18 Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, brims with timeless wonders and lively modern attractions that draw millions each year. This ancient city, with its blend of deep history and vibrant urban life, offers travelers an incredible range of experiences.

Whether exploring iconic landmarks or uncovering hidden gems, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Athens. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old culture while enjoying the warmth and energy of its bustling streets and local charm.

Acropolis and Parthenon

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The Acropolis stands as a majestic testament to ancient Greece, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture and historical significance. Perched high above Athens, the Acropolis offers breathtaking views of the city below. Exploring the Parthenon, the crowning jewel of the Acropolis, is an unforgettable experience. Walk among the ancient columns and imagine life in ancient times.

This iconic temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, captivates with its commanding presence and intricate details. Visitors should consider an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid crowds. Take time to soak in the aura of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Picture-perfect moments abound, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Acropolis Museum

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The Acropolis Museum in Athens is a haven of ancient wonder. Visitors can explore three stunning floors filled with precious artifacts from Greece’s iconic past. Each exhibit tells a story, from the famous “Peplos Kore” statue to the mesmerizing “Kritios Boy.”

Guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Acropolis from the museum’s glass-walled galleries. It’s an experience that combines art, history, and architecture. The museum’s sleek, modern design complements the ancient wonders on display, creating a captivating journey through time. Exploring its artifacts, dioramas, and interactive displays is both educational and engaging, making it a must-see destination for any traveler to Athens.

Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Ancient Agora is a vibrant pulse of Athens’ past. Visitors wander through its expansive ruins, capturing glimpses of ancient Greek life. It’s easy to imagine bustling markets and lively debates that once filled the space.

Nearby, the Temple of Hephaestus stands proudly, its columns miraculously intact. This temple is a testament to Athens’ rich heritage and architectural brilliance. Exploring its grounds offers a unique chance to step back in time. The serene gardens surrounding these historical gems provide a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. Relax under the shade of ancient olive trees and let your imagination drift to another era.

Roman Agora

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Standing as a testament to Athens’ vibrant history, the Roman Agora offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can wander around the large open courtyard where ancient Athenians once gathered. The Tower of the Winds, an ancient clocktower, is a highlight not to miss. It provides a lovely spot for photography with its intricate carvings.

Discover the remnants of ancient shops and stalls, inviting you to imagine the bustling marketplace that once thrived here. A visit here offers both a journey into history and a relaxing stroll. It’s an ideal spot for those who love to explore ruins and envision the lives of those who walked these paths centuries ago.

Hadrian’s Library

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Hadrian’s Library is a must-see in Athens. Built by Roman Emperor Hadrian, it stands as a testament to ancient opulence. Visitors can wander through grand courtyards filled with ancient columns, offering a glimpse into the library’s rich past. The mix of Roman and Greek architecture creates an enchanting atmosphere for all who explore its majestic ruins.

As they stroll around, they can almost hear the whispers of scholars who once studied there. Each stone tells a story, adding to the allure of this historic site. Photographers find endless inspiration here, capturing the romance of weathered stones and sunlight. Hadrian’s Library invites everyone to step back in time and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome in the heart of Athens.

National Archaeological Museum

Our Rating: 9.5/10

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens offers history and culture. Visitors can admire the intricate details of ancient sculptures like the Kore and Kouros. These statues offer a glimpse into the artistry of ancient Greece. Another highlight is the imposing bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon. This masterpiece captures the strength and power of the gods, leaving visitors in awe.

A family favorite is the Jockey of Artemision, a dynamic bronze statue that showcases a young jockey riding a horse. This exhibit brings an ancient horse race to life, thrilling viewers with its energy and motion. The museum promises an unforgettable journey through ancient Greek wonders.

Monastiraki Flea Market

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Monastiraki Flea Market is a vibrant and bustling space in the heart of Athens. Shoppers can explore narrow streets filled with antique treasures, quirky souvenirs, and unique vintage clothing. Wander through stalls and find everything from records to handmade jewelry.

Visitors are immersed in a lively atmosphere where retailers greet them warmly. Aside from shopping, the area is renowned for its proximity to stunning ancient ruins. The market is near Monastiraki Square and offers a peek into both modern hustle and historical charm. Cafe-lined streets invite guests to relax and enjoy a Greek coffee or tasty local snack, adding to the market’s rich and inviting experience.

Temple of Athena Nike

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Temple of Athena Nike is a petite gem at the Acropolis of Athens. Built in honor of the goddess of victory, it offers a window into Greece’s rich past. Visitors can admire the exquisite details carved into the temple’s stone. Exploring this site feels like stepping back in time.

Guests can capture stunning photographs from the nearby viewpoint, with the temple’s beauty and Athens’ skyline in the background. The view is especially breathtaking at sunset when the city lights up with warm hues. Visiting this historic temple is a must for anyone interested in history and architecture. It offers a unique glimpse into ancient Greek culture and artistry.

Legendary Olive Tree of Pandroseion

Our Rating: 8.9/10

The Legendary Olive Tree at the Pandroseion has a deep connection to Athens’ history and mythology. This tree is believed to be a descendant of the original olive tree gifted by Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Visitors will find it nestled within the sacred grounds of the Acropolis.

Exploring this area, visitors can soak up the atmosphere and contemplate the legacy of ancient Greece. The olive tree stands as a living testament to the city’s rich past. Visitors can also snap photos of this historic tree and relax in the nearby spots. As you immerse yourself in the ancient lore, the timeless spirit of Athens envelops you.

National Garden of Athens

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The National Garden of Athens is a peaceful haven in the heart of the city. With over 7,000 trees and 40,000 bushes, it offers a lush escape from the busy urban life. Visitors can enjoy walking along shaded paths, exploring vibrant flora, and discovering unique plant species from around the world.

The garden is perfect for families and solo travelers alike. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or simply relaxing with a book. There’s even a small zoo and a children’s playground, providing fun for all ages. Wander through this green oasis and immerse yourself in nature’s charm, all while being steps away from Athens’ historic landmarks.

Benaki Museum

Our Rating: 8.9/10

The Benaki Museum in Athens showcases the rich Greek culture through the ages. Visitors can admire a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. Each exhibit offers a window into the diverse history that has shaped Greece. Exploring the museum is like walking through a live timeline.

Fascinating art pieces and historical objects capture the spirit and evolution of Greek society. Interactive displays and well-curated exhibits keep the experience engaging for all ages. A visit can be both educational and inspiring, unfolding stories from mythology, art, and daily life. It’s a perfect spot for those eager to dive into the heart of Greek culture, artfully presented in a single location.

Cycladic Museum

Our Rating: 9.3/10

The Museum of Cycladic Art is a haven of ancient history. Visitors can wander through fascinating exhibits featuring over 800 objects, showcasing the culture of Early Cycladic civilization. The collection includes everything from marble figurines to intricate pottery pieces.

In the heart of Athens, this museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the beginnings of Greek art. Guests are encouraged to discover the stories behind each artifact and witness the evolution of early Greek creative expression. With its dynamic displays, the Cycladic Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Aegean.

Mount Lycabettus

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Mount Lycabettus, a stunning peak, offers unforgettable experiences. Visitors can choose to trek up the lush, pine-forested paths or take the convenient funicular tramway for a relaxing ascent. At the top, expansive views of the city await, a rewarding sight after the journey.

As the sun sets, the atmosphere transforms. The Acropolis and other ancient landmarks light up, creating a magical panorama. For those feeling a bit indulgent, the hilltop restaurant serves exquisite meals, making it a perfect spot for a delightful dinner with a view. The unique charm of Mount Lycabettus makes it a must-see for anyone exploring Athens.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Nestled against the slopes of the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a breathtaking open-air theater. This ancient site comes alive with world-class performances ranging from classical to modern music. Visitors can embrace the thrill of attending a concert under the stars. The acoustics are a marvel, providing a rich experience unrivaled by many modern venues.

You can imagine the grandeur of the past as you sit where audiences did thousands of years ago. The Odeon is included in the Acropolis ticket, allowing seamless exploration of Athens’s iconic landmarks. Its historical significance and cultural vibrancy make it a must-see for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in Greek heritage.

Ancient Theatre of Dionysus

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Nestled on the southern slope of the Acropolis, the Ancient Theatre of Dionysus is a must-see. As the first theatre in the world, it offers a glimpse into the birthplace of drama. Visitors can almost hear the echoes of ancient performances by famous playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides.

Roaming through its grand seats, one can admire the architectural brilliance that once accommodated 15,000 spectators. The open-air nature of the theatre offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, combining the beauty of history with nature. Photographers and history buffs alike will find this site enchanting, where every corner holds a story etched in stone.

Karamanlidika

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Karamanlidika offers a savory journey through Greece’s culinary past. Housed in a beautifully restored neoclassical building, this delicatessen-meets-taverna entices with hanging cured meats, shelves of local cheeses, and the sizzle of freshly grilled sausages. The aroma alone is an irresistible prelude to an unforgettable meze feast.

Inside, the atmosphere hums with warmth and authenticity. Plates arrive adorned with spicy soutzouki, tangy pastourma, and silky cheeses—all served with rustic bread and a drizzle of golden olive oil. Every bite feels like a passage through generations of Greek and Anatolian flavors. Friendly staff and old-world charm make Karamanlidika not just a meal, but an experience.

Byzantine and Christian Museum

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens offers history through its collection of art and artifacts. With over 25,000 items spanning from the 3rd century AD, visitors can immerse themselves in ancient mosaics, striking frescoes, and delicate textiles.

This museum is perfect for those curious about the Byzantine era. Each room invites exploration and sparks curiosity, as different aspects of Byzantine culture unfold. Engage with history on a personal level as you stroll through galleries filled with icons and sculptures. This museum promises a journey through time, connecting you with the vibrant stories of Greece’s past.

Panathenaic Stadium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Panathenaic Stadium is a must-visit for history buffs and sports fans alike. In the heart of Athens, this iconic stadium shines with its white marble stands and sweeping curves. Visitors can experience the thrill of racing against friends on the very track used in ancient times.

It’s an unforgettable way to connect with history while having fun. There’s also an option to join guided tours that dive into the stadium’s rich heritage. The atmosphere is lively, with the past brought vividly to life. The Panathenaic Stadium is not just a place to see but a place to feel the echoes of ancient cheers.

Athens seamlessly blends its ancient wonders with vibrant modern culture, offering experiences that span centuries in a single day. From exploring iconic ruins like the Acropolis to enjoying lively street art and authentic Greek cuisine, the city invites you to connect with both its legendary past and dynamic present.