15 best things to do in Athens

If you’re thinking of taking a vacation in Greece, you many well be focussed on visiting the best islands in Greece to soak up sun on the best beaches in Greece. But before you book your trip, be sure to consider spending time in Athens. The city is packed with ancient wonders and districts that evoke the small-town charm of the Greek Islands, as revealed in this overview of the best things to do in Athens. 

1. Explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon

Arguably the best thing to do in Athens is exploring the Acropolis — the ancient citadel that looms large over the city. 

Crowned by the majestic Parthenon, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the ingenuity of classical Greek architecture. 

The site also includes the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea gateway. 

The panoramic views from the hill are breath-taking, especially at sunset, and offer a unique perspective on how the ancient and modern city coexist. 

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2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

History buffs wondering what to do in Athens will also want to take time to fully explore the Acropolis Museum 

Located just a short walk from the Acropolis itself, it houses almost 4000 artefacts excavated from the site, with glass floors revealing ancient ruins beneath your feet, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame dramatic views of the Parthenon. 

Highlights include the Caryatids from the Erechtheion and the frieze of the Parthenon

Interactive exhibits make it accessible if you’re visiting Greece with kids, and there’s a delightful rooftop café with panoramic views.

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3. Be enchanted by pretty Plaka

Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, is a charming maze of cobbled streets, pastel houses, and flowering balconies nestled beneath the Acropolis. 

Known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” it effortlessly blends ancient history with modern Greek life. 

Here, you’ll stumble upon neoclassical mansions, small Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins in an area that’s also a great place to shop for artisanal souvenirs, browse galleries and enjoy Greek dishes at traditional tavernas with outdoor seating. 

Visit in the morning for quiet charm, or come at dusk when bouzouki music echoes through the air. 

Little surprise, this is one of the best areas to stay in Athens — the area evokes some of the charm of the Greek islands.

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4. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square

The ceremonial changing of the Evzones guard at Syntagma Square in front of the Hellenic Parliament is one of Athens' most iconic sights. 

The Evzones — elite soldiers in traditional uniforms of pleated kilts (fustanella) and pom-pom shoes — guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 24/7. 

Every hour, on the hour, a small changing ceremony takes place, with 11am on Sundays seeing a fuller version, complete with marching band and military regalia. 

The square itself is a bustling hub, flanked by neoclassical hotels, shopping streets, and public transport. As such, it’s an excellent starting point for exploring central Athens.

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5. Discover the Ancient Agora

Once the heart of political, commercial, and social life in ancient Athens, the Ancient Agora offers a memorable glimpse into classical civilization. 

Nestled below the Acropolis, this sprawling archaeological site is where Socrates taught, laws were debated, and democracy was born. 

A standout structure is the Stoa of Attalos. Reconstructed in the 1950s, it now serves as a museum showcasing pottery, tools and sculptures from daily Athenian life. 

Nearby, you’ll find the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in Greece. Surrounded by lush gardens and olive trees, it’s peaceful, shaded retreat from the bustle of the city.

6. Climb Mount Lycabettus 

Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in central Athens, offers sweeping 360° views of the city.

Standing at 277 meters, it’s a favorite spot for watching the sunset or capturing cityscapes. 

You can reach the summit by foot via winding forested trails or opt for the funicular that departs from Kolonaki. 

At the top, you’ll find the whitewashed Chapel of St. George, a small café, and a fine-dining restaurant with an unforgettable view. 

7. Tour the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is Greece’s largest and most comprehensive museum. 

Housed in a grand neoclassical building, it holds over 11,000 exhibits spanning prehistoric times to late-antiquity. 

Highlights include the gold Mask of Agamemnon, the bronze Antikythera Mechanism (an ancient analog computer), exquisite Mycenaean jewelry, Cycladic figurines, and monumental sculptures from the Classical period. 

Though somewhat off the typical tourist track, this museum rewards those who seek a deeper understanding of Greece’s layered past. 

8. Enjoy sunset at the Temple of Poseidon

Located about 70 km southeast of Athens, the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion makes for a memorable half-day trip. 

Perched dramatically on a cliff above the Aegean Sea, this ancient sanctuary dedicated to the god of the sea dates back to the 5th century BCE. 

The white marble columns glow golden at sunset, creating one of the most romantic and breath-taking vistas in Greece. In fact, Byron was so captivated by the site that he carved his name into one of the columns. 

Visitors often combine the trip with a coastal drive along the scenic Athenian Riviera, passing beaches and fishing villages. 

While guided tours add historic context, it’s just as enjoyable with a picnic and camera in hand. 

9. Shop and snack in Monastiraki

Brimming with life, color and character, Monastiraki is Athens’ vibrant flea market district. Think narrow streets and lively squares crammed with antique shops, artisanal boutiques, and street vendors hawking everything from vintage books to handwoven rugs. 

The main square is overlooked by the Tzistarakis Mosque and has direct views of the Acropolis. 

Monastiraki is also a street food paradise — be sure to grab a freshly grilled souvlaki or loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts) while you wander. 

By night, rooftop bars with Acropolis views come alive with music and cocktails. 

10. Admire the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium (also known as Kallimarmaro) is the world’s only stadium made entirely of marble. 

Originally built in the 4th century BCE for the Panathenaic Games and rebuilt in the 19th century, it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. 

Today, it's a powerful symbol of athletic heritage and classical revival, with a small museum tunnel displaying torches from past Olympic Games and related memorabilia. 

Set near the National Gardens and Zappeion Hall, it’s easy to pair with other central sites. 

11. Take a Stroll in the National Garden

Adjacent to Syntagma Square, and commissioned by Queen Amalia in the 19th century, the National Garden of Athens is a lush 38-acre park features of paths, duck ponds, shaded benches, and over 500 species of plants and trees from around the world. 

It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll between visiting the Panathenaic Stadium. 

12. Roam the Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds

Just a short walk from the Ancient Agora lies the Roman Agora. Built in the 1st century BCE, this public square once bustled with traders, officials, and philosophers. 

Its most iconic feature is the Tower of the Winds — an octagonal marble structure that functioned as a sundial, weather vane, and water clock.

Though smaller and less frequented than the Acropolis, the Roman Agora offers a more tranquil exploration of ancient ruins. 

13. Explore the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

Set in a stately neoclassical mansion near the National Garden, the Benaki Museum offers a beautifully curated journey through Greek history and culture. 

From prehistoric relics and Byzantine icons to Ottoman textiles and folk costumes, the collection spans the full sweep of Hellenic civilization. 

Highlights include intricate religious art, traditional crafts, and unique items from Greece’s War of Independence. 

After exploring, visit the rooftop café for lovely city views and Mediterranean fare. 

14. Experience Athens’ Central Market 

For a true taste of local life, head to Varvakios Agora, Athens’ central food market. 

Located on Athinas Street, it’s a lively place to observe and sample the ingredients that define Greek cuisine, and to try some of the the best food in Greece.

Try Greek olives, cheeses, or herbs, or grab a seat at one of the traditional tavernas tucked behind the stalls for dishes like grilled sardines or lamb stew. 

15. Enjoy Psiri’s café culture and nightlife 

Once a gritty industrial quarter, Psiri has transformed into one of Athens’ trendiest neighborhoods.

Its labyrinth of streets is now home to art galleries, quirky boutiques, and an eclectic array of eateries and bars. 

By day, explore colorful street art and sip Greek coffee in cafés spilling onto the pavement. 

By night, Psiri comes alive with live music — rebetiko, jazz and indie — playing in cozy venues and open-air courtyards. 

It’s also a hotspot for meze dishes, and craft cocktails with a local twist. 

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