15 Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Kalimera, Athína! The final stop of our Greece trip, after exploring the pristine island of Corfu and the stunning beaches of Lefkada, took us to the Greek capital. While I had visited Athens years ago on a school trip, I was excited to return and experience the city again as an adult, with a fresh perspective and a much deeper appreciation for its history, culture and everyday life.

As the birthplace of democracy and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Athens has been shaping history for more than 3,000 years. Yet, despite its immense historical significance, it doesn’t feel like an open-air museum. Instead, it’s vibrant and full of life, where ancient ruins stand alongside bustling cafés, lively squares and colorful neighborhoods.

We spent two days exploring the city and quickly realized there was far more to see than we expected. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or using Athens as a gateway to the Greek islands, this guide covers the best things to do in Athens. As a photographer, I’ve also included some of my favorite photo spots throughout the city.

Your trip is coming soon and you still haven’t booked anything? I got you covered! Here my top picks of hotels, tours, activities, etc!
– Best Tours and Experiences in Athens:
・Acropolis & Museum ticket
・Acropolis & Agora guided tour
・Saronic Islands day tour (Hydra, Poros, and Aegina)
・Meteora Monasteries day trip
・Athens Greek Food tour
・Cape Sounion & Poseidon Temple sunset half day tour
– Best Places to Stay in Corfu:
・⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ St George Lycabettus (great hotel in Kolonaki, Athens)
・Pallineon House (great budget options in Petralona, Athens)
・Eternal Acropolis Suite (great budget options in Psyri, Athens)

15 Things to do in Athens

Despite being the capital of Greece and it’s largest city, it feels much more manageable than other European capitals. Most of the main attractions are concentrated around the historic center, making it easy to explore on foot. While two days were enough for us to see the city’s highlights, from the Acropolis to its charming neighborhoods and sunset viewpoints, you could easily spend longer diving deeper into its museums, local food shops and vibrant atmosphere.

1. The Acropolis

The Acropolis is definitely the number one best things to do in Athens! It is the most iconic landmark in the city and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Perched high on a rocky hill above the city, it has been the symbol of Athens for over 2,000 years and remains the beating heart of its ancient history.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis is home to some of Greece’s most remarkable monuments and offers incredible views over Athens, especially in the late afternoon when the light turns golden.

Tip: Allow at least 2 hours to explore the site properly. For the best light for your photos, visit a few hours before closing when the sun is softer and the temperature is cooler (and it is also slightly less crowded).
Tip 2: Buy your tickets in advance as it gets sold out very fast! I recommend at least a Acropolis & Museum ticket but if you want more knowledge, combine it with a Acropolis & Agora guided tour ticket.

Theatre of Dionysus

You’ll start your Acropole visit with the Theatre of Dionysus. Built in the 6th century BC, it is considered the birthplace of Greek drama. This is where the works of playwrights such as Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes were first performed. At its peak, the theatre could accommodate around 17,000 spectators.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Then as you go up the hill, you’ll find yourself gazing at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, one of the most impressive structures on the Acropolis slopes. This Roman theater was built in AD 161 by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife. Remarkably, it is still used today for concerts and performances during the Athens Festival (so you might find it with lights and a stage like us).

Parthenon

No visit to Athens would be complete without seeing the Parthenon.

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of the city, this temple was completed in 432 BC and remains one of the greatest achievements of classical Greek architecture. Despite earthquakes, wars, and centuries of damage, it still dominates the skyline more than 2,400 years later.

Erechteion

The Erechtheion is instantly recognizable thanks to its famous Caryatids, six sculpted female figures that serve as columns supporting the porch.

According to mythology, this site marked the contest between Athena and Poseidon for control of Athens.

Temple of Athena Nike

Perched on the edge of the Acropolis, this small temple was dedicated to Athena as the goddess of victory. Despite its modest size, its location offers beautiful views over Athens.

2. Filopappou Hill

If you’re looking for the best overall view of the Acropolis, Filopappou Hill is hard to beat.

Named after the monument dedicated to the Roman prince Gaius Julius Antiochus Philopappos, the hill provides a stunning panoramic perspective over both the Acropolis and the city.

For photographers, this was probably my favorite viewpoint in Athens.

3. Sunset from Areopagus Hill

Located directly below the Acropolis, Areopagus Hill was once the site of Athens’ highest court. Today, it offers one of the most beautiful views over the Parthenon. When we visited, the sky was a bit overcast but Hector suggested we wait a little longer, and a few minutes later we were rewarded with a beautiful sunset lighting up the Acropolis.

4. National Garden

Created in the 19th century by Queen Amalia, the National Garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. Shaded paths, jasmin flowers everywhere, ponds, and hidden corners make it a lovely place for a stroll.

5. The Evzones

Outside the Greek Parliament next to the National Garden, you’ll find the Evzones, Greece’s elite ceremonial guards. Their famous synchronized march and traditional uniform make the changing of the guard one of the most unique traditions in Athens.

6. Panathenaic Stadium

Built entirely from marble, the Panathenaic Stadium is unique in the world.

The stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and stands on the site of an ancient stadium used for the Panathenaic Games over 2,000 years ago.

7. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, the Temple of Olympian Zeus originally featured 104 massive Corinthian columns. Only a handful remain today, but they still give an idea of the monument’s former grandeur.

To be completely honest, this was one of the most disappointing sites we visited in Athens. During our visit, much of the area was under restoration, with scaffolding covering significant portions of the monument. Considering the entrance fee (20€), we didn’t feel it offered the same value as other archaeological sites in the city, especially the Acropolis.

8. Plaka neighborhood

Known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” Plaka is Athens’ oldest district.

Its narrow streets, colorful houses, bougainvillea-covered facades, and traditional tavernas make it one of the most charming areas to explore on foot.

9. Anafiotika

Hidden on the slopes of the Acropolis, Anafiotika is a small neighborhood of whitewashed houses built by workers from the island of Anafi in the 19th century.

To be honest, this was one of the few places in Athens that felt a little overrated to me. While it’s charming, I found it much smaller and less picturesque than many photos online suggest. It’s worth a quick look if you’re already in the area, but I wouldn’t make a special trip just for it.

Tip: Visit early in the morning for the quietest streets.

10. Monastiraki Square

One of the liveliest squares in Athens, Monastiraki is where ancient history and modern city life collide. Street performers, cafés, market stalls, and views of the Acropolis create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the city.

11. Hadrian’s Library

Built in AD 132 by Roman Emperor Hadrian, this vast complex once housed books, lecture halls, and reading rooms. It was one of the most important intellectual centers in Roman Athens.

12. Roman Agora

Constructed during the Roman period, the Roman Agora became the city’s commercial center after Athens came under Roman rule. Walking through its ruins offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life nearly two thousand years ago.

13. Tower of the Winds

Located within the Roman Agora, the Tower of the Winds is often considered the world’s first meteorological station. Built in the 1st century BC, it functioned as a clock, weather vane, and sundial.

14. Hephaisteion

Often overshadowed by the Parthenon, the Temple of Hephaestus is actually one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. Dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of fire and craftsmanship, it stands beautifully within the Ancient Agora.

15. Sunset from Lycabettus Hill

Rising 277 meters above the city, Lycabettus Hill offers the highest viewpoint in central Athens. From the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the Acropolis to the Aegean Sea. It was one of our favorite places in the entire city.

Where to eat

Athens has an incredible food scene, from traditional tavernas hidden in basements to modern brunch spots and rooftop restaurants overlooking the Acropolis. Some of our favorite places are:

• Efcharis: traditional Greek dishes next to the Acropolis;
• Stoa Tou Psyrri: in the vibrant Psyrri neighborhood, a very local place despite being close to the city center;
• Diporto: a completely unmarked underground tavern, with no menu, no signage and also no window (the smell can be quite strong if it’s hot);
• Falafellas: a quick stop in Monastiraki for falafel wraps;
• Anefani: a hidden gem with one of the best views in Athens;
• Rooftop Cocktail Bar (St George Lycabettus hotel): one of the most impressive views in Athens with a panoramic view over the entire city and the Acropolis in front, magical at sunset;
• La Suite Lounge (St George Lycabettus hotel): a beautiful rooftop restaurant offering modern Greek dishes with one of the best views in the city.

Where to stay in Athens

Athens has accommodation options for every budget, but location makes a big difference when it comes to exploring the city on foot and enjoying the views. We stayed at St George Lycabettus, a stylish hotel olcated in Kolonaki with one of the best rooftop views in Athens. The highlights are definitely the pool and terrace overlooking the Acropolis, perfect for sunset drinks or a relaxed morning swim above the city, the restaurant and the views you get from your own balcony!

Other great accomodations are:
– Pallineon House, a more boutique-style stay offering a comfortable base in the city. Ideal if you’re looking for something central and practical while still having easy access to the main sights;
– Eternal Acropolis Suite, a beautiful option for those who want direct views of the Acropolis. Waking up with that kind of panorama makes it one of the most memorable places to stay in Athens.

How to get around

Athens is a surprisingly walkable city, and we explored almost everything on foot during our two days there. Most of the main attractions, including the Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki, the Roman Agora, and several of the city’s best viewpoints, are located within walking distance of one another.

That said, Athens also has an excellent public transportation network if you need to travel further afield. The metro is clean, efficient, and connects the city center with the airport, port of Piraeus, and other neighborhoods across the city.

If you’re only visiting for a few days, you may find yourself walking more than taking public transport. Some of our favorite moments in Athens came from simply wandering through its streets and stumbling upon hidden corners, local cafés, and unexpected views of the Acropolis.

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Athens was the perfect way to end our Greece trip. While most people come for the Acropolis, we quickly discovered a city full of charming neighborhoods, incredible viewpoints, delicious food, and layers upon layers of history waiting to be explored. I hope this guide helps you plan your own trip to Athens! As always, feel free to leave a comment below or send me a message on Instagram if you have any questions. And if this guide helped plan your trip, I’d love to see your photos, don’t forget to tag me in your posts and stories!

With love,
Marina

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