Athens: the vibrant capital of Greece, where ancient history meets modern culture in a captivating blend of old and new. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this bustling metropolis. Here’s the best things to see, do and eat in Athens, Greece:
Guide to Visiting Athens, Greece
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Top Things To Do in Athens, Greece
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art aficionado, Athens has something to offer everyone.
Acropolis
No visit to Athens is complete without a trip to the Acropolis, the ancient citadel perched high above the city. Climb the sacred hill to marvel at the magnificent Parthenon, a masterpiece of classical architecture dedicated to the goddess Athena. Admire the sweeping views of Athens below as you explore the ruins of other ancient structures, including the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.
Be sure to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. And DEFINITELY buy your ticket ahead of time or book with a skip-the-line tour!
Plaka
After descending from the Acropolis, wander through the charming streets of Plaka, one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleys lined with neoclassical buildings, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and quaint tavernas.
Browse the boutiques and souvenir shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. And don’t forget to stop for lunch at one of the many traditional Greek restaurants serving up delicious mezzes and grilled specialties.
National Archaeological Museum
Step back in time with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts. Marvel at treasures dating back thousands of years, including sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and frescoes.
Highlights include the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, and the bronze statue of Poseidon. Allow plenty of time to explore the museum’s vast halls and galleries!
Monastiraki Square and Flea Market
Experience the hustle and bustle of Athenian life at Monastiraki Square and the adjacent flea market. Browse through stalls piled high with antiques, handicrafts, vintage clothing, and souvenirs. Try to haggle with vendors for the best deals!
Sample street food favorites like souvlaki and loukoumades (Greek donuts) from the numerous food stalls, and soak up the lively atmosphere as street performers entertain the crowds with music and dance.
Mount Lycabettus
For panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding countryside, head to Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in the city. Hike to the top for a rewarding workout and breathtaking vistas, or take the funicular railway for a more leisurely ascent.
At the summit, visit the whitewashed chapel of Agios Georgios. You can also enjoy a drink or a meal at the hilltop cafe while watching the sunset over the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea.
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Delve into the rich religious and artistic heritage of Greece with a visit to the Byzantine and Christian Museum. Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, the museum’s collection includes religious artifacts, icons, frescoes, and mosaics spanning the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods. Explore the galleries to learn about the evolution of Byzantine art and culture, and admire exquisite works of craftsmanship from across the centuries.
Syntagma Square and Changing of the Guard
Experience a slice of modern Athens at Syntagma Square, the city’s central square and political hub. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony outside the Greek Parliament building, where evzones (presidential guards) dressed in traditional uniforms perform a choreographed ritual accompanied by a military band.
Join the crowds gathered in the square to witness this iconic Athenian tradition and capture some memorable photos.
Benaki Museum
Immerse yourself in Greek art and history at the Benaki Museum, a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Greek heritage. Explore the museum’s diverse collections, which span from prehistoric times to the modern era, and admire exquisite works of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles. Highlights include the collection of Greek costumes and the stunning mansion itself, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.
Ancient Agora
Step back in time at the Ancient Agora, the bustling marketplace and civic center of ancient Athens. Explore the ruins of ancient temples, stoas, and monuments, including the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in Greece.
Take a moment to reflect in the shade of the olive trees and imagine life in ancient times.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Marvel at the colossal ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in ancient Greece. Dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus, the temple’s towering columns are a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture.
Wander through the site and imagine the awe-inspiring sight of the temple in its heyday, surrounded by statues and offering altars.
Panathenaic Stadium
Experience the thrill of ancient athletics at the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Originally constructed for the Panathenaic Games in the 4th century BC, the stadium was later refurbished and hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
Walk in the footsteps of ancient athletes as you explore the stadium’s galleries and imagine the roar of the crowd during a chariot race or a wrestling match.
National Garden
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a leisurely stroll through the National Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Athens.
Wander along shady paths lined with palm trees, cypress groves, and vibrant flowers, and discover hidden treasures such as a duck pond, a botanical garden, and a small zoo. Take a seat on a bench and enjoy a moment of peace and quiet amid the greenery.
Museum of Cycladic Art
Discover the art and culture of the Cycladic islands with a visit to the Museum of Cycladic Art. The museum’s collection includes ancient artifacts, sculptures, and pottery from the Cycladic civilization, known for its distinctive minimalist style. Admire exquisite marble figurines and vessels dating back thousands of years, and gain insights into the island’s rich artistic heritage.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Experience the magic of ancient Greek theater at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a magnificent amphitheater nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Built in the 2nd century AD, the theater is still used today for concerts, ballets, and performances during the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.
Attend a show under the stars and marvel at the acoustics and atmosphere of this historic venue.
Athens Riviera
Escape the city for a day of sun, sand, and sea along the Athens Riviera, a stretch of coastline dotted with beaches, marinas, and seaside resorts. Relax on the sandy shores of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, or Sounion, and soak
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Best Places to Eat + Drink in
Highest Rated Restaurants:
Here is a list of the highest-rated + best restaurants in Athens, Greece:
- Varoulko Seaside – Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sea views at this upscale restaurant overlooking the Aegean Sea.
- Little Kook – whimsical and enchanting café known for its elaborate decorations, fairy-tale ambiance, and delicious desserts
- To Kati Allo – A cozy taverna serving traditional Greek dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Nolan – Contemporary Greek cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal flavors and creative presentation.
- Aleria – Elegant Mediterranean dining in a stylish setting, featuring a menu inspired by traditional Greek recipes.
- GB Roof Garden Restaurant – Indulge in gourmet cuisine and panoramic views of the Acropolis at this rooftop restaurant located in the Grande Bretagne Hotel.
- Kuzina – A trendy restaurant in the heart of Athens, offering modern Greek cuisine made with organic and sustainable ingredients.
- Spondi – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite French-inspired cuisine and impeccable service.
- Mavro Provato – Experience contemporary Greek dining at its finest, with a focus on organic, farm-to-table ingredients.
- Avocado – A vegan-friendly restaurant serving creative plant-based dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- To Kafeneio – A beloved neighborhood taverna serving classic Greek comfort food in a warm and inviting setting.
- Hytra – Elevate your dining experience with inventive Greek cuisine and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
- Psaras Taverna – Located in the heart of the historic Plaka neighborhood, this family-owned taverna serves up traditional Greek dishes with a side of warm hospitality.
- Strofi – Dine al fresco with stunning views of the Acropolis at this classic Greek restaurant known for its grilled meats and mezes.
- Dionysos Zonars – Enjoy fine dining with a view at this upscale restaurant situated beneath the Acropolis, offering a menu of Mediterranean and international dishes.
- Klimataria – A hidden gem tucked away in the streets of Plaka, serving authentic Greek cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting.
- Karamanlidika – A gastronomic deli and restaurant specializing in Greek cured meats, cheeses, and mezes, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Yi – A contemporary Greek restaurant offering a modern take on traditional flavors, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentation.
Best Bars + Pubs:
Here is a list of the best bars and pubs in Athens, Greece:
- Juan Rodriguez – lively cocktail bar with vintage-style decor that transforms from a relaxed breakfast spot to a buzzy hangout later in the night, making it a versatile place to experience Athens’ nightlife.
- The Clumsies – Known for its inventive cocktails and stylish ambiance, this award-winning bar offers a sophisticated drinking experience.
- Baba Au Rum – A cozy cocktail bar with a relaxed vibe, serving expertly crafted drinks made with premium spirits and house-made infusions. It’s also rated one of the top 50 bars in the world!
- Noel – Step into this festive bar decorated with Christmas lights year-round and enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, beers, and wines.
- TAF (The Art Foundation) – Housed in a restored neoclassical building, this artsy bar features a courtyard where you can sip cocktails surrounded by contemporary artwork.
- Heteroclito – A cozy wine bar specializing in natural and biodynamic wines from Greece and around the world, paired with delicious charcuterie and cheese boards.
- Six D.O.G.S. – A multi-purpose venue with a bar, courtyard, and performance space, hosting live music, DJ sets, and art exhibitions.
- Couleur Locale – Located in the vibrant Psirri neighborhood, this hip bar offers a laid-back atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and eclectic décor.
- Bios – A cultural center and bar housed in a former industrial building, hosting film screenings, art exhibitions, and live music performances.
- CV Distiller – A gin bar specializing in craft cocktails made with a variety of artisanal gins and unique botanical infusions.
- The 7 Jokers Coffee & Cocktail Bar – great place to start your night with its extensive cocktail menu and lively atmosphere.
- Ipitou The Bar – hidden gem with a relaxed vibe and a focus on local ingredients.
- Drunk Sinatra – bustling indoor-outdoor lounge offering craft cocktails & wine in a chic, eclectic atmosphere
From ancient monuments to contemporary museums, Athens offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of philosophers and warriors at the Acropolis, strolling through the picturesque streets of Plaka, or admiring priceless artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum, you’ll find endless opportunities for discovery and adventure in this historic city. See more on my Instagram stories.
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xx Chels
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