10 best places to visit in athens greece

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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Top 10 Places to Visit in Athens, Greece

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

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

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

1. The Acropolis Hill

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

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

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

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

2. Plaka and Anafiotika 

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

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

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

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

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

3. Syntagma and 4. The National Gardens 

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

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

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

5. Zappeion

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

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

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus  

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

7. Panathenaic Stadium 

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

8. The Ancient Agora of Athens

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

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

9. Kerameikos Cemetery 

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

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

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

10. The Pnyx

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

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

13 Facts You Did Not Know About the Acropolis of Athens

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

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23 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

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

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

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

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

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

1. Visit the Ancient Acropolis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 44 Patission Street, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 24 Andrianou Street, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location: Ardettos Hill, Athens

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

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

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

Address: 4 Neophytou Douka Street, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 22 Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens

Official site: www.byzantinemuseum.gr/en/

Location: Ancient Agora, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

Location: Corner of Ermoú and Kalamiótous Street, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location: Philopappou Hill, Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

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

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Top 10 sights in athens.

The Acropolis, Parthenon, National Archaeological Museum, the district of Plaka...Make the most of your holidays to Athens by visiting the 10 top attractions.

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Monastiraki, ancient agora, national archaeological museum, panathenaic stadium, you may also be interested in.

Athens has marvelous cultural attractions, lively neighborhoods, interesting museums and romantic parks and gardens.  Check the best-rated attractions in the capital of Greece. 

The Acropolis of Athens, meaning “high point city” in ancient Greek is a rocky hill in the city center, home to numerous temples and other important buildings.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 Must-See Historical Attractions in Athens

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

Lucy Davidson

06 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

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

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

What are the Top Ten Sites to Visit in Athens?

1. The Acropolis

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

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

2. Temple of Poseidon - Sounio

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

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

3. Theatre of Herodes Atticus

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

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

4. Temple of Hephaestus

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

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

5. The Parthenon

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

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

6. Agios Eleftherios

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

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

7. Panathenaic Stadium

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

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

8. Ancient Agora of Athens

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

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

9. Kerameikos

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

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

10. Athens National Archaeological Museum

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

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

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Discover the Best: Top 10 Attractions to Visit in Athens

• Last Updated on: Jan 12, 2024
• Read Time 12 mins
• Published: Jul 23, 2019

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Athens is a city full of wonders. A place where the history, architecture, and culture developed over thousands of years meet modern design, contemporary museums, and natural beauty.

In fact, even we here at Athens By Locals have had a tough time deciding which of the most famous attractions of Athens should make it on the top 10 list.

Boasting numerous World Heritage monuments, architectural wonders of times long gone, charming churches, renowned museums, and picturesque neighborhoods, the Greek capital teems with exciting attractions to satisfy even the most demanding visitors.

So, after some elaborate thought, here’s our rundown of the top 10 attractions to visit in Athens.

Acropolis Hill

It’s hard to think of Athens without the majestic hill of Acropolis and the imposing temple of Parthenon immediately coming to mind.

Acropolis Hill is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic landmark and by far its most popular attraction. If a few hours is all you have to spend in the Greek capital, then this is the place to head to.

The monuments that have been perched on top of the Acropolis for well over two thousand years are the most prominent examples of the architecture of Greek antiquity, celebrated throughout the Western world.

If you’re visiting Athens from November to March, keep in mind that admission to the Acropolis is free on the first Sunday of each month.

Exploring the Heart of Ancient Greece: A Visit to the Acropolis of Athens

The acropolis museum.

The Acropolis Museum is the most modern jewel in Athens city. Designed by architects Tschumi and Photiades and located on the foot of the Acropolis hill, the spectacular museum complements the ancient monuments.

After marveling at the ruins on the hill, visiting his museum will provide valuable historical and cultural insight into Classical Greece and its golden era. 

Its impressive collections include surviving sculptures, artifacts, as well as the famous Caryatids and other exhibits from several different periods housed in a dazzling building offering views to the ruins below through a transparent glass floor and the Acropolis itself through sloped ceiling windows.

Inside the museum, you’ll also find a few shops, a reading lounge, and a restaurant with astonishing views.

Discovering Athens’ Crown Jewel: The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to the Acropolis Museum

The museum of cycladic art.

Located in the upscale scenic neighborhood of Kolonaki in the center of Athens, the Museum of Cycladic Art is one of the most interesting attractions in the city.

It’s home to over three thousand exhibits, remnants of the ancient Cycladic, Cypriot and Greek civilizations. The exhibits include sculptures, vases, weapons, marble figurines, and other artifacts presented on four spacious floors.

On the fourth floor, modernity and antiquity meet with an exhibition called “Scenes from the daily life in Antiquity,” which presents visitors with visual art in the form of photography recreations that are used as the backdrop to the museum’s objects.

After relaxing at the museum’s stylish cafe , you can also visit the neighboring mansion that houses contemporary art exhibitions.

Do you consider yourself to be a museum lover? A history buff perhaps? We do have a treat for you! Just click below for the ultimate guide including every museum in Athens.

Exploring the Cultural Treasures of Athens: A Comprehensive Guide to the Museums of Athens

The national garden.

Nestled in the very heart of Athens, the National Garden offers an opportunity to get away from the crowds and the city’s busy streets to enjoy a relaxing morning in a small natural heaven.

The charming royal gardens were commissioned by the first queen of Greece, Amalia, in the nineteenth century, and they include several gravel paths that wind among the tall trees and duck ponds, a small zoo with peacocks and goats, a colorful playground for the younger visitors, and a cozy cafe for the older ones.

There are several entrances to the gardens from side to side. While there, do not also omit visiting the Zappeion exhibition hall and its gardens just a few minutes away from the national garden. 

Nature’s Oasis in the Heart of Athens: A Guide to National Garden and Zappeion Hall

Lycabettus hill.

Translating to “Hill of Wolves” in Greek, Lycabettus Hill is one of the several hills overlooking Athens and the Attica basin, a great place to get a feel of the vast urban landscape below and one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

To get there, you can choose between hiking up the hill from Kolonaki or riding the cable car to the top.

Apart from the stunning panoramas, you’ll find the pi cturesque chapel of St. George, a small café, a lavish restaurant, and the famous open-air theater on Lycabettus Hill .

If you’re visiting Athens during summertime, make sure to check out the theater’s schedule for concerts and events.

Now you might be asking yourself: what other outdoor places in Athens are worth a visit? Luckily for you, you can check them all out right below.

Discover The Best Outdoor Places in Athens [Greece]

Plaka neighborhood.

Plaka is probably the most iconic neighborhood of Athens and one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe. It stretches just below Acropolis Hill and is extremely popular with visitors and locals alike.

Charming narrow cobblestone alleyways, small hidden squares with traditional restaurants and ice cream shops, intriguing museums, beautiful churches, and open-air cinemas are only a few of the gems you’ll discover in Plaka.

The Picturesque Plaka Neighborhood in Athens

It’s a great place to get acquainted with the Greek capital’s remarkable architecture and the local gastronomy and nightlife scene. Along the way, you’ll come across numerous street vendors selling souvenirs and all kinds of colorful knickknacks and ornaments.

When you visit Plaka, be sure to stroll through the adjoining neighborhood of Anafiotika as well, which resembles a Greek island village.

Anafiotika: The Hidden Gem Under the Acropolis

Stavros niarchos foundation cultural centre.

Only a few kilometers away from the loud and busy city center of Athens, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a true urban oasis.

It opened its doors in 2017 and instantly became one of the city’s most impressive attractions.

Its main building stands atop a hill overlooking Faliron Bay, and the lush park surrounding it stretches for an impressive 170.00 square meters, encompassing an artificial canal, lavish gardens, cafés, and playgrounds, as well as the Greek National Opera and the National Library’s buildings.

Several cultural events, concerts, and parties occur in the complex year-round, with thousands of locals flocking in to enjoy hot evenings by the sea. The easiest way to get there is by tram or the shuttle bus that departs from Syntagma square .

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is also an excellent place for a romantic walk on an evening date.

Are you looking for a touch of romance on your trip to Athens? Here are some ideas you may find interesting .

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a wide amphitheater that lies on the southern slope of Acropolis hill.  It was built in 161 AD and named after the homonymous affluent Athenian citizen who was its founder.

Having undergone a complete restoration process in the ’50s, the famous auditorium can seat up to five thousand people and hosts many cultural events like art festivals, concerts, and even stand-up comedy acts.

The theater is most famous as the official venue of the world-renowned Athens & Epidaurus Festival.

E ven though you can visit the monument any day, attending an event in the theater is highly recommended to fully grasp its atmosphere and impeccable acoustics.

The World’s Most Majestic Stage: The Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens

Benaki museum of greek culture.

Benaki Museum of Greek Culture is perhaps the city’s most popular museum among those who want to understand Greek history, arts, and culture from prehistoric times up to the modern age.

It was founded by Antonis Benakis in the 19th century and has constantly been attracting thousands of visitors annually ever since.

The museum’s building complex displays virtually countless exhibits – artifacts from the Bronze Age, sculptures from Classical Greece, Byzantine artworks, Islamic art, World War II uniforms, traditional costumes, old furniture, and modern paintings. 

Art lovers who like to take their time when exploring museums might even need to schedule multiple visits to this one to be able to go through all the collections.

Panathenaic Stadium

It’s almost impossible to visit this ancient stadium without instantly getting an inexplicable urge to start running along its tracks like a true Olympian athlete amidst the roar of an imaginary crowd.

Panathenaic Stadium was built in the 4th century BC and was originally used for a series of athletic events and contests.  It was completely restored for the very first modern Olympic games in 1896 and has been a popular attraction since.

Nowadays, it serves as a venue for concerts and events with a capacity of 70.000 seats.

Visiting this monument should definitely be on your Athens bucket list if you want to play track star and get a glimpse into the rich history of athletics in ancient Greece.

The Panathenaic Stadium of Athens: An Architectural Marvel That Stands the Test of Time

Tips and useful information regarding the top attractions of athens.

Here, you will find some useful information about visiting the top attractions of Athens, our suggestions, and a few local tips. We will also answer the questions asked most frequently by our readers to help you plan and make your next vacation in Athens unforgettable.

What should I not miss in Athens?

There are plenty of attractions worth visiting in Athens. But if there is one that you should absolutely not miss, it is the Acropolis. If you still have time, visit the Acropolis Museum to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture.

What is Athens famous for?

Athens is most famous for being the birthplace of Democracy, for having an uninterrupted history of more than 2,500 years, and for being home to the Parthenon, one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet.

What are the three famous places in Athens?

Athens is full of attractions and famous landmarks. However, if we had to choose only three of them, we could say that the three most famous places in Athens are the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus , and the Ancient Agora.

How many days in Athens is enough?

No matter how many days you choose to spend in Athens, there will always be exciting things to do and see. Having said that, you will need at least 3 days to see the most popular attractions and visit the most famous places in the city.

Is Athens worth visiting?

Definitely. If you are planning to travel to a Greek island like Mykonos ( check here how to get there from Athens ) or Santorini ( best ways to travel from Athens to Santorini ), immediately after landing in Athens, you should reconsider and spend at least a few days enjoying the wonders that the capital of Greece has to offer. We are certain that you will not be disappointed.

What to do in Athens in 3 days?

If you only have 3 days to spend in Athens, we strongly recommend visiting the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora of Athens as well as walking through the neighborhoods of Koukaki , Monastiraki, Thission , and Syntagma.

What are 5 facts about Athens?

If we had to choose only 5 facts about Athens, those would be the following: Athens is the birthplace of democracy. Athens was the first European capital of culture. The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. Athens holds the record for the highest recorded temperature in Europe ever. Athens has the most theatrical stages in the world.

Is Athens older than Rome?

Yes. Athens is actually the oldest capital in Europe preceding Rome for hundreds of years.

What’s the best area to stay in Athens?

In general, the most sought-after locations in Athens are the areas that are closest to the Acropolis. These include Thission, Monastiraki, Syntagma, Koukaki, and Plaka. These neighborhoods feature numerous hotels and other accommodation options of all types and for all budgets .

Is Athens walkable?

Athens is a massive city. However, the city center of Athens, where most of the top attractions are located, is quite easy to walk through. You can actually see quite a few of the city’s most famous sights with just a couple of hours of walking.

How much time do you need for the Acropolis?

A complete tour of the Acropolis takes approximately 2 hours. Keep in mind, however, that if you’re visiting during summer, 2 hours on top of the hill in the hot weather can be rather exhausting.

How hard is the walk up to the Acropolis?

No, it’s not hard at all. It’s actually quite easy to climb Acropolis Hill. It shouldn’t take more than twenty minutes at a normal pace, and there is also an elevator for people with disabilities. Also, there are a few places where you can stop and rest on the way up.

Is Acropolis free on Sundays?

Yes but only during the winter season. Entry to the Acropolis is free on Sundays from 1st November to 31st March.

Is it easy to get around Athens?

Athens has three different metro lines, a tram, and numerous buses and trolleys running throughout the city. Getting around Athens -and especially the city center- is quite easy. However, the metro and tram service stops around midnight.

Overall, visiting Athens for a few days might pose a challenge. The city features so many unique attractions that you will have difficulty choosing which to include in your itinerary.

Athens Uncovered: Must-Visit Places for Every Traveler

Follow this guide and make sure you fit in as many of the top attractions of Athens as possible to make the most out of your trip.

If you have over a few days to spend in this marvelous city, we strongly recommend you tick all those boxes.

Whatever the case may be, we are certain that you will be feeling the awe and grandeur that has made Athens a favorite travel destination for travelers around the globe.

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.

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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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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

Top 10 Things to Do in Athens Greece

1: the acropolis.

A visit to the Acropolis is a must-do during your time in Athens. After all, it’s one of the places that makes Athens, Greece famous. The Acropolis is the perfect place for any traveler, whether you’re interested in history or culture. This ancient site is actually a citadel that is located on a hill overlooking the capital city of Athens. This is where you will find what remains of many of the famous ancient buildings that make Greece, Greece, such as the Parthenon. The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which represents the best of ancient Greek architecture.

Visiting the Acropolis is incredibly accessible and easy to do, but you do have to purchase a ticket when you arrive. There are two different ticket options, one that only admits you to the Acropolis and Parthenon, and one that can get you in here and other archaeological sites in the area, known as a combination ticket. Depending on your travel style, and what else you want to do and see in Athens, consider purchasing the combination ticket so that you can see more! There is also an option to purchase your tickets online before arriving, if you know what day you plan on visiting, and certain days are free admission.

At the Acropolis, there is plenty to see and experience. You’ll have the chance to visit the Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaea, the famous Parthenon, and more, so this will be an all-day excursion. Make the most of it, take in the beautiful architecture, and spend a day exploring ancient ruins—but don’t forget your walking shoes and sunblock, visiting the Acropolis is an outdoor activity!

2: The National Archaeological museum

Once you’ve been inspired by the ancient structures at the Acropolis, you might be itching to learn more about ancient Greek art and architecture. The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most notable things to do in Athens, Greece, and is known as one of the most important museums in the world holding artifacts from ancient Greece. The National Archaeological Museum has been around since the late 1800s, housing and commemorating Greek antiquities for the beauty and history they possess. This is also the largest Archaeological Museum in Greece, meaning it’ll be easy to get lost in here for a day marveling at Greece’s extensive history.

The museum has both winter and summer hours and rates for visiting and is only open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so make sure you plan ahead. The National Archaeological Museum can be accessed by most public transport and is accessible for people with disabilities. As you make your way through the museum, you’ll be able to make your way through history: from prehistoric antiquities to sculpture and metalwork. You also won’t only find Greek art and architecture here—the museum houses art from Egypt and Cyprus as well, so you’ll be able to gain a full understanding of ancient art from this part of the world, its history, and its impact on modern life.

If you’re spending your Greek vacation in Athens, you simply have to spend a day exploring Plaka. Plaka is a historical neighborhood in Athens, Greece located just below the Acropolis. Here, you’ll truly feel like you’ve gone back in time a little bit, or perhaps, that you’ve entered a beautiful fantasy world. Plaka is lined with cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafes, and small tavernas. In Plaka, you’ll be able to get most of your souvenir shopping done, as the streets are lined with shops selling everything you could possibly want, from clothes to ceramics.

Plaka is located in Athens, Greece, just a few blocks away from Syntagma Square and Monastiraki Square, meaning you can easily access Plaka from both public transport and the airport. Like many of the attractions in Athens, Plaka’s shops have both winter and summer hours, and close earlier in the winter, so plan on getting your shopping in during the day. Plaka truly is one of the most important, must-see places in Athens, and is great for people traveling solo—it is easily one of the safest areas of Athens to explore! So, throw on your walking shoes and grab your wallet—Plaka’s cobblestone streets are waiting for you!

4: Mount Lycabettus

For the adventurer, Mount Lycabettus is here to combine your love for nature with views of the city during your trip to Athens, Greece. Mount Lycabettus stands at about 300 meters above sea level. Covered in pine trees, this towering mountain has two peaks, which are home to the Chapel of St. George, a restaurant, and a theatre. This is the highest point in Athens, and will give you the absolute best views of the city, no matter what time of day you decide to climb the mountain.

The climb to the top of Mount Lycabettus may be a challenging one, especially in the summer months, as there is no shade. The city also offers a funicular railway to help you reach the top as well, so that you can still get the beautiful view without walking in the sun to reach the top of the mountain. The entire walk can take anywhere from a half an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your personal fitness level. If walking just isn’t your thing, there is also an option to take a cable car to the top, but you simply can’t beat climbing to the highest peak in Athens! And if you’re a budget traveler, you’re in luck! The walk up Mount Lycabettus is free!

5: Panathenaic Stadium

During your visit to Athens, Greece, you definitely can’t miss a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium. Its historical significance is a huge reason to visit, but it’s also a unique piece of architecture in Athens, Greece. The only stadium in the world built completely out of marble, the Panathenaic Stadium was originally used to host games during the celebration of the Great Panathenaia. This place was specifically significant during Roman times when Athens was no longer a city that held any political power.

For tourists, the Panathenaic Stadium is conveniently located in downtown Athens. You can access the stadium via most public transportation, or by walking. While there is a small admission fee to enter the Panathenaic Stadium, it’s the perfect outing for families because kids under six get free admission!

Tourists often have fun running around the stadium, right where ancient athletes once competed. It is advised that you check the weather before planning a morning jog around the stadium—in the summer, the stadium’s marble makes the area very hot, and in the winter, wet weather can make the steps slippery, so plan accordingly!

During your visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, you can’t miss taking a picture from the upper tier of Stand 21, where you can see the stadium, as well as other historical and architectural landmarks, such as the Parthenon, all at once. Another great photo op is of the podium with the stadium in the backdrop—your friends and family back home will be amazed at the view!

6: ODEON OF HERODES ATTICUS

Another beautiful architectural site not to be missed during your trip to Athens, Greece is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Located on the southwest side of the Acropolis, this Roman theater was renovated in 1950, so you’ll be able to witness it similarly to how it looked in ancient times. In ancient Greece, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus was a musical theater used for shows, and could seat up to 5,000 people. Today, concerts are still held here, although the theater was originally built in 161 CE.

A visit to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is not included in the general Acropolis admission. To access the theater, you will enter via the Dionyssiou Areopagitou Street, which is the walkway specifically built to connect each of Athens’ most famous sites. Generally, you cannot enter the theater unless you are there to view a show or concert. If concerts aren’t your thing, or you didn’t get tickets, don’t worry! You can still see the Odeon from above if you climb to the top of the Acropolis!

7: Philopappos Monument

The Philopappos Monument and hill is easily one of the most interesting things to do in Athens, Greece during your Greek vacation. This monument is actually an ancient Greek mausoleum, which was created in dedication to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos. A prince of the Kingdom of Commagene, his monument was placed on the Mouseion Hill, just south of the famous Acropolis. Recent studies have found that architectural parts of the Philopappos Monument were used in the creation and building of the Parthenon, but today, only a mere two sides of the Philopappos Monument remain to be viewed by modern tourists. Nearly all of it has been destroyed since ancient times, making it one of the most important sites to visit during your time in Athens, Greece.

Visiting the Philopappos Monument is simply a must-do during your Greek vacation. While public transport can get you close to the monument, you do have to do a bit of walking to actually see what you came for. Taking the metro to Petralona Station will get you about 25 minutes from the hill, which is a short walk to do for a site as amazing as this.

8: Ancient Agora

During your time in Athens, Greece, you definitely can’t miss a visit to the Ancient Agora. If you’re truly trying to get a sense of Greek culture, and ancient Greek history, this is a place that simply has to be on your itinerary. The Ancient Agora is part of Classical Athens, and is known to be the best example of an ancient Greek Agora still available for viewing today. An agora, as used in ancient Greece, was a public meeting place, meaning this was one of the largest social centers of ancient Athens. Today, you can access the Ancient Agora by heading to the northwest side of the Acropolis. It is surrounded by both the Areopagus and Agoraios Kolonos, two of the hills in the area, the latter also known as Market Hill.

Visiting the Ancient Agora is one of the most accessible tourist attractions in Athens. Unlike many of the ancient monuments in the area, the Ancient Agora is open daily, from 8AM to 3PM. Admission can be bought either as a single ticket for just the Agora, or as a combination ticket that would get you into other ancient monuments such as the Acropolis.

9: Monastiraki

When you travel through Athens, Greece, you have to pay a visit to Monastiraki. Monastiraki means “small monastery,” and is a historic neighborhood in Athens known for being home to many iconic landmarks. This is where you’ll find a couple of the places on this list, including the Ancient Agora, as well as others, such as the Stoa for Attalos and Hadrian’s Library. If you’re looking to get some souvenir shopping done, you’re in luck—Monastiraki is also the site of an extensive Sunday flea market selling everything from handmade shoes to souvenir shirts. Of course, there are plenty of shops open all week, but only on Sundays will you find people selling their handmade goods out on the streets. This historic neighborhood is perfect for the traveler looking to experience all things Greek. Only in Monastiraki will you be able to visit the shops, and witness the unique architecture of traditional tavernas and views of the Acropolis.

This is a place of historical significance. With plenty of ancient landmarks to visit, you simply can’t ignore the neighborhood’s rich history as a transportation hub for the city that blossomed with the historic Monastiraki Station. In Monastiraki, you’ll find yourself wandering through plenty of historic sites, from the mosque of Tzistarakis Aga to the Temple of Zeus, and the Monastery of Pantanassa. You’ll also be welcomed by plenty of museums to explore, including the Greek Museum of Folk Arts. It’s easy to wander through Monastiraki all day, walking by the river and exploring centuries-old architecture. This is a local hub—so you won’t have to worry about tourist traps!

10: Kolonaki

For your last must-visit spot in Athens, Greece, you definitely have to add Kolonaki to your trip itinerary. Kolonaki is another beautiful neighborhood in Athens, Greece, and yet it is completely different from the other historic neighborhoods on this list. This is a higher-fashion neighborhood perfect for the traveler who’s ready to shop. Kolonaki is home to designer boutiques, international labels, and galleries. A visit here will turn your Greek vacation into a luxury one as you explore fine dining, trendy bars, and live music, from jazz to DJs. This is also the perfect place to start your trek up Mount Lycabettus.

A visit to Kolonaki is sure to add some fun to your Greek itinerary. Here, you can visit the Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cyclandic Art, and the Byzantine Museum. You also can’t miss the National Park on Irodou Attikou Street, where you can watch the changing of the guard at the Presidential Mansion. These spots are ones that will add rich history, culture, and art to your Greek itinerary, making for the perfect addition to any Greek vacation.

A vacation to Athens, Greece is one many travelers dream about. From the stunning architecture to the rich history, there is plenty to see and enjoy during a trip to Athens. You could easily spend more than a week here, taking in every nook and cranny this ancient city has to offer. Hidden gems are tucked away in historic neighborhoods, and so are fancy restaurants, flea markets, and lots of ancient architecture. The Acropolis sits overlooking the city along with other centuries old buildings. Climb to the top of Mount Lycabettus and take in the view of the city. There are endless options when it comes to Athens, Greece for any type of traveler, so what are you waiting for? Book that plane ticket, and get ready to explore what’s left of ancient Greece.

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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

The Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Written By: Marisa Feyen

Updated On: March 11, 2024

Explore the capital city of Greece with our complete breakdown of the best things to do in Athens. We love Athens, but there is so much to see that it can sometimes be overwhelming, especially for a first-time visitor. If you follow these recommendations you will see the best of Athens in a relatively short amount of time.

In order to bring you the most comprehensive information on what you should see in Athens, we partnered with local Athens resident Marisa Feyen. We combined our knowledge to put together an Athens guide with both the popular attractions, ancient ruins, and some local recommendations to take you off the beaten path. Are you ready to plan your trip to Athens? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Athens

The capital of Greece is the perfect place to get your dose of ancient history while taking in the vibrant Greek culture. These are the best things to do in Athens from visiting its ancient ruins to enjoying Greek foo d and taking in some of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

We used the Athens Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Site Pass on our latest trip and it was perfect if you want to see the Athens highlights, this pass is the right fit.

To visit the best archeological sites, purchase this Athens Combo Ticket where you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to major Athens Attractions. The combination ticket includes the Acropolis, Roman Agora, and Ancient Agora as well as Aristotle’s School and the Keramikos Ancient Cemetery. Plus access to Hadrian’s Library and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Details here .

1. Visit the Acropolis

You cannot come to Greece and not visit the Acropolis. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities and the Acropolis has been standing high above Athens for more than 2500 years. The Acropolis is considered one of the greatest architectural wonders in the world. It is the historical center of Athens and is one of the most famous sites on earth. So naturally, a visit to the Acropolis is one of the most popular things to do in Athens. Therefore, we suggest going to see the Acropolis early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

The Parthenon is the most famous of the ancient ruins of Acropolis. It is the symbol of democracy dominating the hill of the Acropolis and dates back to the 5th century BC. But the Acropolis is filled with archeological wonders besides the Parthenon. On the grounds, you will also see The Temple of Athena Nike, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus theatre.

Purchase this combo package to see both the Acropolis and Museum. Skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended and this combination ticket gives you front-of – the-line entry to both the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. Follow a field expert and licensed archaeologist through the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Details here

Other temples to visit are the Propylea Temple of Nike, the Erechtheion Temple and you must see the Dionysus Theater. I learned of this theater while studying Greek Tragedies in theatre school and it was amazing to see this famous theater. Also, don’t miss seeing the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the sanctuary of Asclepius.

The Temple of Athena Nike is my personal favorite. It is a temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena and Nike Goddess. Athena Nike may be the smallest of the temples of the Acropolis, but I love its location standing on the edge of a high cliff. Purchase  skip the line tickets  in advance to avoid queues.

• Opening Hours : 8 am to 8 pm last admission 7:30
• The entrance fee  to the Acropolis is €20.
• If you buy ahead of time with  GetYourGuide  it’s approximately €24 and includes skip the long line tickets and access to the Acropolis hill

2. Acropolis Museum

To escape the crowds and heat, go to the Acropolis Museum. Athens is full of history and there is no better place to learn all about it than the Acropolis Museum. This highly rated guided tour takes you on a tour of the New Acropolis Museum with a local guide. The 1 hour 15 minute guided tour of the New Acropolis Museum goes through the modern building that houses 4000 ancient relics and artifacts from Ancient Greece.

This is a great compliment to an Acropolis visit and there is a good video that shows the history of the Parthenon. The new Acropolis Museum, located at 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Promenade

3. Concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Odeon in ancient Greece was a building for singing and musical shows. In Athens, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is the theatre that sits at the base of the Acropolis. To this day it hosts world-renowned artists, like the Foo Fighters in 2017 and Sting in 2018. See details of events at the Odeon here.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to watch a concert in the oldest of venues among ancient ruins. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is not only historic, intimate and every seat offers great views of the stage. As part of the Epidaurus Festival every summer, the Odeon hosts dozens of concerts. Don’t be afraid to attend theatre events! Unless noted specifically, theater shows will have English subtitles.

4. Ancient Agora And The Temple of Hephaestus

The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best-preserved ancient ruins in Athens. Located within the walls of the Ancient Agora, some say this is even more impressive than the Parthenon. The intricate details and towering fluted columns make the Temple Of Hephaestus a great thing to see in Athens if you love greek architecture.

• This Ancient Agora Guided Tour takes you through the Hephaestus Temple from the 5th century BC including the 12 Apostles, the Temple of Apollo Patroos, the Stoa of Zeus, the Altar of Zeus and more.

The surrounding Agora was founded back in the 6th century BC when the Ancient Agora of Athens was originally used as a meeting place or a place to congregate. Like most of the temples in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is best to visit in the morning. The light is better, it is cooler and you will avoid the masses of tourists that show up later in the day.

Stoa of Attalos was restored in 1953 – 1956 and today it is a museum that houses sculptures and exhibits of Ancient Agora. There are also remnants from the ancient ruins of Temple of Hephaestus.

A guided tour of Ancient Agora is one of the best ways to visit the Temple of Hephaestus . You’ll visit the Greek temple as well as the church of the 12 Apostles, the Temple of Apollo Patroos, the Stoa of Zeus, the Altar of Zeus. The tour ends at the Attalos Museum to tour its ancient artifacts.

5. The Roman Agora

This is the most popular Agora (or meeting place) in Athens. Probably because Socrates used to lecture here. The Roman Agora was built between 19 and 11 BC, this area is huge with over 30 buildings and ancient monuments and requires a lot of walking. It is a good way to spend a couple of hours after visiting the more main sites.

6. Cultural History at the Benaki Museum

The elegant Benaki Museum highlights the history of Greece throughout the ages. The most unique items are gilded ceilings and wood paneling recovered from 18th-century Greek mansions and are displayed as reconstructed rooms in the museum. The museum also has a fabulous gift shop. I visit the museum just to purchase high-quality reproductions and other gifts for family and friends.

• Hours: Closed Mon – Tue. Wed/Fri: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Thur/Sat: 10:00 am – 12:00 am. Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Cost: permanent exhibition €9 (free Thursdays), special exhibition €7

7. National Archaeological Museum 

Established in 1829, the National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum in Greece. Housing 11,000 exhibits of ancient Greek art from prehistory to late antiquity. It is also considered one of the world’s best museums for ancient Greek art. If you are really into art history then this is a place you should visit. If you do, make sure not to miss Agamemnon’s gold death. It is worth the visit just to see this.

8. Ancient Greek Temple of Olympian Zeus

Compared to a lot of the other ancient ruins in Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus may seem not to have a lot left of it. That being said it is no less impressive. I found myself imagining just how grand and massive this temple would have been in its glory. In its prime, there were 104 17 meters tall (55 feet) columns housing statues of Gods. Today only 15 remain, but the grounds are very impressive to visit. Started in the 6th century BC but was not completed until the 2nd Century AD this is probably one of the temples that took the longest to build.

• Note: The Temple of Zeus is currently under construction and the pillars you see above are all hidden under scaffolding. I wouldn’t recommend visiting it at this time.

One look at those columns and you will see why. A good way to visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus is to book this audio tour that you can listen to on your phone. It includes skip the line tickets to Acropolis Hill, Temple of Zeus and the Ancient Agora. Enjoy a full attraction experience with three separate e-tickets and audio tours on your phone

9. Stroll the Streets of Plaka

Plaka is a neighborhood located just below the Acropolis and stretches to Syntagma Square. This is the oldest neighborhood of modern Athens and it feels like you have stepped back in time with the Neoclassical buildings, and balconies overflowing with all kinds of flowers. We walked the tight, twisting alleys that are accented by 19th-century facades that burst with colors in the summer. Plaka is all about family-run shops and restaurants and is a great place to check out some nightlife in Athens.

For a fun tour of Plaka and other Athens neighborhoods, take this ebiking tour through the streets and side streets of Athens without the crowds. Climb the Hill of Nymphs for views of the Acropolis and Mount Lycabettus. Plus, discover the site of the first modern Olympic Games at the Panathenaic Stadium which is a modern reconstruction of the stadium built for the Panathenaic Games.

10. Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square is a bustling meeting place located in the heart of Athens. Located beneath the Acropolis, Monastiraki Square is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens. With walking streets, cafes and patios it is a great place to relax and take a stroll for an afternoon. In Monastiraki, you’ll find the archeological site of Ancient Agora.

11. Hadrian’s Library

Hadrian’s Library is located next to Monastiraki Square. It was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD. It’s an impressive set of columns in the heart of the city center. The site was used for exactly what you would think, to house books. It was also a place for philosophical walks and teaching.

This 3-hour private walking tour is an excellent way to explore the area. Take a walk along the walking street of Mitropoleos Street to the Metropolis Athens Cathedral. See the Roman Forum, the Tower of the Winds, and Hadrian’s Library. You’ll cover a lot of ground to see Monastiraki Square and its Flea Market, Ancient Agora, Temple of Hephaestus, and much more. 

12. Athens Food Tour

A great way to visit the Monastiraki area of Athens is to take a food tour. This food tour takes you through Monastiraki and its famous Greek tavernas and restaurants plus its archeological attractions and ancient ruins of the city center including Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora, and the Monastiraki Flea Market. This market is famous for its indoor artisanal shops selling handmade sandals and souvenirs plus its outdoor food market. This tour will take you to cafés, markets, delicatessens where you’ll also sample some great street food haunts. More details here.

13. Changing of the Guard -Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The first time we visited Athens, we stayed at Syntagma Square and had the privilege of watching the changing of the guard without even knowing they did it! The Hellenic Parliament building dominates the area and is a popular place to visit in Athens. The guards stand guard over the Tomb of the Uknown Soldier and each day the guards change, however, on Sundays at 11:00 am, the official ceremony takes place.

This city tour not only includes stops at Athens’s top attractions to visit the Acropolis, Parthenon, Nike Temple and more, but you’ll also see other lesser-known sites. Meet in the city center at the House of Parliament and see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the National Garden, Zeus Temple and Hadrians’s Arch while you learn of the first Olympic Games and ancient Greek History.

14. Lycabettus Hill (Mount Lycabettus)

The acropolis may be the high hill in Athens that everyone knows, but Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens. The prominent 277-meter hill that is visible from all over Athens is one of the best views of the Acropolis. It is one of my favorite sites because you can see the entire city, including the Acropolis, all the way to the sea. It’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Athens.

There is a funicular that can take you to the top of Mount Lycabettus, or you can take the stairs if you’re looking for some extra exercise. At the top, you’ll find Agios Georgios (St. George Church) and there is a cafe. If you want to do something decadent, book dinner at Orizontes for views of the Acropolis to Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf

• Location: corner of Ploutarhiou and Aristippou Streets
• Cost: €7 return (€5 one-way)
• Hours: 9 am – 2:30 am (every 30 minutes) Details for funicular hours here.

Another good place for sunset in Athens is Philopappos Hill. Take a hike through this park filled with pine trees and walking paths for views of the Acropolis, city center, and the Saronic Gulf.

15. Take in the Neoclassical Architecture

Signs of ancient Greek history are evident throughout Athens, but there are also signs of its modern history as well. This history begins when the capital of Greece was moved from the Peloponnese peninsula to Athens after Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Turks.

At that time, Athens was a village of 7,000 residents with very few real houses. Wanting to recreate a grand capital city, the new king of Greece commissioned a reconstruction. The remaining neoclassical structures are a result of this effort.

• Zappeion Hall, the first building in the world to serve the Olympic Games, the Athenian Triptych
• Three buildings near Panepestimio
• National Library of Greece
• The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
• The Academy of Athens
• The buildings that house both the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Benaki Museum
• The Hellenic Parliament Building that dominates Syntagma Square.

The guides at  Livin’ Lovin’  give a fantastic tour that covers neoclassical buildings (or many other interesting fascinating details about Athens)

16. Museum of Cycladic Art

The M useum of Cycladic Art is not only a fine example of Neoclassical Art, it also houses one of the finest collections of Cycladic art. Here you’ll see vases, tools, weapons, pottery, and marble figurines from the bronze age (3000 BC). If you plan on visiting the Greek Islands, the Museum of Cycladic Art is a great compliment as The Cycladic culture flourished in the Aegean Sea in such places as Santorini and Mykonos .

17.Explore Athens Central Market

Every day except Sunday, you can experience the buzz of the largest market in Athens. Athens Central Market extends to both sides of Athinas Street, with vegetables and olives sold on one side, and meat and fish on the other.

This is not a place for those with a queasy stomach – animal heads and carcasses hang from hooks in front of passersby and butchers carve the meat in open stalls. Even if you do have a sensitive stomach, head to the vegetable side of the market and try the olives on display. My favorite is the wrinkly kind, which is sun-dried and dry salt-cured. I recommend making a stop by Miran for a glimpse into old Athens and sample their excellent cured meats.

• Hours: daily, except Sunday 7 am – 6 pm
• Location: Athinas 42

18. Temple of Poseidon

Be Inspired at the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. If you’ve had enough of the city and want to get away to relax, Cape Sounio is a fantastic option. Standing 60 meters above sea level, it is still the  perfect location for a temple honoring Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. The Temple of Poseidon was constructed in 444–440 BC and is 70 km outside of the city.

Take a tour of the marble temple, which dates from the 5th century B.C., and then have lunch or dinner at a taverna on the beach just below the temple . You can book day tours to Poseiden here.

19. Sounio for Sunset

Sounio is another fantastic spot in Athens to view the sunset. Located on the sea about 70 kilometers from the city center, you’ll need a car hire to reach it but it is worth it as it is one of the coolest things to do in Athens. You can  book sunset tours   from Athens to Sounio’s meeting at the Halandri Metro station where you’ll take a bus to the Poseidon Temple.

• For more information check out  Odysseus’ Culture
• Hours: winter: 9:30 am – sunset, summer: 9 am – sunset
• Cost: €8/€4 reduced

20. Visit the Metro Station Mini-Museums

During preparation for the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens, the metro system was expanded, including a brand new line connecting the new airport to the center (the blue line). Parts of this line had to be dug essentially by hand to preserve artifacts that were buried beneath the current city.

These metro stops now serve as mini-museums displaying some of the ancient statuary, gravestones, oil lamps, and vases from the 5th century BC that were found during the dig. The most interesting stations to check out are Syntagma, also home to the tomb of the unknown soldier, and Monastiraki stations.

• Hours: 5:30 am – 12:30 am
• Location: Syntagma and Monastiraki metro stations

21. Aeropagus Hill (Mars Hill)

Greece has strong ties to early Christianity. The Apostle Paul wrote to early Christians in the Greek cities of Corinth and Thessaloniki and made a famous sermon about the identity of “the Unknown God” on the Aeropagus Hill (also known as Mars Hill) next to the Acropolis.

It is referenced in Acts 17 of the New Testament. The location is marked by a plaque (in Greek). Climb up the stairs and admire the fabulous view where Paul had stood preaching to the people of Athens.

22. Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, Athens presents dozens of theater, music and dance events throughout June, July, and August. The artists come from all over the world, but promoting Greek artists is the primary focus of the festival.

The venues are several sites in Athens (including the Odeon) and two sites in the ancient Epidaurus on the Peloponnese peninsula, including the magnificent ancient theater. The theater events typically include English subtitles but check the event information to confirm.

• Where: various venues around Athens & Epidaurus
• When: June 4 – August 15 (2020)

23. Transcend Ancient History into Modern Art

State of Concept is a non-profit organization that serves as a bridge between Greek contemporary art and the international art scene. They feature up-and-coming artists via solo or group shows. Their aim, “has been asking questions that relate to the notion of the State and its contemporary condition in the West and beyond.”They also offer free consultations to advise local artists.

State of Concept is also known for its high-quality curation that feels like the Tate Modern but in a small and intimate setting. They have showcased everything from virtual reality to films and traditional mediums.

• Hours: Wednesday – Friday 4:30-8:30pm, Saturday 12pm – 5pm

24. Experience the Chatty Coffee Culture

For me, the best place to experience the coffee culture is the square of Agia Irini. It’s a short walk from Monastiraki on a pedestrian street (Aeolou Street). You’ll know you’ve found it when you see the cathedral, which was the main cathedral of Athens until the new one was built. Take a peek inside the cathedral for a fantastic example of the Byzantine style.

Tailor-made and Rooster are cafes that are full day and night. Kostas, a tiny shop that serves the best souvlaki in Athens (in my humble opinion) is also located in the square.

25. Taste the Meze

Traditional Greek food is very simple and relies on high-quality fresh ingredients. Greeks eat family style, with a large number of small dishes, called meze, that is shared by everyone at the table. “Meze” means taste or small bite. Like the food itself, eating Meze is a casual affair. Greeks are not shy about grabbing food from the shared plates with a fork, or with their fingers. It starts with salads like the Greek salad (tomatoes, feta, cucumber, onion, peppers, olives) and dips (fava, tzatziki) and then leads to meat and fish dishes, and side dishes like wild greens and fried potatoes.

Don’t neglect to add a squeeze of lemon to almost everything nor the traditional drinks – raki, ouzo, or house wine. Barbounaki in Kolonaki or Seychelles in Metaxourgheio are modern takes on the traditional meze, but any taverna will offer these small dishes. Read this Greek Food Guide – Traditional Dishes to Eat in Greece

26. Stavros Niarchos Center

This cultural center was fully funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (€617-million) and was donated to the Greek state. The building is designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and the 43-acre parks were designed via a partnership between New York and Greece-based landscape designers.

The building is modern with angular glass walls and the park’s indigenous Mediterranean plants bring much-needed green space to the neighborhood. The site houses the Greek National Library and the Greek National Opera House.

27. National Gardens

Did I mention that Athens is very hot in the summer? You’ll appreciate the shade of the National Gardens! Commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838 as the royal garden of the adjacent palace (which is now the Greek Parliament building), the National Garden is a picturesque respite from the busy city.

It’s one of the few shady spots in the center and is great for a walk and spotting ruins, like columns and Corinthian capitals. The entrance of the park is on Leoforos Amalias (named after the queen) just a short walk from Syntagma Square and is marked by the 12 palm trees that she planted.

28. Open Air Cinema 

My favorite thing to do in Athens in the summer is going to the outdoor cinemas. This is a summer tradition since the 1960s when there were over 600 outdoor cinemas. The summer heat in Athens keeps the temperature comfortable well past midnight.

For me, the best place to go is the cinema in Thissio because it has a great view of the Acropolis. Another great spot is the cinema in the Plaka, which also has a view of the Acropolis and is conveniently located. Cine Paris is another popular outdoor cinema. It is one of about 90 outdoor cinemas in Athens.

• Cost: €6 (Mon-Wed), otherwise €8
• Hours: generally open evenings late April – late October
• Check their website out for showtimes . 

29. Rooftop Bars

One of the best things to do in Athens is to sit back and relax while taking in the views of the Acropolis and city lights. Athens has some incredible rooftop bars and we had the luxury to visit a few for outstanding evenings in the city.

Looking for unique things to do in Athens? This Athens wine tasting experience under the Acropolis takes you to a rooftop restaurant with beautiful views of the Acropolis where you enjoy a wine tasting with tapas as you enjoy delicious Greek Wine.

Some of the best rooftop bars in Athens include A Is for Athens, M.S. Roof Garden Hyper Astrobar at Monastiraki Square, The Terrace Floor at Syntagma Square, Novotel Athens with a rooftop pool bar, Athens Gate overlooking the Temple of Zeuss, Couleur Locale in Monastiraki, The Sky Lounge at Melia in the city center, and the Air Lounge Roof bar in Kotzia Square.

I have to admit, we can’t readily remember all the rooftop bars we visited in Athens, but we always made sure to pop into one at night.

30. Lybacettus Hill

For the ultimate view of Athens go up Lybacettus Hill. Lybacettus Hill is the highest point and the most popular place to go for sunset in Athens. Take the Terleferik (Funicular) up to the top of this high hill after a long hike starting a Aristippou Street and winding your way upwards. The funicular leaves from the corner of Ploutarhiou and Aristippou Streets every 30 minutes.

The funicular is all underground and costs 7€. When you get to the top there is a fine dining restaurant (reservations recommended) and a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the Acropolis and Athen city. You can easily spend an hour or two at the top. There are a couple more bars, a cocktail bar and another restaurant plus snacks. The views are astounding and you can see all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

31. Hunt for Street Art

Athens is a great city to view street art and it rivals street art in Berlin and Paris. On my first visit to Athens, I spent several days wandering the neighborhoods to find hidden gems.

I became curious after I spotted different versions of a black and white princess, always with her eyes closed and a sad expression on her red lips, painted throughout the center. I learned that the artist, Sonke, painted them for an ex-girlfriend in places where she would see them. Street art is more than streaks of paint on a wall. It tells a story about its surroundings and the people in it.

Athens Neighborhoods for Street Art : Check out the neighborhoods of Anafiotika, Psirri, and Metaxourgheio, and on the hill just below the northeast side of the Acropolis.

32. Church of Panagia

Right in the middle of the city is the Church of Panagia, an Old Byzantine Church. It is located along the walking street that connects Sygmata Square and Monastiraki Square. You cannot take pictures inside the church but it is free to enter and it is a beautiful church right in the heart of all the hustle and bustle.

33. Escape With an Island Day Trip

No trip to Greece is complete without experiencing the island life , and Hydra is a great place for that. Be transported back in time to an old-world village that has been preserved like it was when it was built in the 1800s. It doesn’t even allow cars. This is the scene that attracted Leonard Cohen to live here in the 1960s in a house that his family still owns. The restaurants along the harbor are a great place for people-watching. We especially enjoyed hiking on the well-marked trails.

• Check out  Ferry times at OpenSeas
• Ferry Cost: €28 one-way
• Ferry Duration: 1hour, 35 minutes
• You can book this day tour from Athens for a cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina in the Saronic Gulf. 

34. Athens Riviera

Spend a few nights at the Vincci Ever Eden Hotel located on the Athens Riviera. This is a great way to escape the city without needing to get on a ferry to one of the Greek Islands. This hotel offered half board which gave us free breakfast and dinner with our plan. There is a beautiful indoor thermal cycle pool where we enjoyed water stations before enjoying a long and hot sauna. The beach is located right across the beach with a walking path under the highway so you never need to face traffic.

Where to Stay in Athens

If you are looking for where to make a base for Athens sightseeing, we have an entire post on Where to Stay in Athens. For first-time visitors, we suggest Syntagma Square or the Plaka neighborhood. They are in the center of Athens walking distance to many of the top Athens Attractions. See the full post Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

How to Get Around Athens

From the airport to downtown Athens

• You can take the bus from the airport to downtown Athens. That is what we did our first time in the city. The bus is 6€
• The metro also goes from the airport to the city center and is the Metro is 10€. We took this when coming back from our trip to Crete in the Greek Islands .
• There are taxis from the airport as well.
• If you are flying into Athens for the first time on an international flight, we recommend a private pick up. When visiting a new city, we always love seeing our name at arrivals and knowing we have no hassels ahead of us getting to our hotel. Book this affordable private airport transfer here.

Getting Around

Athens is a walkable city and we walked to most major attractions in Athens. Making a base in the city center, it was an easy walk to the ancient ruins like the Acropolis, The Temple of Hephaestus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and more.

The Metro is a great way to get around to limit walking. It stops at most ancient ruins, museums and attractions. We use Google Maps to get around cities and follow the transportation recommendations. See 32 Best Travel Apps

For an overview of Athens, a hop on hop off bus tour is a good way to see the city and this combination tour gives you access to the museums and 48 hours of access to the hop on hop off bus around the city.

A visit to Athens is a trip you’ll never forget. To see the Acropolis for the first time, walk in the footsteps of Gods, and discover the ancient ruins of an ancient city will stay with you for a lifetime. So, these are the best things to do in Athens. Have you visited this ancient city? What do you recommend visitors do when they visit Athens?

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Travel Planning Resources

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Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Marisa Feyen

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30 thoughts on “The Best Things to do in Athens, Greece”

Anthens is one of the most beautiful cities in which I have ever been, if you have any doubts shoul you go or not – don’t even consider it. Just pack the bags and go!

Beautiful country

yeah Athens seems very beautiful place with so many interesrting place . thanks for sharing

very beautiful place, I have seen the views and pictures of this place. I will add this place in my tour plan this year.

Many thanks for sharing your wonderful travel experiences

Greece has been on my bucket list since forever. Thank you guys for this amazing blog. Will plan a trip to Greece soon.

Great article! Thanks and keep posting

Very beautiful city…Thank you for sharing this post

Athens is one of those destinations that I’ve always dreamed of visiting (along with the rest of the world haha). I visited Rhodes a while back and the old town just blew me away. Kinda felt like I was stepping back in time and Athens looks exactly the same. I would love to see the Acropolis too. Perhaps 2020 – fingers crossed! 🙂

Athens is a beautiful city with ancient structures and museums. Nice article. Thanks for sharing.

I have visit two times Athens and it is great city that has so many things to do and see!Your list is great nice article very informative!

Wow so many great things, Thanks for sharing this 🙂

Very beautiful city…. the places you mentioned are just awesome. The photos are just amazing… !!!

Greece seems to be an ideal destination. thx for the tips

Athens is always a charming place to visit. The photos and the landscapes are giving me real travel goals to plan a trip soon to this paradise.

Athens is a beautiful city

Oh my! I have been to Athens and its breathtaking. With the new tips, I’ll be going again.

Wow, I really love Greece and I am really looking forward to visiting someday. Thank you for the tips and for sharing.

Athens is always beautiful and stunning…loved reading throughout your blog.

This is such a helpful post! My husband and I are going to Greece in July of this year and we will be using this guide to help us build our itinerary! Thank you very much for the great ideas – also I have included your wonderful website/blog on my site in a roundup of the best blogs! If you’d like you can check it out on the link I’m including for website. Thanks again – Elle

Hello guys! Very nice presentations about Athens. Next time I will visit more.

Greece seems to be an ideal destination. These tips are really useful. I would recommend you to visit Romania because you will find here as well, absolutely spectacular places.

Hey guys! It is always a treat to read your blog. You write such amazing content with so much amazing information, I never want to leave your website. Also, I am in love with Athens. Thank you for sharing the blog with us.

I’m headed to Athens next week so I’m looking forward to it. Will definitely be checking out Lake Vouliagmeni now that you mention it 🙂

Make a few YouTube videos for us to see how your vacation was in Greece. Please and thank you. 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing about these spots to visit including pictures. It seems like Athens is filled with things to do and it is awesome to see a curated list of the top spots to hit.

Nice Post, you share thing information about athens, I will Appreciate you for your efforts. this information is enough for planning a trip of athens.

Great! Loved it…I am planning a trip to Athens in the coming month. Thanks for the tips.

Wow Great No Need More Details this is enough info to share with everyone. Thanks.

Oh My God! There are so many things to do in Athens. The list is quite long. I’m sure you guys must have enjoyed a lot while visiting these places. Nice post.

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Home » Europe » Athens

11 BEST Places to Visit in Athens (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2 – Mount Lycabettus

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

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

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

#3 – Panathenaic Stadium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6 – Syntagma Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is Athens famous for?

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

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

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

Is Athens a safe place to visit?

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

Is Athens expensive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mathilde Magnier

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• 10 Places To Visit In Athens That Will Let You Witness The Beauty Of This Greek City!

23 Mar 2023

Athens is a city full of wonders and is the perfect holiday destination for everyone. It has museums, monuments, temples, cultural squares, markets, and beaches. So, if you’ve been planning a vacation, then you must consider Athens as your next destination. The cobbled streets, good food and strong coffee would lure any traveler it’s way! But before you start planning, here is an overview of the places to visit in Athens.

This list is to help you figure out what to see in Athens while you’re on the tour. These are one of the best places to visit in Athens:

10 Best Places To Visit In Athens

Take a look at the best places to visit in Athens that will offer you a heart-warming experience and give you the best holiday experience!

• The Acropolis
• Plaka and Anafiotika
• Syntagma Square
• Temple of Hephaestus
• Benaki Museum
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Panaghia Kapnikaria Church
• Panathenaic Stadium
• Athens Riviera

1. The Acropolis

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The Acropolis is the first name on the list of top 10 places to visit in Athens. The Parthenon temple perched on a sturdy rock overlooking the city is a sight to behold! The now world famous monument was once the cultural spot for Athens. It was one of the biggest temples built in that era. You can spend an entire day here looking at the monument and the nearby sanctuaries.

Location: Areopagitou Street, Athens Timing: Summers – 8 am to 4 pm (Monday), 8 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Sunday), 8 am to 10 pm (Friday) Winters – 9 am to 5 pm (Monday to Thursday), 9 am to 10 pm (Friday), 9 am to 8 pm (Saturday and Sunday). Entry Fee: € 5

Must Read: Greece In December 2021: A Guide To Explore The Gem Of Aegean Sea During Winters!

2. Plaka and Anafiotika

These neighbourhoods are for those who adore small cafes, cute houses, cobbled streets, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee. The two areas are the best examples of ancient architecture and society. You can also visit the Cine Paris at night for outdoor movie screenings. They’re one of the best places in Athens without any doubt.

Location: between Acropolis and Ermous Street

3. Syntagma Square

One of the many things to see in Athens is the Parliament building and the upscale market nearby. Syntagma Square is only accessible on foot and is a lovely place to visit. It is also the hub of all events hosted on public holidays and festivals. If you’re keen on shopping, you must visit the posh boutiques in the nearby market. Another thing which you must see while you’re at the square is the changing of guards ceremony.

Location: Syntagmatos, Athens Timing: open the entire day Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Mykonos For An Ideal Vacation In The Picturesque Island Of Greece!

4. Temple of Hephaestus

The temple is one of the beautiful places in Athens which have been preserved for decades. Temple of Hephaestus is dedicated to the Greek God of volcanoes, fire, and blacksmiths. It is one of the very few Greek temples which have been entirely preserved till date. While you’re at the temple, you must also visit the Ancient Agora of Athens and Stoa of Attalos.

Location: northwest of Acropolis Timing: 8 am to 7 pm, open on all days Entry Fee: Free

5. Benaki Museum

This happens to be one of the top places of interest in Athens. The museum houses art and other collectives from the Greek civilisation. These valuables date back to the prehistoric times. They also have a collection of modern pieces of art. One can easily see the way Greeks transitioned and how their society evolved.

Location: 138 Pireos Street Timing: 10 am to 6 pm (Thursday and Sunday), 10 am to 10 pm (Friday and Saturday) Entry Fee: € 7 (adults), € 5 (students and senior citizens)

Suggested Read: 15 Greek Islands That Must Figure In Your Greece Travel Itinerary

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A trip to this beautiful seaside town is nothing less than a dream. The port town of Athens is known for its charming restaurants, Nautical Museum, Piraeus Archaeological Museum, and the seaside taverns. No doubt, it is one of the top places to visit in Athens. If you’re in Athens, you must stop by at Piraeus and spend at least one day relaxing by the shore and treating yourself to some great food.

Location: 16, Akti Koumoundourou 24, Pireas 185 33, Greece

7. Temple of Olympian Zeus

One of the best places in Athens and a star of its time, Temple of Olympian Zeus is as mighty as the God himself. Out of the hundred might columns, only 15 remain intact today but the glory is still as it was. Another major attraction near the temple are the Roman baths and the ruins of Themistokles’ wall.

Location: City Centre, Athens Gate Timing: Summers – 8 am to 7:30 pm, open on all days Winters – 8:30 am to 3 pm, open on all days Entry Fee: € 2

Suggested Read: 12 Best Resorts In Greece That Make You Feel Like Royalty

8. Panaghia Kapnikaria Church

It is one of the most beautiful places to see in Athens. The Church stands tall in Ermous Street. It is one of the very few 11th century churches which are still intact. The walls and ceiling of the Church are adorned with several paintings from various eras. The art pieces are so unique that the Church could qualify as an art museum. If you’re someone who appreciates architecture, you must visit this Church.

Location: Ermou Street Timing: 7 am till 9 pm, open on all days Entry Fee: Free

9. Panathenaic Stadium

Every Athens sightseeing is incomplete without a day trip to the Olympic stadium. The present stadium is an updated replica of the original 1896 stadium. The original Panathenaic Stadium was constructed in 335 BC under the reign of Herodes Atticus. Olympics as a competition originated in this land and one shouldn’t miss the opportunity to know more about the grand event.

Location: Ardettos Hill Timing: 8 am to 7 pm, open on all days Entry Fee: € 5 (adults), € 2.50 (students and senior citizens)

Suggested Read: 10 Hotels in Greece That Are A Treat For The Senses!

10. Athens Riviera

Athens tourism isn’t just famous for old buildings, temples and a stadium. It is also very famous for its scenic beaches, clear waters and the golden sand. You can easily take a tram or taxi to one of the beaches in Athens and have a day off. The beaches are for people who would like to enjoy sunbathing or have a picnic. You can go swim in the sea as the water currents are usually low. It would be unfair to end this wonderful vacation without spending a day at the beach.

Further Read: A Honeymoon In Greece Is All You Need For A Perfect Beginning Of Your Married Life

This is a concise list to help you decide what places to visit in Athens. So, don’t think too much, plan your trip to Greece and make the most memorable holiday of your life!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Athens

What should I not miss in Athens?

When in Athens, do not miss visiting these places: 1. Acropolis 2. Panathenaic Stadium 3. Ancient Agora 4. The National Archaeological Museum

What to do in Athens in 2 days?

There are plenty of things to do in Athens in 2 days like you could go street dancing and learn Tango. You could take a rejuvenating bath in hammam. Go shopping at Pandrousso Market. Enjoy watching a movie at open arts cinema in Athens. The list goes on.

Where can I go outside Athens?

There are a lot of places that you can explore outside Athens like: 1. The Romantic City of Nafplio 2. The Islands of Aegina, Hydra, and Poros 3. Delphi 4. Meteora 5. Mycenae

How many days do you need in Athens?

You need at least two days in Athens to explore the major attractions and tourist point in Athens. You could ass more days if you wish to explore in depth the culture and lifestyle of this place.

Is Aegina worth visiting?

Aegina is a small island in Greece located just 27 km away from Athens. The history has it that it was conquered by a pirate Barbarossa in 1537 and all the residents of the island were taken as slaves. The remnants of this island are what makes it worth the visit.

Is Athens safe at night?

Kolononaki is the safest neighbourhood in Athens. It has high-end restaurants, cafes, and galleries that you can explore. Metaxourgio is another neighbourhood that is safe to roam around at night in Athens.

Is Athens expensive to visit?

Athens is relatively cheaper than the surrounding islands but not so cheap. However, you will find attractions that you can visit that don’t cost ore or explore the street food scenes away from the tourist spots. This way, you won’t break your bank.

Can you wear shorts in Greece?

You can wear shorts in Greece unless you are visiting a church, monastery or a religious place. Even at the beach, you should wear proper swimsuit. Bathing in shorts is not allowed.

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10 places to visit in mainland Greece

Posted: August 10, 2023 | Last updated: August 10, 2023

The Greek islands and the capital, Athens, are easily the best-known part of the country. And while they’re full of amazing beaches perfect for relaxing and post-card-ready views, Greece’s mainland has plenty waiting to be discovered. Here are my top 10 recommendations.

The Peloponnese Peninsula

This very special part of Greece is one of my absolute favorites. Just a couple of hours from Athens, the peninsula is full of adorable towns like Nafplio, Kalamata, and Pilos. Additionally, many of the beaches rival those of the islands — and don’t tell the Italians, but some of the best gelatos in Europe can be found here!

You may also like: 10 beautiful West Coast road trips

Up north in the mountains is a movie-like part of the country, Meteora. This region is home to 24 monasteries that date back to the 1920s. Carved into the rocks of the mountainside, you can hike from the nearby villages of Kalambaka and Kastraki or drive up and walk between them. Make sure to bring a scarf and long skirt, or be prepared to borrow one before entering!

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Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city is totally worth a visit! In the northeastern corner lies this beautiful city full of history. There are numerous archeological sites, particularly of the Byzantine era, and plenty of museums. Additionally, it’s better situated along the Aegean than Athens, a sunset stroll along the promenade is a must!

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Most of us have heard of Sparta; yes, it is a real place you can visit! This city is full of history and archeological remains just south of the Peloponnese! There’s even a quirky olive oil museum! And just a few miles away, enjoy the UNESCO site, Mystras — some of the best-preserved ruins in the country.

One of the most popular (and easiest) day trips from Athens, Delphi is just a couple of hours by car or bus but feels a world away. The ride will take you through Greek farmland before entering the mountains just before entering the ancient city ruins. Make sure to plan for a full day here, or better yet, stay the night!

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In the lesser-visited northwest corner of Greece lies beautiful Ioannina and the surrounding area. Unlike other places on this list, there aren’t many sites or activities in the city, but it’s nice just to stroll and relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. It also makes a nice stop between Albania and Greece if you’re traveling between the two.

On the Peloponnese Peninsula lies another must-visit, Olympia, the location of the original Olympics. You can tour the Ancient Stadium, temples, and an amazing museum. Next to the site is an adorable village with many amenities, making for a great day!

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Popular with Greeks, Nafpaktos is still relatively unknown to international tourists. This means fewer crowds and a new kind of experience. The relaxed, former Venetian town is similar to Nafplio on the Peloponnese but with a less hectic vibe. Above the town, there’s also an incredible castle you can’t miss!

Mani Peninsula

On the southernmost tip of Greece lies the Mani Peninsula, home to undiscovered beaches and mostly empty villages that cling to the cliff sides. Rent a car to follow the meandering roads and enjoy the rugged landscape.

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Corinth Canal

On the way to both the Peloponnese and Mani Peninsulas from Athens, you’ll drive by the canal that links the Ionian and the Aegean Seas. An important accomplishment when it first opened 130 years ago, it forever changed maritime navigation in the area. Today, you can pull over, watch boats pass through the narrow passage, and marvel at the centuries-old formation that still holds up.

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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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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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10 Best Places To Visit In Greece For Your Next Holiday

With ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, mouth watering food, and welcoming locals, greece offers a memorable and fulfilling vacation experience for travellers.

Greece is an exceptional holiday destination known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, vibrant islands, and warm hospitality. With ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, mouthwatering food, and welcoming locals, Greece offers a memorable and fulfilling vacation experience for travellers of all tastes and preferences. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Greece, each offering unique charm and beauty, ready to captivate your senses and create lasting memories.

1. Santorini

Santorini, a gem in the Cyclades, boasts iconic white houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning landscapes. Its crescent shape offers breathtaking sunset views, thrilling caldera hikes, and visits to clifftop wineries. The island’s charm and romance are unmatched despite its volcanic beaches, drawing honeymooners worldwide. Stemming from a historic eruption, Santorini’s moon shape and active volcanoes add to its allure, creating an unforgettable destination.

Athens, Greece’s historic capital, is a city that seamlessly blends ancient heritage with modern vibrance. From the iconic Acropolis to the bustling streets of Plaka, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore the city’s diverse shopping scene, immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife, or delve into its rich cultural heritage. As a transportation hub, Athens is the gateway to the Greek islands, offering a convenient and exciting way to explore the country. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or a party animal, Athens has something to offer everyone, making it a must-visit destination for every traveller to Greece.

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Mykonos, known as the “Island of the Winds,” is a picturesque blend of traditional appeal and lively nightlife in the Aegean Sea. Famous for its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and iconic windmills, it offers beautiful beaches catering to various preferences, from lively party hubs to tranquil retreats. Renowned for its legendary nightlife, Mykonos attracts party enthusiasts worldwide to its beach clubs and bars. Visitors can also explore cultural sites like the Archaeological Museum and the Panagia Paraportiani church. With its stunning scenery and vibrant ambience, Mykonos promises an unforgettable retreat in the Cyclades.

4. Zakynthos

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a stunning Greek island famous for its white cliffs, scenic landscapes, and dreamy villages. It’s home to the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles and boasts attractions like the iconic Navagio beach. With a blend of nature and commercialisation, Zakynthos offers beautiful villages, secluded beaches, mysterious caves, and wildlife viewing sites like Marine National Park and Askos Stone Park. These highlights make Zakynthos one of the must-visit places in Greece.

Crete, the largest Greek island, boasts stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and a rich history. Its diverse terrain includes mountains, gorges, and lakes, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and scuba diving. Crete is steeped in history, with archaeological sites, monasteries, and palaces dating back centuries. Divided into four main areas, each with its unique charm, Crete offers something for every traveller, from bustling cities like Heraklion to picturesque towns like Chania and Rethymnon. Crete has it all, whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife or tranquil seclusion.

Corfu, nestled in northwest Greece near Albania, boasts beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich heritage. Famous for family vacations and adventure, it offers diverse activities like diving, hiking, and historical exploration. Its main town, Corfu town, blends old-world charm with modern convenience, featuring a UNESCO-listed Old Town. From rugged mountains in the north to sandy shores in the south, Corfu’s varied terrain and traditional villages charm visitors. Its strategic location also makes it a hub for exploring the western Greek islands and neighbouring Albania and Italy.

7. Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, boasts breathtaking coastlines, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant events. Its waterfront promenade, bustling neighbourhoods, and Byzantine landmarks offer a unique blend of modernity and history. With a lively nightlife and sandy islets, it’s a dynamic destination for exploration and relaxation.

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, is a serene haven between Santorini and Mykonos. With its long sandy beaches, charming villages, and ancient ruins, it offers a tranquil retreat away from the crowds of other Greek islands. Accessible by air or ferry from Athens, Naxos welcomes visitors with its natural beauty and rich history.

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9. Rhodes Island

Rhodes, also known as Rodos, is the fourth largest island in Greece. It is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delectable cuisine. Its landscape features picturesque countryside, charming villages, and majestic castles. Adventure seekers can explore hiking trails and dive into ancient shipwrecks. With nearly 300 days of sunshine, Rhodes offers safe and family-friendly beaches, perfect for unforgettable vacations. From dining on local cuisine to exploring ancient sites, Rhodes promises a memorable Greek island experience.

Paros, nestled in the Cyclades, is renowned for its pristine whitewashed towns, expansive beaches, and vibrant nightlife. With a coastline stretching 120 km, it offers a blend of bustling cities like Parikia and Naoussa, known for their lively atmosphere, and tranquil countryside retreats in Lefkes and Marpissa. Watersports enthusiasts flock to its shores for activities like windsurfing and kayaking, while hiking trails offer scenic vistas. Boat trips to neighbouring islands like Antiparos add to the island’s allure, making Paros a perfect Greek island escape.

With so many incredible places to visit in Greece, travellers are spoiled for choice. From the beautiful Santorini sunsets to Athens’ ancient wonders, Zakynthos’s pristine beaches, to Crete’s rugged landscapes, Greece offers diverse experiences with rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. 

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10 Best Places to Visit in Greece in May 2024

Greece, a land of ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and delicious food, is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. With its rich history and diverse landscape, Greece offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Greece in May 2024, here are 10 of the best places to visit.

May is a great time to visit Greece, as the weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. The crowds are also smaller than in the summer months, so you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Greece without having to deal with large crowds. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, Greece has something to offer everyone.

Here are the 10 best places to visit in Greece in May 2024:

Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city is home to a number of ancient ruins, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Zeus. Athens is also a great place to shop, dine, and experience Greek culture.

Must-see attractions in Athens:

• The Acropolis
• The Parthenon
• The Temple of Zeus
• The Monastiraki Flea Market

Santorini is a beautiful island in the Aegean Sea. The island is known for its stunning caldera, which was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Santorini is also a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and wine lovers.

Must-see attractions in Santorini:

• The caldera
• The village of Oia
• The ancient city of Akrotiri
• The Red Beach
• The White Beach

Mykonos is a cosmopolitan island in the Aegean Sea. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts. Mykonos is also a popular destination for gay and lesbian travelers.

Must-see attractions in Mykonos:

• The beaches
• The town of Mykonos
• The windmills
• The Little Venice
• The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos

Crete is the largest island in Greece. The island is home to a diverse landscape, including mountains, beaches, and forests. Crete is also home to a number of ancient ruins, including the Palace of Knossos, the Minoan civilization.

Must-see attractions in Crete:

• The Palace of Knossos
• The Samaria Gorge
• The Venetian Fortress of Rethymno
• The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

Rhodes is an island in the Dodecanese archipelago. The island is known for its medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rhodes is also a popular destination for beachgoers, hikers, and bikers.

Must-see attractions in Rhodes:

• The Old Town
• The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
• The Street of the Knights
• The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes

Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and Venetian architecture. Corfu is also a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and sailors.

Must-see attractions in Corfu:

• The Palace of St. Michael and St. George
• The Kanoni viewpoint
• The Corfu Trail

Nafplio is a beautiful town in the Peloponnese region of Greece. The town is known for its Venetian architecture, picturesque harbor, and beautiful beaches. Nafplio is also a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and sailors.

Must-see attractions in Nafplio:

• The Bourtzi fortress
• The Palamidi fortress
• The Nafplio Archaeological Museum

Olympia is an ancient site in the Peloponnese region of Greece. The site is home to the ruins of the ancient Olympic Games, which were held every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD. Olympia is also a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and sailors.

Must-see attractions in Olympia:

• The ruins of the ancient Olympic Games
• The Temple of Hera
• The Archaeological Museum of Olympia

Delphi is an ancient site in the Central Greece region of Greece. The site is home to the ruins of the ancient Oracle of Delphi, which was one of the most important religious sites in the ancient world. Delphi is also a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and sailors.

Must-see attractions in Delphi:

• The ruins of the ancient Oracle of Delphi
• The Temple of Apollo
• The Treasury of the Athenians
• The Archaeological Museum of Delphi

Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Thessaly region of Greece. The site is home to a number of monasteries that are built on top of towering rock formations. Meteora is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and climbers.

Must-see attractions in Meteora:

• The monasteries
• The Grand Meteora Monastery
• The Varlaam Monastery
• The Rousanou Monastery
• The Archaeological Museum of Meteora

Greece is a country with a rich and diverse culture. The country’s culture has been influenced by a number of different factors, including its geography, history, and religion. Greek culture is characterized by its love of food, music, dance, and theater. The country is also home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Acropolis of Athens, the Old Town of Rhodes, and the Meteora monasteries.

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons, which are April-May and September-October. The weather during these months is mild and sunny, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. However, if you’re looking for the warmest weather, the best time to visit Greece is during the summer months, which are June-August.

Nearby Transportation

Greece is a well-connected country, and there are a number of different ways to get around. The most popular way to get around Greece is by ferry. Ferries connect the mainland to the islands, and they are a relatively inexpensive and convenient way to travel. You can also get around Greece by bus, train, or plane. Athens International Airport (ATH) is the main airport in Greece, and it is well-connected to other airports in Europe and around the world.

Greek food is delicious and healthy. The country’s cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Some of the most popular Greek dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, and pastitsio. Greece is also known for its excellent wines.

Best Hotels

There are a number of great hotels in Greece. Some of the best hotels in Athens include the Hotel Grande Bretagne, the King George Palace, and the AthensWas Hotel. Some of the best hotels in Santorini include the Katikies Hotel, the Grace Santorini, and the Perivolas Hotel. Some of the best hotels in Mykonos include the Cavo Tagoo Mykonos, the Santa Marina, and the Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort.

Greece is a beautiful and diverse country with something to offer everyone. Whether you

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