25 Things to Do in Athens, Greece: Best Athens Attractions

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I was super excited to finally visit Athens. It was a destination I’d wanted to visit for a long time. I planned this trip for my fiancé as a birthday treat (he had no idea where we were going but loved ancient history, so I knew he’d be thrilled). Little did we know that there are so many wonderful things to do in Athens!

The Greek capital exceeded our expectations, with its captivating blend of ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Many people will visit the city as a quick stop before they head to the Greek islands but I preferred to dedicate a little longer.

We spent a total of 5 days in Athens and loved every second. We also managed to fill every second (although we did take a few days trips), so if you are planning on visiting, I recommend spending at least this amount of time here, but 4 days in Athens at a minimum.

So, whether you’re planning your first trip to Greece or coming back for the 5th time (I totally don’t blame you!), this guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in this brilliant city.

Where to stay in Athens

But, before we dive into the top things to do in Athens, here are a few of the top places to stay. I recommend:

• ££ – Fos Residential Apartments in Plaka is a great option. These stylish apartments have views over the city and are within walking distance of many top attractions, including Monastiraki Square. I recommend this neighbourhood if you want to stay in the prettiest part of Athens.
• £ – Achilleas Hotel Athens is a great hotel in Syntagma. It’s close to all the action and has pleasantly decorated rooms. Syntagma is considered THE centre of the city, so this is a great place to stay if you want to be at the heart of the action.
• £ – Ederlezi Boutique Hotel features a gorgeous rustic design and a cosy garden where you can relax during the evening. It’s located in Psyri, which is the perfect place to stay in Athens if you love nightlife.

25 Best Things to Do in Athens

So, without further ado, here are the 25 best things to do in Athens, Greece. I’ve also included the cost of everything, so you know exactly what you’ll be spending on your trip.

Top Tip: Though I’ve included the prices separately, you can also purchase a combo ticket for the Acropolis, Ancient Agora of Athens, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Kerameikos, and Aristotle’s Lyceum.

1. Explore the Parthenon

Cost: Included in Acropolis ticket.

The Parthenon was one of the best things we did in Athens (if now THE best). Standing proudly atop the Acropolis Hill, it’s pretty much the postcard picture of the city. It’s also one of the city’s most important archaeological sites. It was built in the 5th century BC and dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Whenever you see photos of Athens, you always see the Parthenon, so I thought I was prepared for how magnificent it was. But we finally stood in front of those massive columns, it was jaw-dropping. It really makes you wonder how they managed to build something so magnificent back then. The intricate carvings and the sheer size of the structure were pretty impressive.

Plus, the view from up there was amazing. You could see the entire city stretching out below. If you’re into history or just love epic sights, the Parthenon is a must-see.

To book the Acropolis combo ticket, click here.

2. Visit the Acropolis of Athens

Cost: €20 per adult during the summer months. However, during winter (Nov to March) this is reduced to €10. It’s free on the 1st Sunday of the month during winter as well!

The Acropolis is an Athens must see. A collection of ancient ruins perched high on a rocky hill overlooking the city, this structure pretty much holds the entire history of Greece.

The magnificent structures consist of quite a few historical monuments. You’ll probably need around 2.5 – 3 hours to see everything here, so be sure to allow for this time in your visit. Although there are quite often queues, getting here early is advisable if you want to beat some of the crowds at the top.

We visited the city in late October, so the crowds certainly weren’t as bad as in the peak summer months. But, being one of the most popular places to visit in Athens, you can still expect it to be busy.

3. Go back in Olympic History at the Panathenaic Stadium

Cost: €10 per adult.

I loved visiting the Panathenaic Stadium. This historic venue, originally built in the 4th century BC and restored to its former glory, has witnessed countless athletic triumphs over the centuries.

This stadium holds a special place in history as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. It’s also the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. The Stadium still holds important events to this day and served as the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

The Stadium is a pretty magnificent structure to visit. You can wander around the sheer size of the venue, read up about the history, and don’t forget to snap a photograph with the famous podium! You can expect to spend up to an hour here, so you definitely won’t need as long as you did at the Acropolis.

4. Visit the Acropolis Museum

Cost: €15 per adult in summer, and €10 per adult in winter (Nov – March). They also have free entrance days – check the website for details.

If you want to delve deeper into the Greek capital’s fascinating history, the Acropolis Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Athens. Located at the foot of the Acropolis Hill, this masterpiece showcases a vast collection of archaeological finds from the site and surrounding areas. 

You’ll be able to wander the many exhibits learning about the everyday life of the ancient Greeks. You can see not only the large sculptures and statues from significant historical sights, but also simple objects, like pots, pans, and old coins. The museum’s design itself is a work of art too, with its glass floors which allow you can see down into the excavations below.

To book tickets to the Acropolis Museum, click here.

5. See the Erechtheion

Cost: Included in Acropolis ticket.

Another iconic temple perched on the Acropolis, the Erechtheion is named after the mythical king Erechtheus. It’s also dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, making it a place of great religious significance. 

What makes the Erechtheion truly unique is the beautifully carved female statues that support the roof. These majestic figures have become symbols of grace and beauty. Plus, they’re some of the most well-preserved statues that remain on the Acropolis Hill.

The intricate carvings and ornate details of the temple, combined with its panoramic location, make this one of the top sights to see in Athens.

6. Visit the Temple of Hephaestus

Cost: Included in the Agora ticket.

The Temple of Hephaestus is a remarkably well-preserved ancient Greek temple located in the Agora of Athens. Dedicated to the god of fire and craftsmanship, Hephaestus, this temple actually seems better preserved than the famous Acropolis.

Of course, it’s in a much less impressive location and you don’t get the magnificent views that you see from the Acropolis. But what you do get is a thorough insight into how this structure would’ve looked all those years ago. It’s stunning and it turned out to be one of my favourite temples in Athens.

To book tickets for the Roman Agora, click here.

7. Marvel at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Cost: Included in Acropolis ticket. 

Talking of favourite temples in Athens, the Odean of Herodes Atticus was my favourite of the archaeological sites on the Acropolis. I thought it was absolutely magnificent.

This majestic amphitheatre is nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Built in the 2nd century AD, it was originally used for musical and theatrical performances. Today, the Odeon still hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events. Partly because it has remarkable acoustics and partly because the backdrop of the surrounding historical landmarks creates a captivating atmosphere.

Can you imagine watching a performance here? It would be absolutely stunning and feel like you were stepping back in time. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Athens, and it’s honestly such an impressive structure.

8. wander the Roman Agora

Cost: €8 per adult in summer and €4 per person in winter (Nov to March)

The Roman Agora, located in the heart of Athens, is a huge archaeological site that offers another glimpse into the city’s Roman past. This bustling former marketplace was built during the reign of the Roman Empire and served as a place where locals would trade goods, sell their wares, and meet up with others.

It was also a place for social gatherings. People would meet here to talk and catch up, and it was also often a meeting place for discussions and social events.

To book tickets for the Roman Agora, click here.

9. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Cost: €8 per adult in summer and €4 per person in winter (Nov to March)

This colossal temple, dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus, was one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Although only a few columns are left today, the temple was originally intended to have a whopping 104 columns.

Even though it was never finished, the construction of what’s there spanned several centuries. So, you can imagine the sheer size of what it was supposed to be. Although it requires a bit of imagination, you can see why this is one of the best places to visit in Athens.

10. explore the National Archeological Museum

Cost: €15 (April to October) and €6 (November to March).

For lovers of history, if you’re wondering what to do in Athens, you can’t go wrong with The National Archaeological Museum. This treasure trove of Greek history holds an impressive collection of artefacts that span thousands of years, from prehistoric times to the Roman era. 

The museum displays some of the top finds from archaeological sites all over Greece. This includes finds from the hilltop city of Delphi, islands like Rhodes and Kos, and the sacred island of Delos near Mykonos.

Inside the museum, you’ll find everything from an extensive array of sculptures, pottery, and jewellery, to artefacts that offer insights into the daily life, mythology, and artistic achievements of ancient Greece. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter masterpieces like the iconic Mask of Agamemnon and the captivating bronze statue of Poseidon. 

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about ancient Athens, the National Archaeological Museum is one of the best things to do in Athens.

11. Visit the Temple of Athena Nike

Cost: Included in Acropolis ticket.

The Temple of Athena Nike is another remarkable ancient Greek temple nestled on the Acropolis. Dedicated to the goddess of victory, Athena Nike, this small yet detailed temple holds a significant place in Greek history and mythology. 

Its elegant Ionic columns are very detailed. The temple’s design and location were carefully planned to emphasize its symbolic importance. It was believed that the temple protected the city in times of war and brought glory and success to the city.

12. Explore the Benaki Museum

Cost: €9 per adult. They also have a reduced rate for students of €7. 

The Benaki Museum is a cultural gem that showcases the diverse history and artistry of Greece. Established in 1930, it houses a remarkable collection of artworks that spans over 9,000 years of Greek history of years, from ancient artefacts to contemporary works.

Slightly different to the historical museums we’ve covered so far, the Benaki Museum shows a diverse array of exhibits. This includes fine art, decorative arts, historical objects, and ethnographic collections. 

Don’t miss the exceptional collection of Greek outfits and clothing and its display of Byzantine and post-Byzantine religious art. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, providing fresh and engaging experiences for visitors.

To book tickets for the Benaki Museum, click here.

13. Wander the Streets of Plaka

Cost: Free

The cutest neighbourhood in the city is easily one to include on a list of the best things to do in Athens. Plaka is one of the oldest continuously inhabited neighbourhoods in the city. Walking through its narrow, picturesque streets, you’ll be able to experience a unique blend of ancient and modern Greek culture. 

Plaka is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with lively tavernas, quaint shops, and traditional Greek music filling the air. Be sure to visit the beautiful Anafiotika district, a hidden gem within Plaka, characterized by its white-washed houses and narrow pathways. It reminded me of many Greek islands.

Plaka is a great place to soak in the local ambience, indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.

14. Admire the Views from Mount Lycabettus

Cost: Free if you hike. €10 per person to use the cable car.

For the best views in Athens, you’re going to want to head up this mountain. We attempted this on a fairly warm day in October and, be warned, it does get pretty tiring. And hot! So, I recommend planning this for the morning, or evening. Sunset views from here would be gorgeous.

At 277 meters, Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens. To reach the summit, you can either hike up the winding path (like we did) or take a funicular railway for a more leisurely ascent.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. You can see the Acropolis, and also as far as the Aegean Sea. 

The mountaintop is also home to the charming Chapel of St. George, a picturesque white chapel that adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

15. Climb Philopappos Hill

Cost: Free

Philopappos Hill, also known as Mouseion Hill, is a captivating natural landmark located southwest of the Acropolis in Athens. The hill provides a peaceful and scenic escape from the bustling city, with lush greenery and a few walking trails. 

One of the highlights of Philopappos Hill is the Philopappos Monument, an ancient mausoleum that dates back to the 2nd century AD. The hill also provides stunning views over the city including the Acropolis, the Saronic Gulf, and the sprawling cityscape.

It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, especially at sunset, as this is a beautiful spot to watch the sun going down over the city.

16. See the Church of Kapnikarea

Cost: Free

One of the oldest surviving churches in the city this spot dates back to the 11th century. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Athens if you love immersing yourself in a city’s history.

The church itself showcases a fascinating blend of architectural styles, combining Byzantine, Roman, and Gothic elements. Inside, you’ll find beautiful iconography on the walls. However, one of the most intriguing features of the Church of Kapnikarea is its unique circular shape, which sets it apart from the traditional cruciform layout of most Greek Orthodox churches.

To find it, you’ll need to head to the vibrant commercial district of Ermou Street. This can be a pretty busy area with cafes, shops, and a lot of locals going about their day – it’s a great spot for a bit of people-watching after you’ve explored the church.

17. Explore Monastiraki Square and Monastiraki Flea Market

Cost: Free

Monastiraki Square is another vibrant and lively hub in the centre of the city. Its name originates from the Monastiraki neighbourhood, which is known for its bustling markets and historic landmarks. Like Ermou Street above, this square is often pretty busy and has a lively atmosphere of locals and tourists day and night. 

While you’re in Monastiraki Square, you absolutely have to visit the Tzisdarakis Mosque. This beautifully preserved Ottoman-era mosque is one of the best places to visit in Athens.

However, it’s safe to say that the square is most famous for the Monastiraki Flea Market. Every Sunday, this Flea Market dominates the square, offering a wide array of treasures including antiques, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs.

I recommend visiting on a Sunday morning which is when most of the tradespeaople arrive. You’ll find a whole range of great things here including antique furniture, silver crockery, homemade soaps and candles, old ornaments, musical instruments, dusty books, and everything in between.

18. Visit Psyrri

Cost: Free

This was once a neglected and rundown area, but in recent years, Psyrri has transformed into a trendy and artistic district and one of the best places to visit in Athens. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Psyrri is home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues that come alive after sunset. 

During the day, the neighbourhood has a kind of bohemian charm. Its narrow streets are full of colourful street art, quaint cafes, and unique shops. Psyrri is also a haven for food lovers, and you’ll find a wide range of culinary delights, from traditional Greek tavernas to modern fusion cuisine. 

19. See the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Cost: Free

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located in Syntagma Square. It’s a solemn and symbolic monument that pays tribute to the fallen heroes of Greece. 

The monument is guarded by the elite Greek Presidential Guard, known for its distinctive traditional uniforms and impressive ceremonial drills. The Changing of the Guard ceremony, (a little like the Changing of the Guard in London) takes place every hour.

The tomb itself is a marble structure with a bronze relief depicting a fallen soldier. Surrounding the tomb is a plaza where you can pay your respects and lay wreaths in honour of the fallen and you’ll find the Parliament Building behind it. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is not only a place of remembrance but also a symbol of national unity and gratitude toward those who gave their lives for their country.

20. Go for a Walk in the National Garden

Cost: Free

Nestled in the heart of Athens, the National Garden provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can go for a stroll down the meandering pathways. it’s pretty peaceful underneath the greenery, especially in the spring and summer months when the flowers are blooming.

You’ll also find an impressive variety of plant species, from native Mediterranean olive trees to exotic palms and aromatic herbs. There are also a few duck ponds with water features, along with well-tended flowerbeds. And don’t be surprised if you come across sculptures and historical landmarks hidden amid the greenery!

21. Visit Hadrian’s Library

Cost: Included in the Acropolis combo ticket.

Another of the best archaeological sites to visit in Athens is Hadrian’s Library. Located near Monastiraki Square at the foot of Athens’s southern slope, this historical monument is all that remains of the largest structure ever erected by the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

Created in the 2nd century AD, this was designed the same way a traditional Roman Forum (like the one in Rome) was. There would’ve been a pool in the centre, bordered by the usual towering columns. Then, the actual library, as well as two churches and a room where lectures were once held, were also on the site.

To book the Acropolis Combination ticket, click here.

22. Enjoy a Drink at One of Athens’ Rooftop Bars

Cost: Depends on how much you drink!

Easily one of the top things to do in Athens, grabbing a drink at one of the city’s rooftop bars is one of the best ways to see the city. It’s also one of the best ways to spend the evening after a day of seeing ancient temples and archaeological sites.

Athens has lots of rooftop bars. Some of the best ones include:

• Thea Terrace Bar – Located near Syntagma Square, this bar features stylish decoration with wooden dining tables and flower beds. There’s a full menu as well as just a bar, so you could grab dinner here as well as drinks.
• Ermou 18 – This all-day rooftop bar is a combination of rustic and stylish. You’ll find rattan chairs, benches, and bar stools, and an extensive dinner menu as well as handcrafted cocktails, and aperitivo.
• Safestay Athens – This is one of the most affordable rooftop bars in Athens, located on top of the Safestay Athens Hostel. It offers a 360-degree view of downtown Athens and the Acropolis towering over the city and serves traditional Greek food alongside drinks.

We had a drink at a rooftop bar during our first night in Athens and it was a wonderful end to the day. The hotel we stayed at B4B Athens, had a rooftop bar, so we went up there and had a few drinks before heading out to dinner. The views over the Acropolis were fantastic and the barman gave us a few free shots of ouzo too!

23. Take a Day Trip to Corinth

Cost: €8 for the archaeological museum. Plus car hire costs which you can find here.

While in Athens we decided to hire a car and take a day trip to Corinth. It was a short drive away and easily one of the best things to do in Athens. 

Corinth was once a thriving city and a crucial centre of trade and culture. Today, you can explore the well-preserved ruins of ancient Corinth. This includes the iconic Temple of Apollo, the ancient marketplace (agora), and the stunning fortress of Acrocorinth. Walking through the archaeological site is pretty impressive and you can envision the sheer scale of the city that once stood here. 

Additionally, a visit to the Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas, is a must-see. We also continued a little further to the small town of Nafplion, a beautiful place with a charming old town and gorgeous bay. It also had some amazing restaurants – the perfect dinner stop after a day’s exploring.

If you don’t want to hire a car, you can also book this trip as a guided tour.

To book a day trip to Corinth from Athens, click here.

24. Take a Day Trip to Delphi

Cost: £50 for a guided day trip or €12 for entrance to the archaeological museum if you choose to self-drive.

Another of the top things we did in Athens was take a day trip to Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once considered the centre of the world in ancient times. The site is known for being home to the Oracle of Delphi a famous spot in Greek Mythology. You can also explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theatre.

Walking through the Sacred Way, you’ll encounter impressive monuments and treasuries that once housed offerings from ancient civilizations. The Delphi Archaeological Museum is also a must-visit, showcasing a remarkable collection of artefacts, including the iconic Charioteer of Delphi.

As well as its historical significance, Delphi is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning views of the mountains and the valley below. On the way back from Delphi, our driver stopped at a viewpoint of the gorgeous town of Arrachova – this was such a beautiful place and featured even more stunning views.

We booked this as a guided tour as opposed to hiring a car and it was a great experience. The guide was knowledgeable and gave us plenty of time at each stop.

To book a guided tour to Delphi, click here.

25. Eat Gyros

Cost: €5-10

And last but not least, I couldn’t talk about the best things to do in Athens without mentioning their cuisine! Eating gyros in Athens is an absolute must for any food lover. This iconic Greek street food has gained worldwide popularity but you can’t beat the real deal!

In Athens, you’ll find numerous street vendors and local eateries that serve fresh gyros. While restaurants will also sell the Greek dish, I personally found street food to be the best option. You just can’t beat a traditional gyros pitta. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Monastiraki or strolling through the vibrant Plaka neighbourhood, you’re sure to stumble upon a gyro stand that will tempt your taste buds.

Getting Around Athens

We found getting around Athens to be very simple. If you stay within walking distance of the Acropolis (see some of these hotels for the best options), then everything on this list will be easy to reach on foot.

If you don’t fancy walking everywhere, then Athens also has a reliable public transport system. There are buses, metro, and trams in Athens and stations at eh most popular spots in the city like Syntagma Square, Monastiraki Square, and near to the Acropolis Museum.

To get from Athens airport to the city, we simply hired a transfer as our plane landed late at night and we didn’t fancy using public transport. However, you can also get the metro to the city centre. The journey takes about 40 minutes and trains run every 30 minutes. A one-way ticket costs €9 and a return cost €16.

How many days should you spend in Athens?

We spent 5 days in Athens and found it to be the perfect amount of time. We were able to spend 3 days exploring the city and go on 2 day trips.

If you were only looking to see the bare minimum of what Athens has to offer, you could get away with spending just 2 days in Athens. If you just wanted to see the Acropolis, you could do it in just 1 day.

However, I think these two trips really added to the overall experience of visiting mainland Greece. If I were to recommend an amount of time to spend in the city, it would be between 5 or 4 days in Athens.

This will give you enough time to see everything at a leisurely pace and take a few day trips from Athens.

👉 Haven’t chosen a place to stay yet? Here are all of my favourite places to stay in Athens for both luxury and budget travellers. 

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