What to do in Athens, Greece: Top attractions & insider tips

For us, Athens is the city where we grew up, so we will strive to be as objective and clear as possible. Athens is a city full of options for all tastes and moods. Every visitor, including Athenians, has plenty of options that will meet their expectations.

Athens is the world’s oldest capital, and its significant findings and history have influenced the world through its civilization and glory. Beyond the Acropolis and the museums, where you will experience moments of Ancient Athens, the modern city also offers many other interesting experiences. Small, picturesque neighbourhoods with traditional shops and taverns, vibrant nightlife, and, generally, their rhythms will make you want to visit again and again.

Typically, tourists use Athens as a transit point to a Greek island, staying for just one or two days. But what to do in Athens is a question with no short answer, the things to see and experience are so many that two days are barely enough. The following guide will help you plan your visit to Athens and make the most of every moment, from the iconic Acropolis to the hidden gems that only locals know.

The Acropolis

When you think of Athens, you cannot help but think of the Acropolis, Greece’s most important historical landmark. It rises in the center of the city as an imposing hill, on which the Parthenon stands, along with many other historical monuments. This is the period of ancient Greece, when philosophers challenged the universe, democracy and freedom of speech were born, beautiful statues and art were created, and temples were built to honour our gods.

In the ancient site of the Acropolis, you will find, beyond the Parthenon, the most famous temple, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the temple of Athena. We recommend planning your tour before visiting the venue to avoid ticket queues. Many guided tours lead to the Acropolis and provide all the information you need. Book guided Acropolis tours on GetYourGuide.

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Acropolis Museum

A modern museum that opened in 2009 and presents thousands of objects discovered at the Archaeological Site of the Acropolis to the public. Very close to the Acropolis entrance, the Museum is strategically oriented to offer a continuous view of the Parthenon. It is built on ancient ruins, and much of the ground floor consists of glass slabs that reveal the ancient finds below.

With its three levels, visitors are guided through those centuries. At the first level are the ancient discoveries on the Acropolis. On the first floor, visitors encounter exhibits from the Ancient Acropolis. At the same time, the western section features sculptures from the temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, as well as architectural elements from the Propylaea. The latter, with their imposing presence, emphasize the sanctity and splendor of the Acropolis’s sacred rock. The next floor is dedicated exclusively to the Parthenon frieze and gables, in a room with the same dimensions, column spacing, and orientation as the Parthenon. The well-known Ionic and Doric orders are prevalent in architecture and were later adopted by many other architects worldwide.

The ticket price is 5€ in winter and 10€ in summer. Because the ticket issuance queue can be long, you can get yours in advance and skip the line. You can also arrange a guided tour to learn more about the Acropolis Museum’s exhibits and ancient Greek life. For tickets and more info, visit the Acropolis Museum’s official website.

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Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus

The Ancient Agora is located between Monastiraki and the base of the Acropolis. In ancient times, this area was the city’s market and the gathering place for Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and many other ancient Greeks. It is easy to distinguish the archaeological sites, streets, and squares that house ruins from that period, as well as the most important temples, such as the Temple of Hephaestus.

The Temple of Hephaestus was built in the 5th century BC to honour the god of fire and metallurgy. It is one of the best-preserved and most impressive temples in Athens and is worth visiting. Guided tours are also available and provide additional information about the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus. Book guided Ancient Agora tours on GetYourGuide.

Areios Pagos Hill

To enjoy the best view of the Acropolis, we recommend climbing Areios Pagos. It’s located northwest of the Acropolis. As soon as you reach the top, you will be able to see the port of Piraeus, the Acropolis, and the northern district of Athens. Access to the space is relatively limited and slippery, so we recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes to enjoy the view.

The legend says that the god of war, Ares, killed the son of the sea god Poseidon, Alirrothios, and that the place was used as the gods’ court in mythic times.

For us, this hill is the perfect end to the day, where, watching the sunset, we can enjoy the illuminated Acropolis and the city’s night lights.

Check out our complete Greece travel guide for more inspiration.

Panathenaic Olympic Stadium

Also known as Kallimarmaro, this stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It was built on the site of the original stadium for the Panathinaic Games (330 BC), which were held every 4 years in honour of the goddess Athena. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of white marble, with a capacity of approximately 68,000 spectators.

Today, Kallimarmaro hosts summer concerts and important cultural and sporting events. It is the final point of the annual Athens Marathon. During the year of the Olympic Games, the Olympic flame travels from Ancient Olympia throughout Greece before finally arriving at the Panathenaic Stadium for the official handover ceremony to the new host country.

Columns of Olympian Zeus / Hadrian’s Gate

Dedicated to the god Zeus, the temple of Olympian Zeus, or Olympion, was the largest temple in Ancient Greece. The church dates back to the 6th century BC but was not completed until the second century AD by the emperor Hadrian. Over 100 columns, 17 meters high, once supported this majestic temple, which was full of statues of gods and emperors. Over the centuries and after much “looting”, only 15 columns are left standing today, while the 16th fell to the ground after a storm. Unfortunately, nothing remains inside, not even the large statue of Zeus, which is said to have been the most impressive in the temple.

However, at a very close distance from the temple of Olympian Zeus is Hadrian’s Gate. A monumental gate reminiscent of a Roman triumphal arch. It was built to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and to honor him for his beneficial rule in Athens. The large marble gate marked the boundary between ancient Athens and the new city of Hadrian, as evidenced by the inscriptions on each side of the arch. A visit to this amazingly symmetrical location is a must for anyone visiting Athens.

Lycabettus Hill

For the panoramic view of Athens, the top of Lycabettus Hill is the ideal place! It is located at an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level, and its peak is the highest point in Athens. There are two ways to go up: on foot or by cable car.

For those who choose to climb to the top on foot, the route is pleasant, with many pine trees along the way and a gradual uphill grade, but it is difficult for those in poor physical condition. The cable car, on the other hand, is a straightforward option and departs every half hour. However, it passes through a tunnel, and you will not be able to admire the view during the ascent until you arrive.

You will enjoy the best view of Lycabettus Hill at sunset, especially when the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathinaikos Stadium, and the Ancient Agora are illuminated. You will also see that Athens is surrounded by the sea with amazing views of the Aegean. At the top is the picturesque chapel of Agios Georgios. In addition, you will find a café for breakfast and lunch. Reservations for dinner can be made at the luxurious Orizontes (Horizons) restaurant, which offers excellent views of Athens.

Monument to the Unknown Soldier-Evzones

In Syntagma Square, next to the Greek Parliament, stands the cenotaph for all Greek warriors who fell in war. The monument was carved in the early 1930s, and its steps and wall bear inscriptions recording battles from the First and Second Balkan Wars, the Greek-Turkish War, the First World War, and the Second World War.

The Evzones of the Presidential Guard monitor the monument, and there is a change of guard every hour. Do not forget to watch the change of guard on Sunday at 11 am, when the Evzones are dressed in traditional Greek costume.

National Garden

The National Garden covers about 16 hectares and has three entrances: Amalias Avenue, Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, and the Zappeion Palace. It was created between 1838 and 1840 by order of Queen Amalia, the first queen of Greece. It imported more than 500 plant species from Greece and around the world, including a wide range of tropical varieties. Unfortunately, over time, some of these plants did not survive the Mediterranean climate, but those that have survived create a wonderful environment for relaxing.

Originally, it was called the Royal Garden because it was fenced, and only the royal family was permitted to walk there. People were allowed to walk in Zappeion, another small park next to the Royal Garden. However, after the restoration of democracy in Greece in 1975, the park was renamed the National Garden and opened to the public. Today, it remains open from sunrise to sunset.

The neighbourhoods of Plaka and Anafiotika

Plaka is located at the top of the ancient Athenian Acropolis, in its shadow. It is a quiet neighborhood with narrow, picturesque alleys, small, low houses reminiscent of the 19th century, and blooming bougainvilleas in summer. Plaka is full of family-run shops, each with something tempting, from ceramics and musical instruments to handmade jewelry and traditional foods such as olives and spices.

At a very close distance is Anafiotika, below the rocky northeastern slope of the Acropolis, an equally picturesque neighbourhood with plenty of Greek restaurants, cozy cafes, and bars.

The square in Monastiraki

Monastiraki Square is an open space, surrounded by a combination of old and new buildings. A sign on one side of the square marks the road to the flea market. Narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from jewelry and souvenirs to new and second-hand clothing and everyday items are what you will find in the open-air market in Monastiraki, Athens. From the square, you can see the Acropolis rising high above, and a short walk from the square takes you to Hadrian’s Library.

Monastiraki also offers many dining options, including souvlaki and other traditional Greek dishes. You will also find plenty of roof bars to enjoy your coffee or cocktail, overlooking the city of Athens, especially the Acropolis.

The neighbourhood of Psyrri

It is located in the center of Athens, next to the Monastiraki metro station, about a 15-minute walk from Plaka and the Acropolis. It is considered one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city, with vibrant street art throughout and a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes.

Initially, there are many options for snacks, desserts, and coffee. For a light snack, visit the Koulouri bakery, which is open 24/7. In just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious local snack to carry with you until your next meal. Also, in Heroes Square, we suggest you try the traditional bougatsa, a pie with cream or other savory options, where they are always fresh, and you can see them making them while you wait for them.

For dessert, we recommend the “Nancy’s Cherbet House” and the “Psyrri Cherbet”, where you can try fresh traditional Greek and Oriental sweets. Do not forget to visit the shop “Little Kook,” a specialty coffee and sweets shop with bright decorations throughout the street. There are many choices of traditional taverns, and Psyrri is famous for its lively nightlife.

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio

Very close to Athens, on Cape Sounio, is the Temple of Poseidon. The ancient Athenians built this marble temple to honour Poseidon and guide sailors safely home.

Pro tip: Visit the Temple of Poseidon in the afternoon to watch the sunset over the sea, creating a beautiful landscape.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation is a leading cultural center that organizes exhibitions and festivals year-round. The complex has the National Library of Greece and the National Opera, among other galleries and theaters that highlight Greek culture.

It is an architectural work of art and an excellent space for indoor and outdoor events. With an ice rink in winter and summer sailing when the weather is nice, there are plenty of fun activities for both adults and children.

Coastal Line

While there is much to see in the city, your heart may long for the soft sand and the smell of the sea air when you visit Greece. If so, you are in luck: there are many beaches to explore near Athens that hold blue flags.

From the luxurious beach bar and sun loungers at Astir Vouliagmeni or the popular spot at Edem, along the coastline to Cape Sounio and beyond, you will find a spot that suits your style. Some beaches are easily accessible by taxi or public transport, but if you want to find something quieter with cleaner waters, it would be best to rent a car so you can drive a little further.

How to get from Athens to Santorini

Most visitors use Athens as a gateway to the Greek islands, and Santorini is the most popular next stop. You have two options:

By ferry: From Piraeus port (accessible by Metro Line 1 from central Athens). The journey takes approximately 5–8 hours, depending on the vessel. High-speed ferries do it in 4.5 hours. Book tickets in advance during the summer on Ferryscanner.

By plane: A 45-minute domestic flight from Athens International Airport to Santorini. Multiple daily flights in summer. Compare prices on Skyscanner.

💡 Our tip: Take the ferry at least one way. The approach to Santorini’s caldera by sea is one of the most spectacular sights in Greece.

For more on Santorini itself, read our complete Santorini travel guide.

Athens FAQ — Everything you need to know