tourist guide for athens

16 of the best things to do in Athens

Dec 7, 2023 • 9 min read

Experience the best of Athens with our guide to the top things to do in the Greek capital © Christopher Moswitzer / Shutterstock

As the birthplace of modern Western civilization, sprawling Athens has enough neoclassical buildings to keep you busy for a week.

Go beyond the Parthenon , though, and you'll discover a more youthful side to the city with new art galleries, languid cafe culture and outdoor cinemas. The Athens of today offers way more than relics of antiquity and quick routes to the Greek Islands — though we wouldn’t cross those off the to-do list just yet.

Here are Athens' best experiences.

1. Ascend the steps of the Acropolis to the Parthenon

The greatest symbol of the glory of Ancient Greece, the Acropolis rises spectacularly in the center of Athens. In the reign of Pericles, in the 5th century BCE, the hilltop was deemed a religious sanctuary. 

Just as pilgrims of millennia past made their way to worship here, you can ascend the marble steps on the west side to find yourself dwarfed by the towering columns of the magnificent Parthenon.

Detour: Complete your experience by seeing a concert or play at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus .

2. Gaze over the city from Filopappou Hill at sunset 

The mythical battleground of Theseus and the Amazons is one of Athens' best parks, studded with small ruins connected by beautiful stone paths that are themselves a minor architectural marvel. Make time in your schedule to come here around sundown one evening to watch the lights on the Acropolis switch on and glow gold against the blue sky.

Detour:  To the north, the Hill of the Pnyx offers equally compelling views and is almost always empty.

3. Shop at Monastiraki Flea Market

On Saturdays, central Athens throngs with shoppers looking for a bargain at the huge Monastiraki Flea Market , which takes place between the Monastiraki and Thisseio neighborhoods. 

Here, traders open up their secondhand stores to flog a jumble of flea-market finds, vintage clothing and oddities ranging from vintage magazines punctuated with bold Greek lettering to mid-century furniture and strange bric-a-brac. Look hard enough, and you’ll find some buried treasure (and if not, some insight into how modern Greeks have furnished their homes for the past 60 years).

4. See the birthplace of democracy in ancient Agora 

Follow in the footsteps of Socrates and his various political and philosophical cohorts at the Agora , the heart of ancient Athens' civic life and the birthplace of democracy. In the stately Stoa of Attalos (an architectural paradigm for shopping arcades that you'll recognize across modern Athens), the Agora Museum displays unusual finds from ancient daily life. 

The Temple of Hephaistos is exquisite and very well preserved; see how many of the Labors of Hercules you can identify on the frieze.

5. Journey through history at the National Archaeological Museum

Athens' preeminent museum houses the world’s largest and finest collection of Greek antiquities. Priceless items date from the Neolithic Era (6800 BCE) to the Cycladic, Mycenaean and Classical periods. 

It's gratifying to discover iconic sculptures of Western art history here, like the bronze figure of a bearded god and the disputed hammered gold death mask of Agamemnon, as you stroll through the galleries. Other surprises await, including frescoes from Santorini upstairs. 

6. See a show at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center 

A contemporary Athenian wonder, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center , designed by Renzo Piano, is home to both the Greek National Opera and the main branch of the National Library .

Seeing a performance here will be a highlight of your trip, but there are plenty of free things to see and do as well, including meandering through the stunningly beautiful Stavros Niarchos Park . Designed to showcase Mediterranean flora, the gently sloping gardens are the perfect spot to relax and take in the views and cooling sea breezes.

7. Walk among ruins at the Temple of Olympian Zeus 

Greece's largest temple was seven centuries in the making. Or rather, what used to be Greece's largest temple – today, only a handful of its colossal columns remain, as the rest were picked apart and reused in other buildings. The temple was dedicated to Zeus and, unofficially, to the Roman emperor Hadrian, who actually finished the construction job and erected a statue of himself. 

Planning tip:  While you're here, note Hadrian's Arch, congratulating him on his achievement. And explorers can seek out a sanctuary to Pan on the far side of this site.

8. Learn the story of Greece at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture 

If you have time for only one museum, make it this one. This impeccable private collection shows the spectrum of Greece from ancient times right up through the mid-20th century. It occupies a stunning neoclassical mansion, with fine art and mundane folk objects – both equally beautiful – displayed chronologically. 

As a kind of counterpoint to the pure classicism celebrated elsewhere in the city's archaeological sites, the Benaki collection tells the story of how Greece has absorbed foreign influences and ideas to create its uniquely syncretic culture.

9. Enter ancient Athens at Kerameikos

The city's ancient necropolis is home to the Street of Tombs, where classical VIPs were interred. Many of the finest grave markers are replicas; the originals are on display at the small, absorbing on-site museum. 

The area was also the ceremonial entrance into ancient Athens, and while the gates no longer stand and the arriving road is now a paved city street, it's still an interesting place to pause and imagine the activity that would've taken place here.

10. Join in with the local coffee culture

Athenians don't wait until the weekend to head out to catch up with friends; they spend their days under the shade of orange trees nursing coffees and conversing for hours.

By day, the leafy central neighborhoods of Pangrati and Exarhia are packed with locals spilling out from kafeneia  (Greek cafes) and into the streets, philosophizing (a favorite activity of any Greek), playing backgammon on marble table tops and sipping slowly on a cuppa.

11. Admire treasures in the Acropolis Museum 

Natural light cascades through the spacious galleries of the modern Acropolis Museum , illuminating the priceless treasures that have been removed from the hill and installed here for safekeeping. 

The pinnacle of the museum is the top-floor glass atrium, where the 161m-long frieze from around the top of the Parthenon (minus the portion still held in the British Museum ) is installed at eye level, so visitors can see all the details of this masterpiece in marble, and get a truer sense of its grand scale.

12. Check out the art scene

Athens is getting increasingly well-known for its art scene. From not-for-profit galleries like CheapArt Athens to well-established commercial galleries like The Breeder  and the  Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation , and the National Museum of Contemporary Art , which opened in 2020, the city's creative side is thriving.

Add to that a flurry of international artists who have moved to the city and set up spaces like  Kypseli Print Studio  – a print screening studio that hosts workshops for people of all abilities – and  Haus N , a creative hub for new installations and works by young Greek artists, and it's easy to see the landscape changing for the better.

13. Watch the changing of the guard in Syntagma Square

In the very heart of Athens stands the rose-toned Hellenic Parliament building on Syntagma Square . Try and catch its ceremonious changing of the guard. Two guards are always in residence here, dressed in traditional Evzones costume, a tasseled fez hat, thick kilt and stockinged legs with pom-pom shoes.

In summer, the customary get-up gets so hot that these guards have to be dabbed at with tissues, as they are unable to move from their positions protecting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It’s only on the hour that they can finally break free to move in perfectly choreographed synchronicity, kicking their legs high as they march to change guards.

14. Hit the beaches of the Apollo Coast

Escaping the heat of the city is easy in Athens: just head to the beach. In the sweltering summer months, take the A1 tram to the Palaio Faliro neighborhood for a palm tree-lined promenade and a soft, sandy beach.

Further along the Apollo Coast are the more upmarket southern suburbs of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, with no shortage of luxury beach clubs should you want a full day off from sightseeing. Out of season, Vouliagmeni has a burgeoning surf scene.

Planning tip:  If you are willing to travel a little further for some beach time, head to Aegina on a  day trip .

15. Snap a shot on the winner's pedestal at the Panathenaic Stadium

With its rows of white Pentelic marble seats built into a ravine next to Ardettos Hill, this ancient-turned-modern stadium is a draw both for lovers of classical architecture and sports fans who can imagine the roar of the crowds from millennia past. A ticket gets you an audio tour, admission to a tiny exhibit on the modern Olympics (mainly eye-candy games posters) and the opportunity to take your photo on a winners' pedestal.

The stadium – built in the 4th century BCE and restored for the first modern Olympic games in 1896 – was first used as a venue for the Panathenaic athletic contests. It's said that at Hadrian's inauguration in CE 120, a thousand wild animals were sacrificed in the arena. Later, the seats were rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus.

16. Visit the miraculous Church of Agios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris

At the foot of Filopappou Hill, this 16th-century church may not be the oldest in Athens, but it is certainly one of the loveliest, with a heavy timber roof, marble floors and the permanent scent of incense. A great 1732 fresco of St Dimitrios, astride his horse in a pose copied from ancient images of Alexander the Great, adorns the interior.

The churchyard, with its wooden gate and bells, conjures Japan – a touch by modernist architect Dimitris Pikionis, who also applied his precise style to the restoration of the back exterior wall, a delightful piece of stonework. In 1648, the church was the site of a reported miracle. The Turks, ensconced on the Acropolis, prepared to fire a cannon on worshippers gathered in the church, but the gunner was killed by lightning, saving the congregation, hence its name, Loumbardiaris ("of the cannon").

This article was first published Mar 10, 2020 and updated Dec 7, 2023.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

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Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Athens, founded in 508 BC, is a gigantic city that sprawls over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people.

There are over 5,000 years of history in Athens and you’ll find some of the largest collections in the world of Greek ruins and artifacts here.

But I’ll be honest: I don’t love Athens. I didn’t like it when I first went in 2006 and, after four visits (most recently last year), I’m still not completely sold on it. I think it’s dirty, ugly, and, overall, there’s just something about it I just don’t like.

That said, it’s not all bad.

I love the Plaka area (that’s where all the history is) and Psyri, just north, is my favorite neighborhood in the city. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and has a lot of excellent bars, street drinking, cafes, and restaurants.

Overall, I have a feeling that Athens is a place that truly reveals its magic when you live there. So, while I’m still not sold on it, I warmed up to it after my last visit and can see why some people like it.

Given the amount of history and sights here, I suggest you spend at least three full days when you visit. There’s a lot to see and do here.

This travel guide to Athens will give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your visit, save money, and make the most of your time here!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Athens

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Athens

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is a 5th-century BCE citadel overlooking Athens. The hilltop complex includes ancient buildings and ruins like Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s undoubtedly one of the best historical spots in the city. Lots of plays are hosted in the Odeon of Herodes here in the summer too. Arrive super early or late to avoid the crowds. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens (more on that below). For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

This newer (opened in 2009) museum is housed in a modern building that’s juxtaposed with the archaeological treasures that it holds. One of the highlights is the glass floor where you can walk over the ruins of an ancient neighborhood. There are also over 4,000 excavated finds, including sculptures, friezes, pottery, and more. End your visit at the museum’s restaurant for one of the best views of the Parthenon in the city. Admission is 5 EUR in the winter and 10 EUR in the summer.

3. See the National Archaeological Museum

This museum, founded in the 19th century, has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. There are five main permanent collections with exhibits covering Prehistoric Antiquities, Sculpture, Metalwork, Vases and Minor Arts, Egyptian Antiquities, and Cypriot Antiquities. You can even see the 2,000-year-old analog “computer” found in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera. Plan to spend at least a half-day here. Admission is 6 EUR in the winter and 12 EUR in the summer.

4. Hike Lycabettus

Legend has it that the mythological goddess Athena created Mount Lycabettus when she dropped a limestone mountain on the spot. If you want some exercise and a great view of the city and the Acropolis (especially at sunset), hike up to the peak of this 277-meter (909 ft) hill, which is the highest point in Athens. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street. There’s a (pricey) cafe at the top if you need a drink, as well as an open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts in the summer, and a 19th-century chapel. If you don’t want to walk up, you can pay 7.50 EUR for a return trip on the funicular (5 EUR one-way).

5. See the Historic Sights

The ancient ruins of old Athens are littered around The Plaka, an area that’s known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods.” Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, this is the oldest part of Athens and ruins are everywhere. The Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Roman Agora, Olympieion, Kerameikos, and a ton more other stuff are all here. Plan to spend a while roaming the sites. For the big 5, get a combo ticket. It costs 30 EUR and is valid for 5 days so you don’t have to rush.

Other Things to See and Do in Athens

1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. This post lists all my favorite walking tours in Athens . Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

And if you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, Take Walks is the way to go. You get lots of behind-the-scenes access, including at the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Tours start at 59 EUR. It’s worth the money if you’re a history buff like me!

2. Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora)

This 19th-century public market is one of my favorite places to wander, people watch, and sample the local delicacies. Come early to watch the produce and fish being unloaded. There are a ton of Greek specialties, like olives, halloumi, and feta for sale here. It’s open every day of the week except Sunday, from 7am to 6pm (it gets very crowded around lunchtime so arrive early). If you have an appetite, stop at Diporto to eat. The restaurant has no menu so they serve whatever they cook for the day. The owners barely speak English but the food is excellent!

3. Go to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon

Constructed in 444 BCE, the remarkably well preserved Temple of Poseidon sits on a rocky outcrop 70 meters (300 ft) above the ocean. Built to honor the god of the sea, the temple served as a welcomed sight for returning sailors. The sunset from here is incredible and there are several beaches nearby in Legrena and Lavrio. Admission to the archaeological site is 10 EUR. It’s about an hour away from Athens.

4. Visit the Kanellopoulos Museum

This former mansion dates to 1884 and houses a collection of over 6,500 items, including jewelry, weapons, clay-and-stone vases, Byzantine art, figurines, and furniture that once belonged to the wealthy Kanellopoulos family. The collection was bought by the government and turned into a museum in 1976. Although there isn’t much English signage, you rarely have to compete for views with other visitors. Admission is 3 EUR.

5. See the Tower of the Winds (Aerides)

Originally built by Andronicus in the first century BCE, this octagonal tower once functioned as a sundial, weather vane, compass, and water clock. It’s widely accepted to be the world’s first meteorological station. The entire tower is made of Pentelic marble, which is the same used for the Parthenon and was rarely used for anything other than temples. It’s 8 EUR to visit with a combined ticket to the Ancient Agora.

6. Witness the Easter Vigil

If you happen to be in Athens during Easter weekend, don’t miss this enchanting vigil procession. Every Good Friday, thousands upon thousands of people form a procession throughout the city, all holding lit candles. Head to Lycabettus Hill and join the crowds ascending to the St. George church. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a cultural experience worth seeing. You can also climb the hill anytime to watch the sunset (it’s the highest point in the city so the views are excellent). The neighborhood below, Kolonaki, also has lots of upscale bars and cafes if you want to splash out and relax.

7. Hike Parnitha National Park

Located 90 minutes from Athens by car, here you can find several caves, gorges, and springs to explore. Mount Parnitha is also the highest mountain in the region, standing 1,413 meters (4,635 ft) tall. There are around 75 well-marked paths in the park so a guide isn’t necessary. For an easy hike, the trek to Bafi Refuge from the church of Ayia Triada only takes 40 minutes. For something more challenging, try the 20-kilometer (12-mile) trek from Avlona to Agia Marina.

8. Stroll through Anafiotika

Anafiotika is a 19th-century neighborhood built into the northern side of the Acropolis hill. It lies above Plaka, near the entrance to the Agora, but has none of the hustle and bustle of the city center. This place embodies the feel of the Greek islands, boasting whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and tiny sidewalk cafes.

9. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Dating from the 6th century BCE, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the largest temple in Greece (it took almost 700 years to build). Peisistratos, the son of Hippocrates and ruler of Athens from 561-527 BCE, started its construction and then abandoned it after funds ran dry. Hadrian finished the job in 131 CE, and then built an enormous statue of Zeus (and then an enormous statue of himself). There are only a few Corinthian columns still standing. Admission is 6 EUR but really there’s not much here so just look at it from the gate and save yourself some money!

10. Take a food tour

Athens is one big gastronomic adventure. To sample the city’s best eats, Devour’s Ultimate Athens Food Tour provides a fantastic introduction to the local cuisine, with thirteen tastings across nine traditional establishments. You’ll sample fresh cheeses and cold cuts, visit the central market, learn about Greek dining culture, enjoy loukoumades (fried donut balls), and taste some classic souvlaki, all while exploring three historic neighborhoods. Tours start from 69 EUR.

11. Hang out in Psyri

This small neighborhood north of Plaka was given a major upgrade for the 2004 Olympics and consists of an eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, tavernas, cafes, and restaurants. It’s one of my favorite areas in Athens. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and is really popular with locals on weekends. There are a lot of hostels here and nearby you’ll find one of the Middle Eastern/Indian neighborhoods in the city (they are blended here) with lots of good food options.

13. Hit the beach

The closest beaches to the center of Athens are in Piraeus and Alimos, just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) south of Athens center. They offer beaches with clear water, sand and pebbles, and have a good selection of restaurants to choose from. Their easy access from Athens by public transport means they get busy in the summer — especially on weekends and holidays. If you have more time and want to escape (some of) the crowds, head further along the Athenian Riviera to places like Lagonisi or Saronida or go on to Sounion (you could combine a beach trip with visiting the Temple of Poseidon). If the sea is too cold for swimming, head to Vouliagmeni Lake. The water in the lake is thermally heated so it’s much warmer than the ocean!

14. Hike Filopappou Hill

Right across from the Acropolis is this hill that gives you one of the best views of the Parthenon. The hill takes about 15 minutes to walk up and there are a number of ruins and sites all around the hill you can stop at (they have a lot of good signs that explain what was there). Definitely go up. The views are great!

15. Day trip to Delphi

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

16. Watch the sunset on Mars Hill

A very popular sunset spot with locals is Mars (Areopagus) Hill. It was once the site that served as the high court of appeal in ancient Greece. Today, it’s a great spot to relax and see the sunset. Bring some beer or wine up here and enjoy the view of the city right under the Acropolis. It’s like a free “rooftop” bar!

17. See Hansen’s Trilogy

There are three buildings just five minutes walk from the Syntagma main square and are considered some of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in the world. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen in the 19th century, The Academy, the University, and the National Library look exactly like how you’d picture ancient Athens. The simple use of geometric shapes gives these buildings a grand, eloquent design. Don’t miss seeing them!

18. Explore the Panathenaic Stadium (Kalimarmaro)

This stadium is where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896. The stadium was originally used in 330 BCE by the Greeks. The Romans rebuilt it entirely out of marble in 144 CE, expanding it to hold over 50,000 people. It eventually was abandoned and wasn’t used again until the 19th century when it was refurbished for the Olympics. Admission is 10 EUR. In the summer, lots of concerts are held here for big touring bands.

For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Athens Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds starts at 35 EUR per night, while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs 20-25 EUR per night. Private rooms cost between 95-105 EUR per night in peak season and around 55 EUR in off-peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have kitchens if you want to cook.

For those traveling with a tent, camping can be done outside the city for around 16 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels with a private bathroom start at 40 EUR per night, though expect to spend closer to 50-60 per night if you’re booking last minute.

You can find Airbnbs anywhere in Athens, with private rooms starting at 20 EUR per night (although they average closer to 45 EUR). A full apartment averages about 130 EUR per night.

Average cost of food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables. Olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts are also super common. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find gyros or souvlaki for between 2-3 EUR, while a breakfast pastry with a coffee isn’t more than 3 EUR.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 10 EUR for a main dish and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 5-8 EUR. Fish will be more expensive around 15-20 EUR. A lot of restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water at a restaurant is about 2 EUR.

All in all, if you’re going out at a casual taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that prices, go up depending on how fancy you get!

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 7-10 EUR while Indian/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

Beer is 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR. Cocktails are expensive, however, usually costing 8-12 EUR.

My favorite places to eat in the city are Kostas for souvlaki (they use this red sauce that is to die for), Feyrouz for Lebanese food, Avli Psiri or Ella for Greek, Shiraki for Japanese, Dosa House for dosas.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 40 EUR on groceries per week, which will get you staples like pasta, rice, fresh veggies, and chicken. Head to the Central Market for the cheapest, freshest food.

Backpacking Athens Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 45 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly cheap or free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking more, add 5-10 EUR more to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, drink more, eat out for all your meals at cheap street stalls, take the occasional taxi, and do more activities like visiting the Acropolis and the Archeological Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Athens Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece in general is pretty cheap and Athens is no exception. Stick to cheap eats, a few attractions, and boom, you’re set! But, with a few extra tips, your money can go a lot further. Here are some suggested ways to save money in Athens:

• Take a free walking tour – To get a feel for the city and learn some history, be sure to take a free walking tour when you arrive. Exploring a city on foot is the best way to understand it, and if you love architecture and history then this is a must! Just be sure to tip your guide at the end.
• Get a transportation pass – Buying combo tickets for Athens’ metro system is one of the best ways to save money. A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR, and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.
• Visit the sites for free – From November 1st to March 31st, all major sites in the city are free on the first Sunday of the month. Though the crowds tend to be big, it’s a great way to see all the major sites and save yourself the entrance fee! Prices are also heavily discounted during these months as well.
• Get a combo ticket – For 30 EUR you can get admission to the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and more. Considering the entrance fee is 20 EUR for just the Acropolis, this is a steal!
• Have an ISIC Card – To save up to 50% on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts in Athens. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you get a local host that can tell you the best places to go and share their insider tips.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Use the Greek Salad/Bread Rule – Is a restaurant cheap or expensive? Here’s a good rule of thumb: If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more that, the place is expensive.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!
• Use points if you can – If you have points, use them to book accommodation. For only a few thousand points per night, you can save a ton of money. This post has more info if you’re new to points and miles .

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens has plenty of affordable hostels to choose from. From hostels to hotels to quaint B&Bs, you have a lot of choice. If you’re looking for a hostel, here are some of my favorites (they all offer private rooms too):

• Athens Hawks Hostel

How to Get Around Athens

A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.

The express bus from the airport for 6 EUR each way. The subway costs 9 EUR each way and takes about an hour from the city center to the airport (and vice versa).

Bicycle – If you’re not afraid of navigating Athens’ chaotic traffic, bike rentals are an enjoyable way to get around. Rentals start at 12 EUR per day, though electric bicycles can be double that price. Athens By Bike and Bike Me Up are two reputable companies to use.

Taxi – Base fare for taxis in Athens is 3 EUR, with each additional kilometer costing 0.74 EUR. Skip the taxis if you can as the prices add up quickly. Also, make sure the meter is turned on. It’s illegal for drivers not to use the meter, however, some drivers might try to get sneaky to rip you off. Additionally, make sure the meter shows a number “1”. The “2” is only for 12am-5am, when the rates are double.

Ridesharing – Uber no longer exists here so you’re stuck taking taxis. (You can still use the Uber app, but it will just call a taxi for you).

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. However, you won’t need one unless you’re going to be leaving the city to explore the surrounding area. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

When to Go to Athens

Summer (June-August)is the most popular time to visit. However, it’s also super hot. Temperatures climb as high as the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F), which can often be unbearable. Sometimes they get even higher and get closer to 40°C. On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing some island hopping from Athens, this is a good time to come to enjoy the Mediterranean waters.

Winters in Athens are mild, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F). It rarely snows so this can be an excellent time to see the Acropolis and other famous sights without the tourist crowds. Easter is an excellent time to visit to appreciate all the Greek Orthodox celebrations.

Personally, I think that the shoulder season (April/May and September/October) is the best time to visit. Prices are a bit cheaper, temperatures are pleasant, and you can avoid the busiest time of the tourist season. If you’re on a budget and want to beat the crowds, this is when you should visit.

How to Stay Safe in Athens

Athens is generally a very safe city to visit, even for solo travelers. Your biggest risk is pickpockets, especially on the subway. The city is rife with them. Be sure to keep a close eye on your stuff and watch out for groups who come near you. Usually, they are working in teams to distract you while someone picks your pocket. Other than that, there’s not much to worry about.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

At night, it’s best to avoid the areas around Omonia, Exarcheia, Victoria Square, and Kolokotroni.

If you hike to Fillopapou hill, keep an eye out for pickpockets. The pickpockets know tourists go up there so they tend to hang out around there looking for an easy target.

Scams can occur around Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Glyfada when tourists are lured into a bar with special discounted drink prices, and then are later forced to pay huge prices on their bar tabs or get threatened with violence. You can read more about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Athens Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Athens Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
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Next 5 days

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Climatic Data

Source: National Observatory of Athens / meteo.gr

© Th. Gravanis

© Stian Rekdal

© Y. Skoulas

A journey through time

Points of Interest

• TRANSPORTATION

National Archaeological Museum

Acropolis Museum

Byzantine and Christian Museum

National Gallery - Alexandros Soutsos Museum

Museum of Cycladic Art

Panathenaic Stadium

Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation, Athens

Benaki Museum of Islamic Art

Syntagma Square

Athens for shopping centre

National Garden

Biking in Athens

Pedion tou Areos

Nightlife in Athens

Bus Station Kifisou

Bus Station Liosion

Athens Railway Station

Unique Experiences

Historical Walkings in the city centre

Latest events.

Saturday in the Museum with 20+1 masterpieces

ΑΣΤΥΓΡΑΦΙΑ / URBANOGRAPHY

Athens – City Festival 2024

The Parthenon and Byron

Dance Performances

Athens Digital Arts Festival

Athens Pride 2024

Release Athens Festival

Tips for your next trip.

A delicious visit to Athens' museums

Beautiful atriums and courtyards, balconies with breathtaking views and green gardens have been shaped as part of museum premises in Athens promise to offer you relaxing spots before or after your culture-oriented visits.

Athens Riviera

You don't need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital: take a short bus ride and you'll find superb local beaches along the sheltered Saronic Gulf...

Museum cafés in Athens

LGBTQ+ Journeying to Athens

Filming in athens.

SUMMER HOLIDAY (1963)

Four London bus mechanics strike up a deal with London transport. They do up a double-decker London bus, drive it around Europe as a hotel and if they make it, they will in turn own and be in charge of a whole fleet. While on the road in France, they pick up three ladies whose car breaks down and offer to take them to their next singing job in Athens!

DIRECTOR: PETER YATES FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE BOY ON A DOLPHIN (1957)

A sponge diver ( Sofia Loren) on Hydra island discovers a sunken ship filled with artifacts, including a priceless ancient gold statue of a boy on a dolphin. She and her boyfriend enlist the help of an American archaeologist, but her boyfriend can't afford the asking price and ends up turning to an art collector for help.

DIRECTOR: JEAN NEGULESCO FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS, RHODES, KORINTHOS, POROS, KALABAKA, DELOS, DELPHI, SANTORINI

IN THE COOL OF THE DAY (1963)

An English book publisher, who is taunted and tormented by a grudging, embittered, anti-social wife, falls hopelessly in love with a fragile American girl, who has been sheltered and protected to the point of absurdity by her adoring husband. The couple soon run off to Greece together to pursue their romance.

DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEVENS FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, DELPHI

FOR THE LOVE OF BENJI (1977)

Even when he is supposed to be on holidays, Benji the dog is never far away from adventure. While traveling to Greece with his owners, Benji has a run-in with a secret agent (Ed Nelson), who hides something on him that a lot of unsavoury characters seem to want. Once in the foreign land, Benji becomes separated from his owners, and has to navigate his way through Athens with everyone chasing after him. All Benji wants is to be reunited with housekeeper Mary (Patsy Garrett) and the kids.

DIRECTOR: JOE CAMP FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

AMERICA AMERICA (1962)

Somewhere around 1900, a young Greek man lives a miserable life in a small village in Turkey as a member of the Greek minority. When the oppression by the Turks increases, his father provides him with the family treasures and sends him to Constantinople. There, he is supposed to make money and get the family to join him. But his own dream is going to America...

DIRECTOR: ELIA KAZAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

ATLAS (1961)

An evil king Praximedes is convinced to settle his dispute with his political rival by staging a battle to the death between their respective champions, and convinces superhero Atlas to fight for him. But Atlas eventually realises the king's true nature and turns against him...

DIRECTOR: ROGER CORMAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

BACKFIRE (1964)

A gold smuggler hires our hero to transport a stolen fortune to a new hideout. The smuggler sends him moll to accompany (and spy on) the hero. The two set out for Beirut to get instructions as to where the gold is located. They travel throughout exotic southeast Europe and the Middle-East seeking further instructions, never realizing that they have had the gold with them all along...

DIRECTOR: JEAN BECKER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

GIRL ON THE BRIDGE (1999)

Adèle (Vanessa Paradis ) a waif who is unlucky in love decides to take her own life by jumping from a Paris bridge, when she gets a strange proposition from Gabor (Daniel Auteuil), a professional knife thrower. Together, their luck is unstoppable, and they have an almost psychic bond. But fidelity is not easy, even for those that are perfectly mached.

DIRECTOR: PATRICE LECONTE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY (2014)

A con artist ( Viggo Mortensen)and his wife (Kirsten Dunst) find themselves in deep trouble in Greece after the former murders a detective. To escape from Greece, they must trust a stranger (Oscar Isaac) who is inherently untrustworthy.

DIRECTOR: HOSSEIN AMINI FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, CHANIA, HERAKLION

IN THE FADE (2017)

Katja's life falls apart in the blink of an eye when two neo-Nazis kill her husband and 6-year-old son in a bomb attack. Her quest for justice soon pushes her to the edge as the two suspects stand trial for murder. The movie has won the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film while Diane Cruger won the award of Best actress at Cannes Festival.

DIRECTOR: FATIH AKIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

IT HAPPENED IN ATHENS (1962)

During the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, a poor shepherd decides to complete in them, while a glamorous actress promises to marry one of the winners of one of the games.

DIRECTOR: ANDREW MARTON FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

JUPITER'S THIGH (1980)

A honeymoon turns into a breathless country chase for a police inspector and a researcher of ancient Greek civilization.

DIRECTOR: PHILIPPE DE BROCA FILMING LOCATION: KALABAKA, PARGA, CORFU, ATHENS

MALE HUNT (1964)

A Frenchman is getting ready to marry the woman of his dreams. He begins to have second thoughts though when his best friend, a sworn bachelor, tells him that women only use marriage to exploit men. Under that influence, he leaves for Greece on his own.

DIRECTOR: EDOUARD MOLINARO FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, RHODES

MY LIFE IN RUINS (2009)

A Greek-American tour guide (Nia Vardalos) leads and assorted group of misfit tourists around Greece. In a hysterical clash of personalities and cultures, everything seems to go wrong.Until one day, a very special tourist (Richard Dreyfuss) shows her how to have fun and take a good look at the last person she'd ever expect to find love with: her quiet and sexy Greek bus driver (Alexis Georgoulis).

DIRECTOR: DONALD PETRIE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, OLYMPIA, DELPHI

NEVER ON SUNDAY (1960)

A look at the life of Ilya, (Mercouri) a carefree Greek prostitute, who lives in the port of Piraeus and meets an American scholar Holmes (Dassin), an American tourist and classical scholar who adores all things Greek. The two try to change each others' perception and way of living for the better. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (Manos Hadjidakis for "Never on Sunday").

DIRECTOR: JULES DASSIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

NEW YORK STORIES (1989)

Τhree stories happening in New York. The first, by Scorsese, is about a painter who creates his works helped by high volume music and an attractive assistant; second, by Coppola, is about a rich and bold 12 years old who helps her separated parents to reconciliate; third, by Allen, is a witty piece of comedy about the impossibility of getting rid of the son's role. The one of Coppola includes a concert on top of the Acropolis Hill.

DIRECTOR: WOODY ALLEN, FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA, MARTIN SCORSESE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

A WOMAN AT HER WINDOW (1976)

The wealthy Austrian-born wife of a penniless Italian diplomat and playboy in 1936's Greece, amuses herself pursuing a shallow loveless affair with a nobleman. Her life is changed when she rescues a political activist she finds hiding beneath her window and falls in love with him...

DIRECTOR: PIERRE GRANIER- DEFERRE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

RAISE THE TITANIC (1980)

The American military is developing an experimental defence system that requires an extremely rare mineral in order to work. It is known that around the turn of the century a miner exported some of the mineral. Hopes are dashed they learn that he transported the mineral on the Titanic. But perhaps the Titanic can be salvaged...

DIRECTOR: JERRY JAMESON FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS

RUBY CAIRO (1992)

A young widow discovers that her late husband had stashed a fortune in secret bank accounts across Europe, and sets off to follow a trail of clues encoded in a set of baseball cards.

DIRECTOR: GRAEME CLIFFORD FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

SIGNS & WONDERS (2000)

Alec (Stellan Skarsgard), an American living in Athens, leaves his wife (Charlotte Rampling) for another woman, Katherine (Deborah Kara Unger), but then tries to return to her over his guilt, but she's more interested in a Greek political activist (Dimitris Katalifos). He is under the influence of signs and premonitions with blue being his color, and yellow being the color of Katherine.

DIRECTOR: JONATHAN NOSSITER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

TEMPEST (1982)

A middle- aged architect is going through a difficult mi-life crisis. He abandons his wife, leaves New York, and moves to Greece with his teenage daughter. He meets a singer, they become lovers and they move to a Greek island. One day, a twist of fate brings his wife and her new lover to the island due to a shipwreck.

DIRECTOR: PAUL MAZURSKY FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

THE 300 SPARTANS (1962)

In 480 BC Spartan king Leonidas led an extremely small army of Greek Soldiers (300 of them his personal body guards from Sparta) to hold off an invading Persian army more that 20 times as large. The actial heroism of those who stood (and ultimately died) with Leonidas helped shape the course of Western Civilization.

DIRECTOR: RUDOLPH MATE FILMING LOCATION: KORINTHOS, ATHENS

THE ANGRY HILLS (1959)

In 1941, an American journalist (Robert Mitchum) reporting from Greece is given a secret list og German collaborators to transport to British Intelligence headquarters. He is helped by Greek resistance fighters as he is pursued across the country by the Nazis...

DIRECTOR: ROBERT ALDRICH FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE BURGLARS (1971)

A band of crooks, led by a professional jewel thief, break into a mansion on the outskirts of Athens to steal a priceless collection of emeralds. The robbery is a success, but the gang miss their escape transport out of the country. Meanwhile, their leader is pursued by a crooked police chief, who will stop at nothing to lay his hands on the stolen jewels...

DIRECTOR: HENRI VERNEUIL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS, CORFU

THE GREEK TYCOON (1978)

She was the most famous woman in the world. He was a peasant, a pirate, a shark. The Greek Tycoon is the story of their fiery romance. Liz Cassidy, the unhappy widow of an assassinated American president, is pursued by womanising millionaire businessman Theo Tomasis, who proves to be very persistent. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Anthony Quinn, Edward Albert and James Franciscus.

DIRECTOR: J. LEE THOMPSON FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, ATHENS, MYKONOS

THE ISLAND OF LOVE (1963)

When their gangster- financed B- movie flops, two conmen flee to Greece to escape the mobster who's after them. Once there, they work up another scam to open a resort and one of them falls for the gangster's niece.

DIRECTOR: MORTON DA COSTA FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, SPETSES, ATHENS

THE LITTLE GIRL DRUMMER (2018)

Brilliant young actress Charlie strikes up an acquaintance with an intriguing stranger while on holiday in Greece, but it rapidly becomes apparent that his intentions are far from romantic.

DIRECTOR: PARK CHAN- WOOK FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, NAXOS

THE OTHER SIDE OF MIDNIGHT (1977)

A beautiful French woman falls in love with a dashing American pilot. She expects him to marry her, but instaed he abandons her. She later becomes a successful actress and manoeuvres to ahve him hired as the private pilot of her wealthy Greek lover, only to rekindle their passion.

DIRECTOR: CHARLES JARROTT

THE ROAD TO CORINTH (1967)

During the Cold War in Greece, NATO radar and missile systems experience mysterious Robert Ford and his wife, Shanny (Jean Seberg), takes over the investigation despite the opposition of the head of the secret service, Mr. Sharps (Michel Bouquet). The latter orders the intelligence agent Dex (Maurice Ronet), a friend of Robert and Shanny, to monitor Shanny's whereabouts. The film is also known as "Who's Got The Black Box?"

DIRECTOR: CLAUDE CHABROL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE STEPS (1966)

An artist returns to Santorini, where she spent her childhood, to face the ghosts of her past and her present. Starring Irini Papa, Umberto Orsini and Takis Emmanuel.

DIRECTOR: LEONARD HIRSCHIELD FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI, ATHENS

THE TRIP TO GREECE (2020)

When Odysseus left Troy it took him ten years to get back to his home in Ithaca. Steve and Rob have only six days on their own personal odyssey in THE TRIP TO GREECE. On the way they argue about tragedy and comedy, astronomy and biology, myth, history, democracy and the meaning of life!

DIRECTOR: MICHAEL WINTERBOTTOM FILMING LOCATION: LESVOS, HALKIDIKI, ATHENS, HYDRA, ITHACA

CHALTE CHALTE (2003)

This romantic Bollywood movie starring Shah Rukh Khan was extensively shot in the beautiful destination of Greece. Its famous romantic number, 'tauba tumhare yeh ishare,' was shot around Athens University, Lycabetos Hill, the Olympic Stadium and concludes on the picturesque island of Mykonos.

DIRECTOR: AZIZ MIRZA FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, MYKONOS

TINTIN ET LE MYSTERE DE LA TOISON D'OR (1961)

The famous Belgian reporter Tintin, along with his dog Snowy (Milou) and Captain Haddock, sail to Greece in an old rust bucket called the Golden Fleece. Soon enough though, the ship's hidden secret gets them all in big trouble.

DIRECTOR: JEAN JACQUES VIERNE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALABAKA

THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING PANTS 2 (2005)

For the first time since their friendship began, four young girls are separated for a summer. One of them, Lena, visits her grandparents in Greece and meet Kostas, with whom she falls in love...

DIRECTOR: KEN KWAPIS FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

27 MISSING KISSES (2000)

A young woman's passion has a remarkable effect on a Russian village in this comedy-drama with fantasy elements. Sybill (Nino Kuchanidze) is a teenager who is sent to a small town in the country to spend the summer with her aunt. Despite her tender age, Sybill is ripe and sexually aware, and while the initial object of her attention is Alexander (Eugenji Sidichin), a widower in his early 40s, she instead pairs up with Mickey (Shalva Iashvili), Alexander's teenage son.

DIRECTOR: NANA DZHORDZHAZDE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALAVRYTA

40 CARATS (1973)

A forty-year-old conservative divorcee Manhattan realtor finds herself attracted (while on holidays in Greece) to a twenty-two year old New Yorker and they spend the night together. She then turns to New York and she is stunned to learn that he is her daughter's boyfriend. He then pursue her, and is uncertain of what to do...

DIRECTOR: MILTON KATSELAS

FANTASIES (1981)

Set on Mykonos Island, the story is about a sister (Bo Derek) and brother (Peter Hooten), who return home after years abroad. Falling under the island's erotic spell, the girl and boy discover that their love goes beyond filial. The incestuous nature of the story evaporates when it is discovered that the two aren't actually related after all.

DIRECTOR: JOHN DEREK

Other destinations

Elefsina 

• Visitors Guide
• Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Athens with a local

Sightseeing

From byzantine churches to ancient monuments, there is so much to see in athens. cross off the unmissable classics, then check out some under-the-radar sights with our stories as your guide., enchanting necropolis: the first cemetery of athens, a gallery walk in thissio and petralona, what to see in athens museum district, canvassing athens: art on the underground and overground, more articles, from alpha to omega: a read on athenian typography, athens through the eyes of artist alekos fassianos, painting the portrait of patission avenue, 25 free things to do in athens, neighbourhood watch: how to enjoy eclectic omonia, solo travel in athens: what to know and where to go, accessible guide: national garden of athens and surrounding highlights, sculpture culture: 10 urban statues in athens for your instagram, plan the perfect date night in athens, accessible guide: ancient athens uncovered, vorres museum: the best kept secret museum in athens, 13 must-see national gallery highlights that paint the story of modern greek art, 8 things to do in athens to feel like a local, how to do 48 hours in athens, go stargazing at the national observatory, athens off the beaten track, accessible guide: origins of modern athens, athens on a budget: the ultimate 2-day itinerary, how to athens: a video series for travellers, acropolis premium tour with athens walking tours, accessible guide: historic heart to urban soul of athens, sights & bites: athens museums with spectacular cafés, 10 modern buildings in athens you shouldn’t miss, 5 unusual museums in athens, the ultimate guide to luxury athens, the unexpected athens virtual tour with awesome athens experiences, listen to our athens podcast series, divine light: the most beautiful churches in athens, explore the urban soul of athens with sofka zinovieff, building on the past: restoring athens' architectural heritage, accessible athens: 10 wheelchair-friendly places to visit, listen to our new podcast series – athens unpacked, 10 unmissable athenian experiences, 6 unusual sights in athens worth a detour, the story of modern athens through its architecture, museums, mansions, and markets: where to find byzantine athens, what’s it really like to be an evzone, the acropolis museum by night with be a greek.

Athens   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Jorg Greuel | Getty Images

Why Go To Athens

Few cities rival Athens, Greece, when it comes to historical importance, yet the bustling capital is also fun and brimming with things to see and do. Visitors will also notice that ancient Athens feels considerably more "lived in" and authentic than other major European cities that are filled with vacation rentals and somewhat devoid of the unique cultural experiences many tourists crave.  

As the sun rises over the smooth marble monuments of the Acropolis and fills the cobblestone streets along its base, the people of Athens emerge from their homes and head to local markets or sidewalk games of chess. Life moves more slowly, as if the entire city is reveling in blissful retirement from its glory days as a political and cultural powerhouse.

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• # 5 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024
• # 6 in Best Family Vacations in Europe
• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

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Best of Athens

Best hotels in athens.

• # 1 in Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
• # 2 in Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens
• # 3 in King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

Best Things to Do in Athens

• # 1 in Acropolis
• # 2 in Acropolis Museum
• # 3 in Parthenon

Popular Tours

Acropolis monuments & Parthenon Walking Tour with Optional Acropolis Museum

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from $ 38.39

Best of Athens Half Day Private Tour

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Athens Full Day Private Tour

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Athens Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Athens are between March and May and from September to November. Weather during the spring and fall months is agreeable and sunshine is pretty much a guarantee. Not to mention, crowds are thinner and hotel and airfare deals are easier to come by than in summer. But if you choose to visit between December and February (Athens's winter season), don't fret. The winters in Athens are relatively mild (with temperatures that range from the low 40s to the mid-50s), thanks in part to the country's location along the Mediterranean. June through August, meanwhile, bring stifling heat and hordes of tourists, so sightseeing can be a bit uncomfortable and quite a headache at this time.

Weather in Athens

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Skip the summer With the exception of some interesting festivals, Athens is best avoided during this hot and crowded high season.

There's no need to rent a car Stressful traffic and limited parking make a car more trouble than it's worth.

Get there early (or late) Lines at major sites can get pretty insufferable – arriving in the early morning or shortly before closing will make them more tolerable.

How to Save Money in Athens

Avoid June through August You'll end up paying more for flights and rooms, plus you'll have to deal with the city's notorious summer heat and throngs of tourists.

Walk, walk, walk Navigating around most of central Athens by foot is very doable and can actually be part of the fun, so there's no need to spend money on a car rental. Put on a pair of quality walking shoes and start exploring.

Book early Finding cheap accommodations with little lead time is difficult any time of the year. Aim to book at least several weeks or even months in advance.

Culture & Customs

Greeks are known for their hospitality toward visitors, and Athens is considered a friendly tourist destination. However, understanding Greek etiquette will help you interact with residents and blend in with society.

One of the biggest challenges for visitors is the language barrier. Greek is the official language of Athens, and while it is possible to find English speakers in most tourist areas, it's always a good idea to bring a Greek phrasebook or dictionary. Understanding body language will also help you better interact with Athenians. Be aware of your gestures; for example, the hand signal for "OK" using the thumb and index finger is offensive in Greece, and Greeks indicate "yes" – a slight downward nod – and "no" – a slight upward nod – differently than Americans.

For the most part, dress is casual; however, take into account your surroundings. When hiking to the Acropolis , it's acceptable to wear shorts and a T-shirt, but you should dress more formally when touring churches and other religious sites. If you're traveling to Athens on business, it is best to bring conservative attire: a dark-colored suit or a dress that covers the knees.

When dining out in Athens, keep in mind that most Athenians do not sit down to dinner until later in the evening, typically around 9 or 10 p.m. Although it's rude to have your elbows on the table, it's polite to keep both hands above the table and not in your lap. Tipping is not necessary, although it is customary to round up to the nearest currency note when paying with cash. Including a tip for exceptional service is also common.

The official currency of Athens is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is  before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.  

What to Eat

Central Athens is home to everything from traditional mom and pop restaurants – generally located in the older districts at the base of the Acropolis – to high-end establishments in Kolonaki. If you're looking for a great meal away from the tourist crowd, head to some of the quieter neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets or Pangrati. Keep in mind that Athenians generally don't sit down to dinner until 9 or 10 p.m.

Wherever and whenever you dine, be sure to sample authentic Greek cuisine. Some of the more traditional dishes include moussaka (lamb and eggplant in bechamel sauce), souvlaki  (skewered and grilled lamb, pork or goat wrapped in pita and commonly topped with lettuce, tomato and a yogurt-based sauce called tzatziki ) and  baklava  (crushed nuts and honey in phyllo dough). 

Seafood is also a staple of Athens' cuisine. While many central Athens restaurants have seafood on the menu, some of the best seafood-focused eateries are located in Piraeus by the Mikrolimano fishing harbor.

Pickpockets regularly target tourists on public transportation and in high-traffic areas, so it's best to leave valuables in your hotel safe and to stay alert at all times. Racially motivated harassment is common as well, especially at night in Omonia and Exarchia, so consider bypassing these neighborhoods once the sun goes down. Also, several domestic terrorist incidents have taken place in Athens in the last few years outside area embassies and by Syntagma Square. These areas are generally safe during the day, but exercise caution when visiting and be sure to avoid political protests, which are prone to violence. Public demonstrations occur annually on May 1, Nov. 17 and Dec. 6. For more details about security concerns in Greece, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Athens

The best way to get around Athens is on foot and by metro; most of the city's major attractions are located within walking distance or a short metro ride of one another. In fact, renting a car is little more than a nuisance, as traffic is heavy and parking is hard to find. When coming from Athens International Airport (ATH), located just 23 miles southeast, you can ride the metro's Line 3 or one of four EXPRESS airport buses. To get to Athens from other parts of Greece, plan on taking the train or one of the country's buses. And if you're arriving by ship from other Mediterranean destinations like Crete , Santorini or the Saronic Islands, you'll most likely dock in the port town of Piraeus, meaning you can take a short cab or metro ride to reach central Athens.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a passport that's valid for at least six months past your departure date to visit Athens or anywhere else in Greece. Americans who stay in Greece for less than 90 days do not need a visa. To learn more about entry and exit requirements for Greece, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

One of the best times to visit Athens  is in the spring when temperatures are mild and flowers are in bloom around must-visit sights like the Parthenon .

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Your guide to athens.

Athens is a modern metropolis pulsating with life, where the inescapable history of one of the oldest cities on Earth embraces the present at every turn. Visitors will be drawn here to see the ancient monuments on the Acropolis and the surrounding archaeological sites. But, don’t be fooled, this is a busy, bustling town that lives in the moment. The new face of the city – a capital city that evolves year after year – provides just as much of a reason to stay.

There are brand new five-star, boutique hotels, a seemingly endless number of Airbnb options, and cafés, bars, and restaurants with cuisines from around the world. You can find gourmet street food, designer clothes, and places to buy quality Greek products. A new network of pedestrian streets makes the entire historic centre easily accessible, and in the area’s neoclassical buildings there are many different museums to visit, alongside modern galleries.

This city is no stranger to tourism, but it does not need to rely on its past reputation. The history of the city lies at your feet, as the life of a modern European capital whirls around you. Athens is the past and the present. You’re sure to want to visit in the future.

Small towns within the city

Downtown, each district remains distinct, like the multi-ethnic Monastiraki, the ultra-popular Koukaki, the historic Plaka, or the affluent Kolonaki, downtown’s posh neighborhood. Voukourestiou and Stadiou streets are home to designer clothes shops and fun places to eat and drink. Dionysiou Areopagitou, the citiy’s most premium street, provides a walkway to the ancient and neoclassical past of the city, passing by the Acropolis Museum and the entrance to the Acropolis archaeological site. Ermou street remains the place to go for a little retail therapy. Agia Irini square and the surrounding streets have become the epicenter of evening entertainment for young people. In the evenings, the bars thump out music so that the area has its own pulsating heartbeat. And then there is Syntagma Square, where the Greek Parliament looms large along one side.

Discover Athens like never before with our curated collection of constantly updated lists highlighting the very best this vibrant city has to offer.

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The Ultimate Athens Travel Guide

Athens, a city known for its rich culture and historic significance, is a time capsule of classical civilization. Immersing yourself in the Acropolis Museum , the National Archaeological Museum, and a stroll through the quaint Anafiotika neighborhood will transport you back through the annals of time. Some of the most important must-sees in Athens include:

Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis, a monumental 5th-century BC citadel perched above the vibrant capital of Greece, is a testament to the city’s ancient glory. The Acropolis hilltop is home to a collection of significant historical structures and ruins, including the grand Propylaea, the sacred Temple of Athena Nike, and, most notably, the iconic Parthenon. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as an indispensable visit. Moreover, during the summer months, a variety of plays come to life in the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Admission is approximately 20 euros per person, or 30 euros for a comprehensive 5-day pass that grants access to numerous other archaeological wonders. For those desiring a deeper exploration, a guided walking tour is available for around 50 euros. Finally, to elevate your visit, Greece Insiders offers exclusive private experiences of the Acropolis, ensuring a personal and unforgettable encounter with this cornerstone of ancient history.

Visit the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum inaugurated in 2009, resides in a sleek, contemporary edifice, meticulously crafted to showcase the archaeological marvels within. The museum’s centerpiece is a striking glass floor, inviting you to walk above the remnants of an ancient Athenian neighborhood. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter over 4,000 unearthed treasures, including exquisite sculptures, intricate pottery, and a myriad of other historical artifacts.  Admission fees start from 10 euros.

National Archaeological Museum

A visit to Athens would be incomplete without exploring the esteemed National Archaeological Museum. Established in the 19th century, this museum is a sanctuary for one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. As you wander through its grand halls, you’ll be greeted by five primary permanent collections, encompassing a vast array of prehistoric relics, masterful sculptures, delicate metalwork, an array of vases, and minor arts, along with Egyptian and Cypriot antiquities. Among the museum’s most astonishing exhibits is the 2,000-year-old Antikythera mechanism, often hailed as the world’s first analog “computer”, retrieved from the depths of a shipwreck. Allocate at least a half-day to immerse yourself in the wonders housed here.

Hike in Lycabettus

Steeped in myth, Mount Lycabettus stands as a towering testament to the ancient Greek legend of the goddess Athena, who is said to have placed this limestone giant amidst the city. When the weather is nice, you can enjoy a beautiful hike up the 277-meter hill, the zenith of Athens. The panoramic views from this vantage point are simply breathtaking. At the peak, treat yourself to a cool, refreshing drink at the café, and if your timing is right, catch an exhilarating concert at the open-air theater that comes alive in the summer months.

Walk around the historic sites

In the heart of Plaka, also known as the “Neighborhood of Gods,” you’ll find yourself wandering amidst the ancient ruins of old Athens. Nestled near the Acropolis, this area is considered the most enchanting part of the city. Here, you’ll discover the timeworn splendors of the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, the majestic Olympieion, Thisio, and Kerameikos. During your visit, seize the opportunity to spend a magical evening meandering through these sites, where history whispers in every corner.

Walk through Anafiotika

Built in the 19th century, Anafiotika is a quaint neighborhood perched on the northern slopes of Acropolis Hill. Ideally situated near the Agora entrance and hovering above the charm of Plaka, it remains a serene oasis, untouched by the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque location, with its whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and charming little sidewalk eateries, exudes the idyllic vibe of the Greek islands. As you walk around this area, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a timeless tranquility, where it feels as if the world has paused just for a moment.

What else can you see and do in Athens?

Athens is a city celebrated for its rich cultural and historic charm. The renowned Acropolis Museum, the prestigious National Archaeological Museum, and a stroll through the picturesque Anafiotika neighborhood are gateways to the city’s storied past. Among the essential must-sees in Athens, include:

• Discover the Propylaea Athens: On the western slope of the Acropolis hill, where the gate of the Mycenaean defense formerly stood, the Propylaea of the Parthenon were constructed. This gate was most likely constructed to strengthen the Acropolis’ defenses. The name of this entrance honors French archaeologist Ernest Belule, who discovered it behind Turkish fortifications.
• Witness the Easter Vigil: If you find yourself in Athens over the Easter weekend, make sure not to miss this fascinating procession of vigils. Each year on Good Friday, tens of thousands of people form a candle-lit march throughout the city. Go to Lycabettus Hill and follow the masses up to the church of St. George, a truly captivating experience.

Is Athens a walkable city?

Yes, Athens is indeed a walkable city. Regarded as one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in Greece, Athens, much like other European capitals, offers the best sightseeing experiences on foot. By strolling through its streets, you’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and experience the authentic day-to-day life of the locals.

How can you get around Athens?

Besides walking, there are many ways you can get around Athens, such as using public transport, taking a taxi, or even cycling around the city. Below are all the ways, you can explore Athens at your leisure:

Public transport

Public transport in Athens is affordable and reliable. The subway is the easiest and fastest way to roam around. Additionally, a network of trams, buses, and suburban railways are at your service. There are also many trams, buses, and suburban railways. Tickets can be used on all types of public transport, cost about 1.20 euros, and are valid for 90 minutes.

For more extensive travel needs, there’s the unlimited pass at approximately 4.10 euros, or a five-day pass for 8.20 euros, offering great value for more extended stays. Also, the express bus service from the airport is priced at 6 euros each way. Alternatively, the subway, costing 9 euros each way, will conveniently transport you to the city center in about an hour.

For the adventurous souls unphased by Athens’ bustling streets, bike rentals offer a delightful and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Typical bike rentals begin at around 12 euros per day, with electric bicycles available at a higher rate for an even smoother ride.

Taxis provide a swift and convenient means of transportation, though they can be pricier. When opting for a taxi, ensure that the meter is running – it’s a legal requirement. Be vigilant with taxi drivers, as some may attempt to overcharge. The meter should display “1” during daytime hours. The “2” setting, indicating double rates, applies only from midnight to 6 a.m. Finally, it has become a mandatory legal requirement for all taxis to be equipped with a POS (Point Of Sale) system effective from January 1st, 2024.

Renting a car can be an economical option for those looking to venture beyond the city limits. It’s an ideal choice for exploring the wider region. Drivers are required to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver’s license for a minimum of one year, making it a practical choice for many travelers.

How many days in Athens is enough?

If you want to visit Athens, 1-3 days in the city are enough, but this number of days depends on how much time you need to arrive in the city. The city’s key attractions, including the awe-inspiring Acropolis, the informative Acropolis Museum, and the historic treasures scattered around Plaka, can be explored in a single day with strategic planning. If Athens serves as your gateway to further Greek adventures, such as island-hopping, a one-day visit can capture the essence of the city. However, to delve deeper into Athens’ captivating tourist spots, a leisurely three-day stay is recommended. Regardless of your time frame, embarking on a guided tour will enrich your experience, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant culture and delectable food scene.

Remember : It’s crucial to factor in the time required for travel between destinations. So, if you travel from a long distance (for example USA) you might find it necessary to allocate a few additional days to fully complete your trip.

What is the best month to visit Athens, Greece?

Reservations for Athens should be made from March through November, with the best times to visit being in the spring and fall. This is because the weather during these months is not too cold or hot, with the days being predominantly sunny. Additionally, the city is less crowded during these seasons, making it easier to find attractive deals on hotels and airfare, unlike the busy summer period. If you want to summer travel to Greece , you should probably equip yourself with lots of sunscreen. 

However, visiting in the winter season can also offer its unique charm. Winter in Athens is mild, with the average temperature being 10°C, thanks to Greece’s advantageous location along the Mediterranean. The months between June and August are known for the high temperatures and the large number of tourists, so sightseeing can get a bit challenging at times. Nevertheless, a winter holiday visit to Athens can be delightful, especially at Christmas, as you can take part in Greek traditional holiday festivities.

How can you save money in Athens?

As in other European cities, in Greece, there are many ways that you can risk overspending. If you would like to travel on a budget, consider some of these savvy tips:

• Opt for off-peak seasons: Avoid planning your Athens adventure during the summer high season when flights and accommodations tend to be pricier.
• Explore Athens on foot : Athens is a remarkably walkable city, especially in the central areas. Exploring on foot not only helps you save money on transportation but also allows you to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes, and you’ll be all set to embark on a memorable journey.

Extra tip: For guaranteed savings, consider booking your trip several weeks or even months in advance. This can lead to more budget-friendly options for your Athens escapade.

What can you eat in Athens?

Athens’ culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering a wide array of options to satisfy every palate. From charming family-owned eateries serving up traditional recipes to upscale dining establishments nestled in the chic Kolonaki district, your taste buds are in for a treat. Whether you crave the delightful simplicity of gyros and moussaka or the exquisite complexity of gourmet Greek cuisine, Athens has it all.

For an authentic dining experience away from the tourist hubs and a glimpse into the locals’ preferences, be sure to explore neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets, and Pangrati. One important cultural note: Greeks typically enjoy their dinners around 9 p.m., so plan your dining accordingly.

Want to gauge a restaurant’s pricing? Look no further than the salad and bread test. If the bread cover costs around 1 euro and salads are priced between 7-8 euros, you’re in for an affordable dining experience. For establishments where the bread cover is approximately 1.5 euros and salads range from 8-9 euros, expect moderate prices. For other price ranges, you might be venturing into the realm of upscale dining.

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Athens is a safe city. A great part of the city is pedestrianized, and there are usually a lot of people walking around. While navigating crowded spaces, it’s advisable to remain vigilant against pickpockets. Solo travelers can enjoy solitary moments at restaurants, bars, and iconic landmarks without a hint of apprehension.

For female solo travelers, Greece emerges as a secure haven. The consensus among many female visitors is that Greece, as a whole, welcomes solo female travelers with open arms, provided that standard precautions are observed.

How not to be rude in Greece?

The Greek people are known for their hospitality and generosity. This hospitality goes back to ancient times when people believed that a guest who came to your doorstep could be a god in disguise. Moreover, Greeks are very generous in extending invitations to social events. An invitation to have coffee with them may lead to an invitation to dinner. If you want to be polite to Greeks and not seem rude, consider the following guidelines:

• Greek people use verbose and theatrical language. Sometimes, this communication style can seem a bit exaggerated. Although, It is also very common for people to merge the discussion with other thoughts they have. In cases like these, interpretation is common, but it’s advisable to avoid this practice whenever possible.

Is Athens worth visiting?

Yes! Athens is worth visiting. Athens is a top-rated destination adorned with a wealth of historical sites. From the iconic Acropolis to the enchanting streets of Plaka and Psiri, each location exudes a distinctive ambience that promises to transform your perspective on the world.

This Athens travel guide invites you, to embark on an extraordinary journey, allowing you to tailor your stay to your desires and create remarkable memories. If you choose to explore this captivating city during the enchanting seasons of spring or autumn, be prepared to fall deeply in love with its charms. Reach out to us, and let us assist you in curating the ideal itinerary for your perfect trip.

Feeling Ready?

From our blog.

Are you planning to travel to Athens? We can help! Introducing Athens includes up to date information on the best touristic attractions , where to stay or the best areas to eat out .

Athens Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Athens
• Public Transport
• How to Save
• Where to eat
• Where to Stay
• 2-day itinerary

Athens is the capital of Greece and the country’s cultural, political, and economical hub. Birthplace of renowned artists and philosophers throughout antiquity , ancient Greek democracy had a deep influence on the design of other political institutions around the world.

There is no place quite like Athens to dive into Ancient Greece and learn about magnificent temples and imposing buildings that have remained standing for centuries.

Tourism in Athens

Athens was founded over 5,000 years ago and certain of its inhabitants have influenced the development of western culture.

The city’s numerous historic monuments make it a fascinating place to visit for tourists from all over the world . The Parthenon , the Acropolis , and the Ancient Agora are some of the most famous examples of ancient Greek buildings.

Although not all landmarks are beautifully preserved, the sum of them is surprisingly harmonious, a peculiar feature of classic architecture. Visitors will be left breathless and amazed.    

Athens has a lot to offer (not only impressive monuments), including an appetizing and varied Mediterranean cuisine . Colorful vegetables, juicy meat, and tasty cheese are only three elements of a long list of varied delicacies prepared in the purest Greek style. 

A holiday in Athens is never complete without a day trip to some of its nearby towns and villages .

How to organize your trip?

Before planning your travel, why not learn about the history of Athens and then check out the entry requirements for Greece? Once you know the basic information , then check out the most-visited tourist attractions and museums before booking your hotel and flights .

Book your hotel in advance

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we suggest visiting our search engine , where you’ll find all types of hotels, hostels, and apartments with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to a 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

• Accommodation in Athens - find the best deals

top activities

Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus Day Trip Explore Classical Greece on a trip to the Corinth Canal, Epidaurus and Mycenae. Delve into Greek history and culture by discovering the  Argolis peninsula .

City Tour + Acropolis & the Museum Tour Athens & visit the Acropolis and its museum , one of the most important museums of the capital of Greece. Ideal for first-time visitors!

Delphi Day Trip Embark on a day trip to Delphi & discover what was once believed to be the center of the world , now one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

On our  guided tour of the Acropolis of Athens , we'll explore this  iconic Greek temple complex  - a must if you visit the capital of Greece!

Hydra, Poros and Aegina Full-Day Cruise Discover three beautiful Greek islands on a full-day cruise of Hydra, Poros and Aegina and enjoy a peaceful day far from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

Ticket to the Acropolis of Athens With this entrance to the Acropolis in Athens you'll be able to visit one of the most emblematic places of Ancient Greece . Visit the landmarks of ancient Athens

Agistri, Metopi & Perdika Island Cruise Cruise with us around the stunning islands of Agistri, Metopi, and Perdika . Each has its unique charm, and you'll be able to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Enjoy the very best of Greek cuisine  on this food tour of Athens. You'll sample some of the most traditional and delicious dishes!

On this excursion to Mykonos from Athens, we'll take a ferry to and from the island , one of the most beautiful in Greece. An unforgettable day at sea!

Sunset Electric Bike Tour in Athens Embark on an enchanting sunset electric bike tour of Athens , pedaling past iconic landmarks with the mesmerizing sunset as your backdrop.

Athens Museum Pass The  Athens Museum Pass  offers access to the best museums in the Greek capital , saving you time and money. Make the most of your trip to the ancient city!

Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Explore the capital of Greece with style on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus . Learn about the history and culture of Athens as you admire its landmarks

Tourist Bus to Cape Sounion On the tourist bus to Cape Sunion you'll travel to one of the most important places of Greek mythology and you'll have an audio guide in English .

Meteora Day Trip Visit the  Meteora Monasteries , spectacular buildings that are perched on sandstone rock formations, on this excursion from Athens !

Ticket to the Acropolis + Museum With this combo ticket, you'll be able to visit the world-famous Acropolis in Athens and enjoy the wonderful art housed in its museum.

Half-Day Trip to Cape Sounion Enjoy a unique afternoon by booking a half-day trip to Cape Sounion, home to the majestic Temple of Poseidon , practically entirely surrounded by the sea.

Discover the landmarks in Athens lit up on this night walking tour around Monastiraki Square, one of the most lively and vibrant areas in the city.

Free Walking Tour of Athens Live and breathe the five thousand-year history of Athens, the foundation of European culture itself, in search of the traces of Plato, Archimedes and Zeus.

On this tour of ancient Athens and the Acropolis , we'll travel back in time to explore the Greek capital. We'll the Parthenon , Agora , Monastiraki , and Plaka .

Agistri, Moni and Aegina Cruise Traveling to Athens  and don’t know what islands to visit? On this day trip to Agistri, Moni and Aegina , swim in crystalline waters and see stunning landscapes.

Electric Bike Tour of Athens Explore Athens on an electric bike ! With this guided cycling tour, we'll experience the rich history and culture of this fascinating place.

Athens Urban Art Walking Tour Are you a lover of urban art? Discover the other side of Athens on this tour of the Psyri neighbourhood, where graffiti takes centre stage.

Athens Tuk Tuk Tour Explore Athens in a fast & unique way with this tuk tuk tour ! Plus, as a private tour, you'll be able to customize the stops according to your interests.

3-Day Classical Greece Tour Discover Classic Greece by visiting Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia & Delphos on this 3-day tour. You'll also see ancient cities like Corinth & Arachova!

Museum of Cycladic Art Ticket The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens is home to numerous Greek and Cypriot archaeological pieces. Delve in and find out more with this ticket.

Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Learn about the contributions Ancient Greek made to science and their advanced technology with this ticket to the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology .

Greek Cooking Class Learn about Greek cuisine, learn to prepare the delicious dishes and then indulge in the mouth-watering delicacies. An unmissable cooking class in Athens!

2-Day Delphi and Meteora Trip Set off on a unique 2-day tour from Athens to two of the most stunning parts of Greece : Delphi and Meteora, both must-sees.

Dinner in the Sky in Athens Enjoy  spectacular views over the ancient city of Athens while you delight your taste bus with a gourmet meal served 40 metres in the sky.

Classical Greece Tour: 4 Days Delve into the past and discover Ancient Greece on a 4-day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphos and Meteora with an English-speaking guide.

Athens Segway Tour Discover the Acropolis, Mars Hill, the Panathenaic Stadium and the ancient Agora on a segway and enjoy a very comfy tour of Athens.

Acropolis & Museum Ticket + Audioguide Visit two of  Athens's most renowned sights  by reserving your  ticket and audioguide for the Acropolis and its accompanying museum.

7 Day Greek Island Tour: Santorini, Paros & Naxos Explore three of the most beautiful places in Greece on this 7 day Greek island tour from Athens . Visit Santorini, Paros and Naxos at your own pace.

iVenture Card Athens With the iVenture Card Athens, you'll have access to more than 30 attractions in the Greek capital, with important discounts in shops and restaurants.

Athens Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket Make the most of your time in Athens to enjoy a unique, family-friendly activity with the Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket. Get ready to have a great time!

5-Day Mykonos & Santorini Package Mykonos and Santorini are two  of Greece's most famous islands thanks to their beaches and lively nightlife. Explore them on this 5-day trip!

Authentic Athens Guided Tour Tour the Greek capital in search of its monuments and lesser-known corners with this alternative tour of Athens - a different way of discovering the greek life.

Athens Shopping Tour Jewellery, art dealers, organic cosmetics... Let yourself be surprised by Greek fashion and enjoy this shopping tour of Kolonaki, the most luxurious area.

Acropolis of Athens & 6 Archaeological Sites Ticket By booking this Acropolis ticket , you'll have access to 6 archaeological sites  in the surrounding area, such as Hadrian's Library and the Olympian .

Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket With this ticket to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens , you can visit one of the biggest exhibitions about Ancient Greece in the world .

Acropolis & 6 Sites Tickets The jewels of the classic age await you in Athens. To visit them, waste no time in booking your ticket for the Acropolis  and 6 archaeological excavation sites .

Athens Riviera Electric Scooter Tour Explore the Athens Riviera in a fast, fun, and comfortable way on this electric scooter tour. You'll be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the Attica coast!

Santorini and Milos 5-Day Tour This 5-day tour around Santorini and Milos is the perfect plan to explore two of the most  beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea . 

Paros and Naxos 5-Day Tour If you're in Athens and want to visit the Cyclades , this 5-day trip to Paros and Naxos is perfect for you. An unforgettable trip around   the  Aegean Sea !

Santorini + Paros 5-Day Tour On this 5-day tour of Santorini and Paros from Athens, you'll visit two of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades archipelago . You'll love it!

Athens Hills Hike Visit the most impressive viewpoints in the Greek capital on this Athens Hills Hike. We'll admire views of the city from places like Mount Lycabettus.

Hard Rock Cafe Athens Have lunch or dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe Athens and enjoy delicious American-inspired dishes while listening to the best rock music.

Acropolis Entrance Ticket & Audio Guide Want to delve into classical Greece ? Then put on your headphones to explore the Acropolis as it once stood with this audio guide ticket .

Acropolis Museum Athens Ticket If you want to discover  Ancient Greek  culture , with this  ticket to the  Acropolis Museum , you'll admire numerous ancient artefacts from Ancient Greece.

Arachova Day Trip The most beautiful village at the foot of Mount Parnassus awaits us on this day trip to Arachova from Athens . Its history and landscapes will amaze you!

Mykonos and Santorini: 4 Days On this four day tour we'll visit two of the most famous Greek islands, Mykonos and Santorini. Two unmissable, unforgettable destinations!

On this kayak tour along the coast of Athens , we'll discover the beaches in Attica . Plus, you'll be able to swim and relax in one of these heavenly coves.

3-Day Santorini Trip If you had to choose one Greek island to visit, it's got to be Santorini ! This island offers incredible views, crystal water beaches and picturesque villages.

Electric Bike Tour of the Acropolis Explore the Acropilis and have fun on an electric bike! The Parthenon, Anafiotika, Plaka and the Panathenaic Stadium are some of the famous places you'll visit.

Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise On this sunset cruise along the Athens Riviera , you'll admire one of the lesser-known Greek coastlines as it's being tinged with orange and gold.

Athens City and Acropolis Guided Tour Join a 3.5-hour guided tour of Athens in which you’ll discover the city’s main attractions and visit the impressive Acropolis with an expert guide.

Why is our Athens travel guide better?

Introducing Athens has been written by experienced travelers who wish to help you plan your holidays to this enticing city in the best possible way, saving money and learning about everyday tips to make your trip memorable.

The information provided in this guide was updated in November 2022 . If you find a mistake or would like to make a suggestion , please do not hesitate to   contact us .

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2024 Athens Travel Guide: Explore Greece's Capital Like a Local

Key Takeaways :

• Athens is a fabulous year-round destination and following this Athens travel guide will reveal why.
• Central Athens is the best place to stay when visiting the Greek capital.
• The Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus are some of the most significant archaeological sites of the city.
• A walk around the historical center will allow you to admire the landmarks and architecture of Athens .

The enchanting view of sunny Athens, Greece,  from the top of the Acropolis . The sparkling waters of the city's extraordinary beaches.

The luscious taste of traditional Greek and Athens flavors . The buoyant nightlife and the overpowering sense of freedom its diversity gives you.

All that and many more are why an Athens travel guide will become the most significant tool during a trip to Greece,  even for the most experienced travelers .

There is no doubt that you won't help but fall in love with Athens, the largest city in Greece, from the moment you step foot in it, whether you're visiting Greece in winter or summer. The Greek islands can wait; visit Athens, and you won't regret straying from the path of other travelers!

If exploring Athens seems like a daunting task, it's because it is: there is much stuff to see, taste, do, and experience and even the locals get overwhelmed from time to time.

But, lucky for you, we have accumulated the ultimate Athens travel guide for you to experience the historic city to the fullest; as born and bred Athenians in love with their home city, it is our responsibility to make you see Athens from rose-colored glasses, even if you are first-time visitors.  

So if you want Athens travel tips, keep on reading!

When to travel to Athens

Greece is mainly advertised as a summer destination. The reasons why make a strong case: its delightfully warm climate, sandy beaches, and hundreds of breathtaking Greek islands are more than enough to deem Greece the ultimate summer haven people dream of visiting.

However, although no one can deny the beauty of the Greek islands and the mainland under the bright sunlight, it is common ground that during the high-season period between late June and late August, Greece -and some of the Greek islands in particular- attract too much attention and get overwhelmingly crowded, which may affect your overall experience.

If you're an extroverted, social individual that draws energy from the crowds, don't think twice when booking your summer holidays. However, if you prefer a more offbeat scene, you're probably better off opting for late spring or early autumn for your holidays.

In spring and autumn

Anywhere between late April and the beginning of June or the whole month of September in Athens will allow you to experience the blissful Greek summer unobstructed by the hustle and bustle of the tourist waves flooding the country; the best of both worlds!

On the other hand, this Athens travel guide will reveal to you a well-kept secret: Greece can also serve as an exquisite winter destination. Greece in January is superb, not to mention that Christmas in Greece is out of this world!

Apart from the numerous Greek islands, the country's mainland hides regions of incomparable beauty. What's more, Athens is a gorgeous all-year-round destination that will give you plenty of tour options and activity alternatives.  

Therefore, it is guaranteed that the diversity of the Greek land and Athens, in particular, offers a unique landscape that can wow even the most experienced of travelers. 

Where to stay in Athens

Spoiler alert: Athens is a big city; remember: it even hosted the largest temple of the ancient world. As a result, although it is easy to navigate, as, with any trip and destination, accommodation is a crucial issue in determining whether you'll experience your host city most advantageously.

Of course, choosing to reside in central Athens is the most brilliant move you can make; you'll be within walking distance of the most important landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum , and probably right next to a means of public transportation from where you'll be able to explore the rest of the city.

If you're more of a practical person, here are our top Athens travel guide hotel recommendations for downtown Athens, Greece, depending on the district you choose to be based on and the amount of luxury you want. It also includes some of the best romantic hotels in Athens , the best luxury hotel in Athens , and beach hotels in Athens , so make sure to take notes!

Please note that all rooms have electrical outlets in Greece, which may not be compatible with your devices. For that reason, it'd be wise to bring an adaptor with you to be on the safe side:

For 5-star hotels

In Syntagma

Electra Metropolis

Athens Capital Center

In Acropolis and Plaka

Electra Palace Athens

Athens Was Hotel

AVA Hotel & Suites

Divani Palace Acropolis

COCO-Mat Athens BC Hotel

For 4-star hotels

Elia Ermou 

Electra Hotel

Blend Hotel

Perianth Hotel

Athens Ikon

Athens Gate Hotel

Niche Hotel Athens

Herodion Hotel

For 3-star hotels

Niki Athens Hotel

Attalos Hotel

Acropolis View Hotel

Acropolis Hill Hotel

Philippos Hotel

Acropolis Select  

Of course, you can always check our Greek hotels  page, where we showcase the best hotels all over Athens and the rest of the country. Even more than this Athens travel guide mentions.  

Where to go 

Now that is a loaded question. There are such a plethora of places in Athens that deserve your time and attention that no matter how many days you may have at your disposal, you're guaranteed to fill them to the brim, as in Athens, you can find some of the best deals regarding sightseeing adventures.

Covering all possible fields, from history, nature, the most Instagram-friendly spots in Athens, and the top walking routes in Athens , to the cultural, gastronomical, architectural, and entertainment treasures the Greek capital offers in abundance, everyone is bound to find what they're looking for and then some!  

In an effort to avoid overwhelming you with my boundless rambling, in this Athens travel guide, we've broken down the places in Athens, Greece, you should unquestionably visit in the categories below. Organized much?

Top Athens Attractions

A bit about athens' history in ancient greece.

First and foremost, as you've probably already guessed, comes the rich heritage of Athens that goes back to ancient Greece, evident in every corner of the city. Athens’ history begins in the Neolithic and Mycenaean times.

The ancient city was built in the middle of the basin, around the hills of Pnyka hill, Areopagus (Mars Hill), and Philopappou Hill. You can read more about it in our Athens travel guide .

The Parthenon , the imposing temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that decorates the top of the Acropolis, became the symbol of Athenian democracy in ancient Greece and created a new model in Athens architecture.

Then, on the hill of Pnyx, Apostle Paul proclaimed in 53 AD the new religion, Christianity, in front of the members of the Supreme Court.

The first small Christian community was created under the guidance of Bishop Dionysius Areopagite , the later patron saint of our city. Finally, Athens became the capital of Greece in 1834, replacing Nafplio.

As you can see, through the years, Athens, Greece, has undergone many drastic changes that have led it to be what it is right now, offering its visitors an abundance of major landmarks in Greece from different eras.

You can read our ultimate guide to the top things to do in Athens if you need a more thorough guide around the impressive historical landmarks of the city. However, for your convenience, here is a shortlist of the most significant archaeological sites in Athens.

Our only rule of thumb for every one of them is to arrive early enough to avoid large crowds and unbearable heat.

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens, often also referred to as the 'sacred rock,' is probably Athens's most widespread archeological monument of ancient Greece and one of the city's major sites.

No Athens travel guide would be complete without it. Thousands of travelers and locals climb its steep hill every year to get a glimpse of Greece's glorious past.

Since the Acropolis' establishment in the 5th century BC in honor of goddess Athena, Athens' patron and the daughter of Olympian Zeus, it has remained the most emblematic element of the capital.

Acropolis' Monuments

Perched at the top of the Acropolis of Athens, you will find the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, where the infamous battle between Poseidon and Athena allegedly took place.

At the same time, on your way to the top of the Acropolis, you will come across some of Athens' most noteworthy monuments and archaeological sites, such as the Propylaia, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus, the oldest theater in the city.

If you visit Athens' famous Acropolis hill, don't forget to combine it with a visit to the striking Acropolis Museum, which is within walking distance for a comprehensive immersion into the ancient Greek world .

Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos

A breath of fresh air amidst the urban jungle of Athens, the Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos is ideal for long walks and, therefore, another of Athens' major sites you don't want to miss during your visit to Athens. It served as Athens' cemetery from the 12th century BC to the Roman Times.

If you visit the Kerameikos Cemetery in Athens, don't forget to also pay a visit to the Kerameikos Museum, where the findings from the excavations of the archeological site are on display, including stelae, sculptures, vases, and figurines found on the site.

Philopappos Hill

Philopappos Hill is located southwest of Acropolis Hill, offering a mesmerizing, undisturbed view of the imposing Parthenon from one side and the whole of Athens from the other.

The hill took its current name after Philopappos, a Syrian benefactor of Athens, who was a close friend to many philosophers such as Plutarch, who described him in his writings as an 'extremely generous person.'

His death caused great sorrow to the citizens of Athens, who built a mausoleum as a dedication to honor his memory. The mausoleum survives to this day, perched on the top of the hill.

Philopappos hill is admittedly one of the best places in Athens, Greece, for long leisurely walks, especially during spring and early summer. If you take one of the hill's many pathways, you will enjoy a wide variety of flora and a rare serenity.

Who knows, maybe you'll even get to meet the famous Muses that, according to legend, used to have this hill of Athens as their home! 

Ancient Agora 

The Ancient Agora of Athens was the heart of the ancient city: a large, open area that constituted the seat of justice, the political, economic, administrative, social, religious, and cultural center of Athens. Please beware that the Ancient and Roman agoras are sometimes mistakenly thought to be the same thing when, in fact, there are two separate archeological sites of great importance.

Ancient Agora's buildings

Excavations in Athens have brought to light many important buildings, such as the council chamber (Bouleuterion), public administration buildings (Royal Stoa and South Stoa), judges' offices, the mint, and the city's official archives (Mitroon).

Additionally, the Ancient Agora used to host the national library and the conservatory that covered the cultural requirement of the citizens.

The famous 'Stoa of Attalos' is also located within the Ancient Agora. Built by the king of Pergamon, Attalos, as a gift to the Athenians for allowing him to study there, the Stoa of Attalos became the main commercial building of Athens' Ancient Agora; it was rebuilt between 1953 and 1956 and has been used as a museum ever since.

See? Now you can tell the Ancient and Roman Agoras apart!

The Temple of Hephaestus and Athena

Another fantastic monument of the Ancient Agora in Athens we couldn't exclude in this Athens travel guide is the Temple of Hephaestus and Athena, which is also the best-preserved temple of Athens. It follows the Doric style of architecture and is located on the northwest side of the market, at the top of Agoraios Kolonos hill.

It was built with the famous Pentelic marble by the architect of the Parthenon, Iktinos, during the second half of the 5th century BC and has many sculptures in its decoration.

On the east facade are the Heracles tribes, and on the north and south sides are the tribes of Theseus. According to historical Pausanias, the temple housed bronze statues of Hephaestus and Athena.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was the largest temple of Greece during the Hellenistic and Roman years, with its construction having begun in 515 BC and ending in 132 AD by Hadrian. This Roman emperor became a citizen and benefactor.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is made of Pentelic marble and follows a Corinthian architectural style. Its length exceeds 100 meters, and its width is 40. As for its famous columns, they used to be 104. In total, they were 17 meters high and 2.6 meters in diameter, each weighing 364 tons!

From 500 AD, the largest temple of antiquity gradually collapsed. The pillars of the Temple of Olympian Zeus began to fall. Until the beginning of the 19th century, only 16 were standing up, but one terrible storm in 1852 threw another one, which still stands today in the middle of the ancient ruins. 

The Arch of Hadrian

Right across the street, within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Arch of Hadrian was erected in ancient Athens in 132 AD by the Athenians in honor of Emperor Hadrian for his various contributions, which served as a limit between the old and the new city.

The monument, 18 meters high by 13 meters wide, featured two inscriptions on the arch, facing opposite directions, naming both Theseus and Hadrian as founders of Athens. 

First time visitors to the Temple of Olympian Zeus shouldn't overlook Hadrian's arch. They are so close to one another it would really be a pity.

Please keep in mind that Hadrian's arch and Hadrian's Library are two separate historical monuments, with Hadrian's Library being located in Monastiraki square.

Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is where the modern revival of the Olympic Games -aka the modern Olympics- took place there in 1896. Moreover, it remains where the Olympic Flame is being delivered during all Olympic games worldwide.

It is located at the site of an ancient Greek Stadium and demonstrates the key features of one: a rectangular shape with an entrance from one narrow side and a place for spectators on the slopes of the other three sides.

Despite its glamor during ancient times, it was abandoned with the predominance of the Christian religion and the banning of idolatrous events and barbarous spectacles of Roman times.

The excessive expense for the stadium's refurbishment was mainly taken over by a national benefactor, George Averoff, for whom Athens built a marble statue that today can be found to the right of the Stadium's main entrance.

Archaeological investigations since 1836 have revealed traces of the ancient stage, and the reconstruction of the Pentelic marble stadium is distinguished by its fidelity to a large extent to the monument of Herodes in ancient Athens.

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is not the only impressive temple in Athens. Approximately 2 hours outside Athen's heart, you can visit Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon , a true architectural masterpiece and one of the best places in Greece to enjoy a sunset from was built around 444-440 BC.

For three centuries, the sanctuary was considered sacred, and a grandiose four-yearly festival was organized there with officials sailing the sea around it in a sacred ship. 

The vertical columns of the ruined temple, the magical landscape, and the relaxing atmosphere you can bask in at the southernmost tip of Athens, Greece, offer a romantic setting of unmatched beauty, making Sounio the perfect spot to visit in the company of your significant other.

Roman Agora

The Roman Agora is located close to the Ancient Agora, only a few hundred meters to the east. It is a rectangular courtyard full of shops and storerooms that served as the city's marketplace in ancient Athens.

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Roman Agoran, in contrast with the Ancient Agora, consisted of a large, open-air courtyard surrounded by colonnades on all four sides.

There were a series of shops on the eastern side, and on the southern side was a fountain. The main entrance was on the west, called 'Gate of Athena Archegetis,' and a second entrance was on the east.

Tower of the Winds

Just a few meters away from the east enclosure of the Roman Agora, you can find the Tower of the Winds, a 12-meter high octagonal building, the name of which comes from the personifications of the eight winds that are sculptured on the friezes of the building's eight sides.  

Inside the construction, there is a brilliantly designed water clock. On the outside, there is a sundial and a weather vane.

Museums of Athens

It comes as no surprise that Athens has some of the most captivating museums in the world due to its abounding heritage and impressive ancient ruins that date all the way back to ancient Athens. The Acropolis alone has filled several museums around the world.

Realizing you probably don't have time to visit each and every single one of them, here we have a shortlist of our top picks that we would strongly suggest everyone visit before leaving Athens. This is not the place to save money:

The Acropolis Museum

Yes, the obvious choice tops this list. Positioned just 280 meters away from the Parthenon, with almost 4,000 exhibits masterfully composing the permanent exhibition, the Acropolis Museum is a must-see attraction you should make time for.

Not to toot our own horn, but it is no coincidence that Acropolis Museum was ranked 11th in TripAdvisor's 25 best museums globally and has been awarded many times for its architecture!

The brilliance of the modern Acropolis museum is clear both from the outside and from the inside, as its building portrays the architectural and mathematical concepts of the classical era in ancient  Athens, consisting of four levels that accommodate the permanent and temporary exhibitions, a restaurant, a gift shop, a multimedia center, and open spaces where you can relax and enjoy the view of the glorious Acropolis.

The exhibits

The Acropolis museum exhibits include findings from the slopes of the Acropolis hill, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, along with votive offerings to Gods, worship objects, and everyday art. 

National Archaeological Museum

Believed to be one of the most excellent museums in the world alongside the Acropolis Museum due to its ample collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity, the National Archaeological Museum lies in the alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, hosted in an imposing neoclassical building painted in vibrant yellow and red colors.

Apart from its aesthetic, the National Archaeological Museum impresses its visitors with its findings.

The National Archaeological Museum covers a broad spectrum of Greek, displaying pieces from the Neolithic era, Cycladic art, Mycenaean period, Egyptian art, post-Byzantine era, and jewels from the Hellenistic period history, leaving a lasting impression on the visitors of the National Archaeological Museum.

On National Archaeological Museum's premises, you can also find one of the top Athens attractions : a 118-year-old library with 20,000 volumes, many of which are extremely rare works on art, science, and philosophy.

Unwind from your educational experience in one of the National Archaeological Museum cafés, one located outside on the edge of the square and one situated in the heart of the museum, before paying a visit to the National Archaeological Museum gift shop for various memorabilia- what a treat!

The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens

The fascinating Museum of Cycladic Art is hosted in an exquisite neoclassical building and displays an impressive Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art collection.

Its stated mission is the study of Aegean civilization, research on prehistoric, classical, and modern Greek art, as well as its dissemination and promotion.

Its remarkable collections contain approximately 3.000 objects of Cycladic, Ancient Greek, and Cypriot art. More than 500 are presented online, together with a brief introduction of the significant periods of Aegean and Cypriot archeology, essential topics, and a list of available resources.

The Benaki Museum

Another museum you can't leave off your itinerary during your trip to Athens is the famous Benaki Museum.

Founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis in memory of his father Emmanuel Benakis, the museum aims, as its website suggests, to 'preserve and make accessible as widely as possible its diverse collections; to support research onto history, archaeology and the study of material culture, architecture, photography, visual and performing arts, and literature.'

Hosted in the mansion of the Benaki family in the center of Athens, the museum exhibits Greek works of art from prehistorical to modern times while it entertains periodic exhibitions and sustains an avant-garde restoration and conservation workshop.

Over the years, the Benaki Museum has been awarded and enriched by several generous donors.  

As a result, it now includes the seaside 'Kouloura Mansion' in the southern district of Palaio Faliro that hosts Athens' Toy Museum, the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art in the neighborhood of Kerameikos, the 'Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas Gallery' in downtown Athens, the 'Benaki Museum Pireos Street Annex' on -you guessed it- Pireos Street and the 'Penelope Delta House' in Kifissia, which houses the Historical Archive Collection.

Athens Public Transportation

In order to enjoy Athens, you first need to get to it. You don't need an Athens travel guide to tell you that. Thankfully, being the capital of Greece, Athens is pretty easy to reach regardless of where you come from and the means of private or public transportation you opt for. In any case, make sure to have travel insurance; better to be safe than sorry!

Unless you're driving to Greece  with your vehicle or a car rental , there are only two possible ways to access Athens: airplane or ferry.

In both cases, figuring your way around shouldn't be too hard since there are many signs, information stations, and willing locals to provide you with the instructions you need.

If you want to be prepared beforehand, you can follow our Athens international airport survival guide , our Piraeus port comprehensive guide , or our Rafina port survival guide , which will thoroughly educate you on how to get to your desired destination most easily and more suitably for you. 

Athens International Airport

You can reach Athens' center from Athens International Airport by boarding the X95 bus, a 24-hour express bus that terminates right next to the central Syntagma Square -on Othonos street- which doubles as the point of departure.

Still, taking the railway - both the underground (Metro) and the suburban line- is the most common and convenient way to access the center of the city. The only difference between the two means of public transportation is their terminal destination, with the suburban railway terminating outside of Athens.

Therefore, if you opt for the suburban rail, get off the train at 'Doukissis Plakentias' station and hop on the Metro for the rest of the journey to Syntagma.

Of course, grabbing a cab from Athens International Airport to Athens' city center is the easiest yet most expensive way to reach your destination.

The ride will come up to around 38€ during the daytime (05:00 – 24:00) and 54€ during the late-night and early morning hours - keep in mind that the taxi fare is double from midnight to 05.00 am.

Piraeus Port

There are many ways of reaching central Athens and its top attractions from the port of Piraeus and back. However, the user-friendly Athens Metro system is arguably one of the easiest!

All you have to do is exit Piraeus Port, take the short walk to Metro line 1 (the green one), and before you know it, you'll be walking the streets of Athens' heart.

During the summer months, because of the traffic the Greek islands have, the express tourist bus X80 runs directly from the center of Athens to the cruise terminal at Piraeus port, so depending on preference, your location, and the season you'll be visiting, you can take advantage of that as well.

Please remember that you can buy your public transport tickets at the ticket booths and ticket machines found at every station. Alternatively, download the TFA mTickets App to purchase and save tickets right to your phone.

Public Transport

When it comes to navigating the city of Athens, you have several alternatives you can choose from, including buses, the Metro (Athens subway), the ISAP (railway), and the tram.

As a quick rule of thumb, the Metro is the fastest, most modern, and most efficient one, without its competence affecting its price, as the tickets for all public transport costs the same.

Taxis 

However, if you want to waste no time figuring your way around Athens and your budget is not restricted, taking a taxi is often the way to go.

Taxi cars in Greece are yellow with a 'TAXI' sign on top; they can be found all around the city, and you can stop them by raising your hand.

When hiring a taxi, make sure the taxi meter is on, as taxi drivers are infamous for trying to overcharge their clients.

To be in the know, keep in mind that the taxi meter starts at €1.29, the minimum rate is €3.44, the rate per kilometer within the city limits is €0.74, and the rate per kilometer outside the city limits is €1.29.

To ride safely and comfortably, we highly suggest downloading the Beat app. It works exactly like Uber, with the only difference being that the rides are being delivered by professional taxi drivers who practice their profession outside the app as well.  

In any case, before reaching Athens, we highly suggest you get travel insurance to travel safely and without a worry in your mind!

Eating in central Athens 

Suppose you're familiar with Greeking.me's blog, then you know that we are die-hard foodies that take Greek gastronomy and its mind-blowing creations very seriously.

Greek cuisine is an integral part of Greek culture and an element of the country all visitors should look to try for the sake of getting acquainted with an authentic, well-rounded aspect of Greece.

From delicious and nutritious breakfast to homemade local dishes, street food, and a cult-classic cup of traditional Greek coffee, here are the absolute must-try flavors you should taste and the best places in the city to find them.

Be mindful, though; no travel insurance will cover an overly full belly!

Tip: Don't forget to check out our Athens night food tour and wine tasting tour ! We are sure you will love it.

Breakfast & Brunch

For experienced travelers and devoted lovers of brunch, you'll be happy to know that there will be no need to ditch your favorite Sunday tradition during your time in Athens. On the contrary, you'll be presented with the favorable circumstance of trying Greek brunch dishes that put a local spin on beloved classics.

A shining example is the yummy 'Kayanas' recipe, a staple you'll stumble upon on most Athenian brunch menus. 'Kayanas' is essentially scrambled eggs cooked in olive oil with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese but can be found in many variations.

Yes, it is precisely as good as it sounds, even better actually, and if you try it, I guarantee all other types of scrambled eggs will taste bland to you.

For delectable Kayanas and other Greek brunch delicacies, you can read about the top  places for Brunch in Athens ; book a table, grab your sunglasses, and enjoy amazing brunch food in a local yard with the sun shining on you, warming your heart and body.

The Greek coffee culture

What's more, you can accompany your scrumptious food with a cup of traditional Greek Coffee, the proof that the wise saying 'less is more' applies to most things in life.

If you're a fan of a half caramel, half vanilla latte, decaf espresso heated only to 100° with nonfat milk and caramel drizzle on top, then maybe Greek coffee is not right up your street.

However, suppose you're a lover of coffee, the delicious drink responsible for the functionality of the most considerable portion of the earth's population.

In that case, I'm sure you'll appreciate the aromatic brew that has been essential in the locals' cupboards for hundreds of years, becoming part of the cultural heritage of Greece.

If you want to sip on an invigorating cup of proper Greek coffee, opt for one of the extraordinary coffee shops in Athens that will introduce you to the coffee culture of Athens and change the way you view and consume coffee for the rest of your life.

Traditional taverns 

The general rule you should live by in Athens is simple: the more homemade local dishes you try, the merrier.

You can savor the tasty  food in Greece across the wide selection of Athens' taverns that serve long-established recipes integrated into the local culture and celebrate the riches of the Greek land.

Featuring recipes passed down through the generations; the local dishes will delight your senses regardless of your dietary plan. 

Located in the hip neighborhood of Psirri, Enastron rembles the exact image that comes to everyone's minds when hearing the phrase 'traditional Greek tavern.'

From lush homey main courses to delectable appetizers, all in generous helpings, Enastron promises to meet and exceed your culinary expectations regardless of how high they are -you're in a Mediterranean country, after all! 

Koudounaki travel guide Athens

In the same neighborhood, but this time tucked away in a small alley that gets overlooked by people who aren't in the know, Koudounaki is a family-run tavern in Athens, where two sisters put a spin on customary dishes and serve heavenly homemade offerings you've never tasted before. 

To Steki Tou Ilia

Closer to the Acropolis, in the scenic and historic district of Thissio, To Steki Tou Ilia takes its guests on a journey back to a simpler and perhaps more beautiful time. While its menu is limited and resembles what a Greek mom would cook for her children, its simplicity is what wins people over. 

Ella Greek Cooking

For a modern spin on cult-classic Greek recipes and a great meal, head over to Ella Cooking at the beginning of Mitropoleos Street, a few meters away from Syntagma Square in Athens.

Merging traditional flavors and fresh, local products with contemporary techniques and up-to-date combinations, Ella holds a special place in the locals' hearts while offering unique homemade dishes one wouldn't experience anywhere else. 

Last but not least, Dia Tafta is another traditional tavern in Athens that combines toothsome offerings with a great atmosphere. Located in the broader region of Monastiraki bordering Psirri, the name of the tavern translates to 'the conclusion/ the gist of things.'

For the owners of this local tavern, the gist of life is 'good food, good drinks, and good company', and we couldn't agree more! 

Fine Dining

Although cozy traditional taverns are the trademark of Greece, Athens doesn't lack prestigious eateries that move Greek cuisine forward in leaps and bounds.

As a matter of fact, it is rather difficult for us to pick our favorites given the extent of Athens' selection in fine dining establishments, but as always, we'll do our best.

Before we go ahead, however, it is essential to note that fine-dining options are bound to be a lot less affordable than taverns. However, the steep prices match the quality and the experience these establishments offer.

So, although it might not be an everyday occurrence depending on your budget, it is worth celebrating a special occasion or indulging one time as a gift to yourself and your loved ones.

Speaking of indulgence, Vezene, a Greek-inspired bistro located in the heart of Athens, has managed to modernize and elevate local flavors to adapt to modern-day fine dining using high-quality, fresh local ingredients.

Vezene serves regional dishes with a contemporary spin in their taste, decorated following a trendy aesthetic that matches the restaurant's profile. The chef, butcher, and owner of the restaurant, Ari Vezené, is passionate about running his restaurant sustainably and ethically and has adopted a whole animal butchery practice. 

Another Athenian restaurant that celebrates Greek cuisine by adding a touch of sophistication to it is Vassilenas. Having opened its doors for the first time in 1920 in Piraeus as a small and simple tavern, there is no doubt that the chef has it figured out to a tee when it comes to food.

Now located in the middle of Athens, Vassilenas maintains its humble profile even though it has become one of its most acclaimed destinations for fine dining. 

Hytra is another delectable addition to Athens' fine-dining industry, having developed its gastronomic integrity based on the rich legacy of Greek gastronomy and enhancing it with a contemporary spin that involves modern upscale techniques and presentation.

With two separate menus, the 'Hytra' and the 'Hytra Apla,' the restaurant addresses two different price points with equal quality and taste. 

Offering upscale gourmet dishes to those who are looking to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, Spondi, located in the hip neighborhood of Pangrati, provides a whole other world of gourmet flavors- one you're allowed to enter only if you're willing to pay an extravagant price that however matches the extravagant offerings.

Having received multiple awards and worldwide recognition, as it is a 2-Michelin-Star restaurant and a proud member of Grande Table du Monde, there is no doubt that Spondi will be a treat for all of your senses. 

Street Food

As a cheat meal or a hangover cure after a wild night out, we like to think that street food feeds the body and the soul in Greece. 

In our experience, very few people deny the appeal of street food, especially Greek street food. Not to mention it is an excellent and tasty way to save money during your trip to Greece.

In the case of the beloved souvlaki, however, even the most difficult of eaters and the most devoted fans of healthy eating have come around to celebrate the king of Greek street food.

The reason is simple: souvlaki is the "cleanest" fast food one can have, and you can enjoy it without guilt, while it is one of the best deals for food regarding value for money.

It consists of small pieces of meat -or vegetables if there is a vegetarian option available- enclosed within pita bread, tomatoes, onion, french fries, and tzatziki, which can sometimes be swapped for some type of sauce. The meat is usually pork or chicken, while beef and lamb may also be used.

Souvlaki is a fundamental component of Athens's cuisine; it is delicious, nutritious, and cheap, so why wouldn't it be?

Therefore, it is no surprise that the city is awash with souvlaki shops that offer their take on the beloved street food that is a part of locals' and travelers' everyday lives.

Get local insight into the best places to eat souvlaki in Athens to prepare yourself for the explosion of taste you will experience during your stay in the Greek capital. 

For the locals, indulgent days include a breakfast consisting of a traditional pastry -usually made with 'phyllo' dough- that can be purchased from the neighborhood's bakery.

Ariston, a family-run bakery that was established in 1910 and famous for its 'shortcrust pastry cheese pies, Harry's Kitchen, a tiny shop that is a recent addition to Athens' culinary scene and offers unique homemade pie combinations meant to please even the pickiest of eater.

The shop wows its guests with the quality of its ingredients and its creativity, and it is one of the best bakeries you can find in downtown Athens that promise to change the way you look at breakfast forever!

Whether it is ' tyropita ' -cheese pie- 'bougatsa' -custard pie- or any other filling, such as chocolate, sausage, or even minced meat, I can't imagine trying any of Athens bakeries' offerings or local delicacies and regretting your choice!

Food Markets

Given that Greece is known worldwide for the quality of its local produce, it is only expected that one can find the fresh and delicious products that the Greek land has been generously providing its locals with for thousands of years in its capital city.

That's where Athens' Central Market and the farmer’s market tradition in Greece , especially Athens, come out to play.

Athens' Central Market -or Varvakios as the locals call it- is located right in the city's heart, right by the neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psirri, serving as the beating heart of Athenian gastronomy since its establishment in 1884.

A medley of colors, aromas, and flavors, the impressive, wide-ranging market has everything you're searching for and probably much more.

From high-quality meat to fresh fish, locally-grown vegetables, and a limitless supply of spices, most of which you've never heard of before, the central market of Athens can do no wrong.

Similarly to Athens' Central Market but on a much smaller scale, the locals source the raw materials they need for their everyday cooking in their neighborhoods' farmer's markets -or ' laiki agora ' in Greek- a dearly beloved institution that takes place weekly in all Athenian neighborhoods and has been established since the ancient times.

You can find the days and Athenian neighborhoods the farmers' market takes place weekly here .

If you're lucky, you might even come across, among the many stalls, one selling meat skewers; don't even think twice, buy a couple, and thank us later; it will be a great meal no matter when and where you choose to eat it.  

Don't fail to explore the food markets of Athens during your stay in the city; make sure to have small euro notes and change with you and your eyes peeled for the most outstanding local products in town; your whole outlook on gastronomy is bound to change after getting up close and personal with the raw materials of Greece.

Athens' Nightlife 

Vibrant, lively, exuberant, buoyant; whichever word you want to use to describe it, one thing is for sure; Athens' nightlife is an integral part of the locals' life and probably nothing you've ever experienced before; what can we say? Greeks like to have a good time!

Thankfully, Greeks also like to have options, which translates to Athens' nightlife scene, making it a mixed bag of entertainment. As a result, there are four main categories in the nightlife destinations depending on your taste and age.

Of course, if you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, you can also check out our gay Greece travel guide!

The beloved nightlife staple most cities have an abundance of, the bars of Athens are different from the ones around the world.

They are, in fact, one of Athens' top attractions. You can relax and mingle with the locals while tasting incredible alcoholic concoctions that put a modern Greek spin on classic cocktails.

The city center is swamped by bars, so finding one that fits your needs won't be hard; from jazz to rock and everything in between, the diverse side of Athens shows its face once again, providing both the locals and the travelers with endless options to choose from.

As bar enthusiasts ourselves, we have put together not one, not two, but three blog posts regarding the bars of Athens. 

I don't know if you've heard this before, but Greeks like to dance -a lot. Admittedly, the club is one of the most popular destinations for people who want to unwind and one of the best places to dance in Athens , so it is no surprise that most central Athenian neighborhoods have at least one club that people frequent until the early morning hours.

Although there are a few exceptions, as a rule of thumb, the clubs of central Athens open their doors at around midnight with the tunes of R-n-B music blasting from the speakers and close at around 7 pm with Greek pop music helplessly trying to sober the clients up.

It is a vibrant, colorful, and intense scene that is not designed for the faint-hearted and is the total antithesis of what a home buddy would enjoy. If, however, socializing is your hobby and dancing feels like second nature, the club scene of Athens will electrify you!

One of our favorite nightlife destinations and one we would highly suggest to any visitor looking for genuine local entertainment are 'rebetadika.' 'Rebetadika' are traditional local taverns that, along with delectable dishes of folk cuisine, offer live music of the famous Greek genre of 'rebetiko,' -hence the name.

The genre of rebetika can be described as the popular urban songs of the Greek public, especially those coming from an economically challenged background, from the late 19th century to the 1950s.

It's important to note that In 2017, rebetiko was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List . Therefore its cultural importance to modern Greek heritage has been officially verified.

Furthermore, being quintessentially Greek to their core, 'rebetadika' is the perfect opportunity to combine traditional Greek flavors with traditional Greek sounds in an affable environment, surrounded by locals who will delight in sharing their life stories with valuable tips for your stay with you.

Suppose you're looking for an authentic Greek evening out and are determined to keep your musical mind open. In that case, there is a wide variety of 'rebetadika' in downtown Athens, especially in the fashionable district of Psirri.

'Stoa Athanaton' has been the obvious choice for the locals since its establishment around 30 years ago and continues to be considered one of the best 'rebetadika' in town. 

From 1963 until now, 'Palia Markiza' has been a constant value in Athens's rebetiko and folk scene. The venue resembles a typical old-time Greek setting.

At the same time, the live band performs every Friday, Saturday night, and Sunday at noon, lifting people's spirits with favorite folk and rebetika songs and a menu full of traditional goodies.

Just remember that the tunes of rebetiko will probably sound foreign to you, to say the least. But don't be put off by that; bask in the sheer Greekness of the night, and you'll have a jolly good time!

Live music stages 

Always up for a good party, Greeks love to spend their nights listening to live music at music stages around the city, where the most famous Greek singers and musicians show their artistry in front of an excited crowd.

You can find anything from the famous 'bouzoukia,' meaning music stages that feature Greek pop and modern folk music and typically have a raised stage where the guests dance along with the singers, to rock and alternative rock gigs frequented by die-hard fans.

Exploring the live music scene of Athens and enjoying one of the most paramount elements of local culture is key to understanding the Greek way of life.

If we've piqued your interest, which we hope we did because it is worth it, no ifs, ands, or buts about it- you can read about the best places to listen to live music in Athens and plan your nights in central Athens accordingly.

If nothing from the aforementioned floats your boat, have a read of the five things to do in Athens at night , and maybe you'll find something that suits you better; you do you! 

Athens' Culture

Athens' abundance of cultural stimuli is genuinely remarkable and can satisfy the tastes of even the most demanding of travelers from all around the world.

From prestigious art galleries to cultural centers, the world of sophistication that unfolds before the visitor's eyes leave a lasting impression that people can't shake off. And why would anyone want to shake off any Athenian experience? Believe us when we say that one cannot help but fall in love with Athens, no matter what. 

Prestigious, fascinating, and original galleries are what Athens excels in. From contemporary paintings to unique jewelry and originally-crafted sculptures, art is plentiful in the capital city.

To make things a whole lot easier for you, you can read an all-embracing list of the best Art Galleries in Athens that will help you prioritize your stops during your Athens visit.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

Suppose you want to take a long walk amidst luscious greenery while also getting the opportunity to get a hefty dose of Greek culture. In that case, the guide to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is perfect for you.

One of the locals' favorite destinations in Athens, the SNFCC hosts the National Library and the Greek National Opera, as well as an ever-green rooftop park and ground-level sweeping esplanade, where you can enjoy a long stroll, sip on your favorite beverage, read a book, watch a play and have a ball!

Open-air cinemas

Last but not least, if you're a fan of cinema and Greek culture, combine the two with a visit to one of the open-air cinemas in Athens; a unique summer experience that will ruin any other cinema experience you've ever had, or you'll have in the future.

Watching your favorite movie under Athens' summer night sky with a Greek delicacy in hand is pretty hard to beat, don't you think?  

Athens Architecture

Being as old as it is, Athens' architecture is intriguing, to say the least, and covers a broad spectrum of styles that have dominated the city over different periods.

From antiquity until today, Athens has been decorated with buildings that reflect the city's aesthetic through the ages; it is worth mentioning that today, there are more than 10,500 buildings registered dating from 1830 to World War II, still standing, representing various typologies and aesthetics schools.

It is what we would call the unofficial architectural heritage of Athens, and it is so diverse that there is no wonder why it captures the interest of most of its visitors.

From  the awe-inspiring Athenian Trilogy  to  the Benizelos Mansion , the  Neoclassical Architecture in Athens  is probably the most prominent style you will come across, and admittedly the prettiest one.

Neoclassical is the architectural and artistic movement that bloomed around the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and elsewhere to revive the classical forms of Greek antiquity and the subsequent Roman Empire.

In Greece, this type of architecture was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with the most famous examples still standing today, such as the numerous neoclassic mansions in Plaka, our Parliament building, which was previously the Royal Palace, the old Parliament House, which is now the National Historical Museum, and the Zappeion Mansion in Athens. 

Athens' Squares

En par with the charming neighborhoods of Athens, many Athens squares seem to stand out to the public, becoming popular meeting points and trendy hangout spots for Athens' residents.

Despite being up-to-the-minute, Athens' squares are drenched in history, making it necessary for us to linger on two of the most central and characteristic ones located around the city's heart.

Syntagma Square

If you've ever been to central Athens, it is impossible to have missed the emblematic  Syntagma Square , located right at its heart, housing the grandiose building of the Greek Parliament.

While it is the second-largest square in Greece, following the Spianada Sq. on Corfu island, its compelling history makes it unique.

After the War of Independence and the establishment of the new Greek State, the newly appointed King of Greece, Otto, declared Athens as the new capital of Greece. King Otto's rule, however, was deemed unfair by the Greeks.

Eventually, the people of Athens questioned his authority, and on September 3rd of, 1843, they occupied the square, demanding the formation of an official constitution for the country.

The civilians succeeded, and Otto gave in. Hence the name of Athens square became Syntagma Square, which in English translates to 'Constitution Square.'

The monuments of Syntagma Square

At the center of the square lies a marble fountain in front of the monumental staircase leading to the  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  monument, one of the square's top attractions.

This cenotaph is being guarded constantly by the elite force of the Greek army, the Evzones.

The most important buildings surrounding Syntagma Square in Athens are Grande Bretagne - the first international hotel of the city - and the former Ministry of Transport, famous for being where the liberation of Greece from the Nazi forces in 1944 was announced. 

Monastiraki Square

Of course, no guide of Athens can leave out the colorful and historic  Monastiraki Square  that has been pulsing with life for hundreds of years.

Funnily enough, Monastiraki translates to 'little monastery,' with the name being a token left behind from the times when the square was part of a -you guessed it- monastery.

Located at the end of Ermou str., the most commercial street in Athens, and the beginning of Pandrosou, Adrianou, and Ifestou str., apart from the lively Monastiraki Square Flea Market, which offers the perfect opportunity for souvenir-shopping, Monastiraki Square is also known for its significant monuments and archaeological sites.

With Hadrian's Library, Pantanassa Church, and Tsisdarakis Mosque, which now hosts the Folk Art Museum, all located only a few meters from each other, it is apparent that one can witness the entire history of Athens, Greece, when standing at its center.

Don't skip the chance to taste Athens' best kebab souvlaki in  Thanasis  on Mitropoleos str., located near Hadrian's library, or sip on a cup of traditional Greek coffee on the charming Avissinias Square, the small square in the middle of the flea market; Monastiraki Square is a historical fairy tale waiting to be told! 

Shopping in the city center of Athens 

No one is going to blame you, it's a materialistic world out there, and everyone knows it.

Therefore, apart from the natural beauty that is lavishly available in central Athens and the historical and cultural attractions, its rich retail market is bound to catch your attention, and for a good reason: shopping in Athens, Greece, is a unique experience, especially if you know where to look for the most original local boutiques.

Since we take shopping rather seriously, not as seriously as food, but it comes a close second, we have composed  the ultimate guide to shopping in Athens ! 

Alternatively, suppose you're a conscious buyer, and ethical shopping is your thing, or you simply enjoy scavenging for treasures. In that case, you can explore the  flea markets and thrift shops in Athens , where a whole world of previously loved pieces are waiting for their new owners.

Top Beaches Near Athens

It's safe to say that its many golden beaches are high up in the ranking on Athens' pros list. Although the Greek islands are the ones that get the most praise for their idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, and visitors often forget that Athens, Greece is indeed a beautiful seaside city.

Only a few kilometers away from the city center, one can enjoy some quality beach time and indulge in the swimming and sunbathing they've dreamed of. 

Once you have your exotic cocktail in hand and a beautiful tan on your body, you'll never doubt the versatility of Athens ever again! 

Travel to Athens with kids

Visiting Athens may either be the ultimate romantic getaway, or it could just as well be the perfect family trip to share with your loved ones.

With plenty of opportunities for your children to engage in local activities that will keep them entertained and happy throughout the trip,  visiting Athens with kids  shouldn't intimidate you, and this Athens travel guide will let you know why.

Athens' vast history alone offers the most extraordinary stimuli to your kids' imagination, occupying them for hours on end. Combine that with the rich and intricate tales of Greek Mythology you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself, and you'll have a winning combination no child will be able to resist.

Greek Mythology is one of the integral elements you'll also come across during your visit to the archaeological sites of Athens, such as the Acropolis, saving the day when your kids get bored and fussy.

Visiting the Acropolis with kids

Visiting the Acropolis with kids  in particular, despite the hike up the hill and the flood of information you'll have to overcome, can prove to be one of the most joyful family moments on your holidays in Athens.

You can also combine your visit to the emblematic archeological site of the Acropolis with a vibrant narration of Percy Jackson's accomplishments through a fun guided tour, as the Parthenon in Athens is one of the  7 places in Greece to live a Percy Jackson adventure !

Now you can retrace the steps of the beloved fictional character that kids from all around the world - all the way to the middle east- worship and keep your little ones occupied and happy!

In any case, when visiting the Acropolis of Athens, make sure to have a couple of things in mind: due to the scorching weather, especially during the summer months, don't forget to bring your hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen, while also dressing comfortably and lightly, as the average temperature in Athens is rather high.

What's more, albeit you should pack light, we highly suggest you carry water and snacks with you, as hungry and thirsty kids are not the greatest of sports.

Please bring a baby sling if you're traveling with a toddler or a baby, as the Acropolis of Athens isn't one of the most famous examples of stroller-friendly premises. 

Last but not least, don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture those family moments that you will treasure when your kids are too cool to join the family exploits even if they include riddles from Olympian Zeus himself!

The best Athens Neighborhoods

Walking around the city and exploring its different neighborhoods is the most efficient way of getting to know the region, the most incredible way to marvel at Athens's top attractions, and get an insight into the locals' everyday life. A way of life a little different from the rest of the western world.

Of course, we can't omit to mention our favorite neighborhoods in the city from this all-inclusive guide, so here you go - you can click on each location's link to visit our detailed guide.

Hint : there is one neighborhood you won't be able to tell apart from the ones you see in the Greek islands. It is one of the most famous examples of Cycladic beauty, located in the middle of Athens!

Parks and Hills of Athens

Although the presence of concrete Athens is unmistakable, as expected from a capital city, right in the heart of Athens lie some nature retreats, where you can escape the hustle and bustle and recharge your batteries.

Whether you want to enjoy a luscious picnic, get introduced to Athens' flora and fauna, or just want to take a leisurely walk in search of some peace of mind, Athens will not disappoint you!

Find out about the  parks in Athens you should visit  and escape the concrete jungle where dreams are made in minutes! Of course, if you thought we'd leave that here and not tell you about the places where we like to go when we need a break from the hectic city life of Athens, you thought wrong, and we are very offended!

Here are our top picks regarding the luscious greenery of Athens:

The National Garden

Visiting the lush National Garden in Athens, one of the most famous examples of an oasis in the heart of a cement city, with its tree-lined alleys, six ponds, and pets and birds, grants a great escape from the hectic city pace and the perfect opportunity for relaxation and recreation.

The Athens National Garden, known for many years as the 'Royal Garden,' open every day from sunrise to sunset, was and remains one of the favorite walks of the Athenians.

However, many visitors to Athens are unaware of the garden's value in botany and archeology. Regardless, the garden has been designated by the International Commission on Historic Gardens and Landscapes as a rare example of 19th-century landscape architecture and Europe's cultural monument.

The history of this garden in Athens goes back to ancient Greece when it was a private garden - a gift of Dimitrios Falireas to his teacher, philosopher, and herbalist, Theophrastus.

The National Garden, stretching across 154,000m², began to take its present form during the reign of Otto, being the work of Queen Amalia, known for her love for the land and her effort to create beautiful green spaces in Athens.

From 1839, plants began to be imported mainly from abroad to Athens because queen Amalia wanted the garden to have an "exotic" vibe.

The National Garden was initially only open to the public only a few days a year when the royal couple was not in Greece. After Otto's eviction, George I took care of the Garden and established a small zoo in Athens within its premises.

In 1927, its wooden fence was replaced by the iron railings and marble pillars that we see today. The 'Royal Garden' was renamed 'National Garden' in 1974.

The garden has seven entrances around Athens, with the main one on Amalias Avenue. Walking through the intricate alleyways, which are 7 km long and 3-5 meters wide, the visitor gets lost in the vegetation that consists of 500 species of plants -some so rare you won't come across anywhere else in the western world or even the middle east.

In addition to the famous ponds, the National Garden in Athens has pergolas with benches, a playground, a small collection of birds (ducks, geese, ducks, hens, hens goats), as well as many decorative elements such as statues of leading Greeks figures that famous Greek artists have crafted.

Within the National Garden, one can also come across Athens Children's Library, founded in 1984, Athens Botanical Museum, and a greenhouse.

So plan a leisurely walk across the luscious Athenian gardens, and you won't regret it; whether it is relaxation, reading, physical exercise, or even sunbathing you're after, the National Garden in Athens will become your favorite spot in the city!

Lycabettus Hill; A Breathtaking View From the Highest Point of Athens

A treat to the romantics among us,  Lycabettus Hill  is one of the most dreamy places in Athens that no one -yes, even you cynics out there- should miss.

With a height of 277 meters (745 ft), Lycabettus is the tallest hill in Athens, offering a panoramic view of roughly the entire capital city, including its most prestigious archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis, which stretches for miles in a wide mesa surrounded by high mountains and the sea.

In antiquity, even though Lycabettus Hill was larger and higher, its lack of natural springs sealed its fate as inferior to the neighboring hill of the Acropolis, resulting in its remaining unoccupied.

However, Lycabettus' mystifying entice created a world of myths around its creation. According to the most popular one, the hill of Lycabettus was formed after the goddess Athena dropped a rock she was carrying.

During medieval times, a small church was built on the top of the hill on the grounds of an ancient shrine, which the visitors of the hill can still admire. Today, perched on the top of the hill, you can also find a luxurious bar/restaurant where you can enjoy local delicacies and a striking view of Athens that extends all the way to Piraeus port, which will leave you speechless.

Accessing the Lycabettus Hill

Accessing Lycabettus Hill is relatively easy: you can either drive up to a point and continue on foot, or you can opt for a cable car that is available at the end of Plutarch Street, which is probably the best favorite way, as the ascend is both fun and quick.

Lycabettus Hill will tick all of your boxes if you are a lover of nature and spine-tingling views. We promise that you will feel just like Olympian Zeus overlooking the Greek capital! 

Beyond Athens

Sounio and the temple of poseidon.

Within a 1,5 hour drive along the delightful coastline of Athens' Riviera lies another impressive archaeological site of Athens that, apart from its historical interest that goes back to ancient Greece, also possesses an unrivaled beauty resulting from the triumphant combination of the ancient columns against the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

The Doric Temple of Poseidon stands perched on top of a cliff overlooking the crystal-clear waters and giving Sounio's visitors a sight to behold.

Giving off an island life ambiance despite being 70 km from Athens' city center, everyone should take their sunglasses, camera, and high spirits and visit the southernmost point of Athens that is easily accessible while being utterly breathtaking.

Sounio's many inviting beaches are perfect for a quick swim, apart from enjoying the archaeological ruins.

Plan a  day trip to Sounio  to catch its magnificent and much-talked-about sunset in the afternoon. Moreover, enjoy an atmospheric dinner in one of its seaside taverns; a wonderful time is guaranteed whatever you choose to do. 

Islands Near Athens, Greece

A little more than an hour away from Athens -or 40 minutes if you opt for the speed boat- you will find the  island of Aegina , one of the best examples of the Saronic islands, which compensates for its small size with its vast history that dates back to ancient Greece and good looks.

The city of Aegina is dominated by buildings that follow 19th-century architecture, giving the island a vintage vibe everyone loves.

Embrace the island's heritage by paying a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Kolonna or taking a trip to the historic Temple of Aphaea, a temple that holds a strong resemblance to the Acropolis of Athens.

Enjoy the island's stunning beaches by swimming in Agia Marina, the blue flag-awarded beach on the island. Take a scenic stroll throughout the length of the picturesque port and gobble down fresh fish and seafood in the welcoming seaside tavernas. We promise it will be a day you'll never forget!

Ten minutes away from the island of Aegina and around 1,5 hours away from the port of Piraeus, Agistri is another gem of the Saronic Gulf, wonderfully picturesque and significantly smaller than its neighboring islands.

Its lush landscape, dominated by dense pine forests and crystal clear waters, has placed the small island very near and dear to the Athenians' hearts, who visit the island at every opportunity.

During antiquity, the island was known as Cecryphaleia, with many of its ancient settlements now lying underwater, mainly in the western part of the island.

Among the top attractions of the island is the Folk Art Museum at Megalochori, a small museum that will transport you back in time and introduce you to the past everyday life of Agistri islanders.

Don't hesitate to plan a quick trip to Agistri to experience for yourself the laid-back life of a Greek island without having to spend too many hours on a boat!  

Last but not least, the island of Spetses is undoubtedly the most picturesque of the Saronic islands and probably of most Greek islands, looking like it has come straight out of a fairytale. Spetses combines revolution and tradition sprinkled with superb cuisine and spirited nightlife.

It is classy and sassy, and makes you fall in love with it right from the get-go.

One of its additional perks? Cars are not allowed on the island, meaning that it is always quiet and peaceful, following a slowed-down pace most of us beg for. No one can deny that it offers one of the best deals for summer vacation! 

If you  explore the Greek islands near Athens  or even a bit longer, and you'll soon realize that their proximity to the city doesn't take away from their beauty; on the contrary, it adds to it the element of convenience and ease, precisely what people look for during their holidays!

Day Trips From Athens, Greece

If you want to broaden your horizons without getting too far away from Athens and its striking Acropolis, there are several options for a day trip from Athens, filled with guided tours you should consider.

From Athens to Delphi

The site of Delphi was the most famous and notable oracle in ancient Greece. Praised worldwide, visitors from across the globe used to come seeking the prophecies of God Apollo. Traditionally, the only person allowed to enter the sacred chamber of Apollo's temple was his high priestess, Pythia.

Sitting on a golden tripod covered with the skin of Python, Pythia inhaled the fumes coming out from the chasm and chewed laurel leaves while giving out prophecies that were believed to come straight from the god's mouth.

Take the approximately 2-hour drive from Athens to marvel at the archaeological site of Delphi and immerse yourself in ancient Greek spiritualism. Since your trip to this transcendental destination will be entertaining and educational, check out the  things you’ll learn on a day trip to Delphi . The captivating stories you will hear and the striking landscapes you'll get to enjoy will make your day trip an utter success!

From Athens to Nafplio

At the shores of the Argolic Gulf, located in the striking peninsula of the  Peloponnese  and only a couple of hours away from Athens, Greece you can find one of the most whimsical and romantic cities of Athens, Nafplio. The city of Nafplio, much like every corner of Greece, has a far-reaching past that is evident in its architecture.

Fun fact:  Nafplio was the first capital of the modern Greek State, before Athens, and the place where the murder of Ioannis Kapodistrias, a Greek statesman who served as the Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire and was one of the most distinguished politicians and diplomats of Europe, took place Its charm, however, doesn't derive only from its heritage.

The city of Nafplio harmoniously combines its history with a flawless urban aesthetic, incredible beaches, and an intense cultural agenda that keeps its visitors on their toes. Here's a  guide to Nafplio  to make your day trip a smooth sail!

From Athens to Ancient Corinth

With an impressive history that dates back almost 8000 years, it stands to reason that the region of Corinth has played an integral part in ancient Greece and the development of not only modern Greece but the whole western world as well.

From hosting one of the most significant sports festivals during antiquity to becoming a founding city of Christianity, Corinth has changed the world as we know it.

Located 80 km. southwest of Athens, Corinth is the only county bordering the region of Attica and is, therefore, perfect for a short excursion or a day trip from Athens.

Due to the magnificent waters of its sea and its small, scenic villages, such as Vrachati, Kiato, Derveni, among others, it also offers an ideal setting for your summer vacations and a great alternative to the Greek island.

But, of course, when talking about Corinth, one cannot leave out the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where the famous Temple of Apollo - not the largest temple, but certainly one of the most popular ones- the mythical Fountain of Glaucus, the street of Lechaio, the Asklepieion, the ruins of the theater, and the conservatory, as well as the remains of a series of fountains adorning the city, are waiting to be explored.

Just 3km from Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, the oldest castle in the Peloponnese, is built 575 meters above the ground, providing visitors with a mind-blowing view of the prefecture.

Don't wait any longer: plan your trip to Corinth and stop to snap Instagram-worthy pictures of the impressive Corinth Canal on your way to the city.  A comprehensive guide to Corinth  will ensure your life will be made a lot easier during your short time there; enjoy!

From Athens to Meteora

Often described as 'the place between heaven and earth,' Meteora is one of the most awe-inspiring regions of Greece and the western world despite being far away from the sea. Located in the region of Thessaly, Meteora is a place that calls for isolation, seclusion, and spiritual wondering.

The region is famous for its steep rock formations that hold no resemblance to any landscape around the world, on the tops of which some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world are still perched.

The geological miracle of Meteora is located in the northern part of the region of Trikala, nearby the modern city of Kalambaka. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a visit to the otherworldy land will help you realize why in a matter of minutes!

From Athens to Mycenae

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Mycenae , occupies the hillsides of the Peloponnese close to the modern town of Argos.

It is the city that named a whole civilization after itself, something which is indicative not only of its great importance to the then-known Greek world during the ancient times but also of its old age; it is known that the excavations that have taken place on the region of Mycenae have unveiled monuments so old that even ancient Greeks considered them ruins of antiquity.

Erected in a naturally guarded and reinforced location, you can't help but notice the Acropolis of Mycenae standing tall upon your arrival to the historic region.

Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of the area and get to know the birthplace of Agamemnon; it is no coincidence that Mycenae served as one of the most significant sources of inspiration for Homer!

From Athens to Epidaurus

Νοt to toot our own trumpet, but Greece is full of places that have earned a spot in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, and the Theater of Epidaurus is one of them.

Located in the beloved region of the Peloponnese within a couple of hours from Athens, the short drive to Epidaurus will reward you with a luscious natural landscape and an archaeological site that exceeds the expectations of even the most demanding of travelers.

The open theater of Epidaurus is said to be the best-preserved in all of Greece, maintaining its glamor up to this day and making the whole region a must-visit destination for Athens' visitors, who can even enjoy a modern play on its ground if they plan their visit to coincide with the annual Athens and Epidaurus Festival that takes place during the summertime.

The theater is famous for its unmatched acoustics, attributed to the architecture and the materials used for its construction in ancient Greece.

As a result, you can hear a pin drop at the exact same volume no matter where you sit, elevating your theater experience to another level. There is no doubt about it:  Epidaurus , and all lovers of theater and culture should hurry to it!

From Athens to Nemea

Known for its superb wine production that has its locals engaged with the -almost sacred- process of winemaking in Greece since the days of yore, Nemea lies on the border with the prefecture of Argolis and is surrounded by countless vineyards.

Apart from the many indigenous wine varieties you must try, there are archaeological monuments that are also worth your time. Some include the Temple of Jupiter, the baths, and the Nemea Stadium.

Most people, however, are familiar with Nemea -even if it's just its name, they're familiar with- from the famous tale of  Greek Mythology  regarding the labors of Hercules, and in particular, the killing of the Nemean lion, one of the most popular tales of ancient Greece.

If you're an admirer of history, wine, and all things nice, we highly suggest you visit this brilliant part of Greece conveniently close to Athens. Check out the  top things to do in Nemea  and make the most out of your day trip! 

Athens' Itineraries

If you want a complete and specific day-by-day guide on how to spend your days in Athens without being restricted to the famous Acropolis, we have everything under control as I have designed the ultimate guidebooks for your stay in the historic capital that include the best deals in guided tours you can during your trip to Athens.

More Reasons to Visit Athens

If you're that much of a doubting Thomas and need even more reasons to visit Athens than what is already stated in our Athens travel guide, we're happy to report that we still have multiple fail-safe get-out-of-jail-free cards for you.

Visit Athens for special occasions

Moreover, If you're a bride or a groom-to-be, you can get inspired by some of the best ideas for your bachelor and bachelorette getaway in Athens, Greece to help you live up to the last days of your life as a single!

Finally, suppose you want to visit Athens on a business trip and look for the best team-building activities in Athens, Greece such as a street art tour or cooking classes. In that case, you're in it to win with suggestions that will impress your colleagues;  Athens' street art and local cuisine are as impressive as our Acropolis and the culture that has inspired the Western world!

Final Thoughts

And voila, there you have it: the ultimate  Athens travel guide  that will make you feel cooler than the other side of the pillow and help you get around the city during your trip with ease, competence, and confidence, even if you're not some of the most experienced travelers.

Athens is truly one of the most incredible destinations around the world -and has been since the golden ages of  ancient Greece . With an average temperature of 28°C and archeological sites such as the Acropolis and Hadrian's Library, it is hard to beat.

Although the  Greek islands  get most of the hype, Athens, the capital city, with its ancient charm, urban aesthetic, and travel deals, is just as gorgeous and fascinating while also being diverse, vibrant, and fabulously welcoming; perfect for your summer trip!

No matter if you arrive at Athens International Airport, Piraeus Port, or Rafina Port, the city of Athens is exactly where you need to be.

Visit Athens, Greece, by booking one of our Greece vacation packages , and you'll get to find out the beauties of the largest city in the country for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is athens safe for tourists.

Athens has been described as an attractive destination even for female solo travelers. The crime rates are low, so you'll always feel safe at home. The majority of trips go smoothly. However, pickpocketing is something you should be mindful of,  especially in subway stations or busy tourist destinations.

Is it worth visiting Athens, Greece?

Athens is one of Greece's gems, and spending time there is a blessing. Despite being overlooked by many tourists in their haste to visit the Greek island, the wealth of culture and history the Greek capital offer is incomparable.

For that reason, we would highly suggest you design your itinerary to include at least a couple of days in Athens to get the full Greek experience.

How many days do you need in Athens, Greece?

Ideally, four days in Athens are usually enough to visit most of its attractions and get an authentic feel of it. It's possible for you to travel back to the beautiful capital of Greece after your tour of the Greek islands, but for those interested in a more immersive experience, a four-day stay would be the best option.

At the same time, if you're dead set on not spending time in a big city, you could fit the highlights in a couple of -busy- days. 

Is Athens good for a city break?

With all the sights to visit, Athens offers everything you could possibly desire. Ancient Greece's remnants are everywhere, from the Acropolis Museum to the Ancient Agora, and we can confidently say that Athens is the ultimate city break. 

Is it worth just going to Athens?

Athens is certainly a popular destination for tourists in Greece. The ancient city has plenty of treasures, and the modern attractions make visiting Athens worthwhile at any time. So yes, it is well worth just going to Athens. Its rich culture, vast history, local delicacies, and amazing coast will make sure you don't regret your choice. 

How do you get around in Athens, Greece?

The best way to get around during your visit to Athens is by foot and Metro; the most important sites of the city are easily accessible. You can also opt for rentals or, even better, book a transportation service that will take you comfortably and easily anywhere you want to go. 

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Planning a Trip to Athens: The Ultimate Travel Checklist

• Last Updated on: Jan 25, 2024
• Read Time 18 mins
• Published: Mar 20, 2020

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You’ve already heard and read about the wonders of Athens, the archaeological sites, the Parthenon, the sandy beaches, the nearby islands, and the picturesque city center. Now it’s time to visit this intriguing destination yourself. But where do you start? How do you prepare for a relaxing vacation with no unpleasant surprises? This travel checklist will cover all the things you need to consider before you start planning your trip to Athens, Greece, and answer all your questions to help you ensure that your holiday will be no less than flawless. In addition, at the end of the article, you’ll find a quick guide for first-time visitors to Athens that will go through all the things that should be on your bucket list and all the attractions you should not miss when you get there. So, keep reading, make sure to tick all the boxes off your travel checklist, and prepare for the most unforgettable vacation.

Travel Checklist for Athens, Greece

This 10-point travel checklist should be your starting point and your most trustworthy travel planning partner if you want a seamless vacation. After all, what better way to prepare for a trip to Athens than to get all the information you need directly from the locals? Without further ado, here’s all you need to know about your upcoming Athens trip.

1. Get your passport ready and check the visa requirements

Greece is one of the only two countries in the Balkans that is a part of the Schengen Zone which means that if your passport was issued in a country that also belongs to the Schengen Zone, you will not need a visa to get to Athens.

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong S.A.R, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao S.A.R, Macedonia, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Samoa, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Timor Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela

Keep in mind, however, that some of these countries have some special requirements you have to meet before being allowed to travel within the Schengen Zone without a visa. It’s always best to check with your local authorities beforehand.

Also, note that the 90-day period starts counting from when you land in any Schengen country. Lastly, it’s always best to travel with a passport that expires no less than 6 months from the date of your trip.

If you have any questions regarding your passport or visa status after arriving in Athens, we recommend checking with your country’s embassy or consulate. You can find an extensive list of foreign embassies and consulates in Athens here .

2. Book your flights early

We always say it, but there is no way to stress this enough: if you want to get a cheap flight to Athens, you’ll have to book your tickets early!

Tip : Aviasales searches travel and airline sites to help you find cheap flights at the best prices . Search for tickets with 728 airlines and leading ticket offices and get the best prices on flights.

Especially if you’re traveling from faraway places like North America or Australia, booking your ticket well in advance will not only guarantee that you get a good deal but also that there will be enough time for you to schedule all your activities in time and book any tours, ferry or train tickets you will be needing.

You can book any tours or tickets here .

Greece is primarily a summertime tourist destination. Thus, many more flights are operating during the summer months to choose from.

Sometimes, flying to Athens and then getting on a ferry or another flight toward the islands is quite cheap. Plus, you might get the chance to spend a day in Athens – or more!

In our experience, you can get the best deals by searching and comparing flights on Aviasales , a cutting-edge flight search platform with frequent offers and real-time updates.

3. Plan your Athens itinerary

Regardless of how much time you plan to spend in Athens, you should always be one step ahead and have an organized schedule.

A well-crafted itinerary always makes for an enjoyable trip. The first thing you’ll need to ask yourself before starting to plan every step of the trip is what kind of vacation you are looking for.

Save Money : If you are planning to visit some must-see archaeological sites in Athens, plus the Acropolis Museum it is much cheaper to buy the Athens Pass than to buy single tickets.

Athens Pass Tourist Card: Skip-the-Line Tickets for All the Must-See Attractions in Athens

Athens combines nature, culture, urban walks, gastronomy, and nightlife in an exciting blend that will make this decision difficult.

We have some good and some bad news for you. The bad news is that fitting everything into your Athens itinerary will be impossible. But here’s the good news: whatever you choose to do on your vacation, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re planning to stay in Athens for more than a week:

You’ll have plenty of time for the most famous attractions and explore the city’s best neighborhoods at your own pace. So why not take it a few steps further?

We highly recommend taking a day trip away from Athens to discover one or more of the country’s famous sites like the unique Meteora , the enigmatic site of Delphi , or Ancient Olympia .

You can find a few more ideas about great day trips from Athens right below.

Best Day Trips From Athens To: Ancient Sites – Islands – Towns

If you’re planning to stay in athens for less than a week:.

Of course, you should prioritize visiting the must-see attractions , but you’ll also have the chance to explore some lesser-known spots.

Start by discovering the hidden gems of Athens , make sure to dive into the vibrant nightlife, and don’t forget to get a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. Last but not least spend some hours exploring Anafiotika, the hidden island under the Acropolis .

Now, if sandy beaches are what you are after, consider taking a short cruise to the Saronic Gulf islands.

The Ideal Day Trip From Athens to Saronic Gulf Islands

If you’re planning to stay in athens only for a few days:.

If you’re planning a weekend in Athens , the top attractions like the Parthenon and Acropolis Museum should be at the top of your list.

You’ll also have time to explore a few of the city’s most famous neighborhoods like the picturesque Plaka and the famous Monastiraki .

We highly recommend booking a guided tour to these places to save time and make the most out of your visit to Athens.

Finally, if you’re only visiting for a day, have a look at this guide to planning the perfect one-day itinerary for your trip. And don’t worry if you don’t make it to all of the stops; you can always come back!

4. Book your activities in advance

Apart from day trips and island cruises, there is a wide array of options for activities in Athens you can choose from.

From urban sightseeing walks that will take you through the most famous attractions, nightlife walking tours, and charming rooftop sunset tours to street food tours and watersports activities, there is not much you cannot do in Athens.

Keep in mind that if you are traveling during the tourist season of Greece (April to September), you have to book any activities in advance to secure a spot.

Try having a look here for more exciting ideas and tours with guaranteed lowest prices in Athens.

5. Book your accommodation

If you are a frequent reader, you already know that we mention this a lot, but this simple tip is perhaps the most important piece of advice you must follow.

Book your hotel right after you book your flights!

Athens is indeed home to many hotels, but that doesn’t mean that all of them offer high-quality amenities at reasonable prices or are located in privileged spots in the city.

Discover the Best Hotels in Athens: A Guide to the Best Areas to Stay

If you want to get a good deal for your stay in Athens and be sure your money is well spent, you must book in advance.

One of the hotels we usually recommend to our readers is the Attalos Hotel .

This hotel is located in a perfect location within a 15-minute walk of all important sights, restaurants, and interesting neighborhoods.

Check some photos and reviews on Booking.com

We recommend using booking.com , one of the largest booking platforms worldwide to make sure you get access to exclusive offers. Plus, you can get free cancellation for bookings made even months before your arrival.

6. Pack your bags

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but we’ve all had trips ruined by forgetting some of our most essential things. Make a packing list and be sure to include the following:

• Beach attire and accessories . Downtown Athens is just a breath away from a few spectacular beaches . Ensure you have your swimsuit and anything else you might need at the beach.
• Sunscreen . Even if you don’t plan to go to the beach, the summer weather in Athens can be cruel. You don’t want to get sunburnt while walking up the Acropolis or strolling down the sunny streets in the city center.
• Medication . Even though there are pharmacies everywhere in the city center, buying almost anything requires having a doctor’s prescription and you will have a hard time buying even common medicine. ( Pro tip : if you’re planning to travel by ferry, make sure to pack some seasickness pills for windy days).
• A smartphone . You’ll even be able to purchase a SIM card in Athens and have a local number with just your ID. Having a smartphone with a local number will also allow you to use taxi apps in Athens.
• Appropriate clothing . Make sure to pack a pair of sneakers for all those long walks up and down the hills of Athens and a spring jacket even if you’re traveling in the middle of the summer. Nights in Athens can be chilly, especially in places near the seaside like the Athens Riviera .

7. Have some cash ready

The monetary unit of Greece is the Euro. Most major credit cards are accepted throughout Greece but we recommend that you try to make some exchange and have cash with you before getting to downtown Athens.

A few (though rare) restaurants, cafes, and kiosks still do not accept credit cards. Also, remember that you won’t be able to use a credit card with street vendors or taxis.

If you don’t want to carry cash with you on your flight, you can exchange any currency at the Athens International Airport by withdrawing money from the ATMs or at the currency exchange booths.

8. Prepare for your arrival

It’s time to get prepared for all the practical stuff. The main concern you will have as soon as you arrive in Athens will be how to get to the city center and locate your hotel.

If you plan to land at Athens International Airport , you will have three different transportation options: the metro, the bus, or a taxi.

The metro station is located right outside the airport and is a terminal stop (blue line). Boarding the metro will take you to Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Kerameikos in downtown Athens , as well as the port of Piraeus.

In addition, four bus routes (X93, X95, X96, X97) head in different directions throughout Athens and all the way to Piraeus port .

The metro ticket costs €9 and the bus ticket to Athens or the port of Piraeus costs €5.30 .

If you want to save time, we recommend getting a taxi. There is a fixed price for rides from the airport to the city center at €40 in the daytime (05.00 – 00.00) and €55 at night (00.00 – 05.00).

That is all the information you need to get from the airport of Athens to the city center . For more information on how to get around Athens after you have reached downtown, have a look here .

9. Learn a few common words in Greek

Communicating in English while in Athens -and especially at all the tourist hotspots- will not be a problem. However, learning a few words in Greek will be a fun way to make your way around, and it will surely put a smile on people’s faces. Here are a few words you need to know to make a great first impression:

• Hi – Yah
• Yes – Né
• No – Okhi
• Thank You – Efkharistó
• Please or Welcome – Parakaló
• Do You Speak English – Miláte Angliká?
• I don’t speak Greek – Den miláo eliniká
• Excuse Me – Signómi
• Good Morning – Kaliméra
• Good Evening – Kalispéra
• Goodnight – Kalinikta (only say this when you are bidding someone goodbye)

A Quick Guide for First-Time Visitors to Athens

We’re not done yet! If you need a travel checklist for Athens, it’s safe to assume that you are a first-time visitor.

So, after ticking off all of the boxes above, we’ll give you a little bit of information on our beloved city so that you get to know it better before arriving.

When Is the Best Time To Travel To Athens?

The most convenient period to travel to Athens is during spring and autumn because of the pleasing weather with temperatures that are not as hot as the summer months but still warm enough to enjoy your stay.

Also, there are fewer visitors during these periods, meaning that all the famous sites and museums will be less crowded and the hotels cheaper and easier to book.

Wintertime is also quite an interesting time to visit Athens if you want to experience the city without all the flashy touristy stuff, like a true local. You can get a feel of what visiting Athens in the winter could be like by going through this guide .

Summertime is the peak tourist season and when the city is at its busiest.

If you can handle the tourist crowds and the hot weather, visiting Athens in the summer will be an unforgettable experience, especially if you plan to go on a day trip to an island or enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

If you want to read more about when is the best time to visit Athens, please read this detailed article .

Tradition and Culture of Athens

Greece is a country full of culture, customs, and traditions that date back thousands of years.

And while it’s true that Greek culture is best experienced in small places in the countryside, you’ll find that Athens will make for a trip completely different from anything else you have experienced in Europe – or the world!

If you’re lucky enough to visit on Christmas or Easter, you’ll get the chance to witness unique festive celebrations and get in touch with local culture.

Christmas in Athens: Weather – Tips – Where to Go and What to Do

Also, don’t miss out on joining any local event. A Greek wedding or christening feast would be the best example, but simply hanging out with the locals at a tiny taverna or a traditional kafenion will be enough for you to get in touch with Athenian culture .

Hospitality in Athens

Greek hospitality is definitely not a myth, even in the big city of Athens! Just spark a conversation with any local, and you’ll soon discover that Greeks are big on hospitality.

People are friendly and will be more than happy to give you instructions on the street or help you out with anything you need.

The uniqueness of Greek hospitality is also reflected in the hotel’s services and staff and the local gastronomy scene.

What You Should Not Miss When You Visit Athens

You shouldn’t miss the lovely walk around the Acropolis (built for the Olympic games and finished in 2002), starting from the site of the Arch of Hadrien and the Temple of the Olympian Zeus , passing by the amazing theatre of Herodes Atticus, and descending to Thissio , where you can enjoy a drink or a coffee in one of the nice cafés with view on the Acropolis.

A guided tour of the ancient sites of Athens is strongly recommended

Make sure to reserve an entire morning to visit the majestic Acropolis , some of the best museums in Athens, and the lovely little theatre of Dionysus on the southeast slope of the Acropolis.

Check out this skip-the-line ticket for all the sites in Athens.

Combined Ticket for the Acropolis & all the Archaeological Sites in Athens [Skip the Line with a Single Ticket]

Places to go when in athens.

Start by walking around the city center between the small streets of Plaka and pass by the flea market in Monastiraki.

Please your senses with colors and odors at the Athens Central Market on Athinas Avenue, home to local fruit and vegetable vendors and little shops selling nuts, herbs, honey, and dried fruits.

Read our detailed article about the Athens central market and learn how to get there, the opening hours of the Varvakeios, and many more.

A Hidden Foodie Oasis: Visit the Athens Central Market

You can also take a walk in the district of Psiri where you can find a lot of artisanal shops, a few modern shops with home furniture, as well as several restaurants and tavernas, trendy bars, and wine places.

Of course, you must visit Lycabettus Hill and enjoy the wonderful view from there. Lycabettus Hill is a vantage point that gives a great view of the city of Athens below.

On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Parnitha in the north, Piraeus in the west, and the Saronic Gulf in the south.

Lycabettus Hill, which means “Hill of Wolves,” is the place to be on “Clean Monday,” which is the first day of Lenten according to the Greek Orthodox Church. Athenians gather here to fly kites on this day, and the sky is full of colors.

Cabs go half the distance and then you have to walk to the top.

Another option is to take the funicular and you’ll cover the distance in two minutes. The cable cars are available every half hour from 9 am till midnight.

Syntagma Square is another place you can’t miss. Look at the imposing neoclassical building of the Greek Parliament (the old king’s palace) and take a few photos of the Evzones (Greek guards wearing the traditional fustanella skirt, hat, and shoes) who guard it.

Syntagma Square in Athens: The Central Meeting Point of the City

Finally, for a bit of freshness and nature, go for a walk in the National Garden or the charming Gardens of Zappeion.

And that’s just the beginning. Check out our guide on the top things to do in Athens here , and tailor your itinerary to suit your tastes and preferences.

That’s all the essential information you will need to start planning your trip to Athens.

We hope that you find our travel checklist for your upcoming trip to Athens useful and that you’ll be able to enjoy this marvelous city absolutely stress-free.

Follow our tips, and we are certain that your vacation will be one that you will never forget.

Athens Uncovered: Must-Visit Places for Every Traveler

A Quick Reminder:

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A Snob’s Guide to Athens

Here's an urban odyssey defined, as good ones always are, by the people encountered on the way.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

In summer I stay at the Four Seasons Astir Palace , with its great beach and delicious Taverna 37. The Grande Bretagne is my other home away from home, its location and rooftop view unbeatable. I have also been recommending the Perianth Hotel , for design fans, and I’m excited to see the new Dolli at Acropo­lis . For houses it’s always @FiveStarGreece . I book through Konstantinos Bastas ([email protected]) and always reserve an archaeological tour with Michael Patmanidis. And before I set foot in the Lalaounis store or Martinos antiques, or book a concert at the Herodion with pre-theater dinner at Attikos and a walk along the beautiful Dionysiou Areopagitou path, I grab a frappé sketo (no sugar, no milk). These three local eminences determine what I do next.

Walking with Peter Poulos

Expat and athenian flaneur.

We start at the National Garden , near Syntagma Square, a wonderland of plants, parrots, exercising Evzones, and chic Athenians. We head next to Ariston Bakery , for one of the city’s best pitas, then across the street into an Athenian stoa (think proto–indoor mall) to Aristokrat­ikon chocolatiers, a favorite of Princess Grace’s. Before lunch a cup of mountain tea at Athenée , formerly the famous Zonar’s. Then to Vou­kourestiou Street (Lalaounis on the corner!), with its elegant shops. (I’m a fan of interwar architecture, and the neighborhood of Kolonaki is loaded with it.)

We continue up the hill to my favorite restaurant in Athens, Papadakis , then stroll down Fokilidou Street . The big finale is the Benaki Museum of Greek decorative arts. At which point we’re ready for a well-made martini at The Clumsies , followed by dinner at Nolan (Japanese-Mediterranean fusion) or the more classic Filema on Romvis Street. Greeks do an evening walk: Take the back streets of Pláka with a final lap around the ancient Roman Agora. (Instagram: @MrPeterandMrStavros)

Dining with Kalliopi Kohas

Restaurant whisperer.

We start at Kora bakery in Kolonaki (the Upper East Side of Athens) for croissants and coffee to go, or take a seat at Me Kolonaki . Souvlaki lunch at one of the two Kostas ; the one in Plateia Eirinis for red pepper sauce, the one in Syntagma for traditional yogurt sauce. Both are packed. Ergon House , the Greek Eataly, is great if you want to sit, or, for outside, Cher­chez la Femme . A touristy aperitivo at the Elec­tra Metropolis Hotel , for the most spectacular Acropolis views. For dinner with that view try Michelin-starred the Zillers . Lost Athens , Fita , and Linou Soumpasis are the most delicious of the new age Greek tavernas. Have tarama at all of them. Long day at the Acropolis? Have a meal at Cookoovaya afterward. For dinner with a DJ and a bar scene, Balthazar , Drakoulis Dry & Raw , and Zurbaran .

An Athens surprise: Inside the Varvakios Market, a sushi/seafood restaurant called Hasapika , where early dinner turns into a party on the weekends. In search of a seaside escape? About 20 minutes from the center is Papaioannou in Kavouri, a gorgeous seaside restaurant—eat raw here. Akti in Vouliagmeni is also a seaside stunner; there is uni pasta. And for more fun than just dinner, Krabo is a beach bar restaurant that’s great at lunch and gets lively at night; the Island Club Ath­ens Riviera gets even livelier. (Instagram: @FoodieMuse)

Art with Tina Daskalantonaki

Writer and independent curator.

The ancients take center stage in this city, and you should absolutely tour the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum , the National Archaeo­l ogical Museum (look for Agamemnon and the terra-cotta figurines), and the Museum of Cycladic Art . This summer an exhibit called “Homecoming” displays 15 pieces from antiquity presented together for the first time, and there’s an excellent gift shop and a chic café.

It would be a shame not to see a concert at the theater of the Herodion , or to take a two hour ride to Epidaurus to see a Greek tragedy in its birthplace (Frank Castorf’s Medea premieres there this summer).

Athens has also become a spot for contemporary art, with galleries like Breeder and new design spaces like Mare Studio , which will exhibit chairs from Greek artists beginning this May, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art (known as EMST ). For something in between ancient and modern, the Canellopoulos Museum showcases the family’s own collection of Greek art, with works dating from 5000 BC to the 19th century. Slim Aarons fans: That rooftop pool shot with the view of the Acropolis was taken at the family’s Syntagma Square home. And because food is culture, I recommend Pharaoh for amazing Cretan food. Try the horta with unsalted mizithra from my hometown. (Instagram: @diachronique .)

If you're a fan of Slim Aarons or have just read Miguel Flores-Vianna's wonderful Haute Bohemians: Greece , you'll recognize the mosaic floor of the royal folly known as the Queen's Tower on the Pyrgos Vasilissis estate. You can see it for yourself, visit the horses in its stables, and taste the wine produced here. Just book in advance.

Editor-in-Chief Stellene Volandes is a jewelry expert, and the author of Jeweler: Masters and Mavericks of Modern Design (Rizzoli).

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13 Things To Do In Athens: Complete Guide To Greece's Ancient City

F or a deep exploration of Greek history and culture, a visit to the historic city of Athens is in order. One of the oldest cities in the world, Greece's capital city dates back to around 3000 BC when its first settlement was established on the legendary rock of the Acropolis.

Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, Athens is undoubtedly the historical hub of Greece. Widely considered the birthplace of democracy for its voting and election system, ancient Athenians progressed in far more than just politics. The city’s intellectual and artistic prowess gave rise to phenomenal art, literature, and classical architecture, as well as many influential philosophers like Plato and Socrates. There are so many things to do here in Athens, Greece.

Today, the bustling European city is a tourist haven. Athens offers myriad fun things to do , from exploring its famous archeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

UPDATE: 2023/06/09 16:23 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do In Athens, Greece!

This post has been refreshed with new spots to see in Athens, as well as tips for a successful Greek vacation. Whether someone wants to experience an ancient monument, climb a mountain, or simply stroll through the city's garden, Athens offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Have fun, and bring some sunscreen!

Things To Do

From its historical ruins to its incredible museums, Athens is brimming with must-see adventures. Here are some of the top attractions for new visitors .

Discover The Ancient Parthenon

One of the first monuments to witness while in Athens is the Parthenon. Here, tourists can explore a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC.

Of course, coming to the Parthenon is quintessential Greece, as its rich history and stunning structure bring people from around the globe.

There are also decorative sculptures here, often considered some of the high points of classical Greek art. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, water, and even a snack: it gets hot, and the hike up to Parthenon can be gruesome.

• The Parthenon in Athens is considered one of the top destinations.
• Bring comfortable footwear, water, and snacks, and be respectful of the ancient structure.

Experience Nature At Athens National Garden

One of the most beautiful things to do in Athens, Greece, is walk through the National Garden. Here, visitors to the city can 7,000 trees, 40,000 bushes, and other plants, making up 519 species and varieties.

The Athens National Garden is a public park of 15.5 hectares in the center of the Greek capital, located directly behind the Greek Parliament.

• Athens National Garden is free to visitors.

Climb Mount Lycabettus

For people wanting some exercise while in Athens, heading to Mount Lycabettus might be worth it. Here, visitors to the ancient city can experience the highest point in Central Athens, at a staggering 277 meters above the sea.

Mount Lycabettus has a rich history, according to myths : the mountain was formed when the goddess Athena was carrying a huge stone from the Pallene peninsula to the spot of the Acropolis, but she dropped it when the raven told her bad news.

• At 277 meters (909 feet), it's a bit less than twice as high as the Acropolis.

That was the birth of Mount Lycabettus and is why it is located smack-dab in the middle of town. It's also double the height of the Acropolis, so the elevation is steep, and the photo-ops are incredible.

Related: Mykonos In 3 Days: How To Plan A Weekend In Greece's Hottest Summer Spot

Tour The Acropolis

One of the most iconic Greek ruins is that of the ancient city of the Acropolis. Originally a Mycenaean palace, the citadel features many striking sites, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Situated on the slopes of the Acropolis are two ancient theaters: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theater of Dionysus. Head northwest of the Acropolis to find the Areopagus, or the Rock of Ares, which served as the meeting place for the early aristocratic council. Be sure not to miss a thing by booking a guided tour of the famed ruins.

• Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm (April to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to March)
• Cost: From €49 (about $53 USD) for a guided tour with skip-the-line-entry; check the website for complete tour options and availability

Stroll Through Plaka

For less touristy things to do in Athens , stroll the charming streets of Plaka. Nestled under the Acropolis, it's one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and is a shining example of Athens' neoclassical architecture.

• This is a less "touristy" thing to do in Athens. Many people prefer lying low when in the city, as it allows for a more true Grecian vacation.

Walk the main streets of Kydathineon and Adrianou to explore the various souvenir, antique, and jewelry shops. Tour the colorful buildings and ancient churches, and stop at a local café for a relaxing afternoon spent immersed in Greek culture.

See The Ancient Agora Of Athens

Located to the northwest of the Acropolis, the ancient archeological site was the city's social and political hub. Founded in 1957, the Ancient Agora Museum, which features a variety of ceramics, jewelry, and other items found during excavations, and the Temple of Hephaestus are must-see tourist attractions.

• Address: Adrianoy 24, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm
• Cost: €10 (just under $11 USD) general admission

Visit The Panathenaic Stadium

In 1896, this cultural masterpiece was home to the first modern Olympic Games . The only marble stadium in the world, visitors have the opportunity to tour the grounds and even run on the playing field.

• Address: Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou, Athina 116 35, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm (March to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to February)

Tour The National Archaeological Museum

Explore the museum's grand collection of Greek Antiquity artifacts, from the gold Mask of Agamemnon to the incredible marble statue of Poseidon​​​​​.

• Address: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
• Hours: Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays to Mondays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (November 1 to March 31); Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays from 8 am to 8 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €12 (April 1 to October 31) €6 (November 1 to March 31)

Explore The Benaki Museum

Tourists can also take a deep dive through Greek history with a stop at this museum, which houses more than 100,000 ancient artifacts. The Benaki Museum is one of seven cultural venues that can be found throughout the city.

Other museums include the new Benaki Museum, or Pireos 138, the Museum of Islamic Art, the Ghika Gallery, and the Toy Museum.

• Address: Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm; Thursday from 10 am to midnight; Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission

Tour The Museum Of Cycladic Art

Athens has more to offer visitors than just the Acropolis . After a day spend exploring the iconic ruins, behold the mesmerizing collection of Cycladic art artifacts, from marble figurines and vases to ancient weapons.

• Address: Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm; Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission (pricing for temporary exhibitions is €6 for general admission)

Journey To The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

This ancient Greek temple stands an impressive 68 feet tall. Located southeast of the Acropolis, visitors can marvel at the iconic architecture, which was, remarkably, twice the size of the Parthenon.

• Address: Athens 105 57, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 3 pm

See The Philopappos Monument

Another must-see historical landmark is the Greek mausoleum of the Philopappos Monument. Situated atop the Mouseion Hill to the southwest of the Acropolis, the monument was built to pay homage to Athens' benefactor Julius Antiochus Philopappos.

• Address: Athens 117 41, Greece
• Hours: Open 24 hours

Visit The Acropolis Museum

Located on the south side of the Acropolis, this museum houses some of the most important findings from the famed historical site, from Parthenon sculptures to the sacred Caryatids, which held up the roof of the Erechtheion's southern porch.

• Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece
• Hours: Monday from 9 am to 5 pm; Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm; Friday from 9 am to 10 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €15 general admission during the summer; €10 general admission during the winter

The museum is open during the winter months (November 1 to March 31) Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm, Friday from 9 am to 10 pm, and weekends from 9 am to 8 pm.

Best Time To See Athens

There are many reasons to visit Greece in the spring . Namely, visitors can beat the peak season rush since the vast majority of tourist flock to the country during the summer months.

Athens is no different, and globetrotters opting to visit during the spring and the winter may also be able to take advantage of cheaper prices for accommodations.

Best Ways To Get Around Athens

Tourists looking to explore the historic city can opt to walk. The vast majority of points of interest can be traversed in less than 30 minutes on foot. There are also a variety of hop-on, hop-off buses that can take tourists from point A to point B.

Another reliable mode of transportation is Athens' subway, tram, and trolley system , which serves the city and its suburbs.

Where To Eat In Athens, Greece

Athens has plenty of eateries to offer hungry travelers.

Picky Coffee & Brunch

• Address: Χριστοκοπίδου 14 &, Ναυάρχου Αποστόλη, Athina 105 54, Greece
• Cuisine: Specialty coffee and brunch eatery with many breakfast options

Happy Blender

• Address: Ifestou 39, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Healthy, fresh smoothies and bowls
• Address: Άγγελου, Geronta 9, Athina 105 58, Greece
• Cuisine: Mediterranean café and bistro

Atitamos (Ατίταμος)

• Address: Kapodistriou 2, Athina 106 83, Greece
• Cuisine: Traditional Greek dishes
• Address: Adrianoy 9, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Greek restaurant featuring an art gallery and a rooftop bar

Aleria Restaurant

• Address: Meg. Alexandrou 57, Athina 104 35, Greece
• Cuisine: Contemporary Mediterranean fare

The Clumsies

• Address: Praxitelous 30, Athina 105 61, Greece

42 Barstronomy Athens

• Address: Kolokotroni 3, Athina 105 62, Greece

Related: Discover The Best Of Greece: 10 Top-Rated Day Trips From Athens

Where To Stay In Athens, Greece

Find the perfect spot to stay, no matter the budget.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Pella Inn Hostel

• Address: 104 Ermou & 1 Karaiskaki, Athens 105 51
• Amenities: Bar/lounge and laundry facilities

Victory Inn

• Address: Trias 20, Athens
• Amenities: Bar/lounge, room service, and coffee shop

Mid-Tier Hotels

Athens Marriott Hotel

• Address: Syngrou Avenue 385, Athens 175 64
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and free parking

Grand Hyatt Athens

• Address: 115, Syngrou Avenue, Athens 117 45
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, fitness center, and bar/lounge

Upscale Hotels

King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 3 Vasileos Georgiou A' Street, Athens
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, parking, restaurant, room service, and laundry service

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A' Str., Athens 105 64
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and valet parking

Related: Visiting Athens? Here's Where To Stay In This Ancient City

Tips For Visiting Athens

There are a few things tourists need to know in order to curate the most enjoyable Athens adventure. For starters, the roads can be a tad bit hectic, so be extremely cautious when walking along or crossing busy streets.

Greek meal times are generally later than in other parts of Europe. For tourists looking for a lively restaurant ambiance, locals typically eat lunch around 2 pm, and the main meal of the day, dinner, is enjoyed at around 9 pm or later.

Last but not least, follow proper bathroom etiquette and don't flush toilet paper, which can clog the older sewage systems.

Related: Athens: How A Goddess Victory Created Greece's Popular City

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Athens, Greece

Due to the sheer size of the city and all the amazing historical sites to see, visitors should plan to spend a minimum of three days in the Greek capital. However, for the perfect 24-hour romp around Athens, there are a handful of postcard-worthy attractions that are must-sees.

But first: breakfast. Visitors can eat like the locals, opting for a traditional Greek breakfast of bread, fresh fruit, and yogurt at a nearby eatery. Afterward, exploring the great Acropolis is the first "to-do" on the itinerary, so opt for a guided tour of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum.

Spend the day seeing the iconic ruins and surrounding attractions, such as the Erechtheion, the Propylaia, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Related: Athens To Santorini: 10 Things To See Along The Way

For lunch, grab a delicious bite to eat at the Pantheon Restaurant. Then, check out the Temple of Hephaestus and the Ancient Agora of Athens nearby. A stroll through the Plaka neighborhood is in order before touring the Benaki Museum and the National Garden Botanical Museum (a two-minute walk apart).

For dinner, snag a table at Kuzina for a traditional Greek meal before heading to the rooftop bar to grab a drink and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Q: What is worth visiting in Athens?

Athens offers many fun things to do , from exploring its famous archaeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

Q: What is Athens, Greece known for?

Widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, Athens is probably most known for its iconic Acropolis .

Q: How many days do you need in Athens?

Due to all the amazing historical sites and top attractions to see for new visitors , tourists should plan to spend a minimum of three days in Athens.

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I spent 4 days in Athens, Greece. Here are 10 things that were worth it and 5 I'd skip next time.

• I recently spent four days in Athens, Greece, while traveling around Europe . 
• Stumbling upon the National Garden was a great treat, and I loved learning about the Acropolis. 
• On the other hand, I'm not sure the Roman Agora or Hadrian's Library are worth a visit . 

In October, I traveled to Athens, Greece , for the first time since I was 18 months old. 

I spent four days exploring some of the city's amazing landmarks and sites. But even though I didn't pay for all of the attractions — because some are free for EU citizens 25 and under — there are a few I wouldn't spend time on again. 

The Greek city just made Delta Air Line's list of most-searched summer destinations for 2024, so if you're currently planning a trip, here's everything that was worth the time and money and the few things I'd skip on my next trip.

I was glad I happened upon Athens National Garden.

I happened upon the National Garden kind of by accident when I was looking for some green space to run in. It's completely free and perfect for a walk, jog, or run.

The space is very peaceful and also has ponds with lots of turtles. I ended up going back a few days later to sit and read in the shade.

The Acropolis is definitely worth it, especially in the morning.

The Acropolis, which I'd consider the main tourist attraction in Athens, is a must-visit.

The citadel contains several ancient buildings, most notably the Parthenon. I was told to start waiting in line around 7:30 a.m. (it opens at 8), and it was well worth the time and effort.

It got busy — and hot — really quickly. I couldn't imagine going any later, and I ended up being able to take a nap afterward anyway. 

I wasn't too sure about Mount Lycabettus, but the views won me over.

I planned to go to Mount Lycabettus (the highest point in Athens) for sunset one night. I thought I'd allotted enough time, but everyone seemed to have the same idea since there was a huge line when I arrived.

Truthfully, I was a bit disappointed by the tram ride, and when I got to the top, I was overwhelmed by how many people there were. But the view made it worth it.

I ended up staying for dinner and had a delicious meal of Greek salad , moussaka, and white wine for about $16.

I'm so glad I paid to run along the track at Panathenaic Stadium.

The stadium is cool on its own — it dates back to 600 BC and is the only marble stadium in the world. But I went early in the morning, during the designated running hours of 7:30 to 9 a.m., and got to run around the track.

It's only about $10 to enter (I paid the student price of $5), and it was one of my favorite things I did on the trip.

Kerameikos Archaeological Site is one of the coolest cemeteries I've ever seen.

I had pretty low expectations going in having seen my fair share of cemeteries , but I was pleasantly surprised by this one.

The tombstones were pillar-shaped, and there were great views of the Parthenon.

If you're doing the Acropolis, make sure to swing through Plaka afterward.

It's worth walking around the neighborhood surrounding the Acropolis.

There are great taverns with traditional Greek food and places to buy all the souvenirs your heart desires. I really enjoyed wandering around and exploring some of the picturesque side streets.

Even after seeing the real deal, I got a lot out of the Acropolis Museum.

I'm not usually a big museum person, but the Acropolis Museum is definitely worth a visit.

I went after I'd already seen the landmark, and it gave me good context. It houses many artifacts that were excavated from the site, and beneath the museum is an in-progress excavation of ancient Athens.

Areopagus Hill provided stunning views for free.

Behind the Acropolis is a prominent rock outcropping. It can be a slippery and steep walk up, but the views of the Acropolis and the surrounding area are breathtaking.

Entrance to the hill and its surrounding park is also completely free.

I could feel the history at the Ancient Agora of Athens.

The Athenian Agora is one of the best-known examples of a traditional Greek meeting place. It had great views of the Acropolis and was beautifully adorned with trees and other ruins.

I was especially impressed by how well the Temple of Hephaestus was preserved. There's also a museum, and the second floor has a nice balcony where you can look out over the agora

I'm glad I swung by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Many of the attractions in Athens date back centuries, but the tomb is much more contemporary.

Dedicated to Greek soldiers killed in war, the tomb itself is visually quite simple. But there are guards that stand in traditional garb, which reminded me of Buckingham Palace .

It's also pretty central — right next to the National Garden — so I didn't have to go out of the way to see it.

Next time, I'd skip Monastiraki Flea Market and shop in Plaka instead.

I was excited to go to a flea market but was quite disappointed to find that this one didn't sell anything much different than the rows of stores in Plaka.

I will say that the square near the market had good views of the Parthenon, but I was able to see similar angles from other places in the city. 

After seeing the Athenian Agora, I'd skip the Roman Agora on future trips.

In contrast to the Athenian Agora, the Roman version wasn't much to write home about.

The gate at the front is kind of cool, but I think could just look from the outside instead of wasting time going in. 

Hadrian's Library didn't wow me.

I didn't find the "library" all that special.

The ruin isn't really a building, just pillars. And like the Roman Agora, you could easily just peek through the gates to get a good sense of the place.

I wanted to love the Temple of Zeus, but I was a little underwhelmed.

I was excited to see a temple devoted to the King of the Gods, but it was kind of disappointing.

To be fair, the temple was under construction when I went. But I felt that there wasn't a ton to look at regardless.

The Lyceum of Aristotle isn't all that exciting and it's far from everything else.

The original lyceum was destroyed. All that's left of it is a few ruins that were discovered about 30 years ago.

It's relatively new since it wasn't opened to the public until 2009, but I felt like it wasn't worth the walk since it was far from most of the other landmarks .

This story was originally published on November 12, 2023, and most recently updated on May 1, 2024. 

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