Athens has to be one of the most iconic destinations I’ve visited! It’s steeped in ancient history, filled with delicious food options, and endless things to see and do. I’m a history buffs, so seeing the imposing Acropolis for the first time was an incredible feeling!
Whether you’re into ancient history or not, Athens is a fun city to visit. With its gritty vibe, and stark contrast between modern and ancient, Athens is a unique European capital.
This list will help you decide what to do in Athens during your time here – no matter how long your visit is. I’ll share a mix of history, food, shopping, nightlife & unique things to do in Athens. I love this city, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.
I’ve been to Athens numerous times, and will probably be visiting again this year! If you’re flying in, Athens will most likely be your first stop in Greece. Spend a couple of days enjoying the city before heading to one of the dreamy Greek Islands.
Here’s my list of the best things to do in Athens, Greece.
1. Climb to the Acropolis
The first time I saw the Acropolis, my jaw dropped. No matter how many ancient sites you’ve seen, seeing the Acropolis towering over the city is pretty special!
To be clear, the Acropolis is the entire city on the hill – not one particular ruin. It’s dedicated to the goddess Athena, and a visit to the 5th-century Acropolis is the most popular thing to do in Athens – by far.
Of course, this means that everyone wants to go there, including visitors from cruise ships. My advice is to get there early. The archaeological site itself opens at 8:00am and the cruise ship passengers arrive around 10 am.
Most people visit the Acropolis to see the Parthenon but there are several other things to see on the hill, including the Erechtheion, the Arrhephorion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
From the Acropolis, you can see much of Athens and can see all the way to the sea. The entrance fee is €30.
To learn about all of important sites and the incredible history, I suggest joining a walking tour. The tour will also take you to the museum (below).
There are a few different types of tours you can take, but click here to learn more about a highly-rated, skip-the-line tour. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, which is great as only a certain amount of people are allowed to visit the Acropolis each day. Cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. This is great if you’re not fully sure of your plans yet.
2. Visit the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is one of the most beautiful museums I have ever been to. I loved my experience here! It’s filled with natural light, which highlights the artifacts well.
Here you can get a close look at the Parthenon frieze replicas on display, and much more ancient Greek art. The cafe balcony also offers great views of ancient ruins in Athens. You can learn more about the Acropolis on my blog.
Either before or after you visit the Acropolis, you must visit the Acropolis Museum – check if your guided tour includes the museum, most of them do.
It’s not far from the entrance of the Acropolis and the entrance fee is €20. BUT, if you visit on one of these days, it’s free: March 6th (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25th (National holiday), May 18th (International Day of Museums), October 28th (National holiday).
Line-ups here can be huge, to skip the line, purchase your ticket ahead of time here. Alternatively, you can buy an all-inclusive ticket for both the museum and the Acropolis here.
3. See Hadrian’s Library
This library is not a library in the sense we know it today, it was a place of study, not a place where books were lent.
In Greek Antiquity, Hadrian’s Library was constructed around 132 AD for housing documents and reading rooms. There’s not much left but you can clearly see the layout of the library and there is excellent signage.
The entrance fee is €4 ($4.70). Hadrian’s Library is a small museum located in the Monastiraki neighborhood not far from the Acropolis and the Monastiraki flea market, and is part of many Greek Mythology Tours.
4. See the Decorations at Little KooK
I discovered Little KooK on my most recent trip to Athens. Each holiday season it’s decorated inside and outside the restaurant. When I was there it was decorated for Halloween.
Little KooK is mainly a dessert cafe, but the top attraction is the decorations. This one of the most whimsical places I’ve been, and is probably the most Instagrammable place in Athens besides the Acropolis! Click here to find it on the map.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re in Athens for a while, you can pick up a MegaPass Athens City Pass. With it, you can skip the fluff and head straight to the highlights – the Acropolis, Parthenon, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, audio guides, and more. It’s all included, no extra fees. Just one pass for the full Athens experience.
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5. Take a Street Art Tour
It’s true, Athens is a bit of a gritty city, but with that, comes some incredible street art. I enjoyed wandering around the Plaka area and snapping photos of the art. And yes, the street art in Athens ranges from regular graffiti tags, to some incredible pieces.
While you can find much of it on your own in the Plaka area, it’s best to go with a local who can show you around and explain the story behind the art. This tour shows you around 5 cool neighborhoods that are lesser known to tourists.
Joining a street art tour is the best way to get off the beaten path, and learn more about the city. This is my pick for one of the more unique things to do in Athens.
6. Go Bar Hopping
For such a fun city, it’s no surprise that one of the best things to do in Athens at night is to go bar hopping. Check out Psiri (Psyrri) for the overall best nightlife, Kolonaki for more upscale nights out, and Gazi for clubs/partying.
You can do like I did and wander around, stopping in at places that looked busy, or if you want to meet people and learn a bit about the city, you can join a food and booze tour.
With this fun, local experience, you’ll explore 3 different areas of Athens, and visit 3 different bars there, while enjoying drinks, food, and great conversation with new friends.
A bar hopping tour is one of the best ways to enjoy Athens nightlife, especially if you’re on a quick trip.
All of the tables are reserved ahead of time, so you won’t have to wait in line at all. If you’re looking for cool things to do in Athens at night, this is a good option. Find out more here.
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7. Eat The Best Yogurtlu and Souvlaki
O Thanasis is one of the most popular places to eat in Plaka. It’s so popular that even Greeks eat here. The best thing to eat is the Yogurtlu, which is a beef kebab covered in yogurt on a bed of pita bread.
The Yogurtlu is large enough to split with someone and it’ll set you back around €15. The people at O Thanasis are friendly and not pushy.
I think the souvlaki is also one of the best in town. If you don’t make it here, you can also get some delicious souvlaki at many of a flea markets and markets in town.
8. Smash Things at Limba Rage Room
Feeling a little stressed out? Need to get some rage out? Limba Rage Room is the place to do just that.
You purchase a package (which can include plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and you smash them! It’s a great stress reliever and one of the most unique things to do in Athens.
There are a variety of packages for every budget. They range from €10 to €100. Don’t worry, they give you protective gear to wear. It’s located just down the street from Little KooK.
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9. Drink a Greek Coffee
I love getting my freddo fix when in Greece! Sampling a freddo cappuccino is one of the must-do things in Athens. This is just one of three classic Greek coffees, there is also a frappe and a freddo espresso.
The frappe is not like a Starbucks frappe but instead is made with instant coffee, water, and sugar (if you choose).
The freddo cappuccino is espresso topped with frothy milk (which is my favourite).
The freddo espresso is just swirled espresso over ice. All of these coffees pack a serious caffeine punch but since they are all served cold, it is great on a hot day in Athens.
Coffee culture in Greece is a very big deal. Not only do locals drink coffee (hot or cold) numerous times throughout the day, but as legend would have it, your fortune can be told by reading the dregs of coffee left at the bottom of your cup.
The next time you’ve finished drinking your coffee in Athens, make sure to ask someone to show you how to read your fortune.
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10. Shop in The Plaka
The Plaka is a neighborhood located below the Acropolis with charming streets and shops. Wandering around here is a great way to spend a few hours. Much of this area has been closed off to traffic, although delivery trucks still are allowed through and some streets are open.
The chain stores and more upscale shops are on Ermou Street – where you can find shops like Sephora and H&M.
Then there are tourist shops, a flea market, and lower-end shops, which are further down past Monastiraki Square. Here you can find souvenirs you might want to bring home for your friends and family. Plus, this is a great area for people-watching.
12. Watch the Changing of The Guard
If you’re in Athens on a Sunday, you won’t want to miss the ceremonial Changing of the Guard. The military guards change every hour, but on Sundays at 11:00am, they put on an elaborate show with traditional uniforms.
The Changing of the Guard takes place at Syntagma Square at the Parliament Building. The best place to view it from is the Presidential Mansion. This is one of the best free things to do in Athens.
I went on a Sunday and it was definitely the best time to see it. They may look a little unusual, but trust me, they are highly trained soldiers called the Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Visit Monastiraki Square
If you sit in Monastiraki Square long enough, I swear you will see everyone in Athens walk by. This is the place to watch tourists and locals interact.
It is also a historic site with a 9th-century church, a 19th-century mosque, and in the subway station are antiques found during the building of the first metro station.
This is one of the most bustling places in Athens and chilling out here is one of the best things to do. While you’re here, check out the Monastiraki flea market.
14. Get Custom Made Greek Sandals
While you are shopping in the Plaka, be sure to stop at Pantelis Melissions The Poet Sandalmaker for a pair of custom-made Greek sandals. This shop has been around since 1920 and has been passed down from generation to generation.
You can get a classic pair in basic leather or get a fancy pair with decorations or metallics. The prices range from €40 to €50.
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15. Eat Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greek donuts. It’s a small puff pastry that is soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. I had one with sesame seeds once too. They are delicious.
The best place in Athens to get loukoumades is at the aptly named (and super highly rated) Lukumades. It is not far from O Thanasis so after eating your kebab you can have a donut for dessert!
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16. Watch the Sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Watching the sunset from Lycabettus Hill is one of the best things to do in Athens. Not only is the sunset stunning, but you get amazing views of Athens from here. You can also see the Acropolis all lit up for the evening.
Before you head out to enjoy the Athens nightlife, consider climbing Lycabettus for a nice sunset and maybe even a picnic.
There is a funicular to take you up and down if you don’t want to climb the hill. The cost for the funicular is €13 return or €10 for a one-way ticket. Click here to find it on the map.
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17. Join a Walking Food Tour
Not all the tours in Athens are about history. If you love Greek food like I do (and honestly, who doesn’t?!), check out this fun, informative, and tasty tour! It’s one of the highest-rated tours in Athens.
Meet up with your guide and discover some incredible street food vendors and local markets, all while walking off the food and learning about Athens and Greece along the way.
You’ll eat your way through bakeries, cheese and meat shops, fish market, coffee shops, and many stores offering world-famous Greek yogurt, organic olive oil, honey and wine.
Included in the tour are many tasty Greek delicacies, so come hungry! If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Athens, this is a great option – it’s also one of the best value experiences in the city. Find out more and reserve your spot here.
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18. Eat Gyros
You can’t come to Athens and not have a classic gyro. They are available almost everywhere and you can have fun trying to find the best one. A search for your favorite gyro is one of the best things to do in Athens for foodies.
I’ve eaten my fair share of gyro, which consists of chicken or lamb, french fries, onions, and tomatoes all wrapped up in soft pita bread. Sometimes you can order them open-faced on a plate.
They’re pretty big, so if you’ve done tons of walking this is the meal for you. Check out Kostas or Delicious Souvlaki for tasty gyros.
19. Stroll Through the Ancient Agora
Ancient Agora is a cemetery located right down the hill from the Acropolis. It was built as a marketplace after Athens became part of the Roman Empire in the 1st century.
When I was at the Roman Agora, it was very empty making a nice change from the crowds of the Acropolis. It’s a nice place to explore.
However, there is not much signage at the Ancient Agora so you may have to look up the history when you get there. The entrance fee has increased over the years and is now €20. Click here to find it on the map.
20. Explore the Athens Central Market
The Central Market (Varvakios Agora) is a classic outdoor market with shouting vendors and all the smells that come along with it.
I discovered it when I stayed in a hotel right in the market. The fruits in Greece look and smell amazing so even if you don’t buy anything it’s still a great place to visit.
The other thing to note is that most of the vendors don’t speak English, but you can point to items that you’re interested in and use sign language (or a translation app).
There’s also meat and fish if you’re in self-catering accommodation. I loved this market because it felt like such an authentically Greek experience. Click here for a fun market tour here which includes tastings and drinks.
Either way, a visit to the bustling market is one of the things you shouldn’t miss in Athens. Find it on the map, here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
If you’re an animal person, there are a few volunteer options for you to help out with abandoned and stray animals. Have a look at ZEIL, SGS or SCARS where you can assist with walking and caring for dogs and cats.
This may not be one of the more touristy things to do in Athens, but if you have some extra time, or if you would like to help out, it’s definitely one of the more rewarding activities in Athens.
22. Visit the Panagia Kapnikarea Church
Built in the 11th century, this is one of the oldest churches in Athens. The interesting thing about this Greek Orthodox church is that it’s surrounded by modern buildings! You can find it here on the map.
23. Join a Cooking Class with Rooftop Dinner
It’s always fun to join cooking classes around the world. You get to chat with the chef about the country and cuisine, and meet other travellers.
Learn how to make some traditional Greek food during this fun cooking class. You’ll make (and eat), a starter, main dish, salad, dessert, and local dips. Plus, wine is included.
Chat with the chef and your new friends while dining on tasty food that you prepared, and enjoying the view from the rooftop of the Acropolis – honestly, just the view itself is worth it! Find out more about this highly-rated cooking experience in Athens here.
24. Get Lost in The Athens City Center
The City Center of Athens is lively, bustling, and a bit rough around the edges, but it’s a fantastic place to get lost amongst the ancient sites.
By foot, you can easily explore the center by starting around the ancient sites of the Acropolis and Plaka, then walking to Monastiraki Square at the foot of the Acropolis, then continuing to Psirri district and Ermou street before finishing at Kolonaki.
Also, don’t miss the Ancient Greek National Gardens and strolling down some of the lesser-known interesting streets in the city center.
25. Visit The Panathenaic Stadium
You probably already know that Greece is home to the original Olympic Games – so you don’t want to miss the original stadium!
The Panathenaic Stadium was built in 330 BC and later expanded into a fully marble arena that hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896 and again in 2004.
Try to time your visit for the Athens Marathon, which follows he legendary 42 km route of Pheidippides. It would be incredible to watch runners cross the finish line in such a historic setting. Click here for the dates of the Marathon.
Day Trips from Athens
If you have more time in the city, have a look at these fun day trips.
1. Hydra Island
You can still visit a Greek island while on your trip to Athens!
Hydra is a small island that allows no cars. Most of the things to do are located right in the port including restaurants and shopping. There is even a swimming spot a five-minute walk away.
Hydra is about an hour’s ferry ride away if you take the fast ferry. The cost is about €80 return. You catch the ferry at Piraeus port. Spend the day in Hydra and be back in Athens for dinner. Search the ferry schedule and latest prices here.
Another option is to join a day tour that takes you to Hydra and includes a guide and 4 hours of free time on the island. Click here for details.
2. Sailing Trip
One of my favorite things to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek Islands. You can join a sailing trip that lasts all day, or take a half-day tour. You can even sail to some of the islands.
Most of these sails are on catamarans making it easier for the non-sailor to adjust their sea legs. This is one of the best ways to relax in Greece. Click here for a top-rated sailing trip (on an actual sailboat) that takes you to Agistri, Moni & Aegina.
Or, if you’d prefer a catamaran trip in Athens that includes food and drinks, and two stops for swimming, click here for details.
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3. Temple of Poseidon
The stunning ancient Temple of Poseidon sits at the Aegean Sea and was built in the 5th century. An inscription at the temple confirms that it was built for Poseidon.
You should try to be here early in the morning or for sunset. You can sometimes see several islands on a clear day from the temple.
There’s a bus from Athens from the Mavromateon Terminal and you can also get it from Syntagma Square. Look for the bus going to Sounio. The bus fare one-way is €6.90.
If you’d rather join a tour and not have to worry about transportation, check out this highly-rated half-day tour to Poseidon.
FAQs About Athens
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about visiting the city.
What Should I Avoid in Athens?
When it comes to areas of Athens, Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi, and Kolokotroni Squares have high crime rates and should be avoided at night, if not altogether. Make sure to keep an eye on your purse and pockets when visiting Athens as well as there are pickpockets around.
Joining a walking tour with a local when you first arrive in Athens is a great way to get a rundown of the city and the do’s and don’ts.
Can you Do Athens in 3 Days?
Yes! You can definitely visit Athens in a day, on two day trips, a weekend, or in 3 days. You’ll be able to cover all of the main highlights in just a couple of days, and on the third day, you can join a fun experience (cooking class, wine tasting), or take a day trip by ferry or bus.
Where to Stay in Athens
You’ll want to stay central when visiting Athens, and aim to be within walking distance of the Acropolis, Plaka and Syntagma Square. Whether you choose a hotel or apartment is up to you – some people prefer hotels with a simple room, while others prefer apartments with a living area and a kitchen.
This apartment has excellent reviews and views of the Acropolis, while this apartment is in Plaka and also has incredible views plus lots of natural light. For hotels, the Electra Metropolis is a very popular option and it includes breakfast, a rooftop bar, and excellent views.
What’s the best way of getting around Athens?
The best way to get around Athens is by foot using Google Maps. If you need to go outside of the main areas, you can catch a bus or grab a rideshare.
How much does it cost to enter the sites in Athens?
Entrance fees in Athens generally cost between €15-€20 for the most popular sites.
What is the best hotel with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Electra Hotel has the nicest rooftop pool in all of Athens with a great bar, stunning views, and plenty of areas to sit and relax.
What is the best thing to do in Athens on a rainy day?
The best thing to do in Athens on a rainy day is to visit one of the many museums, like The War Museum. Or check out one of the Byzantine churches, eat at some of the great restaurants with an amazing view, or visit during the Summer months when rain is less likely.
Now You Know What To Do in Athens
As you can see there are so many things to do in Athens. You can even make a theme for each day you are there – exploring all the food options, seeing all the archaeology and ancient archaeological sites around, and aimlessly exploring and seeing what you can discover! I always love spending time in Athens, and I’m sure you will as well.
See Also: The Ultimate Guide To Travelling Greece & The Greek Islands
