30 Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, pulses with a unique energy where ancient wonders stand alongside vibrant modern life. Planning your trip means exploring must-see ancient sites in Athens, wandering charming historic neighborhoods, enjoying the local cafe culture, and discovering the rewarding free things to do in Athens available amidst its storied streets. This city offers layers of history and culture waiting to be uncovered.
From climbing the Acropolis to savoring local flavors, Athens provides a rich tapestry of experiences. This guide presents 30 diverse activities, blending world-famous landmarks with authentic local encounters. Use it to shape your Athenian adventure and truly connect with the spirit of this legendary capital.
Ancient Wonders and Archaeological Sites
Ascend the Acropolis, the sacred rock crowned with architectural masterpieces from Greece’s Golden Age. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Stand in awe before the Parthenon, the iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena located atop the Acropolis. Its enduring structure remains a powerful symbol of ancient Greek achievement and democracy.
Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens, the heart of public life in the ancient city, located northwest of the Acropolis. Wander among the ruins of temples, stoas, and the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus.
Visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds, an adjacent marketplace built later, featuring an octagonal marble clocktower. This area shows the continuation of civic life under Roman rule.
Marvel at the colossal ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Its towering columns offer a sense of the structure’s original grand scale.
Walk through Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery of Athens located northwest of the Acropolis. Discover remnants of the city walls, the Sacred Gate, and elaborate funerary monuments.
See the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, a grand structure built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian near the Roman Agora. Imagine its past life as a center of learning with lecture halls and reading rooms.
Discover the Theatre of Dionysus on the southern slope of the Acropolis, considered the birthplace of Greek tragedy. Stand in the ancient orchestra where plays by Sophocles and Euripides were first performed.
Admire the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a beautifully restored Roman stone theatre located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis. It still hosts performances during the Athens Festival in summer.
Museums and Cultural Insights
Visit the modern Acropolis Museum, located at the foot of the Acropolis hill, housing artifacts found on the sacred rock. Its stunning design and glass floors revealing excavations below make it a must-visit destination.
Explore the vast collections of the National Archaeological Museum, one of the world’s great museums dedicated to ancient Greek art. See treasures spanning millennia, from prehistoric artifacts to Roman sculptures.
Delve into Greek history and art at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, housed in a beautiful neoclassical mansion. Its exhibits trace Greek civilization from prehistory through modern times.
Admire the elegant simplicity of ancient Aegean art at the Museum of Cycladic Art. See distinctive marble figurines and learn about the cultures of the Cycladic islands from the 3rd millennium BC.
Discover art and artifacts from the 4th to the 19th century at the Byzantine and Christian Museum. Explore icons, sculptures, textiles, and mosaics illustrating the Byzantine heritage.
Neighborhood Explorations
Wander the charming streets of the Plaka District, nestled below the Acropolis, known for its neoclassical architecture, souvenir shops, and traditional tavernas. Getting lost in its labyrinthine alleys is part of the fun.
Explore the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market area, brimming with shops selling antiques, crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially on Sunday mornings when the market expands.
Discover the hidden island village of Anafiotika, tucked beneath the Acropolis walls. Its whitewashed, cubic houses resemble Cycladic architecture, built by workers from the island of Anafi.
Stroll through the vibrant Psyrri neighborhood, known for its street art, artisan workshops, trendy bars, and traditional tavernas. It offers a more bohemian and local atmosphere compared to Plaka.
Views and Relaxation Spots
Climb Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in central Athens, for unbeatable panoramic views of the city, the Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea. Take the funicular or hike up for a rewarding experience, especially at sunset.
Hike up Philopappos Hill, located southwest of the Acropolis, offering excellent views back towards the Parthenon. Find the Philopappos Monument at the summit and enjoy the surrounding parkland.
Relax in the National Garden behind the Greek Parliament building in Syntagma Square. Find shade under mature trees, discover small ponds, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Watch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard by the Evzones (Presidential Guard) in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Syntagma Square. This display happens every hour, with a more elaborate ceremony on Sunday mornings.
Food and Drink Experiences
Take a Greek food tour to sample local delicacies like olives, cheese, koulouri (sesame bread rings), and learn about Greek culinary traditions. Several tours explore different neighborhoods and markets.
Visit the vibrant Central Market (Varvakios Agora) to experience the local hustle and bustle. Explore the meat, fish, and produce sections, and find simple eateries serving fresh market fare.
Embrace Athens’ thriving coffee culture by relaxing at an outdoor cafe in areas like Kolonaki or Agia Irini Square. Enjoy a freddo espresso or cappuccino while people-watching.
Taste classic Greek street food like souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) and gyros (meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in pita). Find numerous small shops selling these delicious and affordable bites.
Try creamy Greek yogurt, often served simply with honey and walnuts. It’s a staple of the Greek diet and makes for a perfect breakfast or light snack.
Unique Activities
Attend a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus during the summer Athens & Epidaurus Festival (check schedule). Experiencing music or theatre in this ancient venue is truly magical.
Take a day trip to Cape Sounion to see the majestic Temple of Poseidon perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. Sunset visits are particularly popular for the stunning views.
Experience a traditional Greek night at a taverna in Plaka featuring live folk music (bouzouki) and dancing. Enjoy classic Greek dishes while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
