There are a number of things that visitors can do and see in Athens, insider tips, and how to explore like a local while they are there

There is no doubt that Athens, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and classical art, is a captivating city attracting travelers from all over the world. Athens has something for everyone, no matter if you are a history buff, a foodie, or someone who wants to experience the vibrant energy of the city for the first time. You will find everything you need to know in this most comprehensive guide to Athens, including what you can see and do, how to stay safe, where to stay, how much to expect to pay, food, and more. To help you make the most of your visit to Athens, I’ll also share some personal anecdotes from my time spent in the city.

Key Takeaways:

The city of Athens is a vibrant city full of ancient history and a fusion of modern culture.
You shouldn’t miss the Acropolis, but you should also take some time to explore the local neighborhoods and lesser-known sites in the area.
It is important to note that Athens is an accessible destination due to its affordable food and accommodation options.
In order to get around the city, the best way is to use public transportation.

9 Things to See and Do in Athens
Other Things to See and Do in Athens
How to Stay Safe in Athens
Where to Stay in Athens
Typical Costs in Athens
Food
Accommodation
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips for Athens
How to Get Around Athens
When to Visit Athens
Best Places to Book Your Trip

Here are 9 things to do and see in Athens that you shouldn’t miss

1.1 The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in Athens. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the city, this ancient citadel is home to the majestic Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Zeus. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis offers an immersive journey into Greece‘s classical past. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is the star of the show, with its stunning Doric columns and intricate friezes.

Personal Insight: My visit to the Acropolis was a dream come true. Standing beneath the towering columns of the Parthenon, I couldn’t help but imagine what it must have been like during its prime. The view of Athens from here is also one of the best in the city.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially in summer. Tickets are around €20, but you can purchase a combination ticket for €30, which includes access to several archaeological sites.

1.2 The Acropolis Museum

Located just a short walk from the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum is a must-visit for anyone keen on learning more about the ancient history of Athens. This modern museum showcases many of the Parthenon marbles, including sculptures and friezes. The building itself is a work of art, with glass floors revealing archaeological remains beneath.

Anecdote: I spent an entire afternoon here, and I was fascinated by the level of detail in the sculptures. The museum’s open-air restaurant offers a lovely view of the Acropolis – perfect for a post-exploration break.

Tip: Tickets for the museum cost around €10, and it’s open daily. Don’t miss the stunning glass floor at the entrance.

1.3 The Ancient Agora

Just below the Acropolis lies the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, where citizens gathered for public meetings, markets, and philosophical debates. You’ll find the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, as well as the Stoa of Attalos, which houses the Agora Museum.

Personal Insight: Walking through the Agora felt like stepping back in time. I sat on one of the ancient stone benches, imagining the philosophers and politicians who once stood in the same spot.

1.4 Plaka and Monastiraki

Explore the charming neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, which are filled with narrow streets, quaint shops, vibrant cafes, and historical landmarks. Plaka, known as the “neighborhood of the gods,” is especially picturesque with its colorful houses and small squares. Monastiraki is home to a bustling flea market, perfect for souvenir hunting.

Tip: In the evenings, Plaka comes alive with locals enjoying dinner outdoors. I highly recommend trying a local taverna for some authentic Greek food.

1.5 Mount Lycabettus

If you’re looking for an incredible view of Athens, make your way to Mount Lycabettus. This hilltop is the highest point in Athens and offers panoramic views of the entire city, including the Acropolis and the Mediterranean Sea. You can either hike up or take a funicular to the top.

Anecdote: I took the funicular up and watched the sunset from the top – an unforgettable experience! The colors of the sky over Athens were simply mesmerizing.

Tip: Visit around sunset to catch the golden hour and enjoy a magical view.

1.6 The National Archaeological Museum

For history buffs, the National Archaeological Museum is one of the best places to delve deeper into Greece’s rich history. With over 11,000 artifacts, the museum showcases relics from ancient Greece, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. The museum’s Mycenaean collection is one of the highlights.

Tip: The museum is open daily, and admission is around €10. If you want to skip the long lines, consider booking tickets online in advance.

1.7 Syntagma Square and the Changing of the Guard

Syntagma Square, the central hub of Athens, is where you’ll find the Greek Parliament and the famous Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guards, known as Evzones, wear traditional uniforms and perform an intricate and ceremonial change every hour.

Personal Insight: I witnessed the Changing of the Guard on a sunny afternoon. It’s a fun spectacle to watch, and the guards’ precision is truly impressive.

Tip: If you’re in Athens on a Sunday, the ceremony is particularly elaborate, with more guards in attendance.

1.8 The Temple of Olympian Zeus

Once the largest temple in Greece, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a colossal site located just a short walk from Syntagma Square. While much of the temple is in ruins, the 15 standing columns give you an idea of the grandeur of the structure.

Tip: Entry is typically around €6. Make sure to snap a few photos with the columns in the background!

1.9 The Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. This massive stadium, made entirely of marble, can hold up to 50,000 spectators. It’s a fascinating place to visit, especially for those interested in the history of the Olympics.

Tip: Admission is approximately €5, and you can walk around the track or even take a tour of the stadium.

In addition to the above, there are many other things to see and do in Athens

2.1 Explore the Athenian Riviera

While Athens is often associated with ancient history, the Athenian Riviera offers a more relaxed, seaside experience. Head south from the city center to explore sandy beaches, seaside resorts, and the charming Cape Sounion, where the Temple of Poseidon overlooks the Aegean Sea.

Anecdote: I rented a car for the day and drove along the coast, stopping at the beach to enjoy a refreshing swim. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

2.2 The Benaki Museum

For a deep dive into Greek culture, the Benaki Museum is a must. The museum houses an extensive collection of art, textiles, and historical artifacts from Greece’s past. Located in a beautiful neoclassical building, it’s a peaceful spot to spend a few hours.

3. Go on a walking tour of the city

A walking tour is one of the first things that I do when I arrive in a new city for the very first time. A local guide can provide you with a comprehensive overview of the area, show you the main attractions, and answer all your questions about what you can see and do.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a more in-depth and specific tour, Take Walks is the way to go. Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis Acropolis get a lot of behind-the-scenes access as well, including the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. The price of the tour starts at 62 euros. Especially if you’re a history buff like myself, it’s definitely worth the money you spend!

4. Take a stroll around the Varvakios Agora (Central Market) in Athens.

One of my favorite places to wander around, people watch, and sample the local cuisine is this 19th-century public market, which has been around for over a century. The unloading of the fish and produce begins early in the morning, so be sure to come early. It is a great place to find a great variety of Greek specialties, such as olives, halloumi, and feta cheese. The restaurant is open every day of the week except Sunday, from 7am to 6pm (it gets very crowded around lunchtime, so get there early if you wish to eat there). There is nothing better than eating at Diporto if you have an appetite. It is a non-menu restaurant, so the food is prepared on the spot as soon as it is ready. In spite of the fact that the owners barely speak English, the food that they serve is very good!

5. Take a trip to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

There is a remarkably well-preserved Temple of Poseidon, which was built in 444 BCE, perched on a rock outcrop 70 meters above the ocean, and constructed in 444 BCE. The temple was built to honor the god of the sea, and it served as a welcome sight for sailors returning home after a long voyage. In addition to the amazing sunsets, there are several beaches nearby in Legrena and Lavrio where you can enjoy the water. It was an incredible experience, and one of my favorites among the historic sites that I have visited beyond the five major world sites, to see the ruins and towering white pillars against a turquoise sea backdrop. The archaeological site is open to the public for a price of 10 euros. In terms of distance, Athens is about an hour away.

6. Take a tour of the Kanellopoulos Museum

An ex-mansion that dates back to 1884 now houses an impressive collection of over 6,500 items, which includes jewelry, weapons, clay-and-stone vases, Byzantine art, figurines, and furniture that once belonged to the wealthy Kanellopoulos family. As a result of the collection being purchased by the government and becoming a museum in 1976, it was turned into a museum. In spite of the fact that there is not a lot of English signage around, you rarely have to compete with other tourists for views. There is a fee of 3 euros for admission.

7. Go to the Tower of the Winds (Aerides) and see it for yourself

This octagonal tower was originally built by Andronicus in the first century BCE as a sundial, weathervane, compass, and water clock, in addition to its original use as a sundial. As far as meteorological stations are concerned, it has been widely accepted that this is the first one in the world. All of the tower’s structure is made of Pentelic marble, a type of marble that was used for the Parthenon and was very rarely used for anything but temples during its lifetime. Located at the edge of the Roman Agora and surrounded by remnants from that era, the tower can be found at the edge of the Roman Agora. As part of the combined ticket to the Ancient Agora, it costs 10 EUR to visit the site.

Here are some tips on how to stay safe in Athens

The city of Athens is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists to visit. It is important to bear in mind that, as with any major metropolitan area, there are a few precautions that must be taken:

There are many pickpockets in crowded areas like Monastiraki, Plaka, and the public transportation system as well. Be sure to keep your valuables safe at all times.
Scams on the street: Keep an eye out for people who may try to distract you while another person steals from your bag or your pockets while you are distracted.
It’s always advisable to stick with a group when heading out late at night to bars and clubs in Athens, even though the city has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Where to Stay in Athens

4.1 Syntagma and Plaka

Syntagma and Plaka are perfect areas for first-time visitors, offering proximity to the Acropolis and other major landmarks. You’ll find a mix of luxury hotels and more affordable options.

4.2 Monastiraki and Psiri

If you want to be in the heart of Athens’ nightlife, Monastiraki and Psiri are great choices. Both neighborhoods are known for their lively atmosphere and cool boutiques.

4.3 Kolonaki

For a more upscale experience, Kolonaki offers chic cafes, high-end boutiques, and luxury hotels. It’s perfect for those seeking a more sophisticated stay.

Typical Costs in Athens

5.1 Food

Food in Athens can be very affordable, especially if you stick to local tavernas. A typical meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around €15-€20. Street food, like gyros or souvlaki, is cheap and delicious, costing around €2-€5.

5.2 Accommodation

Budget: Hostels and budget hotels start around €30-€50 per night.
Mid-range: A 3-star hotel will cost around €80-€150 per night.
Luxury: High-end hotels can range from €200 to €500+ per night.

Money-Saving Tips for Athens

Use public transportation: Athens has an excellent metro system that’s affordable and efficient.
Visit free attractions: Many of Athens’ best sights, like the changing of the guard, are free to visit.
Eat like a local: Savor street food and enjoy meals in casual tavernas to save money.

How to Get Around Athens

The city is well-connected by public transport. The Athens Metro is the most convenient and affordable way to get around. Taxis are also available, but they can be pricier. Walking is often the best way to explore the historic center.

When to Visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (June to August) can be hot and crowded, so I recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons.

Best Places to Book Your Trip

Booking.com and Airbnb offer a range of accommodations from budget to luxury.
Skyscanner or Google Flights are great tools for booking flights.
For tours, I recommend GetYourGuide and Viator for a variety of local experiences.

FAQs

Q: Is Athens expensive?
Athens is affordable compared to other European capitals, especially if you focus on local food and public transport.

Q: What’s the best time to visit Athens?
The spring and fall months offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Q: How many days should I spend in Athens?
Three to four days is perfect to see the major attractions and soak in the local vibe.

Athens Travel Guide: Top Sights & Tips