Athens has to be one of the most iconic destinations I have visited! It’s steeped in ancient history, full of delicious food and endless things to see and do. I’m a history buff, so seeing the imposing Acropolis for the first time was an incredible feeling!
Whether you’re a fan of ancient history or not, Athens is a fun city to visit. With its gritty ambiance and stark contrast between modern and ancient, Athens is a unique European capital.
This list will help you decide what to do in Athens while you’re here, no matter how long your visit is. I will share a mix of history, food, shopping, nightlife and unique things to do in Athens. I love this city, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.
I’ve been to Athens several times and will probably go again this year! If you are arriving by plane, Athens will likely be your first port of call in Greece. Spend a few days enjoying the city before heading to one of the Dream Greek Islands.
Here is my list of the best things to do in Athens, Greece.
1. Climb the Acropolis
The first time I saw the Acropolis, I was speechless. No matter how many ancient sites you’ve seen, seeing the Acropolis towering over the city is pretty special!
To be clear, the The Acropolis is the entire city on the hill – not a particular ruin. It is dedicated to the goddess Athena and a visit to the 5th century Acropolis is by far the most popular thing to do in Athens.
Of course, that means everyone wants to go, including cruise ship visitors. My advice is to arrive early. The archaeological site itself opens at 8:00 a.m. and cruise ship passengers arrive around 10:00 a.m.
Most people visit the Acropolis to see the Parthenon but there are several other things to see on the hill, including the ErechtheionTHE Arrhephorionand the Temple of Athena Nike.
From the Acropolis you can see a large part of Athens and all the way to the sea. The entrance fee is €30.
To learn more about all the important sites and incredible history, I suggest take a walking tour. The tour will also take you to the museum (below).
There are different types of tours you can do, but Click here to learn more about a popular skip-the-line tour. Plus, you can book now and pay later, which is great because only a certain number of people are allowed to visit the Acropolis each day. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour. This is great if you are not yet completely sure of your plans.
2. Visit the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is one of the most beautiful museums I have ever visited. I loved my experience here! It is filled with natural light, which highlights the artifacts well.
Here you can get a close look at the replicas of the Parthenon frieze on display and many other works of ancient Greek art. The café’s balcony also offers great views of the ancient ruins of Athens. You can learn more about the Acropolis on my blog.
Whether before or after your visit to the Acropolis, you must visit the Acropolis Museum – check if your guided tour includes the museum, most do.
It is not far from the entrance to the Acropolis and the entrance fee is €20. BUT, if you visit on one of these days, it’s free: March 6 (Melina Mercouri Day), March 25 (National Day), May 18 (International Museum Day), October 28 (National Day).
The queues here can be huge, to avoid the queue buy your ticket in advance here. Alternatively, you can purchase an all-inclusive ticket to the museum and the Acropolis. here.
3. See Hadrian’s Library
This library is not a library in the sense in which we know it today, it was a place of study, not a place to lend books.
In ancient Greece, Hadrian’s library was built around 132 AD to house documents and reading rooms. There isn’t much left but you can clearly see the layout of the library and the signage is excellent.
The entrance fee is €4 ($4.70). Hadrian’s Library is a small museum located in the Monastiraki district, 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 during my last trip to Athens. Every holiday season, it is decorated inside and outside the restaurant. When I was there, it was decorated for Halloween.
Little KooK is primarily a dessert cafe, but the main attraction is the decorations. It’s one of the fanciest places I’ve ever been, and it’s probably the most Instagrammable place in Athens, other than the Acropolis! Click here to find it on the map.
💡 Pro tip: If you are in Athens for a while, you can get yourself a MegaPass Athens City Pass. With it, you can skip the hassle and head straight to the highlights: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the hop-on hop-off bus, audio guides and much more. Everything is included, at no extra cost. One pass to fully experience Athens.
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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 walking around the Plaka neighborhood and taking photos of the artwork. And yes, street art in Athens ranges from classic graffiti to incredible works.
Although 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 history behind the art. This tour takes you to 5 nice neighborhoods less 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 most unique things to do in Athens.
6. Go to bars
For such a fun city, it’s no surprise that one of the best things to do in Athens in the evening is hit the bars. Check Psiri (Psyrri) for the best overall nightlife, Kolonaki for more chic evenings, and Gazi for clubs/parties.
You can do like me and wander around, stopping at places that seem busy, or if you want to meet people and learn a little more about the city, you can join a food and drink tour.
With this local and fun experienceyou will explore 3 different neighborhoods of Athens and visit 3 different bars there, while enjoying drinks, food and good conversations with new friends.
A bar tour is one of the best ways to enjoy Athens nightlife, especially if you’re making a quick trip.
All tables are reserved in advance, so you won’t have to queue at all. If you’re looking for cool things to do in Athens at night, this is a good option. Learn more here.
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7. Eat the best yogurts and souvlaki
Thanasis is one of the most popular places to eat plate. It’s so popular that even Greeks eat there. The best thing to eat is Yogurtlu, which is a beef skewer covered in yogurt on a bed of pita bread.
The Yogurtlu is big enough to share with someone and it will cost you around €15. The people at O Thanasis are friendly and not intrusive.
I think the souvlaki is also one of the best in town. If you can’t make it, you can also get delicious souvlaki at many of the city’s flea markets and markets.
8. Destroy items at the Limba Rage room
Are you feeling a little stressed? Need to get angry? Limba Rage Room is the perfect place to do just that.
You buy a package (which can include plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses), and you smash them! It’s a great way to reduce stress and one of the most unique things to do in Athens.
There are a variety of packages to suit all budgets. They vary 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 Greek coffee
I love getting my Freddo fix in Greece! Enjoying 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 Freddo Espresso.
The Frappe doesn’t look like a Starbucks Frappe, but instead is made with instant coffee, water, and sugar (if you like).
The Freddo cappuccino is an espresso topped with frothy milk (which is my favorite).
Espresso Freddo is simply espresso swirled over ice. All of these coffees contain a high dose of caffeine, but since they are all served cold, they are excellent on a hot day in Athens.
Coffee culture in Greece is a very big deal. Not only do locals drink coffee (hot or cold) several times a day, but according to legend, your fortune can be predicted by reading the leftover coffee left at the bottom of your cup.
Next time you finish drinking your coffee in Athens, be sure to ask someone to show you how to tell your fortune.
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10. Go shopping at Plaka
THE plate is a neighborhood located below the Acropolis with charming streets and shops. Walking around here is a great way to spend a few hours. Much of this area has been closed to traffic, although delivery trucks are still allowed to pass and some streets are open.
Chain and more upscale stores can be found on Ermou Street, where you’ll find stores like Sephora and H&M.
Then there are tourist shops, a flea market and low-end stores, further past Monastiraki Square. There you will find souvenirs that you want rez maybe take home for your friends and family. Plus, it’s a great place 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 changing of the guard ceremony. The military guards change every hour, but Sunday at 11:00 a.m.they present an elaborate show with traditional uniforms.
The changing of the guard takes place on Syntagma Square, at the Parliament. The best place to see it 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 Evezone. Don’t miss it!
13. Visit Monastiraki Square
If you are sitting Monastiraki Square long enough, I swear you’ll see everyone passing by in Athens. It’s the perfect place to watch tourists and locals interact.
It is also a historic site with a 9th-century church, an 18th-century mosque, and in the metro station are antiquities found during the construction of the first metro station.
It is one of the liveliest places in Athens and relaxing there 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’re shopping in Plaka, be sure to stop at Pantelis Melissions The poet Sandalmaker for a pair of custom-made Greek sandals. This store has existed since 1920 and has been passed down from generation to generation.
You can get a classic pair in basic leather or a fancy pair with embellishments or metals. Prices vary from €40 to €50.
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15. Eat Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greek donuts. It is a small puff pastry soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. I also had one with sesame seeds once. They are delicious.
The best place in Athens to buy loukoumades is at the aptly named (and highly rated) Lukumades. It’s 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 on Lycabettus Hill
Watching the sunset from Lycabettus Hill is one of the best things to do in Athens. Not only is the sunset beautiful, but you also get amazing views of Athens from here. You will also be able to see the Acropolis all lit up for the evening.
Before heading out to enjoy Athens’ nightlife, consider climbing Mount Lycabettus to admire a magnificent sunset and perhaps even a picnic.
There is a funicular to go up and down if you don’t want to go up the hill. The cost of the funicular is €13 for a return trip or €10 for a one-way ticket. Click here to find it on the map.
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17. Join a food walking tour
Not every visit to Athens is about history. If you love Greek food like me (and honestly, who doesn’t?!), check out this fun, informative and tasty tour! It is one of the top rated tours in Athens.
Meet up with your guide and discover incredible local street vendors and markets, all while enjoying food and learning about Athens and Greece along the way.
You’ll eat your way through bakeries, cheese and butcher shops, a fish market, cafes and plenty of shops offering world-famous Greek yogurt, organic olive oil, honey and wine.
The tour includes a lot delicious Greek specialties, so come hungry! If you’re looking for non-touristy activities 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 place here.
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18. Eat gyros
You can’t come to Athens without having a classic gyroscope. They are available almost everywhere and you can have fun trying to find the best one. Searching for your favorite gyro is one of the best things to do in Athens for foodies.
I’ve eaten my fair share of gyros, which consist of chicken or lamb, fries, onions and tomatoes, all wrapped in soft pita bread. Sometimes you can order them open on a plate.
They’re pretty big, so if you’ve been walking a lot, this is the meal for you. Check it costs Or Delicious Souvlaki for tasty gyros.
19. Walk through the Ancient Agora
Ancient Agora is a cemetery located just down the hill from the Acropolis. It was built as a market after Athens became part of the Roman Empire in the 1st century.
When I was at the Roman Agora, it was very empty, which was a nice change from the crowds at the Acropolis. It’s a beautiful place to explore.
However, there isn’t much signage at the Ancient Agora, so you may need to look up the history once you get there. The entry price has increased over the years and now stands at €20. Click here to find it on the map.
20. Explore Athens Central Market
The central market (Varvakios Agora) is a classic open-air market with noisy vendors and all the smells that come with it.
I discovered it during a stay in a hotel in the middle of the market. The fruit in Greece looks and smells 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 sellers don’t speak English, but you can point out items you’re interested in and use sign language (or a translation app).
There is also meat and fish if you are in self-catering accommodation. I loved this market because it felt like an authentically Greek experience. Click here for a fun market tour that includes tastings and drinks.
Either way, a visit to the bustling market is one of the things not to miss in Athens. Find it on the map, here.
21. Volunteer in Athens
If you’re an animal lover, there are a few volunteer options to help with abandoned and stray animals. Take a look at NAVIGATE, GV Or SCARS where you can help walk and care for dogs and cats.
This may not be one of the most touristy things to do in Athens, but if you have a little extra time or want to help, it’s definitely one of the most rewarding activities in Athens.
22. Visit Panagia Kapnikarea Church
Built in the 11th century, it is one of the oldest churches in Athens. What’s interesting about this Greek Orthodox church is that it is surrounded by modern buildings! You can find it here on the map.
23. Join a cooking class with rooftop dining
It’s always fun to take part in cooking classes around the world. You will be able to chat with the chef of the country and cuisine and meet other travelers.
Learn to prepare traditional Greek dishes during this fun cooking class. You’ll prepare (and eat) an appetizer, main course, salad, dessert, and local dips. Additionally, wine is included.
Chat with the chef and your new friends while enjoying tasty dishes you’ve prepared and enjoying the view from the roof of the Acropolis – honestly, the view itself is worth it! Learn more about this popular dining experience in Athens here.
24. Get lost in downtown Athens
Downtown Athens is busy, bustling and a little hilly, but it’s a fantastic place to get lost among the ancient sites.
On foot, you can easily discover the center starting with the ancient sites of the Acropolis and Plakathen I walk towards Monastiraki Square at the foot of the Acropolis, then continuing towards Psiri neighborhood and Ermou street before ending up Kolonaki.
Also don’t miss the National Gardens of Ancient Greece and stroll through some of the lesser-known interesting streets of the city center.
25. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium
You probably already know that Greece hosted the first Olympic Games – so you don’t want to miss the original stadium!
The Panathenaic Stadium was built in 330 BC, then expanded into an all-marble arena that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and again in 2004.
Try to plan your visit for the Athens Marathon, which follows the legendary 42km Pheidippides course. It would be incredible to see 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, check out these fun day trips.
1. Hydra Island
You can always visit a Greek island during your trip to Athens!
Hydra is a small island that does not allow any cars. Most things to do are right in the harbor, including restaurants and shops. There’s even a swimming spot a five-minute walk away.
Hydra is about an hour away by ferry if you take the fast ferry. The cost is around €80 return. You take the ferry to the port of Piraeus. Spend the day in Hydra and return to Athens for dinner. Search the ferry schedule and latest prices here.
Another option is to join a day tour which takes you to Hydra and includes a guide and 4 hours of free time on the island. Click here for more details.
2. Sailing trip
One of my favorites things to do in Greece is to sail to the Greek islands. You can join a full-day sailing tour or take a half-day tour. You can even sail to some islands.
Most of these sails are installed on catamarans, making it easier for non-sailors to adjust their sea legs. This is one of the best ways to relax in Greece. Click here for a top-notch sailing trip (on a real sailboat) that takes you to Agistri, Moni and Aegina.
Or, if you prefer an Athens catamaran tour that includes food and drinks, plus two swimming stops, Click here for more details.
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3. Temple of Poseidon
The magnificent ancient temple of Poseidon sits on the shores of the Aegean Sea and was built in the 5th century. An inscription on the temple confirms that it was built for Poseidon.
You should try to be here early in the morning or at sunset. You can sometimes see several islands on a clear day from the temple.
There is a bus from Athens from Mavromateon Terminal and you can also take it from Syntagma Square. Look for the bus that goes to Sounion. The one-way bus fare is €6.90.
If you prefer join a tour and don’t worry about transportation, consult this popular half-day tour to Poseidon.
FAQs about Athens
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about visiting the city.
What should I avoid in Athens?
When it comes to neighborhoods in Athens, Omonia, Exarcheia, Vathi and Kolokotroni squares have high crime rates and should be avoided at night, if not completely. Make sure to keep an eye on your purse and pockets when visiting Athens, as there are pickpockets around.
Taking a walking tour with a local when you arrive in Athens is a great way to get an overview of the city and the do’s and don’ts.
Can you do Athens in 3 days?
Yes! You can certainly visit Athens in one day, two day trips, a weekend, or in 3 days. You can cover all the main highlights in just a few days, and on the third day you can take part in a fun experience (cooking class, wine tasting), or take a ferry day trip or by bus.
Where to stay in Athens
You’ll want to stay central when visiting Athens and be within walking distance of the Acropolis, Plaka, and Syntagma Square. It’s up to you whether you choose a hotel or an apartment: some people prefer hotels with a single bedroom, while others prefer apartments with a living room and kitchen.
This apartment has excellent reviews and views of the Acropolis, while this apartment is in Plaka and also offers incredible views and lots of natural light. For hotels, the Metropolis of Electra is a very popular option and includes breakfast, a rooftop bar, and excellent views.
What is the best way to get around Athens?
The best way to get around Athens is on foot using Google Maps. If you need to go out of the main areas, you can take a bus or carpool.
How much does entry cost to Athens sites?
Entrance fees to Athens generally cost between €15 and €20 for the most popular sites.
What is the best hotel with a rooftop pool in Athens?
Hotel Electra has the most beautiful rooftop pool in all of Athens with a great bar, stunning views and plenty of space 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, such as the War Museum. Or visit one of the Byzantine churches, eat at some of the excellent restaurants with stunning views, 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 create a theme for each day of your stay: explore all the dining options, visit all the archeology and ancient archaeological sites nearby, and aimlessly explore and see what you can discover! I always love spending time in Athens, and I’m sure you do too.
See also: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling Greece and the Greek Islands
