Athens must be some of the iconic locations I’ve visited! It’s steeped in historical historical past, full of scrumptious meals choices, and limitless issues to see and do. I’m a historical past buffs, so seeing the imposing Acropolis for the primary time was an unimaginable feeling!
Whether or not you’re into historical historical past or not, Athens is a enjoyable metropolis to go to. With its gritty vibe, and stark distinction between trendy and historical, Athens is a singular European capital.
This listing will allow you to resolve what to do in Athens throughout your time right here – irrespective of how lengthy your go to is. I’ll share a mixture of historical past, meals, purchasing, nightlife & distinctive issues to do in Athens. I like this metropolis, that is undoubtedly among the finest locations to go to in Greece.
I’ve been to Athens quite a few instances, and can most likely be visiting once more this yr! Should you’re flying in, Athens will most certainly be your first cease in Greece. Spend a few days having fun with the town earlier than heading to one of many dreamy Greek Islands.
Right here’s my listing of the most effective issues to do in Athens, Greece.
1. Climb to the Acropolis
The primary time I noticed the Acropolis, my jaw dropped. Irrespective of what number of historical websites you’ve seen, seeing the Acropolis towering over the town is fairly particular!
To be clear, the Acropolis is all the metropolis on the hill – not one explicit wreck. It’s devoted to the goddess Athena, and a go to to the Fifth-century Acropolis is the most well-liked factor to do in Athens – by far.
After all, which means everybody needs to go there, together with guests from cruise ships. My recommendation is to get there early. The archaeological website itself opens at 8:00am and the cruise ship passengers arrive round 10 am.
Most individuals go to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon however there are a number of different issues to see on the hill, together with the Erechtheion, the Arrhephorion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
From the Acropolis, you may see a lot of Athens and may see all the way in which to the ocean. The doorway price is €30.
To study all of necessary websites and the unimaginable historical past, I recommend becoming a member of a strolling tour. The tour can even take you to the museum (beneath).
There are a couple of several types of excursions you may take, however click on right here to study extra a couple of highly-rated, skip-the-line tour. Plus, you may reserve now and pay later, which is nice as solely a certain quantity of persons are allowed to go to the Acropolis every day. Cancellation is obtainable as much as 24 hours earlier than the tour. That is nice when you’re not totally certain of your plans but.
2. Go to the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is likely one of the most lovely museums I’ve ever been to. I liked my expertise right here! It’s full of pure mild, which highlights the artifacts properly.
Right here you will get a detailed take a look at the Parthenon frieze replicas on show, and rather more historical Greek artwork. The cafe balcony additionally provides nice views of historical ruins in Athens. You may study extra concerning the Acropolis on my weblog.
Both earlier than or after you go to the Acropolis, you should go to the Acropolis Museum – test in case your guided tour consists of the museum, most of them do.
It’s not removed from the doorway of the Acropolis and the doorway price is €20. BUT, when you go to on considered one of nowadays, it’s free: March sixth (Melina Mercouri Day), March twenty fifth (Nationwide vacation), Could 18th (Worldwide Day of Museums), October twenty eighth (Nationwide vacation).
Line-ups right here will be enormous, to skip the road, buy your ticket forward of time right here. Alternatively, you should purchase an all-inclusive ticket for each the museum and the Acropolis right here.
3. See Hadrian’s Library
This library is just not a library within the sense we all know it right now, it was a spot of examine, not a spot the place books had been lent.
In Greek Antiquity, Hadrian’s Library was constructed round 132 AD for housing paperwork and studying rooms. There’s not a lot left however you may clearly see the structure of the library and there’s glorious signage.
The doorway price is €4 ($4.70). Hadrian’s Library is a small museum situated within the Monastiraki neighborhood not removed from the Acropolis and the Monastiraki flea market, and is a part of many Greek Mythology Excursions.
4. See the Decorations at Little KooK
I found Little KooK on my most up-to-date journey to Athens. Every vacation season it’s adorned inside and outdoors the restaurant. Once I was there it was adorned for Halloween.
Little KooK is principally a dessert cafe, however the prime attraction is the decorations. This some of the whimsical locations I’ve been, and might be essentially the most Instagrammable place in Athens moreover the Acropolis! Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
💡 Professional Tip: Should you’re in Athens for some time, you may choose up a MegaPass Athens Metropolis Cross. With it, you may skip the fluff and head straight to the highlights – the Acropolis, Parthenon, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, audio guides, and extra. It’s all included, no further charges. Only one go for the total Athens expertise.
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5. Take a Road Artwork Tour
It’s true, Athens is a little bit of a gritty metropolis, however with that, comes some unimaginable avenue artwork. I loved wandering across the Plaka space and snapping pictures of the artwork. And sure, the road artwork in Athens ranges from common graffiti tags, to some unimaginable items.
Whereas you could find a lot of it by yourself within the Plaka space, it’s finest to go along with a neighborhood who can present you round and clarify the story behind the artwork. This tour reveals you round 5 cool neighborhoods which can be lesser identified to vacationers.
Becoming a member of a avenue artwork tour is the easiest way to get off the overwhelmed path, and study extra concerning the metropolis. That is my choose for one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Athens.
6. Go Bar Hopping
For such a enjoyable metropolis, it’s no shock that among the finest issues to do in Athens at night time is to go bar hopping. Try Psiri (Psyrri) for the general finest nightlife, Kolonaki for extra upscale nights out, and Gazi for golf equipment/partying.
You are able to do like I did and wander round, stopping in at locations that seemed busy, or if you wish to meet individuals and study a bit concerning the metropolis, you may be a part of a meals and booze tour.
With this enjoyable, native expertise, you’ll discover 3 completely different areas of Athens, and go to 3 completely different bars there, whereas having fun with drinks, meals, and nice dialog with new mates.
A bar hopping tour is likely one of the finest methods to get pleasure from Athens nightlife, particularly when you’re on a fast journey.
All the tables are reserved forward of time, so that you received’t have to attend in line in any respect. Should you’re on the lookout for cool issues to do in Athens at night time, this can be a good possibility. Discover out extra right here.
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7. Eat The Greatest Yogurtlu and Souvlaki
O Thanasis is likely one of the hottest locations to eat in Plaka. It’s so well-liked that even Greeks eat right here. One of the best factor to eat is the Yogurtlu, which is a beef kebab coated in yogurt on a mattress of pita bread.
The Yogurtlu is massive sufficient to separate with somebody and it’ll set you again round €15. The individuals at O Thanasis are pleasant and never pushy.
I feel the souvlaki can be among the finest on the town. Should you don’t make it right here, it’s also possible to get some scrumptious souvlaki at lots of a flea markets and markets on the town.
8. Smash Issues at Limba Rage Room
Feeling a bit of wired? Have to get some rage out? Limba Rage Room is the place to just do that.
You buy a package deal (which may embrace plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and also you smash them! It’s an ideal stress reliever and some of the distinctive issues to do in Athens.
There are a selection of packages for each price range. They vary from €10 to €100. Don’t fear, they offer you protecting gear to put on. It’s situated simply down the road from Little KooK.
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9. Drink a Greek Espresso
I like getting my freddo repair when in Greece! Sampling a freddo cappuccino is likely one of the must-do issues in Athens. This is only one of three basic Greek coffees, there’s additionally a frappe and a freddo espresso.
The frappe is just not like a Starbucks frappe however as an alternative is made with immediate espresso, water, and sugar (when you select).
The freddo cappuccino is espresso topped with frothy milk (which is my favorite).
The freddo espresso is simply swirled espresso over ice. All of those coffees pack a severe caffeine punch however since they’re all served chilly, it’s nice on a scorching day in Athens.
Espresso tradition in Greece is a really massive deal. Not solely do locals drink espresso (scorching or chilly) quite a few instances all through the day, however as legend would have it, your fortune will be advised by studying the dregs of espresso left on the backside of your cup.
The following time you’ve completed consuming your espresso in Athens, be sure to ask somebody to point out you methods to learn your fortune.
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10. Store in The Plaka
The Plaka is a neighborhood situated beneath the Acropolis with charming streets and outlets. Wandering round right here is an effective way to spend a couple of hours. A lot of this space has been closed off to site visitors, though supply vans nonetheless are allowed by way of and a few streets are open.
The chain shops and extra upscale outlets are on Ermou Road – the place you could find outlets like Sephora and H&M.
Then there are vacationer outlets, a flea market, and lower-end outlets, that are additional down previous Monastiraki Sq.. Right here you could find souvenirs you may wish to deliver dwelling in your family and friends. Plus, this can be a nice space for people-watching.
12. Watch the Altering of The Guard
Should you’re in Athens on a Sunday, you received’t wish to miss the ceremonial Altering of the Guard. The army guards change each hour, however on Sundays at 11:00am, they placed on an elaborate present with conventional uniforms.
The Altering of the Guard takes place at Syntagma Sq. on the Parliament Constructing. One of the best place to view it from is the Presidential Mansion. This is likely one of the finest free issues to do in Athens.
I went on a Sunday and it was undoubtedly the most effective time to see it. They might look a bit of uncommon, however belief me, they’re extremely educated troopers referred to as the Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Go to Monastiraki Sq.
Should you sit in Monastiraki Sq. lengthy sufficient, I swear you will notice everybody in Athens stroll by. That is the place to look at vacationers and locals work together.
Additionally it is a historic website with a Ninth-century church, a Nineteenth-century mosque, and within the subway station are antiques discovered throughout the constructing of the primary metro station.
This is likely one of the most bustling locations in Athens and chilling out right here is likely one of the finest issues to do. Whilst you’re right here, try the Monastiraki flea market.
14. Get Customized Made Greek Sandals
While you’re purchasing within the Plaka, you should definitely cease at Pantelis Melissions The Poet Sandalmaker for a pair of custom-made Greek sandals. This store has been round since 1920 and has been handed down from technology to technology.
You may get a basic pair in fundamental leather-based or get a elaborate pair with decorations or metallics. The costs vary from €40 to €50.
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15. Eat Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greek donuts. It’s a small puff pastry that’s soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. I had one with sesame seeds as soon as too. They’re scrumptious.
One of the best place in Athens to get loukoumades is on the aptly named (and tremendous extremely rated) Lukumades. It’s not removed from O Thanasis so after consuming your kebab you may have a donut for dessert!
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16. Watch the Sundown at Lycabettus Hill
Watching the sundown from Lycabettus Hill is likely one of the finest issues to do in Athens. Not solely is the sundown beautiful, however you get wonderful views of Athens from right here. You too can see the Acropolis all lit up for the night.
Earlier than you head out to benefit from the Athens nightlife, take into account climbing Lycabettus for a pleasant sundown and possibly even a picnic.
There’s a funicular to take you up and down when you don’t wish to climb the hill. The price for the funicular is €13 return or €10 for a one-way ticket. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
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17. Be a part of a Strolling Meals Tour
Not all of the excursions in Athens are about historical past. Should you love Greek meals like I do (and truthfully, who doesn’t?!), try this enjoyable, informative, and engaging tour! It’s one of many highest-rated excursions in Athens.
Meet up along with your information and uncover some unimaginable avenue meals distributors and native markets, all whereas strolling off the meals and studying about Athens and Greece alongside the way in which.
You’ll eat your manner by way of bakeries, cheese and meat outlets, fish market, espresso outlets, and lots of shops providing world-famous Greek yogurt, natural olive oil, honey and wine.
Included within the tour are many tasty Greek delicacies, so come hungry! Should you’re on the lookout for non-touristy issues to do in Athens, this can be a nice possibility – it’s additionally among the finest worth experiences within the metropolis. Discover out extra and reserve your spot right here.
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18. Eat Gyros
You may’t come to Athens and never have a basic gyro. They’re obtainable virtually in every single place and you may have enjoyable looking for the most effective one. A seek for your favourite gyro is likely one of the finest issues to do in Athens for foodies.
I’ve eaten my justifiable share of gyro, which consists of hen or lamb, french fries, onions, and tomatoes all wrapped up in delicate pita bread. Generally you may get them organized open-faced on a plate.
They’re fairly massive, so when you’ve carried out tons of strolling that is the meal for you. Try Kostas or Scrumptious Souvlaki for tasty gyros.
19. Stroll By means of the Historical Agora
Historical Agora is a cemetery situated proper down the hill from the Acropolis. It was constructed as a market after Athens turned a part of the Roman Empire within the 1st century.
Once I was on the Roman Agora, it was very empty making a pleasant change from the crowds of the Acropolis. It’s a pleasant place to discover.
Nevertheless, there’s not a lot signage on the Historical Agora so you’ll have to lookup the historical past if you get there. The doorway price has elevated over time and is now €20. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
20. Discover the Athens Central Market
The Central Market (Varvakios Agora) is a basic outside market with shouting distributors and all of the smells that come together with it.
I found it once I stayed in a lodge proper out there. The fruits in Greece look and odor wonderful so even when you don’t purchase something it’s nonetheless an ideal place to go to.
The opposite factor to notice is that many of the distributors don’t converse English, however you may level to objects that you just’re inquisitive about and use signal language (or a translation app).
There’s additionally meat and fish when you’re in self-catering lodging. I liked this market as a result of it felt like such an authentically Greek expertise. Click on right here for a enjoyable market tour right here which incorporates tastings and drinks.
Both manner, a go to to the bustling market is likely one of the stuff you shouldn’t miss in Athens. Discover it on the map, right here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
Should you’re an animal particular person, there are a couple of volunteer choices so that you can assist out with deserted and stray animals. Take a look at ZEIL, SGS or SCARS the place you may help with strolling and caring for canines and cats.
This will not be one of many extra touristy issues to do in Athens, however you probably have some further time, or if you want to assist out, it’s undoubtedly one of many extra rewarding actions in Athens.
22. Go to the Panagia Kapnikarea Church
Constructed within the eleventh century, this is likely one of the oldest church buildings in Athens. The fascinating factor about this Greek Orthodox church is that it’s surrounded by trendy buildings! You’ll find it right here on the map.
23. Be a part of a Cooking Class with Rooftop Dinner
It’s at all times enjoyable to hitch cooking courses around the globe. You get to speak with the chef concerning the nation and delicacies, and meet different travellers.
Discover ways to make some conventional Greek meals throughout this enjoyable cooking class. You’ll make (and eat), a starter, predominant dish, salad, dessert, and native dips. Plus, wine is included.
Chat with the chef and your new mates whereas eating on tasty meals that you just ready, and having fun with the view from the rooftop of the Acropolis – truthfully, simply the view itself is price it! Discover out extra about this highly-rated cooking expertise in Athens right here.
24. Get Misplaced in The Athens Metropolis Heart
The Metropolis Heart of Athens is vigorous, bustling, and a bit tough across the edges, nevertheless it’s a improbable place to get misplaced amongst the traditional websites.
By foot, you may simply discover the middle by beginning across the historical websites of the Acropolis and Plaka, then strolling to Monastiraki Sq. on the foot of the Acropolis, then persevering with to Psirri district and Ermou avenue earlier than ending at Kolonaki.
Additionally, don’t miss the Historical Greek Nationwide Gardens and strolling down among the lesser-known fascinating streets within the metropolis heart.
25. Go to The Panathenaic Stadium
You most likely already know that Greece is dwelling to the unique Olympic Video games – so that you don’t wish to miss the unique stadium!
The Panathenaic Stadium was in-built 330 BC and later expanded into a completely marble enviornment that hosted the primary trendy Olympics in 1896 and once more in 2004.
Attempt to time your go to for the Athens Marathon, which follows he legendary 42 km route of Pheidippides. It could be unimaginable to look at runners cross the end line in such a historic setting. Click on right here for the dates of the Marathon.
Day Journeys from Athens
You probably have extra time within the metropolis, take a look at these enjoyable day journeys.
1. Hydra Island
You may nonetheless go to a Greek island whereas in your journey to Athens!
Hydra is a small island that permits no vehicles. Many of the issues to do are situated proper within the port together with eating places and purchasing. There’s even a swimming spot a five-minute stroll away.
Hydra is about an hour’s ferry trip away when you take the quick ferry. The price is about €80 return. You catch the ferry at Piraeus port. Spend the day in Hydra and be again in Athens for dinner. Search the ferry schedule and newest costs right here.
An alternative choice is to be a part of a day tour that takes you to Hydra and features a information and 4 hours of free time on the island. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Crusing Journey
One in all my favourite issues to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek Islands. You may be a part of a crusing journey that lasts all day, or take a half-day tour. You may even sail to among the islands.
Most of those sails are on catamarans making it simpler for the non-sailor to regulate their sea legs. This is likely one of the finest methods to loosen up in Greece. Click on right here for a top-rated crusing journey (on an precise sailboat) that takes you to Agistri, Moni & Aegina.
Or, when you’d favor a catamaran journey in Athens that features meals and drinks, and two stops for swimming, click on right here for particulars.
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3. Temple of Poseidon
The beautiful historical Temple of Poseidon sits on the Aegean Sea and was constructed within the Fifth century. An inscription on the temple confirms that it was constructed for Poseidon.
It’s best to attempt to be right here early within the morning or for sundown. You may typically see a number of islands on a transparent day from the temple.
There’s a bus from Athens from the Mavromateon Terminal and it’s also possible to get it from Syntagma Sq.. Search for the bus going to Sounio. The bus fare one-way is €6.90.
Should you’d moderately be a part of a tour and never have to fret about transportation, try this highly-rated half-day tour to Poseidon.
FAQs About Athens
Listed below are solutions to some generally requested questions on visiting the town.
What Ought to I Keep away from in Athens?
In terms of areas of Athens, Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi, and Kolokotroni Squares have excessive crime charges and needs to be averted at night time, if not altogether. Ensure to regulate your purse and pockets when visiting Athens in addition to there are pickpockets round.
Becoming a member of a strolling tour with a neighborhood if you first arrive in Athens is an effective way to get a rundown of the town and the do’s and don’ts.
Are you able to Do Athens in 3 Days?
Sure! You may undoubtedly go to Athens in a day, on two day journeys, a weekend, or in 3 days. You’ll be capable to cowl the entire predominant highlights in simply a few days, and on the third day, you may be a part of a enjoyable expertise (cooking class, wine tasting), or take a day journey by ferry or bus.
The place to Keep in Athens
You’ll wish to keep central when visiting Athens, and goal to be inside strolling distance of the Acropolis, Plaka and Syntagma Sq.. Whether or not you select a lodge or condo is as much as you – some individuals favor motels with a easy room, whereas others favor flats with a residing space and a kitchen.
This condo has glorious evaluations and views of the Acropolis, whereas this condo is in Plaka and likewise has unimaginable views plus a number of pure mild. For motels, the Electra Metropolis is a very talked-about possibility and it consists of breakfast, a rooftop bar, and glorious views.
What’s the easiest way of getting round Athens?
One of the simplest ways to get round Athens is by foot utilizing Google Maps. If it’s good to go exterior of the principle areas, you may catch a bus or seize a rideshare.
How a lot does it value to enter the websites in Athens?
Entrance charges in Athens typically value between €15-€20 for the most well-liked websites.
What’s the finest lodge with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Electra Resort has the nicest rooftop pool in all of Athens with an ideal bar, beautiful views, and loads of areas to sit down and loosen up.
What’s the smartest thing to do in Athens on a wet day?
One of the best factor to do in Athens on a wet day is to go to one of many many museums, like The Conflict Museum. Or try one of many Byzantine church buildings, eat at among the nice eating places with an incredible view, or go to throughout the Summer time months when rain is much less doubtless.
Now You Know What To Do in Athens
As you may see there are such a lot of issues to do in Athens. You may even make a theme for every day you might be there – exploring all of the meals choices, seeing all of the archaeology and historical archaeological websites round, and aimlessly exploring and seeing what you may uncover! I at all times love spending time in Athens, and I’m certain you’ll as properly.
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