Planning a trip to Athens? An unforgettable adventure is right around the corner. This ancient but ever-evolving city offers the perfect mix of history, gastronomy, nature and modern culture. If you're looking for the best things to do in Athens, this guide will help you create an itinerary filled with must see sites in Athens, hidden corners, best activities in Athens, and atmospheric locations.
Goot to Know Before You Go
Why is Athens worth visiting?
Athens is definitely the city you should visit this year. Few European capitals can boast such a combination of ancient history, delicious cuisine, magnificent views and a vibrant atmosphere. From climbing the Acropolis to enjoying a glass of ouzo on a sunny terrace, there are plenty of things to do in Athens. You can spend a great long weekend in this city, but we recommend staying longer, so that you could visit all the must see places in Athens.
And now, let’s dive into Leonardo’s List of the top 20 things to do in Athens!
The Acropolis is Athens' calling card. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monument has towered over the city for over 2,500 years. The main jewel is the Parthenon, built in 447 BC in honour of the goddess Athena. It is a masterpiece of Doric order, striking in its harmony and undoubtedly a must visit in Athens!
Be sure to walk around the Erechtheion with its graceful caryatids and climb the Areopagus Hill for a magnificent view.
Plaka is Athens' oldest neighbourhood, located at the foot of the Acropolis. It has narrow streets, neoclassical houses, blooming bougainvillea and cosy tavernas. As you stroll along Tripodon Street, you are walking down one of the oldest streets in Europe that is still in use. This is one of the best places to go in Athens!
Opened in 2009, the Acropolis Museum is an example of modern architecture built directly above the ancient ruins (visible through the glass floor). It houses the original Parthenon sculptures, including metopes, friezes and statues. The last floor of the museum is designed so that its gallery is aligned with the Parthenon, creating a unique sense of connection. If you love archaeology or history, the Acropolis Museum is your must see in Athens.
The Ancient Agora is the centre of Athens' social life during the time of Pericles. It was here that Socrates held his philosophical talks. Note the beautifully preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalus, which now houses a museum.
Monastiraki Square is a mix of ancient ruins, Ottoman past and modern shops. The flea market is a paradise for vintage, antique and handmade bargain hunters. Visiting this flea market is a great way to experience the city as a local and one of the best free things to do in Athens.
Tip: While there, try the street foods, such as souvlaki, gyros or kuluri (sesame pretzels).
Panathinaikos Stadium is the only stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. The first Olympic Games of modern times were held here in 1896. Try running a lap around the track - the sensation is unforgettable!
Every hour, a guard of honour - the “eusones” - changes outside the Greek Parliament. The guards wear uniforms, designs of which dates back Ottoman rule. If you are here on a Sunday, don’t miss a chance to view a particularly sacred ceremony at 11:00, accompanied by an orchestra.
Mount Likavit is the highest peak in Athens (277 metres). An ancient legend has it that the hill was formed when the goddess Athena dropped a boulder onto the soil. Climbing the hill on foot is one of the top things to do in Athens. And if you are feeling less adventurous, you can also take the funicular up.
Tip: Once you reach the top, take a break at a cafe there and enjoy gorgeous views over the city.
Psiri is a trendy Athens neighbourhood where you can find countless taverns with live music, restaurants with authentic food, and small bakeries. While there, try saganaki, moussaka, Greek salad and, of course, loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) for a desert.
The National Garden was established by Queen Amalia back in the 1840s. Nowadays, with over 7,000 trees, ponds, and shady walkways, it's the perfect place to take a break and relax in the city. Perfect on a hot day, as you can cool down in shade of many trees.
One of the best museums in Athens, the National Archaeological Museum houses unique archaeological finds including the mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, Cycladic statuettes and ancient bronze sculptures. It’s a perfect place to go if you’re visiting Athens with a family.
Dating back to 161 AD, this ancient amphitheatre seats more than 5,000 spectators. Here, you can watch opera, ballet and concerts under the stars overlooking the Acropolis. Just make sure to check the program and buy your ticket in advance, as the seats sold out fast! Watching a performance in the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is one of the most unique things to do in Athens.
Restaurants and bars overlooking the Acropolis are a must visit in Athens. Popular spots include A for Athens, 360 Cocktail Bar, Couleur Locale, or the Rooftop Bar at the NYX Hotel Esperia Palace Athens. Try cocktails with mastic, basil or pomegranate.
Anafiotika is a miniature ‘island’ neighbourhood below the Acropolis, built by natives of the island of Anafi in the 19th century. White houses, blue shutters, flowers and all is right in the centre of Athens.
Exarchia is a neighbourhood of students, anarchists and artists. The walls here have been turned into a gallery of creative and colourful graffiti. It’s a great neighbourhood to visit if you want to explore a young and alternative side of Athens. Here, you will find lots of trendy cafes, bookshops and small galleries.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre is a modern complex in Kallithea designed by Renzo Piano. It houses the National Opera, the National Library, a huge park with fountains and playgrounds. This is one of the Athens top attractions.
Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal lake just 30 minutes from the centre of Athens. The water is warm all year round, with therapeutic properties. The place itself is gorgeous, surrounded by hanging cliffs. While there, visit a fish ‘spa’ and treat yourself to an unconventional pedicure.
An entire year won’t be enough to explore all of the Greek islands. Yet, you can easily get a taste of Mediterranean life by taking a cruise to nearby Aegina, Poros and Idra. There, you can enjoy white-sand beaches, picturesque streets and the best seafood.
Cine Thisio is the oldest open-air cinema in Europe and has been in operation since 1935. Watching a film under the stars, overlooking the Acropolis, what could be more romantic than that?
Varvakios Market is where all Greeks shop. Olives, feta cheese, spices, fresh fish and meat - everything here is fresh, locally sourced, and authentic. Stop by the little tavernas at the market to try the best street food in Athens.
Now you're ready for Athens!
From ancient temples to art cafes, hidden corners to bustling markets, Athens is rightly ranked among Europe's best cities for travelling. Suitable for families, couples, solo travellers, romantics and gastronomes. Athens awaits you!
Book your stay at Leonardo Hotels in Athens and start your Athens adventure today.
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