Athens needs to be some of the iconic locations I’ve visited! It’s steeped in historical historical past, full of scrumptious meals choices, and infinite 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 historical historical past or not, Athens is a enjoyable metropolis to go to. With its gritty vibe, and stark distinction between trendy and historical, Athens is a novel European capital.
This checklist will assist you 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, procuring, nightlife & distinctive issues to do in Athens. I really like this metropolis, that is positively probably the greatest locations to go to in Greece.
I’ve been to Athens quite a few instances, and can in all probability be visiting once more this yr! Should you’re flying in, Athens will most certainly be your first cease in Greece. Spend a few days having fun with town earlier than heading to one of many dreamy Greek Islands.
Right here’s my checklist of one of the best issues to do in Athens, Greece.
1. Climb to the Acropolis
The primary time I noticed the Acropolis, my jaw dropped. Irrespective of what number of historical websites you’ve seen, seeing the Acropolis towering over town is fairly particular!
To be clear, the Acropolis is the whole 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.
After all, 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’ll be able to see a lot of Athens and might see all the best way to the ocean. The doorway price is €30.
To find out about all of vital websites and the unbelievable historical past, I counsel becoming a member of a strolling tour. The tour may even take you to the museum (beneath).
There are a couple of various kinds of excursions you’ll be able to take, however click on right here to be taught 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 out there as much as 24 hours earlier than the tour. That is nice should you’re not absolutely positive of your plans but.
2. Go to the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is among 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 properly.
Right here you may get a detailed take a look at the Parthenon frieze replicas on show, and way more historical Greek artwork. The cafe balcony additionally gives nice views of historical ruins in Athens. You’ll be able to be taught extra concerning the Acropolis on my weblog.
Both earlier than or after you go to the Acropolis, you need to 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 price is €20. BUT, should you go to on one in all today, it’s free: March sixth (Melina Mercouri Day), March twenty fifth (Nationwide vacation), Could 18th (Worldwide Day of Museums), October twenty eighth (Nationwide vacation).
Line-ups right here will be enormous, to skip the road, buy your ticket forward of time right here. Alternatively, you should buy an all-inclusive ticket for each the museum and the Acropolis right here.
3. See Hadrian’s Library
This library will not be a library within the sense we all know it as we speak, 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 may be wonderful signage.
The doorway price is €4 ($4.70). Hadrian’s Library is a small museum situated within the Monastiraki neighborhood not removed from the Acropolis and the Monastiraki flea market, and is a part of many Greek Mythology Excursions.
4. See the Decorations at Little KooK
I found Little KooK on my most up-to-date journey to Athens. Every vacation season it’s adorned inside and outdoors the restaurant. Once I was there it was adorned for Halloween.
Little KooK is principally a dessert cafe, however the prime attraction is the decorations. This some of the whimsical locations I’ve been, and might be essentially the most Instagrammable place in Athens apart from the Acropolis! Click on right here to seek out it on the map.
💡 Professional Tip: Should 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 total Athens expertise.
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5. Take a Avenue Artwork Tour
It’s true, Athens is a little bit of a gritty metropolis, however with that, comes some unbelievable road artwork. I loved wandering across the Plaka space and snapping pictures of the artwork. And sure, the road artwork in Athens ranges from common graffiti tags, to some unbelievable items.
Whereas yow will discover a lot of it by yourself within the Plaka space, it’s greatest to go along with a neighborhood who can present you round and clarify the story behind the artwork. This tour reveals you round 5 cool neighborhoods which can be lesser identified to vacationers.
Becoming a member of a road artwork tour is one of the best ways to get off the overwhelmed path, and be taught 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 probably the greatest issues to do in Athens at evening is to go bar hopping. Try 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 appeared busy, or if you wish to meet individuals and be taught a bit concerning the metropolis, you’ll be able to be 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 pals.
A bar hopping tour is among the greatest methods to take pleasure in Athens nightlife, particularly should you’re on a fast journey.
All the tables are reserved forward of time, so that you received’t have to attend in line in any respect. Should you’re searching for 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 Finest Yogurtlu and Souvlaki
O Thanasis is among the hottest locations to eat in Plaka. It’s so widespread that even Greeks eat right here. One of the best 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 believe the souvlaki can be probably the greatest on the town. Should you don’t make it right here, you may also get some scrumptious souvlaki at lots of a flea markets and markets on the town.
8. Smash Issues at Limba Rage Room
Feeling a little bit stressed? Must get some rage out? Limba Rage Room is the place to do exactly that.
You buy a package deal (which might embody plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and also you smash them! It’s an incredible stress reliever and some of the distinctive issues to do in Athens.
There are a selection of packages for each price range. They vary from €10 to €100. Don’t fear, they offer you protecting gear to put on. It’s situated simply down the road from Little KooK.
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9. Drink a Greek Espresso
I really like getting my freddo repair when in Greece! Sampling a freddo cappuccino is among the must-do issues in Athens. This is only one of three traditional Greek coffees, there may be additionally a frappe and a freddo espresso.
The frappe will not be like a Starbucks frappe however as an alternative is made with prompt espresso, water, and sugar (should 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 massive 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 will be informed by studying the dregs of espresso left on the backside of your cup.
The subsequent time you’ve completed consuming your espresso in Athens, make sure that to ask somebody to indicate you the way to learn your fortune.
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10. Store in The Plaka
The Plaka is a neighborhood situated beneath the Acropolis with charming streets and retailers. Wandering round right here is an effective way to spend a couple of 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 Avenue – 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 would possibly wish to convey dwelling in your family and friends. Plus, it is a nice space for people-watching.
12. Watch the Altering of The Guard
Should you’re in Athens on a Sunday, you received’t wish to miss the ceremonial Altering of the Guard. The army guards change each hour, however on Sundays at 11:00am, they placed on an elaborate present with conventional uniforms.
The Altering of the Guard takes place at Syntagma Sq. on the Parliament Constructing. One of the best place to view it from is the Presidential Mansion. This is among the greatest free issues to do in Athens.
I went on a Sunday and it was positively one of the best time to see it. They could look a little bit uncommon, however belief me, they’re extremely skilled troopers known as the Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Go to Monastiraki Sq.
Should you sit in Monastiraki Sq. lengthy sufficient, I swear you will note everybody in Athens stroll by. That is the place to look at vacationers and locals work together.
It’s also 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 among the most bustling locations in Athens and chilling out right here is among the greatest issues to do. Whilst you’re right here, take a look at the Monastiraki flea market.
14. Get Customized Made Greek Sandals
When you are procuring 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 era to era.
You will get a traditional pair in fundamental leather-based or get a flowery pair with decorations or metallics. The costs vary from €40 to €50.
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15. Eat Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greek donuts. It’s a small puff pastry that’s soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. I had one with sesame seeds as soon as too. They’re scrumptious.
One of the best place in Athens to get loukoumades is on the aptly named (and tremendous extremely rated) Lukumades. It’s not removed from O Thanasis so after consuming your kebab you’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 among the greatest issues to do in Athens. Not solely is the sundown gorgeous, however you get superb 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 should you don’t wish to climb the hill. The associated 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 part of a Strolling Meals Tour
Not all of the excursions in Athens are about historical past. Should you love Greek meals like I do (and 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 along with your information and uncover some unbelievable road 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 plenty of shops providing world-famous Greek yogurt, natural olive oil, honey and wine.
Included within the tour are many tasty Greek delicacies, so come hungry! Should you’re searching for non-touristy issues to do in Athens, it is a nice possibility – it’s additionally probably the greatest 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 nearly all over the place and you may have enjoyable looking for one of the best one. A seek for your favourite gyro is among the greatest issues to do in Athens for foodies.
I’ve eaten my justifiable share of gyro, which consists of rooster or lamb, french fries, onions, and tomatoes all wrapped up in mushy pita bread. Generally you’ll be able to get them organized open-faced on a plate.
They’re fairly massive, so should you’ve achieved tons of strolling that is the meal for you. Try Kostas or Scrumptious Souvlaki for tasty gyros.
19. Stroll By way of the Historical Agora
Historical Agora is a cemetery situated proper down the hill from the Acropolis. It was constructed as a market after Athens grew to become 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 may be not a lot signage on the Historical Agora so you’ll have to lookup the historical past while you get there. The doorway price has elevated through the years 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 out of doors market with shouting distributors and all of the smells that come together with it.
I found it after I stayed in a resort proper available in the market. The fruits in Greece look and odor superb so even should you 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 gadgets that you simply’re fascinated by and use signal language (or a translation app).
There’s additionally meat and fish should you’re in self-catering lodging. I liked this market as a result of it felt like such an authentically Greek expertise. Click on right here for a enjoyable market tour right here which incorporates tastings and drinks.
Both manner, a go to to the bustling market is among the stuff you shouldn’t miss in Athens. Discover it on the map, right here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
Should you’re an animal particular person, there are a couple of volunteer choices so that you can assist out with deserted and stray animals. Take a look at ZEIL, SGS or SCARS the place you’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 you probably have some further 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 among the oldest church buildings in Athens. The fascinating factor about this Greek Orthodox church is that it’s surrounded by trendy buildings! You’ll find it right here on the map.
23. Be part of a Cooking Class with Rooftop Dinner
It’s at all times enjoyable to hitch cooking lessons world wide. You get to speak with the chef concerning the nation and delicacies, and meet different travellers.
Discover ways to make some conventional Greek meals throughout this enjoyable cooking class. You’ll make (and eat), a starter, predominant dish, salad, dessert, and native dips. Plus, wine is included.
Chat with the chef and your new pals 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 energetic, bustling, and a bit tough across the edges, nevertheless it’s a improbable place to get misplaced amongst the traditional websites.
By foot, you’ll be able to simply discover the middle by beginning across the historical websites of the Acropolis and Plaka, then strolling to Monastiraki Sq. on the foot of the Acropolis, then persevering with to Psirri district and Ermou road earlier than ending at Kolonaki.
Additionally, don’t miss the Historical Greek Nationwide Gardens and strolling down a few of the lesser-known fascinating streets within the metropolis middle.
25. Go to The Panathenaic Stadium
You in all probability already know that Greece is dwelling to the unique Olympic Video games – so that you don’t wish to miss the unique stadium!
The Panathenaic Stadium was in-built 330 BC and later expanded into a completely marble area that hosted the primary trendy Olympics in 1896 and once more in 2004.
Attempt to time your go to for the Athens Marathon, which follows he legendary 42 km route of Pheidippides. It could be 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
You probably 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 vehicles. Many of the issues to do are situated proper within the port together with eating places and procuring. There may be even a swimming spot a five-minute stroll away.
Hydra is about an hour’s ferry trip away should you take the quick ferry. The associated 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 hitch 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 among my favourite issues to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek Islands. You’ll be able to be part of a crusing journey that lasts all day, or take a half-day tour. You’ll be able to 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 among the greatest methods to calm down in Greece. Click on right here for a top-rated crusing journey (on an precise sailboat) that takes you to Agistri, Moni & Aegina.
Or, should you’d choose 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 historical Temple of Poseidon sits on the Aegean Sea and was constructed within the Fifth century. An inscription on the temple confirms that it was constructed for Poseidon.
You need to attempt to be right here early within the morning or for sundown. You’ll be able to typically see a number of islands on a transparent day from the temple.
There’s a bus from Athens from the Mavromateon Terminal and you may also get it from Syntagma Sq.. Search for the bus going to Sounio. The bus fare one-way is €6.90.
Should you’d relatively be 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 ought to be prevented at evening, if not altogether. Be sure to keep watch over your purse and pockets when visiting Athens in addition to there are pickpockets round.
Becoming a member of a strolling tour with a neighborhood while you first arrive in Athens is an effective 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 positively go to Athens in a day, on two day journeys, a weekend, or in 3 days. You’ll be capable to cowl the entire predominant highlights in simply a few days, and on the third day, you’ll be able to be 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 intention to be inside strolling distance of the Acropolis, Plaka and Syntagma Sq.. Whether or not you select a resort or condominium is as much as you – some individuals choose lodges with a easy room, whereas others choose residences with a dwelling space and a kitchen.
This condominium has wonderful critiques and views of the Acropolis, whereas this condominium is in Plaka and in addition has unbelievable views plus a lot of pure gentle. For lodges, the Electra Metropolis is a highly regarded possibility and it consists of breakfast, a rooftop bar, and wonderful views.
What’s one of the best ways of getting round Athens?
One of the best ways to get round Athens is by foot utilizing Google Maps. If you must go outdoors of the primary 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 resort with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Electra Lodge has the nicest rooftop pool in all of Athens with an incredible bar, gorgeous views, and loads of areas to sit down and calm down.
What’s the neatest thing to do in Athens on a wet day?
One of the best factor to do in Athens on a wet day is to go to one of many many museums, like The Struggle 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 time months when rain is much less seemingly.
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 might be there – exploring all of the meals choices, seeing all of the archaeology and historical archaeological websites round, and aimlessly exploring and seeing what you’ll be able to uncover! I at all times love spending time in Athens, and I’m positive you’ll as properly.
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