Athens needs to be probably the most iconic locations I’ve visited! It’s steeped in historic historical past, full of scrumptious meals choices, and limitless issues to see and do. I’m a historical past buffs, so seeing the imposing Acropolis for the primary time was an unimaginable feeling!
Whether or not you’re into historic historical past or not, Athens is a enjoyable metropolis to go to. With its gritty vibe, and stark distinction between trendy and historic, Athens is a singular European capital.
This listing will make it easier to determine what to do in Athens throughout your time right here – regardless of how lengthy your go to is. I’ll share a mixture of historical past, meals, purchasing, nightlife & distinctive issues to do in Athens. I like this metropolis, that is positively top-of-the-line locations to go to in Greece.
I’ve been to Athens quite a few occasions, and can in all probability be visiting once more this yr! When you’re flying in, Athens will most certainly be your first cease in Greece. Spend a few days having fun with the town earlier than heading to one of many dreamy Greek Islands.
Right here’s my listing of the most effective issues to do in Athens, Greece.
1. Climb to the Acropolis
The primary time I noticed the Acropolis, my jaw dropped. Regardless of what number of historic websites you’ve seen, seeing the Acropolis towering over the town is fairly particular!
To be clear, the Acropolis is your complete metropolis on the hill – not one specific break. It’s devoted to the goddess Athena, and a go to to the Fifth-century Acropolis is the most well-liked factor to do in Athens – by far.
In fact, because of this everybody desires to go there, together with guests from cruise ships. My recommendation is to get there early. The archaeological website itself opens at 8:00am and the cruise ship passengers arrive round 10 am.
Most individuals go to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon however there are a number of different issues to see on the hill, together with the Erechtheion, the Arrhephorion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
From the Acropolis, you may see a lot of Athens and might see all the best way to the ocean. The doorway charge is €30.
To study all of essential websites and the unimaginable historical past, I counsel becoming a member of a strolling tour. The tour can even take you to the museum (beneath).
There are just a few various kinds of excursions you may take, however click on right here to be taught extra a couple of highly-rated, skip-the-line tour. Plus, you may reserve now and pay later, which is nice as solely a specific amount of individuals are allowed to go to the Acropolis every day. Cancellation is out there as much as 24 hours earlier than the tour. That is nice in case you’re not totally certain of your plans but.
2. Go to the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is likely one of the most lovely museums I’ve ever been to. I beloved my expertise right here! It’s full of pure mild, which highlights the artifacts properly.
Right here you will get an in depth have a look at the Parthenon frieze replicas on show, and far more historic Greek artwork. The cafe balcony additionally presents nice views of historic ruins in Athens. You possibly can be taught extra in regards to the Acropolis on my weblog.
Both earlier than or after you go to the Acropolis, you should go to the Acropolis Museum – verify 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 charge is €20. BUT, in case you go to on one in all nowadays, it’s free: March sixth (Melina Mercouri Day), March twenty fifth (Nationwide vacation), Could 18th (Worldwide Day of Museums), October twenty eighth (Nationwide vacation).
Line-ups right here may be large, 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 isn’t a library within the sense we all know it at the moment, it was a spot of research, not a spot the place books had been lent.
In Greek Antiquity, Hadrian’s Library was constructed round 132 AD for housing paperwork and studying rooms. There’s not a lot left however you may clearly see the structure of the library and there may be wonderful signage.
The doorway charge 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 embellished inside and out of doors the restaurant. After I was there it was embellished for Halloween.
Little KooK is principally a dessert cafe, however the high attraction is the decorations. This probably the most whimsical locations I’ve been, and might be probably the most Instagrammable place in Athens moreover the Acropolis! Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
💡 Professional Tip: When you’re in Athens for some time, you may choose up a MegaPass Athens Metropolis Go. With it, you may skip the fluff and head straight to the highlights – the Acropolis, Parthenon, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, audio guides, and extra. It’s all included, no additional 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 unimaginable 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 unimaginable items.
Whereas yow will discover a lot of it by yourself within the Plaka space, it’s finest to go together with an area who can present you round and clarify the story behind the artwork. This tour reveals you round 5 cool neighborhoods which might be lesser identified to vacationers.
Becoming a member of a avenue artwork tour is one of the best ways to get off the crushed path, and be taught extra in regards to the metropolis. That is my choose for one of many extra distinctive issues to do in Athens.
6. Go Bar Hopping
For such a enjoyable metropolis, it’s no shock that top-of-the-line issues to do in Athens at night time is to go bar hopping. Take a look at Psiri (Psyrri) for the general finest nightlife, Kolonaki for extra upscale nights out, and Gazi for golf equipment/partying.
You are able to do like I did and wander round, stopping in at locations that appeared busy, or if you wish to meet folks and be taught a bit in regards to the metropolis, you may be a part of a meals and booze tour.
With this enjoyable, native expertise, you’ll discover 3 completely different areas of Athens, and go to 3 completely different bars there, whereas having fun with drinks, meals, and nice dialog with new associates.
A bar hopping tour is likely one of the finest methods to get pleasure from Athens nightlife, particularly in case you’re on a fast journey.
All the tables are reserved forward of time, so that you received’t have to attend in line in any respect. When you’re in search of cool issues to do in Athens at night time, this can be a good choice. Discover out extra right here.
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7. Eat The Finest Yogurtlu and Souvlaki
O Thanasis is likely one of the hottest locations to eat in Plaka. It’s so in style 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 massive sufficient to separate with somebody and it’ll set you again round €15. The folks at O Thanasis are pleasant and never pushy.
I believe the souvlaki can be top-of-the-line on the town. When you don’t make it right here, you can even get some scrumptious souvlaki at lots of a flea markets and markets on the town.
8. Smash Issues at Limba Rage Room
Feeling just a little wired? Have to get some rage out? Limba Rage Room is the place to just do that.
You buy a package deal (which may embrace plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and also you smash them! It’s an amazing stress reliever and probably the most distinctive issues to do in Athens.
There are a number of packages for each finances. They vary from €10 to €100. Don’t fear, they offer 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 like getting my freddo repair when in Greece! Sampling a freddo cappuccino is likely one of the must-do issues in Athens. This is only one of three basic Greek coffees, there may be additionally a frappe and a freddo espresso.
The frappe isn’t like a Starbucks frappe however as a substitute is made with immediate espresso, water, and sugar (in case you select).
The freddo cappuccino is espresso topped with frothy milk (which is my favorite).
The freddo espresso is simply swirled espresso over ice. All of those coffees pack a severe caffeine punch however since they’re all served chilly, it’s nice on a 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 occasions all through the day, however as legend would have it, your fortune may be advised by studying the dregs of espresso left on the backside of your cup.
The following time you’ve completed consuming your espresso in Athens, ensure that to ask somebody to point out you how one can learn your fortune.
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10. Store in The Plaka
The Plaka is a neighborhood positioned beneath the Acropolis with charming streets and retailers. Wandering round right here is an effective way to spend just a few hours. A lot of this space has been closed off to visitors, though supply vehicles nonetheless are allowed via and a few streets are open.
The chain shops and extra upscale retailers are on Ermou Road – the place yow will discover retailers like Sephora and H&M.
Then there are vacationer retailers, a flea market, and lower-end retailers, that are additional down previous Monastiraki Sq.. Right here yow will discover souvenirs you may wish to convey residence on your family and friends. Plus, this can be a nice space for people-watching.
12. Watch the Altering of The Guard
When you’re in Athens on a Sunday, you received’t wish to miss the ceremonial Altering of the Guard. The army guards change each hour, however on Sundays at 11:00am, they placed on an elaborate present with conventional uniforms.
The Altering of the Guard takes place at Syntagma Sq. on the Parliament Constructing. The perfect place to view it from is the Presidential Mansion. This is likely one of the finest free issues to do in Athens.
I went on a Sunday and it was positively the most effective time to see it. They could look just a little uncommon, however belief me, they’re extremely skilled troopers referred to as the Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Go to Monastiraki Sq.
When you sit in Monastiraki Sq. lengthy sufficient, I swear you will note everybody in Athens stroll by. That is the place to observe vacationers and locals work together.
It is usually a historic website with a Ninth-century church, a Nineteenth-century mosque, and within the subway station are antiques discovered throughout the constructing of the primary metro station.
This is likely one of the most bustling locations in Athens and chilling out right here is likely one of the finest issues to do. When you’re right here, take a look at the Monastiraki flea market.
14. Get Customized Made Greek Sandals
While you’re purchasing within the Plaka, you’ll want to 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 era to era.
You will get a basic pair in primary 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 may have a donut for dessert!
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16. Watch the Sundown at Lycabettus Hill
Watching the sundown from Lycabettus Hill is likely one of the finest issues to do in Athens. Not solely is the sundown gorgeous, however you get wonderful views of Athens from right here. You can too see the Acropolis all lit up for the night.
Earlier than you head out to benefit from the Athens nightlife, think about climbing Lycabettus for a pleasant sundown and perhaps even a picnic.
There’s a funicular to take you up and down in case you don’t wish to climb the hill. The fee 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. When you love Greek meals like I do (and actually, who doesn’t?!), take a look at this enjoyable, informative, and engaging tour! It’s one of many highest-rated excursions in Athens.
Meet up together with your information and uncover some unimaginable avenue meals distributors and native markets, all whereas strolling off the meals and studying about Athens and Greece alongside the best way.
You’ll eat your manner via bakeries, cheese and meat retailers, fish market, espresso retailers, 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! When you’re in search of non-touristy issues to do in Athens, this can be a nice choice – it’s additionally top-of-the-line worth experiences within the metropolis. Discover out extra and reserve your spot right here.
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18. Eat Gyros
You possibly can’t come to Athens and never have a basic gyro. They’re out there virtually in every single place and you’ll have enjoyable looking for the most effective one. A seek for your favourite gyro is likely one of the finest issues to do in Athens for foodies.
I’ve eaten my justifiable share of gyro, which consists of hen or lamb, french fries, onions, and tomatoes all wrapped up in gentle pita bread. Generally you may organize them open-faced on a plate.
They’re fairly huge, so in case you’ve executed tons of strolling that is the meal for you. Take a look at Kostas or Scrumptious Souvlaki for tasty gyros.
19. Stroll By means of 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.
After I was on the Roman Agora, it was very empty making a pleasant change from the crowds of the Acropolis. It’s a pleasant place to discover.
Nevertheless, there may be not a lot signage on the Historical Agora so you might have to search for the historical past whenever you get there. The doorway charge has elevated over time and is now €20. Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
20. Discover the Athens Central Market
The Central Market (Varvakios Agora) is a basic out of doors market with shouting distributors and all of the smells that come together with it.
I found it once I stayed in a resort proper available in the market. The fruits in Greece look and scent wonderful so even in case you don’t purchase something it’s nonetheless an amazing place to go to.
The opposite factor to notice is that a lot of the distributors don’t communicate English, however you may level to gadgets that you simply’re thinking about and use signal language (or a translation app).
There’s additionally meat and fish in case you’re in self-catering lodging. I beloved this market as a result of it felt like such an authentically Greek expertise. Click on right here for a enjoyable market tour right here which incorporates tastings and drinks.
Both manner, a go to to the bustling market is likely one of the belongings you shouldn’t miss in Athens. Discover it on the map, right here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
When you’re an animal particular person, there are just a few volunteer choices so that you can assist out with deserted and stray animals. Take a look at ZEIL, SGS or SCARS the place you may help with strolling and caring for canines and cats.
This is probably not one of many extra touristy issues to do in Athens, however if in case you have some additional time, or if you need to assist out, it’s positively 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 trendy buildings! Yow will discover it right here on the map.
23. Be a part of a Cooking Class with Rooftop Dinner
It’s at all times enjoyable to affix cooking courses around the globe. You get to talk with the chef in regards to the nation and delicacies, and meet different travellers.
Discover ways to make some conventional Greek meals throughout this enjoyable cooking class. You’ll make (and eat), a starter, most important dish, salad, dessert, and native dips. Plus, wine is included.
Chat with the chef and your new associates 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 Heart
The Metropolis Heart of Athens is full of life, bustling, and a bit tough across the edges, but it surely’s a unbelievable place to get misplaced amongst the traditional websites.
By foot, you may 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 a few of the lesser-known attention-grabbing streets within the metropolis heart.
25. Go to The Panathenaic Stadium
You in all probability 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 in-built 330 BC and later expanded into a totally marble enviornment that hosted the primary trendy Olympics in 1896 and once more in 2004.
Attempt to time your go to for the Athens Marathon, which follows he legendary 42 km route of Pheidippides. It will be unimaginable to observe runners cross the end line in such a historic setting. Click on right here for the dates of the Marathon.
Day Journeys from Athens
When you have extra time within the metropolis, take a look at these enjoyable day journeys.
1. Hydra Island
You possibly can nonetheless go to a Greek island whereas in your journey to Athens!
Hydra is a small island that permits no vehicles. A lot of the issues to do are positioned proper within the port together with eating places and purchasing. There’s even a swimming spot a five-minute stroll away.
Hydra is about an hour’s ferry trip away in case you take the quick ferry. The fee 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.
Another choice is to be a part of a day tour that takes you to Hydra and features a information and 4 hours of free time on the island. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Crusing Journey
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek Islands. You possibly can be a part of a crusing journey that lasts all day, or take a half-day tour. You possibly can even sail to a few of the islands.
Most of those sails are on catamarans making it simpler for the non-sailor to regulate their sea legs. This is likely one of the finest methods to chill out in Greece. Click on right here for a top-rated crusing journey (on an precise sailboat) that takes you to Agistri, Moni & Aegina.
Or, in case you’d desire 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 gorgeous 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 possibly can generally see a number of islands on a transparent day from the temple.
There’s a bus from Athens from the Mavromateon Terminal and you can even get it from Syntagma Sq.. Search for the bus going to Sounio. The bus fare one-way is €6.90.
When you’d somewhat 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 here are solutions to some generally requested questions on visiting the town.
What Ought to I Keep away from in Athens?
In the case of areas of Athens, Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi, and Kolokotroni Squares have excessive crime charges and needs to be averted at night time, if not altogether. Ensure to regulate your purse and pockets when visiting Athens in addition to there are pickpockets round.
Becoming a member of a strolling tour with an area whenever you first arrive in Athens is an effective way to get a rundown of the town and the do’s and don’ts.
Are you able to Do Athens in 3 Days?
Sure! You possibly can positively go to Athens in a day, on two day journeys, a weekend, or in 3 days. You’ll have the ability to cowl the entire most important highlights in simply a few days, and on the third day, you may be a part of a enjoyable expertise (cooking class, wine tasting), or take a day journey by ferry or bus.
The place to Keep in Athens
You’ll wish to keep central when visiting Athens, and goal to be inside strolling distance of the Acropolis, Plaka and Syntagma Sq.. Whether or not you select a resort or residence is as much as you – some folks desire resorts with a easy room, whereas others desire flats with a dwelling space and a kitchen.
This residence has wonderful opinions and views of the Acropolis, whereas this residence is in Plaka and in addition has unimaginable views plus numerous pure mild. For resorts, the Electra Metropolis is a very talked-about choice and it consists of breakfast, a rooftop bar, and wonderful views.
What’s one of the best 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 primary areas, you may catch a bus or seize a rideshare.
How a lot does it value to enter the websites in Athens?
Entrance charges in Athens typically value between €15-€20 for the most well-liked websites.
What’s the finest resort with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Electra Lodge has the nicest rooftop pool in all of Athens with an amazing bar, gorgeous views, and loads of areas to sit down and chill out.
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 Conflict Museum. Or take a look at one of many Byzantine church buildings, eat at a few of the nice eating places with an incredible view, or go to throughout the Summer season months when rain is much less probably.
Now You Know What To Do in Athens
As you may see there are such a lot of issues to do in Athens. You possibly can 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 may uncover! I at all times love spending time in Athens, and I’m certain you’ll as properly.
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