Athens must be probably the most iconic locations I’ve visited! It’s steeped in historical historical past, stuffed with 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 fashionable and historical, Athens is a novel European capital.
This checklist will assist you 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 really like this metropolis, that is undoubtedly top-of-the-line 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! If you happen to’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 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 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 spoil. 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, which means 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 may see a lot of Athens and may see all the way in which to the ocean. The doorway payment is €30.
To find out about all of essential websites and the unbelievable historical past, I recommend becoming a member of a strolling tour. The tour may also take you to the museum (beneath).
There are a number of several types 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 certain quantity of individuals are allowed to go to the Acropolis every day. Cancellation is offered as much as 24 hours earlier than the tour. That is nice in case you’re not absolutely certain of your plans but.
2. Go to the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is among the most stunning museums I’ve ever been to. I liked my expertise right here! It’s stuffed with pure gentle, which highlights the artifacts nicely.
Right here you will 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 may 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 – examine 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, in case you go to on one among as of late, it’s free: March sixth (Melina Mercouri Day), March twenty fifth (Nationwide vacation), Might 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 purchase 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 present, it was a spot of examine, 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 may clearly see the format of the library and there may be glorious signage.
The doorway payment 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 embellished inside and out of doors the restaurant. Once I was there it was embellished 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 probably the most Instagrammable place in Athens apart from the Acropolis! Click on right here to search out it on the map.
💡 Professional Tip: If you happen to’re in Athens for some time, you may decide up a MegaPass Athens Metropolis Move. 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 further charges. Only one move for the complete 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 avenue artwork. I loved wandering across the Plaka space and snapping images 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 finest to go together with an area who can present you round and clarify the story behind the artwork. This tour exhibits you round 5 cool neighborhoods which can be lesser recognized to vacationers.
Becoming a member of a avenue artwork tour is one of the simplest ways to get off the overwhelmed path, and be taught extra in regards to 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 top-of-the-line issues to do in Athens at evening is to go bar hopping. Try 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 seemed busy, or if you wish to meet individuals 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 among the finest methods to get pleasure from Athens nightlife, particularly in case you’re on a fast journey.
The entire tables are reserved forward of time, so that you gained’t have to attend in line in any respect. If you happen to’re on the lookout for cool issues to do in Athens at evening, this can be 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 common that even Greeks eat right here. One of the best factor to eat is the Yogurtlu, which is a beef kebab coated 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 individuals at O Thanasis are pleasant and never pushy.
I believe the souvlaki can also be top-of-the-line on the town. If you happen to 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 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 might embody plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and also you smash them! It’s an ideal stress reliever and probably the most 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 basic Greek coffees, there may be additionally a frappe and a freddo espresso.
The frappe isn’t like a Starbucks frappe however as an alternative 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 scorching day in Athens.
Espresso tradition in Greece is a really huge deal. Not solely do locals drink espresso (scorching or chilly) quite a few instances all through the day, however as legend would have it, your fortune will 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 to ask somebody to indicate you easy methods 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 a good way to spend a number of hours. A lot of this space has been closed off to site visitors, though supply vehicles nonetheless are allowed by and a few streets are open.
The chain shops and extra upscale retailers are on Ermou Avenue – the place you’ll find 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 you’ll find souvenirs you would possibly wish to deliver dwelling on your family and friends. Plus, this can be a nice space for people-watching.
12. Watch the Altering of The Guard
If you happen to’re in Athens on a Sunday, you gained’t wish to miss the ceremonial Altering of the Guard. The navy 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 finest free issues to do in Athens.
I went on a Sunday and it was undoubtedly the very best time to see it. They might look just a little uncommon, however belief me, they’re extremely educated troopers referred to as the Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Go to Monastiraki Sq.
If you happen to 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 is usually a historic web site with a Ninth-century church, a Nineteenth-century mosque, and within the subway station are antiques discovered through the constructing of the primary metro station.
This is among the most bustling locations in Athens and chilling out right here is among the finest issues to do. When you’re right here, take a look at the Monastiraki flea market.
14. Get Customized Made Greek Sandals
If you are purchasing within the Plaka, make sure 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 may get a basic pair in primary 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 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 among the finest issues to do in Athens. Not solely is the sundown beautiful, however you get wonderful views of Athens from right here. You may also see the Acropolis all lit up for the night.
Earlier than you head out to benefit from the Athens nightlife, contemplate climbing Lycabettus for a pleasant sundown and possibly even a picnic.
There’s a funicular to take you up and down in case you 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 search 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. If you happen to love Greek meals like I do (and truthfully, 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 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 means by 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! If you happen to’re on the lookout for non-touristy issues to do in Athens, this can be a nice possibility – 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 may’t come to Athens and never have a basic gyro. They’re accessible nearly in every single place and you may have enjoyable looking for the very best one. A seek for your favourite gyro is among the finest 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 gentle pita bread. Typically you may organize them open-faced on a plate.
They’re fairly huge, so in case you’ve completed 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 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 may be not a lot signage on the Historical Agora so you’ll have to search for the historical past whenever you get there. The doorway payment has elevated through the years and is now €20. Click on right here to search 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 after I stayed in a lodge 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 ideal place to go to.
The opposite factor to notice is that a lot of the distributors don’t converse English, however you may level to gadgets that you simply’re keen on and use signal language (or a translation app).
There’s additionally meat and fish in case 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 means, a go to to the bustling market is among the belongings you shouldn’t miss in Athens. Discover it on the map, right here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
If you happen to’re an animal particular person, there are a number 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 may help with strolling and caring for canine and cats.
This might not be one of many extra touristy issues to do in Athens, however when you have some further time, or if you need 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 among the oldest church buildings in Athens. The attention-grabbing factor about this Greek Orthodox church is that it’s surrounded by fashionable buildings! You will discover it right here on the map.
23. Be a part of a Cooking Class with Rooftop Dinner
It’s all the time enjoyable to hitch cooking courses around the globe. You get to speak 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, 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 – truthfully, 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, however it’s a implausible place to get misplaced amongst the traditional websites.
By foot, you may 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 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 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 totally marble area 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 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
If in case you have extra time within the metropolis, take a look at these enjoyable day journeys.
1. Hydra Island
You may 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 purchasing. There may be even a swimming spot a five-minute stroll away.
Hydra is about an hour’s ferry experience away in case you 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
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek Islands. You may be a part of a crusing journey that lasts all day, or take a half-day tour. You may 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 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 beautiful 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 may 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.
If you happen to’d fairly 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 town.
What Ought to I Keep away from in Athens?
With regards to areas of Athens, Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi, and Kolokotroni Squares have excessive crime charges and must be averted at evening, if not altogether. Make certain 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 an area whenever 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 may undoubtedly go to Athens in a day, on two day journeys, a weekend, or in 3 days. You’ll be capable to cowl all the 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 lodge or condominium is as much as you – some individuals desire inns with a easy room, whereas others desire flats with a dwelling space and a kitchen.
This condominium has glorious critiques and views of the Acropolis, whereas this condominium is in Plaka and in addition has unbelievable views plus numerous pure gentle. For inns, the Electra Metropolis is a extremely popular possibility and it consists of breakfast, a rooftop bar, and glorious 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 you’ll want to go outdoors of the principle areas, you may 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 most well-liked websites.
What’s the finest lodge with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Electra Resort has the nicest rooftop pool in all of Athens with an ideal bar, beautiful views, and loads of areas to take a seat and chill out.
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 Warfare Museum. Or take a look at one of many Byzantine church buildings, eat at a few of the nice eating places with a tremendous view, or go to through the Summer season months when rain is much less possible.
Now You Know What To Do in Athens
As you may see there are such a lot of issues to do in Athens. You may even make a theme for every day you’re there – exploring all of the meals choices, seeing all of the archaeology and historical archaeological websites round, and aimlessly exploring and seeing what you may uncover! I all the time love spending time in Athens, and I’m certain you’ll as nicely.
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