Some of the marble figurines are lifelike in size. The statues feature nude people in an abstract or simple style and are said to have influenced 20th century artists such as Modigliani and Brancusi. Some artifacts are in groups such a heroes and gods to better give a picture of ancient Greek civilization.

18. Philopappos Hill

The Acropolis may be the most famous hill in Athens, but Philopappos Hill isn’t far behind. It also has an ancient history. Ancient Greeks believed the nine muses lived there and eventually named the hill after a monument to Philopappos, a Roman senator who is considered a benefactor of Athens.

At 147 meters (482 feet) high, it offers great views of the Acropolis and the rest of Athens. To the south, the Aegean Sea can be seen on a clear day. Philopappos is buried in a marble tomb in 115 AD at the highest point on the hill.

17. Temple of Athena Nike

There’s something indescribably graceful about the Temple of Athena Nike that has been standing in a prominent spot on the Acropolis since 420 BC. Athena was the goddess of war and wisdom. Nike is the Greek word for victory.

It was at this temple the ancient Greeks prayed for victory in a war against Sparta. The temple was destroyed in the 17th century during a war between the Venetians and the Turks, but was rebuilt. It’s famous for a “wet drapery” (a type of sculpture in which “fabric” drapes over a nude body) of Nike adjusting her sandal.

16. Anafiotika

Ruins aren’t the only things worth visiting in Athens. In-between the ancient and the sparkling new lies Anafiotika, an old neighborhood that is worth a wander. This picturesque slice of Athens can be found below the Acropolis and just north of the historic neighborhood of Plaka.

Anafiotika was built by workers from the Cyclade island of Anafi in the 1860s on the order of King Otto I. Many of the houses were destroyed in the 1950s for archeological digs, but 45 of the original houses remain. The houses feature Cycladic style architecture, reminiscent of that found on the Greek Islands. The modest houses are still inhabited and many are decorated with colorful bougainvillea.

15. Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum, housed in the Benaki family’s former mansion, is home to an outstanding collection of art representing various stages of Greek culture. Its holdings include 120,000 works of art starting in prehistoric times and ending today. With 181,000 books, it is Greece’s largest Muslim library, though they are housed in one of the museum’s four satellite facilities.

The museum also has an extensive collection of Asian art. The museum started in 1934 when the Benakis donated 37,000 Islamic and Byzantine objects. Other donations over the years have made the Benaki Museum one of Greece’s top museums.

14. National Garden

In the heart of Athens, the National Garden provides a green oasis for sunny afternoon trips. The Royal Garden has a private garden for the Royal Palace, which is now the Parliament Building. The Public Garden was established in 1923. This is a quiet and peaceful place away from the bustling city with a gorgeous green

Statues decorate the gardens as well as flowerbeds and small ruins of antiquity. The gardens of Zappeion can also be found here, which surround the ancient congress hall that was built in the 19th century.

13. Panathenaic Stadium

Though built by the ancients, Panathenaic Stadium holds a special place in sports history. This original stadium, which dates to around 300 BC and was rebuilt in 144, has hosted several Olympics. More importantly, the stadium is where the Olympic flame starts on its journey to the nation hosting that year’s athletic contests.

In ancient times, the stadium hosted a religious festival dedicated to the goddess Athena every four years. The current structure was restored in the 19th century for the first modern version of the Olympics Games after centuries of disuse. Panathenaic Stadium seats 50,000 spectators and is the largest stadium in the world made entirely of marble. The stadium is a major attraction in Athens.

12. Monastiraki

Travelers who like to shop ‘til they drop may enjoy a visit to Monastiraki, a huge market and neighborhood in the historic district in Athens. On weekdays, there is a normal marketplace with shops selling souvenirs.

On the weekends, it transforms into a huge flea market, with vendors carting in tables and carpets from which they sell junk, antiques and everything in-between.

One of Athens’ top shopping areas, Monastiraki is a good place to buy clothing, icons and souvenirs, and people watch from a sidewalk café. Haggling over prices is expected here, but be wary about paying antique prices for a fake made in another country.

11. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was – and is – a top music venue in Athens. Built in 161 by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, the amphitheatre could seat more than 6,000 in steeply sloped tiers at the base of the Acropolis. Alas, it was destroyed by invaders a hundred years later, only to be resurrected in the 1950s.

It hosts the annual Athens Festival , an annual celebration featuring performances by international entertainers. The odeon also is a good place to take in classical Greek performances. Although a roof covered the theater in ancient times, everything takes place under the stars today.

10. New Acropolis Museum

A main stop on any Athens tour is the New Acropolis Museum, which resides near the base of the hill overlooking the city. It has the largest collection of Greek architecture and ancient sculptures including statues of the goddess Athena and “Kritios Boy.”

The museum was originally scheduled to be built in time for the 2004 Olympics, but its completion was delayed due to legal battles. The museum has five floors that showcase 4,000 artifacts. Permanent exhibitions here include the Parthenon Frieze, Athena statue, Color the Peplos Kore, Parthenon Gallery and Athena Nike.

9. Mount Lycabettus

For romantic evenings, gorgeous sunsets and an amazing panoramic view of Athens, Mount Lycabettus is an incredible adventure. As the highest point in Athens, it allows visitors to see all across the Attica basin and the Aegean Sea. Climbers can also see as the chapel of St. George from its peak.

A little cafe here will serve up a fantastic dinner for two. To start the hike, visitors go up the path that begins at the end of Aristippou Street in Kolonaki. The path continues to wind upwards around the mountain. Visitors can also take the funicular, which departs from Ploutarchou and Aristippou Street.

8. National Archaeological Museum

For visitors who love art exhibitions, there is no better place to visit in Greece than the National Archaeological Museum. Multiple collections can be found here from contemporary artists all the way back to antiquity.

The museum also has a large collection of artwork dating back to the Neolithic Age. The collections include small vases, working tools, clay vases and other small artifacts that are some of the oldest archaeological finds dating back to the 7th millennium. Over thirty rooms, sculptures from every century can be viewed including ancient Kouroi Egyptian sculptures.

7. Syntagma Square

A major point of interest for any traveler to Athens is the Syntagma Square. The most famous aspect of Syntagma is the changing of the guards by the Evzones in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Hellenic Parliament Building is located here as well as various buses, trolleys and tram stops.

A fountain, ancient statues and two large grassy areas offer the picture perfect place for photos and picnics. Most major events that occur in Greece have been celebrated at the Syntagma Square.

It’s also the site of various political functions, and it was also at this square that the Military Junta government was overthrown in 1974. Besides the Hellenic Parliament building, other interests include the historic hotels Grande Bretagne and George II.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is known as the largest temple in Greece. The massive ancient complex took nearly seven centuries to complete. Building originally began in 515 BC by order of Peisistratos, but work stopped on the temple as it was seen as oppressive as Peisistratos and his son were seen as tyrants by the Athenians.

Work resumed in 175 BC but was halted 10 years later when the Roman architect Cossutius died. Under emperor Hardian in 132 BC, the temple was finally completed and dedicated to Zeus Olympios. The temple stands today mostly as a reminder of Greek history, but only 15 of 104 huge columns remain. The columns each rise 17 meters (57 feet) into the air and once surrounded a cella where two large statues were once placed.

5. Erechtheum

The Erechtheus or Erechtheion is a temple made from Pentelic marble. It’s located on the Acropolis, and it’s one of the legendary pieces of Greek architecture. Its construction dates back to c. 421 and 405 when the earlier temple to Athena was destroyed by the Persian invasion.

The Erechtheum was once a sanctuary dedicated to Athena Polias, Erechtheus and Poseidon. Visitors can access the shrine to Athena by going through the eastern portico. The northern portico leads to the western cella.

The Porch of the Caryatids can be found through the southern portico. The six draped female figures can be found here that support the entablature, which is the Erechtheum’s most defining feature.

4. Ancient Agora

Located to the northwest of the Acropolis, the ancient Agora of Athens was once a marketplace and civic center. The people gathered here to browse all kinds of commodities.

It was also a place to meet others and talk about politics, business, current events and the nature of the universe and divine. The ancient Greek democracy can actually be traced to this ancient spot. It’s a wonderful area to look at the cultural beginnings of Athens.

Overlooking the Ancient Agora from its elevated position on the hill of Agoraios Kolonos, the Temple of Hephaistos was built in the 5th century BC. Similar in style but smaller than the Parthenon, the temple consists of 34 Doric columns that support a still partially intact roof. It is the best preserved temple in all of Greece thanks to its conversion into a church in the 7th century.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens is the Plaka District, which resides under the Acropolis and spreads out to Syntagma. This village is almost like an island within the city, and it’s the perfect way to experience authentic Greek culture.

The area is quite private and boasts truly unique scenery with several cafes, ancient trees, green leaf canopies and stone walkways. The area is well-known for its food, boutique shops and cafes. Along Kydathineon Street, visitors find the Jewish Museum, Folk-Art Museum and Saita Taverna, which serves delicious bakalairo and other grilled meats.

2. Parthenon

The Parthenon is the most famous building in Athens and all of Greece. It stands majestically at the top of the Acropolis and is considered the epitome of Doric architecture, the simplest of Greek architectural styles.

The temple was built to honor the goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron of Athens, to thank her for protecting the city during the Persian Wars. Situated on the site of a former temple to Athena, the Parthenon was considered completed in 438 BC, when Athens was at its peak. The symbol of ancient Greece, the Parthenon is decorated with sculptures that are considered outstanding examples of Greek art.

1. Acropolis

No visit to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis , the most famous hill in the Greek capital. It’s impossible not to visit this landmark since so many important Greek ruins are located here, including an old citadel for which

Though only 156 meters (511 feet) high, the Acropolis is considered the highest point in the spirit of ancient Greek culture. From the Parthenon at the summit, travelers can look down on monuments built on its sides as well as over a more modem Athens. The buildings on this hill are considered a great blending of architecture with natural surroundings.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Athens

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Reader interactions.

September 6, 2019 at 10:05 pm

I have been to Athens and Greece overall twice: 2010 & 2012. I studied Ancient Greece and Athens so I am partial to all of the things ancient. Of course, the acropolis with all the wonderful buildings on it and around it, along with the agora, is so fulfilling. But to get a true feeling of the ancient past, a visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. The Bronze Age portion is among my favorite parts that reflects much of what is described in Homer’s Iliad. However, when all is said, I truly love it all! Be sure to visit the many other great locations in Greece while your here: Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, Thermopylae, etc!

October 5, 2016 at 9:53 am

We will be taking a Mediterranean cruise in July, 2017. Will end up in Athens. Want to spend a few days here, maybe two to three. Will that be enough and what would you recommend we do with this time to experience a little taste of Athens and Greece?

May 7, 2015 at 3:31 pm

Great tips, thanks! We also highly recommend The Monastiraki Square Flea Market…

October 2, 2014 at 4:32 pm

I highly recommend Greece. Go for the best way to get a new version of how life could be….Visit Glyfada, south of Athens. ., and Astir beach, also Voulagmeni because I have lived there. Further down you will find Lavrio and Then Sounio.

May 30, 2014 at 7:11 am

I want to go to these places someday

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23 Tourist Attractions in Athens you must not miss

The beautiful capital of Greece, Athens, was the heart of Ancient Greece, the birthplace of philosophy, astronomy, democracy, mathematics, the Olympic Games and the list goes on. Athens was once one of the most powerful empires, which is evident in the landmarks, monuments, and ruins that modern Athens has inherited to this day. The city has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years and is spread across seven historic hills. We have created a list of 23 tourist attractions all visitors ought to visit when in Athens.

1. The Plaka and Anafiotika Neighborhoods

Residing under the area of Acropolis the Plaka District resembles a small island village with its colorful nobly houses, the bougainvillea trees shadowing the narrow streets and the traditional tavernas spreading their tables through the stairs reigning the scenery. The neighborhood of Plaka is home to some of the most expensive houses in Athens, as the views and the tranquility of the area can not be compared to any other in the center. The famous Greek tavern, named Anafiotika, attracts Greeks and tourists all year round, where they can degust on delicious freshly made food and house wine to the sound of live Greek music dominated by the “bouzouki”.

Recommended tour:

Athens: Acropolis and Old Town Small Group Walking Tour

2. Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the marketplace and the center of everyday life in ancient Athens. I was also where Greeks would concentrate and discuss philosophy, politics, current events or astronomy. In this spot is where the traces of the beginning of Democracy can be found. It is a beautiful area enclosed for its preservation where visitors can also visit the museum of the Ancient Agora where art crafts such as bronze, clay and glass objects, sculptures, coins dating back to the 7th century BC can be found. In the Agora there are also temples dedicated to God Hephaestus and a smaller one for Apollo Patroos. The Ancient Agora is located northwest of Acropolis.

Athens: Agora, Plaka & Monastiraki Private Tour

3. Roman Agora

In the north of the Acropolis and east from the Ancient Agora, located in the area of Monastiraki is the Roman Agora. The Roman Agora was constructed later in the 1st century BC by the Roman Emperors Julius Caesar and Augustus and the purpose was purely to be an open-air marketplace featuring shops. Along the centuries and the numerous invasions first by Venetians and later by the Ottomans in 1400, the Roman Agora was destroyed and its ruins were covered by houses, workshops, and mosques. The Fethiye Mosque built by the Ottomans during the 17th century is still standing to this day, however, it has been repurposed for the use of exhibitions and conferences. 

Acropolis, Plaka & Ancient Agora Guided Tour without Tickets

4. Tower of the Winds

Found in the Roman Agora, located between the districts of Monastiraki and Plaka, the wind tower ruins are part of the first meteorological station ever to exist. Made from Pentelic marble, the wind tower was once a clock tower, from where ancient Greeks could tell the time of the day. It was built in the year 50 BC and the founder was the astronomer Andronicus of Cyrrhus and other functions of the tower apart from telling the hour, included forecasting the weather.

Athens Private Acropolis and Other Ancient Sites Tour

5. Acropolis

Acropolis is the jewel of Athens. Rising in the basin of Athens, the Acropolis monument is the most well-conserved monument still existing from the Greek ancient times. Acropolis derives from the synthetic word acro and polis, which means the edge of the city, as in the highest point of the city, the spot from where guards could oversee the whole city in Ancient Times and detect any enemies or external coups. 

The Parthenon, which is the most important landmark in Greece’s history, majestically brightens the city of Athens. The building was built in the 4th century BC  in honor of the goddess Athena, who was Athens’ city patroness. Through the years and the many foreign invasions of the country, the Parthenon deteriorated, until in 1975 the restoration project of the temple of Athena Nike was initiated to recreate the perfect replica, consisting of new parts and the ruins left behind.

Recommended tours:

Acropolis: Guided Walking Tour with Entrance Ticket

Athens: Hidden Historical Gems Private Walking Tour

6. The New Acropolis Museum

The New Acropolis museums opened its door to the public in the year 2009, depicting a total of 3.000 artifacts found in Acropolis and the areas surrounding. The first Acropolis museum was built in 1874, however, when new excavations in the city uncovered new artifacts the urgent need for more and modern space was responded by the creation of the new museum, which has a total area of 25,000 square meters, which is approximately 15 times the size of the old one.

The Museum has been built on top of parts of ruins of Roman and early Byzantine Athens. The significant structure of the museum has been designed precisely to be accessible to people with special needs. The glass surrounding the upper floor levels allows the visitors to admire the Acropolis from a distance, while they can also enjoy delicious meals at the museum’s restaurant on the rooftop terrace. 

Athens: Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Athens: 3-Hour Private Acropolis Museum By Night Tour

Athens: Private 4-Hour Tour with Acropolis and Old Town

7. Temple of Olympian Zeus

The temple dedicated to the head of the Olympian God Zeus, also known as the Columns of the Olympian Zeus, is the largest one in Greece. The construction of the temple began during the 6th century, under the tyrant Pisistratus, who envisioned building the largest and greatest temple, but was not completed for almost 6 centuries, when Roman Emperor Hadrian decided to conclude the project. Once the temple was held by 104 columns of 17metres each,  however, today only 15 are still standing. 

Zeus Temple, Acropolis & Museum Private Tour without Tickets

8. Hadrian’s Arch 

History has that the Arch was constructed to honor the arrival of Roman Emperor Hadrian in Athens and his contributions to the town, as was the conclusion of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, located behind the Arch.

 The monument is constructed by marble derived from the Mountain Penteli, located 18km away, as is its neighboring temple. There are two interesting inscriptions carved on the bottom of the arch one on the northwest and the other on the northeast side. 

The first writes: ΑΙΔ’ ΕΙΣΙΝ ΑΘΗΝΑΙ ΘΗΣΕΩΣ Η ΠΡΙΝ ΠΟΛΙΣ – This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus. 

The second: ΑΙΔ’ ΕΙΣ’ ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟΥ ΚΟΥΧΙ ΘΗΣΕΩΣ ΠΟΛΙΣ (this is the city of Hadrian, and not of Theseus).

Athens: Mythology, Gods and Legends Small-Group Walking Tour

9. Museum of Cycladic Art 

The museum hosts a world-class collection of Cycladic Art featuring more than 3,000 artifacts made of marble stone, clay, bronze, silver, gold, glass, and faience, which date back to 3300 to 1100 BC, found in the many then inhabited islands of the Aegeon Pelagos. The pieces of art are grouped depending on the utility of the object, if it was a toy or a culinary object, the dating or the location found, objects tributed to Gods or Heroes, in order to give a better picture of ancient Greek Civilization to the visitors. 

The museum is open every day except Tuesdays from 10:00 am to 17:00 pm and a full-priced admission ticket is 7 EUR.

10. Monastiraki and Flea Market

The district of Monastiraki is located under the Roman Agora and is the modern marketplace where hundreds of souvenir but also commercial shops can be found today. During the weekend the area becomes a huge flea market famous for the antique pieces sold at generous prices. The area is rich in traditional restaurants and souvlaki shops attracting many tourists. It is also known for the rooftop bars and cafeterias from where visitors can admire the beautiful city and Acropolis views.

11. Changing of the Guards at Syntagma Square

The most central point of Athens city is the Syntagma Square, where the Hellenic Parliament building is located. A very famous attraction/event for tourists visiting Athens is the symbolic changing of the Guards in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guards known as Evzones who wear traditional costumes which comprises of pleated skirts, leg tassels and “tsaruxia”, the traditional Greek shoes with pom-poms on the top, are in position 24/7 all year round.

12. The National Archeological Museum

The National Archeological Museums is Greece’s greatest and largest museum. With over 20,000 exhibits, the museum’s intention is to depict a panorama of Greek Civilization from prehistoric times to Late Antiquity. The museum houses some of the most well-preserved, rarest, and famous statues from Ancient times, like the Antikythera mechanism, which is said to be the firsts traces of a computer, the Bronze Statuette of Athletic Spartan Girl and the Gold Nestor’s Cup, which is described in the epos of Iliad. The museum also houses a 118years old library of 20,000 volumes including archeological rare ancient art, science, and philosophy books. The neo-classical building, built in the 19th century, also houses modern conservational laboratories, a photographic and chemistry laboratory, exhibition spaces, and a lecture hall where archeological lectures take place.

Acropolis and National Museum Private Athens Tour

13. Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus is the highest point in Athens, situated at over 300 meters above sea level. The 360° view of Athens city from the hill is simply breathtaking. The most beautiful images fill the eyes of every visitor, facing the Acropolis to Piraeus and the Athenian Riviera . The Lycabettus Mount is a very popular destination for sunset and sunrise lovers, as one can expect both the setting and the rising of the sun from that point is fascinating. One of the best restaurants in town is located on the top of the hill, named Orizondes- a modern Mediterranean cuisine restaurant with distinctive service, high-quality dishes made with the finest ingredients and of course unique views, attract a lot of visitors. To climb the hill you hike from Syntagma Square, which takes an hour and a half or you could hop on an underground cable car that crosses the hill and takes you right to the top! Also check out our post on  Top 5 Spots: The Best View of Athens

Athens: 1-Hour Mount Lycabettus Tuk-Tuk Ride

14. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Lying just at the foothill of the Acropolis is the marvelous ancient open-air theater – the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Built between 22 BC – 15 BC by the Greek politician and philosopher Herodes Atticus in memory of his late Roman wife Regilla.  In the 1950s the audience stands and the stage were restored to accommodate the Athens Festival which runs every year from May to October. Famous and acclaimed Greek, as well as international artists, have performed in the theater like Maria Callas, Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti.

15. National Garden and Zappeion

Located in the heart of Athens, next to Syntagma Square the green abyss of the National Garden is ideal for a walk during a sunny day. Besides the beautiful trees and flowerbeds which naturally decorate the park, statues and ancient ruins and monuments also give a majestic touch to the scenery. The building of Zappeion and its garden can also be found on the premises of the National Garden. The Zappeion today is used to host conferences and ceremonies, but was once a building where important historical events took place. Is in this building where Greece was signed in to be part of the European Community in 1979.  

16. Philopappos Hill

Southeast from the Acropolis area, another famous hill surrounded by rich greenery stands out. That is the Philopappos Hill, named after the monument located there dedicated to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a Roman prince who ruled the ancient Greco-Iranian kingdom Commagene, who had also been buried there. The hill, 150 meters high above sea level offers beautiful views of the Acropolis, Athens and the Aegean Sea.

17. The Prison of Socrates

Beneath the Hill of Philopappos, on the eastern side, two caves carved into the rock hill are said to be former prisons where the greatest Greek philosopher Socrates was locked up around the year 399 BC. Socrates was accused for brainwashing the young generation against democracy and the city-state order. He was also blamed for political corruption and for doubting the pantheon, the existence of the Olympian Gods. He was sentenced to death and had to carry on his own execution by drinking a poisonous beverage of hemlock. In these old prisons, Greeks hid pieces of art from the Acropolis and the National Archeological Museum during the occupation of the Nazis during WW2.

18. Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is located in the family mansion of Emannouil Benakis, a man who is considered a national benefactor to Greece. The museum houses 120,000 Greek pieces of works of art from prehistoric to modern times, representing the various stages of greek culture. The venue is home to an extensive collection of Middle-Eastern, Islamic and Asian art, it hosts periodic exhibitions and maintains a state-of-the-art restoration and conservation workshop. The larger contribution to the museum was made by the Benakis family themselves in 1934 when they donated 37,000 Islamic and Byzantine objects to be displayed at the properties of the museum.

Athens: Private Guided Tour of the Cycladic & Benaki Museums

EMST is the National Museum of Contemporary Arts in Athens. The art collected and displayed at the museum dates back to the postwar period up until the present and features 172 artworks, created by 78 Greek and International artists. Awarded contemporary artists like Costas Varotsos, Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, Pedro Cabrita Reis, Kim Sooja among others are displayed in the permanent exhibition of EMST. All these artists focus on the same following topics: Memories, Political narratives, Limits and passages and Eterotopias, Mythology of the familiar and New Perspectives. An artwork itself is the building which hosts permanently the EMST collection since 2014. Located in Syngrou Avenue, the building is a former FIX Brewery built in 1961 and then abandoned in 1982. The high ceilings, the glass windows scattered around the walls of the establishment, the spacious rooms, all benefit the exhibition of the artworks, which permits each one to have their own place and “privacy”.

20. Byzantine and Christian Museum

One of the largest and most significant museums of Byzantine Art in the world is located in Athens, the Byzantine and Christian Museum. The collection of artcraft sums up to approximately 30,000 pieces and includes works of art such as pottery,  icons, ceramics, ecclesiastical textiles, statues, sculptures, paintings and jewelry dating back from the 3rd century AD to the Late Middle Ages  (20th century). This is a great museum to admire the glories of the Greek Orthodox Christianity.

21. Areopagus

The giant rock located on the northwest side of Acropolis, just across the entrance of the monument, is the Areopagus or Hill of Ares. The site in ancient Greek times was used as a governmental institution where the oldest hence wiser tried cases of homicide, religious matters, robbing, and even cases concerning arson of olive trees! This constitution existed way before Democracy was born in Athens. Today, on this hill visitors can climb free of charge and admire the most beautiful 360 degrees views from Athens. On the Southwest Acropolis, on the Southeast the Aegean Sea, on the West the Philopappos Hill, looking down the ancient Agora and anywhere else one look they can gaze on the beautiful city of Athens and the rich greenery that surrounds the site.

22. Kallimarmaro Stadium or Panathenaic Stadium 

Built during the era of Herodes Atticus, roughly around 335 BC, this stadium is of great importance in the history of sports, as it has hosted several Olympic Games for centuries. Built entirely from marble, the stadium accommodates up to 50,000 seating spectators and is one of the oldest stadiums still operating in modern days. Of course, the stadium visitors admire today is a replica of the original Kallimarmaro Stadium, which was rebuilt to host the 1896 Olympic Games, the first international one held in modern history. Since then the venue has hosted one more time the Olympics in 2014, the 1997 World Championship in Athletics, the Special Olympics in 2011, and famous artists’ concerts such as the Scorpions & the R.E.M.

23. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a multifunctional and environmentally sustainable complex in Kallithea, the region of Athens. The whole Center, which consists of the National Library of Greece, the Greek National Opera, and the 210,000 m² Stavros Niarchos Park, was a donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation to the Greek state and for all Greeks delivered in 2017. The SNF committed to fund all the costs of the Center which summed up to €630 million, including a €20 million grant to help maintain and sustain the center for the first four years of its operation. The purpose of the Center was to provide a space where everyone, regardless of disabilities, could have free access to education, recreation, arts, music, culture, sports and nature. 

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Things to do in Athens: attractions & sights

Top 20 what to do in athens greece: sightseeing & tourist attractions.

Athens sights Top 20, an overview of the tourist attractions, activities, sightseeing, tourism, famous landmarks and best things to in Athens Greece. What are the top places to visit in Athens?

Top 20 Things to do in Athens - Attractions & Landmarks

Athens is a great city with a rich history. So there is a lot to see and visit. You may already be familiar with the most famous sights such as the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum , but there is much more to experience in Athens Greece. In this list you will therefore find the top 20 Athens sightseeing . These are both the well-known tourist attractions and places that you really have to see and the hidden gems. The list is full of fun day trips, neighborhoods, landmarks, sights and attractions . What are the things to do in Athens Greece?

Popular things to do in Athens Greece

Need more inspiration for things to do in the capital of Greece ? What to do in Athens Greece? In addition to the above sights and places to visit in Athens , here are some popular tours and activities in Athens Greece:

Where are the attractions in Athens?

FAQ Athens sightseeing and landmarks

The main attraction of Athens is the Acropolis, the central hill that houses the Parthenon temple. Furthermore, in the city are several archaeological excavations such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora. The districts of Pláka, Anafiótika and Monastiráki are popular (tourist) districts in the center and museum lovers will find what they are looking for in the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. In this article you can read all about the Top 20 Athens attractions .

No, without tickets you can only see the Acropolis hill from a distance. To visit the archaeological area on top of the Acropolis, you must purchase a ticket that allows you to visit the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, among other things. Learn more about Acropolis tickets .

The most famous museum is the Acropolis Museum at the foot of the hill of the same name. Other popular museums include the National Archaeological Museum of Athens Greece, the Benaki Museum and the Byzantine Christian Museum. In this article you can read all about the Museums in Athens .

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Where to experience lgbt+ culture in athens, a gallery walk in thissio and petralona, 6 unusual sights in athens worth a detour, from artefacts to art: 6 fine museum shops in athens, 10 modern buildings in athens you shouldn’t miss, listen to our new podcast series – athens unpacked, neighbourhoods.

Each neighbourhood in Athens has its own unique attractions and character. Explore the cafes you can’t miss in Exarchia, the vibrant nightlife in Gazi and the coolest shopping in Koukaki. Discover your new favourite Athenian neighbourhood with our insider guides.

Monastiraki

Historic centre, neos kosmos, sepolia / kolonos.

The most famous Athenian neighbourhood of Plaka is definitely a top attraction for visitors. Its picturesque streets, historic landmarks and lively shops make it a must-see. Just be prepared for the crowds.

What a difference a decade makes. The arrival of the landmark Acropolis Museum and the pedestrian walkway linking the city’s ancient monuments has seen this historic neighbourhood emerge as one of Athens’ most fashionable postcodes.

Layers of history intersect at the city’s hub of commerce and craftsmanship.

The heart of modern Greece beats in the historic centre of Athens — but contrary to what you’d think, it has little to do with ancient ruins.

The Athenian intelligentsia have long settled in this central neighbourhood of leafy squares and lively cafes. Now the hipsters are moving in too.

Rebels with, and quite often without, a cause have earned Exarchia a reputation as the turf of anarchists and radicals.

Gritty, dense and lined with auto repair shops, Neos Kosmos was a silent blue collar neighbourhood you’d never go to unless you lived there. But when art came to town, a transformation began, and today this up-and-coming neighbourhood is coming alive.

Head off the beaten track to Kolonos and Sepolia, two low-key residential areas that have yet to catch up with the fast-paced tempo of downtown Athens.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece

Written by Michael Law and Jane Foster Updated Sep 29, 2023

Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, along with some 6,000 islands, Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological sites, cliffs tumbling into sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe's prime places to visit for tourists .

Besides Athens, some of the top things to see on the mainland include Ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry or a flight to the islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Greece.

1. Acropolis, Athens

2. acropolis museum, athens, 3. santorini, 6. the towns and beaches of crete, 8. metéora monasteries, 9. rhodes town, 10. zákynthos, 11. samaria gorge, 12. nafplio, 13. thessaloniki, 14. corinth canal, 15. mount olympus, 16. palace of knossos, 17. mycenae, 21. víkos gorge.

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon , originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by ornate pediments and a frieze.

Although the Parthenon steals the show, other highlights on the Acropolis hilltop are also spectacular. The ornate Temple of Athena Nike, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Propylaea are not to be missed. Tear yourself away from the historic sights and wander over to the edge, panoramic views of the seven historical hills of Athens and the city are laid out below you.

Skirting the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city's other major ancient attractions — the Ancient Agora , the Roman Forum , Kerameikos , and the Temple of Olympian Zeus — is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade .

Author's Tips: For a fantastic nighttime view of the Acropolis, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurant patios on the pedestrian-only Apostolou Pavlou . Plan on getting to the Acropolis early to avoid ticket lineups, bus tours, crowds, and the heat if you are visiting in summer.

• Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

The Acropolis Museum is one of Athens' most-visited tourist attractions. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is an ultra-modern glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis.

Top things to see here include the 6th-century-BC Moschophoros (statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), the Caryatids (sculptures of female figures that held up the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon marbles . From the museum's cafe-restaurant terrace, you can enjoy amazing views of the Acropolis itself.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Stunning Santorini is the most dramatic of all the Greek isles. It is best known for the west coast cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia , which appear to hang over a deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons.

Things to do in Santorini include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic-sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri , an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini

Many people consider Greece's most glamorous island destination to be Mykonos. After-dark activities center on Mykonos Town, noted for its chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants, and live music venues. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast (served both by bus and taxi-boat from Mykonos Town).

The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle.

It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous temples, a theater, and a stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD. Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum , displaying an impressive collection of finds from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Delphi is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. It can easily be done as an overnight trip from the city, or even a day trip if you don't mind a long day.

• Read More: Visiting Delphi from Athens: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The massive island of Crete is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Blessed with some of the best beaches in Greece , the island draws visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular beaches on Crete range from small arcs of sand backed by restaurants and promenades to wide-open natural stretches lapped by incredibly clear waters and endless views across the sea.

But Crete is not all about beaches. It has its fair share of notable archeological sites, including the impressive Palace of Knossos, located near the pleasant city of Heraklion . The historical city of Chania and the laid-back town of Agios Nikolaos have wonderful old waterfront areas perfect for spending long afternoons on a café terrace getting lost in the views.

Get away from the bigger communities, and head to smaller towns like Plakias or Matala on Crete's south coast to find more remote beaches and beautiful mountainous backdrops.

If archeological sites, beaches, and historical towns weren't enough, the island has one of the most impressive hikes in the world : the Samaria Gorge.

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by old-fashioned cafes.

Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with rugged limestone rocks tumbling into the sea in its north and velvety green hills in its south. The most popular beach area is Paleokastritsa , on the west coast, about 25 kilometers from Corfu Town. Here, you'll find a collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Corfu Island

One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. You need to climb up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you'll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least one day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka . Consider staying here, as it's a pleasant and relaxed place to visit, with small hotels and family-run restaurants serving traditional fare.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Metéora

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Its capital, UNESCO-listed Rhodes Town, is one of Greece's top tourist destinations. It is enclosed by an impressive fortification system, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century.

The car-free cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the pretty hillside coastal town of Lindos, and Marmaris on the Turkish coast, which can be visited by excursion boat. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhodes Town

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos (Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, located just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea.

Two of the biggest boasts on this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches — Shipwreck Beach is the most famous — and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves , off the island's northern tip. Inside, the sparkling water reflects the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

• Read More: Top Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zakynthos

On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers in length and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it runs from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains down to Agia Roumeli , on the Libyan Sea.

Depending on your level of fitness, it will take five to seven hours to walk. It is steep in parts and rocky, so you should wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. The gorge lies within the Samaria National Park , and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Through summer, organized tours depart from Chania and Réthymnon .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Often cited as Greece's most beautiful city, Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for wealthy Athenians. Built on a small peninsular on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828 before Athens took over in 1834.

Take an afternoon or a day to wander through the old town, this car-free area is filled with Neoclassical mansions and proud churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress . Nearby attractions include Tiryns , Epidaurus Theater , and Ancient Corinth .

Thessaloniki doesn't seem to mind not being on most people's touring list. The locals are happy to have the place and all its sights to themselves. The main sightseeing attractions are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches , but worth investigating are several Roman monuments (including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda ), the 15th-century White Tower on the seafront, and an excellent Byzantine Museum .

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Thessaloniki (Salonica) is the country's second biggest city after Athens. Founded in 316 BC due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of various cultures and religions.

One of the top day trips from Thessaloniki is to Mount Olympus , the highest mountain in Greece. Only 80 kilometers away on good roads, this impressive natural sight is well worth visiting. The most popular hiking trails depart from near the town of Prionia.

As you drive along the relatively flat highway 8 approaching the Peloponnese Peninsula, be sure to stop in at the lookout over the Corinth Canal. This canal, first dreamed about and attempted in 1 CE, was finally brought to fruition in 1883. Unfortunately for the builders, the canal was never particularly profitable or successful.

Park your car and walk out onto the bridge and give some thought as to how the original builders managed to dig down through the solid rock to carve out the canal.

Mount Olympus, famous home of the god Zeus, lies about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Towering over the surrounding countryside at an impressive 2,918 meters, this mountain is a top recreation destination in the summer.

Three hiking trails lead to its summit, although most people take the two-day, one-night Priona trail. From the top, the views are unparalleled and well worth the effort expended to get here. You do not need any special equipment to do this hike, just a good assortment of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a taste for adventure.

One of the top archeological sites here in Greece, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see when visiting Crete. The site dates from the Late Minoan time period and has been very well restored. Although the standing buildings give you a real sense of what this place once looked like, as with many archeological sites in Greece, some portions require a bit of imagination.

The site is well laid out, with walking trails that wind their way past the main buildings and plazas. Be sure to check out the colorful paintings on some of the major structures near the end of the walkway.

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside of Heraklion , one of the main gateways to Crete. Tours can be easily arranged.

The impressive citadel of Mycenae is one of the top archeological sites south of Athens and well worth a visit for those interested in Greek history. Set impressively on a hill, Mycenae dates from around 1350 BCE, the peak of the Mycenaean civilization.

One of the key sights at Mycenae is the impressive Lion Gate. Set into the side of the hill, the gate is composed of perfectly inlaid stones over a rectangular doorway. This is the site where the famous gold mask was found by the explorer Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. If the sun is getting to you, step inside the impressively domed Treasury of Atreus and enjoy some shade.

The island of Paros is sometimes overlooked by ferry travelers exploring the Cyclades, intent on visiting the more popular Santorini. However, this is a mistake. This laid-back island has everything that the busier islands offer farther south and north. The same whitewashed towns perched on the waterfront with patios full of laughing and smiling patrons are what you'll find here, but without the crowds.

Paros also has a fine selection of beaches and historical sites to explore. It's also a good spot to go if you are watching your costs; accommodation is cheaper here.

Another popular destination, Naxos is one of the largest Cycladic islands. This huge island is a fun place to explore, and with fewer tourists than places like Santorini or Mykonos. A couple of must-sees when exploring include the small towns of Filoti, Halki, and Apiranthos.

Take some time to wander through the main town, Chora of Naxos, especially the Kastro district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops selling all manner of souvenirs, along with cute restaurants with inviting patios.

If you want to hit the beach, Naxos does not disappoint. A couple to check out include Paradise Beach, Agia Anna, or Agios Prokopios. If you are into kiteboarding, the windswept Mikri Vigla is the place to go.

For a taste of quintessential Greece that's only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens , consider the delightful island of Hydra. Home to old mansions and white-washed houses adorned with bougainvillea and cobblestone streets the town has been attracting the creative set for decades.

The island is wonderfully car-free so walking is a pleasure, stroll the busy port area and be sure to check out the early 19th-century cannons along the waterfront. Should you need to get anywhere on the island, donkeys are the main mode of transport on land, and water taxis will be more than willing to take you to a secluded beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

Cat lovers will especially enjoy Hydra, it's known for its feline residents who are generally very friendly and always open for a tasty morsel of seafood.

Another one of Greece's premier natural attractions is the Víkos Gorge. Lesser known than the above profiled Samara Gorge on Crete, this incredible natural phenomenon is commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Greece. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park.

An astounding 1,000 meters deep the canyon is one of the most amazing and easily accessible natural sights in the northwest area of Greece. If you want to just see the gorge from a lookout, one of the best is located at Oxya Viewpoint , where you'll be treated to views into the deepest part of the gorge.

For the more adventurous, a well-signposted 13-kilometer hiking trail takes you down into the gorge and back up the other side. The trail starts at Monodendri and ends at Vikos. Halfway through you can go for a dip in the icy cold Voidomatis Springs to cool off. The trail is considered moderately difficult and takes most people 4.5 to 5 hours to complete.

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Athens Pass Tourist Card: Skip-the-Line Tickets for All the Must-See Attractions in Athens

• Last Updated on: Apr 12, 2024
• Read Time 13 mins
• Published: Dec 10, 2022

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Are you planning a trip for a few days or even just one day in Athens? Then you are most probably trying to find a way to fit all the popular attractions and museums into your itinerary. There’s no need to fret.

To make your life easier, we have reviewed all the different tickets, tourist cards, tours, and digital passes available for our city. And all of our research has pointed to the same conclusion.

The Athens Pass is the most complete solution for tickets to all the must-see sites of Athens and the best way to experience the city without any hassle. With the Athens Pass, you get the most useful skip-the-line tickets you’ll need, delivered to your phone long before you even get here.

Keep reading to find out what the Athens Pass includes, how it works, how much it costs, and how you can purchase it online in just a few steps.

What is the Athens Pass Tourist Card

Athens Pass is a digital tourist card that includes skip-the-line tickets to the most important monuments and attractions in Athens like the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, and many more!

There are multiple reasons why we highly recommend the Athens Pass tourist card as a must-have for your trip to Athens.

Most importantly, by booking the Athens Pass, you get digital, skip-the-line tickets sent right to your phone so you don’t have to worry about wasting time in long queues. In addition, your tickets will be valid for the whole tourist season – winter or summer (April 1 to October 31 or November 1 to March 31).

And finally, you get additional perks like a free city audio guide app and discounts for some other places of interest in Athens.

Below you’ll find a list of everything that is included in the Athens Pass tourist card.

What’s included in the Athens City Pass

• Skip the line access to the Acropolis
• Skip the line access to the Acropolis Museum
• Skip the line access to 6 Archaeological Sites
• Athens City Audio Guide App
• A 10% discount on several other attractions or other activities in Athens

As mentioned above, Athens City Pass includes skip-the-line tickets to all the sites you don’t want to miss on your visit, a skip-the-line ticket for the Acropolis Museum, and a city audio guide app with interactive digital maps. Also, you’ll get a 10% discount on several other attractions and excursions.

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll get by purchasing the Athens Pass .

Acropolis & Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

All the above are the absolutely essential archaeological sites you will surely visit on your trip to Athens if you want to get into the city’s history and culture.

And now you can climb up the sacred hill to witness the glory of the Parthenon, walk in the footsteps of ancient philosophers in the Ancient Agora, discover the ancient necropolis of Kerameikos, time-travel into Hadrian’s Library, and become a disciple of Aristotle with just a single ticket .

Acropolis Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket

The Acropolis Museum is another definite must for your visit to Athens.

Wa lk among astonishing ancient statues, discover the relics of the Temple of Athena Nike, meet the Caryatids up close, marvel at the jaw-dropping views over the Parthenon, and browse through countless antiquities without having to wait in line for a single minute.

Book your Athens Pass easily via this link

Athens City Audio Guide Smartphone App

This audio guide is ideal for those who love exploring a city at their own pace, away from noisy big tour groups. Choose a walking route, discover all the secret gems of the city and listen to local experts unfolding the history of Athens in 6 different languages. There is no need to worry about where to go next; the app will provide suggestions based on your real-time location.

A 10% Discount for Other Attractions or Activities

In addition to all of the above, when you book your Athens Pass , you’ll instantly receive your tickets and a 10% discount code that you can use for any other booking made through tiqets.com!

We know the Athens Pass has every attraction covered, but would you miss the chance for a true Olympic workout at the Panathenaic Stadium or a visit to the Museum of Cycladic Art ?

Book your Athens City Pass now

Is the Athens Pass worth it? A Price Comparison

Just in case you’re still unsure whether the Athens Pass is the right choice for you, we’ll break down the prices of every attraction it includes so that you have a clear picture of what you would pay if you decided to visit each one individually. Keep in mind that the most valuable advantage you get with the Athens Pass is that you won’t have to spend any of your precious time in Athens waiting in neverending queues or looking for ticket booths all around the city.

Traveling to Athens from April 1 to October 31

With just a quick glance, it’s obvious that the Athens Pass is way cheaper than booking tickets to the monuments separately . What’s more impressive is that the Athens Pass is the cheaper choice even if you decide not to visit all the sites it includes! Plus, you get the perk of the City Audio Guide app with interactive digital maps for 100+ other attractions in Athens.

Please note that the prices above were valid when this article was last edited. The price of the Athens Pass (or the attractions) may change, but we’ll try to always keep this price breakdown up to date!

How does the Athens Pass Tourist Card work: A Step-by-Step Guide

Booking your Athens Pass for you, your family, or your friends is very easy.

Visit the Athens Pass page on tiqets.com , select the number of tickets and the date you plan to visit and complete the payment. You’ll receive your tickets instantly via email, along with useful instructions and a personal 10% discount code !

Below you’ll find step-by-step instructions on the process.

Visit Tiqets.com and click “ Book Now ”

Choose the number of tickets and the start date of your pass.

Please reserve your tickets, time slot for the Acropolis and Archaeological Sites, and date for the Acropolis Museum and hit “Go to the next step.”

Important :

• Note that you may select different dates for your visit to the Acropolis Museum and the rest of the sites, meaning you don’t have to visit everything in a single day !
• The chosen timeslot specifically pertains to the Acropolis. The other included sites can be explored over five days.
• Additionally, it’s worth noting that entrance to the Acropolis is permitted from 15 minutes before your selected time up to 60 minutes afterward.

Fill out the form with your contact details and your email and hit “ confirm your booking .”

Important : According to the platform’s policy, the amount you’ll pay to book the Athens Pass is nonrefundable! Make sure to double-check your dates and all other information before moving forward.

Select your preferred payment method, complete the details, and hit “Proceed to Payment.” Note that there are many alternative options, such as credit cards, Google Pay, PayPal, GiroPay, iDeal, and AliPay. Depending on your choice, you will be redirected to a secure environment where the transaction will be completed.

You’re all set! You’ll receive the tickets via email in the next few seconds. Remember to take advantage of your personal 10% discount code in future bookings!

Book now: Athens City Pass

Who issues the Athens Pass?

Athens Pass is issued by tiqets.com . Tiqets is an online booking platform for museums and attractions that has been operating since 2014 and is trusted by millions of travelers all around the globe, with over 20 million tickets sold worldwide.

The platform is completely safe, and the security of your personal data and transaction details is guaranteed .

Is there any drawback to the Athens Pass?

As most of you know, we always try to be completely clear and transparent with our readers when we recommend places, hotels , restaurants, tickets, or any other kind of travel service .

We strongly believe that the Athens Pass is one of the smartest choices when it comes to buying tickets for attractions in Athens as it will allow you to visit the Acropolis , some of the top archaeological sites, and the Acropolis museum in the most effortless way.

However, if we had to point out a flaw, we’d mention that the National Archaeological Museum is missing from the list of sites (though you can use your discount to buy a ticket here ). In addition, the tickets are non-refundable, so you must be careful while booking.

Athens Combo Ticket: An alternative choice for skip-the-line tickets in Athens

Are you looking for an alternative to the Athens City Pass? We strongly recommend taking a look at the Athens Combo Ticke t.

It includes skip-the-line tickets to all the archaeological sites included in the Athens Pass, but the main difference is that the Athens Combo Ticket does not include tickets to the Acropolis Museum – making it even more affordable . Thus, it’s a great choice if you won’t have enough time to visit everything on your trip or if you’re looking for a cheaper option.

Click the link below and read our complete review of the Athens Combo Ticket.

Combined Ticket for the Acropolis & all the Archaeological Sites in Athens [Skip the Line with a Single Ticket]

Final words on the athens pass: the verdict.

After carefully reviewing the many choices for visiting Athens’s most important archaeological sites, including guided tours, activities, and tickets both online and offline, we have decided to highlight the Athens Pass in this post as one of the easiest and most affordable ways to experience the city as a traveler.

Its low cost combined with a straightforward booking process and the fact that it provides 100% digital, skip-the-line tickets have made it easily stand out among the crowd.

Last but not least, there’s another reason for you to book the Athens Pass .

As you already know, Athens by Locals relies exclusively on its readers for support. That’s why you won’t find annoying banners, ads, pop-ups, or secret-sponsored articles on our website. We are also very meticulous when recommending any travel service.

By booking an Athens Pass through our website, you can show your support without any expense – we’ll be making a small commission, but you will pay nothing extra!

Frequently Asked Questions about Athens City Pass

Finally, here are some frequently asked questions by our readers regarding the Athens City Pass.

How long is the Athens City Pass valid for?

This is one of the best features of the Athens City Pass! It’s valid for the whole tourist season. There are 2 different tourist seasons in Athens: the summer tourist season (from April 1 to October 31) and the winter tourist season (from November 1 to March 31). All you need to do is book your dates and you’ll have tickets for the whole duration of one of the two seasons.

Do I need to print out the tickets you get with the Athens Pass?

No. The Athens Pass tickets are 100% digital, meaning you can have them on your smartphone and present them at the entrance of every site.

What if I need help with my booking or I have technical problems?

There’s absolutely no need to worry. Tiqets offers 24/7 support, every day of the year via live chat on their website and also through Whatsapp. In addition, you can find a help center on their website with useful information regarding bookings, payments, and how to use your tickets.

How can I pay for the Athens Pass?

You can pay with a credit card as well as with Google Pay, PayPal, GiroPay, iDeal, and AliPay.

Are payments on Tiqets.com safe?

Yes. Every payment and transaction made on the platform is completely secure.

How do I download the Athens City Audio Guide app?

As soon as you complete the booking of the Athens Pass , you’ll receive your tickets on your phone instantly. Along with the tickets, you’ll get a QR code. Scan the QR code, and you’ll be redirected to download the app (which is available for both Android and iOS).

How do I use my 10% discount for future bookings?

You will receive a discount code along with your tickets. Choose any other ticket, tour, or activity you want to book from tiqets.com , type the code in the discount code field after you select the number of tickets and the discount will be applied automatically.

What if the Athens Pass is temporarily sold out?

Though it rarely happens, sometimes you might find that the Athens Pass is temporarily sold out, usually during the peak of the tourist season. That is why we strongly recommend booking your tickets well in advance . Still, if it happens to you, wait a couple of days or get in touch with us – we might be able to help!

Will I pay more by clicking the link I found on Athens by Locals?

Quite the contrary. While not paying anything extra, you’ll be helping us make a small commission. Our readers’ support allows us to keep our website independent and non-sponsored!

What means ”skip the line” ticket?

“Skip the line” is a convenient way to avoid waiting in the ticket office queue when purchasing a ticket. For our readers planning to visit the Acropolis, we highly recommend using the south entrance, also known as the Dionysus Theater entrance. Unlike the main entrance, this entrance is much less crowded and busy, mainly preferred by small group tours and skip-the-line tours. This route allows visitors to easily bypass the massive crowds and enjoy a smoother entry to the Acropolis.

To sum everything up, after a careful evaluation of all the available choices for tickets and tours in our city, we have concluded that the Athens Pass tourist card is the best way to ensure that you can visit all the top archaeological sites during your visit to Athens in the most effortless way.

Book yours now to get 100% digital skip-the-line tickets -that will be valid for months- instantly delivered to your phone, and start planning out your trip to Athens today .

A Quick Reminder:

Remember that Athens By Locals is here to guide you with planning the perfect trip to Athens and help you every step along the way. If you didn’t found what you’re looking for, or need any recommendations about your trip to Athens, feel free to  contact us  and we will do our best to help you. Please be as more detailed as possible regarding your subject so as to help you better.

If you like what you read please scroll down at the end of this page and subscribe to Athens By Locals so next time to receive more articles like this straight forward to your email. Join us on Facebook  for comments, photos, and other fun stuff. If you enjoy this article please share it with your friends on Facebook.

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The most famous tourist places in Greece

Cradle of History and mythology, present-day Greece attracts visitors from all over the world ready to recognize landscapes read and recreated before in the imagination, and also, to enjoy its beaches and laze around. Here in this blog, Greca Travel offers you a list of the most popular tourist places in the Greek country.

Spending just one afternoon in Athens , it is possible to visit some of the places of greatest interest: the Acropolis is the maximum attraction, along with the agora. Starting with the Acropolis would be a very good decision. There, once the propylaea have passed, the majestic entrance to the enclosure, you traveler will feel fascinated by the Parthenon. Other temples include the Erechtheum and the temple of Athena Nike. You should also take a walk through the National Archaeological Museum, which treasures numerous finds from both venues in its invaluable collection of ancient art and through Plaka and the Monastiraki market.

Santorini is the southernmost of the Greek Cyclades islands, and shaped like a crescent moon is the edge of an ancient submerged volcano that erupted around 1500 BC. Only the splendid views of the caldera would be worth it if it did not also have archaeological museums, magnificent excavations, villages with radiant white, ancient palaces and monasteries. The city Fira, capital of the island, is located, with its typical buildings, on a cliff from which it dominates the bay and you can see a magnificent panorama of the volcano, especially at sunset. A trip to Santorini is unique, and even more when you know that there has been much speculation about the possible identification of this island with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned in Egyptian papyri and with which, thousands of years ago, also dealt by Plato. But the matter is still under discussion.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the center of the Minoan civilization, the oldest in Europe. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea not far from Egypt, it has a pleasant climate, typical of a Mediterranean island. Today it is one of the best known and tourist places in Greece for having: the Palace of Knossos in its capital Heraklion, cradle of the Minoan civilization, and the oldest city in Europe; it is also known by Rethymnon, another city founded during the Minoan civilization, its beach of Elafonisi, a beautiful little island, a protected nature reserve that belongs to Crete and the captivating city of Chania.

The city of Rhodes has been inhabited for more than 2400 years. The first city was built in 408 B.C. and when the Knights of Saint john arrived in 1309, they erected their citadel on the remains of it. The medieval citadel, presided over by the towers of the Palace of the Grand Masters, forms the center of the old town. The new part is beyond the primitive walls. These have 11 gates, of which the one in Koskinou, which faces the Bourg neighborhood, offers the best views of the city's defenses. Dressed in sandy beaches, packed with good for excursions, and with a lively nightlife, this island attracts thousands of tourists a year.

Mykonos , one of the stars of the Greek islands, has become one of the largest tourist attractions in the Hellenic country, both for its enormous beauty and the charm of its beaches, and for being the right place to take the obligatory escape to the little, desert and beautiful Delos archaeological site. In Mykonos, the whitewashed houses huddle to protect themselves from the meltemi (the strong and characteristic dry wind that some days, or for periods of time, mitigates the hot Greek summer) and backpackers rub shoulders with millionaires in their labyrinth streets. The degree of refinement of the island is remarkable, the beaches are excellent, it has the most varied shops, and a very active nightlife.

Corfu Island is one of the most attractive, fascinating and suggestive islands in Greece. Tourists from all over the world choose it as a destination for its beaches, its benevolent climate, its welcoming nature and its lively nightlife. In addition to beaches, Corfu is worth visiting for art, history and culture. In addition to touring its ancient city with its architectural value, you will have to bathe in its beautiful beaches and take a walk through the Palace of Princess Sissi, through Sidari, the channel of love in Corfu, the Vlacherna and Pontikonissi Monastery in Corfu, and the little town of Pelekas.

This city is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, near the place where the famous Greek sanctuary was located, which is currently one of the most important archaeological sites, Delphi, which belongs to the region of Sterea Elada and the province of Fokida, was considered a sacred place since ancient times and various divinities succeeded each other in the worship of its sanctuary. On a trip to Delphi, you can discover that it was a place of consultation with the gods, a sacred temple dedicated mainly to the god Apollo.

The transparent sea, huge white cliffs that enclose idyllic beaches, placid Mediterranean climate and charming villages with red roofs. For all of this, Zante , another of the Ionian islands of Greece. Also known as Zakinthos, is an island that features the typical Ionian geography, with a rugged mountainous area (to the west and north) and a flat and fertile one (to the south). The beautiful beaches of Navagio, Laganas, Argasi, Keri and Vassiliko stand out.

It corresponds to an area located north of Kalambaka (precisely, it is in the Thessalia region and the province of Trikala) whose relief is formed by gigantic greyish rocks that rise as pillars next to the Peneo river valley. At the tops of these almost inaccessible rocks, approximately 600 meters high, there are, since the 14th century, several monasteries ( See packages to Meteora on trips to Greece ).

It is an archaeological site located on the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, whose origins date back to the 8th century BC and where the original Olympic Games were held in ancient times. Its extensive ruins encompass sports training areas, a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus. In the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, the objects found in the site are exhibited, such as a statue of Hermes attributed to the sculptor Praxiteles. ( See packages to Olympia on trips to Greece ).

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Athenaeum InterContinental Athens

Located near the center of the city, athenaeum intercontinental athens is surrounded by recorded history that goes back more than 3,600 years. the hotel provides access to the parthenon, philopappos hill, and the acropolis museum..

Tour the hotel art collection, with 350 authentic works of art in public areas and rooms, providing a unique cultural experience.

Rooms combine classical design with contemporary amenities, and feature Epidaurian marble bathrooms and city views. Suites include separate living rooms, dining tables, and artwork by prominent Greek artists.

Offering sweeping views of the Acropolis, the rooftop Première features French–influenced cuisine using Mediterranean ingredients. Get breakfast at Cafezoe and during warmer months, enjoy refreshments and cocktails at Poolzoe.

I-Spa offers seven treatment suites, including a couples' suite, sauna, and hammam. The signature Relaxation treatment includes a massage, chakra healing, and face treatment.

Explore history at the Parthenon or the Acropolis Museum. Shop in the Plaka district or have a picnic on Philopappos Hill. See artifacts that date back to 6,000 B.C. at the National Archaeological Museum.

89-93 Syngrou Avenue. Athens, 11745 Greece

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport.

• Room upgrade at check-in, when available 1
• Unique Amenity : $100 property credit to spend on qualifying dining, spa, and resort activities.

1 Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

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Looking for more? See all our luxury hotels in Athens, Greece

Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR): Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible Platinum Charge Card Members and Centurion ® Members. Platinum Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Platinum Charge Card Members or Centurion ® Members, are not eligible for FHR program benefits. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express ® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be travelling on the itinerary booked. Noon check-in and room upgrade are subject to availability and are provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of experience credit and additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property. The experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the experience credit. To receive the experience credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The experience credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. The breakfast credit will be applied at check-out. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members travelling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for FHR program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, please call the number on the back of your Card. 

Centurion Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR): Centurion Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through your Relationship Manager or Centurion Travel Service with participating properties and are valid for Centurion ® Members only. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express ® Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. Room upgrades are subject to availability and are provided first at the time of booking and then at check-in, if available; certain room categories are not eligible for an upgrade. Noon check-in is subject to availability and is provided at check-in. The type of experience credit varies by property; the experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the experience credit. To receive the experience credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The experience credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. The breakfast credit will be applied at check-out. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. For a stay of two consecutive nights or more, an additional experience credit of US$200 will be provided. Benefit restrictions are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change.

The Hotel Collection (THC): The Hotel Collection (THC) benefits are available for new bookings of two consecutive nights or more, with participating properties, made through Platinum Travel Service, Centurion Travel Service or American Express Travel Online (americanexpress.com.au/travel or americanexpress.com.au/thc; Online bookings currently only available to Primary Card Members. Bookings are valid only for eligible Card Members of the following American Express Cards: American Express ® Rewards Advantage Card, American Express ® Explorer Credit Card, American Express ® Platinum Reserve Credit Card, American Express ® Gold Card, American Express ® Gold Business Card, American Express ® Platinum Card, American Express ® Platinum Business Card and American Express ® Centurion Card. Excludes Gold Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Rewards Advantage, Gold or Platinum Charge Card Members. Payment must be made in full with an eligible American Express Card in the Card Member’s name. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, Card Member must travel on itinerary booked to be eligible for benefits described. Noon check-in, late check-out and the room upgrade are subject to availability; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of US$100 credit and additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the US$100 credit will be applied to eligible charges up to US$100. To receive the US$100 credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The US$100 credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain credits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional THC benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke the THC benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your THC benefits. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in US Dollars or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for THC program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.