10 Best Things to Do in Athens: Top Tourist Attractions
Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, blends ancient wonders with modern energy. Its streets tell stories of the past and present. From March to November, golden sunshine bathes the city, perfect for history and culture lovers.
The Greek capital offers a wide range of activities and attractions. You can explore iconic ruins or browse bustling markets. Every corner of Athens promises unforgettable experiences for visitors.
The Acropolis Museum showcases parts of the Parthenon, including its pediment and Caryatids. The Ancient Agora was once where Socrates shared his wisdom. These historical gems are just the beginning of Athens’ rich tapestry.
Let’s explore the top 10 must-see spots that make Athens a treasure trove for travelers.
Explore the Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. This rocky hill draws nearly three million visitors each year. It’s a must-see spot for those exploring Athens.
Visit the Parthenon
The Parthenon is the Acropolis’ crown jewel. This grand temple honors Athena, built between 447-438 BC. It features 136 Doric columns, each 10.5 meters tall.
The temple’s design creates an illusion of perfect balance. This shows the architectural genius of ancient Greeks.
Check Out the Acropolis Museum
After exploring the hilltop, visit the nearby Acropolis Museum. Opened in 2009, it displays over 4,000 artifacts. These include sculptures and friezes from the Parthenon.
The museum offers a journey through time. It brings the site’s rich history to life.
Discover the Ancient Agora
Below the Acropolis lies the Ancient Agora. It was once the center of Athenian democracy and commerce. Here, you’ll see ruins of ancient buildings.
Imagine the bustling marketplace that once thrived in this expansive site.
To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:
- Purchase a special package ticket for €30, valid for 5 days and includes access to multiple archaeological sites.
- Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid crowds.
- Allow at least two hours to explore the Acropolis thoroughly.
- For the best weather, plan your trip in spring (March-May) or fall (September-October).
Stroll Through Plaka
Plaka, Athens’ oldest district, nestles at the Acropolis’ foot. This charming area mixes history with modern Greek life. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience in this special neighborhood.
Enjoy Traditional Greek Cuisine
Plaka offers many athens restaurants, from fancy eateries to cozy tavernas. Daphne’s and Ermion serve gourmet Greek dishes. Platanos and Diogenis offer authentic taverna experiences.
For budget-friendly options, try Elaia or Vakxos. Meal costs vary, with main street cafes charging more for prime locations.
Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Plaka’s walkable streets are full of shops selling Greek items. Apriati offers trendy jewelry, while Ippolito specializes in handmade designer handbags. Art lovers can find original bronze artifacts at Aidinis on Nikis Street.
In summer, a flea market on Adrianou and Kydathineon streets offers bargain deals.
Experience Local Nightlife
At night, Plaka becomes a lively center of athens nightlife. Wine fans can visit Oinoscent on Voulis Street for its chic atmosphere. Kimolia art cafe on Yperidou Street offers jazz and Latin music.
Vrettos, a traditional distillery on Kydathineon Street, provides a retro vibe. Hard Rock on Filellinon Street is popular for late-night fun.
| Attraction | Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Daphne’s Restaurant | Upscale Dining | €€€ |
| Platanos Taverna | Traditional Dining | €€ |
| Apriati Jewelry | Shopping | €€€ |
| Flea Market | Shopping | € |
| Oinoscent Wine Bar | Nightlife | €€ |
| Hard Rock | Nightlife | €€€ |
Visit the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is a gem among Athens museums. It houses over 11,000 exhibits across 8,000 square meters. This museum offers a journey through 7,000 years of Greek art and culture.
Explore Ancient Artifacts
The museum’s collections are vast and varied. The Sculpture Collection boasts 16,000 pieces. The Prehistoric Collection spans from the 7th millennium to 1050 BC.
The Bronze Collection features finds from late 19th and early 20th-century excavations. Each artifact tells a unique story of ancient Greece.
Discover Greek History
The Mask of Agamemnon, from the 16th century BCE, reveals Mycenaean burial practices. A life-size statue of Emperor Augustus dates back to 12-10 BCE.
These pieces bring ancient Greek history to life. They offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Greece.
Plan Your Visit
To fully appreciate the museum, consider multiple visits. It can take 3 to 4 trips to see everything on display.
Start with the Vase and Minor Arts Collection, featuring 6,000 objects. Then explore the Egyptian and Cypriot Antiquities on later visits.
| Collection | Number of Items | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Sculpture | 16,000 | Various periods |
| Prehistoric | Numerous | 7th millennium – 1050 BC |
| Vase and Minor Arts | 6,000 | Various periods |
| Cypriot Antiquities | 850 | 2500 BC – 4th century AD |
| Egyptian | Numerous | 5000 BC – Roman period |
Experience Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus rises 277 meters above sea level in Athens. This natural balcony offers stunning views of the city. It’s a must-see spot for your Athens adventure.
Take the Funicular to the Top
Begin your journey with a funicular ride up the hill. This short, steep ascent builds excitement for the view ahead. As you climb, the busy city fades away.
Enjoy Stunning Views of the City
At the top, Athens spreads out like a living map. You can see the Acropolis and the Saronic Gulf. Visit at sunset for a magical experience.
Watch the fading light paint the city gold and pink. City lights start to twinkle as darkness falls.
Visit the Chapel of St. George
Don’t miss the charming 19th-century Chapel of St. George at the summit. This small, white church adds peace to your visit.
After exploring, try Greek dishes at the Lycabettus Restaurant. They serve moussaka and Greek salad.
Mount Lycabettus blends nature, history, and amazing views. It’s a key stop on your Athens tour. This ‘Hill of Wolves’ promises a memorable experience.
Discover the Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora is a captivating historical site in Athens. It sits between Thissio and Monastiraki, once the heart of Athenian public life. Excavations started in 1859, uncovering layers of history.
View the Temple of Hephaestus
The Temple of Hephaestus, built in 449 BC, is the Agora’s crown jewel. It’s Greece’s best-preserved ancient temple with sturdy Doric columns. This marvel showcases the skill of ancient Greek craftsmen.
Walk Through the Stoa of Attalos
The rebuilt Stoa of Attalos now houses the Agora Museum. Built between 159 and 138 BC, this colonnade displays artifacts from ancient Athens. Exhibits range from pottery to voting tokens, revealing daily life in democracy’s birthplace.
The Ancient Agora opens daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Adult entry costs 8 euros, with discounts available. Consider a combined ticket for other Athens historical sites.
Many Athens tours include the Agora, offering expert insights into this ancient wonder.
Relax in the National Garden
The National Garden is a peaceful oasis in Athens’ busy center. This 15-hectare green space offers a serene escape for locals and tourists. It’s one of the most refreshing activities in Athens.
Enjoy a Peaceful Escape
Wander through shaded paths lined with rare plants in this tranquil world. Queen Amalia designed the garden in 1838, adding small lakes and a mini zoo.
It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet picnic. The garden provides cool relief from summer heat after exploring Athens.
Check Out the Zappeion Hall
Don’t miss the impressive Zappeion Hall while exploring the garden. This neoclassical marvel showcases Athens’ rich history and architectural beauty.
Originally built for the Olympic Games, it now hosts important events. The hall adds grandeur to your garden visit.
| National Garden Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Over 15 hectares |
| Established | 1838 |
| Attractions | Rare plants, small lakes, mini zoo |
| Notable Structure | Zappeion Hall |
The National Garden balances Athens’ historical sites and urban excitement. It’s ideal for recharging before exploring more city attractions.
This green space offers calm moments and outdoor enjoyment. The garden is a must-visit among Athens’ many attractions.
Check Out Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is a must-see stop in Athens. This vibrant plaza is the city’s largest and serves as its beating heart. Here, history and modern life collide in a captivating display.
Witness the Changing of the Guard
The star attraction is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Every hour, the Evzones perform their solemn duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Their slow-motion march and eye-catching uniforms never fail to mesmerize onlookers.
Visit the Greek Parliament Building
The grand Hellenic Parliament Building overlooks the square. Built in 1842, it’s been the seat of Greek democracy since 1934. Free guided tours are available twice a week.
Remember to book these tours in advance!
| Syntagma Square Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Changing of the Guard | Hourly, with extended Sunday performance at 11 am |
| Parliament Tours | Mondays and Fridays at 3 pm, free with reservation |
| Nearby Attraction | National Garden (24 hectares, 500+ plant species) |
| Average Visitor Time | 15-30 minutes for Guard Ceremony |
Syntagma Square offers a slice of Greek life. Grab a coffee and find a spot on the steps. Soak in the atmosphere and people-watch.
It’s the perfect starting point for exploring other nearby athens attractions or joining a city walking tour.
Experience the Athenian Riviera
The Athenian Riviera is a must-see attraction near Athens. This coastal paradise stretches 60 km from Paleo Faliro to Cape Sounio. It offers golden beaches, clear waters, and various activities for all visitors.
Spend Time at Vouliagmeni Beach
Vouliagmeni Beach is a top spot on the Athenian Riviera. Its clean sands and blue flag status make it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Nearby, you’ll find Vouliagmeni Lake, known for its mineral-rich waters.
Try Water Sports and Activities
The Riviera is great for water sports fans. Alimos Marina hosts 1,080 boats for sailing adventures. Varkiza Beach has volleyball courts and play areas for active visitors.
Voula offers two long, organized beaches for relaxation and fun. At Anavyssos, you can try windsurfing in the crystal-clear waters.
| Beach | Features | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Vouliagmeni | Blue flag status, nearby mineral lake | Swimming, sunbathing |
| Varkiza | Organized facilities | Volleyball, children’s play areas |
| Voula | Two long beaches, blue flag status | Swimming, water sports |
| Anavyssos | Golden sands, crystal blue waters | Windsurfing, dining at tavernas |
End your day with a scenic drive to Cape Sounio. Here, you can see the Temple of Poseidon during a stunning sunset. The Athenian Riviera blends natural beauty, water fun, and history.
Explore the Byzantine and Christian Museum
The Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens showcases Greece’s rich religious heritage. Founded in 1914, it offers a journey through centuries of Christian art and culture.
Discover Byzantine Artifacts
The museum is housed in the elegant Villa Ilissia, built between 1840 and 1848. It boasts a collection of over 25,000 exhibits from the 3rd century AD to today.
Visitors can admire intricate icons and stunning frescoes. The underground wing, opened in 2007, provides ample space for displaying treasures.
Learn About Christian History
The museum’s narrative spans from the Byzantine Empire’s rise to Constantinople’s fall in 1453. Audio tours in multiple languages guide visitors through sculptures, jewelry, and rare manuscripts.
Located near Syntagma Square, the museum is easily accessible for athens tours. Its tranquil gardens and marble exterior offer a peaceful retreat.
This museum provides a unique look into Byzantine and Christian art’s enduring legacy. It’s perfect for history buffs and those curious about Greece’s religious past.
Attend a Performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a captivating Athens attraction. Built between 160 and 174 AD, this ancient theater blends history with modern entertainment. It seats 4,680 people and hosts unforgettable Athens activities.
Discover Ancient Greek Theater
The Odeon boasts impressive architecture with a semi-circular orchestra. It spans 92 meters long and 28 meters high. The venue features 35 seating rows and a three-story stage building.
Roman elements showcase ancient engineering prowess. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a must-visit for history and culture fans.
Check the Performance Schedule
The Athens and Epidaurus Festival runs annually from May to October. It brings life to this ancient venue with diverse performances. Greek tragedies and modern concerts are among the offerings.
Famous artists like Luciano Pavarotti and Elton John have performed here. Book tickets early, as shows often sell out quickly.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Construction Period | 160-174 AD |
| Seating Capacity | 4,680 |
| Auditorium Diameter | 80 meters |
| Festival Duration | May to October |
| Acropolis Ticket Price | €13 |
Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a must-see attraction in Athens. This massive structure was once Greece’s largest temple. It offers a glimpse into ancient Athens’ grandeur and took over 600 years to build.
Explore Large Ruins
Only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns still stand today. Each column is an impressive 17 meters tall and made of gleaming Pentelic marble. The temple’s size, 115 by 110 meters, made it one of the ancient world’s largest.
You can walk among ruins that have survived for thousands of years. This unique athens sightseeing experience lets you feel the temple’s original scale.
Learn Its Historical Significance
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is crucial to Athens’ history. It was only fully functional for about a century before its destruction in 267 AD. The nearby Gate of Hadrian reminds us of Roman Emperor Hadrian’s love for Athens.
The temple is 500 meters southeast of the Acropolis and 700 meters south of Syntagma Square. It’s a key stop on any athens historical sites tour.
Admission is €13, with reduced rates for certain groups. Opening hours start at 8 AM, with closing times changing seasonally. For fewer crowds and better photos, try arriving early in the morning.
FAQ
What’s the best time to visit Athens?
Spring (April to mid-June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for visiting Athens. The weather is mild and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers cooler temperatures.
How many days should I spend in Athens?
Plan to spend 3-4 days in Athens to fully experience its major attractions. This allows time to explore ancient sites like the Acropolis and visit museums. You’ll also have time to enjoy local cuisine and maybe take a day trip.
Is Athens safe for tourists?
Athens is generally safe for tourists, but stay aware of your surroundings. Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist spots. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night.
What’s the best way to get around Athens?
Athens has an efficient public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams. The metro is convenient for reaching major attractions. Walking is great in central areas, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere.
Taxis are readily available but ensure they use the meter.
Are there any good day trips from Athens?
Yes! Popular day trips include visiting the ancient site of Delphi. You can also explore the scenic Saronic Gulf islands like Hydra or Aegina. The beautiful coastal town of Nafplio is another great option.
What are some must-try Greek dishes in Athens?
Try authentic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad. Spanakopita (spinach pie) and fresh seafood are also delicious options. For dessert, indulge in baklava or loukoumades (Greek donuts).
Enjoy some local wine or ouzo with your meal for the full Greek dining experience.
Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for attractions in Athens?
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for popular sites like the Acropolis and major museums. This can save you time waiting in long queues, especially during peak tourist season.
Some sites offer combined tickets that can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
