Things to Do in Athens
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant modern life. Known as the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is home to iconic ancient landmarks and a lively urban atmosphere. The Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon, dominates the city's skyline and is a must-visit for its historical significance and breathtaking views. The Acropolis Museum, located nearby, houses an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deep insights into the city’s glorious past.
Strolling through the charming neighborhood of Plaka, with its narrow streets and neoclassical architecture, offers a glimpse into the old-world charm of Athens. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at cozy tavernas and shop for unique souvenirs. Monastiraki, famous for its flea market, is another area worth exploring, where one can find everything from antiques to trendy fashion.
For art enthusiasts, the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum boast impressive collections spanning millennia. The vibrant district of Psiri is perfect for nightlife, with its array of bars, live music venues, and trendy eateries.
The Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, is an impressive site for sports history buffs. For a more relaxed experience, a visit to the National Garden provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Athens seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with contemporary culture, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to history enthusiasts, food lovers, and modern urban explorers alike. Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, indulging in local delicacies, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Athens is a city that promises an unforgettable experience.
Plaka is the most beloved and oldest part of Athens where you will only see people walking and no automobiles. This delightful neighbourhood has an authentic village feel and is lined up with cobblestone streets.
The Olympic Stadium of Athens is a renowned Greek destination. It is the largest sports arena in the country and has seen an exceptional transformation over the years. This stadium was the first destination of the Olympic Games (1896) and was built entirely out of white marble. Its capacity to host up to 80,000 spectators has turned it into a visionary for every Olympics lover.
One of the most visited attractions in Athens is the Acropolis museum, home to the rarest and the most expensive Greek ancient art collections around the world. Spread across 25000 square metres, housing over 14000 square metres of exhibition space, this space resembles an ancient Athenian neighbourhood. This is one of the best places to visit in Athens in the afternoon; when it's sunny outside.
Also known as the Olympieion, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, was once the largest temple in Greece. Dating back to the sixth century BC, one of the notable attractions here is the Hadrian’s Arch. View the architecturally famous Roman baths, along with the ancient marble column ruins. Taking a tour of this historically famous temple is one of the best things to do when visiting Athens.
If visiting Athens with your friends and family, do not forget to visit the grand Syntagma square, located right in front of the Hellenic Parliament. One of the best things to do here is to attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Syntagma Square, which is an exciting experience. The Syntagma Square is adorned with a marble relief as well, which provides further details about the history of Athens.
One of the most prominent museums around the world, the National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece. Offering more than 11,000 exhibits, with over five permanent collections and about 8000 square metres of exhibition space, this museum is a must visit. Some notable highlights of this museum are the Prehistoric Collection, the Sculpture Collection, the Vase and Decorative Objects Collection, and many more.
An ancient marketplace, the Ancient Agora of Athens is a top visited tourist attraction. This is the place wherein several conferences, events and assemblies took place. One of the main attractions to visit here includes the Temple of Hephaestus, which is a famous ancient temple. Get to explore around some of the most remarkable buildings and structures, which are present around the Agora.
An ancient monument in Athens, the Old Temple of Athena got its name due to repeated construction and restoration of the monument. The new part of the temple is adorned with marble pediments. Get to witness the ruins of the altar, and the original peripheral structure. The temple is home to several artefacts dating back to the period as old as the sixth century BC.
Perched at a height of 277 metres above sea level, Mount Lycabettus is known as the highest point in Athens. A circular winding path takes you up this pristine hill, and you can indulge viewing the entire city of Athens from atop. A funicular also operates around this hill, and is a fun experience if visiting with kids. You can also indulge in the cable car experience.
Known as the world’s oldest theatre, the Theatre of Dionysus was founded in the fifth century BC. Discovered in the 18th century, this theatre hosts the annual spring drama festival, wherein you get to view ancient playwrights performances. One of the main attractions here are the stone reliefs, set on stage, portraying the life history of Dionysus.
Offering the best insights into ancient Greek history from the Byzantine period, this museum is home to the rarest Byzantine art collection. Housing over 25000 artefacts, the objects here also belong to the early Christian, mediaeval, and post-Byzantine eras. You can explore the many sculptures, paintings, textiles, icons, and several other craftworks here.
An ancient marketplace of Athens; the Roman Agora was the primary centre of daily life of people. One of the most notable attractions here is the Stoa of Attalos, which is an ancient Agora, initially constructed by King Attalos II. Another famous attraction to visit at the Roman Agora is the Temple of Hephaestus, which reaches up to the beautiful Agora Hill.
Located in the Kolonaki quarter, founded by the Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris Foundation, the Museum of Cycladic Art is one of the best art centres in Athens. The permanent collection at this museum is home to over 3000 objects and artefacts; representing ancient Greek art. The artefacts housed here date back to as old as the sixth century BC period.
The Athens Acropolis is one of the most historically significant structures; and is known to be a symbol of the ancient civilization of Athens. One of the most notable attractions here is the Parthenon monument; dating back to 447 BC. Some other attractions to visit here include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Porch of the Caryatids. One of the best times to visit the Acropolis of Athens is during the sunset to indulge in beautiful panoramic views of the city.
Among the oldest temples in Athena, the Temple of Athena Nike is known to be the first of the ionic structures to have been built in Acropolis. Built on a 6 metre stone, extending up to the southwest Acropolis, this temple also offers splendid views. Dedicated to the goddess of victory in Greek mythology, the name Nike literally translates to ‘a form of Athena’.
With its pristine architecture and colourful houses down the hill, Anafiotika is among the most beloved Athens attractions. Situated on a hill, you can view the famous Cycladic architecture in the Anafiotika neighbourhood. This quaint village is also filled with numerous Byzantine churches, which are worth a visit. You can indulge in some beautiful panoramic views from atop the Anafiotika.
Founded in 1930, the Benaki museum is one the most visited museums in Athens, and has an impressive collection of the ancient Greece relics and its colonies. The Benaki Museum depicts the story of the evolution of Greek culture, from the olden times till the present date. Home to over 45,000 objects and artefacts, the collection here is ever-growing.
Situated right beside the Greek parliament and behind the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the National Garden is a lush green space. With several inviting trails, you can indulge in strolling around this beautiful space. Moreover, one of the highlights here includes the Zappeion Hall, which hosts several events and performances, and is an open-air hall.
Among the most beautiful and pristine places to visit in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus tops the list. Dedicated to the Greek God of Volcanoes, fire, and blacksmiths, this temple is kept entirely preserved. Some of the main attractions to visit at the temple are the Ancient Agora of Athens, and the Stoa of Attalos.
One of the most talked about attractions in Athens, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an open-air theatre, situated at the slopes of the Acropolis towards southwest. Home to some of the world’s best musical performances since the past 60 years, you can get to indulge in watching the ballets and arias live. Look out for the annual Athens & Epidaurus festival, which is very grandly held here.
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Which are some of the best things to do in Athens?
1. See Hadrian's Library: The tour of Hadrian's Library is one of the best things to do in Athens as it is not a usual library where you can read books, but regular concerts and lecture sessions are also organized here. Earlier it functioned as a church, but now it has been transformed into a library where you can also find a small museum that houses year age-old books and manuscripts.
Location: Areos 3, 105 55, Attica, Athens.
Timings: 9 am-7 pm.
2. See The Beautiful Decorations at Little KooK: If you wish to relish the best cuisines at an Instagrammable place, then Little KooK should be your ideal choice. More than its food, people appreciate the wonderful decoration that makes it look like a glittering haven.
Whether it's Halloween or Christmas, the theme of decoration keeps on changing, and people get to see a new makeover of this café.
Location: 17 Karaiskaki Georgiou Psirri, Athens 105 54 Greece.
Price: 1497.600 for two people.
Timings: 10 am-12 pm.
3. Take a Street Art Tour: If you're an art enthusiast, then you should definitely take a street art tour in the Plaka area where you will witness dense graffiti colors over the grey walls.
This area is home to some of the best local and international local artists that play with messages, fresh ideas, and styles. You can also witness here underground pieces and classic artworks that will leave you totally awestruck.
Location: Athens 10556 Greece.
Price: 1497.600 for two people.
Timings: €40(3536) for adults & €30(2652) for kids.
4. Enjoy a Greek Coffee: This is one of the best activities in Athens that you must try if you wish to experience the coffee culture of Greece. Freddo cappuccino is one of the best coffee variants here that is not a regular coffee, but it is made with instant coffee, sugar, and water. Café Taf is one of the best places to sample the Greek coffee, and you can also enjoy here tons of other varieties of coffee.
Location: Emmanouil Benaki 7, Athens 10678 Greece.
Timings: 7 am to 9 pm.
5. Watch the Changing of the Guard: Considered to be one of the best activities in Athens, you should definitely watch the changing of the guards to know more about the rich culture and tradition of this city.
Every Sunday, this event takes place at the Parliament Building at Syntagma. The highly trained soldiers, also known as Evezone change their position in the presence of the monarch with the Royal Guards music band.
Location: Parliament House, (Megaro Voulis) 100 21 Athens, Greece.
Timings: 11 am.
6. Explore the Central Market: If you wish to stock up souvenirs for your friends and family members, then you should definitely explore the central market that is an outdoor market where you'll find vendors selling meat, fish, jewelry, and clothes. You can also buy handicrafts, footwear, and paintings over here at an affordable rate.
Location: Athinas 42, 999-20, Attica.
7. Climb to the Acropolis: Your tour to Athens can't be complete unless you see the alluring beauty of Acropolis that is an architectural masterpiece in Athens that sits on a hill.
From the top of the Acropolis, you can have an alluring view of the entire city. As you climb higher, you will witness Parthenon, which was built in ninety years and is known to be the birthplace of Western Civilization.
Location: Via Dionysiou Areopagitou str, Athens 105 58 Greece.
Price: 1744.
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm.
8. Enjoy the Vistas of Nature at The National Gardens: Appreciate the lush flora and fauna at The National Gardens that offer a scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city-based life.
This beautiful garden is spread across sixteen acres of narrow gravel paths and has a small zoo, also where you can witness some of the best varieties of animals. It also has a pond where you can see peacocks and greek goats.
Location: Leoforos Amalias 1,10557, Attica.
Timings: 9 am to 7 pm.
Where can I enjoy nightlife in Athens and how safe is to go out in night?
1. Crawl through the Pubs in Athens: This is one of the best activities in Athens that you must enjoy if you're a night owl. From bottomless sangria to the best wines, you can enjoy the best drinks as well as lip-smacking food during the pub crawl. Monastiraki and Koukaki are the best places to enjoy bar hopping in Athens.
2. Walking Tour: This is another interesting activity that you must enjoy to discover the hidden gems of Athens. During this tour, you will also get a chance to sample the local delicacies and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
3. Attend a Concert at Athens Concert Hall: To have the best nightlife experience in Athens, you should definitely watch a show at the Athens Concert Hall that is a stunning venue known for its excellent acoustics. You can also enjoy classical music, ballet, opera, and theatre performances.
4. Wine Tasting Tour: If you're a wine lover, then you should definitely be a part of the wine tasting tour to taste the Greek wine. The Acropolis of Athens is the best place to enjoy this tour while hearing the tales of Dionysus.
Which are most romantic things to do in Athens during honeymoon?
1. Enjoy a Romantic Stroll at the Cultural Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll with your partner in this beautiful park that is known for its lush flora and fauna and blooming flowers. You can also witness here art exhibits and take a ride in the park on ponies or donkeys.
2. Watch the Sunset from Aeropagita Hill: Watching the sunset from Aeropagita Hill with your better half is considered to be one of the most romantic activities in Athens. Grab a drink or snack in your hand and see the sky changing hues from blue to orange and gold to red during the evening.
3. Enjoy Drinks at the Rooftop Bar: This is one of the best things to do in Athens for honeymoon seekers who are wishing to turn their vacation into the memory of a lifetime. You can enjoy some local mezze or a fancy gourmet meal at the rooftop restaurants that offer an incredible view of the Acropolis.
4. Enjoy a Treatment at the Traditional Hammam: Enjoy some sweet treats and a glass of green tea while enjoying a serene steam bath at the traditional hammam that have many private rooms and spacious baths.
What are the things to do in Athens with kids?
1. Explore the Traditional Neighborhoods: This is one of the best things to do in Athens with kids to discover the hidden gems of this city and socialize with the local merchants. Plaka is one such bustling neighborhood where you can witness the neoclassical buildings and have a cup of Greek coffee.
2. Witness the Exotic Animals at Animal World: One of the best things to do in Athens with kids is witnessing more than three-fifty species of animals at the Animal World. You can also witness here exotic fauna, and the kids can play in the playground that has a climbing castle and swings.
3. Enjoy a Food Tour: Give your child a luscious treat by being a part of the food tour where you'll get to sample some of the best local cuisines in Athens. From ice creams to sweet treats and mocktails to cakes and pizza, your kids will get to have all their favorite delicacies here, making it one of the best things to do in Athens with kids.
4. Sail Along the Coast of Athens: Put on your swimwear and take a splash into the stunning beaches of Athens that are known for their crystal clear water and low current.
What can you do in Athens for free?
2. Enjoy a Picnic at National Gardens: Another interesting activity that you can enjoy for free in Athens is enjoying a picnic at National Gardens that is home to lush flora and fauna and blooming flowers.
3. Enjoy a Game at Panathenaic Stadium: This is one of the best activities that you must try if you're a sports history buff and want to enjoy your favorite game. This is a huge stadium where the Modern Olympic Games were held and has a capacity of six thousand spectators.
4. Climb the Lycabettus Hill: Climbing the Lycabettus Hill is considered to be a thrilling activity as you'll get to enjoy stunning views from the top of the hill. On the top, you'll find an open-air theatre where you can witness many cultural performances.
Which are the best places to shop in Athens?
2. Free Shop: This is an Avant garde boutique that houses a sophisticated collection of fashion wear and other high-end accessories. The brands that you can find here include Balenciaga, Margiela, Maison Martin, Acne, and Pierre Hardy.
3. Ermou Street: This is a shopping paradise in Athens where you can find English-owned stores as well as the international beauty retailers. The collection here includes jewelry, clothing, accessories as well as footwear.
4. The Plaka: This shopping district is known for its vast array of souvenir shops that sell everything under the sun at the best prices. It also has some of the best cafes and restaurants where you can relish tasty cuisines.
Which are must see historical sites in Athens?
1. Temple of Hephaestus: Designed by Ictinus in the fifth century, this is one of the most well-preserved Greek temples in the entire world. It is dedicated to Hephaestus, who is the God of fire and metalworking.
2. The Erechtheion: Named after a shrine dedicated to Erechtheion, who was an Athenian hero, this temple is one of the most renowned architectural sites in Athens. It has six caryatids that have female figures on it and serves as columns.
3. Agios Georgios Church: Located on Lycabettus Hill, this whitewashed Greek orthodox chapel was built in the eighteenth century and is dedicated to Zeus. You can access the chapel either by a funicular or by foot.
4. Roman Agora: This is a Roman landmark that was built in the first century and served as a spot for political gatherings. Currently, cultural exhibitions and scientific workshops are held here.
What are the best adventure activities in Athens?
2. Hiking: This is another adrenaline rushing activity that you must try above Porto Rafti that is known for having the best trails for both experienced as well as novice hikers. While hiking here, you'll enjoy the sweeping views of the lush green valley, and you'll also get a chance to interact with the locals.
3. Horse riding: There are few centers and farms for horse riding located around thirty to forty kilometers from the main city of Athens, where you can enjoy this adrenaline-rushing sport. While riding the horse on the green pastures, you'll feel an instant adrenaline kick.
How can I reach Athens?
- By Cruise: Cruise is another great option to reach Athens from the Mediterranean countries. Various ferries operate from Venice, Cyprus, Egypt, etc.
What is Athens famous for?
1. Acropolis: This is an ancient citadel that houses the remains of various ancient buildings of architectural and historic significance such as the Parthenon.
2. Aegina: This is a renowned island that is famous for its picture-perfect sunsets and multicoloured cliffs.
3. Ancient Agora: It comprises a set of buildings where great thinkers Socrates, Protagoras, and poets would meet to voice their concerns and discuss their thoughts on various issues.
4. Greek Coffee: Made with finely powdered coffee beans Greek coffee is one of the staple drinks in Athens that you should definitely try.
Which is the offseason in Athens?
How many days are enough in Athens?
- On the first day you can visit the Acropolis Museum and you can sample some local wine.
- Dedicate your second day for Athens food tour where you’ll get to try the local delicacies at the best restaurants and street shops.
- On the third day you can visit the The Temple of Poseidon and Athens Riviera.
- Your fourth day will be dedicated to museum-hopping and you’ll visit the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Byzantine and Christian Museum and the Benaki Museum.
- On the fifth day you’ll head up to Mount Lycabettus that offers an incredible view of the city.
Which are the famous places to see the art & culture of Athens?
2. Gagosian Athens: Specializing in contemporary and modern arts this art gallery gives the visitors an opportunity to admire the work of international artists.
3. Parthenon: This is an iconic structure in the Acropolis that was built as a tribute to the goddess Athena. It is embellished by some of the most majestic sculptures and designs that make it a breathtaking example of Greek architecture.
4. Roman Agora: This is an iconic building with a spacious courtyard and beautiful columns. It served as the main market of Augustus and Caesar.
Which are the most famous destinations in Athens for couples?
2. Theatre of Dionysus: Enjoy a classical performance or ballet dance at this theatre that has seating capacity for seventeen thousand people and is dedicated to Dionysus.
3. National Garden: Express your love for your partner in this beautiful garden that is known for its lush greenery and splendid landscapes. You can also spot here flowerbeds, Greek goats, and peacocks.
4. Museum of Cycladic Art: If you and your partner are the lovers of art, then you must visit this museum that houses more than three thousand artifacts and old-age paintings.
Which are the famous places to eat at night in Athens?
2. Takorea: Located close to Bourbon street, this is the best place to enjoy food late at night. Their lively vibe and wide food selection will definitely leave you coming back for more whenever you're over here.
3. The Grill: This exotic restaurant remains open 24 hours and is known to serve the best fries and classic cheeseburgers that taste extremely amazing.
4. Little Italy: Whether you're looking for pizza or a glass of refreshing drinks at night hours, this restaurant will not fail to impress you. The best thing is that they use only fresh ingredients to prepare their dishes.
Which are the best cafes and coffee shops in Athens?
2. Little Tree Books And Coffee: If you're looking for a cozy corner where you can grab a cup of coffee and read your favorite book, then Little Tree Books And Coffee should be your ideal choice. You can sample here more than thirty varieties of cold-brewed as well as hot coffee variants.
3. Mr Bean Coffee Brewers: Named after the famous television character Mr. Bean this coffee shop has a welcoming vibe, and they are especially known for their pastries along with diverse varieties of coffees.
4. The Underdog: This is an extremely renowned coffee roastery as well as a bar known for their specialty sweet treats, snacks and coffees. The best thing about their coffees is that they roast the beans by themselves until they get the best flavors.
What are some famous beach activities in Athens?
Athens’ calm and coastal life is also quite famous. You get to witness a lot of beaches and popular beach activities in Athens throughout the year. Some of the famous beaches include –
- Vouliagmeni
- Varkiza
- Cape Sounion
- Schinias
- Porto Rafti
- Legrena
- Lagonisi
- Loutsa
- Kalivia
- All these beaches offer many beach activities which keep you engaged and active. Some of the famous beach activities include –
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkelling
- Coastal Bike tour
- Swimming
- Apart from these, some of the best things to do in Athens’ beaches could be some outdoor sports too.
Which are best places for scuba diving in and around Athens and what are the charges?
- Free Dive Greece
- Extreme Divers
- Oxygen Tours
- Sotiriou Diving Center
Which are best places for snorkeling in and around Athens and what are the charges?
- Oxygen Tours
- Extreme Divers
- Free Dive Greece
- Sotiriou Diving Center
Which all places can be seen during Athens electric bike tour?
- The Temple of Zeus
- The Acropolis
- The Restaurant of Plaka
- Syntagma Square
- Marathon Beach
- Cultural Park
Which are some of the best cruise trips in Athens?
- Hydra, Poros and Egina Day Cruise
- Catamaran Cruise
- Poseidon Temple to Sounio Cape Cruise
- Aegina Island to Athens Cruise
- Athens Riviera Cruise
Which are must visit sites in Athens during sightseeing trip of Athens?
Athens is a great place for sightseeing. Even so, most people tend to visit Athens for the amazing places and scenic beauty it offers while sightseeing. The best things to do in Athens should definitely cover sightseeing. Some of the most popular places include –
- Acropolis Museum
- Acropolis
- Plaka
- Parthenon
- Ancient Agora
- Erechtheion
- Benaki Museum
- Temple of Hephaestus
- Museum of Cycladic Art
- Herod Atticus Odeon
Where can I go for island hopping in Athens?
There are many island hopping tours in and around Athens which offer complete enjoyment and relaxation to you and your family. Some of the best island hopping tours in Athens include –
Athens – Paros Island tour
Athens – Mykonos Island tour
Athens – Santorini Island tour
Athens – Naxos Island tour
Athens – Corfu Island tour
Athens – Rhodes Island tour
Athens – Crete Island tour
Athens – Ios Island tour
You can also take trips to two or three of these islands at one go. Plan your trip according to your convenience.
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