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