admin Athens, Greece, is a city where ancient history and modern culture seamlessly blend to create a truly unforgettable travel experience. Known as the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is packed with iconic landmarks, archaeological sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich traditions. Whether you’re strolling through ancient ruins, indulging in mouthwatering Greek cuisine, or exploring hidden local gems, Athens has something for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the top things to do in Athens, Greece, helping you uncover the city’s must-see attractions and unique experiences.
Things to Do in Athens Greece
- Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon
The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens. Sitting atop a hill, it has been the heart of the city for over 2,500 years. The crown jewel of the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Visitors can wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site and feel the presence of ancient Greek civilization.
The Acropolis Museum, located nearby, is also worth visiting. It houses many of the original artifacts from the site and provides insight into the architectural achievements of ancient Greece. Visiting the Acropolis early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended to avoid the heat and crowds. The sweeping views of Athens from the top make the climb well worth it.
- Explore the Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was once the heart of public life in Athens. It served as the marketplace, civic center, and social hub during the height of ancient Greece. Walking through the ruins of the Agora gives you a sense of how the Athenians lived, traded, and debated.
The well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, located within the Agora, is one of the highlights. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece and provides a striking glimpse into ancient architecture. The Stoa of Attalos, which has been reconstructed, houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, showcasing various relics from the site.
- Stroll Through Plaka
Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and flowering bougainvillea make it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Plaka is packed with traditional tavernas, cafes, and souvenir shops, making it a lively yet relaxing area to explore.
The neighborhood is also home to several small museums, including the Museum of Greek Folk Art and the Jewish Museum of Greece. Plaka’s ambiance in the evening is magical, with the Acropolis illuminated in the background and live music floating out of local restaurants. It’s a great spot for both history lovers and those seeking a quintessential Greek experience.
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum
For anyone interested in ancient Greek history, the National Archaeological Museum is a must-see. It houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Greek antiquities, spanning over several millennia of history. From Mycenaean gold to impressive sculptures, the museum is a treasure trove of ancient art and artifacts.
Some of the highlights include the Mask of Agamemnon, exquisite pottery, and well-preserved frescoes from Santorini. The museum offers a deep dive into the fascinating history of Greece and helps you appreciate the cultural depth of the city.
- Climb Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens and offers panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea. Visitors can either hike or take a funicular to the top. The climb might be a bit challenging, but the breathtaking views at the summit make it a rewarding experience.
At the top, you’ll find the small white chapel of St. George, a perfect place to take photos. If you visit at sunset, you can witness one of the best views in the city as the lights of Athens start to twinkle below. There’s also a cafe at the top where you can relax and soak in the scenery.
- Walk Through Monastiraki Square
Monastiraki Square is a bustling part of central Athens. Known for its flea market, it’s the perfect place to hunt for souvenirs, antiques, and unique items. The square is lively, packed with locals and tourists alike, and surrounded by a mix of old churches, mosques, and neoclassical buildings.
The nearby streets are filled with shops selling everything from leather goods to handmade jewelry. It’s also a great spot to sample some local street food, like souvlaki or loukoumades (Greek donuts). With its vibrant energy, Monastiraki Square gives you a feel for modern Athenian life, mixed with a rich historical backdrop.
- Tour the Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium is a must-see for sports lovers and history enthusiasts. Built entirely of marble, this ancient stadium was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It was originally constructed in the 4th century BCE and has been used for various athletic events throughout history.
Visitors can walk through the stadium and even take a lap around the track. There’s a small museum inside showcasing Olympic memorabilia and a chance to learn more about the stadium’s role in Greek sports history. The size and scale of the Panathenaic Stadium are truly impressive, making it a unique stop in Athens.
- Explore the National Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of Athens, the National Gardens are the perfect retreat. Located behind the Greek Parliament, the gardens offer a lush, green oasis in the heart of the city. They’re filled with palm trees, ancient ruins, and various statues.
The National Gardens are great for a relaxing walk or a quiet picnic. There’s also a small zoo and a playground, making it a nice spot for families. With winding pathways and shaded areas, it’s a lovely escape from the summer heat.
- Wander Through the Museum of Cycladic Art
The Museum of Cycladic Art houses an incredible collection of ancient Cycladic art and artifacts from the islands of the Aegean Sea. Its extensive range of marble figurines is one of the highlights. These minimalist sculptures, created over 5,000 years ago, are stunning in their simplicity and beauty.
The museum also features artifacts from other periods of ancient Greece, making it an essential stop for art lovers. Its modern design and well-organized exhibits make for an engaging and educational visit.
- Enjoy a Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon
Located just outside Athens at Cape Sounion, the Temple of Poseidon is a stunning ancient site with spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. Built in the 5th century BCE, this temple is dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon. The temple’s cliffside location offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in Greece.
A day trip to the Temple of Poseidon is a great way to combine sightseeing with a relaxing seaside escape. As the sun sets, the view from the temple is unforgettable, with the golden light shimmering on the sea below.
- Explore the Benaki Museum
The Benaki Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, offering an extensive collection of Greek art, history, and culture. The museum spans ancient Greece to the modern era, providing a comprehensive overview of the country’s rich history.
The exhibits include Byzantine icons, Ottoman artifacts, modern Greek art, and traditional costumes. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, and it also has a lovely rooftop cafe offering views of Athens. If you’re interested in Greek culture beyond antiquity, the Benaki Museum is a great stop to broaden your understanding of the country.
- Visit the Byzantine and Christian Museum
Athens is not only known for its ancient Greek history but also for its deep Byzantine heritage. The Byzantine and Christian Museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, frescoes, and icons from the Byzantine period.
The museum provides insight into how Christianity shaped Greek society after the fall of the Roman Empire. It’s a fascinating journey through centuries of religious art and architecture, showing how the faith influenced every aspect of life during that era. The well-curated exhibits and peaceful surroundings make it a great place to explore for history enthusiasts.
- Take a Day Trip to Hydra Island
Hydra is a beautiful, car-free island that’s just a two-hour ferry ride from Athens. It’s an ideal destination for a day trip, offering a quiet escape from the busy city. The island’s picturesque harbor, with its stone mansions and winding alleys, has inspired many artists and writers over the years.
Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or hike up to explore the island’s charming villages. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood, making Hydra a perfect place for a relaxed, scenic getaway.
- Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
For a taste of modern Athens, visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), a cutting-edge architectural complex that houses the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. The SNFCC is located in a large park, offering green spaces, walking paths, and a canal for outdoor activities.
The cultural center hosts various events, including concerts, exhibitions, and performances, making it a dynamic hub for art and culture. It’s also an excellent place for a relaxing afternoon, with its expansive park offering great views of the sea and the Acropolis in the distance.
- Discover Anafiotika
Anafiotika is a hidden gem in the heart of Athens. This small neighborhood, located just below the Acropolis, feels like a Cycladic village in the middle of the city. The whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and bright blue doors are reminiscent of the islands in the Aegean Sea.
It’s a peaceful area that offers a break from the hustle of central Athens. Walking through Anafiotika feels like stepping back in time, and it’s a great place to take photos, explore, and experience a quieter side of the city.
- Marvel at the Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus, located near the Acropolis, was once the largest temple in ancient Greece. Although much of the temple is now in ruins, the remaining columns give visitors an idea of its original grandeur. Construction on the temple began in the 6th century BCE but wasn’t completed until the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE.
The sheer scale of the temple is impressive, and standing next to the towering columns gives you a sense of the power and ambition of ancient Athens. It’s also an easy stop on the way to or from other nearby sites, such as the Acropolis or the Arch of Hadrian.
- Take a Walk Around Filopappou Hill
Filopappou Hill offers one of the best views of the Acropolis and the city of Athens. It’s a peaceful and green area, ideal for a relaxing walk or a picnic. The hill is also home to the Monument of Philopappos, an ancient Roman senator, and a few other archaeological sites.
From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding area, including the Saronic Gulf. It’s a great place to escape the crowds, enjoy nature, and take in the beauty of Athens from a different perspective.
- Go Shopping at Ermou Street
Ermou Street is Athens’ main shopping street, connecting Syntagma Square with Monastiraki Square. It’s one of the busiest commercial areas in the city, packed with a wide variety of shops, from international brands to local boutiques.
Whether you’re looking for fashion, jewelry, or souvenirs, Ermou has something for everyone. It’s also a lively area to people-watch, with street performers and cafes lining the pedestrianized street. Even if shopping isn’t your priority, walking down Ermou gives you a feel for the vibrant energy of modern Athens.
- Visit the Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds
The Roman Agora, built in the 1st century BCE, is a fascinating historical site located near the Acropolis. It served as the marketplace during Roman rule and is home to several interesting ruins, including the Gate of Athena Archegetis and the Tower of the Winds.
The Tower of the Winds, an ancient clock tower, is particularly unique. It was designed to measure time, predict the weather, and function as a sundial. Exploring the Roman Agora offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to the Ancient Agora and provides a glimpse into Athens’ Roman past.
- Watch a Show at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient stone theater located on the southern slopes of the Acropolis. It was built in 161 AD by the Roman senator Herodes Atticus and is still used today for performances, particularly during the Athens and Epidaurus Festival in the summer.
Watching a show here is a magical experience, as the theater provides breathtaking views of the Acropolis lit up at night. The acoustics are excellent, and attending a concert or play in this historic venue adds an unforgettable touch to any trip to Athens.
- Visit the Hellenic Parliament and Watch the Changing of the Guard
Located in Syntagma Square, the Hellenic Parliament is housed in the Old Royal Palace, an impressive neoclassical building. Every hour, you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard by the Evzones, soldiers dressed in traditional uniforms, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament.
The larger Sunday ceremony at 11:00 AM is especially elaborate, with a full parade of soldiers and a marching band. The changing of the guard is a great way to witness Greek tradition and honor the country’s history, making it a unique and free experience in Athens.
- Explore Psiri Neighborhood
Psiri is one of the trendiest and most vibrant neighborhoods in Athens. Known for its nightlife, street art, and diverse range of restaurants, it has become a hub for both locals and visitors looking for an authentic urban experience. By day, Psiri is filled with cafes, small shops, and art galleries. By night, it transforms into a lively area with bustling bars and live music venues, particularly featuring rembetiko, traditional Greek music.
The area’s street art adds a modern twist to the ancient city, offering plenty of Instagram-worthy spots. If you’re seeking a bohemian vibe and a taste of Athenian creativity, Psiri is the place to go.
- Relax at Lake Vouliagmeni
Lake Vouliagmeni is a hidden natural gem located about 20 km south of Athens. This saltwater lake, nestled in a limestone crater, is known for its mineral-rich waters, which maintain a constant temperature year-round and are believed to have therapeutic properties.
The lake is a perfect escape from the city, offering opportunities for swimming and relaxation in a serene environment. Visitors can also enjoy spa services, sunbathe, or dine at the lakeside cafes. Lake Vouliagmeni’s calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal destination for a peaceful afternoon retreat.
- Tour the Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions in Athens is a fun, interactive experience that’s great for visitors of all ages. This modern museum offers mind-bending optical illusions, 3D installations, and puzzling exhibits that will challenge your perception.
From rooms that distort size and gravity to intricate holograms and infinity tunnels, the Museum of Illusions provides a unique and entertaining way to spend a few hours in the city. It’s an especially enjoyable stop for families or anyone interested in quirky, Instagrammable experiences.
- Hike to the Pnyx
The Pnyx is an ancient site located west of the Acropolis, and it holds great historical significance. It was here that ancient Athenians gathered for political meetings, and it is considered the birthplace of democracy. The site is a short hike and offers stunning views of the Acropolis and the city below.
Visiting the Pnyx gives you a chance to reflect on the democratic roots of modern society while enjoying a peaceful, less-visited area of Athens. The nearby Hill of the Muses is also worth exploring for more panoramic views and tranquil paths.
- Visit the Kerameikos Cemetery and Museum
Kerameikos is an ancient cemetery located just outside the walls of ancient Athens. It was the main burial site for Athenian citizens, soldiers, and statesmen. Walking through the area, you can see remnants of ancient tombstones, sculptures, and ruins that provide insight into Athenian funerary practices.
The adjacent museum houses many of the artifacts found in the area, including pottery, grave markers, and statues. The cemetery and museum are quiet, uncrowded spots that offer a fascinating look at ancient Greek life and death customs.
- Discover the Numismatic Museum of Athens
The Numismatic Museum, housed in the beautiful Iliou Melathron mansion (the former residence of the famous archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann), is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of coins. The museum’s collection spans from ancient Greece to modern times, showcasing rare coins, medals, and currency-related artifacts.
Even if you’re not a coin enthusiast, the exhibits provide an interesting look at the history of trade, economy, and daily life in Greece. The mansion itself is also a highlight, with its ornate interior and beautiful gardens.
- Take a Street Art Tour
Athens has a vibrant street art scene, and taking a guided tour is a great way to explore the city’s hidden artistic gems. The walls of neighborhoods like Psiri, Exarchia, and Metaxourgeio are covered in colorful murals, graffiti, and politically charged messages.
A street art tour will give you insight into modern Athenian culture and the social issues that inspire many of the artists. It’s also an excellent opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods while learning about the city’s contemporary creative expression.
- Walk Along the Dionysiou Areopagitou Street
Dionysiou Areopagitou Street is one of the most scenic pedestrian streets in Athens. It runs along the southern slopes of the Acropolis and connects many of the city’s most important historical sites, including the Acropolis Museum, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
The wide, marble-paved street is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially in the late afternoon when the light softens and the Acropolis glows in the distance. There are also plenty of street performers, artists, and vendors along the way, making it a lively and culturally rich walk.
- Savor Greek Cuisine at a Cooking Class
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is through food, and taking a Greek cooking class is a fun, hands-on way to do so. Various cooking schools in Athens offer classes where participants can learn to make traditional dishes such as moussaka, tzatziki, spanakopita (spinach pie), and baklava.
These classes often take place in charming local kitchens or restaurants and include a market visit to source fresh ingredients. At the end of the class, you can sit down and enjoy the meal you’ve prepared, along with a glass of local wine. It’s a delicious way to dive deeper into Greek culinary traditions.
Conclusion
Athens is more than just a city of ancient ruins—it’s a destination where history comes alive and modern life thrives in every corner. Whether you’re marveling at the Acropolis, getting lost in charming neighborhoods, or enjoying local food and culture, the city offers endless opportunities to explore and discover. From iconic historical sites to hidden gems, this list of things to do in Athens, Greece will help you make the most of your visit. No matter your interests, Athens promises a journey filled with incredible sights, rich culture, and lasting memories.
