A Local’s Guide to the Best 41 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Athens the capital of Greece is a city with many points of interest; a rich history, good shopping, tasty food, and amazing nightlife. So if you are visiting Athens and you are wondering what to see and do I have made this comprehensive list of the best things to do and see in Athens Greece. I hope you find them interesting and helpful.

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41 Amazing Things to Do in Athens

Visit the Acropolis

You can buy a combined ticket for 30 € at the door of the sites that entitles you with entrance to the following archaeological sites: Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Agora of Athens, Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos, Hadrian’s Library, Kerameikos, Museum of the Ancient Agora, North slope of Acropolis, Olympieio, Roman Agora of Athens, South Slope of Acropolis. With just one ticket you will see the most important points of interest in Athens.

If you don’t want to wait in line and already have the ticket you can buy this: Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket it costs 5 euros more but saves you the time and hustle, especially in the high season.

If you just want to visit the Acropolis tickets cost 20€ from April 1st to October 30th and 10€ from November 1st to March 31st and you can buy them online at the official e-ticketing service of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports.

The crowds are huge between April and October at the Acropolis. If you want to beat them I recommend that you visit the Acropolis at the opening time (8:00 am). If you are interested in a guided tour I recommend this No-Crowds Acropolis Tour & Skip the Line Acropolis Museum Tour by the company Take Walks which gets you in the Acropolis for the first viewing of the day. This way not only do you beat the crowds but the heat as well. It also includes a skip-the-line tour to the Acropolis Museum.

Another great option is the Best of Athens tour that takes you to the Acropolis for the first viewing without any crowds and also in the Ancient Agora and a walk around Plaka. This way you can see the best of Athens in 4 hours. Plus with the combo pass that you get, you have access to five more top Athens attractions for the next five days. 

Finally, If you are interested in a guided tour of both the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis, I recommend the Athens, Acropolis, and Acropolis Museum Including Entry Fees. This 5-hour guided tour includes skipping the line entrance tickets to both sites and a guided tour as well. It also includes a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium and the Royal Gardens.

Acropolis Museum 

Acropolis Museum is considered one of the most important museums in Greece. It houses more than 3.000 artifacts from the Acropolis. After your visit, you can grab lunch or coffee at the museum’s restaurant with breathtaking views of the Acropolis.

Click here to book your skip the line tickets to the Acropolis Museum and avoid waiting in line.

National Archaeological Museum

It is the largest museum in Greece with more than 20.000 exhibits covering a vast period of history from the beginnings of Prehistory to Late Antiquity. It is one of the must-sees on your visit to Athens.

Click here to book a private guided tour to the Archaeological Museum for your party (up to 6 people).

Watch the Change of the Guards

In front of the Parliament at Syntagma square lies the Monument of the Unknown Soldier. It is guarded around the clock by two men wearing a traditional uniform called Evzones. Every hour takes place the ceremony of the Changing of the Guards.

A good way to save money and time on your visit to Athens is to buy the Athens City Pass. I recommend the Classic or Complete Athens City Pass. For more information: Athens City Pass.

Have a picnic at the National Gardens

The National Gardens are located behind the Parliament. It is an area with lush greenery, offering an oasis in the center of Athens. It is an ideal place to relax and have a snack and one of the best things to do to unwind in the city.

Check out: 10 days in Greece, a detailed itinerary.

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium

If you are a sports history buff then one of the things to do in Athens is to visit the Panathenaic Stadium. The first Modern Olympic Games were held there making the stadium a monument of significant importance. It is the only stadium in the world made from white marble and has a capacity of 60.000 spectators.

Click here to buy your tickets to the Panathenaic Stadium

Climb Philopappos Hill

Philopappou hill is a beautiful park with great views of the Acropolis. There you can discover the Philopappou Monument, handmade cobbled roads, and the church of Ayios Demetrios Loumbardiaris, the 16th-century basilica with great murals. The area of Philopappou Hill has been designated a Scheduled and Protected Monument of the Global Cultural Heritage.

You might be interested in: How to spend 3 days in Athens, a detailed itinerary.

Stroll the paved streets of Plaka

Located at the foot of the Acropolis, it’s the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Plaka is a picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, shops, restaurants, and ruins from the Roman era.

Visit Anafiotika, an island in the center of Athens

Anafiotika is located in the upper area of Plaka, just under the Acropolis. It is a beautiful area constructed by builders from the Aegean island of Anafi and resembles a Greek island.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the most impressive sights in Athens with the huge temple columns standing in the view of the looming Acropolis. The building of this site began in the 6th Century but was not completed until almost 700 years later in 131AD!

While only around 15 columns remain today (of the original 100+), you can still imagine the splendor of the site as it would have been.  This was once considered to be the largest temple in Greece so it is of great importance for those interested in Greek history.

Tickets: Included in the special ticket package of 30 €

Arch of Hadrian

Hadrian’s Gate or the Arch of Hadrian is a stunning monument in the heart of Athens. This gateway is located between the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus so is an easy site to add to your Greek sightseeing trip.

The large marble gate was a boundary between ancient Athens and Hadrian’s new city which can be seen by the inscriptions on each side of the arch. Visiting this stunning symmetrical site is a must during any trip to the Greek capital.

Ancient Agora

The site of the Ancient Agora is one of the largest historical sites in Athens and is a must for all travelers and culture vultures! The sprawling market site features a range of buildings and ruins that take you back to social life in ancient Greece.

This marketplace would have been one of the main meeting spots for all citizens, with philosophical talks, healing baths, religious meetings, and trades all taking place. 

Tickets: Included in the special ticket package of 30 €

Visit the Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is one of the most interesting museums in the capital and has been open to the public since 1930. This historical and cultural museum shows the development of Greece through the ages.

The collections include a plethora of exhibits that highlight the variety of cultures that have had a profound impact on the country. From Roman rule to Greek independence, the Benaki Museum gives you a great insight into Greek life and history.

Visit the Roman Agora

Situated just north of the Acropolis, the Roman Agora was the focus of life in the city. It was rectangular in size and shaded by trees and while the women bought goods from the merchants, the men discussed the politics of the day.

Check out the Archaeological site of Kerameikos

Kerameikos was the cemetery of ancient Athens from the 9th century BC until Roman times. Excavations have revealed temples, marble statues, and thousands of tombs.

Visit the Museum of Cycladic Art

In the 1960s, Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris began collecting ancient artifacts and Cycladic figurines. Their collection grew to more than 3,000 pieces, which are now housed in this museum- one of the most important in the world.

Visit Hadrian’s Library

Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2^nd century AD, the library was his largest project.  Built as a forum, with an ornamental pool in the central courtyard, there was a library, parchment store, music rooms, and lecture halls.

Watch a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Situated just below the Acropolis, this stunning outdoor stone theatre was originally built for musical competitions. Today, the Odeon hosts the world’s best performers and this is the only time it is open to visitors.

Check out Monastiraki Flea Market

It is amazing to find a colorful flea market in the heart of Ancient Athens! There are numerous stalls selling clothing, leather, and crafts as well as some selling second-hand trinkets too – it’s a great place to buy souvenirs!

See the Lyceum of Aristotle

The Lyceum was originally a temple dedicated to Apollo Lyceus, but in 334 BC, Aristotle founded the Peripatetic School of Philosophy in this sacred place. It was there he taught politics, metaphysics, ethics, and logic and Plato was his most important student.

Explore the Psiri Neighbourhood

Close to Monastiraki Square, you will find the Psari neighborhood, which is well known for its vibrant street art, Varvakios Food Market, all types of shops, plenty of cheap tavernas with tasty cheap food, and trendy cafés.

See the Neoclassical Buildings on Panepistimiou Avenue

Along Panepistimiou Street you will find a number of the most important public buildings of the city. Some of these buildings include the Athens Academy, the University, the National Library, the Arsakeion Mansion, and many more.

Visit the Ottoman monuments

There are a lot of buildings that were preserved from the time that Athens was conquered by the Ottomans (1456 – March 1833). Some of them are the Mosques located in Monastiraki Square, the Hamam (Turkish Baths) which is now home to a museum, and many cultural events.

Climb Lycabettus hill

Lycabettus Hill can be reached either on foot through the many footpaths or by the funicular. At the top, there is an open-air theatre that hosts a lot of cultural events in the summer. If you find yourself in Athens at this time of year watching a performance from up there is a unique experience.

You can also visit the church of Ayios Georgios enjoy your coffee in the café or have dinner in Orizodes restaurant. Most importantly enjoy the incredible view of the city.

Visit Athens Central Market

Athens Central Market has been in operation for well over 100 years and is a hub of fresh produce and traditional delicacies that will make you hungry in an instant! The sights and smells you will encounter here will have you longing to try new things and dine out Greek style.

Favorites include cured meats, fresh fish, delicious desserts, and herbs and spices. The market is open every day apart from Sunday, so there’s really no excuse not to go for a wander. 

See a performance at Dora’s Stratou theatre

The group of Dora’s Stratou Theatre consists of 75 dancers, musicians, and singers. The dancers wear traditional Greek costumes from various regions of the country and perform songs and dances from all the periods of Greek history. The show lasts 90 minutes and tickets cost 15 euros for adults.

Relax in a Hammam

After all that walk you have done in order to discover the city, the best thing to do is find a place to relax and pamper yourself. Hammam is the perfect place to do it. It is located in the center of Athens and offers services like hammam baths, massage, and beauty treatments.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation is a fascinating cultural center that holds exhibitions and festivals throughout the year. The complex features the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera among other galleries and theatres that celebrate Greek culture.

The development is an architectural work of art and is a great space for both indoor and outdoor events. With an ice-skating rink in winter and summer sailing when the weather’s bright, there are loads of fun-filled activities for both adults and kids alike.

Outlet shopping in Spata

In the Spata area close to the airport and the zoological park, there is the Mc Arthur Glenn Athens designer outlet. It is a big mall with many shops, restaurants, cafes, playgrounds, and a cinema. The easiest way to get there is by public transport. The closest metro station is Doukissis Plakedias. From there you can either take bus 319 or take the free shuttle.

Watch the sunset in Sounio

Sounio is located just 1 hour away from the city of Athens. Apart from the lovely beaches in the area where you can have a swim in the summer, it is famous for its archaeological site. At Sounio you can visit the temple of Poseidon the god of the sea, from where you can admire one of the most beautiful sunsets. Sounio is a very popular day trip from Athens.

For more information check this half-day sunset tour to Sounio it which lasts approx 4 hours.

Cruise to 3 nearby islands

From the port of Piraeus, you can catch one of the many ships that make daily excursions to 3 islands of the Saronic Gulf. The beautiful islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. While onboard you will have the chance to enjoy a beautiful buffet and live entertainment.

Find more information and book this cruise

Read my experience on the one-day cruise to 3 islands.

Check out: Best islands to visit near Athens.

Swim at Lake Vouliagmeni

If you are keen on cooling down and being in nature then one of the top things to do in Athens is to swim at Lake Vouliagmeni. The lake is located in the suburb of Athens called Vouliagmeni just 25 km from the center of Athens. It is famous for its therapeutic waters that maintain a 24 degrees Celsius temperature year-round. Apart from swimming, there is a café on site along with a playground for the children.

Try Street Food

Trying one of the many street foods available in Athens is something you shouldn’t miss. There is a wide variety from the traditional Greek souvlaki and the koulouri to oriental choices like Indian souvlaki and falafels

Enjoy your coffee or drink with a view

There are many rooftop bars and cafes in the city offering panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city of Athens. You could try the café at the Acropolis Museum or the rooftop of A for Athens hotel in Monastiraki Square.

Tip: A good way to save money and time on your visit to Athens is to buy the Athens City Pass I recommend the Classic or Complete Athens Pass. For more information: Athens City Pass

Watch a movie in an open-air cinema

There are a couple of open-air cinemas that operate during the summer months in the center of Athens some of them offering incredible views of the city and the Acropolis like Cine Thisio.

Admire the Street Art

In the last couple of years, Athens has been filled with remarkable Street Art. You can discover it either by yourself in the streets around Monastiraki and Psiri area or by a guided tour.

Find more information and book your street art tour here.

Go on a Mythological Tour of Athens

For those who love the myth and magic of Greek history, this Athens Mythology Highlights Tour gives you an awesome insight into the country’s culture. Your visit to the Acropolis with a licensed guide allows you to delve deeper into the myths behind the famous site and discover more about Ancient Greek society.

You’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time when you explore the ancient sites such as the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus and imagine the daily lives that this civilization lived so many years ago!

Click here for more information and to book a mythological tour of Athens.

Learn how to cook Greek food

Mediterranean cuisine is probably one of the best in the world, with fresh produce, great flavors, and relaxed dining at its heart. This four-hour cooking course allows you to learn the ropes at making traditional Greek food from scratch.

Discover market-fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs and spices that make up the basis for delicious Greek cuisine. You’ll enjoy an aperitif and mezze nibbles during your class before sitting down with a glass of wine to enjoy a heart Greek Sunday lunch – yum!

Your teacher will send you off with recipe cards for the dishes you’ve made so you can impress your friends and family back home with your newfound skills.

Click here for more information and to book the cooking lesson.

Taste the best of Greece on a food tour

The Original Gourmet Food Tour of Athens is a four-hour food fiesta that gives you the chance to delve into the markets, cafés, bars, and delis of Athens to try the city’s best cuisine.

From classic Greek coffee brewed in a traditional style to quintessentially Greek olives, mezze, oil, and vinegar, this is a whistle-stop tour of the top titbits. The Greeks are also known for their sweet treats so no food tour would be complete without Greek yogurt and honey, loukoumades (Greek donuts), and custard-filled filo pies.

Click here for more information and to book a food tour.

Explore the Beaches of Athens

While there is a lot to see in the city, your heart may be yearning for soft sand and the smell of sea air when visiting Greece. If so, you’re in luck as there are plenty of beaches to explore not far out of Athens.

From the luxurious beach bars and sunbeds of Astir Vouliagmeni or the popular spot of Edem,  you will be sure to find a spot that suits your style. Some beaches are easily accessible by taxi or public transport, but if you want to find something a little quieter, it’d be better to hire a car so you can venture further afield.

Explore the Athenian Riviera

If you want to be like a true Athenian then you’ll want to make sure you take a little time out of the city center to enjoy the chic Athenian Riviera. This coastal region is filled with pristine beaches, stylish bars and tavernas, boutique hotels, and a laid-back lifestyle that will make you feel as though you are a million miles from the capital! The Riviera stretches from Faliro to Cape Sounion so you can explore each of the different seaside towns, stopping at whichever takes your fancy.

The Best Time to Visit Athens

The great thing about Athens is that it really is a year-round destination thanks to its range of sights and attractions that allow you to explore come rain or shine.

However, it is worth noting that Athens does get extremely hot in summer and is probably best avoided in August (and perhaps July) when temperatures soar and hordes of tourists descend on the city. Although in August the city is only filled with tourists as locals visit the islands,

The shoulder seasons of April-June and September-November are arguably the best time to visit as you can easily walk around the city sights without being too hot or cold. Unlike many of the Greek islands, Athens stays open all year round, with restaurants, hotels, museums, and attractions being open for business as usual.

Of course, if you want to visit both Athens and the coast, you’ll want to choose May, June, September, or October so that you can enjoy the heat while outside the city but not be too sweltering when walking around the Acropolis and Ancient Agora!

How to get from and to Athens airport

There are quite a few options for getting from Athens airport to downtown, and it all depends on your personal preference! It’s also worth asking if your hotel offers any transfers from the airport to there!

Metro” You can take the metro, and choose Line 3 which will take you from Athens airport straight to the city center. It runs every 30 minutes, all week long, from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm. The entire trip will last you about 40 minutes, and you will be dropped off at Syntagma square.  The ticket costs 10 euros. The metro is a great option since it’s clean, new, all stops are clearly identified, and you get to avoid traffic.

Bus: You have the option of taking a bus from the express bus station, and you can choose from five different lines. The trip takes from 35 to 60 minutes depending on your destination.

X95 is the one you should take to reach the city center. It will drop you off right at Syntagma square. Tickets cost 6 EUR.

Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option, specifically if you have a lot of luggage and you’re not tight on budget. You’ll find dozens of taxis standing at the designated Taxi waiting area, right after you get out of Exit 3 of Arrivals Level.

There is a flat rate of 38 EUR from the airport to the city center, and if you arrive from midnight until 5 am that increases sharply to 54 EUR.

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Taxi: You can pre-book a car online before your arrival, and find your driver waiting for you at the arrivals with a welcome name sign and a bag with a bottle of water and a map of the city, thus saving you all the hassle of having to find a taxi/bus/metro.

There is a flat rate of 38 EUR from the airport to the city center, and if you arrive from midnight until 5 am that increases sharply to 54 EUR.

For more information and to book your private transfer click here.

Where to stay in Athens, Greece

Here are my picks for the best accommodations in Athens, Greece:

Athens is usually fully booked from April to November so book early for the best hotels and prices.

Budget Hotels in Athens

Attalos Hotel offers simple air-conditioned rooms with free wi-fi just 100m away from Monastiraki square.

Evripides Hotel is located near Monastiraki square, close to all the city’s attractions. It offers simple air-conditioned rooms with free wi-fi.

Mid-Range Hotels in Athens

Titania Hotel is centrally located 5 minutes on foot from Syntagma Hotel. It offers renovated air-conditioned room with free wi-fi and great views of the Acropolis from its rooftop terrace.

Best Western Amazon Hotel is centrally located between Syntagma square and Plaka. It offers air-conditioned rooms and free wi-fi.

Boutique Hotels in Athens

Acropolis Museum Boutique Hotel is located in a restored neoclassical building close to the Acropolis Museum. It offers charming rooms with free Wi-Fi and eco-friendly mattresses.

Herodion Hotel offers elegant rooms next to the Acropolis and the Acropolis museum. Its rooms offer all the modern amenities you would expect from a 4-star hotel. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar that offers panoramic views of the Acropolis.

5 Star Hotels in Athens

St George Lycabettus Hotel is located in upmarket Kolonaki square and offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. It is also a very family-friendly hotel.

You can easily realize after reading this list that Greece’s capital Athens, has many points of interest. Have you visited Athens Greece? Have you done any of the above? What was your favorite attraction in Athens? Do you have something else to propose? I am more than happy to listen to your reviews and ideas.

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