Why should you know some of the Top Things to do in Athens? Athens is not just a city; it’s a living testament to a rich history that beckons you to explore. While you may be familiar with some of the most famous sights, such as the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum, a wealth of history is still waiting to be discovered in Athens, Greece.
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To help you plan your trip, we have curated a diverse list of the top Athens sightseeing spots. This list is not just about tourist attractions, but also about must-visit places and hidden gems. You will find fun day trips, neighborhoods, landmarks, sights, and attractions to cater to every interest. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s embark on a journey to discover the top things to do in Athens, Greece!
Recommended Athens Passes
Athens Pass
The Athens City Pass is the ultimate tourist card for exploring Athens. With one purchase, you can get skip-the-line access to all the essential attractions and museums in the city. Additionally, you can purchase all the tickets online. Buying individual tickets is quite expensive (e.g., Acropolis €20, Ancient Agora €10, Temple of Zeus €8, and Kerameikos €8). This city pass is highly recommended even if you plan to explore some of Athens’s culture. You can book your Athens Pass easily via this link, reserve your desired date, and receive your tickets via email or smartphone. The Athens City Pass includes free entry to museums and monuments, a two-day hop-on-hop-off bus ticket, and skip-the-line access to the Acropolis.
Athens Unlimited Attraction Pass
Access over 30 popular sites and attractions with this comprehensive pass for Athens. Enjoy skip-the-line privileges at some attractions and use the complimentary hop-on, hop-off buses to explore the city. 3- and 5-day pass holders can choose a free full-day tour to Delphi, Epidaurus & Mycenae, or a Poros-Hydra-Aegina Cruise. With 1, 2, 3, or 5-day passes, you can discover the best of Athens on your schedule. You can book it here.
Our List of The Top Things to Do in Athens
Breathe deep and take in the atmosphere.
Athens is not just a city; it’s an experience. It is a unique blend of edgy and traditional, urban and cool, intimate and welcoming. The streets pulse with a distinct energy that’s impossible to resist. This is Athens, a city that will transport you like nowhere else.
©By Daniella Garran, PGCert Archaeology & Heritage, MA Education, BA Art History
Visit the Acropolis
The Acropolis, the first on your list of Top Things to do in Athens, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greece. It stands majestically in the heart of Athens, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. As you ascend, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Parthenon, the Temple of Erechtheion, and the Nike Temple. These architectural marvels, steeped in centuries of history, offer breathtaking city views. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Athens City Pass or a combination ticket for seven archaeological areas in advance.
Admire treasures in the Acropolis Museum.
If you plan to visit the Acropolis, check out the Acropolis Museum at the mountain’s base. This museum houses a vast collection of excavated artifacts from the Acropolis, including archaeological remains of the various buildings and temples that once stood on the site. Some of the most notable Parthenon sculptures can also be found here. Additionally, the museum provides a wealth of information on the history of the Acropolis, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the area.
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Ancient Agora
The ancient Agora, once the beating heart of Athens, was more than just a collection of buildings, shops, and markets. It was a vibrant hub that united people and the government, a testament to the city’s past. The Temple of Hephaistos, a rare survivor, is adorned with images and inscriptions and was once used as a church. Today, the Museum of the Ancient Agora, housed in the Stoa of Attalus, continues to preserve and share this rich cultural heritage. Therefore, we included it on our list of the Top Things to do in Athens.
Pláka
When in Athens, a visit to the Plaka district is the first thing to do. Despite its popularity, it retains an authentic charm and vibrant atmosphere that immerses you in the local culture. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit the monuments, and experience the lively ambiance. There’s always something interesting happening here, and the traditional tavernas offer a taste of the local cuisine you want to experience!
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Monastiráki
Monastiraki Square, nestled in the heart of Athens, is not just a bustling spot but a vibrant hub that captures the city’s essence. The Monastiraki district, known for its liveliness, is a popular destination for tourists and locals. The area surrounding the square is home to several churches and museums, and if shopping is your thing, the large shopping street in Ermou is just a stone’s throw away. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Monastiraki Square is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a snack and drink, and soak in the local culture. Don’t miss the flea market every Sunday, a true treasure trove for bargain hunters.
Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora)
Why did we put this attraction on our Top Things to do in Athens? Firstly, this 19th-century public market is a great place to sample local delicacies, watch the produce being unloaded, and people-watch. The market is open every day except Sunday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.. It is known for its Greek specialties like olives, halloumi, and feta. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially around lunchtime. If you’re hungry, stop at Diporto restaurant, which has no menu but excellent food!
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Anafiótika
If you’re looking for peace in the bustling city, visiting the Anafiótika district near Plaka might help. This neighborhood comprises entirely of white houses, giving it the look and feel of a typical Greek island. Unlike Plaka, you won’t find as many tourists here, making it more serene. Additionally, the area is significantly quieter, and locals primarily inhabit it. You can also visit viewpoints in this district to take stunning pictures. That’s why it should be on your list of the Top Things to do in Athens.
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Discover the Nightlife in the districts of Gázi or Psyri.
If you’re looking for things to do in Athens at night, the Gázi district is worth checking out. This district has a bustling nightlife and is one of the best areas to spend your evening. Although there isn’t much to do during the day, it transforms into an excellent district once the sun sets. Another great neighborhood to visit is Psirri (also known as Psyri), popular among young people and hipsters. This alternative neighborhood has a cozy atmosphere and many alternative shops. During the day, you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the numerous street artworks.
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Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, Greece, was initially built to host the Panathenaic Games. The stadium was reconstructed in 1896 for the first modern Olympic games. Today, it is a landmark that can accommodate up to 80,000 people and has been used for various sports ceremonies. However, it is now primarily a tourist attraction where visitors can learn more about the history of the Olympics.
Shop at Monastiraki Flea Market
The Monastiraki Flea Market in central Athens is open on Saturdays and is a great place to shop for bargains. Traders sell various items such as vintage clothing, mid-century furniture, and bric-a-brac. You might find hidden treasures or learn how modern Greeks have furnished their homes over the past 60 years.
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Watch the guard change in Syntagma Square.
Syntagma Square in Athens is a bustling location and home to the parliament building and the TombTomb of the Unknown Soldier. The soldiers guarding the TombTomb change every hour, and on Sundays, there’s an elaborate ceremony. The metro station in Syntagma Square is the most beautiful in Athens and has archaeological finds. Witness the ceremonial changing of the guard dressed in traditional Evzone costume.
National Garden of Athens
The National Garden of Athens, also known as Zappeion Park, is a large park in the center of Athens. It is located near the parliament building and some museums. Within the gardens, one can find various objects and ruins. It is a perfect place to take a stroll and appreciate nature. The park is a green and woody area, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. You will find the old Panathenaic stadium on the other side of the park. If you’re looking for a relaxing break, Athens, Greece, is one of the perfect places to visit.
Sightseeing: Day trips from Athens
If you want to explore more of Greece during your visit to Athens, booking a day trip to the area’s top attractions is best. You’ll be accompanied by a guide and fellow travelers visiting different sights. Some popular options include the Meteora monasteries, the Delphi excavations, the Temple of Poseidon, or a boat trip to the Saronic Islands. You can make the most of your holiday by booking an excursion, especially if you stay in Athens for over two days. Check out this article for an overview of the Best Day Trips from Athens.
Part of the Vouliagmeni peninsula with its sandy beaches, lush pine trees, and the luxurious Astir Beach Club.
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Hit the beaches of the Apollo Coast.
If you want to escape the heat of Athens during the hot summer months, you can head to the beach. The Palaio Faliro neighborhood is accessible by taking the A1 tram. Enjoy a palm tree-lined promenade and a soft, sandy beach here.
For those looking for a more upscale experience, the Apollo Coast is located further south in the suburbs of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni. Plenty of luxury beach clubs are available if you want to take a break from sightseeing. During the off-season, Vouliagmeni is also known for its growing surf scene.
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Creator: Borislav Stefanov|
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Copyright: Borislav Stefanov