30 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece)

Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is the iconic symbol of Athens and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. You can spend hours wandering the ruins and admiring the views of Athens from the hill. The highlight is, of course, the Parthenon, which is truly awe-inspiring up close. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as it can get hot and crowded.

See the Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is an impressive ancient temple located just a short walk from the Acropolis. The temple features massive columns that will leave you in awe. While the temple is not as well-preserved as some other ancient sites in Athens, it is still a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history.

Explore the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens, and it remains an important site to this day. You can wander the ruins and imagine what life was like in ancient times. Highlights include the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Temple of Apollo Patroos. Don’t miss the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which features artifacts from the site.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts from throughout Greece, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon. Make sure to allocate plenty of time to explore the museum, as there is a lot to see.

Stroll through Plaka

Plaka is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Athens. The narrow, winding streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and the atmosphere is lively and friendly. Make sure to explore the side streets and alleyways, as this is where you will find some of the best hidden gems.

Shop at Monastiraki Flea Market

Monastiraki Flea Market is a bustling market that sells everything from antique furniture to handmade jewelry. The market is a great place to browse and people-watch, and you can often find unique souvenirs to take home. Make sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best prices.

Visit the chic neighborhood of Kolonaki

Kolonaki is a trendy, upscale neighborhood that is home to some of the best high-end boutiques and restaurants in Athens. Even if you can’t afford to shop, it’s worth a visit just to soak up the atmosphere and people-watch. Make sure to stop for a coffee or a glass of wine at one of the chic cafes.

Explore the bohemian district of Exarcheia

Exarcheia is a quirky, bohemian district that is home to artists, students, and activists. The neighborhood is known for its street art and graffiti, and you can spend hours wandering the streets and admiring the artwork. Make sure to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Attend a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient amphitheater located on the slope of the Acropolis. The theater is still used for performances today, and it’s a unique and unforgettable experience to see a show in such a historic venue. Make sure to book tickets in advance, as performances often sell out.

Visit the Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art is a small but fascinating museum that features artifacts from the Cycladic islands. The highlight of the museum is the collection of ancient figurines, which are beautifully crafted and surprisingly modern in appearance. Make sure to allocate plenty of time to explore the museum and learn

See the Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is one of the best museums in Athens, with a wide-ranging collection of Greek art and artifacts. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building and features exhibits ranging from ancient pottery to contemporary art. Make sure to check out the rooftop cafe, which has stunning views of Athens.

Visit the Byzantine and Christian Museum

The Byzantine and Christian Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Byzantine art and culture. The museum features an extensive collection of religious artifacts, including icons, mosaics, and manuscripts. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens, which are a peaceful oasis in the heart of Athens.

Eat at a traditional taverna

Eating at a traditional taverna is a must-do when visiting Athens. These family-run restaurants serve classic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki, and are a great way to experience local culture. Make sure to try the house wine, which is often made by the restaurant owner’s family.

Visit the Central Market

The Central Market is a bustling market located in the heart of Athens, where you can find everything from fresh produce to local cheeses and olives. The market is a great place to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Athens, and to sample some of the best local food.

Take a food tour

Taking a food tour is a great way to explore Athens’ culinary scene and learn about local food culture. A knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the best local eateries and help you discover new flavors and dishes. Make sure to come hungry!

Attend a wine tasting

Attica is known for its wine, and there are many wineries located just a short drive from Athens. Taking a wine tasting tour is a great way to explore the region’s vineyards and sample some of the best local wines.

Dance at a club in Gazi

Gazi is a trendy neighborhood in Athens that is known for its nightlife. There are many clubs and bars located in the area, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be dancing the night away!

Have a drink in Psirri

Psirri is another trendy neighborhood in Athens that is home to many bars and cafes. The neighborhood has a relaxed, bohemian vibe and is a great place to meet locals and soak up the atmosphere.

Listen to live music in Exarcheia

Exarcheia is a great place to experience Athens’ music scene. There are many small venues and bars located in the neighborhood that host live music, ranging from traditional Greek music to indie rock and jazz.

See a movie at an outdoor cinema

Athens is known for its open-air cinemas, which are a great way to enjoy a movie on a warm summer evening. There are many cinemas located throughout the city, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.

Hike up Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus is a hill located in the center of Athens that offers stunning views of the city. You can hike up the hill or take a funicular to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Athens.

Walk along the Athens Riviera

The Athens Riviera is a scenic stretch of coastline south of Athens that is dotted with beautiful beaches, cafes, and restaurants. You can take a leisurely stroll along the coast or rent a bike to explore the area.

Visit the National Garden

The National Garden is a beautiful green space located in the heart of Athens. The garden is home to many species of plants and animals, as well as several historic buildings and monuments.

Take a day trip to nearby beaches

Athens is surrounded by beautiful beaches, and there are many options for a day trip. Some of the most popular beaches include Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, and Glyfada. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters, soak up the sun, and enjoy delicious seafood at one of the many beachside tavernas.

Visit the Parliament Building

The Parliament Building is located in Syntagma Square and is the center of Greek politics. You can watch the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour, or take a tour of the building to learn more about Greek democracy.

See the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a modern arts and culture center located on the outskirts of Athens. The center features a stunning building designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, as well as a park and outdoor performance space.

Explore the Athens Technopolis

The Athens Technopolis is a former gasworks that has been transformed into a cultural center. The center hosts exhibitions, events, and performances, and is a great place to explore modern Greek culture.

Visit the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art

The Benaki Museum of Islamic Art is a hidden gem in Athens, featuring a collection of Islamic art from around the world. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building and features exhibits ranging from textiles to ceramics.

Take a street art tour

Athens is known for its vibrant street art scene, and taking a street art tour is a great way to explore the city’s artistic side. A knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the best murals and graffiti in the city and help you understand the cultural and political significance of the art.

Visit the Museum of Greek Popular Musical Instruments

The Museum of Greek Popular Musical Instruments is a unique museum that features a collection of traditional musical instruments from throughout Greece. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building and features exhibits ranging from bagpipes to lyres.

In conclusion, Athens is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in ancient history, modern culture, food, nightlife, or the outdoors, Athens has it all. With so many things to do and see, it’s no wonder that Athens is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Athens today!

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, if you don’t mind the heat and crowds, summer is also a great time to visit.

What should I wear when visiting Athens?

It’s best to dress in comfortable, casual clothing when visiting Athens, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as there are many hills and cobblestone streets.

How can I get around Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and trams. Taxis are also widely available, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

What is the local currency in Athens?

The local currency in Athens is the Euro.

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Like any big city, Athens has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, as long as you take basic precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night, Athens is generally considered safe for tourists.