best ruins to visit in athens

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Planning a trip to the historical city of Athens, Greece and wanting to wander about the magical ruins? Prepared to be blown away while literally walking back through time! The ancient ruins of Athens are one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited, due to both the magnificent beauty and their historical representation. Here are the best Athens ruins to visit when in Greece!

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

Athens: the largest and capital city of Greece . And one of the oldest cities in the world, as it’s been continually inhabited for over 3,000 years. Whoa!

Known as the historical capital of Europe or the world’s ancient capital , Athens dates back to the 5th century and Neolithic Era.

This remarkable city was the birthplace of democracy and the motherland of western civilization.

No doubt, Athens is a city filled with thousands of years of history and a multitude of ancient ruins to show for it.

It’s one of my favorite cities in all of Europe, having explored ancient Athens for about 6 days when I last visited. My favorite part of the city though: the magical ruins .

Built centuries ago, massive monuments like the Acropolis and the Parthenon were designed and constructed as prominent architectural structures.

Nowadays, the ruins can be explored by visitors who want to literally walk through history. How cool, right?

But, with that said, if you’re short on time, which should you visit? I’ve listed out some of my favorite that I believe are worth every second of your Athens itinerary! So let’s get into it, shall we?

Table of Contents

VISITING THE ANCIENT RUINS OF ATHENS: WHICH ARE WORTH YOUR TIME?

The acropolis.

If you’re in Athens, even if it’s just for a short amount of time, you  must visit the Acropolis. Hands down, this is the most popular Greek ruin in the city!

Even if you don’t visit any other historical ruin sites, make sure to at least visit this site, as it’s the most important monument in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage site .

The Acropolis is a rocky hill with a flat top and a remarkable example of an architectural structure demonstrating the historical stages of the  16th century BC.

Throughout the site, there are a variety of monuments that have stayed put throughout wars, explosions, earthquakes, alterations and more for almost 25 centuries.

P.S. While you’re near the Acropolis, if you have the time, don’t miss out on the Acropolis Museum! And if you need more ideas on what to do in Athens, click here.

* The following suggestions are part of the Acropolis *

The Parthenon

One of the greatest cultural monuments and a representation of Ancient Greece, Athenian democracy, and western civilization.

Hey! Thinking of strolling about Athens’ ruins without proper travel insurance ? Think again! You never know what could happen (uh, hello, not-so-safe-ancient-steps!). Get awesome travel insurance here with World Nomads (who I  always use!).

The Propylaea

The monumental gateway to the ancient Acropolis in Athens.

The Greek word propylaeon literally means  “ that which is before the gates ,” but now one can simply interpret the word as “gate building.”

The Erechtheum (Erechtheion)

Located on the north side of the Acropolis, this temple is dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon .

Additionally, the olive tree planted on the side of the Erechtheum represents hundreds of years of dedication and reverence .

The tree established the dominance of the goddess Athena within the city that would take her name.

Psst, I took all these photos with my Sony a5000 ! It’s something I NEVER travel without, as it helps me capture both incredible photos and beautiful memories! Get your own here.

Old Temple of Athena

The foundations of the Old Temple of Athena can be found in front of the Erechtheum (featured in the picture above).

Temple of Athena Nike

Nike means victory in Greek and Athena was the goddess of wisdom and victory in war.

Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus

A major theatre in Athens, able to seat 17,000 people and situated at the foot of the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus was a perfect location for ancient Athenian celebrations.

*End of Acropolis sites*

Temple of Zeus

The Temple of the Olympian Zeus has unusually large columns and is one of the largest in the world; it’s the largest temple in the city of Athens.

Ancient Agora

Located between the neighborhoods of Thission and Monastiraki , Ancient Agora is a large area with beautiful greenery and ancient ruins.

In ancient times, Ancient Agora was the center of Athens and the site where political and judicial gatherings would take place.

*The following ruins of Athens are located within the area of Ancient Agora *

Temple of Hephaestus

The  best preserved Doric temple in Greece, this temple is dedicated to both Hephaestus, the ancient god of fire, and Athena.

It overlooks Ancient Agora and most of the temple remains standing to this day.

Stoa of Attalos

This ancient greek building was used for centuries as a major shopping center in the Ancient Agora; now it’s used as a museum for artifacts and pieces of history.

*End of sites in Ancient Agora*

Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds

Located between Monastiraki and the Acropolis, the Roman Agora is a large green area containing the Tower of the Winds and other various pieces of ancient artifacts.

There are more ancient sites throughout the city but those mentioned are some of the most important and well-preserved  ancient ruins of Athens.

If you’re ever in Athens, be sure to visit at least a few of these amazing Greek ruins and marvel at the beauty that was created centuries age.

Have you visited ancient Athens? Or are planning a trip there? Or better yet, are you already in this incredible city? Let me know in the comments!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

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Article comments.

Astrid Vinje

I love this post so much! Such great pictures. Greece has always been on my bucket list, and I just love the idea of visiting such historical places.

Shantay Oleksy

Precisely what I was looking for, thanks for putting up.

Have been to Greece just this past fall… what a wonderful trip! Of course, visited the Parthenon and the Acropolis and luckily, while we were there, we saw Salvatore Adamo in concert… wow, a dream come true. Love Greece!

The Wanderful Me

Hiya Renee! I’m so so glad you had a wonderful trip to Athens – it’s an incredible city! And such a cool experience to see a Salvatore Adamo concert. Thanks for stopping by and reading! 🙂

Excellent blog here! Also your site loads up very fast! What host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my site loaded up as fast as yours lol

Hey Maik! Thank you! My blog is hosted with Bluehost (www.thewanderfulme.com/recommends/bluehost/) but I also use the Smush plugin to shrink my image size, which can greatly increase site speed. Additionally, uninstalling any unused plugins can significantly help site speed! (Like uninstalling Jetpack!) Cheers!

Thanks for one’s marvelous posting! I quite enjoyed reading it, you can be a great author. I will always bookmark your blog and will often come back later on. I want to encourage one to continue your great job, have a nice day!

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 Must-See Historical Attractions in Athens

Athens: the birthplace of western civilisation. known for its expressive architecture, striking ruins, and picturesque landscape, there are a number of essential sites for any visitor to see..

Lucy Davidson

06 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

Western Civilisation owes a great deal to Athens. Many intellectual and artistic ideas originated there, and great thinkers were drawn to what was once one of the powerhouse cities of classical antiquity. As the cradle of democracy, classical Athenian architecture reflected the influx of ideas, with sprawling villas, vast monuments, and epic amphitheatres being just a few of the sites that have been left behind.

Today, the city is still dominated by landmarks which date to 5th-century B.C. and are hugely popular attractions. Here’s our pick of 10 that you shouldn’t miss.

What are the Top Ten Sites to Visit in Athens?

1. The Acropolis

Of all the places to visit in Athens, the Acropolis is by far and away the most popular. However, there’s more to this site than just the Parthenon temple for which it is best known.

Indeed, the Acropolis contains a number of other fascinating things to see, including the Erechtheion, the Propylaia and the temple of Athena Nike. Usually pretty swamped with tourists and guides, it’s not a particularly peaceful experience, but you simply can’t visit Athens without seeing the Acropolis.

2. Temple of Poseidon - Sounio

For truly spectacular views you can’t beat a short half- or full day-trip down to Sounio to see the Temple of Poseidon.

This partially ruined Greek temple sits atop a coastal cliff, with the deep blue ocean below combining to make for one picturesque backdrop – certainly one of the most picturesque places near Athens to visit. If you can catch it at sunset, then the scene will be complete. It’s roughly an hour out from Athens and there are loads of tour options available.

3. Theatre of Herodes Atticus

This partially restored Greco-Roman theatre is visually stunning. If you forgive the fact that much of the site is probably more Greco-Modern than Greco-Roman then you’ll definitely enjoy your visit.

Built by an affluent Greek-born Roman senator in the mid-second century AD, the theatre is startlingly photogenic and offers some great shots of the city. Though it’s not one of the most well-known Athenian sites, it’s nevertheless one of the most appealing.

4. Temple of Hephaestus

Strangely ignored by many lists of the best things to see in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is actually the best preserved of Athens’ ancient temples, and by quite some margin. It’s remarkably good condition is due to its conversion for use as a church in the 7th century.

Today it largely stands in its original form; remarkable given it was built almost 2,500 years ago. Despite all its clear advantages however, it has been and remains overshadowed literally and figuratively by the larger and more famous temple on the hill, the Parthenon.

5. The Parthenon

Unmistakably perched atop the Acropolis, many people come to Athens just to visit the Parthenon. Indeed, it always ranks among the top 10 places to see in Athens, often sitting at number one.

While there’s no doubt the Parthenon is impressive and you simply can’t come to Athens without visiting it, it gets hot and jam packed in the tourist season and it’s not as well preserved as some of the other ancient temples in Athens. Visit as early in the day as you can and be aware that there is on-going preservation work underway.

6. Agios Eleftherios

One of the more tucked away places to see in Athens, the charming Byzantine church of Agios Eleftherios is definitely worth a visit.

Built in the 12th century, it’s a beautiful example of later-Byzantine architecture. Located alongside the far larger Cathedral of Athens, this small yet perfectly formed medieval church is a pint-sized hidden gem among the hustle and bustle of Athenian life.

7. Panathenaic Stadium

A visually stunning stadium and the site of the first modern Olympic games, the Panathenaic Stadium is well worth a visit. Built on the site of its ancient predecessor, the sporting history of this place stretches back 2,300 years.

Today the site is one of the most fun things to do in Athens – you can explore the stadium, find out more about Olympic history, and even hold an Olympic torch! Great for kids, the track is open for visitors, so you can follow in ancient footsteps and gain your own Olympic glory.

8. Ancient Agora of Athens

If you’re mulling over what to see in Athens, the Ancient Agora is an interesting and easy to reach option.

Once the thriving heart of the city, today it contains the remains of a number of important ancient buildings as well as the impressive Agora Museum, contained within the reconstructed building known as the Stoa of Attalos.

9. Kerameikos

A hidden gem that takes a little extra effort to discover, Kerameikos seems very much to be the most ignored archaeological park in Athens.

However, this quiet and peaceful place definitely ranks among the more interesting and rewarding things to do in Athens. Containing the remains an ancient cemetery, Kerameikos includes the ruins of a series of famous monuments and even what’s left of the old city walls. The small museum helps to bring a bit of context to the site and is also well worth a visit.

10. Athens National Archaeological Museum

One of the most prominent archaeological institutions in the world, this great museum is absolutely packed with ancient artefacts – far too many to discover in one go!

Like any museum of this type, it can be somewhat exhausting once you’ve explored several dozen collections, and with such a treasure trove on show the novelty can wear off after a time. That said, with permanent exhibitions ranging from the Neolithic and Mycenaean, right through ancient Greece and into the Romans era, the museum is full of fascinating artefacts and stories and certainly ranks among the most interesting places to visit in Athens.

Athens Ruins: A Guide to the best ancient Greek sites of Athens

Ancient ruins are scattered all over Athens, so how do you know which are the best Athens ruins to visit? In this complete guide, you’ll not only have all the practical info you need to visit the best Athens ruins but also why they are so important to Greece and to Western civilization. If you’re fascinated by ancient history and ancient Greece, don’t miss this comprehensive guide to the best Athens ruins to visit on your next visit to the Greek capital.

Acropolis of Athens

The UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis of Athens, is the most important historical site in Greece and its ancient ruins are among the most treasured in the world.

UNESCO describes the Acropolis as

“the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world.”

Beginning in the fifth century BCE, the rocky hill towering over Athens became home to the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and Temple of Athena Nike.

Whilst the main Acropolis buildings date back to the 5th century BCE, the ancient citadel has been fortified by steep walls for over 3300 years and is a memorial to the thought and art of classical Western civilization including Democracy and Athenian philosophy.

Make sure that when you stay in Athens, you wake up with a spectacular view of the Acropolis, and watch it light up the Athens sky as night falls by staying in one of the Best Athens Hotels Near the Acropolis.

A Propylaea is an ancient Greek entranceway and the Acropolis Propylaea is the grandest in all of Greece.

The central gateway was the end of the Sacred Way which ran from Eleusis to the Acropolis.

The building is made from marble and plans had been made for northern and southern wings.

The outbreak of war between Athens and Sparta (the Peloponnesian War) in 431 BCE meant that the Propylaea was never finished.

I was so excited to see the Parthenon, I almost ran along the great marble slabs of the Propylaea and up the slight slope to its imposing form.

This Parthenon was constructed from 447 to 438 BCE and has been blown up, fired upon, looted, and turned into a site for the worship of Hagia Sophia, then the Virgin Mary, and then made into a mosque.

It is the third Parthenon to exist on the site but is perhaps the most magnificent.

Commissioned by Pericles and designed by Iktinos, the Parthenon is a double Doric column pavilion. The large wing has eight columns across its narrow side and 17 on its longest side.

Phidias was the sculptor of the Parthenon’s treasures. This would have included the ivory statue of Athena the Virgin, clad in armor, that once existed within the Parthenon.

It was stolen to Constantinople and eventually destroyed.

It’s not possible to enter the Parthenon but it is possible to see the friezes and pediments (mostly replicas) and to walk around the monument.

But you won’t be disappointed – it’s a real buzz to see this incredibly important world monument.

Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is, for me, as incredible as the Parthenon. It doesn’t have the scale of the Parthenon but it is the most significant in terms of the mythology of Ancient Greece.

The Erechtheion is dedicated to the god and goddess that fought for the hearts and minds of the people who became known as Athenians. The goddess Athena was chosen over the god of the sea, Poseidon.

The Erechtheion bears the scars of the mythological battle between the two gods. The hole in the roof of the Erechtheion is where Poseidon’s trident flew to earth, striking the ground, leaving deep scratches as well as a saltwater well to appear.

The sacred olive tree beside the Erectheion grew to symbolize the goddess Athena’s victory over Poseidon.

The Erechtheion also contains the “Porch of the Maidens,” the six Caryatids or draped female figures which are the columns supporting the roof.

Temple of Athena Nike

The Temple of Athena Nike is devoted to one of the three forms of the goddess Athena, all of which can be seen at the Acropolis.

(The other two are Athena Polonia, the goddess of the City, and Athena Promachos, the goddess of war).

The initial Temple of Athena Nike was demolished by the Turks in 1686 and later rebuilt. It is a four-column (tetrastyle) Ionic building.

At the Acropolis Museum, you can see a wonderful frieze from the pediment of the Temple showing Nike pausing to adjust her sandal.

It’s disappointing that it’s not possible to get close to the Temple of Athena Nike because it perches on the Propylaea, jutting out from the southeast entrance.

To enter the Temple of Victory (Nike means victory), you need to use a narrow stairway at the north of the Propylaea.

Odeon of Herodotus Atticus

Like the Arch of Hadrian, The ruins of the Odeon of Herodotus Atticus are not an ancient Greek monument, but in fact a Roman one.

It was built during the Roman period in 161 AD and is on the southwestern slope of the Acropolis. Originally it had a cedar roof.

It had been built by Herodotus (or Herodes) Atticus in memory of his wife. in 267 AD it was destroyed by the Heruli and finally renovated in the 1950s.

Today you can watch concerts here in the summer.

Theatre of Dionysus

The Theater of Dionysus is a must-see part of any visit to the Acropolis.

It is part of a Sanctuary of Dionysus on the southern slope of the Acropolis and was built in the sixth century BC.

This Theater is the birthplace of Western theater and was enormously important to Greek culture.

It was the performance space for great Ancient Greek tragedians and dramatists such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, Aristophanes, and Euripides.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

This ancient temple in the foreground of the Acropolis is dedicated to Zeus in his guise as the head of the Olympian gods.

Begun in the 6th century BCE, the Temple wasn’t completed until the Roman era. During this period it must have been a magnificent site with 104 columns and a giant cult statue.

But its full glory only lasted about 100 years. Because the Temple of Zeus was built during the time known as Athenian tyranny, the Temple was not completed once Athenian democracy had been restored.

Aristotle wrote that it was an example of a dictatorial white elephant project.

Today 16 of the giant columns still exist, the rest having been used for other buildings after the sacking of the building by barbarians in 267 AD.

Ancient Agora of Athens

The Classical Agora sits between the Acropolis and Market Hill (and not be confused with the Roman Agora).

It is the best example of an ancient Greek market. A large number of buildings were added to the site of the Agora, including the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.

Dating from the 6th century, of all the ancient sites in Athens, this is less imposing but was the center of everyday life in ancient Athens – a place for commerce, politics, and community.

Stoa of Attalos

This lovely building was a gift from King Attalos II of Pergamon to the city of Athens for the education it gave his son.

There are two reasons to seek out the Stoa of Attalos. The first is because it is a beautiful building and one of the few reconstructed from the Classical Era.

The reconstruction included as much of the original two-storied columned walkway as possible.

The second reason to visit is that the Museum of the Ancient Agora is located within the Stoa of Attalos.

It’s more than just a collection of finds from the Agora – these articles are central to Greek democracy, law, politics, and commerce.

The Museum includes official bronze stations, court plates, and court votes, as well as public clay measures, a clay hourglass, and even a lottery section made from marble!

Temple of Hephaestus

Unlike the Stoa of Attalos which has been reconstructed, the Temple of Hephaestus is the best-preserved ancient temple in all of Greece.

It is almost completely intact, even though it was built in 449 BCE.

The Temple is dedicated to the god Hephaestus, the god of fire, metalworking, and craftmanship. There are 6 columns on the east and west sides of the Temple and 13 on the longer sides.

It once contained statues of Athena and Hephaestus.

Not as well known as other famous ruins in Athens, Kerameikos is, however, truly fascinating.

Kerameikos is also known as “ceramicus” in Latin which is where we get the word ‘ceramic.’ Inside the city walls is the Potters’ quarter.

Through the Dipylon Gate, the other part of Kerameikos is best known for the cemetery and the funerary sculptures that line the Sacred Way to Eleusis in Attica.

Given that there has been a cemetery in Kerameikos for 5000 years, it’s not surprising that the Kerameikos Museum has the best collection of burial artifacts in Greece.

Acropolis Museum

Many of the ancient ruins of Athens stand empty but it is possible to find some of the outstanding objects and works of art that belonged to them.

They exist here, in the New Acropolis Museum, close to the Acropolis, and an essential stop after the Acropolis.

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece)

25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece)

If you’re like us then coming to the cradle of civilisation is like being a child in a candy shop. There’s no limit to the amount of Doric and Ionic temples, statues, vases and Archaic figurines we could devour before we get tired.

In museums you can see the ballot disks from Ancient Greek courts, and you can step into the Theatre of Dionysus, the very place where Euripides and Aristophanes staged their plays, or walk the Agora, knowing that your path will be the same once trodden by Plato and Socrates.

But Athens is far more than an archaeological site, from the jungle of concrete towers in the modern city to Plaka, a warren of alleys built over ancient Athens residential quarters. Punctuating the cityscape are hills like Mount Lycabettus and Philopappos Hill where you can get the lie of the land and see the Acropolis on its rocky throne.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Athens :

1. Acropolis

There’s nothing we can tell you that hasn’t been said many times about Athens’ ancient citadel.

The Acropolis is on an abrupt rocky outcrop above the city and has world-renowned Classical landmarks that people spend whole lifetimes waiting to see in the flesh.

The pinnacle of these is of course the Parthenon, but The Propylea, the Erectheion and the Temple of Athena Nike are indispensible, and you can skip the queues and get enthralling inside facts and titbits about ancient Greek democracy and philosophy with a registered guide.

The going is steep and slippery on timeworn marble, until you reach the flat summit, and be prepared for cranes and scaffolding, which are an understandable necessity for a World Heritage Site.

Recommended tour :  Athens Mythology Highlights Tour

2. Parthenon

Seen as the greatest achievement of the Doric Order and Classical Greece’s most significant building to make it to the 21st Century, the Parthenon is a symbol of western civilisation and Athenian democracy.

The Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena and begun in 447 BC, when the Athenian Empire was the dominant force in the Aegean.

Co-designed, by Ictinus and Callicrates, at that time it was a city treasury before becoming a church in the 6th century and then a mosque in the 1460s.

Notoriously, some of the Parthenon’s sculptures were plundered by The Earl of Elgin at the start of the 18th century and were later sold to the British Museum where they remain.

The remainder of the original frieze and pediment sculpture is the highlight of the Acropolis Museum, which follows.

Recommended tour : Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

3. Acropolis Museum

The work of Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, the Acropolis Museum in on the southeast slope and was unveiled in 2009 to present the many thousands of artefacts discovered on the archaeological site of the Acropolis.

Smartly oriented to give you constant views of the Parthenon, the museum is built over ancient ruins and much of the ground floor has glass panels and open spaces, showing the foundations below.

On three levels visitors are sent on a chronological trip through the centuries, starting with the hill’s archaic discoveries in a large trapezoidal hall that also has findings from the Erechtheion, the Propylaea gateway and the Temple of Athena Nike.

After this you go up to wonder at the marbles from the frieze (including metopes) and the pediments of the Parthenon in a hall with the same dimensions, column spacing and orientation as the temple.

The tour then continues back down, through Roman and early Christian Athens.

Skip the line :  The Acropolis Museum Skip-The-Line Ticket

4. Erechtheion

On the north side of the Acropolis is a temple to Athena and Poseidon, built in the Ionic Order from 421 to 406 BC. After antiquity this monument had all sorts of uses, as a Byzantine church, a palace in the Frankish period and much later a residence for the Ottoman commander’s harem.

The thing you have to see, and the Erechtheion’s defining image, is the southern Porch of the Maidens.

This has six magnificent caryatids supporting its roof, carved by Callimachus or Alcamenes.

The current caryatids are casts, and five of the originals are now in the Acropolis museum and a sixth is at the British Museum.

5. National Archaeological Museum

A veritable wonderland of ancient art, it’s fitting that Athens’ National Archaeological Museum should be one of the largest and richest in the world.

The galleries are jammed with star exhibits that have been beguiling scholars for generations.

Take the finds from the Atikythera wreck, identified in 1900 and dating back to the 4th century BC. This yielded the Atikythera Mechanism, the world’s oldest analogue computer and the contemplative Philosopher’s Head.

Then there’s the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold funerary mask from the 16th century BC , most likely made for Mycenaean royalty, though too early for Agamemnon.

See also the Eleusinian relief from the 5th century BC, as well as Bronze Age frescoes from the islands of Santorini and Thera and the Jockey of Artemision, a beguiling statue of a racehorse from 150-140 BC.

6. Temple of Hephaestus

Atop the 65-metre Agoraios Kolonos hill on the northwest side of the Agora of Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is a Doric peripteral temple in an amazing state of preservation.

It was built in the second half of the 5th century BC and construction was delayed for three decades because funds and labour were redirected towards the Parthenon.

Designed by Ictinus, the temple was dedicated to Athena and Hephaestus who was the ancient god of fire, metalworking, forges, sculpture and stonemasonry, and has six fluted columns on its west side and 13 on its north and south.

You can also make out plenty of sculpted elements, from the Labour of Hercules on the meotopes on the east side, to the pronaos and opisthodomos, which show Theseus with the Pallantides and the battle of Centaurs and Lapiths.

7. Museum of Cycladic Art

Beginning in the 1960s the couple Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris amassed the world’s largest collection of prehistoric art from the Cycladic Islands in the Aegean.

By the 1980s this was enough to fill a museum, which opened in 1986. There are more than 3,000 pieces of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot art at the museum, dating from 3,000 to the 4th century BC. But it’s the Cycladic marble figurines that draw the most acclaim.

If you love modern art you may notice uncanny similarities between their minimal, abstract lines and works by the likes of Giacometti and Henry Moore.

Book online : Museum of Cycladic Art Entry Ticket

8. Temple of Athena Nike

In a commanding position, raised on a bastion on the southeast slope of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike is from 420 BC and was the first complete Ionic Order temple on the hill.

It’s the most recent of a number of temples dedicated to Athena Nike at the Acropolis, the previous of which was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC. Conceived by Callicrates, this edifice is a tetrastyle Ionic temple with four elegantly narrow columns on its front and rear porticos that have the hallmark Ionic volutes or scrolls.

Fragments of the frieze and relief around the parapet below are on display at the Acropolis Museum, including the sublime wet drapery sculpture of the goddess fixing her sandal.

An antidote to both the silent ancient temples and traffic-heavy modern city, Plaka lies on top of ancient Athens’s residential quarters in the shadow of the Acropolis.

It’s a district of tight, twisting alleys with 19th-century facades garlanded with flowering bougainvillea in summer.

Plaka is jam-packed with family-run shops, each with something alluring, from ceramics, musical instruments, handmade jewellery to specialty food shops stacked high with olives and spices.

And whether you want to pick up a gyro or sit down to a meze Plaka is a go-to for dining and nightlife.

Below the rocky notheastern slope of the Acropolis is Anafiotika, a steep whitewashed neighbourhood settled in the 19th-century reign of Otto of Greece when workers moved here during the renovation of King Othon’s Palace.

Recommended tour :  Early Morning Acropolis & Plaka Guided Walking Tour

10. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Now, not much of this temple east of the Acropolis has been left standing, but what remains is more than enough to tell you that it used to be vast.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus had an extremely long construction period, started in the 6th century BC but not completed until the rule of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd Century AD. In that time the prevalent order had switched to Corinthian, and the 15 surviving columns of an original 104 have scrolls and acanthus patterns.

The temple was pulled down during the Herulian sack of Athens in 267, little more than a century after it was completed , and its stone was quarried for other buildings around the city.

11. Benaki Museum

A near-complete chronology of Greek history and culture, the Benaki Museum was founded by the art collector Antonis Benakis in 1930. He set up the institution in memory of his father Emmanuel who had died the year before and was a prominent politician.

On three floors you can follow the course of Greek art from prehistoric times to the present.

The ground floor has surprisingly sophisticated Neolithic vases, as well as Archaic ceramics and figurines and Classical sculpture.

The first floor leads you through the late Byzantine period and Ottoman rule, and is endowed with religious icons and examples of folk costume.

Then after the cafeteria on the 3rd, the top floor has paintings, documents and weapons from the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire from 1821 to 1829.

12. Ancient Agora of Athens

Reserved for trade and public gatherings, the Agora was the centre of Classical Athens and is cushioned by the Acropolis to the southeast and the Agoraios Kolonos hill to the south.

It was drawn up in the 6th century BC and is a wide-ranging site with the ruins of more than 30 buildings and monuments.

Download a map, go slow and let you imagination wander.

Or hire a guide who will explain the ancient customs that once took place where you stand, like ostracism, in which potential threats to the state were preemptively forced into exile.

13. Museum of the Ancient Agora

One of the monuments in the Agora, the Stoa of Attalos, was totally reconstructed in the 1950s.

This covered walkway was first built by Attalos II in the mid-2nd century BC but was wrecked by the Herules in 267. The new building was as faithful as possible to the archaeological knowledge of the day and hosts the Museum of the Ancient Agora, showing off the artefacts brought to light during excavations in the area by the American School of Classical Studies.

Awaiting you are Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Geometric period figurines, weapons and vases recovered from tombs and wells.

You can also see some thrilling pieces relating to Athenian democracy in the Classical and Late Classical periods, like an official bronze weight, shards of pottery used in ostracism ballots (ostracons), clay measuring devices, bronze and lead ballot disks once used in trials.

Available tour: Athens : Guided Tour of Ancient Agora and Agora Museum

14. Panathenaic Stadium

Erected for the 1896 Olympics, the Panathenaic Stadium is a modern reconstruction of an ancient stadium built for the Panathenaic Games in 330 BC. Two hundred years later that ancient monument would be rendered in marble by the Athenian Roman senator Herodes Atticus.

With a U-shape layout, the Panethenaic Stadium is an almost exact replica of the construction from the 2nd century BC, and like its ancient ancestor is composed completely from marble.

It was seen around the world during the 2004 Athens Olympics when it staged the archery events and was the finish line for both the men’s and women’s marathon.

The stadium can hold 45,000 spectators and from its highest tiers you can see the Acropolis and the National Garden.

15. Mount Lycabettus

Unlike Athens’ most famous summit, Mount Lycabettus is free to climb on foot, but you can also take a funicular to the summit.

Northeast of the city centre, this cretaceous limestone peak rises to 300 metres and its lower slopes are decked in pine trees, which become sparser as you approach the rocky summit.

The walk is best saved for winter and not the searing Athens summer, while the funicular runs on the hour and half-hour.

At the top you’ll be bowled over by the best panorama of the city and can take your time to pick out the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Piraeus Coast and peaks like Pentelicus, which yielded the marble for the Acropolis, and the soaring Parnitha in the north.

16. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

This Roman-era concert hall was raised in 161 AD on the orders of the Athenian Magnate Herodes Atticus, most likely in memory of his wife Aspasia Annia Regilla.

At that time it had a roof made from cedar wood and could seat 5,000 until it was razed by the Herules in 275. Over the next 1,700 years, the monument faded into the earth, and visitors in the Medieval period had no idea what the ruins meant.

The first excavation took place in 1848 by archaeologist Kyriakos Pittakis and the man of letters Alexandros Rizos Rangavis, and witnessed by Otto of Greece.

The theatre was restored in the 1950s when the stone tiers were rebuilt using the same marble from Mount Pentelicus.

Get a seat for an evening concert to experience the Odeon as the Athenians would have done 2,000 years ago.

17. Philopappos Monument

The pine-clad elevation neighbouring the acropolis to the southwest is known as Hill of the Muses, but also the Philopappos Hill.

That name comes from Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince of the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st and 2nd centuries.

His death in 116 is said to have caused a great deal of grief to the citizens of Athens and not least his sister Julia Balbilla, who erected an lasting monument in his memory.

Two storeys high the monument has a frieze on its lower level showing Philiopappos as a Roman consul, on a chariot and preceded by lictors (bodyguards). The damaged upper section has sculptures of Antiochus IV, the last King of Commagene, and Philoppapos with an inscription in a niche below his image.

18. Byzantine and Christian Museum

By now you might be an expert on Archaic and Classical Greece, but the Byzantine period from around the 200s to the 1400s has a lot of wonders in store.

Housed in the neo-Renaissance Villa Ilissia from 1848, the Byzantine and Christian Museum opened in 1914 and was refurbished in time for the Olympics in 2004. There’s a bewitching assortment of sculptures, icons, frescoes, jewellery, architectural fragments, religious vestments, manuscripts, books and mosaics.

You’ll get to know its landmark events, like when Christianity was made legal by Constantine, and Roman power shifted from Rome to Constantinople in the 4th century.

The museum also studies the decline of Byzantine power, and how Venetian-controlled territories with cosmopolitan populations helped lay the path for the Renaissance in Europe.

19. Kapnikarea

A neat follow-up to the Byzantine Museum is this 11th-century church on Ermou Street, Athens’ poshest commercial artery.

Kapnikarea is among the oldest churches in the city and was consecrated around 1050. As was often the way with early Christian churches, Kapnikarea was built over an ancient Greek pagan temple, most likely to Demeter or Athena.

The colourful iconography in the interior is recent and was composed by the painter Photis Kontoglou in the mid-20th century, but there’s also older decoration in the church’s friezes and the sculpted column capitals inside.

20. Areopagus

There’s another hefty white outcrop amid the pines and cypress trees just northwest of the acropolis.

After taking care on the slippery marble steps, you’ll be able see the Port of Piraeus, the Acropolis and Athens Northern quarters from the Areopagus.

And being part of the Classical city there are plenty of myths associated with this rock.

One is the trial of Ares for the murder of Poseidon’s son Halirrhothius.

In the real world Areopagus was the place where the city council sat before the 5th century BC, until Ephialtes introduced reforms that stripped the council of its power.

After that time it remained Athens’ chief homicide court.

21. Theatre of Dionysus

European drama was born at the Theatre of Dionysus, which was first used for performances in the 6th century BC. Carved into the rocky southern slope of the Acropolis, it was the first theatre ever constructed.

The current design is from the middle of the 4th century BC, when the statesman Lycurgus oversaw the city’s finances, although a lot of changes were made later in the Roman period.

This monument is charged with meaning: The Theatre of Dionysus hosted the Dionysia Festival, entered by dramatists like Sophocles, Aeschylus, Euripides, Menander and Aristophanes.

It can be dumbfounding to realise you’re looking at the same stage where all of the Classical masterpieces were performed, many for the first time.

While Plaka is for sightseeing and shopping, Psiri has taken up the mantle of best nightlife quarter in Athens, with streets full of revellers until daybreak on weekends.

Psiri wasn’t always a place for outsiders, as from the foundation of the modern Greek state in 1828 to the 1990s the area had a fearsome reputation.

In the 19th century it was the haunt of Koutsavakides, a law unto themselves, with long moustaches, coats down to their ankles (for hiding their guns) and high-heeled pointed boots.

The last 20 years has rounded off Psiri’s edges, and there’s an endless choice of music tavernas, bars, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs for all tastes.

Related tour : Food and Wine Tasting Tour at Night

23. National Garden

In touching distance from Psiri and Plaka, the National Garden is a welcome green buffer between ancient Athens and the modern sea of concrete.

The National Garden was formerly the Royal Garden, opening up to the south of the Old Royal Palace and ordered by Amalia of Oldenburg at the end of the 1830s.

Come for a few minutes of repose, idling below the pergolas and avenue of lofty palm trees and bringing children to the two ponds to meet the turtles and ducks.

The park also has a small zoo with peacocks, birds of prey, wolves and monkeys, as well as a botanical museum.

And this being Athens, don’t be surprised to bump into some traces of the ancient city, like mosaics and columns.

24. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Under the facade of Old Royal Palace on Syntagma Square is a cenotaph for all Greek soldiers to have fallen during war.

The monument was sculpted in the early 1930s, blending French Empire design and Athens’ own ancient architecture, but also contemporary Art Deco which is particularly visible in the relief.

The tomb is watched by the Evzones (elite infantry) of the Presidential Guard and there’s a small changing of the guard ceremony on the hour every hour.

On the steps and wall flanking the monument are inscriptions recording battles in the First and Second Balkan War, the Greco-Turkish War, the First World War and the Second World War.

25. Eating on the Move

If you need to squeeze in a meal as you jump to the next temple or museum, Athens has something from morning to night.

Early in the day bakeries sell pastries like tiropita (cheese and egg) and spanakopita (spinach, feta and onions). Also big in the mornings is koulouri, a circular bread coated with sesame seeds and eaten fresh out of the oven, and bougatsa, another filo pastry filled with minced meat, semolina custard or cheese.

And if you need something more substantial there’s always the tried and trusted souvlaki, which is usually pork meat garnished with onions, tomatoes and tzatziki and wrapped in a pita.

Cheap and cheerful is the old-school staple patsa, a soup made with pig’s offal served at devoted patsa joints across the city.

25 Best Things to Do in Athens (Greece):

• Acropolis Museum
• Erechtheion
• National Archaeological Museum
• Temple of Hephaestus
• Museum of Cycladic Art
• Temple of Athena Nike
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Benaki Museum
• Ancient Agora of Athens
• Museum of the Ancient Agora
• Panathenaic Stadium
• Mount Lycabettus
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Philopappos Monument
• Byzantine and Christian Museum
• Theatre of Dionysus
• National Garden
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Eating on the Move

23 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Written by Lisa Alexander and Lana Law Updated Mar 1, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A symbol of Western Civilization, Athens' illustrious history stretches back more than 3,000 years. As you walk the streets today, you'll see a mix of the ancient and the modern, making it the perfect destination for travelers who like a little fun with their sightseeing.

The Acropolis is one of the world's most breathtaking ancient ruins , and the city's exceptional museums display fascinating artifacts uncovered at local sites. Other hidden charms are the dazzling Byzantine churches found all over the city and the village-like neighborhoods north of the Acropolis.

When you think you've run out of things to do in Athens, spend some time getting lost in the Plaka district's narrow pedestrian streets, lined with quaint bougainvillea-draped houses and inviting restaurant terraces. Settle here in a shady spot for a cup of Greek coffee and some fabulous Baklava. When you've recharged head over to the Athens Flea Market in Monastiraki for some light shopping.

A completely different vacation experience from the idyllic Greek islands , Athens can feel hectic and busy during the summer season, but in the spring and fall, you can still enjoy good weather and see far fewer tourists.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top tourist attractions in Athens.

1. Visit the Ancient Acropolis

2. acropolis museum, 3. national archaeology museum, 4. wander the pláka and anafiotika neighborhoods, 5. stroll through the ancient agora: ruins of the marketplace, 6. the roman agora & hadrian's library, 7. panathenaic stadium & olympic stadium, 8. museum of cycladic art, 9. olympieion: temple of olympian zeus, 10. byzantine museum, 11. search for deals in monastiraki & the flea market, 12. panaghia kapnikaréa church, 13. see the changing of the guard at syntagma square, 14. church of the holy apostles, 15. national gardens and the zappeion, 16. church of demetrius loumbardiaris, 17. grab dinner and socialize on mnisikleous street stairs, 18. the national museum of contemporary art, 19. enjoy the view from lycabettus hill, 20. varvakios agora, 21. philopappos monument, 22. areopagus, 23. benaki museum, where to stay in athens for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to athens, athens, greece - climate chart.

Few sights in the world compare to Athens' Acropolis, with its Parthenon temple perched high on a rocky crag keeping watch over centuries of civilization. A reminder of the glory of ancient Athens, the Acropolis was the center of the ancient city and functioned as a citadel in its protected hilltop location.

The most emblematic building is the Parthenon , the largest temple of the classical antiquity period dating from 447 BC to 338 BC. With its monumental rows of Doric columns and stunning sculptural details, the temple is an awe-inspiring sight. In the frieze on the eastern side, reliefs depict the birth of the goddess Athena.

Other ruins of the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike at the entrance, and Erechtheion , a complex of ancient sanctuaries built between 421 BC and 395 BC. The most famous feature of the Erechtheion complex is the Porch of the Caryatids , with six statues of maidens in place of Doric columns.

For beautiful views of the Acropolis from below , head to the north side of the hill. Streetside restaurants line the pedestrian street of Apostolou Pavlou and look up to the Acropolis. Some of these restaurants also have rooftop dining, with incredible views across to the Acropolis, showing the grand entrance, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Parthenon, all of which are lit up in the evenings.

Author's Tip: On hot days, it's best to visit the Acropolis in the morning and then head to the air-conditioned Acropolis Museum in the afternoon. Alternatively, head up to the Acropolis for sunset. To avoid the long line to get in, buy a Skip the Line Acropolis of Athens Tour , which includes a guided tour of the site.

• Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

Another of Athens' top attractions, the Acropolis Museum contains one of the most valuable collections of ancient Greek art in the world . The new facility was completed in 2007, below the Acropolis hilltop, and replaced the former museum on the hill.

This huge facility 25,000 square meters, and features 14,000 square meters of exhibition space. The unique layout incorporates an ancient Athenian neighborhood.

This is one of the best things to do in Athens when temperatures are soaring at midday. Be aware, the entrance queue to purchase tickets can be long, so it's best to book your tickets online in advance. That way, you'll have a guaranteed admission at a specific time.

Official site: http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en

Founded in the 19th century, Athens' National Archaeological Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the greatest antiquities museums in the world.

The museum is housed in an impressive Neoclassical building with 8,000 square meters of exhibition space. On display are five permanent collections with more than 11,000 exhibits, offering a comprehensive overview of Greek civilization from prehistory through the classical period to late antiquity.

The Prehistoric Collection covers the sixth millennium BC to 1050 BC (the Neolithic, Cycladic, and Mycenaean periods) and presents findings from the prehistoric settlement at Thera. The Sculpture Collection exhibits ancient Greek sculptures from the sixth century BC to the fifth century BC, including rare masterpieces. The Vase and Decorative Objects Collection showcases ancient Greek pottery from the 11th century BC all the way until the classical Roman period. The Stathatos Collection features minor objects from a wide range of historical periods. Exquisite little statues and figurines sculpted from metals are on display in the Metallurgy Collection .

Address: 44 Patission Street, Athens

Official site: https://www.namuseum.gr/en/

Between the northern slopes of the Acropolis and Ermoú Street, the picturesque Pláka neighborhood is a tourist hot spot. The main attraction of this historic area is its charming village ambience. Narrow pedestrian streets and the cheerful little squares of the Pláka quarter are lined with lovely bougainvillea-trimmed pastel-painted houses, restaurants, and shops.

Tucked away in peaceful corners of the neighborhood are historic churches, such as the Metamórfosis Church in the southwest and the Church of Kapnikaréa in the north. A leisurely stroll through the picturesque setting is the perfect thing to do when you've had your fill of ruins and museums.

The Plaka quarter, along with neighboring Anafiotika nestled into the slopes north of the Acropolis, have an abundance of authentic Greek restaurants with inviting terrace seating. The winding medieval streets of Anafiotika are also a delight to explore in the evenings. This area is famous for its Restaurant Staircase on Mnisikleous Street . Nearby, quieter streets are hidden away on the hillside, which conceal cute little cafés and restaurants.

The area boasts two important archaeological sites on Pepopida Street: the first-century BC Roman Agora and the second-century Library of Hadrian .

The ancient Agora was the marketplace and the center of everyday life in ancient Athens. For an impressive view of the Agora from afar, head to the north wall of the Acropolis or the roads from the Areopagus.

The best place to enter the Agora is at the north gate off Adrianoú Street (near the Church of Saint Philip). The Greek word "Agora" means to "gather and orate," indicating that this site was a location of public speaking. The Agora was a place of administration and commerce as well as the meeting place of the Agora tou Dimou, a civic decision-making group. Athletic events and theater performances were also held here.

One of the most striking features of the Ancient Agora is the Stoa of Attalos , originally built by King Attalos II and reconstructed in the 1950s. The stoa may have been the scene of Socrates' trial in 399 BC.

Another key site is the Temple of Hephaistos . You can reach it on a pleasant walk along the footpath that leads up the Agora Hill (Kolonos Agoraios). This fifth-century BC Doric temple is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, thanks to its conversion into a Christian church, which saved it from destruction. The temple was designed on a classical plan with six rows of 13 columns, and the Ionic friezes appear to be modeled on the Parthenon.

Address: 24 Andrianou Street, Athens

Adjacent to the Ancient Agora is the site of the Roman Agora. While it may all seem like one site, these buildings were constructed later, and construction eventually moved on to the site of the Ancient Agora. One of the easily recognizable sites here is the Tower of the Winds .

On the edge of the Roman Agora is the ancient Hadrian's Library , founded by Emperor Hadrian in AD 132. Even later, during Byzantine times, three churches were built near the site of the library.

You can see one wall of Hadrian's Library and the ruins of the Roman Agora from the street, but if you want to explore further, you can buy a ticket and walk through the ruins.

Ancient Athens's largest building, the Panathenaic Stadium, has a capacity for 60,000 spectators. Constructed around 335 BC during the era of Herodes Atticus, the venue hosted the Panathenaic Games where runners competed in races around the track. The 204-meter-long track was designed with four double herms, where runners would turn in the races.

Around AD 140, the stadium was updated with new marble seating by Herodes Atticus. The structure that tourists see today is a replica of the original stadium , which was rebuilt for the Olympic Games of 1896 . This modern-era Olympic Stadium was created in the identical fashion as the Panathenaic Stadium, with 47 tiers of seating and a rounded southeast end.

The facility hosts concerts and other events during the summer. Attending a show can be a nice way to spend an evening in Athens.

Location: Ardettos Hill, Athens

In the Kolonáki quarter, the Museum of Cycladic Art was created in 1986 by the Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris Foundation. The shipowner Nikolas P. Goulandris was a well-known patron of the arts and cultural life in Athens. Goulandris' own collection forms the core of the museum's exhibits.

Housed in a sleek modern building with a façade of marble and glass, the museum's permanent collection includes more than 3,000 objects. The collection represents ancient Greek art, ancient art of the Cyclades (the islands in the Aegean Sea encircling the Island of Delos near Mykonos), and Cypriot art (from the island of Cyprus ) dating from the fourth century BC to the sixth century AD.

Many of the artifacts on display date to the sixth century BC. Temporary exhibits are held at the elegant 19th-century Stathatos Mansion, accessible from the main building by a passageway from the atrium.

Address: 4 Neophytou Douka Street, Athens

Official site: https://cycladic.gr/en

Dedicated to Zeus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, also called the Olympieion, was the largest temple in ancient Greece . Though the Parthenon is better preserved, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was an even more monumental structure in its day. The temple dates to the sixth century BC but was not completed until the second century AD by the Emperor Hadrian. In front of the Olympieion, not far from the entrance, stands Hadrian's Arch at the end of Dionysiou Areopagitou.

It's easy to imagine the grand impression this temple made in its complete form. More than a hundred enormous marble columns once supported the grandiose sanctuary. Only 15 columns remain standing, and another surviving column lies on the ground, but the ruins' monumental presence gives a sense of the massive size of the original building. The gigantic structure was a befitting shrine to Zeus, the ancient Greeks' most all-powerful God, known as the King of Gods.

Nearby, just north of the Olympieion, is a small park containing the ruins of Themistokles' wall and the ancient Roman baths . The baths are quite impressive considering they are a free attraction that you can easily work into your walking tour near the Olympieion. They are located right along the edge of Vassilissis Amalias Avenue, at the side of the road.

Location: City Center near the Athens Gate and Athanasiou Diakou Street, Athens

This interesting museum offers fascinating insights into the Byzantine period of Greek history. Housed in a 19th-century palace originally built for the Duchesse de Plaisance, the wife of Charles-François Lebrun of France, the museum displays a precious collection of Byzantine art.

The Byzantine Empire was the inheritance of the eastern half of the Roman Empire after it fell. From the third century to the 15th century, the Byzantine Empire ruled over the land of what is now the Balkans, Greece, and Asia Minor. During this time, religious art was highly valued. Byzantine artists created masterpieces of detailed, glittering mosaics and gilded icons.

With more than 25,000 artifacts on display, the Byzantine Museum is a treasury of religious artifacts from the Byzantine period as well as pieces from the early Christian, medieval, and post-Byzantine eras. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, icons, textiles, and mosaics. Highlights are the architectural fragments from early Christian basilicas and Byzantine churches and the reproduction of a fountain depicted at the Monastery of Dafní. The museum's courtyard features a splendid fragment of a mosaic floor from the fifth century.

Address: 22 Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens

Official site: www.byzantinemuseum.gr/en/

Location: Ancient Agora, Athens

Narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from jewelry and trinkets to clothing and everyday goods is what you'll find in the Athens Flea Market in Monastiraki. This is one of the neighborhood's main draws, but this area has a very unique vibe and is a nice place to just relax at an outdoor patio or wander about.

Monastiraki has no shortage of restaurants, and this is a good place to come for lunch if you want to grab a gyros or any type of traditional Greek dish. Unlike the more upscale Plaka district, this area is a bit more casual.

Monastiraki Square is an open area, surrounded by a mix of old and new buildings. This is a good place to orient yourself. A sign on one side of the square marks the street to the Flea Market. From the square, you can see the Acropolis up high in the distance, and a short walk from the square takes you to Hadrian's Library.

Gracing a little square that opens onto a pedestrian-only section of busy Ermoú Street, the Panaghia Kapnikaréa Church is a delightful place to visit and a site you are likely to walk past. This church is a splendid example of architecture from the 11th-century Byzantine era and a stark contrast to the modern architecture that surrounds it. It was saved from demolition in the 19th century by the intervention of King Ludwig I of Bavaria.

When it was built, domed cruciform churches such as this one were typical. In the 12th century, the church was enhanced with a graceful entrance portico and a narthex featuring four pediments (built onto the western end). Inside, the church is decorated with 19th-century paintings created in the iconographic style of the Middle Byzantine period.

Location: Corner of Ermoú and Kalamiótous Street, Athens

For many tourists, watching the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square is an exciting and memorable experience. The Soldiers of the Presidential Guard stand in front of the Hellenic Parliament on Syntagma Square 24 hours a day, year-round. The guards wear traditional costumes complete with pleated skirts, leg tassels, and pompom shoes.

The Changing of the Guards takes place in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier monument at 11am daily. This monument honors anonymous soldiers who died fighting for the country. The monument features a marble relief that imitates a warrior grave stele of ancient times.

On the site of the ancient Agora, the Church of the Holy Apostles was the only building left standing when this entire quarter of Athens was demolished to excavate the Agora archaeological site. Built in the 10th century, the church stands above a nymphaion (sacred spring).

The exterior is notable for its ashlar masonry and its ornamental Kufic (a style of Arabic script) inscriptions. Typical of Byzantine architecture, the church has a dome supported on four columns, and the apse and transepts feature semicircular conches. The interior of the dome is adorned with original frescoes depicting Christ Pantocrator (Ruler of All), John the Baptist, adorable little cherubim, and archangels. Much of the original 11th-century iconostasis (wall of icons and religious paintings) has also been well preserved.

Located next to the Greek parliament, the National Garden is a large green space behind the Temple of Olympian Zeus and home to the Zappeion. If you have had enough sun during your day of sightseeing, this is a quiet, shady place to relax and cool off. Inviting trails lead through tall trees and offer a reprieve from the busy streets. It's also a free attraction in Athens.

On the edge of the garden is the Zappeion Hall , which you can enter for a peek inside if it is not in use. It was built in the 1870s and is used for events. Inside the main entrance is an impressive round, open-air hall, lined by columns.

In a verdant setting on Philopappou Hill , this tiny 12th-century Byzantine chapel offers an opportunity for an enchanting spiritual experience. The building was constructed at the Diateichisma Gate because of the ancient belief that divinity protected the gates.

Inside, the church has a single-aisle vaulted basilica form, and the walls are adorned with frescoes dating to 1732. The chapel's name "Loumbardiaris" (meaning "The Cannoneer") is connected with the legend that the church was saved by a miracle around 1650 when the Turkish commander of the Acropolis, Yusuf, bombed the church. The church was restored in the 1960s by the architect D. Pikionis. Another highlight of visiting Philopappou Hill is the chance to take in spectacular views of the Parthenon from this location.

Location: Philopappou Hill, Athens

If you are looking for things to do at night in Athens, head over to the Mnisikleous Street stairs. Restaurants line this set of stairs on the top end of Mnisikleous Street, drawing a crowd in the evenings.

The restaurants vary in quality, although some are quite good, but the atmosphere here is hard to beat. It's extremely casual and relaxed. In fact, when the tables are full, people take to sitting on cushions on the stone stairs, and small knee-high wooden benches are brought out and placed on the stairs, creating an impromptu table. People are often tightly packed in, making for an intimate and friendly experience.

Sometimes a visit to Athens can feel like an overdose on history. To alleviate that condition, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art. This institution is the cultural epicenter of Athens and is home to a constant stream of temporary exhibits showcasing the latest in art innovation.

In addition to the visiting exhibitions, the museum has an impressive permanent collection of 172 pieces on display. These items were created by 78 different artists, both domestic and international, along two specific topics requested by the museum.

The total collection of the museum consists of 1,300 pieces, most of them in paintings and photography.

As you stand on and gaze out over Athens from the Acropolis, you may wonder what the hill in the distance is. That would be Lycabettus Hill, and it's well worth a visit. The view from the top of Lycabettus Hill is one of the best in Athens.

At 227 meters in height, it's the highest point in the city and provides a unique view down upon the Acropolis. The funicular operates well into the night (12 to 1:30am depending on the season), so a trip up here at night to see the city lights and the Acropolis fully lit is highly recommended. Or, if you find yourself there during the day, take a bit of time to soak it all in by grabbing a cold drink or a bite to eat at the restaurant at the top.

You can walk to the top if you really want to, or as most people do, take the three-minute ride on the funicular .

Official site: https://www.lycabettushill.com/

If you are looking to get off the well-trodden tourist path in Athens and see how true Athenians live, set your alarm to get up early and head to the Varvakios Agora. Located in the Monastiraki neighborhood, this fresh food market is an experience unlike any in Athens.

The bounty of the sea and farm are on full display, with the lively sellers hawking their goods to locals and tourists alike. In another building nearby, fruit, vegetables, and, of course, olives are on sale. Small restaurants are located on the premises, offering cheap, tasty, and filling meals. Take some time to wander the aisles and soak up the atmosphere, and be sure to bring your camera!

The Philopappos Monument is only an 800-meter walk southwest of the Acropolis and well worth the pleasant stroll to get there. The area, known as Pynx Hill , is an oasis of green with mature cypress and pine trees and makes for a pleasant escape from the crowds and concrete.

The monument dates from the 2nd century AD and is adorned with incredible bas-relief depictions of Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos.

The monument is set on a high point with views back towards the Parthenon, Acropolis , and city sights.

As you gaze down from the Acropolis you may wonder to yourself what all those people are doing on that bald white rock outcrop located nearby. Well, they've climbed up to the top of the Areopagus to enjoy the panoramic views of the Acropolis and the surrounding cityscapes.

Easily reached via winding pathways through cypress bushes and an ancient marble staircase, this outcrop is a popular destination for those looking to do a short hike as part of their Athenian exploration. Areopagus is also a very popular spot to enjoy the sunset and to capture images of the Acropolis and other ancient sights at night when they are softly lit.

Although the hilltop is barren except for the ruins of a church, it was once the site of the supreme council of ancient Athens. The site is free to access and open 24 hours a day .

For a deeper dive into the culture that spawned all the history that surrounds you, step inside the doors of the Benaki Museum. Housed in a spectacular Neoclassical-style mansion, the collection spans the centuries starting with the ancient Greek artifacts and ultimately right through to the 20th Century.

In addition to the priceless treasures found here, the building itself is an attraction worth learning about as it transitioned from a private residence into the museum you see today.

The Benaki Museum showcases a regular rotation of temporary exhibits in the Spyridon & Eurydice Costopoulos Gallery.

Official Site: https://www.benaki.org/index.php?lang=en

The best place to stay in Athens is near the Acropolis in the Plaka or Anafiotika neighborhoods. This will put you in the center of the action and within walking distance of the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Library of Hadrian, and Syntagma Square. Both neighborhoods are picturesque and quaint, with narrow pedestrian-only streets, many restaurants, and interesting shops. Below are some highly-rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian Zeus and many good restaurants, the boutique AVA Hotel Athens offers quaint and cozy suites with kitchenettes.
• The O&B Athens Boutique Hotel is a 10-minute walk to the Acropolis and features modern rooms and a spectacular rooftop patio with amazing views.
• The elegant Grande Bretagne Hotel , with a well-regarded rooftop restaurant, is set in a prime location that it has occupied since 1874.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The appropriately named Plaka Hotel offers good rooms in a great location, and the rooftop patio has views to the Acropolis. Free coffee and tea are on offer all day long.
• The Hermes Hotel in the Plaka is newly renovated and just a two-minute walk to the attractions of Syntagma Square.
• On a quiet side street, the Central Hotel has also been recently renovated and offers modern, comfortable rooms and a hot breakfast. It's a 15-minute walk from the Acropolis, and the view from the rooftop patio is quite spectacular.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Acropolis House is a good budget option with an excellent location close to attractions, and the shops of the pedestrian-only Ermou Street are a short stroll away. This is a historic property, and rooms are dated but come in an assortment of sizes. Some rooms have their own bathrooms, but others come with their own bathroom located down the hall. Guests have their own key to their private washrooms.
• The Hotel Metropolis has been recently renovated and provides rooms with balconies, some facing the Acropolis.
• See the Sights: For maximum sightseeing flexibility and value, it's hard to beat the City Sightseeing Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Tour . Accompanied by an audio commentary, you can cruise around Athens in an open-top double-decker bus, hopping on and off at any of the 14 stops to spend more time at your favorite attractions, such as the Acropolis or the Plaka. If you only have a few hours to see the highlights of Athens, the Athens Half-Day Sightseeing Tour blends both the city's ancient and modern attractions. An expert guide takes you to see top sites such as the Tomb of the Unknown, the Acropolis, and the Pantheon. This 3.5-hour tour includes admission to the Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum (optional), hotel pickup, and free Wi-Fi on the coach.
• Delphi Day Trip: If you want to complement your Athens tour by exploring historic monuments further afield, consider the Delphi Day Trip . This full-day tour takes you to this World Heritage-listed archaeological site to see the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archeological Museum. On your way home, you have a chance to explore the picturesque towns of Arachova and Levadia. Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, free Wi-Fi, and entrance fees.
• Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip: Stunning scenery and hilltop ruins are the highlights of the Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip . This full-day guided adventure includes a beautiful drive along the Saronic Gulf and into the Peloponnese to see the hilltop ruins of Mycenae as well as a visit to Epidaurus, the birthplace of Apollo's son, and the picturesque town of Nauplia. Also included are entrance fees, a professional guide, free Wi-Fi on the coach, and a map.
• Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Day Trip : See one of Athens' most famous monuments on the Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip . Traveling in an air-conditioned coach, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic drive to Cape Sounion to see the remains of the clifftop Temple of Poseidon, overlooking the sea, while an experienced guide shares information about its history. This four-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, entrance fees, and free Wi-Fi on the coach.

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For many people, Athens is simply a gateway to the Greek Islands or destinations to the north. If you are planning your trip, below are some ideas to help find places to visit in Greece.

Greek Islands: The most famous and popular of the Greek Islands is Santorini . If this is your first excursion to the Greek Islands, it should be on your itinerary. Also very popular is Crete . This is a large island with many things to see and do, so be sure to include more than a day or two if you are planning on stopping here. Other ideas for Greek islands include Corfu , Rhodes , Samos , and Mykonos.

Exploring Greece: The rich history of Greece extends far beyond Athens, but the remains of the Temple of Apollo in Corinth and the seat of the oracle at Delphi are within the reach of a day trip. Another highlight is the monasteries above the rock formations at Metéora . For more ideas, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions in Greece .

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Athens Ancient Sites

A walk will allow you to admire many important ancient sites in Athens , dating back to Classical antiquity and Roman times.

The Acropolis

The Acropolis, also called the Sacred Rock , is the most important ancient heritage of the country. It is also the trademark and most famous site of Greece. It has been the main attraction of Athens since the 5th century BC and is dedicated to Athena, the Olympian goddess of wisdom and protector of the city. The Parthenon, the most famous ancient Greek temple ever, stands proudly over the modern megalopolis, serving as a recollection of the great civilization and development the city has undergone. The Acropolis is conspicuous in almost every neighborhood of Athens. It was and still is, without any doubt, the ultimate achievement of the city's architectural glory.

Theatre of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is one of the most impressive monuments of Athens and it is today hosting the Athens Epidaurus Festival with performances of theatre, music, and dance. The theatre is open to visitors only during performances. It is located on the south slope of the Acropolis and opened in 161 AD during Roman rule. The theatre was built by Herodes Atticus, a wealthy Roman, in memory of his wife Regilla. It has exceptional acoustic capacity and can host up to 5,000 spectators. It has a 28-meter-high and 2,4-meter-wide facade.

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Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos

Despite its central location, this site is one of the greenest places in Athens. Kerameikos was the cemetery of Athens from the 12th century BC to the Roman Times. One can also visit the museum which houses steles, sculptures, vases, and figurines found on the site.

Filopappou Hill

The Hill of the Muses, located southwest of the imposing Acropolis, is popularly referred to as Filopappou Hill. From this place, one can bask in the uninterrupted views of the Acropolis and the majestic Parthenon.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the commercial, trading, administrative and social center of Athens. During the classical era, many admirable men like Socrates, Sophocles and Aristotle used to spend their time there and express thoughts and ideas. It is said that Saint Paul was present in the Agora in 49 AD. The most important sights in the Ancient Agora are the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.

Stoa of Attalos

The Museum of Ancient Agora is housed in the replica of the Stoa of Attalos. Findings from the area are displayed as well as an interesting reproduction of the Agora in Antiquity. The original Stoa was built by King Attalos II in 159 BC and used to be the shelter of expensive shops for wealthy Athenian customers.

Temple of Hephaestus

The Temple of Hephaestus is the best-preserved Doric temple in Greece. It was dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of the forge, hence the reason why the temple used to be in the center of numerous metalwork shops and foundries. It was built during Pericles ' rebuilding program.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus took 700 years of construction to complete. The work was completed by Emperor Hadrian in 131 AD. The huge temple is composed of 104 Corinthian columns with a height of 17 meters each. Very little is left of his greatness today since only 17 columns are still standing.

Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic (or Kallimarmaro) Stadium was built in the 4th century BC. It used to host the Panathenaic Athletic contests. Herodes Atticus inaugurated the stadium when he rebuilt the seats with Pentelic marble. The stadium was abandoned for centuries but was restored in order to welcome the first modern Olympic Games (1896 Summer Olympics).

Temple of Poseidon

The Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion, the southernmost spot of Attica, was built in the 5th century BC and a part of it has survived until today. This is one of the most famous ancient sites in Athens and many consider it the most romantic spot in Attica.

Roman Agora

The Roman Agora is located in Monastiraki and used to be a shopping place ( agora is the Greek word for market). The Tower of Winds , an octagonal structure made of Pentelic marble, is the most renowned monument of the Agora. It was built during the 1st century by astronomer Andronicus and was used as a sundial, a weather vane, a water clock, and even a compass. Its relief decoration represents the god of winds, Aeolus, hence the name of the tower.

Arch of Hadrian

The Arch of Hadrian was built by Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD in order to mark the limit between Ancient Athens and the new city. It is located at the end of Amalias Avenue.

Library of Hadrian

The Library of Hadrian is located in the north of Roman Agora. In ancient times, it housed books, music and lecture rooms.

Theatre of Dionysus

The Theatre of Dionysus is the oldest theatre in Athens. It is located on the southeastern slope of the Acropolis. There once used to be an older theatre from the 6th century BC, located at the same place that had welcomed the Great Dionysia Festival. The festival was of great cultural importance and welcomed great playwrights such as Sophocles and Euripides. The theatre was later renovated with marble and gained a capacity of 17,000 seats. Unfortunately, not much is left for guests to admire today.

Monument of Lysicrates

The Monument of Lysicrates is located on Lysicrates Square in Plaka. It was erected by the choregos (sponsor) Lysicrates to commemorate the first prize in one of the performances he had sponsored.

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9 Important Historic Sites in Athens You Have to Visit!

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The place where Western civilization all began, Athens is brimming with ancient, fascinating places just waiting to be explored. From huge ruins that were once bustling marketplaces to incredibly well-maintained statues that are millennia old, all of the incredible historic sites in Athens will leave you speechless and desperate to find out more. 

Although these Athens landmarks are definitely must-visit places during your trip, many lack accompanying information that would help you make sense of the place and understand its importance. 

Because of that, I suggest you follow up your visit with some time at the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum . These iconic buildings are treasure troves of knowledge and will help you gain a much deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture.

I haven’t included the Acropolis in this list because the Acropolis is the name of the ancient complex on top of the hill that contains the Parthenon and many other historic buildings. It’s not a singular historic site itself, but rather a collection of them. 

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, it’s time to explore the most important historic sites in Athens! 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

9 Must-Visit Historic Sites in Athens 

1. parthenon.

One of the most famous landmarks in Athens, the Parthenon is a spectacular temple that forms part of the Acropolis. It’s perched high up on a huge plateau and is visible from almost every part of the city. 

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, this iconic structure was built between 447 BC and 438 BC and originally housed a giant ivory and gold statue in her honor. Although the statue is no longer there today, you can still admire the towering marble columns and take in the amazing panoramic vistas that span the entire city.

For a phenomenal view of the Parthenon, I suggest grabbing drinks from a rooftop bar – my favorite is Mappemonde Restaurant Bar & Lounge on top of the Hotel Athens Capital. There’s a chic pool to cool off in during the day and a sophisticated restaurant to dine at in the evening. Do what I do – order yourself the signature Capital Lady cocktail and lose yourself in the surrounding views!  

2. Temple of Athena Nike

The Temple of Athena Nike is one of those Athens attractions that a lot of people miss out on – even though they probably walk right past it! This beautiful structure is the smallest temple in the Acropolis and was originally a place where people came to pray for victory over the Spartans during the Peloponnesian War.

I love the friezes on the parapets here. My favorite is the one in which you can see Nike adjusting her sandal. It doesn’t sound that impressive, but it’s staggeringly beautiful, especially considering that it was made more than 2,000 years ago when tools were incredibly basic.

The Nike sandal frieze at the Temple of Athena Nike is actually a replica. If you want to see the original (as well as plenty of other spectacular pieces of history from the Acropolis), visit the Acropolis Museum. 

3. Erechtheion

One of the most impressive ancient ruins in Athens, the Erechtheion is found on the northern side of the Acropolis and was built in honor of both Athena and Poseidon. From one side, the temple looks like many others scattered throughout the city. But walk around to the Porch of the Maidens side and you’ll be left speechless by the work of art you see before you.

This incredibly delicate yet solid feature is made up of six statue-like columns depicting women known as caryatids. They’re the only thing holding up the roof of the temple! 

Their dramatic hairstyles piled high up on their heads was cleverly incorporated to offer better support for the temple’s structure. The carving is so realistic that you’d swear the women were wearing actual robes made out of material and not marble. 

4. Church of St. Eleftherios

Also known as Panagia Gorgoepikoos, the Church of St. Eleftherios is one of the lesser-known historic sites in Athens, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Athens, this charming Byzantine church stands in the peaceful Psiri neighborhood and is likely to be one of the smallest places of worship you’ll ever see!

Built in the 12th century, this pint-sized gem is made up of mostly marble with a small domed roof. Walk around the outside and you’ll spot an unusual mismatch of ancient gods and medieval beasts. 

I suggest you admire the church from the outside for a few minutes and skip going inside. While there are some original frescoes, they’re in such terrible condition that you can’t really enjoy them.

5. Panathenaic Stadium

It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re into ancient history – the Panathenaic Stadium is one of those famous landmarks in Athens that is almost certain to get you excited. Built on the site of the first modern Olympic games, this colossal stadium is the only one in the world that’s made entirely out of marble.

For a great picture, I suggest you seek out the podium. Here you can stand on the winner’s spot and have your picture taken inside a real Olympic stadium! 

Head to the very back of the structure and climb to the highest point. From here, you’ve got a spectacular view of the complete stadium, as well as Mount Lycabettus. If you’re feeling energetic, you can even join in with a group jogging session every morning between 7:30 am and 9 am.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Located in the very heart of the city, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the most central of the ancient ruins in Athens. During its heyday, this phenomenal temple would have been the largest in ancient Athens, if not the world! As you can guess from the name, the imposing structure was dedicated to Zeus, head of the Olympian gods. 

Sadly, only a small amount of what would have been a remarkably impressive building remains to this day. In this 21st century, the Temple of Olympian Zeus boasts 16 surviving columns that date back to the 6th century BC. Back then, this important temple took more than 600 years to complete and was overseen by several different rulers.

An enormous ivory and gold statue of Zeus sitting on his throne was the highlight of the temple when it was constructed. Google a picture of it before you go, and you’ll have a good idea of how huge and astounding it must have been when you’re there.

7. Ancient Agora of Athens

One of my favorite Athens attractions, the Ancient Agora of Athens was once a sprawling marketplace where locals would buy and sell all sorts of things thousands of years ago. The place is just as large today as it was when it was constructed and almost all the foundations are still in place, making it easy to imagine exactly how it looked more than five centuries ago. 

There are many extraordinary things to see within the Ancient Agora of Athens if you know where to look. Here are some of my favorites that I definitely recommend you check out:

• The Klepsydra – a water clock that was used to time speeches
• The remains of the statue of the Roman Emperor Hadrian from 117 AD
• The Hephaisteion – the friezes and engravings on and around the ceiling are amazing

8. Theater of Herodes Atticus

When you think you’re done visiting the Acropolis, walk down the southwestern slope and take a look at the Theater of Herodes Atticus. One of the best Athens landmarks that many people miss, this important structure may be more modern than many others in the area, but that doesn’t take away from its significance.

The open-air theater was opened to the public in 161 AD and hosted countless musical performances. This tradition is one the theater has held onto, with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Luciano Pavarotti, Elton John, and Sting having played here in the last century.

Music performances still take place here to this day. If you’re planning on visiting during the summer when the Athens and Epidaurus Festival is going on, I absolutely recommend you snap up tickets for a performance!

9. Temple of Hephaestus

If you’re looking for the best-preserved ancient ruins in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus should definitely be on your list. This grand temple has been remarkably well taken care of and is in much better condition than almost any other ancient structure in the city. When you stand in front of it, you’ll struggle to believe that it’s almost 2,500 years old! 

The temple was originally dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of fire, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom, strategy, and crafts. But in the 7th century, it was transformed into a church, a decision that had a major impact on how well looked after the building has been since. 

Take a look at the eastern front of the temple, and you’ll see fantastic sculptures depicting the battle of Theseus and the labors of Hercules. The west side of the temple is dedicated to sculptures that show the fall of Troy. 

There you have it! My guide to visiting the most important historic sites in Athens. What are your favorite ancient ruins in Athens? 

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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An Insider’s Guide to Greek Ruins in Athens

by Sophia C.

Last Updated: May 28, 2024

A trip to Athens wouldn’t be complete without visiting Greek and Roman ruins, but can you tell them apart? Don’t worry, we’ll take you through the most important Greek ruins Athens has to offer. 

Exploring ruins in Athens could keep you occupied for weeks, but if you only have time to see the highlights, here are the best Greek ruins in Athens you can’t leave without seeing. 

Table of Contents

What are the most important Greek ruins in Athens?

Athens is a city with layers and overlapping layers of history– it has been inhabited since the 11th millennium B.C.. Dozens of wonders from ancient times still make up the terrain of the modern city, and ruins peek out of almost every corner and neighborhood. 

We’ve gathered our list of top ancient Greek ruins in Athens to give you an insider guide to the most impressive and important Greek ruins you can see in the city. Let’s start with perhaps the most famous – the Acropolis.

What exactly is the Acropolis?

The Acropolis ( Athens, 105 58 ) is an ancient citadel that presides over all of Athens– atop the sheer cliff face stand monumental columns which are visible from the streets and cafes and parks for miles. It is the heart of the modern city, as it was the ancient one. 

The Acropolis is the name of the hill, also called the Sacred Rock, but the site is made up of several different ruins clustered together, each which served a different purpose. If you begin your walk in the neighborhood of Plaka , you will hit each of these incredible structures one by one. Some of the most impressive are:

The Theater of Dionysus

This ancient theater is located right inside the entrance of the Acropolis archaeological site, on the lower sloping sides of the hill. Performances were put on during the festival of Dionysus, and thus this ancient theater is where almost every ancient Greek play premiered– the great works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides were all put on here.  

The Propylaea was the main entrance to the Acropolis of Athens and was the pathway up to the ancient citadel tread by the ceremonial Panathenaic Way procession. Today you too can walk through the great marble columns on your way up to the top.

Temple of Athena Nike

Don’t miss that off to the side of the Propylaea you will see the Temple of Athena Nike. This is dedicated to Athena in her form as a goddess of victory and is held up by curling ionic columns.

The most majestic and most important building on the Acropolis is the Parthenon. This ancient temple to Athena is almost fully intact and will truly take your breath away with the magnitude of the columns. The temple was made up of almost 22,000 tons of marble brought in from nearby Mt. Pentelus.

Erechtheion

This smaller temple on the North side of the Acropolis was also dedicated to Athena. It is most famous for its Caryatid columns– columns sculpted in the shape of four women bearing the weight of the building atop their intricately carved heads. 

The unique monument of Lysicrates

The monument of Lysicrates is located not far from the Acropolis and stands alone amongst more modern buildings. It is the only surviving example of a choragic monument–a monument built to commemorate the winner of an ancient Greek choral prize . 

This one was dedicated to Lysicrates in 334 BC. The monument has small marble columns arranged in a circle on top of a pedestal. Above that is a delicately carved frieze showing a favorite story from Greek mythology of the god Dionysus turning some pirates into dolphins. 

The sprawling cemetery of Kerameikos

Kerameikos ( Ermou, 148 ) archaeological site is home to Greece’s largest ancient cemetery . This lesser-known attraction has hundreds of tombs and grave-markers that illuminate not just how the ancient Athenians died, but also how they lived . 

Inside the site are also two monumental gates that the Athenians used as starting points for two of their most important festivals. Kerameikos is a perfect spot for a visit if you’re a bit tired of the busy streets around the Acropolis, and looking to enjoy some ancient history along with some greenery.  

Greek Agora : The bustling center of Ancient Athens

The Ancient Greek Agora ( Athens, 105 55 ) was the political, economic, and legal center of ancient Athens . In the Agora juries debated, courts were tried, wares were traded, and laws were created.

Today, ruins of these structures remain, some restored to superb condition. We think the most impressive is the Stoa of Attalos, once an ancient market, now fully restored into a museum and archaeological research center. 

On the opposite side of the Agora, out in the open air, you can see the temple of Hephaestus, one of the best preserved Doric temples in the country. If you compare the temple of Hephaestus to the Acropolis you will notice several similarities in style and construction. 

Filopappos Hill : A walk in the park amongst history

Not far from the Agora is Filopappos Hill, also called the hill of the muses . The hill and the surrounding valley have been made into a large park with little footpaths curling around the trees and ruins. We recommend strolling around and listening to the music buskers often stationed around the area before climbing up the steep inclines. 

Once you make it to the top of Filopappos, you will see a monument to a monument the exiled Roman Prince Gaius Julius Antichus Philopappos of Commagene, as well as incomparable views– of the Acropolis, the sprawling buildings of Athens, and the Aegean Sea to the south . 

On your way back down you can also check out a small building said to be the prison where Socrates, the great Greek philosopher died.

Run an Olympic lap at the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium , also known as the Kallimarmaro or “good marble” stadium is a bit outside of the path most tourists tread. This marble amphitheater was first built to host the Panathenaic Games, a sporting competition that honored the goddess Athena in her eponymous city, Athens. 

The stadium originally had bleachers made of wooden seats, but it was renovated several times– first in 329 BC, then in 140 BC, and finally in 1986 AD to host the first modern Olympic games. The modern Athens marathon concludes in this stadium every year. On days without sporting events, you can take a jog around the track yourself, or ascend to the nose-bleed seats to catch a clear view of the Acropolis. 

Seeing all these ancient Greek ruins jutting up from the geography of modern Athens is one of our favorite things about this city. It’s truly stirring seeing what the ancient Greeks accomplished, and the way these monuments still stand and rule over the city today. 

Related Reading:

• Make sure you also check out our guide to the best Roman ruins in Athens . There are hundreds of years’ worth of monuments, temples, and structures amongst and on top of the ancient Greek ones.

Want to get an insider’s guide to the Acropolis, explore ancient Agoras, and visit the Plaka neighborhood like a local? Then consider coming along with us on our Best of Athens City Tour: First Entry Acropolis Tour, Ancient Agoras & Plaka Walk . Our local guides will lead you through the footsteps of ancient philosophers and statesmen, and create a truly unforgettable experience.

About the author

Sophia is a Greek-American travel writer from Ohio, USA. Though born and raised in the United States, her roots trace back to Greece and Cyprus through her parents. While she now calls Spain her home and workplace, she frequently visits her family back in Greece, immersing herself in the richness of Greek gastronomy and culture.

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The 12 Best Places To Visit In Athens, Greece

Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Natalia

As one of the oldest cities in the world, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in Athens, Greece. It’s a travel destination not to be missed for history lovers, with a vast array of majestic ruins to visit, including the world-famous Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. On top of that the city is home to quaint neighbourhoods, stunning viewpoints and museums, as well as being perfectly located for some fabulous day trips around Greece. We spent two weeks exploring Athens, whilst also taking the opportunity to  gorge on the delicious local cuisine. Read on to discover our verdict on the best places to visit in Athens, Greece.

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in Athens

The Acropolis is a must visit place and undoubtedly the most famous site in all of Athens. Perched on top of a hill in the city centre, this ancient citadel is home to some of the oldest ruins in the city. The ruins of the Acropolis date back to the 5th century BC, and are a must see when visiting Athens.

Of all the structures found at the Acropolis, the Parthenon is the most well-known. The Parthenon is a former temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, whom the city of Athens was named after.

Construction of the temple began in 447 BC and continued until 432 BC. As with many of the structures at the Acropolis, the Parthenon has suffered substantial damage over the years.

Although the Parthenon is the most famous site at the Acropolis, there are a number of other ruins to visit, including the Theatre of Dionysus, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Another spot to visit is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a theatre dating back to the 2nd Century. The theatre is still used today, although it is cordoned off so that you can only access it if you have tickets to a performance. Fortunately you can still get a good vantage point of it from the southwest slope of the Acropolis.

Tickets to the Acropolis of Athens cost €20 per person during the summer season (1st April-31st October), but are available at a reduced rate of €10 per person during the winter season (1st November-31st March.)

Reduced rate tickets are available for €10 during summer and €5 during winter if you are a university student or are over 65 years old and from an EU member state. Better yet, free tickets are available for under 18s, although free tickets cannot be booked in advance.

During the summer queues can get up to two hours long, especially at the weekends, so it’s best to buy your ticket online in advance if you can. Click here to head to the Acropolis ticketing website, which also has further information on eligibility for the reduced rate and free tickets.

If you plan to visit other ruins in Athens then you can buy a combined ticket costing €30. The combined ticket allows one admission per site to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Olympieion, Kerameikos and Aristotle’s School.

These tickets are valid for 5 days, allowing you to spend your time exploring the different ruins. Reduced combined tickets are available for just €15 for students and seniors. Unfortunately there is no reduction in the price of a combined ticket during winter.

On certain days of the year there is free admission to the Acropolis and other ruins in Athens. The dates do vary from year to year, so it’s important to check them before your trip.

If you want to book your tickets in advance then another option is to book them via Get Your Guide, which we recommend doing as it’s such an iconic place to visit in Athens. One of the best options is to book a ticket which allows you to skip the queue as well as have a digital audio tour on your phone to give you more information about the ruins. These tickets do cost more than standard entry, but are available from just €29.50 per person.

Click here to book skip-the-line Acropolis tickets with an audio guide!

Alternatively, you can book a guided tour of the Acropolis for around €14 more. Guided tours last 90 minutes and are a brilliant way to find out more about the incredible history of the ruins.

They can be booked in advance through Get Your Guide for just €43, which includes skip-the-line entry to the Acropolis as well as an hour and a half guided tour. At the conclusion of the tour you will have the chance to explore the ruins without the guide too if you’d like to stay for longer!

Click here to book a 90 minute guided tour of the Acropolis!

There are two entrances to the Acropolis – the main entrance and the side entrance. Both entrances require some uphill walking to reach the ruins, but we recommend using the side entrance as it is less busy and also isn’t as far away from the main ruins. We recommend reading this article on the different entrances to the Acropolis before you visit.

Restoration works have been underway at the Acropolis since 1975, but as of 2017 they have slowed down significantly. Although the works have slowed, construction may still partially obstruct sections of the Parthenon and other ruins. During our visit in early 2019 one side of the Parthenon was blocked by construction, but the majority of it could still be enjoyed without obstruction. Despite the works the Acropolis is still one of the top tourist destinations and things to see in Athens!

Ancient Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens was once the heart of the city, acting as a marketplace and meeting point for Athenians. In similar fashion to the Roman Forum in Rome , the Agora is a large archaeological site home to a range of ruins, with two of the most notable being the Hephaisteion and the Stoa of Attalos.

Also known as the Temple of Hephaestus, the Hephaisteion is a beautiful temple that dates back to the 5th century BC. The Stoa of Attalos is a covered walkway that was once home to a number of shops, making it the ancient equivalent of a shopping mall.

With so many different ruins and artefacts to see, you can easily spend a few hours exploring the Agora. Although it isn’t as iconic as the Acropolis, it’s still a fascinating place to visit thanks to its rich history.

Entrance tickets to the Ancient Agora of Athens cost €8 between 1st April to 31st October, but are available at a reduced rate of €4 outside of these dates. Students and seniors are able to get reduced rate tickets for €4 all year round.

Panathenaic stadium

One of the top places to visit in Athens is the immense Panathenaic stadium – the main venue for the first modern day Olympic Games in 1896. The original stadium on the site opened in 330 BC before being abandoned during the 4th century.

Following excavations in the 19th century the stadium was rebuilt in time for the 1896 Olympic Games. It held both the opening and closing ceremonies of the games, as well as being the venue for 4 of the 9 contested events. As of 2019, the Panathenaic stadium is still the only stadium in the world to be built entirely from marble.

Built in a horseshoe shape, the stadium has an external length of 268 metres and width of 34 metres. In the past the Panathenaic stadium had a maximum capacity of 80,000 spectators, but its current capacity is 45,000-50,000.

In our opinion it’s a simply unmissable spot to visit on any trip to Athens, thanks to the stadium’s significance in the history of the Olympic Games.

The Panathenaic Stadium was again used as a venue during the 2004 Olympic Games, hosting the archery as well as being the finish point for the marathon. Before every Olympics, the stadium hosts the handover ceremony for the Olympic flame to be passed from the previous host nation to the next one.

On top of this, it is still sometimes used for other sporting events, and during our visit in early 2019 there was a school sports day taking place in the stadium. Concerts also take place at the stadium, with R.E.M. and Depeche Mode having played there previously.

Tickets to visit the Panathenaic stadium cost €5, although students and seniors are able to gain entrance for a reduced rate of €2.50. Unlike some of the other attractions in Athens, entrance to the stadium costs the same rate throughout the year, and so it isn’t possible to visit for less during the winter months.

Entrance to the stadium includes a free audio guide as well as access to a museum with previous Olympic games posters, torches and more.

Philopappos Hill

Philopappos Hill is one of the best places to visit for sunset in Athens. Thanks to the hill’s central location, it’s the perfect spot to watch day turn to night as it provides wonderful views of both the Acropolis and the whole city.

The walk up isn’t too strenuous, and only takes around 15-minutes from bottom to top. At the top of the hill you will find the Philopappos monument – an ancient Greek mausoleum dedicated to Philopappus, a prince from the Kingdom of Commagene.

Although sunset is the best time to visit, it’s still a lovely place to see at any time of day thanks to the incredible views. If possible, it’s well worth planning your day so that you can be here for sunset. With a bit of luck you’ll be treated to a vibrant sky alongside the most stunning views of Athens and the Acropolis.

After nightfall the Acropolis illuminated, so make sure to wait until you see it lit up before descending the hill as it’s one of the things not to miss in Athens!

Lycabettus hill

At 277 metres above sea level, Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens. Sometimes referred to as Mount Lycabettus, it’s a brilliant place to visit for sunset as you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the whole city.

Visiting the hill for sunset is definitely one of the best things to do in Athens at night. That being said, the stunning views mean it’s a brilliant spot to visit at any time of day.

There are two options to get to the top of Lycabettus Hill – take the funicular or walk. We personally opted to hike to the top during our visit, but as we visited early in the year it wasn’t too hot.

During the summer months walking can be particularly tough due to the heat, so make sure to stay well hydrated if you plan to walk up on a hot day! If it’s a really hot day then we suggest taking the funicular railway to the top.

A funicular is a kind of train used for going up and down steep inclines, making it an ideal way to get to the top of the hill. The Lycabettus Hill funicular costs €5 for a one-way journey or €7 for a return trip. It runs at least once every 30 minutes between 9am and 2.30am, and during peak times it sometimes runs as often as every 10 minutes.

Unfortunately the funicular runs inside a closed tunnel so you don’t get any views on the way up, but it isn’t long before you get to enjoy the views from the top!

If you’d prefer to walk to the top it isn’t too tough a walk. In total it took us around 30 minutes to reach the top from the nearby Evangelismos metro station. Although it can be fairly steep at times, if you have a moderate level of fitness the walk to the top should take no longer than an hour at most.

When at the top you can see why this made our list of one of the best places to visit in Athens as well as Greece!

Whichever way you choose to get to the top, there are a number of incredible viewpoints to enjoy. If you’re visiting at sunset we recommend being at the top at least half an hour before so that you can walk around and appreciate the different vantage points.

As sunset approaches the very top viewing platform of Lycabettus Hill can get extremely crowded, so it can be worth walking back down the hill slightly to find a quieter spot away from the crowds.

Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, Plaka is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Athens. It’s the oldest neighbourhood in the city and is made up of narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional tavernas and souvenir stores.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Neighbourhood of the Gods’, Plaka is a lovely area to wander around to soak up the atmosphere, both during the day and night.

One of the best places to visit is the tiny Anafiotika neighbourhood, located at the top of the hill in Plaka, despite being in the centre of Athens, the neighbourhood feels more like it belongs on one of the Greek islands.

It’s a very scenic and charming spot to visit, and is definitely one of the city’s hidden gems. Although Plaka itself can be over-commercialised at times, Anafiotika is a quiet and peaceful escape that’s well worth visiting.

Syntagma Square is the central square of modern day Athens. The square is easy to reach by public transport, with 2 of the city’s 3 metro lines stopping at Syntagma station. Due to the square’s central location, it’s common for it to get busy with a mix of both tourists and locals.

Directly adjacent to the square is the Greek Parliament Building, known as the Hellenic Parliament. One of the main things to do in Syntagma Square is to watch the changing of the guards at the parliament building.

The main changing of the guard ceremony in Athens, known as the Grand Change, takes place on Sundays at the parliament building. Many websites report that this takes place at 11am, but on our visit we arrived at around 10.30am to find it was already underway. We recommend arriving prior to 10.30am to ensure you’re there before the ceremony starts.

Thanks to the central location of Syntagma Square, many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance. On top of that, there are a number of restaurants, bars and hotels nearby, making it a great area of the city to stay.

Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Athens and is best-known for being one of the city’s main shopping districts. The best place to start your visit to the neighbourhood is Monastiraki square, which is home to the Tzistarakis Mosque and the Church of the Pantanassa. Like many squares in the city centre, it is a hub of activity and so can be quite busy.

In terms of shopping, the area is home to a mix of boutiques, souvenir shops and specialty stores. One of the best times to visit Monastiraki is during the Sunday flea market. As with most flea markets there is a mix of antiques and unique souvenirs as well as some junk you probably won’t be interested in at all!

If shopping isn’t really your thing then you may prefer to visit one of the rooftop bars near to Monastiraki Square. You can choose between A for Athens or 360 Cocktail Bar, both of which have wonderful views overlooking the Acropolis and the square. They’re great spots to enjoy a drink with some of the most memorable views in Athens.

The neighbourhood is easily accessible by Metro as the Monastiraki Metro station serves both lines 1 and 3. Close-by to the metro station you will find the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, which you are able to visit using the combined Acropolis ticket if you wish.

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is one of the top tourist attractions and places to visit in Athens. It showcases a collection of artefacts found at the Acropolis and its surrounding slopes, dating from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece.

The museum is built on top of an archaeological site, and so the floor is often transparent to allow visitors to see the ruins below, for those looking for a cultural thing to do in Athens this is one of the spots to visit!

Between 1st April and 31st October tickets to the Acropolis Museum cost €10 at full price or €5 at the reduced rate, and between 1st November and 31st March tickets are €5 or €3 at the reduced rate.

Tickets for the Acropolis Museum can be brought via Get Your Guide. 

One option is to purchase a skip-the-line ticket , and another is to book a guided tour of the museum to learn even more about the fascinating history!

Roman Agora

Just north of the Acropolis you will find the Roman Agora, which was the city’s market area whilst under Roman rule. Believed to be built during the 2nd or 1st Century BC, the Roman Agora is substantially smaller than the Ancient Agora, which means you don’t need to plan as long for your visit.

Much of the Roman Agora can be seen through fences without paying the entrance fee, but if you have the combined Acropolis ticket then entry is included and so it’s worth going in for a closer look. Points of interest in the Roman Agora include the Tower of the Winds, the Fethiye Mosque and the Gate of Athena Archegetis, which served as the entrance to the market.

If you want to visit but do not have a combined ticket then the entrance fee to the Roman Agora is €6 between 1st April and 31st October, and €3 outside of these months.

Athens Olympic Sports Complex

If you’re looking for places to go outside central Athens then we recommend visiting the Athens Olympic Sports Complex, also referred to as OAKA. The complex was used for the 2004 Olympic Games, and is home to the Main Olympic Stadium in Athens – not to be confused with the Panathenaic stadium.

Today the complex is largely unused and abandoned, although some locals do still use the area for jogging, rollerblading and more.

One of the main reasons to visit is the beautifully designed arches, which are perfect for wandering underneath and getting some brilliant photos too. It’s a nice spot to relax and it also gives you the chance to see the Main Olympic Stadium from the 2004 games.

The stadium is home to AEK Athens Football Club , and has previously hosted the Champions League Final in 2007, as well as concerts from the likes of U2, Michael Jackson and Bon Jovi.

The Olympic Sports Complex is easy to reach as you can take line 1 to the Irini metro station, which is located directly adjacent to the complex. In our opinion visiting the complex is one of the more interesting non touristy things to do in Athens.

Free Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a different way to discover the city then we recommend taking a free walking tour. These tours are a great chance to learn about the history of both Athens and Greece whilst you get a feel for the city.

Tours run every day at 9.30am, and can be booked by visiting the Athens free walking tour website. The length of tours can vary slightly depending on how many questions your group has, but normally they last around 2 to 2 and half hours.

Unfortunately we didn’t get chance to do the free walking tour in Athens, but we did do a similar one in Bucharest and we found it absolutely fascinating. The reviews of the Athens walking tour on TripAdvisor are great, so we’re sure this tour is one of the top things to do in Athens.

Although the tours are free, if you enjoy the tour and have enough money to give a tip then we recommend doing so. The guides are so passionate and knowledgeable about the city, so contributing even a small amount goes a long way to showing your appreciation for their hard work.

Day Trips from Athens

While there are some absolutely incredible places to visit and things to do in Athens itself, there are also a number of great day trips to take from the city. Greece has some wonderful islands and historical sites to visit, so if you have enough time during your trip we fully recommend seeing more than just Athens!

There are a number of islands that can be easily visited on day trips from Athens, including Hydra, Poros and Aegina. It’s possible to book ferries online in advance , or alternatively you can arrange them at the port in Piraeus.

Arranging it this way normally works out cheaper, but if you would like to visit multiple islands in one day then you can book a day tour with Get Your Guide. These tours visit Hydra, Poros and Aegina, allowing you to see a number of the beautiful islands in just one day!

Click here to check out the wonderful day tour to the islands on Get Your Guide! If a day trip is too rushed for you then you can arrange transport yourself and also choose to stay on one of the islands for a few days too.

Other brilliant day trip spots from Athens include Meteora, Delphi and the Temple of Poseidon. Meteora is a stunning rock formation home to a number of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries, which help to make it a truly magical place.

Delphi is home to some stunning ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi amphitheatre. Finally, the Temple of Poseidon is a famous temple built between 444 BC and 440 BC, and is a truly beautiful place to visit at sunset.

Day trips to all these wonderful places and more can be arranged in advance through Get Your Guide. We recommend booking early for your trip so that the dates you want to visit don’t sell out!

Click here to see the amazing day trips available from Athens on Get Your Guide!

How to get to Athens city centre from the airport

There are good public transport links between Athens airport and the city centre, so you can either use the metro or take a bus. The cheaper option is to take the bus, which costs €6 one-way and takes around an hour to reach the city centre.

Buses from the airport will drop you off in Syntagma Square, which is ideal if you have a hotel around this area. If you’d prefer to take the metro then a one-way ticket to the city centre costs €10.

Alternatively, if you’re only staying for a few days you can buy a 3-day tourist ticket for €22. This ticket is valid for 72 hours from when you first validate it and allows unlimited metro use within the city centre, as well as a return journey from the airport.

If you plan to use the metro to get around during your stay then the 3-day Athens tourist ticket is very good value. The advantage of taking the metro to the city centre is that you can get off at the stop closest to your accommodation.

Athens has three metro lines, and the one running to the airport is metro line 3. If the stop you need is on another line then you can change at Monastiraki station for line 1 or Syntagma station for line 2. To find out more about the metro lines click here.

The final option is to take a taxi from Athens airport to the city centre. Unsurprisingly this is the most expensive option, but if you’re in a group then it can still work out as relatively good value if you split the cost.

Taxis from the airport to the city centre have a fixed rate fee and cost €38 from 5am to 12am or €54 from 12am to 5am. Taking a taxi from the airport is the quickest way to reach Athens city centre, so if you would prefer to get there quickly then it’s a good option.

Getting around Athens

If you’re staying in the city centre then you should be able to easily walk to places to visit in Athens like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora and Philopappos Hill.

During summer the city can get very hot, so you should make sure to drink plenty of water if you’re going to be walking around the city. It’s also worth considering other means of transport if you feel the weather is too hot to walk in.

Fortunately, Athens has a cheap and easy to use metro system , with 3 different lines running across the city. A 90-minute ticket for the metro costs €1.40, whereas a 24-hour ticket costs €4.50.

Both options are great value if you want to get around the city quickly. The metro system is extremely convenient if you’re staying outside of the city, as it means you can quickly reach the centre of Athens for less than €2.

Best time to visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens in terms of weather is during spring or autumn as it can get uncomfortably warm during the summer months. Temperatures in the city can exceed 35 degrees Celsius during summer, with average highs of 32 degrees Celsius in both July and August.

Visiting during spring or autumn also means the city should be less busy than during summer, so not only will it be a more bearable temperature, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the attractions without as many tourists!

If possible, try to avoid weekends if you’re only visiting for a few days, even during winter. The city will inevitably be more busy during weekends, especially if you visit during a holiday such as Easter.

When we visited Athens in winter 2019 we were pleasantly surprised with the weather. Although the nights were reasonably cold, some of the days were so warm it was comfortable enough to walk around in shorts and a t-shirt.

Of course the weather can vary, especially in winter, so visiting at this time is a bit of a gamble as it’s possible to get periods of rainy weather. Just a month before we visited Athens even saw some snowfall , which, although rare, is still possible in the city.

If the warm weather and crowds don’t bother you then summer is still a nice time to visit the city, but it’s important to make sure you have air conditioning in your accommodation if you visit at this time.

Where to stay in Athens

Zappion Hotel

The centrally located Zappion Hotel is one of the best budget options in Athens, located within walking distance of top attractions such as the Acropolis, Philopappos Hill and the lovely neighbourhood of Plaka.

Click here to book a stay at the budget friendly Zappion Hotel on Booking.com!

Athos Hotel

If you’re looking for a more comfortable stay then the Athos Hotel is a brilliant option, thanks to the beautiful rooftop terrace and well furnished rooms.

The hotel is brilliantly located just a 5-minute walk from Syntagma Square, which means you can easily explore Athens on foot. 

Click here to take a look at the wonderful Athos Hotel on Booking.com!

Treat yourself!

Electra Palace Hotel

The 5-star Electra Palace Hotel is one of the best hotels in Athens, largely thanks to its amazing rooftop pool with views of the Acropolis. Rooms at the property are comfortable and luxurious, and all the amenities and facilities you need are readily available throughout your stay.

To top if off, the hotel is centrally located so you never have to venture too far to discover the city’s attractions. 

Click here to book a stay at the incredible Electra Palace Hotel on Booking.com!

Looking for more information on where to stay? Click here to read our in depth guide to the best places to stay in Athens!

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Athens, Greece

Here are the landmarks, archaeological sites, and neighborhoods that no one should miss during their trip to Athens.

There is a rumor circulating around flight crews that the most beautiful city from above is no other than Athens. Its hilly landscape features vast olive groves, palm tree-lined coastal avenues, and urban neighborhoods sprawling across the Attican peninsula. The sight is breathtaking. Upon landing, however, visitors are met with a surprising realization: this European capital is profoundly different from the slow-paced, traditional Greek countryside.

There are so many things to see and countless more events to attend. The quirky architecture and urban planning, the growing population that exceeds three million people, and the wide list of “must-sees” can be overwhelming. To save you some time, here is a curated list of the top ten places to visit in Athens (also read this article for our list of Athens’ must-visit museums).

1. The Acropolis Hill

Although Athens has at least seven hills of historical significance, the most prominent is the Acropolis — the acro (high) of the polis (city). The limestone rock is more than a citadel. Since antiquity, it has been a major religious site and the epicenter of the infamous Periclean building program.

Taking place during Greece’s classical era , the program involved the construction of marvelous temples made of Pentelic marble. The temples were dedicated to ancient Greek deities, with the most prominent one, the Parthenon , being associated with the goddess Athena , the patroness of the city. Other temples include but are not limited to the Erechtheion, the Sanctuary of Zeus Polieus, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

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Today, the Acropolis Hill is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece. Although it is no longer an active site for religious ceremonies, it stands as a symbol of Greece’s Classical Era. After all, Athens is known as the “cradle of Western civilization”, and its main landmark, the Parthenon, stands as a universal symbol of the ideas and values of the West.

Situated at the heart of the city, the Acropolis Hill can be reached by following the iconic Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, near the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis metro station. Children under five and young European citizens can enter the site for free, whereas regular tickets cost around 20€, depending on the season. On certain Sundays and selected dates, all visitors can enter the sight for free.

2. Plaka and Anafiotika 

Surrounding the Acropolis Hill, visitors can find two of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Athens. The streets and low-rise houses of Plaka and Anafiotika are commonly found on postcards from Athens. Thanks to the limited car access to the area, both neighborhoods offer a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Although their names are often used interchangeably to describe the northeastern area surrounding Acropolis Hill, the two neighborhoods have their own distinct character and charm.

Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Athens, recognized for its neoclassical buildings , iconic art cafes, outdoor cinemas, and numerous souvenir shops. Visitors are encouraged to walk around its narrow pathways and explore what the neighborhood has to offer. Through doing this they can discover various galleries and lesser-known museums, such as the Frissiras Museum .

Due to the large number of tourists that gather around Acropolis Hill, it is not uncommon to come across various tourist traps in Plaka. However, exploring the neighborhood is a must when visiting Athens for the first time.

Anafiotika is a distinct neighborhood within Plaka that can be reached via Prytaneiou Street, right behind the Byzantine Church of St. Nikolaos Ragavas . Contrary to the elegant neoclassical buildings of Plaka, with their distinct ornate pediments and symmetrical facades, the houses of Anafiotika exude a rural ambiance. After a long walk up and down the alleyways leading to the neighborhood, visitors often feel as if they entered a portal to the Cyclades.

Constructed in the late 19th century by the builders of the Royal Palace of Athens (currently known as the Hellenic Parliament), Anafiotika is an islanding enclave within Athens. Locals and visitors distinguish it from its white-washed cube houses, outlined flagstone alleyways, and vibrant bougainvillea planters, all characteristics of the Cycladic architecture. That is because its first residents originated from the island of Anafi — hence the name “Anafiotika.”

3. Syntagma and 4. The National Gardens 

After visiting the Acropolis Hill, Plaka, and Anafiotika, travelers often find themselves in the less touristy parts of Athens. Just one subway stop away from Akropoli, there is Syntagma Square, one of the most common meeting places for Athenians. Right there, visitors can admire the Hellenic Parliament and the former Royal Palace of Athens. They can also witness the change of the guards in front of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier that stands nearby.

A few steps away from Syntagma Square, a green oasis awaits those who seek a break from the concrete jungle that is the center of Athens. You will recognize it by the tall palm trees that invite the visitor to enter its green iron gates. The National Gardens of Athens were designed by the German agronomist Friedrich Schmidt in 1840, following the request of the first queen of Greece, Amalia of Oldenburg . Known initially as the “Royal Gardens,” the park includes ponds, a zoo with small animals, and a great variety of plants from all around the world. Those who are lucky can witness non-endemic birds, such as exotic green parrots, flying from tree to tree. It is not clear whether those birds were released there by Schmidt himself or if they somehow found their way to the Gardens by other means. The sighting, however, is truly remarkable.

The park is open to the public from sunrise to sunset and entry is free of charge. Since the area is guarded by security, the National Gardens are considered a very safe place for locals and tourists alike.

5. Zappeion

Right next to the National Gardens, visitors can see one of the oldest conferences and exhibition centers of Greece. Zappeion (Megaro) is a palatial building following the neoclassical architectural movement. It was used as the main fencing hall during the 1896 Summer Olympics and as an Olympic Village in 1906.

Apart from the palatial buildings, visitors can admire the beautiful Zappeion Gardens that surround the area. The park includes a playground for children and 2400 square meters of atriums and patios. Contrary to the National Gardens, the Gardens of Zappeion are less dense and people can freely enter and exit at any time of the day. For this exact reason, it is advised to avoid visiting the area late at night.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus  

Another important landmark of the city of Athens is the Temple of Olympian Zeus , or simply, Olympieion. Situated right next to the southwestern part of Zappeion, its remains stand as a reminder of the city’s rich past. The temple was laid by the Athenian tyrants in the 6th century BCE on the site of an older outdoor sanctuary of Zeus . More than 600 years later, the Roman emperor Hadrian extended the structure by adding 104 colossal columns. Today, visitors can see 16 of them, since the original structure was hit by barbarian invasions and natural disasters.

7. Panathenaic Stadium 

Less than ten minutes on foot from Zappeion and the Olympieion, there is another important Athenian landmark. The Panathenaic Stadium, or Kallimarmaro, is an open-air U-shaped stadium that has been hosting several athletic competitions and cultural events for centuries. Made entirely out of marble, it is distinguished for its impressive design. Initially, it was made out of limestone and was later reconstructed by Herodes Atticus in 144 CE, who envisioned it as a marble structure. In modern times, the stadium held the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1896 Olympic Games, as well as several more athletic competitions.

8. The Ancient Agora of Athens

Moving away from the Panathenaic Stadium towards the northwestern part of central Athens, visitors can enter the ancient market (agora) of the city. The Agora was in fact more than a business area. Athenians would discuss politics, and many great ideas were born in this exact location. The Agora was also the meeting point of sculptors and marble workers, such as Phidias , Alcamenes, and Praxiteles.

Today, visitors can enter the Agora and its Museum from 8 AM to 6 PM from Adrianou Street, just a few minutes away from Monastiraki Square. The temple of Hephaestus and other important landmarks are enclosed within the archaeological site of the Agora. Ticket prices vary from 5€ to 10€, while there are many free admission days during the year.

9. Kerameikos Cemetery 

Within a short walking distance from the Ancient Agora, there is the archaeological site of Kerameikos and the homonymous Museum. Dating back to the early bronze age, it showcases part of the ancient necropolis of Athens, bringing forgotten rituals to light. At first glance, the site resembles a regular park. Upon paying close attention, visitors will notice monumental graves, statues, and wall ruins.

Moreover, the Museum of Kerameikos sheds more light on the religious beliefs of ancient Athenians. For example, recent archaeological findings from the area stand as proof that the local population would use the dead in occult practices even during the Classical Era. Curse tablets would be buried in freshly dug tombs with the hope that the deceased would carry them to Hades , where the goddess of witchcraft, Hecate , resided.

The entrance to Kerameikos is in close proximity to Thision metro station, right at the pedestrian part of Ermou Street. Ticket prices vary from 4€ to 8€, while there are many free admission days during the year, including the 28th of October.

10. The Pnyx

Although Athens has many historical hills, most travelers are unable to visit all of them during their trip. Apart from the Acropolis, another important Athenian Hill is the Pnyx . Since 507 BC, ancient Athenians would gather on this rocky hill to attend the ekklesia (assembly) and discuss politics. Important figures such as Pericles and Demosthenes have delivered historical orations on that site, which visitors can freely access by following different alleyways in the historical center.

Visiting the site does not only offer a breathtaking view of Athens and the Acropolis, but it also allows travelers to see the first bema (speaker’s platform) to have ever existed at the birthplace of Democracy . The hill is open to the public at all hours of the day and night and there are no admission fees. The easiest and fastest way to get there is by following the alleyway that starts from the Doridis Observatory all the way up to the Nymphs Hill. The exact spot of the bema can be reached within 15 minutes from the train station of Thisio.

7 Museums to Visit in Athens

By Marialena Perpiraki MSc. Media & Convergence, BA Communication, Media & Culture Marialena is a journalist and content writer with an interest in comparative mythology and folklore. She holds a BA in Communications, Media & Culture from Panteion University of Athens and an MSc. in Media & Convergence Management from AAU, Austria. She is the creator of the cross-media platform Helinika.

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Planning Your Trip To Athens, Greece: 14 Must-See Locations

V isiting Athens, Greece, is a bucket-list trip for many people. Athens was the at the heart of the ancient Greek empire, and the city played an important part in the development of democracy, philosophy, literature, art, theatre, and mathematics. In this guide, we'll show you some of the most renown places of ancient Athens, and hopefully give you some ideas for planning your trip itinerary.

1. Parthenon Atop The Acropolis

Dominating the Acropolis, the Parthenon stands as the epitome of ancient Greek architecture. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, its colossal structure is a testament to classical design and a must-see for any visitor. The Acropolis ticket grants access to this architectural marvel along with other significant sites in the vicinity.

2. Theater of Dionysus

Carved into the southern slope of the Acropolis, the Theater of Dionysus witnessed the birth of Greek tragedy. You can still see the well-preserved stone seats and stage, where works by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides once came to life.

3. Temple of Nike

Located on on the southwestern side of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike is a small yet elegant structure celebrating Greek victory in war. Its graceful Ionic columns and friezes capture the essence of Athenian triumphs in battle.

4. Erechtheion

Dedicated to Athena and Poseidon, the Erechtheion on the northern side of the Acropolis boasts a unique design featuring the Caryatid Porch, adorned with intricately carved female statues.

5. Propylaia

Located at the entrance to the Acropolis, the Propylaia combines Doric and Ionic architecture to create a dramatic introduction to this sacred Greek site. Visitors will walk through this masterful structure at the beginning and end of their Acropolis journey.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Devoted to the king of the gods, Zeus, the colossal Temple of Olympian Zeus features towering Corinthian columns, once making it the largest temple in ancient Greece. You can easily combine a visit to this site with the nearby Arch of Hadrian to see two impressive places at one time.

7. Panathenaic Stadium

Constructed entirely in marble, the Panathenaic Stadium hosted both ancient and modern Olympic Games. It's a wonderful place to visit with kids as you can explore the entire structure and run where the athletes competed. Channel your inner Olympian by climbing its stairs, exploring athlete tunnels, and standing on the historic podiums.

8. Agora of Ancient Athens

The Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient city of Athens, offers a glimpse into daily life, serving as a hub for political, commercial, and cultural affairs. You can wander through this open-air park archeological and discover many amazing ruins, such as the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus. Learn more about the Agora Of Ancient Athens here .

9. Temple of Hephaestus

Nestled within the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Hephaestus is a well-preserved Doric temple dedicated to the god of craftsmanship. Its harmonious proportions and intricate friezes, capture the essence of ancient Greek artistry. The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best preserved ancient Greek temples in existence, and you can walk right up to it!

10. Stoa of Attalos

Once a vibrant hub for social and commercial activities, the Stoa of Attalos now houses a museum within the Ancient Agora. The gorgeous long colonades, sculptures, and busts give you a true feel for what the building would have looked like 2,500 years ago. The museum is filled with amazing relics like figurines, sculptures, vases, and other items.

11. Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos

As the burial ground for Athens in antiquity, the Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos unveils tombs, monuments, and remnants that offer a glimpse into ancient Greek burial practices.

12. National Archaeological Museum

The incredible National Archeological Museum has an extensive collection of artifacts spanning various periods of Greek history. At the Museum you can see exquisite sculptures, ancient pottery, gold jewelry, and renowned works like the Antikythera Mechanism and the golden Mask Of Agamemnon. See more about our visit here .

13. Arch of Hadrian

Erected in honor of Roman Emperor Hadrian, the Arch of Hadrian stands as a tangible link between ancient Athens and the new city. The Arch is next to the Temple of Olympian Zeus and both can be visited in one trip. You can walk up under the Arch, so it's a perfect place for that Athens selfie!

14. Roman Agora

The Roman Agora served as a marketplace during the Roman period. Prominent ruins are the Tower of the Winds, a clocktower and a weather vane. You can easily explore this archaeological site, situated between the Greek Agora and the Parthenon, as part of a day-long excursion around the Plaka District.

Visiting Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece is filled with so many historical and archaeological wonders. Plan your visit around the major attractions and add smaller destinations as side trips. Be sure to stay somewhere downtown so you are close to many of the places outlined above. The Plaka District is a popular touristy neighborhood and is close to most things. Some locations, like the National Archeological Museum can be reached via a short Uber ride. Be sure to dress for the weather as most landmarks are outside. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do some walking. Some locations require you purchase a ticket, and more popular places, like the Parthenon, will be crowded certain times of the year.

To learn more, you can read our full article here .

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23 Hidden Gems and Unusual Things to do in Athens: The Cradle of Democracy

March 23, 2023

Uncover hidden gems and unusual things to do in Athens, the home of democracy and modern heart of Greece. Here’s our inside guide.

Don’t miss: the Athens Food Guid e and our packing list for Greece.

23 Unique Things to Do in Athens

Athens should be easy to love, but sometimes she isn’t.

From ancient romance to skyscrapers and edgy street art, Athens is all the better for being a city that’s hard to define.

It’s a real city, a living city, a characterful city. But it does require a little effort to uncover the best it has to offer. When it comes to finding hidden gems in Athens, it’s not a cliche. You can really, literally, find some actual hidden gems. But beyond that, you can also find plenty of non-touristy, unusual and unique things to do in Athens.

So here’s our inside guide, based on numerous trips to the city and advice from locals. locals. So whether it’s your first time or you’re back and forth for business, we have plenty of alternative things to do in Athens for you.

Disclosure – some of these activities were hosted by the places mentioned, but not all were. They were only included if I thought you’d enjoyed them! Plus, if you book through the links on this page, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you (this is known as an affiliate link.) Cheers!

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Go wave watching at Piraeus

One of Athens’ hidden gems is its seafront. Hardly anyone ever thinks to go there. Head to Piraeus, and take your time strolling along the water’s edge, watching the waves kiss the shore and local children chase their shadows. It’s a calm and beautiful spot, a world away from central Athens with only 20 minutes spent behind the wheel. You can make a day trip of it or just head here for dinner.

Dinner suggestion:   Varoulko Seaside Restaurant

Ah, this lovely place. I almost don’t want to tell you about it! Tucked up right beside the waterfront, this fresh and modern restaurant has the friendliest service of all the Michelin-starred places I’ve ever visited. The menu is creative, combining syringes of olive oil with leaf-wrapped minced langoustine. But even the humble cherry tomato tastes better here than elsewhere. When it comes to unusual things to do in Athens, it’s hard to beat this unique and off the beaten path spot.

See Athens with a Local: “This is My Athens”

If you’re looking for a really unique way to discover the hidden gems of Athens, then meet up with a local. How do you do that? Well, programme This Is My Athens connects you with local  volunteers who help you to discover, well, anything you want! They’re driven by a passion for their city and for meeting other people. And, boy, do they know the places to go.

Take Plaka, for example, the area close to the Acropolis. I’d dismissed it as far too touristy but my local guide found spots that showed how wrong I was. Glistening interiors of hidden churches with ghostly stories. Handmade arts and crafts with the artists still in situ. Plus, some of the best places for coffee – and later on wine. Highly recommended.

Relax in the National Garden and Catch the Open Air Cinema

Central Athens can feel chaotic. But when the sun shines and the orange blossom flutters, then a stroll through the National Garden can revive the soul. Formerly the Royal Garden, it covers 38 acres and runs behind the Greek parliament. This being Greece, of course, it contains some ruins but these botanical gardens also offers great food and an open air cinema during the summer.

• Dine on the outdoor terrace at Aegli Zappeiou and enjoy the open air cinema afterwards.

More Hidden Gems in Athens: Unusual and Unique Places to Eat

Also, don’t miss our Athens food guide. Working out where to eat in Athens is almost as important as working out what to do. Maybe more…since Greek food forms such an important part of life in Athens Greece. We’ve included more places than you can eat at in one day, but in between day trips , if you have a few days in the city, you can try plenty.

Watch the Sun Set Over the Acropolis

One of the best things about Athens is that its hilly structure allows for lots of incredible views from rooftop bars. It’s a unique way to spend an evening and my hidden gem for this is dinner at the Electra Rooftop Garden Hotel.

Dinner suggestion: the Electra Rooftop Garden Hotel. This glorious hotel drips in cream and gold and, as the name suggests, there’s a rooftop terrace that overlooks the Acropolis. Now, plenty of places in Athens overlook the Acropolis but this one lives right up close … and it serves a delicious pomegranate sorbet!

Drink Wine and Talk Philosophy

Erm. Again, this is easily done with a This is My Athens guide! Check out the burgeoning wine bars in the area around Electra for a mix of hipster cool and cosy vibes. If you are more keen on the philosophy and less so on the wine, then check out the Athens philosophy tours offered by academics. You can even visit Plato’s former academy.

Dine Among Recycled Furniture

Check out the oh-so-peppery fresh virgin olive oil at the NEW Hotel Restaurant. NEW excels at serving fresh, organic mediterranean cuisine and the sculptures made from recycled furniture make a nice twist for the eye. It’s one of those quirky things to do in Athens. Greek mezze never tasted so good.

Hustle in the Food Market of Varvakios Agora

Put on a pair of comfortable shoes and head to the Varvakios Agora to experience the raucous splendour of Athens’ major fresh food market. Walk past hawkers and hampers filled with plump prawns, jostle between the crowd to buy fresh fish and hanging entrails, and then find some slow-paced solace amid the spice mountains outside.

Brunch in Lycabettus with a Skyline View of Athens

I’m no stranger to a hotel with a view but the sixth floor at the St George Lycabettus somehow defies the laws of physics.

Pine so close you could touch it on the one side and a glimmering, shimmering Acropolis on the other. Plus, another side that shows the houses stacked like staggered shoeboxes on the hills and the hubbub of city life in Greece. And finally, the view of the coast and the Saronic Islands. Blissful.

Lycabettus Hill or Mount Lycabettus is one of the highest points in Athens, within Kolonaki. It’s the well-heeled part of the city, a kind of Sloane Square with sunshine. After all, Daniel Day Lewis and Juliette Binoche have both dined on the Grand Balcon (though not together, as far as I know.)

How to do it

You can walk to central Syntagma Square in 20-30 minutes depending on shoe speed and shoe comfort or, of course, ask the concierge for a taxi into town. If you don’t plan to stay at the hotel, you can still head there on Sunday for a brunch with a view. Book in advance is my suggestion.

Eat Sushi with a View of the Acropolis

If the clouds or cool rain have decided to move in, or if you’re yearning for a break from traditional Greek tastes, check out the glittering lights and sushi selection at the  Galaxy Bar, Hilton Athens.

It also offers a magnificent floodlit view of the Acropolis.

Imbibe at the Oldest Distillery in Athens

Sip your drink beneath the brightly coloured glass of Brettos in Plaka. As the oldest distillery in Athens, it comes stocked with all the homemade, mysterious flavours you should be afraid of. Cherry, lemon and mastiha ouzo. You have been warned…

Take a cooking class

One of the best non-touristy things to do in Athens (or indeed anywhere) is to take a cooking class with a local. In Athens, you can arrange this through the Museum of Gastronomy.

Classic things to do in Athens

In your haste to see Athens’ hidden gems, don’t miss her unique attractions. As well as looking for alternative things to do in Athens, check out:

THE ACROPOLIS AND PLAKA

Yes, everyone goes there, but there’s a good reason for that! These crumbling columns are the tangible memory of a civilisation that gave us more than we can sometimes comprehend: the basis of democracy, the spirit of the Olympics and even the word alphabet itself. Granted, there are other aspects we may be glad the world has forgotten (like exercising naked in the gymnasium, I’d say) but still.

Head up the hill early and seek plenty of shade.

Inside Tip: The Acropolis refers to the citadel, the Parthenon is the temple.

THE ACROPOLIS MUSEUM

Throw yourself completely into the spirit of ancient Greece by following up the Acropolis with the  dazzlingly modern Acropolis Museum. This masterpiece based its architecture on the Parthenon itself and uses a range of multimedia exhibits to bring the stones you see to life. (There’s even a lego exhibit: now who could want more than that?!)

Find up to date entrance fees for the Acropolis here.

Inside Tip: The Acropolis Museum also has a sun and shade soaked terrace that serves super strong Greek coffee

Hidden Gems in Athens in the  Museum District

Like all the best cities in the world, Athens has  a museum district. Ping pong your way along Vasilissis Sofias Avenue up to Syntagma Square and around to Panepistimiou Street and the holy trinity of learning: the University of Athens, the Academy and the National Library.

Depending on your energy and enthusiasm, you may be able to fly around each of these museums by mid afternoon. Chances are, though, that it’s best to limit yourself to one or two. Particularly when you realise how many of them have fine cafes and restaurants cloistered away at the back…

These places have some of my favourite unique things to do in Athens.

The Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is something of an institution in Greece, taking its exhibits and its ethos to the airport and to the beach resorts of the south. It contains a range of Greek art plus, by prior appointment, you can hold some of the exhibits in your hands. Stemming from the private fortune of the Benakis family, the museum also focuses on state-of-the-art restoration programmes and widespread education. A tour guide here is a must to bring the history alive and to let you hold the artefacts!

The Museum of Cycladic Art

The Nicholas P. Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art houses ancient art in a modern setting. Founded in 1986, the museum has one of my favourite cafes in Athens. But I suppose it would carry a little more dignity to talk about the art first.

What is cycladic art?

It hails from the Greek Islands of Cyclades in the Aegean sea and the most striking feature involves the prehistoric figures and figurines, particularly of women. Greek architect Ioannis Vikelas designed the building and it’s a quiet and contemplative place to recharge from the exterior bustle of Athens.

The Zoumboulakis Galleries

The Zoumboulakis Galleries bring private collections of contemporary art to 21st century Greece in a cool and brilliantly white, airy gallery setting. It’s often described as a multi-purpose cultural space, with themed exhibitions and events aiming to bring together a community of art lovers in Athens.

Numismatic Museum: The Real Hidden Gems in Athens

Numismatic Museum – the museum of coins! Pick up an audio guide to translate and immerse yourself in stories of power and pomp through different currencies. Now this is where the hidden gems of Athens can be found! Quite literally.

A coin collection may sound rather dull but it’s a fascinating expose of how we treat money, which when all is said and done, is only an idea. From seals to mints to jewels and hidden gems themselves. It’s one of my favourite unusual things to do in Athens.

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens

The National Archaelogical Museum of Athens contains the best collection of ancient Greek artefacts in the world. And that’s no easy claim. Visit to catch up with permanent and temporary exhibitions of this period of time on earth that left such a lasting influence.

It also includes the 3000 year old Tholos tomb of Menidi, a beehive shaped tomb built for royalty.

Inside tip for Athens

If you bring your passport with you to the National Library, you can enter the reading room and, well, read! Perfect for book lovers.

Visit Plato’s Original Academy – Outdoors!

One of the most unusual things to do in Athens, is to head back to school. From thousands of years ago.

It’s completely unique and utterly off the tourist path but without a guide, you’d easily miss it.

Back in the day, Plato and Socrates would teach outdoors. And students would often be in the nude. Head over here if you want to find out what it’s all about and to touch the ruins of Plato’s former academy.

Technically part of Plaka, Anafiotika feels like a different world and is easily one of the best hidden gems in Athens. Clustered into the steep hills beside the Acropolis, it is almost impossible to describe to you how this area can be hidden and yet so close to the country’s main attraction.

It is also eerily, spectacularly beautiful.

The jumble of tiny white houses, seemingly melting out from the mountain in mesmerising white and blue owes its appearance to its residents. Drafted in to help build in Athens, workers from the Greek islands like Santorini and beyond set up their homes in a similar style here in Athens.

Agios Nikolaos Ragavas Church

Find a little piece of the 11th century alive and well in the heart of Athens. This still-functioning church from the byzantine era shimmers its gold through the gloom. If you have no time (nor inclination) to visit other religious buildings in Athens, then pay this one a visit. It’s easy to access in Plaka and a beautiful hidden gem in Athens.

Monastiraki Flea Market

Get over any distaste of the name and hunt for bargains at this thrift store that takes place every Sunday. Look out for Greek souvenirs, vintage jewellery, quirky treasures and more.

Did you enjoy this article on hidden gems in Athens? Bookmark these unique and unusual things to do in Athens for your trip to Greece. The Greek capital is waiting.

More Travel Guides on Athens

See our ultimate guide to food in Athens and check out the philosophy tour of Athens: why do we pursue happiness?

More on Travel in Greece

Start with our collection of beautiful and unusual things to do in Greece and then delve deeper into the Greek archives.

In particular, look for the Peloponnese road trip itinerary and guide to things to do in Kalamata. Plus, decide between Mykonos or Santorini with our guide to both islands.

14 thoughts on “23 Hidden Gems and Unusual Things to do in Athens: The Cradle of Democracy”

Great! Since then, seeing the beauty of Greece is on my bucket list. And then I have watched a drama set in Greece, I fell in love with it more. So I definitely love to visit someday. Thank you for sharing and for giving more ideas.

My pleasure! Hope you get to visit – and get to enjoy!

Comments are closed.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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• Beyond The Ruins Unusual Things...

Beyond the Ruins: Unusual Things To Do in Athens

You’ve climbed Acropolis Hill, marvelled at the glory of the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and enjoyed that all-important gyros. The fun doesn’t end here – Athens has no shortage of more unusual things to see and do.

The Greek capital’s most famous historical sites are more than enough to keep you occupied on a short trip to Athens. However, if you’re visiting the city for more than a few days, you might want to explore a different side to the city. Beyond the wonders of antiquity, Athens is packed with out-of-the-ordinary activities. Here, you will find some of the best things to do in Athens that you won’t necessarily find in the guidebooks.

Walk among the tombs at the First Cemetery

In a city as busy as Athens, this is one of the very few places where you can find some peace and quiet. Sure, wandering through a graveyard might sound a tad grim, but its architecture and history is fascinating and well worth a visit.

The First Cemetery of Athens was built in 1837 in the neighbourhood of Mets , only a short walk away from the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Inside the cemetery, you’ll find the tombs of wealthy and well-known Greeks, as well as some excellent examples of Neoclassical architecture. The absolute highlight of the cemetery is the enchanting I Koimomeni (Sleeping Girl) sculpture, which lies atop the tomb of Sofia Afentaki – the daughter of a prominent family from the island of Kimolos, who died from tuberculosis in 1873 at the age of 18. The sculpture’s creator, Yannoulis Chalepas, is also buried in the cemetery.

Soak up the suburbs

Visiting the suburbs is a perfect way to get a sense of everyday life in Athens, beyond the iconic ruins for which the city is known.

In the summer, the glitzy coastal suburb of Glyfada is the perfect place for high-end shopping and dining – the seafood is second-to-none at Sardelaki , for example. On the other side of the map, you will find Chalandri, an up-and-coming neighbourhood with a vibrant nightlife – pop into White Monkey or Theory for an evening drink. Or, if you’re in the mood for a lovely Sunday stroll in the park, take the train up to Kifissia. One of the most affluent areas of the city, Kifissia is full of parks, pedestrian streets and elegant boutiques.

Party like there’s no tomorrow at Athens’s underground bars

There’s an abundance of affordable and high-quality rooftop cocktail bars in Athens . However, if you’re looking for something a little more alternative than the breathtaking view of the lit-up Acropolis, get ready to do some detective work. Some of the best party venues in Athens are well hidden.

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Take Astron Bar, for example: even though this techno hotspot is smack dab in the middle of Psyrri , you’ll probably never spot it unless you know where to go. In the area, you’ll also find Embros Theatre, a former factory that has been transformed into a versatile cultural space; and Romantso , a proto-hipster joint that frequently hosts parties and events. Other great places to party are Boiler, friendly LGBTQ club BeQueer, and Crust, a pizzeria-cum-underground industrial club.

Discover the overlooked museums of Athens

The Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum are the uncontested superstars when it comes to cultural treasures. However, there are lots of other options that are frequently overlooked by visitors.

Take, for example, the Athens Numismatic Museum . It has a large collection of coins, dating as far back as 1400 BC. Sure, unless you are Scrooge McDuck the name might not spur much enthusiasm, but it’s worth a visit for its impressive exhibits.

While not exactly ‘off the beaten path’, the Museum of Cycladic Art is definitely underrated compared to the heavyweights. Among its vast collection, you’ll find ancient artefacts salvaged from Bronze Age Cycladic civilisations, as well as a plethora of painted vases and everyday items. Among the exhibits, you will find the best known artworks to have survived from this era: simplistic marble figures depicting women with their arms folded, known as FAF, or ‘folded-arm figure(ine)’, among archaeologists.

Explore the nature that surrounds the urban jungle

In need of more open space and fresh air than the central National Garden can offer? Athens is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for short escapes from the city.

On the 60-kilometre (37-mile) drive between Athens and Cape Sounio, you will find dozens of beaches and coves, meaning it’s easy to combine a city break with a dip in the Aegean Sea. Among the most beautiful is KAPE, situated close to the Temple of Poseidon. Alternatively, you can dive into Vouliagmeni Lake, a protected thermal spring where the water temperature stays between 22-29C (72-84F) all year long due to an underground volcanic tunnel. If you are up for a hike, head out to the Penteli mountain and marvel at the gaping gulch of Chaos crater, a collapsed cave with a width of over 50 metres (164 feet).

Stop and smell the roses at Diomidous Botanical Garden

The Diomidous Botanical Garden is located just 9km (5.6mi) west of the centre of Athens. Named after its donors, Julia and Alexandros Diomidous, the botanical garden spans around 185 hectares (457 acres) and is a perfect spot for picnics or strolls. The gardens – the biggest of their kind – are home to over 3,000 plant species from all over the world, and are grouped according to their origin. Be sure to check out the historical plants section to discover plants mentioned in Greek mythology, such as the ‘narthex’ – the giant fennel stalk in which Prometheus is meant to have hidden fire stolen from Zeus.

Find the best sunset in Athens

Contrary to what you might expect, the best view in Athens is not to be found in the hill of the Acropolis. Sure, it’s magnificent, but you’re missing one essential part of the Athenian skyline – the Parthenon itself! If you want to watch the sunset, your best bet is to climb the 277-metre-high (909-foot-high) Lycabettus Hill . From there, you can bask in the glory of the purple sky, contrasting ethereally with the lights of the busy city below. The hike to the top is enjoyable and doesn’t require a lot of effort, so don’t worry if you’re not in top form! However, if you are looking for an easier option, Strefi Hill is nearby and offers almost equally beautiful views of the city.

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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

It’s also one of the more affordable countries on the Euro.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in other Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece many times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 55 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn, you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. Be sure to check out the King Leonidas statue, visit the Archeological Museum, and explore the Diros Caves. I especially enjoyed the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil, which takes you through how olives have become a staple of everyday life in Greece. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. There are operas, indie musicians, dance performances, lectures, and more. It’s a unique celebration of the performing arts in all their forms and worth your time if you’re in the city when it’s happening. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 5 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. I especially recommend checking out the Achilleion a palace from 1890 as well as Nymfes Village, historic Corfu Town, and the incredible views from Angelokastro Castle. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo). There are a lot of day trips to Delphi from Athens starting around 48 EUR.

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. I love how you can see the lush forest and trees just above the cave walls. It’s totally surreal and the water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating on glass. Admission is 7 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Along the way, you’ll see the White Mountains and the trek ends at the lovely beach town of Agia Roumeli. The whole trek takes 5-7 hours to complete so make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). The artifacts here cover more than 5,500 years of history. One of my favorite pieces was a game board that dates all the way back to 1600 BC. The stunning collection here highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia on the coast of the Peloponnese, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia was founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century and is a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. There are ruins to explore and a mosque from the 16th century now houses the towns Archaeological Museum. You can also walk out to the lighthouse for incredible sea views. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the views or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours start around 50 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 70-100 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. You can find these on most of the islands and they’ll take you to incredible places you can’t get to by car. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 20 EUR, while full-day tours are around 30 EUR. Prices can vary greatly depending on where you’re taking the tour from.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives start around 50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat starts around 70 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for around 70 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 65 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 50 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 3-6 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 15 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 3-6 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-11 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-25 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 3-5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 35-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for around 15 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 5 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points for accommodations – If you have credit card points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information to help you with the basics so you can start collecting points now and use them on your trip .
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required. Discover Cars is an excellent place to find a car for your trip.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! The specific destination guides have more places but here are some my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 42 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is 24 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 10 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades Islands start around 40 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 20 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 38-50 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. There is more rain during this time of year, so pack for that. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. There’s quite a bit of rain and temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid so you know what to avoid.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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5 Places to See Ancient Ruins in Greece (Other than Athens)

Greek is full of ancient ruins, and there are plenty of amazing places to see them outside of Athens!

If you’ve seen the Acropolis and its museums and ambled through the Agora, you might be getting burned out on the hustle and bustle of Athens.

When you’re itching to see ancient ruins and want to take the show on the road, here are five unforgettable ancient ruins outside of Athens that you won’t want to miss while in Greece.

1. The Temple of Poseidon at Sounio

For a beautiful day trip outside of Athens, consider making the drive or taking a bus to Cape Sounion, where the ruins of a 5 th century Doric temple stand overlooking the Aegean.

Located on the southernmost tip of Attica, the Temple of Poseidon was one of the many places where Hellenophile and writer Lord Byron ventured. You can still find his name carved onto one of the columns.

The Temple is a perfect place to watch the sunset if you have time, and there are many beaches nearby for some great swimming and lounging.

How to get there from Athens: Many tour companies offer day trips to Sounion, as well as some hostels ( Athens Backpackers has a day trip that goes to the cape and also to a natural spring). The cheapest option is public transport , which takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic.

Take a KTEL bus from Aigyptou Square, near the Archaeological Museum (tickets may be bought on board); it leaves every hour on the half-hour. Last bus leaving from Sounion is at 9 p.m. Be sure to take the Paraliako (Coastal) route, as it goes along the water and has stunning views.

Site hours: 9:30 to sunset, daily

Cost for admission: 4€

Ever wonder where the famous oracle of Delphi hung out and prophesied the fate of Sparta’s 300 or predicted the genius of Socrates? You can take an easy day trip, or spend a night in Delphi, 180 kilometers from Athens and the second most popular site of ruins in Greece.

How to get there from Athens: KTEL buses go from the Athens KTEL Station B on Liossion St. to Delphi (about 3 hours) roughly six times a day, depending on the time of year.

Check the Fokidas KTEL site  for up-to-date times, although be warned that the sites aren’t always updated frequently. If you choose to do a day trip from Athens, try to take the 7:30 a.m. bus and return in the evening.

Site hours: Archaeological museum, daily, 9 a.m. to 4p.m. Site, daily, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Cost for admission: Admission for the museum and the site is 9€. I highly recommend buying a combo ticket to see both.

Note the closing times for the museum, however. If you just see the site, it is 6€.

If you do want to avoid crowds, especially in the summer, I recommend spending a night in Delphi and going to the ruins first thing in the morning. During high season, not only will the site be very crowded, but it gets hot.

Delphi has a ton of budget hotel options, and it’s a quaint little town to explore for an evening before seeing the archaeological site in the morning.

3. Ancient Olympia

If the modern Olympics inspire you, see where it all began and head west to Olympia. You can see where the first Olympians trained, run in the original Olympic stadium, and wander through their version of the Olympic Village.

Although definitely too long for a day-trip from Athens (about 6.5 hours by bus), it would be easy to create an itinerary returning to Athens through the Peloponnese featuring stops in towns like Kalamata (home of the famous olive) and Nafplio. If you’ve rented a car, even better.

How to get there from Athens: Leaving from KTEL station A, there are usually two buses leaving for Olympia — in the morning, around 9 a.m., and in the afternoon, around 1 p.m. Stay overnight and see the ruins the next day, giving yourself time also to see the museum on the grounds.

Site hours: Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Museum open Tuesday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday and Monday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until November 30 th , at which point winter hours start. Check online for details traveling in winter.

Cost for admission: Admission for the museum and the site is 9€, just like at Delphi. The museum at Olympia is absolutely worth a trip, as it houses the sculpture from the Temple of Zeus and a Hermes by Praxiteles. Cost for the site alone is 6€.

4. Ancient Mycenae

If the names Agamemnon, Helen or Paris don’t ring a bell, either you paid no attention in high school history classes or haven’t seen Troy.

In either case, ancient Mycenae was supposedly founded by Perseus (you know, the Medusa slayer) and the generations that followed there started as long ago as 2000 BCE to develop an entire civilization that dominated Southern Greece for many years. Remaining today is the famous Lion Gate, as well as remnants of the palace, fortress and more.

How to get there from Athens: Buses run from Athens to Mycenae via Nafplio or Argos a few times a day. If you want to do a day trip, go from Athens to Argos (a couple hours) and switch buses to Mycenae (Mikines), which is a bit less than an hour.

Site hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until October 31 st . Winter hours usually are from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. but check online. Museum open Tuesday–Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, noon to 7 p.m.

Cost for admission: 8€ for the site, the Treasury of Atreus (located within walking distance down the road) and the museum.

5. Epidaurus

While Epidaurus was known as a center of healing in the ancient world, one of the most impressive relics is the Theatre at Epidaurus, which could hold 15,000 people.

You can try out the amazing acoustics of the theatre or see where ill folks would sleep in the hopes that the god Asclepius would give them medical advice in their dreams.

How to get there from Athens: Buses run from Athens to Epidaurus also via Nafplio. Be sure to specify when you’re looking for tickets that you’re going to the Theatre of Epidaurus, as there are two other stops in the vicinity that won’t quite get you where you need to go.

Site hours: 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily until October 27 th . Winter hours are usually from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., but check online. Museum hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday–Sunday. Mondays it opens at 1:30 p.m. Winter hours follow the site’s.

Cost for admission: 6€ for site and museum

General Tips and Information

My hearty recommendation is to use Nafplio as a home base to see Mycenae and Epidaurus. You’ll be hard-pressed not to fall in love with Nafplio, and you’ll probably be glad for the opportunity to get some beach time in. Be sure to check out the Palimidi Fortress and eat some good gelato !

Be sure to drink lots of water and wear sun protection while visiting these sites; many have little shade, and Greek summers can be sweltering. If you are able, travel to these places during the off-season and you’ll find that they’re much less crowded and the temperatures are a lot more tolerable.

When checking for KTEL times, keep in mind that the websites are organized by region. You won’t find schedules from Athens to Delphi on the same site as Athens to Nafplio. For more thorough information on transportation in Greece, visit Living in Greece’s Travel page .

A super useful website for current visiting hours and information on all the sites in Greece is that of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture .

Kalo taxidi!

Can you recommend any other ruins in Greece?

About author.

Sara learned the value of travel at an early age, on annual family trips in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Not to be relegated to the North American continent, she made her first trip overseas at the age of 13 and has been finding ways to travel ever since. She has explored Etruscan tombs in Italy, made hostel beds in Ireland, and hiked volcanoes in Costa Rica. Follow her travels near and far at www.saramelanie.com

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Hey there, Do you know what the picture is at the top of the article? I have tried searching endlessly for that image online, but can’t find any other photos of that particular temple.

Hey! Not sure which temple, there’s so many! This post was written in 2012 so it’s a while back, we’ll try to search for it too or come across it one day.

Poseidon’s Fury attraction at Universal Islands of Adventure, Orlando.

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26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 11, 2024

What are the best places to visit in Greece anyway? It’s a huge task to decide where to go in Greece. It could take a lifetime to discover all of its beautiful islands and astounding archeological sites. Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world with something to suit everyone’s needs. Beach lovers and foodies, culture seekers, and history buffs will all fall in love with Greece.

Table of Contents

Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

Dating back to 2000 BC, Greece is known as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western civilization. Some of the most beautiful places in Greece are the Greek Islands but the mainland houses rugged mountains and fascinating historic sites as well. So we are here to help you decide where to visit in Greece on your next holiday.

From whitewashed villages to its mountains, Greece is a land made for the Gods. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Greece that it really is impossible to show them all, but we are going to give it the old college try. So are you ready to discover Greece with us?

1. Santorini

Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece for a Honeymoon or romantic getaway. Of all the places in Greece, this island is certainly the most famous. With its whitewashed villages and blue domes sitting high on sea cliffs, Santorini is postcard perfect. The turquoise waters glisten in the caldera below as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea.

This island paradise with awe-inspiring views overlooking the caldera has it all black-sand beaches, red-sand beaches, and golden-sand beaches. It truly is the most beautiful of the Greek islands and our favorite place to visit. But make sure to pull yourself away from its infinity pools and stunning views to see the cultural side of the island and the archeological site of Akrotiri that dates back to the 16th century BC. Read more: 25 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece

Where to Stay in Santorini

Where to stay in Santorini – We recommend staying on the west coast of Santorini in the town of Oia or Imerovigli. Two hotels that we recommend are Iconic Santorini in Imerovigli and Adronis Luxury Suites in the town of Oia. We have an entire post dedicated to Santorini hotels. Read more: Where to Stay in Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens – We flew to Santorini from Athens and there are flights daily, but you can also take the Blue Star ferry from the Piraeus ferry port just outside of Athens. It’s about 20 minutes from the city.

Meteora is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece that is gaining in popularity. Located in central Greece, this awe-inspiring place is a sea of 9th-century monasteries built atop massive rock monoliths . The Monasteries of Meteora are so impressive that Meteora is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Massive sandstone spires reach 400 meters into the sky. Forming 60 million years ago, the landscape of Meteora is one of the most unique and beautiful we’ve ever seen. Monks built monasteries at the top of these mountains as a hidden retreat where they lived in seclusion and safety scaling the walls with ropes and ladders. Read more about Meteora in our post – Things to do in Meteora Greece – More than Monasteries

Where to Stay in Meteora

Where to stay in Meteora – Stay at  Divani Meteora Hotel situated in the town of Kalabaka right at the base of the massive Meteora Rocks. It has a swimming pool, spa and fantastic view.

You can book this top-rated two day tour from Athens that explores Meteora Monasteries and the Delphi Archaeological Site if you don’t have the time to stay in Meteora, but we recommend at least two nights in this magical part of Greece.

How to Get to Meteora – Meteora can be reached from the city of Athens by Bus, Train, and Car. We recommend renting a car as the best way to see Meteora is to drive around to its many lookouts. Going early in the morning before the tour buses is a must.

When visiting Greece, make sure to give yourself 3 days in Athens before heading off to the golden beaches of the islands. The capital city of Greece has a blend of ancient archaeological sites fitting in harmony with the everyday lives of the people. Few cities can compete with the wonder of Athens. The ancient Acropolis towers over this beautiful city with The Parthenon, built between 447-432 BC standing at its center.

Athens has it all. Tasty cuisine, culture, history, and vibrant nightlife. Athens is one of the best places in Greece for a blend of history and excitement. From the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Temple of Hephaestus to its stunning rooftop patios and delicious food, it is a must-stop on any Greece Itinerary. Read more: The Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Where to Stay in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens – We’ve stayed in several neighborhoods around Athens, but recommend staying near Syntagma Square or Monasteraki Square.

For luxury accommodations, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Grand Bretagne . This Ultra-luxury hotel with a rooftop restaurant/bar/pool and full-service spa has some of the best views in Athens. Check out Availability & Prices  Trip Advisor  /   Booking.com

This past summer found an affordable hotel with beautiful views of the Acropolis at the Astor Hotel . But we have a full article breaking down Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

One of our favorite places in Greece just so happens to be one of the most recent places we visited. Epirus is located in northwestern Greece, bordered by Albania and the Ionian Sea. This is a huge region of Greece that is perfect for nature lovers. We suggest spending at least a week in Epirus as there is so much to do. Read all about it at Places to Visit in Epirus – The Best Kept Secret in Greece

This incredible region is filled with mountain villages, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, this is a fantastic destination that has yet to be discovered. Making a base in the city of Ioannina we explored the stunning Stone Arch Bridges of Zagori to the most impressive monastery outside Meteora, the Kipina Monastery.

For our adventures all around Epirus, we used  Alpine Zone  which is the leader in adventure tourism around Epirus.  Check out Alpine Zone  to book your own Epirus, Adventures.

5. Ioannina

The capital of Epirus is the City of Ioannina and this city will surprise you. It is filled with Byzantine history, beautiful monasteries and museums, and lively nightlife. The most important place to see in Ioannina is the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake.

The Monastery of Philanthropists which dates back to 1204 is one of three very important monasteries in Greece including Meteora and the Mount Athos Monastery. But there is so much more to Ioannina making it a must-visit on a Greek vacation. Read more: Things to do in Ioannina – A Little-Known Greece Escape

How to Get to Epirus : It is a 1h 15 min flight to the capital of Epirus, Ioannina (pronounced, Yo-ah-nah-nah) from Athens or you can rent a car. It is only a 4h 30min drive from Athens to Ioannina and getting to see the Greek countryside is a real treat. We know, we’ve done it!

Where to Stay in Ioannina

Ioannina is a great place to make a base to explore Epirus. Rent a car and do day trips to the surrounding villages and attractions.

Hotel du Lac is one of the best places to stay in Ioannina located within walking distance (20 minutes) of Old Town. See it on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

The Lake Hotel is also a popular conference center with a beautiful pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. Check rates and availability on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

How to get to Ioannina: You can fly directly to Ioannina from Athens International Airport. There are daily flights to and from Athens. There are also buses from Thessaloniki which is just 3 hours away and long-distance buses from Athens.

This region of Greece has everything from beaches that rival the Cyclades Islands to the Old Town of Parga complete with traditional whitewashed houses and bright blue waters. We fell in love with the town of Parga and were surprised to see that it is one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece!

Parga rivaled the best of the Greek Islands without the over-tourism. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

The main attraction of Parga is Parga Castle where you can hike up for beautiful views of the colorful buildings lining the beach. Parga is located on the mainland, but it certainly feels like a Greek Isle, so even if you don’t make it to nearby Corfu, you will get your feel of what a Greek Island vacation feels like in Parga.

Nearby Valtos Beach which is often named one of the best beaches in Greece and Sivota, Preveza and Plataria have beautiful beaches as well. Make sure to relax at a beach bar to enjoy the local seafood, this part of Greece is famous for its gastronomy, which says a lot since Greek food, in general, is so amazing!

How to get to Parga: The closest airports to Parga are Aktion National Airport in Preveza (65 km) and Ioannina National Airport (103 km). From one of these airports, we suggest you rent a car to explore the area, or  Prime Transfer Services is a superb company owned by our friend Vasili who can get you around from place to place in safety and comfort.  Visit his website  to book day tours and transfers around Epirus, Greece.

Zagori is located just outside of Ioannina and if you have a car it is an easy day trip to enjoy the adventure capital of Epirus, but we suggest making a base in the mountainous village of Metsovo.

There is the Katogi Averoff Hotel and Winery and the beautiful Averoff Gallery to see. It makes for the perfect base to enjoy all the things to do in Vikos from its scenic hiking trails to historic monasteries.

Zagori is most famous for its stone bridges, but the Vikos Gorge is not to be missed. This is one of the natural wonders of Greece and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the deepest gorge in the world. With hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and rich flora, this picturesque region of Greece is not to be missed.

8. Zakynthos (Zante)

While each and every Greek Island is beautiful, Zakynthos (also known as Zante in Greek) in particular, has a beautiful beach. Navagio Beach is a stunning scene of white sand, with chalky white sea cliffs reaching up from the deep azure waters. Perhaps the most famous beach in the Greek Islands, Navagiao Beach, aka Shipwreck Beach is surrounded by high white cliffs surrounding turquoise waters.

Shipwreck Beach is accessible only by boat tour making it even more pristine. You can book a small private excursion directly to the smuggler’s cove. Zakynthos is also one of the best islands for scuba diving in Greece. If you want to enjoy the water this is the island to do it.

Where to Stay in Zakynthos

Where to Stay in Zanynthos – On the East Coast of Zakynthos is the town of Zante. It is a good place to stay for nightlife and ease of getting around.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Zante is one of the seven Ionian islands. It is known as one of the best places in the Greek Islands for nightlife. But the island has so much to offer with ancient history, some of the country’s best beaches, and fantastic traditional Greek food. Read More: Things to do in Zante Greece

How to Get to Zakynthos – Ferries run to Zakynthos Island from Peloponnese. There are also flights to Zakynthos.

There is nothing better than island hopping when visiting Greece, and the beautiful island of Crete is a must stop on any Greek Vacation. Crete the largest island of all the Greek Islands and it certainly has the best beaches in Greece. You’ll also see the traditional villages and whitewashed houses that we’ve all come to know of the south.

This island has it all with high peaks, deep gorges, and pristine sandy beaches, Crete is the perfect destination for your next Greece adventure! Don’t miss taking a hike through Samaria Gorge, it is certainly one of Greece’s Natural Wonders. This national park is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. And be sure to see Elafonisi Beach which is often considered the best beach in Greece. Read more: 23 Unique Things to Do in Crete

How to Get to Crete – We took a very pleasant ferry ride to Crete from Santorini. There are ferries from Athens to Crete, but it is 7 hours long. I would recommend flying to Crete as there are regular short flights to Heraklion.

10. Knossos

One of the best places on the island of Crete is Knossos. Make sure to get out to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site with your own eyes. This archaeological museum contains the palace of King Minos.

We rented a car to see this and highly recommend being mobile on your Greece Holidays. We always found that having a car rental allowed us to see the everyday life of Greek residents and to get off the beaten path. Compare prices here

Knossos is a 2000-year-old ancient site that dates back to the Minoan civilization. This large bronze age archeological site is one of the best preserved in Greece and is considered one of the best museums in the country.

• This private tour is an excellent way to see the best of Knossos and Heraklion City. Take a guided tour of Knossos, see the highlights of the main city of Crete, tour the old Heraklion, and try some traditional Greek food.

How to get to Crete from Athens – Crete is a long ferry ride from Athens being 5 hours. But if you break it up while you visit other islands in Greece like we did, taking the ferry is a great way to get around. There are also daily flights from Athens to the island of Crete.

Pelion is a beautiful region of Greece, located on the Pelion Peninsula of mainland Greece. Located between Athens and Thessaloniki Pelion is filled with picturesque villages that you must visit including Tsagarada, Makrinitsa, and Milies. Read More: Pelion Greece – Visiting the Unknown Paradise of Greece

Also, if you want to visit the locations of the movie Mama Mia, this is the place to be. Much of the movie was filmed in the coastal village of Damouchari. The coastal city of Volos is a beautiful city was home to  Jason and the Argonauts if you love ancient Greek mythology, this is a must-stop.

Where to Stay in Pelion

Where to Stay in Pelion – We stayed at the 12 Months Luxury Resor t in Tsagarada. There are local shuttles that take you around Pelion if you don’t have a car and this was a beautiful retreat.

How to Get to Pelion: If you are flying, the main hub for Pelion is Volos. It is a five-hour scenic drive north of Athens en route to another major Greek City, Thessaloniki in Northern Greece.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos was a surprising destination that takes you off the beaten path in Greece. With beautiful beaches and a thriving nightlife, Skiathos is popular with local tourists. With our car, we had a chance to explore the island and a highlight was visiting the Evangelistria Monastery founded in 1894.

Located in the northwest Aegean sea, in the Sporades archipelago, Skiathos feels like what Crete or Santorini would have been 20 years ago. This island has the same lovely whitewashed houses, sandy beaches, and the same vibe as the more popular Greek islands.

The best evenings we had in Skiathos were spent relaxing in a beachfront tavern sipping sparkling wine while eating traditional Greek food followed by spectacular sunsets while strolling along the waterfront.

Where to Stay in Skiathos

Where to Stay in Skiathos – We stayed at La Piscine Art Hotel. It was very central to everything.

How to Get to Skiathos: Ferries depart daily from Volos and Agios Konstantinos. You can take your car, (like we did) on the ferries and it is a great way to get around the island to explore its hidden beaches and beautiful villages.

13. Skopelos

Skopelos is a gorgeous island with the typical whitewashed houses with blue doors and terracotta roofs, picturesque monasteries clinging to its coast and stunning beaches. Skopelos wasn’t at the top of our list of wonderful places in Greece until we had the chance to visit this gorgeous Greek island.

Located just a hop skip and a jump from Skiathos, Skopelos is another Mama Mia destination filled with incredible scenery. . There are 360 monasteries and churches, blue waters made for diving and snorkeling, and impressive beaches with white limestone cliffs.

Where to Stay in Skopelos – The Skopelos Holidays Hotel & Spa was a lovely 5-star hotel in the main town of Skopelos where we enjoyed scenic views of the hills and bay.

How to Get to Skopelos – Ferries depart mainland Greece to Skopelos from Thessaloniki and Volos. There are also several ferries a day leaving from Skiathos. We suggest combining a trip with Skiathos, Pelion and Skopelos.

14. Costa Navarino

While the Greek islands are considered one of the best places to visit in Greece for beaches, we feel that Costa Navarino in the Southwest corner of the Peloponnese region on mainland Greece rivals the best of them. Located on the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea in Messinia, few tourists visit this amazing place in Greece.

Messinia is a destination unto itself with luxury resorts, olive groves, and picturesque villages making it one of our favorite places to visit in Greece. People know of the ancient ruins of Athens, but the city of Messene in the Peloponnese is just as impressive with fewer tourists. Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

Where to Stay in Costa Navarino

Where to stay in Costa Navarino – The Westin Costa Navarino Resort

How to get to Costa Navarino – Costa Navarino is a 3-hour drive from Athens. We rented a car from Athens and it was a great way to have the freedom to explore its historical sites on our own

15. Voidokilia Beach

Not far from Costa Navarino is Voidokilia Beach, the most beautiful beach we’ve ever seen. Shaped like the Greek letter Omega, Voidokilia Beach is the place of legends. Homer referenced this beach in the Odyssey and it was believed to be used by King Nestor, the ancient king of Pylos. Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

16. Messene

While everyone knows of the ancient ruins of the Acropolis, Temple of Apollo, or the Temple of Poseidon, not many have heard of the ancient city of Messene.

This well-preserved city of ancient Greece is a must-visit to see its ancient stadium and have it all to yourself. Messene is one of the Best Places in Greece Free of Crowds and Filled with centuries of history, it withstood many sieges by both the Macedonians and the Spartans.

It is not nearly as visited as other ancient destinations in Greece but it was definitely one of our favourites. We had the chance to visit Messene free from crowds, walking through the Hellenistic agora, theatre, and stadium with nobody else around. If you visit Costa Navarino, be sure to add the Ancient City of Messene Greek travel list.

Where to stay in Messene – We stayed at the Westin Costa Navarino and took a day trip to Messene, but there are plenty of places to stay nearby. You can browse them all here on TripAdvisor .

17. Kalamata

The port city of Kalamata is also the capital city of Messinia. This is a great place for fans of theatre and the arts to visit. That’s because the main draw here is the Castle of Isabeau. The International Dance Festival is held here annually. 

This site is a massive amphitheater that offers a view of the entire city. You will also get to see the various influences both the Venetians and the Turks had on the architecture of the structure. And of course, there are plenty of museums to visit while you’re here as well. Therefore, you should be sure to take your time exploring this city.

18. Thessaloniki

While we are in the area, be sure to keep driving to visit Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the capital of Greek Macedonia in Northern Greece. It has a feel of being in Turkey with Turkish Baths and monuments from the Byzantine and Roman eras.

Be sure to walk around the old town to see ancient sites like the Roman Market, Hammams, and Byzantine Churches. Don’t miss the White Tower which is the symbol of Thessaloniki, the 15th-century tower reaches 33 meters into the air.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki – Electra Palace is a luxury hotel overlooking Aristotelous Square, facing the Thermaikos Gulf.

How to Get to Thessaloniki – The international airport of Macedonia welcomes flights from several countries around the world. Being a major city in Greece, it is easy to get to Thessaloniki by air, train, bus, and ferry. It is also a popular cruise destination in Greece.

19. Mount Olympus National Park

When we hiked Mount Olympus, I couldn’t believe that we were actually on this mythical mountain. Located in Thessaly, Mount Olympus stands 2,917 m (9,570 ft) high and its natural beauty is not to be missed. Passing through waterfalls and dense forests, the mythical mountain feels worlds away from civilization.

Even if you only climb a portion of the Mountain of the Gods, do it. A good place to start is at the nearby town of Litochoro. We entered at the Prionia trailhead and walked down from there on this lovely day trip in Greece. If you are a fan of ancient Greek mythology, you must see Mount Olympus with your own eyes.

How to Get to Mount Olympus – As you have probably guessed, we feel that the best way for getting around Greece is by car and highly recommend a car rental . But you can also get there by public bus from Thessaloniki and Athens.

How to Get to Messene – You can take a bus from Athens which is approximately 3 1/2 Hours. Buses also run from Kalamata and Costa Navarino organizes day tours to Messene.

20. Mykonos

Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades Islands group in the Aegean Sea and has long been one of the most popular places in Greece for twenty-somethings getting away from it all.

It is the second most visited place in Greece right after Santorini and with good reason. This beautiful island is world famous golden sand beaches falling into crystal clear waters attract people to its shores for beach time and nightlife. Read more: 22 Best Things to do in Mykonos, Greece

But there is more to the island than partying and nightlife. There are many historic places. Be sure to visit the archaeological site of Delos the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Mykonos is best known for its beautiful windmills lining the shore which have become the symbol of the island. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they are incredibly well preserved.

It is fitting that the town of Alefkandra is known as Little Venice. With its charming wooden balconies hanging over the sea, it was once home to rich merchants of Venice .

How to Get to Mykonos – Like all the Greek islands, it is easy to get there by ferry from the other islands. It is possible to take the ferry from Athens as well. You can also fly directly from Athens or your home country.

Known as Knights Island, Rhodes is a Greek Island on the Aegean Sea that is draped in history and natural beauty. Inhabited since prehistoric times a visit to Rhodes offers the perfect blend of history and beautiful scenery. The medieval town of Rhodes and its ancient ruins makes Rhones one of the best islands to visit in Greece for History

Notable in Rhodes is the Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes Old Town, Palace of the Grand Master, and relaxing at Lindos Beach (aka Limanaki Agios Pavlos). Rhodes was an important location for the Trojan War in 1184 BC where the Dorians were. It has survived centuries of earthquakes and wars making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Greece. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

Combined with ancient history, great beaches, and nightlife, it is also one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. A part of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes (like many other Greek Islands) has golden sandy beaches and crystal clear azure waters.

How to Get to Rhodes – Piraeus port Airport on Rhodes is one of the busiest airports in Greece and regular flights fly to Rhodes from several destinations. Regular ferries from Athens Piraeus port to Rhodes.

Corfu is hardly a hidden gem, and, in peak season, the island does get a little swamped by mass tourism. However, Corfu is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are visiting off-season or in the shoulder seasons.

Corfu is Greece’s greenest island. It also has lots of historical sites dotted around the island. Corfu Town is perhaps the epicenter of history in Corfu and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to Corfu: Corfu International Airport is situated within a short taxi ride (or half an hour’s walk) of Corfu Town, and it has regular flights from many major European cities.

Delphi Archaeological Site is a famous place to visit in Greece. This ancient temple located at the top Mount Parnassus dedicated to the Greek God Apollo is awe-inspiring. The ancient Greeks, revered Delphi s their center of worship.

One of the best things to see in Greece is Delphi. Why? because of its history and setting. With the Temple of Apollo standing all at is center. Delphi dates back to the 8th century BC and is one of the top destinations in Greece for beauty and history. The ancient temple complex of Apollo sitting atop the high mountain makes for an incredible scene.

Book this highly rated private day tour from Athens to Delphi where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Delphi Archaeological Site and marvel at ancient statues of the Charioteer and the Sphinx of Naxos at the Delphi Archeological Museum

How to Get to Delphi – Delphi is a popular day tour from Athens that you can organize an easy excursion to. You can also take a bus to Delphi. It is 3 hours from Athens. We highly recommend renting a car.

24. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is an area located in the northern part of Greece . It is famous for its three peninsulas known as “the three legs” – Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. One of the most interesting places in Halkidiki is Mount Athos Monastery. Mount Athos Monastery is one of the three important monasteries in Greece. The others are Meteora and Ioannina in Epirus.

Halkidiki is probably one of the best places to visit in Greece that you’ve never heard of. Compared to the thousands of islands in Greece, tourists have yet to discover Halkidiki. It is popular with neighboring Bulgaria and Romanian sunseekers but it will soon catch on with the rest of Europe I am sure. Read more about Halkidiki here .

How to Get to Halkidiki – From Thessaloniki,  a car transfer  can be arranged to the hotel or even a car rental. Once you get to your hotel there are several options to rent a car in the main resorts, but probably it is better to get one at Thessaloniki airport. You will need it anyway to explore the area!

25. Athens Riviera

If you are visiting Athens and don’t have time to make your way to the islands, the Athens Riviera is a great place to visit in Greece. We spent a long weekend enjoying the stretch of the Athens Riviera just a short drive outside the city. You can hire a taxi from Athens or rent a car. Our hotel the Vincci Ever Eden Hotel offered discounted transfers from Athens International Airport.

26. Poseidon’s Temple – Cape Sounion

Even if you don’t stay overnight on the Athens Riviera, a day trip from Athens to see Poseidon’s Temple is a must. It took us several trips to Greece before seeing this imposing temple on the shore of the Ionian Sea and it is worth the trip.

The ancient world loved honoring its Greek Gods and Poseidon’s Temple is the most impressive simply due to its location. You can book this day tour from Athens.

Where Should You Go in Greece for the First Time?

When visiting Greece for the first time, we suggest flying into Athens and spending three days exploring the ancient ruins, the Acropolis, and National Archaeological Museum and enjoying its fun nightlife. After getting acquainted with Athens, we then suggest moving on to Santorini, Mykonos , or Crete to enjoy a taste of the Greek Islands.

What are the Most Beautiful Places in Greece?

There are many beautiful places in Greece from the monasteries of Meteora to the rugged beauty of Epirus , but we think that the most beautiful place in Greece is Santorini.

This beautiful island lives up to the hype with traditional whitewashed villages lining the slopes of the high seacliffs overlooking the caldera. While it is very busy with day tours and cruise ships in peak season, we suggest spending 5 days to a week in Santorini in shoulder season to really get a feel for this Cyclades Island.

And these are the best places to visit in Greece. We love exploring this incredible country and going back to Greece again and again, so we want to know where to go next. Where have you been in Greece? Is there a place we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments below.

With each visit to a new destination in Greece, we are mesmerized by its beauty. There are so many places in Greece, it could take a lifetime and we are okay with that. We look forward to going back to Greece again and again.

Plan Your Next Trip to Greece With These Resources

• 25 Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece
• Best Greek Islands to Visit
• Ultimate Greek Food Guide – Traditional Dishes to Eat in Greece
• Halkidiki Greece – The Complete Travel Guide
• Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
• The Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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6 thoughts on “26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024”

I’m surprised you left out Hydra. The town is quaint and car-free so pedestrian and donkey travel is it (unless you can take a water taxi there). It’s very beautiful! We loved it on our trip in Sept.

A very informative read. Thank you for this good quality knowledge, great work done. I will tweet your post and share this information with the world.

This is a precise, clear, and yet informative read. Thank you for this, Cudos to you for this information,great work done.

Santorini and Mykonos are beautiful places. They have been on my bucket list for so long. God knows when wil I get the chance to visit them.

Evia Island – the second largest island in Greece. It’s about an hours train ride from Athens. Beautiful place.

The guidelines of train schedule is very awesome and really helpful to me about the Greece

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