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Is Athens Worth Visiting? 13 Pros and Cons of Visiting Athens, Greece

• April 22, 2023

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I recently visited Athens, Greece for the first time, a city I’d been dreaming about for what felt like forever. I had high expectations .

After all, this is a city with more history and ancient ruins than you can shake a stick at and, after the eye-watering prices of the Greek Islands, I was excited to spend time in a more affordable area of Greece.

Athens… isn’t for everybody , though. Before my visit, I didn’t realise that a lot of people actually really dislike Athens. Some people even told me that Athens is not worth visiting at all!

So, is Athens worth visiting? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of visiting Athens so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money or not.

Before we get started, I’d like to remind you that the best city in the world for one person is the worst for someone else, so I can’t definitively tell you whether or not you’ll like Athens.

What I can do is tell you the reasons Athens is worth visiting, as well as the reasons why you might not like it, so you can decide for yourself. Stick around until the end, because I’ll share my honest, unfiltered opinions on Athens !

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Reasons Athens is Worth Visiting

1. it’s a convenient hopping off point to the islands.

Athens has three ports : Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion. These ports make Athens an ideal transport hub as they connect the mainland to the numerous islands of Greece.

Piraeus, the largest port, offers the most extensive network of ferries to various destinations like Paros , Santorini, Naxos , and many more.

Rafina and Lavrion, on the other hand, serve the eastern coast of Attica and offer ferry services to the northern Aegean islands.

With so many different ferry companies operating out of these three ports, competition among them is fierce, resulting in competitive prices, making Athens a sensible place to begin your island-hopping adventure .

2. Athens is cheaper than the Greek Islands

If you’re looking for an affordable way to experience the wonders of Greece, Athens is the perfect place to start. Parts of Athens are definitely expensive, like any city, but overall it’s far cheaper than the Greek islands , which are… expensive, to say the least.

One of the main reasons Athens is cheaper than the Greek islands is thanks to the huge range of accommodation on offer. With more options comes more competition and lower prices!

Not to mention, food and drink is also much cheaper than on the Greek Islands, especially compared to the expensive island of Santorini , where I paid a whopping €13 for a Greek Salad!

In addition, attractions in Athens aren’t ~incredibly~ cheap, but they’re definitely worth it.

After all, the city is home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins and artifacts in the world, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Combination tickets like the Athens Combined Ticket can save you money on some of Athens’ top attractions.

All in all, Athens is ideal if you want to explore Greece on a tight budget .

3. Athens has an international airport

Located just 33 kilometres from the heart of the city , Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is a transport hub that connects Greece with the rest of the world.

Competition between airlines keeps prices relatively low, making it cheaper to get to Athens than other areas of Greece. With a wide range of national and international flights, getting to Athens has never been easier or more affordable!

But the convenience doesn’t stop there – Athens Airport also boasts an array of domestic flights so you can effortlessly hop between destinations in the country.

Thanks to Athens’ airport you’ll probably end up here at some point in your Greek adventure. The city’s proximity to the airport makes it ideal for a layover of a couple days or two .

4. It’s easy to cover the highlights in a day or two

Athens a city that is perfect for quick visits, as you can easily cover its highlights in just one or two days .

The city’s most famous attractions are all centred around the Acropolis, making it easy to navigate and see the top sights in a short amount of time.

A visit to the Acropolis is a must, as it offers an incredible view of Athens and its surrounding areas. The Parthenon, which is located on the Acropolis, is one of the most famous ruins in the world, and is definitely worth a visit.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is another important attraction that can be visited in just a few hours.

5. Athens is close to some beaches

Although city centre of Athens itself doesn’t have any beaches, there are loads that are easy to visit from the city on public transport. 

One of the closest beaches to Athens is Glyfada Beach , located just 16km from the city centre. With crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and a charming promenade, Glyfada Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

It’s also home to many trendy beach bars and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a day soaking up the sun.

Another must-see beach near Athens is Edem , which is just a 20 minute drive from the city. The beach has clear turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming and enjoying water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and kite surfing.

Overall, Athens’ proximity to these fantastic beaches makes it a great destination for those looking to combine history and culture with beach relaxation .

There’s no sugar-coating it – these are hardly the best beaches in Athens, but a beach is a beach at the end of the day!

6. It’s the ideal day trip hub

As the capital city, Athens serves as a hub for day trips all over the country , making it an ideal base for travellers wanting to explore numerous areas of Greece.

One of the most popular day trips from Athens is a visit to Delphi , located just two and a half hours outside the city. Delphi was once considered the centre of the ancient world and was home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Another popular day trip from is the car-free island of Hydra , known for its picturesque harbour and traditional stone houses, which is just a short ferry-ride away from Athens.

Athens’ role as a hub for day trips all over Greece makes it the ideal place to base yourself for a few days as you explore its surroundings.

7. The ancient ruins really are All That™

For all the history buffs out there, Athens is a dream destination. This city has been around for more than 3,000 years! Even with all the modernization that has taken place, Athens has managed to preserve the remarkable remnants of its ancient past.

Athens’ ancient ruins are probably the main reason people visit the city, and there’s just no way of arguing against it – they’re SO worth visiting.

Even if you’re not interested in history at all, the Parthenon is incredible to visit, and well worth the time and money it takes. It’s one of the most famous structures in the world for a reason!

The most noteworthy ancient ruins in Athens are, of course, the ones located on the Acropolis . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true architectural marvel, and the Parthenon is undoubtedly its crowning jewel.

And yes, the Parthenon looks even better in real life than in photos!

8. Athens has a good public transport system

Athens’ good public transportation system is another reason why the city is worth visiting for travellers. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, and metro lines which means that getting around the city is a breeze .

The Athens Metro, in particular, is a modern and efficient system that boasts four lines covering over 85 km of track.

It connects many of the city’s major historical sites, including the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Additionally, the trains run frequently and are relatively inexpensive, making the metro accessible to budget-conscious travellers.

It’s also worth mentioning that since many of Athens’ top attractions are in the same area it’s actually really easy to walk from attraction to attraction , which will save you money.

Athens’ good public transportation system makes it so easy to explore without having to worry about renting a car or getting lost in a new place .

Reasons Athens isn’t Worth Visiting

9. athens is actually pretty ugly.

Honestly, Athens is a bit of a letdown in terms of its appearance. The city is pretty run down and you can see a lot of poverty and graffiti everywhere you go.

Don’t get me wrong, the city is definitely worth visiting for its ancient ruins and rich history, but if you’re looking for a picturesque destination, Athens isn’t it.

The streets are filled with dilapidated and abandoned buildings with fading paint, and while some people might find it charming, I just found it depressing.

The pollution doesn’t help, either – you’ll definitely notice the smog and the general grittiness of the city.

Of course, the graffiti is another thing altogether. It’s hard to ignore the overwhelming amount of it that covers pretty much every surface in the city. And most of it isn’t street art – it’s just random scribbles and tags.

Athens has been through a lot in recent years, so it makes sense that being “beautiful” certainly hasn’t been the city’s main priority, but if you’re heading to Athens expecting to see a beautiful city you’re going to be disappointed.

10. Tourist sites are super crowded in summer

The absolute worst part of Athens in summer is the crowds , which can get totally insane at the city’s top tourist attractions.

At the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with strangers trying to catch a glimpse of ancient artifacts while also trying not to pass out from heat exhaustion. Fun times, right?

And forget about trying to get a good photo. You’ll be lucky if you can even lift your arm high enough to snap a shot without some other tourist’s head in the way.

Plus, all that jostling and shuffling takes away from the experience of actually appreciating the history and beauty of these sites.

So, unless you love being squished in with a bunch of strangers in 100-degree heat, Athens may not be worth visiting in the summer .

11. Athens didn’t feel 100% safe

While Athens definitely has its perks, safety isn’t always one of them. Especially if you’re doing solo travel in Greece , you might want to exercise some caution when out and about in the city, especially at night.

I personally felt uneasy several times in Athens , and did not feel comfortable leaving my hostel, which was in quite a rough area, in the dark. Of course, “feeling safe” is often subjective , but I’m sharing my experience. You can check the safety stats here .

It’s not uncommon to see pickpockets and purse-snatchers in crowded areas like Monastiraki and Omonia.

Additionally, the Exarchia neighborhood has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, with a history of protests, demonstrations, and anarchist activity.

Of course, this isn’t to say that you should avoid Athens altogether because it’s unsafe – far from it. But it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate precautions to keep yourself safe.

Stick to well-lit areas and avoid wandering too far off the beaten path, especially if you’re on your own.

12. The beaches near Athens aren’t the best

While Athens does have some beaches nearby, let’s face it, they really aren’t anything special. Sure, there are some nice stretches of sand and the water can be clear, but these beaches are often overcrowded and have litter problems .

So while Athens might have a few nice beach options, they just don’t compare to what you can find elsewhere. Especially not the Greek islands! If you’re looking for a beach vacation, Athens isn’t it.

Instead, it’s a city break destination that has beach options. Does that make sense?

13. You can cover the highlights in just a day or two

This was listed as one of the reasons Athens is worth visiting, but to many visitors (including myself) the fact that you can see and do all of Athens’ best attractions in a day or two is a bit disappointing.

It makes it difficult to argue that Athens is worth visiting for an extended period of time.

Don’t get me wrong, the Acropolis and the Panathenaic Stadium are all impressive and well worth a visit. But I’d argue that they’re only must-see sights in the city, and you can easily fit them all into one day

When you take into account the drawbacks of spending more time in Athens – the crowds, the pollution, the lacklustre beaches, and the safety concerns – it’s hard to justify spending more than a couple of days there .

Plus, you’ll probably find that after you’ve seen the major attractions, there isn’t much else to do in Athens that couldn’t be replicated in other, more enjoyable destinations.

Final Thoughts – Is Athens Worth Visiting?

Okay! Here is the part when I tell you my honest opinion on whether or not Athens is worth visiting. And remember, this is my OPINION only, so don’t come for me.

The short answer is I’m glad I went to Athens, and I do think it’s worth visiting, but I don’t want to go back .

I feel like one short visit of just a day or two is plenty of time in Athens. The ugliness and sketchiness of the city outside of the super touristy areas had me wanting to leave, and glad that I was only staying for two nights.

The Acropolis makes Athens worth visiting . Even if pretty much everything else felt “meh” to me, there’s nothing that compares to the Parthenon. It’s incredible! You should visit Athens so that you can see it. That’s probably it, in my opinion.

So, while Athens is an interesting city to visit, especially if you’re a history buff or a lover of classical architecture, it’s definitely a short break kind of place rather than a destination for a longer trip.

Spend a day or two taking in the sights, then head off to the Greek Islands to round out your trip. You’ll get the best of both worlds – a taste of Athens’ ancient history, without the inconvenience of staying too long in a city that has its fair share of downsides.

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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Is Athens worth visiting? 21 Reasons to Travel to Athens

September 30, 2022

Vera Andrews

Is Athens worth visiting? In short, yes, yes it is. But you do need some inside info. Here’s twenty-one reasons to visit Athens plus what you need to know to make the most of Greece’s capital.

Table of Contents

21 Reasons to Visit Athens

Is it worth visiting athens.

Is it worth visiting Athens? As the home of democracy and capital of Greece, you’d think the obvious answer would be yes. So why are so many people hesitant?

Well, compared to the idyllic beauty of the Greek islands that bathe in blue, Athens has a grittier, less pretty edge. If you just turn up and wander around, you’re likely to leave disappointed.

Should you skip Athens?

Many people who plan to visit Greece don’t always see Athens as their destination point. Yes, it is a nice metropolis with great nightlife and excellent restaurants, but when you have cruises around Santorini, Crete, or Corfu ready to welcome you with their soft sand beaches and emerald waters, it is easy to skip it, especially if your vacation days are short.

However, you may be missing out on a lot more than you expect. Athens was the heart of Ancient Greece, the place where rulers conducted their business, artists put their skills to work, and philosophers tried to uncover the mysteries of the universe.

A part of their work is still conserved in archaeological sites and museums, and the grandeur is real. Add luxurious rooftop restaurants, incredible concerts held in ancient venues, and the famous Greek hospitality, and you can get a picture (just a picture) of what it would mean to visit one of the liveliest European capitals.

So, if you are wondering what you can do in Athens, wonder no more! Here are 21 reasons to add this intriguing city to your Greece itinerary this year. So book your flight, book your hotel and get going!

Athens was home to philosophers who still influence us all

Every philosophy course starts with Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, inevitably leading back to the ancient times of thinking. If you want to walk in the footsteps of the greatest philosophers of Antiquity, you can still do it in Athens, although you will need a bit of imagination.

Plato’s Academy

Located in the Kolonus neighbourhood, the archaeological site holding the ruins of Plato’s Academy is open to locals and tourists for free. It is placed inside a beautiful and peaceful park where people come to play chess or enjoy a lovely picnic in the evenings.

Here sat one of the greatest academies in the world (some call it the first university) founded by Plato in 387 BC. You will discover the ancient ruins of the Gymnasium’s court where athletes used to train and the remains of a cistern – the ancient bath where they cleaned themselves after training.

As you start reconstructing the campus atmosphere, you can find help inside the Plato’s Academy Museum and even get a taste of what Plato’s lessons looked like by participating in an interactive beginners’ philosophy workshop held by a facilitator with a background in Classical Studies.

Aristotle’s Lyceum

Not far from the Hellenic Parliament, one of Athens’ more fascinating historical sites awaits its visitors. Philosophy lovers can stroll around the remains of Aristotle’s Lyceum just like the great maestro did with his students, discussing the principles of the natural world along a generous path edged by pomegranate trees and exotic herbs brought by Alexander the Great from his conquests.

Founded in 330 BC, the structure had a ‘steam room’, and you can still see the pipes used to funnel in the heat to create the vapours.

Socrates’ Prison

Lastly, as you climb Philopappos Hill, you will stumble into a group of caves, iron bars and an inscription that says ‘Socrates’ Prison’. Sentenced with the death penalty, many Greeks believe that this is the place where he spent his last days, based on some indirect proof like the presence of hemlock and the fact that a statue of Socrates was found here. 

Athens brims with Archaeological Treasure

In case of confusion, the Acropolis is the hill and the Parthenon, the temple at the top. However, all across the hill, you will find remnants of ancient Greece…

The Temple of the Parthenon

The best time of the day to visit the Parthenon is late in the afternoon when the sun gives just a faint clue that it is about to fade away. As you climb the Acropolis Hill, you will see the huge Pendeli marble structure glinting under the heavy blue sky. You can also see it from several bars and restaurants across Athens.

Dedicated to Athena Parthenos or Athena the Virgin, the temple was built in the 5th century BC and is considered the masterpiece of the Doric architectural order. Originally, it was decorated with magnificent sculptures, many of them representing scenes from Greek mythology.

As you sit on one of the rocks scattered around the hill and look at this amazing piece of history, imagine how many important citizens of the Greek capital would have visited it daily. It truly is unforgettable.

Visit the World’s Oldest theatre

Plato didn’t think much about art (he merely saw it as an imitation of reality and considered it deceptive), but he did appreciate the cathartic essence of tragedies.

The Theatre of Dionysus , located on the south side of the Acropolis, was once the stage for Sophocles’ greatest tragedies. Euripides, Aeschylus, and Aristophanes also presented their plays here for the first time.

The shape of the theatre is still well preserved, and you can take a seat on the marble benches, imagining you are one of the first people in the world to see Aristophanes’ ‘The Frogs’ being staged.

And one of the world’s oldest markets

As you head down from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Acropolis, you will encounter the ruins of what used to be the heart of the city.

The Ancient Agora of Athens was the business place for every ancient Greek who had something to sell or needed to buy something.

Today, it is not as spectacular as it was in the – the excavations revealed a few rocks and structures – but history lovers won’t have a problem bringing it to life through their imagination.

And more temples

If you turn your eyes to the north of the site, you will have a nice surprise, as the Temple of Hephaestus is still standing strong on Kolonos Hill. It is dedicated to the patron saint of craftsmanship and fire.

The original Nike

On the same legendary hill, the Temple of Athena Nike shines like a piece of expensive ancient jewellery in the summer sun. It is often called ‘The Pearl of the Acropolis’ due to the care put into designing and decorating it.

The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike, one of the many embodiments of the goddess Athena. It is believed that the Greeks built it after a grand victory.

What was strange about this temple was that the statue of the goddess had no wings (it was common for Athena to be represented with wings). It was discovered later that the choice was symbolic to prevent her from ever leaving the temple.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus

Right in the middle of the city, surrounded by arteries of traffic, the Temple of Zeus still dominates the landscape. The Olympieion was a huge temple dedicated to Zeus that, like most Greek worshipping places, included a gigantic statue of the god. Today the temple reaches to the sky from a serene park that invites long walks and meditation.

Athens has world class museums

Is Athens worth visiting? Yes if you’re interested in art and history! Athens is a great place if you are a museum lover and is renowned not only for its ancient art collections but for modern and contemporary art exhibitions that attract thousands of tourists every year.

Here are some highlights:

The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens, founded at the end of the 19th century, houses an impressive number of artefacts. You could easily spend half a day here walking from room to room, just to discover more ancient art. The beautiful marble statues that once decorated the Parthenon and other important temples are here.

The Stathatos Collection contains superb pieces of jewellery among other objects, the most famous being the three hairnets made of gold displaying the busts of Aphrodite and Artemis and a diadem holding the representation of the Herculean knot in the centre.

Since the Greeks were great conquerors, many decorative objects were brought to Athens from Egypt and other territories they came in contact with. The Egyptian collection allows you to glimpse at the interior and exterior of sarcophagi and familiarise yourself with the ancient Egyptian gods.

You can end your walk in the Terracotta Room and gaze at the over 500 figurines carefully arranged in glass showcases. The attention to detail is incredible.

The New Acropolis Museum

The biggest attraction at the new Acropolis Museum brings an ancient neighbourhood back to life. You will be able to see how the old Greeks lived, what their streets and houses looked like, and what objects they used for cooking. If you are bringing the kids, this is a great place for them to learn more about the history of this ancient city and the history of humanity in general.

The Museum of Cycladic Art

As you step inside the museum, you may think you are looking at modern art since the naked human figurines are so simple and abstract. And you are right to feel this way since these objects were the source of inspiration for 20th-century artists like Constantin Brancusi or Amadeo Modigliani.

The Benaki Museum

There are many neoclassical buildings in Athens, but the one housing the Benaki Museum is special. It was the house of a wealthy cotton merchant who gathered an impressive art collection, open today to visitors. The stars are the reconstructions of the reception rooms after the mid-18th century stately mansions in Greek Macedonia, presenting a fusion between central European, Ottoman, and Byzantine decorative styles.

If you are visiting on a Thursday, you can stay late (the museum closes at midnight on this day) and have a glamorous dinner on the top of the building from where you can see the Acropolis and National Gardens.

The Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation

Picasso, van Gogh, Monet, Cezanne, Pollok, Degas, Braque, Chagall, Bonnard, Klee, Kandinsky… These are just a few of the big names you will find at this modern art gallery. Extremely rich in masterpieces, the Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation is one of the hidden gems of today’s Athens.

Athens hosts concerts in cool places

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is one of the oldest theatres in the world, built after a Roman model in 161 AD and fully restored in 1950. Since its restoration, grand names like Andre Rieu, Liza Minnelli, and Maria Callas have performed on its scene. It is the main venue for the annual Athens festival and a beautiful place to spend the evening. There are hundreds of events taking place here every year, so it is not difficult to find one to attend.

You can run through ancient Greece

Imagine the roar of the crowds back in the times of Hadrian when this stadium was inaugurated…

It is said that a thousand animals were sacrificed to fulfil their pleasure for circus and blood. Today it is a more peaceful place where morning joggers can test their resistance on the reconditioned track between 7:30 and 9 (you just need to fill out a form on their website to be allowed on the premises for free).

As you take your seat in the evening sun, waiting for the show to begin, you will inevitably think of the old gladiators and their battle to stay alive…

Shop and be seen at Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is the beating heart of Athens, with, of course, a past. Here, in 1843, the Athenians revolted against King Otto of Greece, demanding a constitution.

The main square bustles with people day and night and is usually the starting point for protests. During the summer, the bars are packed with tourists enjoying the Athenian sun while waiting for a concert to begin nearby.

Just a short walk from Syntagma Square, Ermou Street is truly heaven for shopping enthusiasts who could spend a whole day here. Best of all, the street is open only to pedestrians, so you don’t need to watch out for cars as you get caught in the shopping rush.

Gather trinkets at Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens. Here, between the Greek Agora and Roman Agora, you will find cobblestone paths and merchants selling local products on street benches. So, if you want to try street food or stock up on souvenirs then this is the place to be.

Tip: Look for the small icons manually painted by the monks from Mount Athos. These are the gems of the flea market.

You can taste all kinds of Greek food in Athens

At the crossroad between the Occident and the Orient, Greece is renowned for its delicious salads, lamb dishes, and syrup-bathed sweets.

It would be a sacrilege to leave the capital city without tasting Gyro , a traditional (and cheap) street food option that is worth waiting for in line. You may have tried it in your country, but nobody does the pita like the Greeks, and the ingredients are always fresh if you pick a location in the city centre.

Athens is also the best place to try the delicious Loukoumades. These tiny doughnuts are crispy on the exterior and fluffy on the interior and come with a delicious syrup and cinnamon topping. It is almost impossible to resist their alluring aroma if you stumble into a cart that sells them.

Mountains of syrup and pistachio go into making the famous Baklava. A small piece can be one of the best things you experience after a long walking day.

Beyond street food, Athens has plenty of restaurants that will serve you the best feta cheese drizzled with local olive oil, lamb dishes, and the traditional Retsina wine.

Check out our Athens food guide here.

Athens is the home of Greek night life

Greece’s largest city goes crazy at night with techno-blasting superclubs opening their doors after 10 pm and keeping them open until morning. The areas of Gazi and Monastiraki are the club-hoppers’ favourites due to their huge venues hosting international DJs and serving sumptuous cocktails.

If you prefer a more chill atmosphere, there are also plenty of pubs where you can listen to live music, dance, and sample some of the Greeks’ famous nectar of the gods.

You can spend the day at the beach in Athens

The city of Athens is so famous for its historic landmarks that it is easy to forget it has a port at the Aegean Sea. Sunbathing on Athens’ beautiful beaches is actually a great way to relax if you have a couple more days to spend in the capital.

The easiest accessible beach, located not too far from the city centre, is the Vouliagmeni. The waters are warm, the sand soft and welcoming, and you will find plenty of terraces here serving fresh fish and Greek salad.

If you are willing to go further on the island, don’t miss Schinias beach with its clear waters and beautiful vegetation.

And climb a mountain…

One of the best places to visit if you have more time is Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in Athens. You will follow a circular path to the top that will test your endurance, especially in the summer, but you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city. The sea shines spectacularly from here and, in the evening, you can watch the lights being turned on at the most important sites on the Acropolis.

If you are not sure your legs can stand the effort (it surely isn’t a short walk to the top), you can take the train, which will get you to your destination faster. But take into account that it travels through a tunnel, so you won’t be able to enjoy the natural beauty all around.

Once you are up, you can visit the church of Agios Georgios and head to the Orizontes restaurant for a grand-style dinner. Don’t forget to make a reservation though, as this is a very upscale place that is always full, especially during high season.

Athens is a great base for day trips

It is easy to book a day trip to one of the many Greek islands or towns around Athens. You can go to Delphi for more Greek history and mythology or visit Meteora if you are a fan of hiking.

Nemea offers a great experience for wine lovers who can visit the vineyards of this region and spend a splendid day walking across olive tree plantations.

So. Is Athens worth visiting?

Yes, it is! Athens has grown a lot over the past years, turning into a solid bucket-list destination. It is a fun city that enjoys great weather for most of the year. It is also extremely safe, and except for petty crime, which is common in all capitals, you don’t have to fear for your safety.

More importantly, Athens offers plenty of experiences that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Is Athens worth visiting? Yes, several times over.

More Travel Tips for Athens and 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.

And don’t forget Athens (as if you could!) Find  unusual things to do in Athens , retrace the steps of  Plato with a philosophy tour  and indulge with our  Athens Food Guide.

And finally, here’s the perfect packing list for Greece.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Athens [Greece]

• Last Updated on: Jan 12, 2024
• Read Time 11 mins
• Published: Jun 28, 2019

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Athens has been unceasingly rising towards the top of lists of travelers and travel agents around the globe during the past years. The city is now widely considered to be among the pantheon of European destinations for year-round vacations.

The Greek capital’s rise to fame was long overdue, and its streets are now brimming with visitors throughout the year.

Athens boasts an astonishing blend of cultural attractions, historical monuments, exquisite gastronomy, marvelous hotels, amazing nightlife, and magnificent beaches.

So if you’re wondering what it is that makes this beloved city such an exceptional destination, here are 10 reasons to visit Athens that will have you booking your next vacation as soon as possible.

Top-Notch Cultural Attractions in Athens

It should be no surprise that Athens is often called the cradle of Western civilization.

Arts, philosophy, history, mythology, science, linguistics, and the Athenians’ contributions to the development of Western culture over the millennia have been more than significant.

And not all is lost in the sands of time. A few of Greece’s most important cultural attractions like the Temple of Olympian Zeus , the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora , and the Temple of Hephaestus are situated in Athens.

Even if you’re not a culture vulture, visiting the birthplace of democracy and a tour of Athens’s most important historical attractions can give you a glimpse into the past and a better understanding of how the modern world was shaped.

Athens Uncovered: Must-Visit Places for Every Traveler

The weather in athens is ideal.

There is really no bad time to visit Athens.  The mild Mediterranean climate of Greece has gifted the capital city with mellow winters, sunny summers, and soothing temperatures in between.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, you can expect almost ideal weather conditions for your short city break or extended holiday.

The weather in Athens is perfect for vacationing all year round. Locals start heading towards the beaches near Athens as early as April, and most of the cafes and restaurants in Athens follow a strong al-fresco attitude and offer outdoor seating almost year-round.

If you’re a film buff, make sure to visit an open-air cinema in the city center for an unprecedented experience.

Vibrant Nightlife in Athens

The nightlife in Athens is nothing short of stellar. Countless bars and nightclubs suit every taste and accommodate any desire.

Even though troubled times, locals never ceased regularly roaming the city’s streets after sundown in search of good cheer. 

Due to its large size, Athens has several different nightlife hotspots that can sometimes extend to include entire neighborhoods, each one with its own unique style and character.

If you’re a night owl, be well prepared to spend considerable time exploring the city’s hidden charms.

Visit Athens and Experience the Greek Hospitality

Greek hospitality is not one of the legendary Greek myths. Hospitality is a major part of the Greek culture and there’s no better way to experience it than a trip to Athens.

Locals will happily go out of their way to help you with directions, tips, and advice and, of course, get to know you a little better.

The image of a vast metropolis that is always busy might make it seem odd at first, but given the chance, Athenians are very communicative and have a spontaneous urge to engage in conversation with travelers, especially over a glass of wine at their local tavern.

In this context, you can be sure that staying in one of the numerous hotels in Athens will be an incredible experience in its own right.

And it gets better: We have written an extensive article about all kinds of hotels in Athens and our recommendations for every type of accommodation. Check it out; you shouldn’t miss it!

Discover the Best Hotels in Athens: A Guide to the Best Areas to Stay

There are several beaches near athens.

What more can you ask for than sea, sun, and sand just a few kilometers away from the city center of a busy metropolis for a perfect vacation? 

Indeed, you might instantly think of the famous Greek islands when planning your holidays in Greece, but Athens holds some secrets to behold.

If you visit during summer, you’ll notice that half of the city’s population mysteriously disappears on weekends. The key to this enigma is all too simple. There are several magnificent beaches within a short radius of the city center that are perfect for a quick escape.

Greek Cuisine Is Just Wonderful

Even if you have never visited Greece before, you have probably heard about the famous Greek cuisine . Its simplistic brilliance, splendid taste, and fresh ingredients have been recognized worldwide.

And Athens is the place to be if you want to get a real taste of the evolving gastronomy scene of Greece.

The Greek capital teems with restaurants and every other kind of eatery, serving anything from traditional finger food to gourmet high-end molecular dishes and everything in between.

Restaurants in Athens: A Local’s Guide on Where to Eat in the Greek Capital

Day trips from athens.

Athens’ location in the center of Greece makes it ideal for some extraordinary day trips. While based in Athens, you can easily wander to many magnificent destinations.

Depending on what your interests are, you can explore the country’s mainland and witness some of the most phenomenal historical and religious sites like the unique Meteora and Delphi, head towards the seafront and Cape Sounion to marvel at the sunset , or even join a short luxurious cruise around the nearby islands in the Saronic Gulf .

And if these are not enough, check this article below and find out the best day trips from Athens! The possibilities are endless. 

Best Day Trips From Athens To: Ancient Sites – Islands – Towns

Athens offers amazing views.

Very few places can offer visitors such enchanting panoramas over the cityscape as Athens does.

Athens city is built within the confines of what is called the Attica Basin, surrounded by four large mountains, one at each end of the city. Nature lovers visit their lush green sides to admire the astonishing views from the top.

But there are also exquisite view opportunities within the city, with hills Lycabettus and Philopappos being the most popular.

Nevertheless, don’t be disappointed if all that seems like too much trouble. 

There are several rooftop restaurants and bars right in Athens’ city center that will allow you to enjoy your drink while marveling at the Parthenon from above, as well as magnificent hotels with views of the Acropolis.

One of them is the Acropolis View Hotel, located in Athens’s historical center and offers spectacular Parthenon views. The New Acropolis Museum and the metro station are just 650 m away. Check it on Booking.com to see photos, prices, and availability.

Acropolis View Hotels in Athens for All Budgets

Events in athens.

Athens is buzzing with extraordinary events all year round. Whether it’s Christmas or Easter celebrations, the springtime carnivals, an athletic event, a dramatic play at an ancient theater, a summer music festival, or just a spontaneous party, there’s always something special going on in the Greek capital.

Locals never miss a chance to celebrate every aspect of life. They usually employ an over-the-top approach that lures visitors to surprise and fascinate them incredibly .

Make sure to check what is on when you take your trip to Athens and attend any event to get closer to the local culture and witness the true Greek cheerfulness.

Shopping in Athens

It might not sound that special at first, but shopping in Athens is certainly an unparalleled experience. Here you can find everything from local products , and refined clothing at famous fashion designers’ stores to second-hand vintage knick-knacks on the streets.

Shopping in Athens is much more than practical for the locals. It involves long walks in the city followed by a cup of coffee, taking the form of a Sunday morning ritual.

Apart from the stores at Syntagma and Kolonaki, make sure to visit the flea market and the traditional food markets at Monastiraki for a quick and deep immersion in local Athenian culture.

A Local’s Guide to Monastiraki in Athens

Tips and recommendations for your next trip to athens.

In this short section, we will try to answer all the questions our readers ask regularly. At the same time, we’ll provide our local insight through tips and recommendations that will hopefully make planning your trip easier and help you have an amazing vacation in Athens.

In a few words, why should you visit Athens?

Athens offers a unique mix of history, culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. It’s probably the only place in the world where so much history in the form of monuments like the Parthenon and the Temple of Olympian Zeus is to be found right alongside busy shopping streets and charming bars and restaurants. To top it all off, plenty of stunning beaches near Athens are waiting to be explored.

Is Athens dangerous for tourists?

No. Athens is a fairly safe city compared to other European capitals. Of course, like any other major tourist destination, you should take all the standard precautions against petty crime in the streets like pickpocketing, especially at the city’s busiest spots. Nevertheless, you will not have any serious reasons to worry about your safety while visiting Athens.

What are three facts about Athens?

If we only had to choose the three most important facts about Athens we would mention the following: 1. It is the birthplace of democracy 2. It is Europe’s oldest capital city 3. It was the first European Capital of Culture

What is Athens most famous for?

Besides being the birthplace of the first democracy and the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is most well-known for being home to Acropolis Hill and the Parthenon temple.

What language is spoken in Greece?

The official language of Greece is Greek.

What is the name of the famous building in Athens?

The famous white temple you have probably seen in countless pictures online and on postal cards is the Parthenon. It’s an ancient temple that stands atop Acropolis Hill in the heart of the city center.

Do they speak English in Greece?

Yes. English is taught in Greek schools from quite early on. You will most probably have no trouble communicating with locals in English, especially with younger people. Many Greeks also speak French, German, and Italian.

Is Athens expensive?

Athens is quite cheap compared to other Western European capitals. Of course, it all depends on what kind of vacation you are looking for. Athens is home to ultra-luxurious hotels and upscale restaurants. However, you will most definitely be able to find numerous budget-friendly options for your trip.

What is the best location to stay in Athens?

The most sought-after locations to stay in Athens are all the neighborhoods that surround the Acropolis. Some of the most famous among them are Plaka , Petralona, Koukaki , Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Thisseio . These areas offer everything you could be looking for for your stay including public transportation, restaurants, shopping streets, and vivid nightlife.

How far is Athens from the sea?

There are several beaches close to Athens. Most notably, the popular coastline named the Athenian Riviera is located only 45 minutes away from the center of Athens.

What should I buy in Athens?

Walking the most famous shopping streets of Athens like Ermou, you’ll find that there are numerous souvenir shops offering all kinds of gifts and knick-knacks. If you go shopping, make sure to get some virgin olive oil, some ouzo, a traditional evil eye, and some homemade soaps to take with you back home.

Overall, it’s no wonder that Athens is seeing more and more visitors every year.

The city’s glorious past, numerous impressive attractions, and natural beauty, coupled with the famous Greek hospitality, make it an amazing tourist destination no matter what kind of vacation you are after.

We invite you to follow our tips and suggestions to plan the most incredible trip to Athens and we have absolutely no doubts that you will be coming back again.

A Quick Reminder:

Remember that Athens By Locals is here to guide you with planning the perfect trip to Athens and help you every step along the way. If you didn’t found what you’re looking for, or need any recommendations about your trip to Athens, feel free to  contact us  and we will do our best to help you. Please be as more detailed as possible regarding your subject so as to help you better.

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The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

Last Updated on March 4, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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Planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Athens itinerary can sometimes seem like an afterthought when mapping out a longer trip to Greece. Although some of the main images that the word Greece inspires for travelers are Athens and the Acropolis, few people spend more than a day in the capital city or outside of the port.

For most people, Greece is synonymous with the Greek islands such as Mykonos , Milos , Corfu and Santorini with vast deep blue seas, and dream-worthy sunsets. With a few days set aside to explore Athens, you’ll manage to get to know the heart of this special country, its people, and the birthplace of democracy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Athens?

It can be tough to put your finger on just how many days to spend in Athens as it’s a relatively condensed city. However, there are also plenty of things to do and areas to explore outside of the heart of Athens.

In 1 day, you’ll be able to explore the main area of the center of the city and wander around the Acropolis.

With 2 days in Athens, you’ll be able to explore the city center at a much slower pace and maybe check out another museum.

Spending 3 days exploring the sites of Athens is ideal to do the city justice and get a better feel for what it is today.

And with 4 days, you’ll have the chance to get out of the city and take a day trip to one of the nearby areas rich in ancient history as well as beauty. If you have even more time, you can also go on a day trip somewhere further afield, such as to Meteora or Delphi .

Getting To & Around Athens

Chances are you’ll most likely be arriving in the city by plane or by ferry. While there is a train station in Athens, it’s more for local commuter routes so we’ll be skipping train transport in this article. 

If you’re arriving in the city by plane, you’ll be arriving at the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. The airport is 27 km from the city center and there are a few ways of reaching it.

The metro line 3 runs directly from the airport through the center, stopping at various points throughout the city. You can reach the metro from the airport by about a 3-minute walk outside the terminal.

The journey is just under 40 minutes from the airport to the city. A special airport ticket is required, so keep this in mind while purchasing!

It is possible to take a taxi to the city from the airport. But keep in mind that if you arrive after midnight, taxi costs increase to over double what you would pay earlier in the day. You can also organise a transfer in advance here .

If you’re arriving by ferry from one of the Greek islands, you’ll be arriving at the Piraeus port. Fortunately, there is a metro stop at the port making it easy to transport you onwards to your destination in the city. You can book ferries in advance here .

The center of Athens and its sites are quite small, making it a walkable city. If you’re just spending time in the more touristy part of the city, it’s pretty easy just to walk between destinations.

Otherwise, the public transportation system is great and using it can keep your Greece trip cost lower. Buses run throughout the city during the day and night making it an efficient way to manoeuvre around the city.

The metro system has 3 lines that have points throughout the city which is one of the most ideal ways to get around Athens.

Tickets for both the metro and busses can be purchased at any metro station kiosk for 90-minute tickets once validated.

From Athens, there are also quite a few solid day trip options and although there isn’t a flourishing train system, there is a good bus system. The KTEL buses are more like charter buses connecting Greece. They tend to be on time and have good routes and frequent journeys.

If you’re hoping to go onward to the Greek islands from Athens, the Piraeus port is one of the main ports in Greece making it the perfect place to begin your trip to the islands.

2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

From eating classic Greek home cooking, mingling with the locals, and really getting to know the character and history of this city, this itinerary is full of history, fun, and delicious food. 

Day 1 – Acropolis & Ancient Athens

Greek breakfast .

The best way to begin your time in Athens is to enjoy a classic Greek breakfast. Greek breakfast tends to be coffee of any sort, (although classic Greek coffee or “freddo” iced espresso tends to take reign) and a pie. 

Hop into any fourno (bakery) and grab the most appealing pie for you. I recommend either ham and cheese pie or bougatsa (a custard pastry!)

Acropolis Museum

As we will head to the Acropolis later today on day 1 of this itinerary for Athens, there’s no better way to begin the day than by learning about this famous Ancient landmark at the Acropolis Museum.

The Acropolis Museum is home to the majority of the archaeological findings from the Acropolis and it’s truly an impressive collection of history.

The museum is located directly below the Acropolis and offers some of the most impressive views of the Acropolis from below. You can also see the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the incredible Temple of Hephaestus nearby.

The visiting hours and ticket costs are split into seasons; summer and winter. If visiting Athens in winter , the season is from 1 November – 31 March with reduced hours and ticket fees. The summer season is from 1 April – October 31 with lengthened opening hours. 

If you plan on visiting the Acropolis and numerous other Athens landmarks and museums, then it can also be worth purchasing the Athens City Pass to save a bit of cash.

Making its first appearance in the 5th-century BCE. and the star of the show, the splendor herself, is the Acropolis. Most people think that the temple on the hill in central Athens is the Acropolis when in actuality it’s the Parthenon. 

The Acropolis is the hill rising above the city that was quite common in most towns and cities in ancient Greece. You can get an incredible view of Athens here. If you’re just spending 1 day in the Greek capital, the Acropolis is a must-see during your stay. 

The Acropolis hosts the Parthenon as well as some of the other most striking pieces of ancient Greece; the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Old Temple, and the Erechtheion among others. 

Visits to the Acropolis are also divided into seasons. The summer season from April-October allows visitors between 8 AM-8 PM with the last entry at 7:30. The winter season is from November-March and closes earlier at 5:00 with the last entry at 4:30.

You can buy skip-the-line tickets here that include an audio guide. You can also get a combined ticket here for the Acropolis and many other sites in Athens.

If you’re interested in learning more during your visit, you can organise a guided tour here . It’s such a dense area with so much information and a guide or tour can really enhance the experience.

Also, keep in mind if you’re visiting during the summer months that there is no shade once you reach the top and it can become extremely warm. Either come early in the morning or later in the evening if the direct sun is something that you struggle with. Regardless of when you visit, this is no doubt one of the best things to do in Athens.

Roman Agora, Ancient Agora & Hadrian’s Library

Nearby you’ll also find a few other important pieces from Ancient Greek history and architecture. The Roman Agora, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and Hadrian’s Library (created by the Roman Emperor Hadiran) are all located near each other and are between the Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods.

It’s truly interesting wandering these areas of everyday Athenian life and imagining what life was like almost 2,800 years ago.

If you’re interested in visiting these sites as well, you can purchase a combined ticket which allows access to all of these sites.

Wander Around Plaka & Anafiotika

After your dive into Ancient Greece, a great way to wind down your first day in Athens is to stroll around the classic Athenian neighborhood of Plaka. 

Sitting beneath the Acropolis, you’ll find gift shops, clothing shops, delicious taverns, and ideal spots to have a drink and do some people-watching.

Another unique neighborhood worth spending some time in is the residential area of Anafiotika. It’s quite small and pretty tricky to find, but once you’re there you’ll feel as if you’re in a village far off on a Cycladic island. 

From the winding stairs and paths to some of the most gorgeous views, I highly recommend adding Anafiotika to your Athens itinerary. It’s difficult to find, but first, make your way to Plaka and then plug Agios Georgios church at Stratonos into your GPS. You’ll then be on your way!

Sunset at Filopappou Hill

Looking for the best spot in Athens to watch the sun go down? Head to Filopappou Park and follow the signs and crowds to make your way up the hill looking over the city. 

Here you’ll find one of the best views of the city and the perfect spot to bring a bottle of wine and good company to watch the sunset.

Alternatively, you could head to Lycabettus Hill – the top of which can be reached by funicular – where you can view the city from the highest point in Athens.

Day 2 – Central Athens

Benaki or archaeological museum.

If classical Greek sightseeing wasn’t enough for you on day 1, you’re in luck as Athens is the place to be. A few of the other best museums are the Benaki Museum and the Archaeological Museum.

The Benaki Museum is located in the center of the city near the National Garden and is home to over 100,000 artifacts from Ancient Greece.

The Archaeological Museum is located near the Victoria metro station and is known to be one of the greatest museums in the world. This museum is also the largest in Greece with important artifacts from prehistory to late antiquity.

Hours vary depending on the time of year as well as the cost of your ticket; summer season tickets are are more expensive.

Psyri & Monastiraki Neighborhoods

Lively Psyri and Monastiraki are both two central neighborhoods that can’t be missed during your Athens itinerary. With 2 days in Athens, you have the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the excitement of the city center. 

From Monastiraki station, you can wander around the markets that have a certain feel almost like Arabic markets. Then head to Ermou Street to do some shopping if you fancy. 

Afterwards head to Psyri which is full of cafes, artisanal stores, bars, and music-filled Greek taverns. Don’t forget to look around while you wander as there are some truly beautiful and interesting works of graffiti art in Psyri (among the rubbish ones).

Lunch at Lithos Tavern

As all of the walking and shopping is bound to make you hungry, it’s the perfect time to stop for some lunch. Lithos Tavern in Psyri is the perfect place to fill your classic Greek food needs and rest your feet. I recommend the Moussaka or maybe some classic Greek mixed grilled meats.

Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guard

After lunch, make your way to Syntagma Square and the Parliament Building of Greece. This is just about a 15-20 minute walk away from Psyri and many Athenians would call this the main square of the city.

At all times of the day and night, there are soldier guards standing watch on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the presidential and parliament buildings.

These soldiers wear traditional Greek uniforms inspired by what was worn during the Ottoman Period and change positions with other soldiers every hour.

During the changing of the guard, you’ll witness a uniquely coordinated and almost dance-like motion as positions are changed. It’s quite a remarkable experience to witness and a must-see.

Drink With a View at Attic Urban Rooftop

Modern-day Athens is synonymous with wonderful views as well as creative cocktail bars. A great place to enjoy a nightcap and wind down on your second day in Athens is to make your way to the Attic Urban Rooftop .

Here you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the Acropolis under the moonlight as well as a tasty drink and/or food. 

Day 3 – Explore the Food Scene, Panathenaic Stadium, National Gardens & More!

If you’re spending 3 days in Athens, you’ll have the chance to dive deeper into the food culture of the city as well as more of the unique neighborhoods the city has to offer.

Food Tour or Central Market

A food tour is a perfect way to get a better look and taste of the food scene in Athens. A guided tour with a knowledgeable local will take you to key foodie places in the city to try tasty local foods.

You’ll learn the history beyond what you taste as well as more about the history of the city. Some highly rated options include this gourmet food tour and this street food tour .

If you prefer to skip the food tour and would prefer to do something independently, I’d suggest heading to the Central Municipal Athens Market to get a taste of what food and life are like for a local Athenian. 

Panathenaic Stadium

One of the most impressive sites to visit in Athens is the Panathenaic stadium, which can be looked over by tourists due to the Acropolis!

The Panathenaic stadium is located in the Pagrati neighborhood of Athens and is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. 

The stadium was built primarily for the Panathenaic Games in 330 BCE with a capacity of over 50,000 seats. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympic games in 1896 as well as multiple sports during the games and other ceremonies. 

You can just take it in from the outside or pay an admission fee to wander around inside.

National Gardens

Whilst the city of Athens may truly be a concrete jungle, there are a few green areas available to get away and get a breath of fresh air in nature.

The National Gardens of Athens are located about an 8-minute walk away from the Panathenaic Stadium and are comprised of around 38 acres of greenery and different flora. 

Here you’ll also find a handful of ancient ruins, statues, and different memories of Greece’s past; modern and ancient. It’s free to enter the gardens and the entry gates are open every day.

Explore a Different Neighborhood

If you’re looking to get to know different parts of the city and stray away from the crowds, this is the perfect time to explore deeper. Two of my favorites are Glyfada and Exarcheia.

The neighborhood of Glyfada is likely the biggest neighborhood and residential area in the southern suburbs and by the Athenian coast. Known as the home to many ex-pats, Glyfada is bursting at the seams with restaurants, cute cafes, bars, and things to do. 

This is also the perfect place to head to if you want to spend some time at the sea; whether in the water or just by walking and taking in the Greek waters and sunset. 

Glyfada can be reached by bus but the best way to reach Glyfada is by the tram system (leaving from Syntagma Square.)

Exarcheia is most well known as one of the edgiest and most alternative areas of the city. To many Exarcheia is just referred to as the “anarchist” neighborhood of Athens but there’s a lot more to explore if you dig deeper. 

Here you’ll find crowds of students, artists, intellectuals, and all those looking to experience life and the city through more of a unique lens. There’s delicious food here, jazz bars, street art and independent local finds of all sorts.

Day 4 – Cape Sounion or Marathon

If your trip to Athens consists of 4 or more days in the city, I recommend trying your best to get out of the city to one of the many nearby towns to experience a different side of Greece. I suggest different locations depending on the time of year you visit as well as your interests.  

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is located around 48 miles south of Athens and is the southern tip of the Attic Peninsula. While the entire area is full of idyllic views and things to see, the main attraction of Cape Sounion is the Temple of Poseidon. 

The Temple of Poseidon is a temple dedicated to the god Poseidon and is an important part of ancient Greek history. The temple looks out over the vast blue seas and standing at this southern tip of the Attic region surrounded by ancient monuments makes you feel like you’re in your own version of the Odyssey . 

There’s a cafe at the monument as well as nearby restaurants if you decide to make a longer day out of it. Visiting in the cooler months is ideal as it isn’t as crowded, and make sure to stay for sunset. The views are sublime.

To reach Cape Sounion you can either rent a car and transport yourself there or take public transport. Another option is to take part in a guided tour such as this sunset tour that will pick you up from your accommodation and return you there at the end of the day. 

The public bus system outside the city is KTEL and buses from central Athens to Sounion will depart near the Victoria metro from a bus stop across from Pedion tou Areos. The journey takes around 2 hours. You can find bus timetables here . 

Marathon/Schinias 

Another great option for a day trip from Athens is to visit the Ancient town of Marathon and nearby areas. We all know a “marathon” as the 26-mile race that happens all over the world, but it was actually inspired by the ancient and epic battle of Marathon. 

This battle then led to the legend of Philippides. Philippides was the Greek messenger who supposedly ran to Athens from Marathon, hence the 26-mile race today.

The town has many things to do from the Archaeological Museum of Marathon, Marathon Lake, the Marathon Run Museum, and my favorite, Schinias Beach.

Schinias Beach is a long sandy beach on the northern side of Marathon surrounded by the sea on one side and the lush pine forest of Schinias on the other.

The water is clean and warm, the environment is friendly, and it’s one of the best places to get some forest bathing and sea bathing all in one day. 

The beaches are much cleaner and better kept than those near Athens and also incredibly cheaper to visit. There are different options for restaurants and taverns on the beach, making it a solid option for a summer day trip from Athens.

To reach Marathon and Schinias from Athens, you’ll also want to take a KTEL bus. It’s about 45 minutes away from the center of Athens and you’ll take the bus from the Pedion Areos by Viktoria Station going to Marathon and get off at Marathon Beach.

From there, you’ll walk north along the coast until reaching Schinias. Tickets can be purchased when boarding the bus.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – This centrally-located hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range visitors to Athens. They have a range of lovely rooms available and there is also a bar on site and a wonderful terrace boasting views over the city.

The Modernist Athens – Those looking for luxury in the Greek capital are sure to love this beautiful 4-star hotel. Perfectly located for exploring all Athens has to offer, they have a number of luxe, modern rooms available and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

101 Adrianou Apartments – If you’d like the privacy and convenience of your own apartment with all the benefits of staying in a hotel, then this aparthotel is an excellent choice. There are a couple of flats to choose from – some with views of the iconic columns of the Acropolis.

City Circus Athens – For those travelling to Athens on a tight budget or solo, this hostel is a great option. Offering both dorm beds and private rooms, they have a great location and excellent common areas. They organise social events, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

One of the most historic cities in the world, Athens today is a unique metropolis worth visiting before or after heading to the Greek islands. Although it may have a lot of grit, you’re bound to have an exciting visit to Athens filled with great music, sites, history, and tantalizing food.

Are you planning a trip to Athens? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

As a Greek from Athens, these are excellent recommendations. Especially the schinias day trip 😍

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16 of the best things to do in Athens

Dec 7, 2023 • 9 min read

Experience the best of Athens with our guide to the top things to do in the Greek capital © Christopher Moswitzer / Shutterstock

As the birthplace of modern Western civilization, sprawling Athens has enough neoclassical buildings to keep you busy for a week.

Go beyond the Parthenon , though, and you'll discover a more youthful side to the city with new art galleries, languid cafe culture and outdoor cinemas. The Athens of today offers way more than relics of antiquity and quick routes to the Greek Islands — though we wouldn’t cross those off the to-do list just yet.

Here are Athens' best experiences.

1. Ascend the steps of the Acropolis to the Parthenon

The greatest symbol of the glory of Ancient Greece, the Acropolis rises spectacularly in the center of Athens. In the reign of Pericles, in the 5th century BCE, the hilltop was deemed a religious sanctuary. 

Just as pilgrims of millennia past made their way to worship here, you can ascend the marble steps on the west side to find yourself dwarfed by the towering columns of the magnificent Parthenon.

Detour: Complete your experience by seeing a concert or play at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus .

2. Gaze over the city from Filopappou Hill at sunset 

The mythical battleground of Theseus and the Amazons is one of Athens' best parks, studded with small ruins connected by beautiful stone paths that are themselves a minor architectural marvel. Make time in your schedule to come here around sundown one evening to watch the lights on the Acropolis switch on and glow gold against the blue sky.

Detour:  To the north, the Hill of the Pnyx offers equally compelling views and is almost always empty.

3. Shop at Monastiraki Flea Market

On Saturdays, central Athens throngs with shoppers looking for a bargain at the huge Monastiraki Flea Market , which takes place between the Monastiraki and Thisseio neighborhoods. 

Here, traders open up their secondhand stores to flog a jumble of flea-market finds, vintage clothing and oddities ranging from vintage magazines punctuated with bold Greek lettering to mid-century furniture and strange bric-a-brac. Look hard enough, and you’ll find some buried treasure (and if not, some insight into how modern Greeks have furnished their homes for the past 60 years).

4. See the birthplace of democracy in ancient Agora 

Follow in the footsteps of Socrates and his various political and philosophical cohorts at the Agora , the heart of ancient Athens' civic life and the birthplace of democracy. In the stately Stoa of Attalos (an architectural paradigm for shopping arcades that you'll recognize across modern Athens), the Agora Museum displays unusual finds from ancient daily life. 

The Temple of Hephaistos is exquisite and very well preserved; see how many of the Labors of Hercules you can identify on the frieze.

5. Journey through history at the National Archaeological Museum

Athens' preeminent museum houses the world’s largest and finest collection of Greek antiquities. Priceless items date from the Neolithic Era (6800 BCE) to the Cycladic, Mycenaean and Classical periods. 

It's gratifying to discover iconic sculptures of Western art history here, like the bronze figure of a bearded god and the disputed hammered gold death mask of Agamemnon, as you stroll through the galleries. Other surprises await, including frescoes from Santorini upstairs. 

6. See a show at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center 

A contemporary Athenian wonder, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center , designed by Renzo Piano, is home to both the Greek National Opera and the main branch of the National Library .

Seeing a performance here will be a highlight of your trip, but there are plenty of free things to see and do as well, including meandering through the stunningly beautiful Stavros Niarchos Park . Designed to showcase Mediterranean flora, the gently sloping gardens are the perfect spot to relax and take in the views and cooling sea breezes.

7. Walk among ruins at the Temple of Olympian Zeus 

Greece's largest temple was seven centuries in the making. Or rather, what used to be Greece's largest temple – today, only a handful of its colossal columns remain, as the rest were picked apart and reused in other buildings. The temple was dedicated to Zeus and, unofficially, to the Roman emperor Hadrian, who actually finished the construction job and erected a statue of himself. 

Planning tip:  While you're here, note Hadrian's Arch, congratulating him on his achievement. And explorers can seek out a sanctuary to Pan on the far side of this site.

8. Learn the story of Greece at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture 

If you have time for only one museum, make it this one. This impeccable private collection shows the spectrum of Greece from ancient times right up through the mid-20th century. It occupies a stunning neoclassical mansion, with fine art and mundane folk objects – both equally beautiful – displayed chronologically. 

As a kind of counterpoint to the pure classicism celebrated elsewhere in the city's archaeological sites, the Benaki collection tells the story of how Greece has absorbed foreign influences and ideas to create its uniquely syncretic culture.

9. Enter ancient Athens at Kerameikos

The city's ancient necropolis is home to the Street of Tombs, where classical VIPs were interred. Many of the finest grave markers are replicas; the originals are on display at the small, absorbing on-site museum. 

The area was also the ceremonial entrance into ancient Athens, and while the gates no longer stand and the arriving road is now a paved city street, it's still an interesting place to pause and imagine the activity that would've taken place here.

10. Join in with the local coffee culture

Athenians don't wait until the weekend to head out to catch up with friends; they spend their days under the shade of orange trees nursing coffees and conversing for hours.

By day, the leafy central neighborhoods of Pangrati and Exarhia are packed with locals spilling out from kafeneia  (Greek cafes) and into the streets, philosophizing (a favorite activity of any Greek), playing backgammon on marble table tops and sipping slowly on a cuppa.

11. Admire treasures in the Acropolis Museum 

Natural light cascades through the spacious galleries of the modern Acropolis Museum , illuminating the priceless treasures that have been removed from the hill and installed here for safekeeping. 

The pinnacle of the museum is the top-floor glass atrium, where the 161m-long frieze from around the top of the Parthenon (minus the portion still held in the British Museum ) is installed at eye level, so visitors can see all the details of this masterpiece in marble, and get a truer sense of its grand scale.

12. Check out the art scene

Athens is getting increasingly well-known for its art scene. From not-for-profit galleries like CheapArt Athens to well-established commercial galleries like The Breeder  and the  Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation , and the National Museum of Contemporary Art , which opened in 2020, the city's creative side is thriving.

Add to that a flurry of international artists who have moved to the city and set up spaces like  Kypseli Print Studio  – a print screening studio that hosts workshops for people of all abilities – and  Haus N , a creative hub for new installations and works by young Greek artists, and it's easy to see the landscape changing for the better.

13. Watch the changing of the guard in Syntagma Square

In the very heart of Athens stands the rose-toned Hellenic Parliament building on Syntagma Square . Try and catch its ceremonious changing of the guard. Two guards are always in residence here, dressed in traditional Evzones costume, a tasseled fez hat, thick kilt and stockinged legs with pom-pom shoes.

In summer, the customary get-up gets so hot that these guards have to be dabbed at with tissues, as they are unable to move from their positions protecting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It’s only on the hour that they can finally break free to move in perfectly choreographed synchronicity, kicking their legs high as they march to change guards.

14. Hit the beaches of the Apollo Coast

Escaping the heat of the city is easy in Athens: just head to the beach. In the sweltering summer months, take the A1 tram to the Palaio Faliro neighborhood for a palm tree-lined promenade and a soft, sandy beach.

Further along the Apollo Coast are the more upmarket southern suburbs of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, with no shortage of luxury beach clubs should you want a full day off from sightseeing. Out of season, Vouliagmeni has a burgeoning surf scene.

Planning tip:  If you are willing to travel a little further for some beach time, head to Aegina on a  day trip .

15. Snap a shot on the winner's pedestal at the Panathenaic Stadium

With its rows of white Pentelic marble seats built into a ravine next to Ardettos Hill, this ancient-turned-modern stadium is a draw both for lovers of classical architecture and sports fans who can imagine the roar of the crowds from millennia past. A ticket gets you an audio tour, admission to a tiny exhibit on the modern Olympics (mainly eye-candy games posters) and the opportunity to take your photo on a winners' pedestal.

The stadium – built in the 4th century BCE and restored for the first modern Olympic games in 1896 – was first used as a venue for the Panathenaic athletic contests. It's said that at Hadrian's inauguration in CE 120, a thousand wild animals were sacrificed in the arena. Later, the seats were rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus.

16. Visit the miraculous Church of Agios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris

At the foot of Filopappou Hill, this 16th-century church may not be the oldest in Athens, but it is certainly one of the loveliest, with a heavy timber roof, marble floors and the permanent scent of incense. A great 1732 fresco of St Dimitrios, astride his horse in a pose copied from ancient images of Alexander the Great, adorns the interior.

The churchyard, with its wooden gate and bells, conjures Japan – a touch by modernist architect Dimitris Pikionis, who also applied his precise style to the restoration of the back exterior wall, a delightful piece of stonework. In 1648, the church was the site of a reported miracle. The Turks, ensconced on the Acropolis, prepared to fire a cannon on worshippers gathered in the church, but the gunner was killed by lightning, saving the congregation, hence its name, Loumbardiaris ("of the cannon").

This article was first published Mar 10, 2020 and updated Dec 7, 2023.

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Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Athens 3 Day Itinerary For First Time Visitors

With 3 days in Athens, you can see all the main sites, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, and get a good experience of the Greek capital.  

What to do in Athens in 3 days

Spending three days in Athens is the ideal amount of time to see the important places of interest, such as the Acropolis, Plaka, Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus and more. Knowing what to see is half the battle, knowing what order to see everything in is a whole different story!

This is why I’ve written this guide on what to do in Athens in 3 days. I was born and raised in Athens, and I love my city with its many different faces. Athens has so much to offer, which is why many people return.

As you probably know, Athens is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its most iconic landmark is the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 5th century BC. There are many more archaeological sites, and dozens of museums.

Apart from that, the Greek capital is a vibrant city, with almost 4 million inhabitants. There are busy markets, vibrant shopping areas, and dozens of local places and hidden gems. From its buzzing center to its suburbs on the coast, Athens a wonderful place to explore.

Here are my suggestions on what to do in Athens in 3 days. As there is no single Athens vacation itinerary that will fit everyone’s taste, I have included a few different ideas for everyone. You’ll also find some useful insights on where to eat and what to avoid in three days in Athens Greece.

Explore the Athens city center

The historic Athens city center is fairly compact. The main places of interest are Syntagma Square , Acropolis, Plaka , Monastiraki, Psiri , Thissio, and the areas in between. Any of these areas is great to base yourself and do your sightseeing.

There are a few pedestrianized roads and dozens of side streets and narrow alleyways, often making navigation a challenge.

Much of the historic center is only accessible on foot. To travel between the different neighbourhoods you can walk, use the Athens metro  or take a taxi.

Central Athens is roughly a 40-50 minute drive from the Athens international airport, or more, depending on traffic. The Athens airport metro takes about 45 minutes, while the airport bus can take an hour or longer.

Main attractions and highlights in Athens Greece

Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, has no less than  seven ancient sites! 

The most famous sites are the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora . You can also visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the ancient cemetery in Kerameikos, the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library and Aristotle’s Lyceum.

There is a combined ticket , which allows entrance to all of them. If you only want to visit one or two sites, it will work out cheaper to get single entrance tickets.

Apart from the historical sites, Athens has dozens of  museums . Archaeology and history fans will quickly realize that 3 days in Athens Greece are nowhere near enough! There are also several  art galleries  and  art museums  all around the entire city.

Athens, however, has a lot more to see apart from these attractions. The quaint changing of the Guards, our cutting edge street art, the beautiful neoclassical buildings and the lively Athens markets are all pieces of our colorful city’s puzzle, and they are here for you to discover.

Day 1 – Ancient wonders of Athens

On Day 1 of your Athens itinerary, start by exploring the city on foot. Walk on the beautiful pedestrianized streets and visit a few of our famous sites.

You can also visit Plaka, the oldest and best known neighbourhood in Athens. There’s a touristy side to it, but it’s lovely!

Temple of Zeus and Areopagitou street

Your starting point for the day is the massive Temple of Olympian Zeus , close to the Acropolis metro station. Only 16 of the original 104 columns remain, but they are quite something! You can also spot the Acropolis from right inside the site.

If you are planning to visit three archaeological sites or more, this is a great place to buy the combined ticket in person. Queues here are much shorter than at the Acropolis or the Ancient Agora of Athens.

Upon leaving the temple, pass by the massive  Hadrian’s Arch , built in honour of the Roman emperor Hadrian. Cross the busy Amalias Avenue, and you will find yourselves right on  Dionysiou Areopagitou  street.

In my opinion, this is one of the most picturesque streets in Athens. It was pedestrianized just before the 2004 Olympic Games and it passes right through the historic centre.

As you are walking on this ancient road, you will literally be able to see  ancient Athens for free .

Climb up the Acropolis Hill

As you are on Areopagitou street, heading towards Thissio metro station, you will soon see the entrance to the  Acropolis . The famous archaeological site is actually a large citadel, up on a hill.

There are many temples and ruins, of which the most famous is the Parthenon. It was dedicated to Goddess Athena, one of the  twelve Olympian Gods  and the protectress of the city. Here is a cool myth explaining  how Athens took its name . There’s also a smaller temple, dedicated to Athena Nike.

After you’ve explored the ancient ruins, climb up to the area with the massive  Greek flag . You will get unique views of the concrete jungle below!

The famous site gets very busy at certain times of the day, especially during peak season when cruise boats arrive in the morning. Allow at least an hour and a half to explore the ancient site fully, or more if there are crowds.

Have a look at this related article about overtourism in Athens .

The Acropolis is open from 8 am to 8 pm in summer, and to 5 pm in winter. Closing times vary during March-April and September-October, so check in advance.

Last tip: Many visitors underestimate the summer heat! If you are visiting in summer, make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen and some water. If it’s a particularly hot day, you can change the itinerary around, and visit in the evening. Here are a few more travel tips on  how to stay cool in the summer in Athens . 

Explore the Acropolis Museum

Back on Areopagitou street, you will immediately see the popular  Acropolis museum  on your left. Here, you can see several artefacts that have been discovered around the Acropolis.

Some of the most fascinating statues in the museum are the five Caryatids. They were originally six – the sixth one is currently at the British Museum.

Apart from the galleries, there is an excavated area just underneath the museum, where you can see parts of the ancient city.

The café on the second floor is a great spot to have a break from all the walking and climbing, and you will enjoy a fantastic view of the Acropolis. The museum’s opening hours vary by season and day of the week, so check their  website  for the latest information.

I strongly recommend that you take a guided tour for the Acropolis and the Museum, which will make Ancient Greece come alive and will significantly add to your experience. I’ve taken a few tours over the years, and there’s always something new to learn!

Otherwise, please at least try to brush up on your ancient Greek history before you visit!

Best places to visit in Athens for Acropolis views

Once you are back on Areopagitou street, continue walking towards Thissio metro. You will soon see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus , also known as  Herodion ancient theater  to your right, and  Filopappou Hill  to your left.

Herodion theatre is only open during evening performances in spring, summer and autumn. You can see the theatre’s interior when you are up on the Acropolis.

Filopappou Hill is a large green space where you can climb for some great views of the city. 

On top of the hill, you will also find the Filopappos tomb monument. This is dedicated to the Syrian Prince Filopappos, an honorary citizen of Athens who died in 116AD.

Another popular viewing point is  Mars Hill , or  Areios Pagos , the court of Justice in Ancient Greece. It was also the spot that Apostle Paul chose to talk about Christianity in 51 AD.

Areios Pagos offers some of the best views of the Acropolis, and is popular with first timers, returning visitors and locals.

Back on the pedestrianized street, you will find several cafés, snack bars and all-day restaurants where you can have a much-needed break.

Some popular suggestions in the area include  Thissio View  and  Athinaion Politeia . Alternatively, you can stop at one of the restaurants tucked away in the backstreets, such as Merceri , To Kousoulo  or To Kafeneio tou Rizou .

Kerameikos ancient cemetery 

After your break, continue walking towards Thissio metro. If you are in the mood for another ancient site, turn left towards  Kerameikos ancient cemetery .

Kerameikos was very important in ancient times. The area was originally where the potters and artisans lived, and it later became the cemetery of Athens. The small museum hosts several artefacts related to funerary practices.

Even though the site is big, you could probably walk around in about an hour. However, you can easily spend longer. The site is open from 8 am to 8 pm in summer, and closes at 5 pm in winter.

After Kerameikos, it’s time to stroll around the lovely, quaint neighbourhoods called  Plaka  and  Anafiotika .

Plaka and Anafiotika

Walk up Ermou and Adrianou streets, turn right on Vrisakiou or Areos street, and head towards Tripodon. You’ve now reached the famous locale called Plaka.

Plaka is a small neighbourhood with lots of all-day cafés, tavernas, restaurants and bars.

It’s also full of charming neoclassical buildings, some nice street art and an assortment of tourist shops where you can buy tasteful and not-so-tasteful Greek souvenirs .

You can easily spend a few hours here, or even perhaps climb up to the quaint Anafiotika  area before dark. This is a tiny neighborhood that looks like a Greek island!

Then you can have some nice Greek food in one the many tavernas. I like  Scholarchio and Kafeneio , but there are many in the area to choose from.

Day 1 Athens – Overview

Here is an overview of your first day in Athens, which begins at Acropolis metro, and ends in Plaka:

• The Temple of Zeus
• The Acropolis
• The Acropolis Museum
• Filopappou Hill
• Kerameikos ancient cemetery

While this is easily doable in one day in Athens, some people might find it a little tiring. It’s best to avoid this itinerary if you are jetlagged!

If you are visiting in winter, you will probably run out of time to visit Kerameikos. It’s best to check out all the other must sees in Athens without feeling rushed, and perhaps return to visit Kerameikos on Day 2 or 3.

Day 2 – Experience the local markets in modern Athens

On your second day, you will explore more ancient sites, but also have a taste of the local life! Visit markets, commercial streets and hidden areas where Athenians hang out.

Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens

Start your day with a visit to the  Ancient Agora , which is located close to Monastiraki square. The Agora once was the social, financial and commercial heart of the city. In my opinion, it’s one of the most fascinating spots in central Athens.

Note: This photo was taken in January. You will not need a coat in the summer – more like shorts and a T-Shirt! Here’s what to pack for Greece .

The Ancient Agora is full of ancient ruins, including the temple of Hephaestus, the best preserved temple in Greece. Go inside the Byzantine church of Holy Apostles, to check the frescoes.

I find the museum in the Ancient Agora fascinating. Take your time to read the informative signs, and you can learn a lot about the Ancient Greeks.

Allow a couple of hours for the Agora and the museum, as there is a fair amount of walking. Make sure you take in the beautiful views of our city!

Here is my complete  visitor’s guide to the Ancient Agora .

Athens markets in Monastiraki

Once you are out of the Agora, check out the  flea market in Monastiraki.  This is located on Ifestou street and the surrounding alleyways.

Although there’s a touristy side to it, you will also see second-hand bookstores, antique shops etc. If you are in Athens on a Sunday , check out the bigger antiques market, which begins very early in the day.

For a quick break, you can go up the 360 Rooftop Café. They offer drinks and snacks with an unbeatable view of (guess what?) the Acropolis!

Athens central food market 

And now, it’s time to experience the everyday life in Athens, and visit the  Varvakios central food market .

There are different sections for meat, fish, fruit and veg and several other products. You can visit just to have a look, but also to buy any Greek products to bring back home.

Note that the stalls start closing at around 15.00, and the Central market is closed on Sundays. Here’s everything you need to know about the  Varvakios central food market .

Or you can always take an Athens food tour , where you will learn more about all the delicious Greek dishes and Greek cuisine!

Stroll around the quaint Psiri neighborhood

Once you’ve visited the market, it’s time for lunch. While the notorious  Diporto   underground taverna is an interesting place to visit, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. You can try  Klimataria , on Theatrou square, which has kept its authentic character and offers dishes to match.

One of my favourite restaurants in Athens is  Mavros Gatos  on Navarchou Apostoli street, in Psiri area. They generally open around 13.00-13.30, so you will be just on time for small Greek dishes!

If you were thinking fish,  Atlantikos   on Avliton street is another great spot.

Apart from great lunch spots, Psiri area has some cool  street art . Wander around and see how many beautiful works you can discover!

Shopping on Ermou street 

After lunch, walk up the busy, pedestrianized  Ermou street , heading towards Syntagma Square.

In Ancient Greece mythology, Ermis / Hermes was the God of commerce (and not only). Τhis street, named after him, is one of the most commercial streets in Athens. You can find international chain shops, but also local stores selling mostly clothes, shoes and homeware.

Right in the middle of Ermou, you will see  Kapnikarea Byzantine church , dating from the 11th century. In the 19th century, when Ermou street was being designed, the small Christian church was nearly demolished.

Fortunately, its historical significance was taken into account, and it was preserved and restored instead. If it’s open, go inside and check the frescoes, designed by the prominent Greek artist Fotis Kontoglou.

The side streets and alleys around Ermou street are also great for bargain shopping. Head here if you are interested in fabrics, beads, jewellery or crafts materials. You will also discover dozens of cool all-day cafés, more street art and many street vendors and buskers.

Here’s a complete guide on the best shopping areas in Athens .

Syntagma square and the Changing of the Guards

Head up Ermou, and you will arrive at  Syntagma (Constitution) square , right in the centre of Athens.

The magnificent building that you will see on the opposite side of the square is the Greek Parliament. After the modern Greek state was first established, it was the Palace of King Otto.

In 1843, Athenians had a big demonstration here, asking for a constitution.

Right outside the Parliament building, you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the  Changing of the Guards . This happens every hour, on the hour, day and night, rain or snow! For more information, read my article about the  Evzones .

You can also visit the adjacent National Gardens, a lovely green space, and take a break from all the walking. Here is some more information: National Gardens in Athens .

If your three days in Athens include a Sunday, you could consider checking out the Ceremonial Changing of the Guards. This happens at 11 am every Sunday – just be there earlier to secure a viewing spot.

Explore Lycabettus Hill and Kolonaki area

Unless you’ve spent a very long time shopping, there will be plenty of time to go up  Lycabettus Hill . It’s possible to hike up, however you might prefer to take a taxi, or perhaps the cable car. The sunset views from up the hill are pretty cool!

Here’s more information about  Mount Lycabettus , including how to get there.

Afterwards, head down to  Kolonaki , one of the most upmarket areas in downtown Athens. You can go to one of the numerous restaurants and bars to have a meal or a drink, and watch the people go by.

One of the most popular streets is the pedestrianized Tsakalof street, which is full of all-day cafés / bars. As an example, Da Capo has been an iconic cafe in Athens for several decades.

Day 2 Athens – Overview

Just to summarize, this is a perfect itinerary for your second day in Athens:

• Ancient Agora
• Monastiraki flea market
• Varvakios food market
• Ermou street
• Syntagma Square
• The Parliament
• Changing of the Guards
• National Garden

While this might sound like a lot to do in one day, the actual distances aren’t too long. Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes to help you walk on the cobbled streets and enjoy walking around Athens!

Day 3 – More activities in Athens

If you have booked to stay 3 nights in Athens, you still have a whole day to explore. On day three in Athens, you can decide if you are interested in any of the other museums and attractions in the city centre.

Alternatively, you can take a half day tour to Cape Sounion, and see the Athens Riviera and the temple of Poseidon.

The National Archaeological Museum

People who have a specific interest in ancient history, Greek culture and ancient Greek art should definitely include the National Archaeological Museum  in a 3 day Athens itinerary.

This is the largest museum in Greece, and it will give you a pretty good idea of Greece’s long and complex history. In fact, if you only want to visit one museum in Athens, I suggest that you visit this one.

It takes about four hours to see all the collections properly! I know this sounds like a very long time, but you will need it if you actually want to read about the exhibits. There is also a quiet café downstairs where you can take a break if you want.

The museum closes at 8 pm in summer, and at 4 pm in winter, and you can check their  website  for more information.

The National Archaeological museum is right next to an infamous area of Athens called Exarchia . 

Stroll around the infamous Exarchia area

Ask ten people what they think about Exarchia in Athens, and you will get ten different answers. Cool, lively, authentic, gritty, shabby, dirty, dark, these are all words I’ve heard people use to describe Exarchia.

Indeed, some people might find this area slightly intimidating, mostly due to the amount of graffiti.

Yet, this is a vibrant area of the city, and is particularly popular with the younger crowd. It’s a perfect neighbourhood to observe everyday life in Athens.

Apart from the many neoclassical buildings and cool street art, you will find plenty of cafés and all-day hangouts. For one of the best meals in central Athens, head to Oxo Nou  on Emmanouil Benaki. They have a huge menu, large portions, amazing dishes and lots of Cretan  raki  on the house.

Athens Trilogy – Beautiful neoclassical buildings

After leaving Exarchia, stroll by Panepistimio metro, to see the so-called  Trilogy of Athens .

These are three of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in Athens. From left to right, they are the National Library of Greece, the University and the Academy of Athens.

These magnificent buildings were constructed in the 19th century, after the designs of the Danish architects Hans Christian Hansen and Theophil Hansen. Sadly, at the moment they are not open to visitors – hopefully one day!

Explore the art galleries and free museums

If history is not your thing, don’t worry. Athens has many more attractions apart from the famous sites and museums. Anyone who loves art will be happy to know that there are several art museums in Athens. 

Here is a list of twenty of the  best museums in Athens for history, culture, modern and contemporary art. It includes the Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, the National Gallery, and many more.

And if you are looking for free activities, check out my article on free museums and galleries in Athens . You may be surprised – and this is why 3 days in Athens are nowhere near enough!

See the Panathenaic Stadium

Another fascinating attraction is the  Panathenaic Stadium . This massive stadium was originally built in 329 BC to host athletic events, starting with the Great Panathinaia.

The stadium continued to be in use during Roman times, but fell into disuse when Christianity prevailed. Many of the materials used for its construction were removed to be used elsewhere.

Towards the end of the 19th century, certain people decided to revive the Olympic Games. For this purpose, the Panathenaic Stadium was reconstructed, and was home to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Nowadays the stadium hosts several events from time to time, but is also open to visitors. Allow at least an hour and a half to visit the impressive stadium and the small museum.

Visit the temple of Poseidon at Sounion

If you want to see what the coastal suburbs of Athens look like, you can take a half-day Athens trip to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion . The temple is a popular sunset spot, as it’s right at the edge of Attica peninsula.

People who are happy to hire a rental car can easily combine a visit to the temple with a few hours on the beach. Most areas on the so-called Athens Riviera are suitable for swimming. 

This is a good option for people planning a weekend in Athens Greece, as this half-day trip can give you an idea of the coastline.

Depending on traffic, this activity should take you about 4.5-5 hours if you are leaving from central Athens. Note that on summer weekends there will generally be a lot of traffic, so plan your visit on a weekday if you can.

Take a walking tour

If you don’t feel like visiting any other tourist attractions, you could consider taking an Athens private walking tour with a local .

While you can see a lot of our city on your own, a local can always explain all its little secrets. Plus, you will have the opportunity to experience the everyday life in Athens and Greece!

Day 3 Athens – Overview

I have deliberately left day 3 with no suggested itinerary. You may choose to do any of these activities, or totally ignore them and do your own thing! After all, this is your own holiday, and you should do what you feel like doing.

How many days to spend in Athens

If you are visiting Greece for the first time, my suggestion is to spend at least 3 days in Athens. This way you can explore our famous ancient monuments, visit a couple of museums, and enjoy local life without feeling too rushed.

In fact, I think that three days in Athens is the absolute minimum that you need in order to scratch the surface. You can easily spend a week in Athens and never get tired of it!

FAQs about Athens

Here are a few questions that people who visit Athens often ask:

Is 3 days enough for Athens?

3 days is enough to see the main attractions of Athens. You’ll also get a general idea of what local life is like. 

What are some of the best places to visit in Athens?

Athens is famous for its ancient history. Some of the top attractions include the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Olympian Zeus. Other places to visit include the various neighborhoods, like Plaka, Anafiotika and Psiri, and the colourful markets around Monastiraki.

Is Athens safe?

Overall, Athens is a very safe city, though some areas might feel unsafe at first. With that said, always be mindful of your valuables, especially if you are in crowded places and the Athens metro.

What can you do in Greece in 3 days?

It depends on what you want out of your holiday. Often, a 3 days in Greece itinerary includes a day or two in Athens, plus a day trip to one of the Greek islands.

Which Greek islands should I visit?

Greece has over 100 inhabited islands, so choosing between them can be a tough choice. Santorini and Mykonos are two of the most popular and crowded islands, but there are dozens more to choose from.

Here is a 7-day itinerary for Athens, Mykonos and Santorini .

How can I get from Athens to the Greek islands?

Some Greek islands, like  Santorini ,  Mykonos  or  Milos , have airports. If you decide to fly there from the Athens airport, it’s best to book your flight as early as possible, as last-minute prices tend to be very high.

I personally prefer to travel to the islands on ferries. I use a search engine called Ferryscanner to check ferry itineraries and book my ferry tickets. These days you usually get your tickets in your email, so you don’t need to queue at the port to collect them.

Athens Itinerary 3 Days

I hope that the above itineraries and tips have helped you decide what to see during your trip to Athens in 3 days. If there’s anything else that you’d like to know about Athens, leave a comment right below!

Here are a few more articles in my Athens travel blog you might enjoy:

• How to get around Athens
• The best time to visit Athens and Greece
• Islands near Athens
• Day trips from Athens
• How to get from Athens to Thessaloniki by train
• How to book a train ticket in Greece
• Driving in Greece
• 2 days in Athens itinerary – if you are pushed for time!

Hi! I am Vanessa! I’ve been calling Athens home for over 40 years, and I’m not tired of it yet. While it’s far from a perfect city, I find it absolutely fascinating, as it has so many different faces. You could easily stay in Athens for a week and not get bored! For more local advice on how to plan a trip to Athens, feel free to contact me. Also, follow my FB page , where I post information and news about Athens and Greece.

6 thoughts on “Athens 3 Day Itinerary For First Time Visitors”

Hello Vanessa! Thank you for the thorough explanation of what one can do in 3 days in Athens. I plan to go with my girlfriend in June, so this article will be my go-to one, but I will also check out your other posts, as I find them extremely useful for any tourist coming to Athens. Greetings from Poland!

Thank you so much!! Please feel free to ask any questions!

Hi! Thank you for this! We are going for about 2.5 days LOL, arriving in the afternoon on a Sunday and leaving mid afternoon on a Wednesday. Our 16-year-old daughter has been waiting to get to Athens FOREVER. She wants to see the old sites for sure so this has been a big help. Any other suggestions you have for visiting in November or with teenagers? I know its a quick trip and we want to see the big stuff most of all. Thanks again for all this info. 🙂 Greatly appreciated.

Thank you! Have a look at Psiri area , she will love it, and make sure you pass by the Little Kook cafe which has become very famous – I don’t like their desserts personally, but the place is worth having a look at. I love the Museum of Illusions too, which is something different, and you can definitely go to the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology !

Hi Vanessa, which is the best airline to use to get to Corfu from Athens please . Thanks from Western Australia

Hi! I would personally choose whichever fits my schedule (and luggage) best! I’ve used both Aegean / Olympic Airlines (they are the same company) and Sky Express and they are both fine, Sky tends to allow for more luggage – just be very careful with your fare as not all of them allow the same amount of luggage. Here are a few things to do in Corfu ! Enjoy your time!

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Athens   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Athens offers an endless number of experiences and attractions, from its ancient monuments and museums to medieval churches and high-end boutiques. You could easily spend several weeks wandering the city and exploring its best-preserved artifacts and

• All Things To Do

Acropolis Acropolis

While there are many more acropoleis (the plural of "acropolis") in Greece, it's this one in central Athens that garners the most attention. In fact, it's routinely referred to simply as " The Acropolis." The site is an elevated, flat-topped rock with an assortment of monuments and ruins built throughout the 5th century BC , including the Parthenon , the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion .

Travelers say the hike to the Acropolis is just as memorable as the sites it holds. If you're going to try it, many suggest beginning your trek in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak temperatures and crowds. For the best photos and views, arrive shortly before sunset. Visitors with mobility issues will have access to an elevator; however, some travelers noticed others struggling to move wheelchairs around the property, which lacks ramps and has gravel pathways, so allow extra time when using a wheelchair.

Acropolis Museum Acropolis Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once you're inside the Acropolis Museum, look for the famous caryatids – a collection of marble statues that were replaced by copies on the Erechtheion for the purpose of their preservation. – Holly D. Johnson

As its name suggests, the Acropolis Museum – which resides in central Athens' Makrigianni district just below the ancient site itself – houses various archaeological findings from the Acropolis. Key exhibits include a relief of Athena Nike, several carved statues from Erechtheion , the head of a statue of Alexander the Great and a gallery with various Parthenon artifacts.

Parthenon Parthenon

U.S. News Insider Tip : If you're visiting during the scorching summer months, get up early and head to the base of the Acropolis before 8 a.m. Summer temperatures average in the high 80s and 90s, and the long lines can leave you standing in the heat for hours.  – Holly D. Johnson

An impressive example of ancient Greek architecture, the Parthenon is a cultural landmark like no other.

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Plaka Plaka free

The beautiful, historical neighborhood of Plaka, located under the Acropolis , is largely residential. Still, its assortment of restaurants and cafes keep it swarming with tourists each summer. You can also shop, especially if you're looking to bring home some gold or silver jewelry. 

Motor vehicles are not permitted on this neighborhood's winding streets, so make sure you have a street map (or access to maps on your phone) and a comfortable pair of shoes. Visitors say the Plaka offers a charming atmosphere and plenty of great shops for both souvenirs and one-of-a-kind finds. If you'd rather sip a drink once the sun goes down, travelers suggest visiting one (or several) of the area's vibrant clubs or bars. 

National Archaeological Museum National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum contains some of the most revered artifacts of Greece, dating back to 5000 B.C., and is considered one of the world's best museums for ancient Greek art. For many recent travelers, this museum was the highlight of their trip.

Prior visitors said this museum is well laid out and offers informative and interesting displays. A few reviewers reported feeling overwhelmed by all of the artifacts on display, and recommended mapping out which exhibits you'd like to see ahead of time to maximize your visit. For many, seeing Agamemnon's gold death mask was a must. Several travelers recommend breaking up your visit with a stop at the on-site cafe. 

Temple of Hephaestus Temple of Hephaestus

One of central Athens' best preserved ruins is the Temple of Hephaestus. Nestled within Ancient Agora , this site was built between 460 and 420 B.C. and once served as a Christian church. Eventually, the building was transformed into an archaeological museum before undergoing excavations in 1930 and later opening to tourists.

According to prior travelers, the Temple of Hephaestus is "impressive" and "definitely worth a visit." In fact, some felt this ruin deserved more accolades than the Parthenon , despite its smaller size. Like most sights found in Ancient Agora and the Acropolis , the Temple of Hephaestus can only be viewed from the outside, so time your visit early in the morning to take in everything while temperatures are cooler. Also, consider visiting Ancient Agora first if you plan on seeing its attractions and those at the Acropolis within the same day. The Temple of Hephaestus and other Ancient Agora ruins are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 to 8 p.m., although hours vary by season

Ancient Agora Ancient Agora

The agoras of the ancient Greek city-states were open areas for people to assemble for everything from political gatherings to public debates. Ancient Agora is the most popular of its kind, thanks in part to its historical significance. Socrates used to lecture here, and it was also here that Saint Paul sought out converts for the then-fledgling religion known as Christianity.

Recent travelers, especially history buffs, loved visiting Ancient Agora. Though some wished the site offered more written information about its ruins, many felt the locale had a better atmosphere (and fewer crowds) than the adjacent Acropolis . Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes or allot extra time for moving around if you use a wheelchair since Ancient Agora's pathways are covered in gravel. Others raved about the views of the Acropolis that can be seen here, but warned that this site is a magnet for pickpockets.

Erechtheion Erechtheion

Located just north of the Parthenon high above the city within the Acropolis complex, the Erechtheion was constructed between 421 and 406 B.C. as a place for Athenians to worship Erechtheus, the mythical king of Athens, and various Greek gods. Though smaller than the Parthenon, this structure features a frieze made of Eleusinian gray stone, multiple sculptures (known as caryatids) and other unique details, making it one of the Acropolis' most eye-catching buildings.

This sight's attention to detail makes it one of Athens' most popular ruins to visit. Sightseers love the caryatids found on the south side of the building, adding that these copies – five of the six original statues are on display in the Acropolis Museum , while the sixth resides in London's British Museum – are so accurate that it's hard to tell they're replicas. Another plus: the stunning city vistas.

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Benaki Museum Benaki Museum

According to some recent travelers, this is the best museum in Athens. The Benaki Museum focuses on Greek art, from prehistory to the modern age. Its campus features several contemporary and historic buildings that house everything from Islamic art to art studios affiliated with Yannis Pappas and Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika, two well-known Greek artists. Facilities like restrooms, restaurants, gift shops and a library are available as well.

Art enthusiasts love visiting this museum's collections and seeing a range of Greek cultural exhibits and historical artifacts all in one place. Note that Thursdays offer free admission after 6 p.m. for permanent exhibits, so this is a good time to visit if you have a Thursday evening in Athens with time to spare. Free admissions are also offered at the Yannis Pappas Studio and the MENTIS workshop, where visitors can see how costumes, military uniforms and more were made for centuries. The only negative, for some, is the museum's abundance of exhibits, which tend to be repetitive at times and are tough to squeeze into one visit.

Anafiotika Anafiotika

Anafiotika is another trendy neighborhood in Athens that is nestled just beside the Plaka , and it is known for its car-free winding streets and alleys as well as its adorable homes and churches. The area is small, yet not difficult to find due to its location just next to the Acropolis . You can easily spend several hours here enjoying coffee or a cocktail, or shopping at one of the local boutiques.

Visitors who have been to Anafiotika say it's one of their favorite parts of the city, and that it's beautiful and even romantic for some. Consider getting up early to capture some stunning photos of Anafiotika with the Acropolis towering in the background and few other travelers to interfere with your shots.

Herod Atticus Odeon Herod Atticus Odeon

Situated on the south slope of the Acropolis , the Herod Atticus Odeon was named after Tiberius Claudius Herod Atticus, a wealthy Athenian who sponsored the building of this ancient outdoor auditorium between A.D. 160 and 174. Historically, the venue hosted a variety of music festivals, but today, the locale serves as the site for many theater, music and art festivals, including the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, an annual arts showcase.

Though some previous visitors said this attraction isn't as impressive as others found in the Acropolis complex, many highly recommended attending one of the venue's summer performances. If you do attend a show here, plan on wearing comfortable walking shoes , since steps at the Herod Atticus Odeon are steep. You can also visit during nonevent days, so long as you purchase an Acropolis ticket, which is generally cheaper than event tickets at 20 to 30 euros (around $22 to $32.50) per person.

Monastiraki Monastiraki free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Monastiraki is an exceptional place to enjoy an incredible meal or shop for souvenirs at a great price. You'll also find lower pricing for vacation rentals and hotels in Monastiraki than you will in the Plaka . – Holly D. Johnson

Monastiraki is a popular neighborhood within the ancient city of Athens similar to the Plaka, yet it's intensely grittier and a better representation of the local vibe than more touristy areas of town. Monastiraki is the place you'll find locals selling their wares on the street, with graffiti and street art covering nearly every building in sight. Delicious eats and drinks are found in this areas of Athens, and at a good price. For example, you can find the best of Greek cuisine here, from moussaka to souvlaki and gyros. The central gathering area in Monastiraki is Monastiraki Square, which is a lively and buzzing city square filled with small shops, food stands and locals enjoying the weather. This square is also a great place to begin walking Ermou Street, which is one of the city's biggest shopping streets when it comes to clothing, jewelry and souvenirs to take home. 

Museum of Cycladic Art Museum of Cycladic Art

Founded in 1986 as a place to display Aegean and Cypriot artifacts owned by Nikolaos and Aikaterini (Dolly) Goulandris, two Athenians interested in preserving Greek culture, the Museum of Cycladic Art features various sculptures, jewelry, pottery and weapons. Permanent collections are housed in the Main Building, while temporary exhibits are showcased at the adjacent Stathatos Mansion.

History buffs and art lovers rave about the high-quality exhibits offered inside this small museum. What's more, all of the displays include English translations, making it easy for Americans to learn about each item. This attraction is also popular with families, thanks in part to its complimentary admissions for children 17 and younger, as well as its kid-friendly activities. Additionally, the museum offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, a gift shop and a cafe, which serves tasty homemade pastries, brunch and light meals and snacks.

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Panathenaic Stadium Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium held the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and it was built on the site of a former stadium used for the Panathenaic games that dates back to 566 B.C. The unique marble stadium is in great condition and draws in tourists from around the world. What's more, it still hosts a range of sporting events and competitions to this day. 

Visitors to the stadium love its historical significance, but this seems especially true among those who love the Olympics or watch the games every few years. Many also agree the entry fee is reasonable for all you can see and learn in a few hours. Note, however, that you can get decent photos and a look at the stadium from outside the gates without actually paying to go inside.

Athens Bus Tours Athens Bus Tours

Like other major cities in Europe, Athens has its share of bus tours. Options include hop-on, hop-off bus tours with open air seating on an upper deck and inside seating below, but you can also book bus tours that last a half day or full day. While a range of companies offer their own unique bus tours and sightseeing options, some of the most popular providers include City Sightseeing , Key Tours and Sights of Athens .

Reviews for Athens bus tours vary by company, but many travelers agree that bus tours in general offer an affordable and convenient way to see the city. Note that many hop-on, hop-off bus tours cost less than 20 euros (about $21) per ticket, yet they give you the chance to see all around Athens without having to walk on foot, and you can get off and on as you please. Some hop-on, hop-off bus tours even offer free Wi-Fi on board. Cruise travelers in particular find the bus tours an efficient way to see the city’s top sights in a short amount of time. Booking a bus tour can also be an efficient way to see archaeological sites outside of Athens, such as Delphi.

Athens National Garden Athens National Garden free

The National Garden of Athens is a beautiful natural garden that sits south of the Benaki Museum and east of the Acropolis . The garden is brimming with flowers, trees, trellises, several lakes and natural vegetation, and it also offers something the city center of Athens often lacks – some natural shade and protection to keep you out of the sun and heat.

The garden is free to visit and open from sunrise to sunset, and you can enter and exit from each side depending on the direction you're headed (there are seven entrances in total). You'll also find public restrooms, a conservatory, a children’s library and a small cafe on-site, although past visitors have said the cafe is overpriced. 

Athens Food Tours Athens Food Tours

People from all over the world love Greek cuisine, and it's easy to see why. From local favorites like saganaki (fried and melted cheese) to fresh Greek salads, gyros and baklava (a dessert made with pastry and honey), there's no shortage of delicious foods to try throughout the country.

Whether you're a foodie or not, you may want to consider booking a Greek food tour to try out all the local favorites with the help of an expert guide. Companies that offer four tours in Athens vary widely, but popular options include Food Around Athens , Greekality , Truevoyagers and Athens Walking Tours . Most tours do require walking and a certain level of physical fitness since you're going from place to place to try new food and drink, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be ready to get your steps in.

Temple of Olympian Zeus Temple of Olympian Zeus

Located near the Acropolis and the Benaki Museum , the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a tall and impressive marble structure that dates back to the 6th century B.C. The site has a long and storied history, as it was dedicated to Zeus, the patriarch of all Greek gods and the ruler of Mount Olympus. While only 15 of the original 104 columns of the temple are still standing, this landmark is one of the most common associated with Athens and worth a look and a few photos.

Visitors to the Temple of Olympian Zeus seem to agree the site is worth a stop even if there's not a lot to see. That said, ongoing restoration work and scaffolding could damper the experience, along with the potential for heat and crowds during a good part of the year. Several reviewers recommended reading up on the site prior to your visit as there isn’t much information on display here.

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Is Athens Worth Visiting? 29 Great Reasons to Visit Athens

Wondering, is Athens worth visiting? Great, you’re in the right place!

The capital of Greece is a city steeped in history and culture, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

So why should you visit Athens? Because it’s an outstanding city! From its archaeological sites to its vibrant nightlife, this article delves into 29 reasons to visit Athens and why it should be at the top of your Europe travel bucket list.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning after many years away, this ancient city will not disappoint. Get ready to explore everything this captivating Greek capital has to offer!

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Is Athens Worth Visiting?

If you’re wondering what to visit in Athens, this section gives you a quick glance at some of the most popular attractions the city has to offer.

Whether you’re planning a quick stopover before onward travel, or a short city break, you’ll find an abundance of things to see and do.

Top Reasons to Visit Athens

• The Acropolis and Parthenon
• Delicious Greek Food
• Over 250 Sunny Days a Year
• World Class Museums 
• Great Base for Island Hopping
• An Abundance of Historical Landmarks Nearby
• Athens Is a Walkable City
• Home of the First Modern Olympic Games
• Vibrant Rooftop Bars and Nightlife
• Photogenic Streets of Plaka and Monastiraki
• Welcoming Locals
• Less than 90minutes to ski-resorts
• A Year-Round Calendar of Great Cultural Events

Visiting Athens, Greece – Know Before You Go

Before we delve into why visit Athens, here’s some useful information to know before you go.

If you’re in the planning stages of your Athens visit, then be sure to read this section, if you’re reading this article and you’re already in Athens, then jump straight to the reasons to visit the Athens section.

How to Get to Athens?

If you’re travelling to Athens, Greece, you’ll be glad to know that getting to Athens is easy and straightforward. There are a range of transportation options available;

By Air: The main airport serving Athens is the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). It’s located about 20km outside of the city centre. There are direct flights from many European cities, along with international destinations in Asia, Africa, and the United States.

By Road: Greece shares borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey, making it a great destination for a road trip around the region. 

By Boat: Athens has three ports namely Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion, all of which offer daily ferry connections to the Aegean Sea islands.

Getting Around Athens

Once you’re in Athens, the city is well-connected and easy to get around. The public transport system includes metro, bus, suburban rail, tram and trolleybus services. The central hub that everything goes past is at Syntagma Square.

There are plenty of taxis available for hire, however before getting in, check the price and that it is a metered journey. There are numerous reports of scams from taxi drivers in Greece even when using apps!

Is Athens, Greece walkable?

As a huge fan of walking, I was pleasantly surprised with how pedestrianised everywhere was, especially in the areas of Plaka, Monastiraki and Koukaki.

The city is large and sprawling, however, all the points of interest are fairly centrally located making it easy to get around on foot. Get you bearings by doing a city walking tour .

Is Athens Safe?

One of my biggest concerns before my visit was about the safety in Athens. I’d heard so many stories about the crime that when I arrived I was on edge a little. I’m not saying crime doesn’t happen – it does – however, in my personal experience it felt like it was on par with London or Paris. My slight anxiety dissolved fairly quickly.

The two biggest gripes I heard about were either pickpocketing or scams – but in fairness, this can happen anywhere in the world. I stayed in the Koukaki district and didn’t encounter any problems, even walking at night alone.

So, is Athens safe for tourists? Yes, just be cautious of where your valuables are. As for scams, these are mostly from street vendors and taxi drivers. Buy tickets from official outlets and check how much your taxi ride will cost before you get in.

29 Reasons to Visit Athens

So, why go to Athens?

Although there are dozens more things I could have listed in this article, here are my top reasons why you should visit Athens.

If you’re looking for more great things to see and do in the city, then you can read my full Athens bucket list article here.

1. The Acropolis and Parthenon

If you’re not sure what is Athens famous for, then this is it. The Acropolis is the most popular attraction in Athens and a must if you’re visiting the city.

The iconic ancient citadel located high atop a rocky outcrop in the centre of the city is home to one of the most famous ancient ruins in the world. It includes the Parthenon, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion and Monument of Agrippa. In 1987, The Acropolis was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Dating back to the 5th century BC, it is one of the world’s oldest and most revered landmarks. If you’ve read my blog for a while, you’ll know I love temples and ruin sites . The Acropolis had been on my bucket list for years, so much so, I actually visited twice during my time in Athens just to make sure I didn’t miss anything.

Tips for Visiting the Acropolis

Walk into any Athens tourism shop and you’ll find a multitude of tours based around it. You can visit independently. Buy your skip-the-line ticket in advance, and get there as soon as the gates open at 8 am.

The site gets insanely busy. On my visit, I went straight to the Parthenon first. The first hour after opening, the crowds are still minimal, however, from about 10 am, it resembled an ant hill!

If you want a balance of a guided tour, but without the crowds, then the Pristine Parthenon tour by WalksTours offers just that. You’ll get to enter the site as soon as it opens making the most of the quieter hours.  

2. Delicious Greek Food

Greek cuisine is renowned for its unique flavours and fresh ingredients. From the classic Greek salad to souvlaki and gyros, there is a myriad of delicious dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

The key to traditional Greek cooking is simplicity – using few ingredients but relying on quality produce and time-honoured techniques to create mouthwatering dishes.

As a vegetarian, I sometimes struggle with finding enough variety in a country’s traditional dishes. In Greece, I ate like a Queen every day. I was spoilt for choice, and thankful that I was doing so much walking to counteract everything I was gorging myself on.

Here are some of the irresistible things I highly recommend tying:

• Dolmades –  This traditional Greek dish is made of vine leaves filled with a mixture of rice, vegetables, herbs and spices. The filling is then rolled up in the vine leaves and cooked and then drizzled with olive oil and lemon.
• Greek Dips and Pita Bread – I particularly enjoyed tzatziki (yoghurt, cucumber, and garlic), melitzanosalata (aubergine dip), and fava, (smooth and velvety puree made from split peas).
• Kolokythokeftedes – Diced courgette, often mixed with feta and herbs, rolled into balls and then fried.
• Kasseri cheese – Often served semi-melted and drizzled with honey
• Greek Salad – A classic dish made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, and olives seasoned with oregano and salt and then dressed with olive oil.

3. Over 250 Sunny Days a Year

Athens is blessed with over 250 sunny days per year making it a year-round destination.  With plenty of sunshine, you can enjoy visits to all the city’s attractions without worrying about extreme weather conditions.

The summer months (July and August) are usually the hottest times of the year with temperatures reaching the mid-30s.

Winter is milder, with temperatures often reaching around 13 degrees, but with plenty of sunshine. If you’re visiting Athens in winter don’t let the cooler temperatures put you off.

4. World Class Museums 

Athens is a city that is rich in culture and history, and this can be seen in its world-class museums.

One of the most impressive is the Acropolis Museum, which houses some of the greatest archaeological finds from the ancient Greek site. The museum’s modern glass and marble building is designed to showcase these spectacular finds while telling the story of Athens’ past and ancient Greek history. The building straddles ruins that were found during its construction.

It’s worth visiting the museum after you visit the Acropolis, as it helps to piece everything you have seen together. Looking at the ruin site, it can be difficult to imagine what it would’ve looked like three thousand years ago. Aside from the original artefacts, I really liked the number of artist reconstructions in the museum which brought everything to life.

If you’re a fan of ancient Greece then another worthy museum is the National Archaeological Museum. This is the largest of its kind in Greece and contains over 11,000 artefacts from various time periods. The Benaki Museum is another top choice, and gives an insight into Greek culture throughout the centuries, with a large collection of art, furniture, jewellery and coins.

5. Great Base for Island Hopping

Athens is the perfect base for island hopping, with easy access to the Aegean Sea and its beautiful archipelago of over 2,000 islands, ranging from picturesque Cyclades to quaint Crete.

With a wide variety of transportation options like cruise ships, ferries and hydrofoils, you’ll have plenty of options to explore a range of destinations.

Although you can visit the Greek islands on a day trip, if you have time, I highly recommend taking the 4-night cruise with Celestyal Cruises . This is one of the most efficient ways to visit a lot of islands in a short space of time. Their 4-day Mediterranean cruise calls in at Mykonos, Kusadasi (Turkey), Patmos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini.

Read Next: The Best Greek Island Hopping Cruise In the Aegean Sea

6. Abundance of Historical Landmarks Nearby

Athens is blessed with more ruins than just the Acropolis. If you have time for more, I highly recommend Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaistos as well as Roman Agora – although with Roman Agora you can see most of it from the gates.

You can buy a multi-ticket which gives entry to seven ancient sites in Athens, including the Acropolis. If you’re a fan of ruins and plan to see at last the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, the multi-pass will save you a lot of money .

7. Athens Is a Walkable City

I’m a huge fan of walking – partly because it helps orientate myself, but also because I love taking photos and discovering little hidden gems that you’d miss out on if you took the metro, bus or taxi everywhere.

Athens is a huge city that officially covers an area of 38.96 km2 (15.04 sq mi). Thankfully, all of the main tourist attractions are central. Many of the areas surrounding the Acropolis, such as  Plaka and Monastiraki are pedestrianised making it pleasant to wander.

Lycabettus Hill & Philopappos Hill

Athens is relatively flat, that is unless you want to climb one of the surrounding hills – which I highly recommend you do. The easiest of the two, and the best sunset view in Athens is Philopappos Hill. The more challenging walk is up Lycabettus Hill which gives impressive views over the city – if this walk is too challenging, then you can opt to take the funicular train up.

8. Easily Acceable Ski-Resorts and Alpine Regions

Did you know you can go skiing in Greece? No, neither did I! In less than two hours from Athens, you’ll find yourself in the municipality of Xylokastro-Evrostina.

My visit was in May, so the snow had melted, but driving around this region it really does resemble a Swiss village. The ski season here runs from December and March.

Outside of the ski season, this region really does feel like stepping into the set of ‘Sound of Music’. During spring, the mountainous terrain still has caps of snow, but the lower areas a filled with meadows and spring flowers, scented pine tree forests, refreshing waterfalls and sapphire blue- lakes. The area transforms into an outdoor-sport lovers’ playground where you can hike, bike, horseback ride, ATV and boat on the lakes.

9. Home of the First Modern Olympic Games

A short walk from the Acropolis and old town you’ll find the stadium.

Athens was the host of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, which were held at the Panathenaic Stadium. This was an ancient stadium that was initially built in 330 BC and reconstructed out of marble for the first modern Olympics. It is still standing today and is the only stadium made entirely out of marble.

10. Vibrant Rooftop Bars and Nightlife

Athens is a vibrant city with plenty of nightlife. You can find everything from cosy, traditional taverns to chic rooftop bars. I had THE BEST Espresso Martini at a brunch-by-day-bar-by-night venue called This is Loco in the Koukaki district.

For the best rooftop view of the Acropolis head to either A for Athens or 360 Degrees Hotel and Bar. They aren’t the cheapest place to drink in the city BUT you pay for the view.

For nightlife, I recommend heading to either Drunk Sinatra or the incredibly quirky but Insta-worthy Little Kook.

11. Photogenic Streets of Plaka and Monastiraki

Plaka and Monastiraki are two of the most photogenic and vibrant neighbourhoods in Athens. Located near the heart of the city, these areas boast a unique mix of ancient and modern that make them popular with tourists and locals alike.

Plaka is located below the Acropolis hill and is made up of winding cobblestone streets, coloured townhouses and plenty of restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafes. Monastiraki is located a short walk from Plaka and is known for its lively street market, charming rooftop bars and bustling tavernas.

Flower-laden balconies and windowsills, plant-lined streets and colourful houses all make these areas incredibly photogenic. Both of these areas get busy, so if you’re wanting to photograph the pretty streets, I suggest getting there before 10 am to make the most of the tranquillity.

If you’re a fan of street art, keep your eyes peeled. You’ll see loads of it around all these areas.

12. Welcoming Locals & the friendly street Cats

One of my first impressions after arriving in Greece was how friendly and welcoming the locals were. 

Although Greek is the official language, English is widely spoken, particularly in the tourist areas. As an English speaker, you shouldn’t face any difficulties when visiting the city. I had so many random conversations with random strangers.

Athens (and Greece in general) also has hundreds of friendly street cats. You’ll see them lounging about in the sun at the ruin sites, sitting in doorways and even on the chairs at cafes. The residents of Athens take care of the street cats, and you’ll see little shelters and bowls of food left out for them. If you’re a cat lover, then you’ll be glad to hear that they are also super friendly – I spent ages petting them.

Visiting Athens – Month by Month

You might be wondering if it is worth going to Athens in a particular month. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year when you visit Athens.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in January?

• Christmas World – Throughout December and January – features light installations, an ice rink and traditional Christmas stalls.

Athens weather in January: Temperature ranges between 7°-13° with around 5 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in February?

• Apokreas Carnival – A festival to signify the start of lent. Expect colourful street parades, traditional music and elaborate costumes.

Athens weather in February: Temperature ranges between 7°-14° with around 5 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in March?

• Greek Independence Day Parade – Marked with Striking Military Parade in Athens on the 25th March every year

Athens weather in March: Temperature ranges between 9°-16° with around 4 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in April?

• Athens Science Festival – This is a spring festival that poses thought-provoking questions and presents enjoyable, imaginative, and engaging ways to answer them. It’s a great experience for people of all ages.

Athens weather in April: Temperature ranges between 12°-20° with around 3 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in May?

• Athens City Festival happens throughout the months of May. You’ll find a diverse range of free events to enjoy such as open walks, exhibitions, picnics, street parties, large concerts, intimate gigs, sports events, and food experiences.
• Athens Digital Arts Festival – Experience a fusion of art and science through interactive installations, video art, animations and audiovisual performances that push the boundaries of our perception of reality, whether it is physical, enhanced or simulated. Get a sneak peek into the future.
• Onassis Fast Forward Festival – There is a two-week festival in Athens that showcases contemporary culture with hybrid performances, interactive installations, and video works in both public and private spaces. It challenges our perceptions of art, life, and the universe.
• Athens Jazz Festival – This week-long celebration of jazz features performances by both local and international musicians. Admission to the event is free of charge.

Athens weather in May: Temperature ranges between 16°-25° with around 2 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in June?

• The Athens Epidaurus Festival happens from June through to August.  At this special celebration of music, theatre, dance and art, you can see some of the great works by ancient Greek playwrights like Sophocles and Aristophanes. Famous international stars like Sting and Nana Mouskouri will be there too. The show takes place over three months at two different venues: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
• The Summer Nostos Festival – dates differ each year (see July for more details)
• Athens Open Air Film Festival – happens between June and August – It transforms Athens into one big (and free) outdoor cinema all summer long. 

Athens weather in June: Temperature ranges between 20°-29° with around 1 day of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in July?

• The Athens Epidaurus Festival happens from June through to August (see June for more details)
• The Summer Nostos Festival – dates differ each year, but the week-long festival falls during the summer months.  The event offers a combination of music, dance, sports, and workshops featuring international celebrities.
• Ejekt Festival – A music festival featuring global acts and emerging artists at this summer event.

Athens weather in July: Temperature ranges between 23°-32° with around 0 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in August?

Athens weather in August: Temperature ranges between 23°-32° with around 0 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in September?

• Athens International Film Festival – This popular two-week film festival showcases independent movies from various countries worldwide. The opening night premiere is considered the unofficial beginning of the Athens film festival season.
• Athens Beer Festival – Featuring local and international craft beers

Athens weather in September: Temperature ranges between 20°-28° with around 1 day of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in October?

• The Art Athina festival runs between October and November. For one month, you can look at special rooms online and talk to cool artists. There will also be a free Pop Up exhibition that is open for a shorter time.
• Panorama of European Cinema – runs between October and December – The film festival in Athens is a must-visit for those interested in European arthouse cinema and world movies, and it is also the longest-running festival of its kind in Athens.

Athens weather in October: Temperature ranges between 15°-28° with around 3 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in November?

• The Art Athina festival runs between October and November (see October for more details)
• Athens Avant-Garde Film Festival – between November and December – Our selection includes previously unreleased films and timeless classics from around the world. The language for this message is English (US).
• Panorama of European Cinema – runs between October and December (see October for details)

Athens weather in November: Temperature ranges between 12°-18° with around 4 days of rain.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in December?

• AthensCon – A two-day festival celebrating comic and pop culture, featuring notable guests, workshops, screenings, and cosplay.

Athens weather in December: Temperature ranges between 8°-15° with around 6 days of rain.

Is It Worth Visiting Athens- FAQs

If you were wondering, is Athens worth a visit? Yes, 100%

I’ve given you 29 great reasons why you should put this city on your radar. I’m hoping you’ve learned that Athens is 100% worth visiting. This next section answers some common questions and travel tips that crop up when planning your trip to Athens.

This final section devels into some common questions about planning a trip to Athens.

Is Athens in Europe?

Yes, Athens is in Europe.

Is Athens in Greece?

Yes, Athens is the capital of Greece.

Where Is Athens City Centre?

Athens city centre is located in the heart of Greece’s capital in the south of the country. It is bordered by Mount Lycabettus to the north. The Acropolis of Athens is situated just south of the city centre.

How Many Days Do You Need in Athens?

I would suggest allowing a minimum of three days to get a good feel for the city. If you have longer then you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Athens.

Is Athens Expensive?

If you’re wondering is athens expensive for tourists, the answer is, it depends on where you’re comparing it to. Athens is cheaper than other European capitals like Paris, Amsterdam or London, but it’s more expensive than cities in Eastern Europe. Typically a meal costs between 10-20 Euros, a cocktail is around 10 Euros, and a coffee is about 3 Euros.

Is Athens Dirty?

Athens has a reputation for being dirty, but this is largely untrue, especially around the historical and tourist areas.

Is Athens Worth Visiting in the Winter?

Athens is a year-round destination. You might be wondering is athens worth visiting for tourists in winter – yes!  Athens offers plenty of entertainment during the colder months, such as Christmas markets, ice skating rinks and seasonal events.

Why Is Athens Better Than Rome?

Athens is an incredible city with millennia of history. It’s older than Rome!

Is Athens a Safe City?

Overall, yes Athens is a safe city. If you’re wondering is Athens safe for American tourists, the answer is also yes. Greece, like the rest of Europe, is incredibly liberal and welcomes American tourists like those from any other nation.

Still Thinking, Why Visit Athens? 

So, why is Athens a good place to visit? Not only is it home to centuries of history, stunning landscapes and parks, vibrant nightlife, and delicious local cuisine there are also plenty of year-round festivals to enjoy.

I absolutely fell in love with Athens, my only regret was that I could have spent double or triple the time there exploring the city. It’s an outstanding destination with so much appeal. If you’re still wondering is Athens worth visiting, then my suggestion, go and experience it for yourself – you won’t regret it!

Looking for more reasons to visit Athens or Greece, read more here…

• Greek Island Hopping in the Aegean Sea

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Have a question about planning your Athens itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Athens: An In-Depth Itinerary

I’m obsessed with Greece.

From the moment I stepped foot in this beautiful country, it was love at first mouthful. There’s something about Greece feels so healing. Being there calms my mind, soothes my worries, and leaves me feeling healthier and stronger than ever. And the food? Guys . I’ve been to over 90 countries and Greece is my number one destination for eating.

I believe Athens is one of the greatest European cities out there, and it’s the perfect destination for a city break. This city is magnificent! With great street art, incredible food, colourful neighbourhoods, and so much history, there really is something for everybody.

I think three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Athens, so today, I’m excited to share exactly how you can do so.

Day One: Begin Diving Into Athen’s History

The first thing you should do in Athens is a no-brainer: buy your combined ticket.

What’s that?

Well, it costs €35, and for that, you’ll gain access to all of the main attractions in Athens, including the Acropolis. Not only will you get to explore the most famous site in the city, but you’ll also be able to enter the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Aristotle’s School, Kerameikos, and the Olympieion — you can visit each of these once over a five-day period, and you can buy the ticket at the entrance to any of them. You’ll save a whole bunch of money by doing this, so the only reason not to get the combined ticket is if you think you’ll only want to see one or two of the attractions.

However, if you happen to be reading this before you get to Athens, I highly recommend buying your combined ticket online . Doing so means you get to avoid the long lines for tickets and can simply show the QR code on your phone to gain entry.

If you haven’t bought your combined ticket online, once you arrive in Athens, head to the Ancient Agora and join the queue for one.

The Ancient Agora was built in the 6th Century BC and was once the centre of life in ancient Athens. Used as a marketplace and gathering spot, this was where you’d have found people like Socrates, Aristotle and Plato casually wandering around town. Almost all of the commercial, political, and social activity took place in the ancient Agora, so this is a hugely important area to check out.

Once you’ve entered the Ancient Agora, head first to the Temple of Hephaestus, which is the best-preserved temple in Athens. And that sure is impressive when you consider that it was built in 415 BC — it’s still in great condition!

The views were pretty acceptable, too.

Aside from the Temple of Hephaestus, the Ancient Agora is also home to your standard ruin remnants: collections of rocks, stumps, and fallen-down walls, hinting at the temples and stalls that would have once stood here. But, as always with ruins, you’ll have to use your imagination, because it is still a pile of rocks on the ground.

There’s the Stoa of Attalos here, too — built in the 2nd Century BC, although since reconstructed — which currently acts as a museum for the Ancient Agora. And the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, which was built in 1000 AD, is one of the few structures in the Agora that’s still standing.

Before arriving in Athens, I kind of assumed it would feel like a poor man’s Rome, but at this point, I was well and truly eating my words. Athens was pretty goddamn awe-inspiring.

Next, you’ll want to make your way over to the Kerameikos Cemetery, which is another site that’s included in your combined pass. This spot was one of the most important regions of ancient Athens. Once used as a neighbourhood for pottery and painters, it was the place where all of those famous Athenian vases were produced.

It was later transformed into a cemetery: one of Athens’ most important.

As you wander the site, you’ll also be able to spot pieces of the Themistoclean Wall, which was built in 478 BC to protect the city from the Spartans.

I’m convinced that it’s impossible to have a bad meal in Greece: their cuisine is too delicious to mess up. I’ve yet to have a meal that wasn’t excellent in this country, whether I’ve been sat beside a congested motorway in the middle of nowhere, snacking at a taverna on a yacht in the Ionian, or dining in the most touristy parts of Athens.

The latter was exactly what we opted for at lunchtime, and it should have been terrible.

I settled on the most touristy restaurant on the most touristy of streets, with touts outside, and a menu in English with photos of the dishes. What can I say? We were starving by this point, so decided to give in and eat an overpriced, poor meal.

Except it was amazing! Because Greece.

While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend heading to a touristy restaurant for any of your meals in Athens, I suspect you won’t be all that disappointed if you do end up there. Eat anywhere in Athens! It’s always going to be delicious.

After lunch, it’s time to hit up the second Agora in Athens. The Roman Agora was built in the 1st century BC, financed by Caesar and Augustus, and like the Ancient Agora, was used as the city’s marketplace. You enter the site through the Gate of Athena Archegetis, which was built by Julius Caesar and dedicated to the goddess Athena.

The most well-known and well-preserved building is the Tower of the Winds: a large octagonal marble tower that functions as a sundial, weathervane, and water clock. It’s believed to be the first meteorological station in the world and it’s well-worth having a look inside.

One of my favourite neighbourhoods in Athens was Plaka, so you’re going to want to head there after the Roman Agora. Everybody who spends time in Athens falls in love with this neighbourhood! You could spend hours exploring its photogenic streets.

Plaka is all about clean colourful streets, bustling cafes, and amazing places to eat. It’s popular with visitors, so often busy, but you’ll still love spending an afternoon cafe-hopping through the picturesque streets and taking photos of all of the colours.

While you’re in Plaka, you also have to check out nearby Anafiotika’s white-washed buildings and narrow streets for an insight into what Greek island life is like. The buildings look a lot like what you find on Santorini.

Grab dinner in Plaka or in a restaurant overlooking the Acropolis. You’ll have an early start tomorrow, so you’ll want to get an early night.

Day Two: All Acropolis, All the Time

Against popular belief, I highly, strenuously, aggressively recommend saving the Acropolis for your second day in Athens. As tempting as it is to head straight to the most iconic building in the city, there’s several reasons why you should hold off until later.

Firstly, sunrise is the absolute best time to see the ruins, and who wants to spend their first day in a new city waking up at 6 a.m.? Not me! And secondly, the Acropolis is going to make every other site in Athens pale in comparison, so I recommend not hitting it up on your first day.

Aim to get to the southeast gate of the Acropolis at 7.30 a.m., half an hour before it opens at 8. You’ll already have your combined pass, so you won’t need to queue to buy a ticket. When the gate does open, rush past everybody else, ignore every ruin and attraction near the entrance, and focus solely on racing up the hill to the Acropolis. Don’t worry — it’s well sign-posted.

When I did this, my determination paid off, because I had the entire complex to myself for a solid five minutes. In this age of overtourism, getting to marvel over the Acropolis with nobody else around felt magical.

Below is what the entrance to the Acropolis looked like when I reached the top, with just my partner in the photo, and below that is what it was like half an hour later. Yes. Half. an. hour. later. It was unbelievable how many people had ascended the hill in such a short period of time.

In short: the southeast gate at 7:30 a.m. — it’ll allow you to see the site without anybody else around.

And why the southeastern gate, in particular? It has much smaller queues! It’s less popular with tourists, so you’ll be able to make your way to the Acropolis before everybody else.

My other top tip, for when you reach the Acropolis, is to race around and snap your photos, capturing the majesty of these structures without others around. But then , to take a moment to appreciate what you’re witnessing, rather than checking it out from behind your phone screen. Take a deep breath, take in the scene, and think about the history that has taken place in this spot.

Several minutes later, it’s time to start bracing yourself for crowds.

The Acropolis is the name given to the complex on top of the hill, and it’s made up of several individual buildings.

There’s the Temple of Athena Nike, the iconic Parthenon, the Old Temple of Athena, the Legendary Olive Tree of the Pandroseion, the Porch of the Caryatids at the Erechtheion… and on your way down, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Oh, and while you’re exploring all of the monuments on top of the hill, make sure to wander off to the sides to snap some photos of Athens from above. I ended up taking some of my favourite photos from my time there.

Something that sounds boring but isn’t is the Acropolis Museum, and I recommend spending a couple of hours there.

As someone who identifies as a museum-avoider, I listened to the recommendations of everyone who had been (they insisted I go inside!), and made myself check it out. And I loved it. The museum houses tons of sculptures unearthed from the Acropolis and it was fascinating to see them in person.

You’ll also get to learn about how my country took the Parthenon Marbles, plopped them in the British Museum, and refuses to give them back to Greece. Awkward.

Head to Syntagma Square next to watch the changing of the guard. This takes place every hour on the hour, so attempt to time your visit perfectly. The guards wear fun outfits, march around in unison, and generally make for interesting photos.

From Syntagma Square, venture next to the enormous National Archaeological Museum to get your history on. This museum is seriously impressive and complements the ruin-themed explorations you’ve done so far.

When you emerge from the museum, you’ll be in the achingly cool Exarchia neighbourhood, which is one of my favourite parts of the city. It’s well-worth a wander and meal in the evening. So many great restaurants and bars! I especially recommend  Atitamos for Cretan food and Giantes for excellent meals all round.

Day Three: Everything Else

We’ll keep this day more chilled out and spend most of the day crossing off the final remaining attractions on your combined pass. By this point, you’ve visited the Acropolis and checked out the Ancient and Roman Agoras, but you still have a handful of attractions to explore. Fortunately, these can all be seen fairly quickly.

Start your day by heading to Monastiraki for some ruins, architecture, and shopping. If you’re looking to stock up on tat souvenirs, this is the place to come. Opposite the Monastiraki metro station, you’ll find Hadrian’s Library and the Tzistarakis mosque — the former was built in 132 AD by Emperor Hadrian, and was the largest library of Athens. Today, it’s little more than a handful of columns, but you get free entry with your combo ticket, so it’s absolutely worth a wander around.

Beside the library is the mosque, which was built during Athens’ Ottoman rule.

Next, head to Hadrian’s Gate for that picture-perfect photo of the Acropolis framed by the archway.

Just beside the gate is the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples in ancient Greece. To give you an idea of its size, in my photo above, you can see just 15 columns. When it was built, there were over a hundred.

From the temple, wander over to the Panathenaic Stadium to check out the world’s only stadium that’s built entirely of marble. Built in 330 BC, it was also home to the first modern Olympic Games, way back in 1896.

By this stage, you’re probably well and truly tired of staring at archaeological marvels, so grab a souvlaki from Monastiraki and head to the National Garden for a relaxing stroll and rest.

If you were wondering which of the sites from the combined ticket aren’t worth it, I’d have to go for Aristotle’s Lyceum. The ruins are far from impressive, relative to everything else you can see in Athens. The only reason to go is to see somewhere of great historical significance. This the school Aristotle founded in 335 B.C. and later taught at, along with Isocrates, Plato, and Socrates.

These days, it’s simply a bunch of rocks on the ground, so you likely won’t spend too much time staring at them.

To round off your time in Athens, you’re going to want to head to Mount Lycabettus to get one of the best views over the entire city.

If you’re into walking, go for the hike to the top. It’ll take around 20 minutes, but the path is pretty steep. Otherwise, you can take a cable car or taxi to the top.

This is the perfect spot for sunset, looking down over the Acropolis and the sea.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Athens

August is the worst time of year to visit. Sorry, but it’s true! Like much of Europe, Athens is at its absolute worst in summer. It’s overwhelmingly hot (40°C/105°F!), crammed full of tourists and cruise ship passengers, and most of the locals have left in search of cooler climates. It’s not going to be disastrous if you do visit in August, but keep in mind that it’s going to get pretty uncomfortable as you explore those ruins in the heat.

The best time to visit Athens, then, is between March and May, and between September and November. During those breezy spring and autumn months, you’ll encounter balmy weather and plenty of blue skies, far fewer tourists (although you’ll want to avoid the weeks around Easter), and cheaper flights and accommodation.

What about visiting Athens in winter? Athens is quite a dry country, so you shouldn’t encounter too much rain, but it will be quite chilly. Between November and January, you can expect average temperatures of 10°C (50°F), and around 7-10 days of rain across each month. Snow is very rare. Still, the lack of crowds and very low prices are the prizes here, as well as one extra special bonus:

On every Sunday, between 1st November and 31st March, all of the main attractions in the city (including the Acropolis!) are totally free to enter. If you’re down for some low season travel, it’ll save you a bunch of money.

How to Get Around Athens

There’s Uber in Athens: That always makes getting around a less stressful experience! I used Uber to get from the airport to my hotel and from my hotel to the bus station when it came time to leave. No problems with either experience!

There is a Greek equivalent called BEAT, which is worth downloading before you arrive in the city. It has more drivers available than Uber, so if you plan on taxiing your way around town, will help save some time.

Consider the metro: I really enjoyed using the metro in Athens! It’s clean, easy to navigate, and cheaper than taking Ubers all over the city. A one-way ticket on the Athens public transport network costs €1.40 and allows you to use any method of transportation for 90 minutes. A day pass comes in at €4.50. The best value pass, however, is the €22 tourist pass. Valid for three days, it entitles you to unlimited travel around the city over that time, and includes a round trip to and from the airport. You can pick up your pass at the bus and metro ticketing area at the airport in the arrivals hall.

Traffic can be wild: The streets of Athens can be fairly chaotic for a European city, but it’s nothing too outrageous. Just enough, though, that I wouldn’t recommend renting a car while you’re in the city.

Where to Stay in Athens

You’ve got a lot to squeeze into your time in Athens, so you’re going to want to stay in a hotel that’s right in the heart of the action, close to Monastiraki Square. But most of all, you’re also going to want to stay somewhere quiet . Sleep is important, especially if you’re going to be fighting off jetlag.

I recommend staying in 360Degrees Pop Art Hotel , while you’re in Athens, as it ticks the boxes for both of those criteria, plus so much more. You’ll be staying just 200 yards from Monastiraki Square, in the heart of Athens, and next to a metro station, but because you’re not in the square, the rooms are quiet.

It’s a boutique hotel, which I much prefer over soulless chains, and the staff are only too happy to give travel advice and ensure you have the best trip ever. One of the best parts of staying in this hotel is the breakfasts! So good. And they’re eaten on a rooftop terrace, overlooking the Acropolis, which makes for a particularly epic start to your mornings.

Check prices on Booking .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

And finally, I’m a firm believer that if you can’t afford  travel insurance , you can’t afford to travel, and this holds true for  every  country in the world.

Travel insurance will offer compensation if your flight gets cancelled, pay for you to replace your lost luggage, cover your medical bills if you get struck down with appendicitis, and ensure you don’t face any emergency travel costs to get back home for a family emergency. Nobody likes to think about things going wrong on their trips, but  travel insurance  is a must to ensure you’re not out thousands of dollars if the worst case scenario comes true.

I use and recommend  SafetyWing travel insurance  for visitors to Athens. They provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. Finally, they have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

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Have you been to Athens before?

Lauren juliff.

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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17 comments.

Loved this guide! I loved Athens when there back in 2010 – but traveled in Greece with a terrible ex. The whole time knew I’d love to come back and experience it anew with the right person. Me, my husband & baby are finally making it over to mainland Europe this fall (Barcelona & Berlin), and this makes me want to put Greece at the top of the list for our next European trip.

Thank you for all you do! I’ve always loved reading your writing, and so happy to see new blogs up. Haven’t commented before, but really, really appreciate your candor, humor & info!

While I love your writing, having been to Athens before, I just wanted to say how much I loved your photos in this post! And in the photo of you, you look good and healthy! So I hope you’re also feeling that way!

Ah, thank you so much, Scott! That means a lot :-) I’m definitely feeling a whole lot better!

After having been to greece and athens many times , I can say that your photos and your views on athens are very good. Our daughter has lived in greece for nearly 20 years, and every time we go , I fall in love with it a little more. She used to live in Pangrati, which is a 20 min walk from Plaka and approx 15 mins from the marble stadium. Since then she and her husband and children have moved closer to the coast, which although it is about 45 mins away from the city, is beautiful ,and clean, and a pleasure to visit. One more thing to pass comment on is the warmth and Friendlinessof the Greek people. Especially if you take the time to learn a few greek words. They think it’s wonderful.

Wonderful post, Lauren, and I love the tips on how to beat the crowds.. I’ve never been to Athens but I’ve got a feeling that Greece is just my kind of place – you get that vibe from some places sometimes that you’re drawn to.

Fabulous photos & tips, Lauren, thank you. Wish I could do European city breaks like that but it’s too far from Toronto :) Best wishes on your travels, Georgia

Great tip to visit the Acropolis after the other sites. Are the crowds the largest in the morning or the afternoon? I was wondering what it would be like later in the day before it closes. Athens is definitely on my radar :)

I think it’s fair to say that Athens is the most underrated capital city in Europe.

Thanks for this great post! I love that you included Anafiotika and the often-overlooked Kerameikos – I don’t think enough people get to see this fascinating site and the great little museum in it. Your before-and-after photos of the Acropolis entry were trippy! Talk about a picture being worth a thousand words! :^D

I liked the Acropolis very much, and I agree it’s best to combine sightseeing with the Acropolis Museum. This way you can get to know this place better.

Hi, great blog! .Just a couple of tips to add. Entrance fees are all reduced by half in the Winter and unless you plan to go to all the sites and museums it covers its actually cheaper to pay individually. And whatever time of year you go, book your Acropolis tickets in advance, the queues at the ticket desk are horrendous, even at Christmas when we went!

Thank you for adding those, Caroline! :-)

Athens is a beautiful city with a lot of ancient landmarks. The city centre is pretty compact and most landmarks are easily to reach by walking. Perhaps, our navigation system for the metro (subway) of Athens could be useful as well. https://www.metrocazar.com/athens/

I love Athens! I just spent nine days there and was blown away by it. It felt unlike any European city I’ve visited. I also feel so fortunate to have gone right now just as tourism is restarting in Greece, because I totally took it for granted when I rolled up to the Acropolis at 11 am and there were still no crowds whatsoever. I had forgotten what it’s probably like normally until I saw that photo you snapped of the crowds!

Ah, amazing! Yeah, it’s been much the same in New Zealand during the pandemic — the lack of crowds at major tourist attractions has been incredible to experience! The crowds at the Acropolis were truly intense when I visited, and that was during September, so not even the peak of high season.

Hello, l came across your post on Athens and is has been so helpful planning my trip. We leave in a few days. One question, the view from he rooftop bar is amazing, can you tell me the name of it?

Thank you so much

A for Athens was the name of it! There’s quite a few bars and cafes in Monastiraki Square that will give you a similar view, too :-)

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Is Athens Worth Visiting? 23 Reasons to Visit Athens in 2024

Is Athens worth visiting? Absolutely! Athens is the gateway to Greece as most international travelers will come to Greece through Athens International Airport. However, Athens is not a city to just pass over. A city with 3,000 years worth of history and culture, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, lively markets, and friendly people, Athens is definitely worth visiting.

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Planning a trip to Athens, Greece? Check out these recommended resources:

Accommodation – Booking.com Tours – Viator Car Rental – Discover Cars Airport Transfer – Welcome Pickups

23 Things to Do and Reasons Why Athens is Worth Visiting

There are so many things to do in Athens, Greece. The city has thousands of years worth of history and is a paradise for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. The city has a lively culture with beautiful shops, markets, nightlife, and the food? The food is simply amazing.

There is truly something for everyone in Athens – Just check out the list below of all the reasons Athens is worth visiting.

1. The Acropolis of Athens – The #1 reason why Athens is worth visiting

The Acropolis of Athens is a highlight of visiting Athens and a bucket list destination. The word Acropolis actually refers to the entire fortified citadel, including the famous buildings such as the Parthenon, Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and several more.

There is over 3,000 years worth of history at the Athenian Acropolis and it is arguably the most historically significant site in all of Greece. Due to this I highly recommend booking a guided tour such as this Athens All Included: Acropolis and Museum In a Cultural Guided Walking Tour .

We tried to visit the Acropolis without taking a tour, and regretted it. The buildings are impressive, but its much more interesting to learn the stories behind them. Additionally, lines at the Acropolis can be long, and so a tour or skip the line ticket is worth it.

👉 Click Here to Book a Skip the Line Guided Tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum

For those that aren’t big into history, I recommend this highly rated Athens Highlights: a Mythological Tour which combines some history with fascinating myths and legends of Ancient Greece.

The Acropolis of Athens includes the remains of several historically significant buildings, with the most famous being the Parthenon. The Parthenon is the highlight of the Athens skyline, and is the building many people think of when they picture Athens. The Parthenon dates back to the 5th century BC, and was a temple dedicated to the Greek Goddess Athena.

Another highlight of the Acropolis is the Propylaia. The purpose was to be the monumental gates to the Acropolis but it was never completely finished. To the right of the Propylaia, you will find the Temple of Athena Nike. This temple was dedicated to both the goddesses Athena and Nike, and was where ancient Athenians would worship for success in war.

Other notable buildings include the Erechtheion, which has the famous Athena statues, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Odeon of Herodes is an impressive Roman stone theater that once hosted up to 5,000 attendants. It was built in 161 AD during the Rome-controlled era of Athens.

2. The Acropolis Museum

If you enjoy history, you’ll love the Acropolis Museum. The museum is a perfect addition to visiting the Acropolis, as the museum contains all the artifacts, statues, and artwork found at the Acropolis’ excavation site.

The museum takes around 1-2 hours to visit, depending on your level of interest. Tickets are 10€ from Nov 1-March 31 and 15€ From April 1-Oct 31. You can also book a guided tour that includes both the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum .

There is also a café with outdoor seating which makes for a perfect break with great views of the Acropolis in the distance.

3. Wander around in Plaka

Plaka is the old historical neighborhood in Athens, in fact this area has been largely inhabited since the days of ancient Greece. The neighborhood includes historically significant sites like the Roman Agora, and also borders the Acropolis.

Plaka is an absolutely beautiful area of Athens, with picturesque cobblestone streets full of shops and restaurants. The main street of Plaka is Adrianou, and is a great place to wander through boutique shops.

Plaka is a must visit stop on any trip to Athens, and also makes for a great area to stay in as it is charming and central to all the major attractions.

4. Explore the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus

The word “Agora” means market place or central area. The Ancient Agora is the best known example of a classical age agora in Greece. Founded in the 6th century BC, this would have been the center of town, with merchants selling goods and also where important decision would have been voted on by Athenians.

Located in the Ancient Agora, you will find the Temple of Hephaestus, which was completed in 415 BC. The Temple was dedicated to Hephaestus, who was the patron god of metal working, craftsmanship, and fire.

5. Check Out the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds

The Roman Agora is similar to the Ancient Agora in that it was considered the central market of the town. However, the Roman Agora was the central public area during the Roman controlled era of Athens and was likely built around 11BC.

A highlight of the Roman Agora is the Tower of the Winds. The Tower of the Winds was originally constructed as a water clock to tell time, but was also used for weather forecasting.

6. Indulge on a Greek Food Tour

Greek food is world famous, and for good reason. There are so many must-try food items when travelling to Greece. The absolute best way to try Greek food is to join a food tour, such as this Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens .

The Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens has over 5,000 5 star reviews and will take you on a walking tour of Athens to try authentic Greek food from some of Athens best cafes, markets, and street food joints. Book this Athens Food Tour today.

👉 Click Here to Book the Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens

7. Is Athens Worth Visiting? Yes to see historical sites such as Hadrian’s Library

Located just outside of the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library was once the largest library in all of Athens. The library was built under the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132AD, and was used to store literary works, administrative documents, and was home to some of the philosophical schools.

8. Hike up Mount Lycabettus for Incredible Views

Standing 277m (909 ft) above sea level, Mount Lycabettus is the highest point in central Athens. At the top, you’ll find the church of Agios Georgios, a cafe serving lunch and dinner, and a viewing platform that offers incredible views of the city.

To reach the top of Mount Lycabettus you can either hike up or take the funicular cable car up to the top. If you choose to hike up, plan on around 30-90 minutes one way depending on your speed and starting point.

9. Ride Around Athens on an Electric Bike Tour

Looking to see all the sites Athens has to offer but have a short amount of time? I recommend checking out this tour as it will take you around to the top places in Athens within 2-3 hours!

On the tour, you’ll take an electric bike and follow your guide around Athens to learn all about top sites and areas of Athens, such as the Acropolis, Old Town of Plaka, Monastiraki, and much more.

I highly recommend booking this Electric Bike Tour in Athens through Viator. This tour has over 500+ positive reviews and also includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance! Tours run daily, and there are different options for start times.

👉 Click Here Book the Electric Bike Tour in Athens

10. Dive Into History at the National Archaeological Museum

For history buffs, Athens National Archaeological Museum is worth visiting when in Athens. This museum houses some of the most historically significant artifacts from Greece’s prehistory all the way through late antiquity.

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum in all of Greece. A big difference between this museum and the Acropolis Museum is that the Acropolis Museum is limited to artifacts found at the Acropolis excavation site.

11. Explore a Hidden Gem Neighborhood: Anafiotika

Located in the Plaka area, Anafiotika is a small scenic neighborhood with pedestrian only streets. Although it is located right next to the Acropolis, this small neighborhood is a hidden gem, undiscovered by most tourists. Anafiotika is the perfect place to wander around, sit at a cafe, and just enjoy.

12. Is Athens Worth Visiting? Yes to Enjoy the Nightlife in Psiri

The Psiri district is known for having lively cafe’s and bars and is a great spot for nightlife in Athens. On the weekends, you’ll find this area to be full of people going out and enjoying the night. Psiri is also a very artsy part of Athens, full of incredible street art and graffiti.

13. Visit the Monastiraki Square and Flea Market

Monastiraki Square is a large square in the center of Athens and is full of shops, bars, and cafes. Every Sunday, there is a large flea market that takes place in Monstiraki Square where you will find antiques and other unique miscellaneous items. Bargaining is a common practice here, so try to get some deals!

14. Enjoy a Drink at a Rooftop Bar with Views

The views of the Athens Acropolis are stunning. Enjoying a drink at one of Athens best rooftop bars will truly make you feel that Athens is worth visiting. There are several rooftop bar options in central Athens, but two well rated choices include 360 Cocktail bar and Thea Terrace.

15. Watch the Changing of the Guard

Every Sunday at 11am there is a Changing of the Guard Ceremony in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Solider off from Syntagma Square. The ceremony is performed by the Evzones (members of the presidential guard). The Sunday 11am Changing of the Guard is a special because the Evzones are dressed in the traditional white kilts.

There is also smaller changing of the Guard Ceremonies every day at the beginning of each hour, but they wear the normal winter or summer uniform.

16. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Solider

The Tomb of the Unknown Solider is a war memorial dedicated to Greek soldiers that died during war. Located just off from Syntagma Square, this is an important monument in Athens that is guarded by the members of the presidential guard.

17. Run an Olympic Lap at the Panathenaic Stadium

On April 6th in 1896, the first modern Olympic Games were held at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens. This historically significant site is definitely worth a visit for any sports or Olympics fan.

Although the ancient Olympics were first held in Olympia, Greece, the stadium in Athens is still very historically significant as it was build in 566 BC. The stadium is also the only stadium in the world to be built completely of marble.

18. Visit the Iconic Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a large, former colossal temple in Athens. The temple was dedicated to Zeus, the god of the sky and was seen as the father and protector in Greek Mythology. This temple took over 600 years to be built, with construction starting in the 6th century BC and not finishing until 131 AD.

19. Is Athens worth visiting? Yes if you are a cat person!

All around Athens, you will see cats roaming out and about. The locals take care of these cats, and you likely see food and water bowls around as well. Athenian cats are everywhere!

No worries if you are allergic, the cats tend to keep their distance unless you pet them or give them food.

20. Admire the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea

Located off the popular Ermou Street, the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea is a Byzantine church that was built in 1050AD. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of Athen’s most significant Byzantine edifices.

21. Check out the Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum has pieces of art and artifacts from Greek history, as well as artifacts and collections from cultures that influenced the development of Greek culture. The museum is very affordable to visit, costing only 9 euros for adult admission, and free admission on Thursdays.

22. Hit the Beach on the Athenian Rivera

One thing most people don’t realize is that Athens is nearby to some amazing beaches! There are over 30 beaches along the Athenian coastline, which makes many to choose from. One of the closest to Athens is Edem beach. This beach is easy to access by taking the tram to the Edem stop from central Athens.

23. Take a day trip from Athens

One of the best things to do in Athens is to take a day trip to see more of the amazing sites in Greece. The most popular day trip is to visit Delphi . Delphi is the site of the Temple of Apollo and was home to the famous Delphi Oracles.

✔️ Click Here to Book a Highly Rated Day Trip to Delphi

Another great day trip option from Athens is to soak up the Mediterranean sun on a boat tour. This Day Trip to goes to 3 small islands nearby Athens, and includes drinks and lunch. This is a great way to escape the heat if going to Athens in the summer.

✔️ Click Here to Book your All Day Cruise to 3 Islands with Food and Drinks

Only have a half-day? Another incredible day trip is to visit the Temple of Poseidon, which is perched along the Mediterranean. This is a great option as it is close to Athens and takes a few hours to visit. This Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon small group tour is a great option that includes transportation.

✔️ Click Here to Book a Half Day Tour to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Is Athens Worth Visiting? Best Time of Year to Visit Athens

Athens is worth visiting, but your experience can be better at certain times of year. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the most ideal, due to lower prices and more comfortable weather. On average, temps range from around 60-75F, which is great weather for sightseeing.

Summer is high season in Greece, and prices in Athens will be high. What else will be high in summer? THE TEMPERTURE. It gets very hot in Athens, especially in July and August with average temps between 73-90F. Athens also does not have a ton of shade, which makes walking around pretty warm.

You can also visit Athens in winter, and this is when you will find the least amounts of tourists and the lowest prices. However, it can get cold and even snow in Athens during winter.

Where to Stay: Elia Ermou Athens Hotel

Visiting Athens for a few days? I highly recommend staying at Elia Ermou Athens Hotel . Located in the city center, this hotel is perfect walking distance to Athens attractions, shops, and restaurants. The hotel is clean, modern, and is rated a 4.7/5 with over 1,000 Google reviews. The best part? There is amazing views of the Acropolis and a rooftop bar and restaurant! Click Here to Check Prices and Book Elia Ermou Athens Hotel

Getting to Athens

Most international travelers will get to Athens by flying into the Athens International Airport, located just outside the city. When arriving at the Athens International Airport, its best to schedule a transfer in to the city of Athens, as the only other option is a taxi.

I recommend using Welcome Pickups for your airport transfer from Athens Airport. We used this service personally and it was so convenient after a 10 hour flight! Welcome Pickups guarantees an English speaking driver, who will meet you by the baggage claim holding a sign with your name on it. It makes you feel like a VIP, and the best part is that it was actually Welcome Pickups was more affordable than a taxi .

✔️ Click Here to Book your Athens Airport Transfer with Welcome Pickups

Getting around Athens

Athens is a walkable city, especially if you are staying in a central location such as Plaka and venturing around to the main sites. We stayed in Plaka and walked everywhere – the only time we needed transport was to the airport.

There is also public transportation available in Athens, however as with any large city be extra cautious of pickpockets on public transport. Additionally, there are taxis available throughout the city. Keep in mind, Uber does not really exist in Greece, instead it is Uber Taxi (to connect you with a taxi) or you can use the Bolt app as well.

Do not rent a car for the city center of Athens. Parking is problematic and the driving in the city is chaotic and confusing. If you plan to visit places outside of Athens, spend a few days in Athens and then travel back to the airport to rent your car before heading to your next destination.

Where to Stay in Athens

I highly recommend staying in central Athens, as it is walking distance to all the major attractions. Staying near the Plaka district is ideal if its your first time in Athens, as it is a safe and charming part of the city.

Here are my best hotel recommendations – all in a central area and highly rated:

📍 Fun Budget Hostel: Athens Hub Hostel

📍 Mid-Range Hotel with Acropolis View/Jacuzzi Options: Elia Ermou Athens Hotel

📍 Mid-Range Hotel with Acropolis View Rooftop Bar: A for Athens Hotel

📍 5 Star Luxury Hotel: Hotel Grande Bretagne

Is Athens Safe?

According to the US Department of State website, Athens is a safe city to visit and travelers can exercise normal precautions. In our experience felt completely safe during our entire stay in Athens. Greek people are also incredibly friendly and helpful to tourists, so don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions if needed.

As with any large city, pickpocketing can be an issue here, especially in crowded tourist areas and on the metro. Keep close watch over your belongings, especially if you are in a crowded area.

There are also some common scams that take place in Athens. These scams are aimed at either distracting someone so they can be pickpocketed or making you feel pressured to giving someone money. The one we came across was a woman handing out roses, and then claiming you would need to pay. There are similar scams done with bracelets and other items. In this case, hand the item back or just say no firmly and walk away.

Is Athens Worth Visiting? If So, How Many Days Should I Spend in Athens?

Athens is the largest city in Greece, and is worth a visit. For first timers, its recommended to spend a minimum of 2-3 nights in Athens to see the major sites like the Athens Acropolis. However, spending 4-5 nights will allow you to experience more that the city has to offer and add in a day trip or 2!

In Conclusion: Is Athens Worth Visiting?

Yes, Athens is worth visiting. It is an incredible city that if full of vibrant culture, thousands of years of history, delicious food, and best of all- wonderful and friendly people .

Most people that visit other destinations in Greece, such as Santorini or the Greek Islands, will do so by way of the Athens airport. This makes stopping in Athens for a few nights very convenient, and it truly is a must visit place if you come to Greece.

Looking to Visit more of Greece?

Looking for more hidden gem places in Greece? Check out our guide to Meteora , a jaw-dropping destination in central Greece. If you want to visit all the hidden gems, check out this Main Land Greece Road Trip Itinerary .

If you decide to check out one of Greece’s famous islands, make sure to visit Santorini. Santorini is one of the most visited places in Greece, for its blue domed churches and white cave houses perched across a stunning caldera cliff. Check out this Ultimate Guide for Visiting Santorini on a Budget for all the best tips to visiting Santorini.

Amber is the owner and author of Get Lost in Wanderlust, a blog that helps travelers plan incredible trips across Europe from bucket list cities to charming hidden gems. She has a Bachelor's Degree in History and Psychology, and enjoys learning more about the culture and historical significance of each place she visits. When she isn't exploring Europe, she loves reading, writing, and planning her next adventure.

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2-Day Athens Itinerary

If you are only in Athens for a few days and wish to explore its top monuments, museums and neighborhoods, check out our 2-day Athens itinerary .

Since Greece is packed with picturesque places to discover, you will probably only want to spend a few days in its capital. This is why we have created this 48-hour itinerary of Athens .

We have written this circuit imagining you arrive in Athens on Friday afternoon and depart on Sunday evening . If you plan to visit the city another day of the week, we suggest you check the opening times of the various sights in case these vary.

Since the opening hours differ greatly between summer and winter, we have used the winter timetables, so you don't find any of the landmarks closed .

If you want to make the most of your time without getting too tired, you can explore the city on a tourist bus in Athens. You can purchase a ticket here:

Buy tickets to Athens Tourist Bus

Arrival day

Once you drop off your luggage at your hotel , we recommend you spend the rest of the evening going for a walk in Plaka and Monastiraki , the most charming and traditional areas in Athens .

The fastest way to arrive at your hotel from the airport, worry and hassle-free, is a convenient transfer service. Check out our transfer services for smooth travels.

With the last few hours of sunlight left, take advantage and go on a tour of Plaka and Monastiraki , two iconic areas in Athens .

The best starting point is Monastiraki Square , a plaza in the historic center of Athens and hub of Athenian life. From there, stroll down Ermou Street to Syntagma Square , which is home to the Hellenic Parliament. Then take Adrianou Street . The west of Adrianou is full of fantastic restaurants with views of the Acropolis, and the east part of the street is home to dozens of souvenir shops.

If you want to discover the city’s nightlife , we recommend two neighborhoods in downtown Athens: Thiseio , a traditional neighborhood with trendy bars to the west of Adrianou Street (climbing up the steps), and Psiri , considered the nightlife district of the capital with hundreds of bars, clubs and cafés.

If you prefer your first venture out into the city to be alongside a knowledgeable guide, don't miss out on this night tour through Plaka and Monastiraki .

On the first full day in Athens, we suggest you first visit the striking Acropolis , the world-famous complex located on a rocky hill . The best way to do this is to head to the lively Plaka district and wander up the steep and narrow streets of Anafiotika , a small and picturesque neighborhood. This district does not have many direction signs to the “upper city”, so you might have to ask the locals. For this visit, we recommend you get up early to avoid the crowds of tourists , and this way, you'll also make the most of your weekend in this fascinating and chaotic city.

To skip the lines and make your wait shorter, we recommend booking your tickets to the Acropolis in advance:

Skip-the-line Ticket to the Acropolis

The Acropolis is home to several striking ancient Greek monuments, including the majestic Parthenon, the large Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the beautifully preserved Temple of Athena Nike. Once you have explored all these sights, walk down the southern side of the outcrop to discover the Theatre of Dionysus , erected in the sixth century BC. It could seat up to 17,000 spectators.

If you want a comprehensive tour of the Acropolis, to make sure you don't miss a single inch, book a tour with one of our experienced guides to further enhance your experience.

Acropolis of Athens Guided Tour

You'll go around the hill of the Acropolis, pass by the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and arrive at Thiseio, the square that determines one of the ends of Adrianou Street. Taking this street you'll reach the Ancient Agora, the second most important sight of Classical Greece. The most important parts of the Ancient Agora are the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalus.

Continue by foot down Adrianou Street until you get to Hadrian’s Library , created in AD 132 and once a beautiful bibliotheca. Nowadays, there is practically nothing left of the ruins.

Very close to this landmark is the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds . This ancient spire once combined a sundial and water clock. In the sixth century, it was transformed into a church and for this reason, is magnificently preserved.

By this stage, it will probably be time for lunch. Monastiraki and Plaka are some of the best areas to taste the mouthwatering Greek cuisine. You will also find numerous fast-food joints.

After topping up your energy level, the next stop is the Acropolis Museum . From your restaurant, find your way back to Adrianou Street (head east) until the end of the boulevard . Advance on Vyronos Street, pass by the Theatre of Dionysus until you locate the museum.

You can purchase tickets to the Acropolis Museum here: Acropolis Museum Ticket

Once you tour the most-visited museum of Athens, we suggest you spend the rest of the afternoon meandering the streets of Athens to get a feel of the city. We recommend exploring Ermou Street from Monastiraki (walking back down Adrianou street) till you get to Syntagma Square .

Stadiou Street and Panepistimiou Street are two popular shopping streets that branch out of Syntagma Square. If you want to discover the city’s high-end boutiques , then explore Voukourestiou Street that leads to Kolonaki , the classiest neighborhood in Athens .

After a bit of shopping, head to Mount Lycabettus and have a drink in one of the numerous panoramic terraces . This hill is 300 meters above sea level and offers the best views of the capital. This attraction is extremely enjoyable both by day and by night, and you can either walk up or take the funicular.

The best areas to head to for dinner from Kolonaki  are Plaka and Monastiraki .

If you want to take one last stroll around the city, we recommend booking the Athens Night Tour .

The first stop of day two is the Hellenic Parliament , near Syntagma Square . You will see the Changing of the Guard in front of the Greek Parliament  at 11am .

After admiring this popular tourist ceremony take Panepistimiou Street until you get to Omonia Square . Panepistimiou is flanked by beautiful buildings like the National Library .

Turn off on Patision Street to the National Archaeological Museum , the second most important museum of Athens. The visit to this gallery is a must!

To avoid queues, you can buy a ticket here:

National Archaeological Museum of Athens with audio guide

At the exit of the museum, take the metro , a taxi or stroll to the next stop which is the Temple of Olympian Zeus , near the Acropolis metro station .

Then, continue down Leoforos Vasilissis Olgas until you get to the Panathenaic Stadium , where the first modern Olympic Games were celebrated. The audio tour is quite interesting and explains the history of this world-famous sports competition.

Next, head to the National Garden , a great place to rest and switch off from the busy streets of Athens. Take the northeast exit and you’ll find yourself in Syntagma Square .

If your flight departs in the afternoon, you probably won’t have time to do anything else. We recommend you find a restaurant in Syntagma Square and its surroundings .

Over 2 days in Athens?

If you are staying in Athens for over two days, we suggest you explore the charming natural port Piraeus , and other attractive museums like Benaki and the Museum of Cycladic Art . Kerameikos , an ancient cemetery is also worth exploring.

If you prefer to visit the neighbouring towns, Greece is packed with stunning areas. Check out these popular day trips from Athens during your stay:

Day Trip to Delphi

Day Trip to Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus

Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina

Day Trip to Meteora

Day Trip to Mykonos

11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When it comes to deciding where to go next, Greece is a usually a slam dunk. Whether it's a beachy island getaway you're after or an Athens (or perhaps Thessaloniki) city break that blends sightseeing by day with ouzo gulping by night, the mythic Mediterranean country ticks all the right boxes for classic holidays but wait -- there's more. Lots more.

Landing in Athens is the easy bit, but once you're on terra firma you'll find yourself immersed in both an epic history and some rather iconic landscapes, too. How you navigate this richness is largely up to you, but the more you know before you go, the more capably you can decode all those big fat Greek travel mysteries. Keep the following things in mind to help you steer clear of the cliches and make the most out of your experiences in Greece.

1. Don't just make the Acropolis in Athens your priority

Making the Acropolis the focus of a jaunt to Athens is like making a trip to Paris about visiting the Eiffel Tower -- so don't do it. Instead, do like the Athenians do and drink in views of the sacred rock from any number of rooftop bars and restaurants in the vicinity, or better yet wake up to a view of it from your hotel room . And the best views of Athens as a whole are actually from the top of Mount Lycavittos anyway (take the funicular in the Kolonaki neighborhood to the top).

Dodge the tourist crowds marching up to the Parthenon and instead inspect the arguably more evocative ruins at the foot of the Acropolis in the ancient agora area. I'd also suggest skipping the Acropolis Museum and diverting your cultural hours to the National Archaeological Museum across town. It's a bit fusty but still the best museum in Greece. Essential smaller museums include the Benaki Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art, both of which blend ancient artifacts with excellent contemporary exhibitions. If you fancy a Picasso or Van Gogh fix, the brand-new Goulandris museum is a must.

2. Don't just feast on gyro

I've seen this over and over (and over) again: tourists who enjoy a hearty international-style buffet breakfast at their hotel and then opt for a gyro or souvlaki platter for lunch and then again for dinner. Don't get me wrong, authentic Greek gyros are pretty scrumptious and at about three euros each are fiscally attractive dining options too. But Greek gastronomy is more diverse than that and experiencing at least some of it can be a highlight of your trip.

To savor a Greek breakfast staple you'll almost never find at a hotel buffet, try strapatsada, a delectable dish made with eggs (usually scrambled), feta cheese, fresh tomato sauce and a dash of olive oil. One of the best is served at the restaurant of the Acropolis Museum (you don't have to pay for museum admission to eat at the restaurant). For the best seafood, shun the touristy tavernas around the Plaka and head instead to Piraeus, where the seafood is generally cheaper, fresher and comes with sea views, too. Vegan restaurants are also taking off, particularly in Athens.

3. Find your nearest laiki

The spirit of ancient Greece lives on in the weekly laiki, or outdoor fruit and vegetable market that takes place rain or shine throughout the year on Fridays. A visit to a laiki is a great way to get an eyeful and taste of nature's bounty for which Greece is justly famous for. Every neighborhood in Athens has its own laiki and some are bigger and better than others. One of the best is in Pagrati, on Archimidous Street right behind the Panathenaic Stadium (the world's only stadium built entirely of marble). Besides organic produce you'll find plenty of traditional comestibles like extra-virgin olive oil, halva and honey for sale.

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

One of the greatest Greek myths is that the many islands are strictly for summertime escapes, but that's far from the case. True, many islands rock their Greek summer vibes best in the peak months of July and August (the months that also pull the most crowds), but swimming season heats up as early as May and in many places doesn't wind down until November. Little islands near Athens like Hydra and Spetses are worth visiting even in winter and big islands like Crete have plenty of cultural attractions and historic sites to keep you busy throughout the year.

5. Don't take a three-island day cruise

When you are in the Piraeus port you'll see many advertisements for three-island cruises that promise you a mini-odyssey to a trio of islands close to Athens. Generally these are Aegina, Hydra and Poros. Focus on one island instead. Packing three islands into a single day trip is something that Greeks themselves would never do, it diminishes both the quantity and quality of your time. If you are really into ancient ruins, spend time on Aegina. For dramatic scenery, Hydra's the spot. Among all the islands within an easy ferry journey from Athens/Piraeus, Poros easily qualifies as the quiet charmer where you could linger for hours over Greek coffees and delightful harbor views.

6. Greek islands aren't just for hitting the beach

Greece has some 6,000 islands, of which about 227 are inhabited. That represents a lot of geographical diversity. Some islands have gorgeous beaches -- think Mykonos, Kefalonia and Corfu -- while others have a mix of decent beaches and landscapes that offer up the possibility of more varied activities. Kalymnos is the place for rock climbing and bouldering, Paros is ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, Sifnos and Tinos (and to a certain extent Santorini) are much favored by foodies and so forth. The shoulder season, April to June and also October, is often ideal for these beyond-the-beach pursuits.

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

Two essential Santorini travel facts: the first is that yes, it's a geologically unique island and the second is that yes, you should probably also skip it. How dare I? Well, due to far too many cruise ships disgorging way too many people onto such a small place, the wisp of an island has degenerated into a sort of hyper-sanitized Selfie Island and really, how much fun is that? The views over the volcanic caldera are cool as are the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri but the beaches aren't great and the good hotels and restaurants tend to be overpriced.

So check it out if you must but make sure you avoid the months of June, July, August and now all of September too. Other Aegean islands beckon with their own brand of gorgeousness, whether that be breezy Andros, volcanic Milos and myriad others.

Read more: Which European countries don't use the euro currency and why?

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

Greeks celebrate Easter with a fervor most Europeans reserve for Christmas -- and the enthusiasm has a distinctly noncommercial flavor at that. The Greek Orthodox Church still holds sway over many aspects of contemporary Greek life and Easter week is when some of the more celebratory aspects really kick in, with all manner of feasts and public processions that begin on Palm Sunday and vary from location to location but that are particularly colorful on islands like Corfu.

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

Because in many respects it is. Starting with size: Crete is 160 miles from one end to the other and is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. That means it's difficult to see it all in a single take, nor should you try. The landscapes are stunningly varied and unlike the more stereotypical Greek island getaways the Cretan economy is not wholly dependent on tourism: historic cities like Heraklion and Chania also have a youthful vibrancy that's hard to resist.

There are numerous nonstop flights from Crete's two major airports in Heraklion and Chania in the peak summer season and year-round connections from Athens. From Athens/Piraeus there are also daily ferry departures, they typically leave around 9 p.m. and arrive in Crete at 6 a.m. While these ferries resemble small cruise ships with plenty of seating options (including cabins), a flight on Aegean will you get from Athens to Crete in just about an hour.

10. Remember the mainland

Greece is more than Athens and the islands. The region of which Athens is a part, Attica, is home to some of the most important sites in antiquity from Marathon to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon. South and east of the Greek capital, the Peloponnese offers a dramatically chiseled coastline and plenty of historical gems too, like the city of Nafplion -- the first capital of Greece -- and the remarkable fortress isle of Monemvasia. The northern city of Thessaloniki, named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, is worth a detour for its history, museums and excellent restaurants.

11. You needn't spend a fortune to have a blast in Mykonos

Stick around Greece for any length of time and you're bound to hear Greeks bemoan how Mykonos has become an enclave affordable only for the likes of Arab princes and their consorts (who may or may not include Lindsay Lohan). While there is some truth to that, don't let it put you off a visit because the cosmopolitan Mykonos vibe is something you won't find anywhere else. The small Cycladic island has some of the best beaches, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs in the Mediterranean. July and August are the months to avoid, but if you can manage to hit Mykonos in June or September, you'll probably have a great time and without necessarily breaking the bank.

Bottom line

Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody thinks they already know the place and to varying degrees maybe they do, but not unlike Madonna, there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. It's when you avoid insisting on the cliches -- you probably don't need a whole day to snap selfies at the Acropolis or an overpriced seafood lunch in the touristy center of Mykonos town -- that the colors of Greece really begin to reveal themselves. And if you can avoid those peak crowded months of July (especially the second half) and August you'll very likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall.

I spent 4 days in Athens, Greece. Here are 10 things that were worth it and 5 I'd skip next time.

• I recently spent four days in Athens, Greece, while traveling around Europe . 
• Stumbling upon the National Garden was a great treat, and I loved learning about the Acropolis. 
• On the other hand, I'm not sure the Roman Agora or Hadrian's Library are worth a visit . 

In October, I traveled to Athens, Greece , for the first time since I was 18 months old. 

I spent four days exploring some of the city's amazing landmarks and sites. But even though I didn't pay for all of the attractions — because some are free for EU citizens 25 and under — there are a few I wouldn't spend time on again. 

The Greek city just made Delta Air Line's list of most-searched summer destinations for 2024, so if you're currently planning a trip, here's everything that was worth the time and money and the few things I'd skip on my next trip.

I was glad I happened upon Athens National Garden.

I happened upon the National Garden kind of by accident when I was looking for some green space to run in. It's completely free and perfect for a walk, jog, or run.

The space is very peaceful and also has ponds with lots of turtles. I ended up going back a few days later to sit and read in the shade.

The Acropolis is definitely worth it, especially in the morning.

The Acropolis, which I'd consider the main tourist attraction in Athens, is a must-visit.

The citadel contains several ancient buildings, most notably the Parthenon. I was told to start waiting in line around 7:30 a.m. (it opens at 8), and it was well worth the time and effort.

It got busy — and hot — really quickly. I couldn't imagine going any later, and I ended up being able to take a nap afterward anyway. 

I wasn't too sure about Mount Lycabettus, but the views won me over.

I planned to go to Mount Lycabettus (the highest point in Athens) for sunset one night. I thought I'd allotted enough time, but everyone seemed to have the same idea since there was a huge line when I arrived.

Truthfully, I was a bit disappointed by the tram ride, and when I got to the top, I was overwhelmed by how many people there were. But the view made it worth it.

I ended up staying for dinner and had a delicious meal of Greek salad , moussaka, and white wine for about $16.

I'm so glad I paid to run along the track at Panathenaic Stadium.

The stadium is cool on its own — it dates back to 600 BC and is the only marble stadium in the world. But I went early in the morning, during the designated running hours of 7:30 to 9 a.m., and got to run around the track.

It's only about $10 to enter (I paid the student price of $5), and it was one of my favorite things I did on the trip.

Kerameikos Archaeological Site is one of the coolest cemeteries I've ever seen.

I had pretty low expectations going in having seen my fair share of cemeteries , but I was pleasantly surprised by this one.

The tombstones were pillar-shaped, and there were great views of the Parthenon.

If you're doing the Acropolis, make sure to swing through Plaka afterward.

It's worth walking around the neighborhood surrounding the Acropolis.

There are great taverns with traditional Greek food and places to buy all the souvenirs your heart desires. I really enjoyed wandering around and exploring some of the picturesque side streets.

Even after seeing the real deal, I got a lot out of the Acropolis Museum.

I'm not usually a big museum person, but the Acropolis Museum is definitely worth a visit.

I went after I'd already seen the landmark, and it gave me good context. It houses many artifacts that were excavated from the site, and beneath the museum is an in-progress excavation of ancient Athens.

Areopagus Hill provided stunning views for free.

Behind the Acropolis is a prominent rock outcropping. It can be a slippery and steep walk up, but the views of the Acropolis and the surrounding area are breathtaking.

Entrance to the hill and its surrounding park is also completely free.

I could feel the history at the Ancient Agora of Athens.

The Athenian Agora is one of the best-known examples of a traditional Greek meeting place. It had great views of the Acropolis and was beautifully adorned with trees and other ruins.

I was especially impressed by how well the Temple of Hephaestus was preserved. There's also a museum, and the second floor has a nice balcony where you can look out over the agora

I'm glad I swung by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Many of the attractions in Athens date back centuries, but the tomb is much more contemporary.

Dedicated to Greek soldiers killed in war, the tomb itself is visually quite simple. But there are guards that stand in traditional garb, which reminded me of Buckingham Palace .

It's also pretty central — right next to the National Garden — so I didn't have to go out of the way to see it.

Next time, I'd skip Monastiraki Flea Market and shop in Plaka instead.

I was excited to go to a flea market but was quite disappointed to find that this one didn't sell anything much different than the rows of stores in Plaka.

I will say that the square near the market had good views of the Parthenon, but I was able to see similar angles from other places in the city. 

After seeing the Athenian Agora, I'd skip the Roman Agora on future trips.

In contrast to the Athenian Agora, the Roman version wasn't much to write home about.

The gate at the front is kind of cool, but I think could just look from the outside instead of wasting time going in. 

Hadrian's Library didn't wow me.

I didn't find the "library" all that special.

The ruin isn't really a building, just pillars. And like the Roman Agora, you could easily just peek through the gates to get a good sense of the place.

I wanted to love the Temple of Zeus, but I was a little underwhelmed.

I was excited to see a temple devoted to the King of the Gods, but it was kind of disappointing.

To be fair, the temple was under construction when I went. But I felt that there wasn't a ton to look at regardless.

The Lyceum of Aristotle isn't all that exciting and it's far from everything else.

The original lyceum was destroyed. All that's left of it is a few ruins that were discovered about 30 years ago.

It's relatively new since it wasn't opened to the public until 2009, but I felt like it wasn't worth the walk since it was far from most of the other landmarks .

This story was originally published on November 12, 2023, and most recently updated on May 1, 2024. 

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10 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit Athens At Least Once

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Search your next destination..., ☞ table of contents:, the museums, the archaeological sites, the surprises, the islands, the markets, it’s affordable, the nightlife.

W ondering whether or not you should visit Athens? Here’s a list of 10 reasons why Athens should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Athens has and always will have a special place in my heart. And I believe I couldn’t possibly have had the full Greek experience without spending time here. I want to share with you some of the reasons why I love Athens and why you have to visit Athens at least once. While it’s the capital of Greece and its largest city, it’s also so much more.

Historically it lies at the very heart of Greece as it’s known for being at the forefront of early civilisation, labelled as the birthplace of democracy and home to some of the most famous philosophers. Even today the cities thrumming pulse exudes an essence of importance that never fails to transport you back in time. The novelty of being constantly immersed in a city with so much character never really wears off, and in the end it began to feel like home.

☞ Related: 2 Days In Athens The Way A Local Would Do It

Athens, having been continuously inhabited for at least 3,000 years, has a wealth of history. Many of the ideas that exist today in Western society originated in this city. Whether it be philosophical ideas or the foundation of democracy, the importance of these contributions doesn’t diminish with age. While visiting Athens, you will learn amazing things and be humbled by the places where such monumental things have happened.

Going hand in hand with history, the museums in Athens are the perfect way to help piece together all the facts that you learn while visiting. Here you are truly spoiled for choice, with a huge number of museums in the city centre alone. You just need to decide which ones you’d like to visit!

☞ Related: 4 Most Important Museums In Athens You Need To See For Yourself

As you probably know Athens is home to many important and historic archaeological sites. Their presence and preservation is something that makes the city incredibly special. Obviously the Acropolis is a defining feature and over a million people visit this site alone annually, but there are many other sites that deserve your attention. They are clustered within walking distance around the city, and will often be a lot less crowded.

☞ Related : 10 Most Important Ancient Sites In Athens You Should Not Miss

Many parts of Athens often have an unassuming exterior. While the buildings may be dated and worn, it by no means alludes to a dull interior. The narrow and sprawling alleyways of the city can lead you to the most unexpected and pleasant of surprises. Numerous times I’ve stumbled upon some of the quirkiest bars or cafes that only have a discreet doorway for their entrance, and if I wasn’t paying attention I might not even have noticed them. In Athens there are constantly things to explore, and you’ll find something new and exciting every single day, no matter the length of your stay.

☞Related : A Walking Guide For The Best Monuments In Athens

I know this isn’t Athens as such, but the capital is very close to the port in Piraeus . Just a 30 minute drive out of the city, this is the biggest port in Greece, and ferries run frequently to many gorgeous island destinations. A stay in Athens leaves you situated in the perfect central location; you get the best of both worlds in that you can experience some of the mainland but also see the islands. This proximity is always good when you only have a limited number of days on holiday. So, while it is possible to fly straight to Santorini or Mykonos , why not consider visiting Athens first?!

☞ Related: Your Master Guide To All Greek Islands And How To Pick One

Situated right on the southern edge of Greece’s capital is the Athens Riviera, a stretch of coast that has many private and public beaches. So, if you are unable to visit the islands, there are plenty of beaches that you can explore close to the city. Vouliagmeni is an example of one such destination and is only 25 km out of Athens. This coastal suburb has plenty of beaches to choose from. Lake Vouliagmeni is also close by and is a lake that is situated over a natural thermal spring. The high concentration of salts and minerals offer a number of therapeutic benefits that have been recognized since antiquity.

☞ Related: To find out more about Lake Vouliagmeni click here

The markets will give you a taste of real Athenian culture. There are many markets in Athens and here you’ll often get chatting to stall owners, whose friendly curiosity will hold you for a while longer than you expected. You’ll learn about the products and their origin and meaning all while meeting and seeing everyday people about their daily tasks. If you want a really authentic Greek market experience, make sure you visit Piraeus! Aside from the cultural aspect, often when you leave a country after a holiday you want to take a little something home with you that can be a reminder of your journey. Or perhaps you want to share something with those loved ones that missed out. For me it was both, and the markets in Athens provided some of the best places to find something special.

☞ Related: 10 Unforgettable Markets You Need To Visit In Athens

Like anywhere, it depends how you choose to travel as to whether or not things are expensive . But should you require, Athens can be incredibly kind on your wallet. Sadly, the Greek people suffered immensely during the financial crisis, something that Greece is still recovering from today. However, for a tourist this means two things: firstly, by traveling you are contributing back to the Greek economy and secondly, prices are in general a lot more affordable than most other destinations in Europe. While the prices can be massively inflated on the islands if you’re visiting during peak season, Athens remains more consistent. Museum entry fees are minimal, eating out in restaurants won’t break the bank and I can guarantee you will always find a gyros for €2.50!

☞ Related: 6 Greek Street Food Items You Can Try That Won’t Kill Your Budget

Nothing says summer like a road trip , and Athens is in the perfect location for you to take a drive to visit some of the other popular destinations around Greece. If you have the time these destinations are close by and definitely worth a look.

• Cape Sounion is the southernmost point of the Athens Riviera and only 70 km out of the city. It will take just over an hour to get here. If you don’t have access to a vehicle there are also plenty of companies that run day trips. Here you will find a multitude of beaches and plenty of tavernas and bars to head to after a day of swimming and sun. Perched on the hill overlooking the sea is the Temple of Poseidon, made all the more stunning with the blue Aegean as a backdrop. Whether you view the temple from land or while swimming in the surrounding coves, the Sounion cape is worth a trip.
• Delphi is an incredibly important destination for travellers and for Greeks themselves. More than just a picturesque mountain village, Delphi is home to the Sanctuary of Apollo, considered one of Greece’s most important historical sites. Delphi is located 180 km northwest of Athens and a road trip here will take you just over 2 hours.

☞ Related: Delphi Magic: An Adventure To The Breathtaking Sanctuary Of Apollo

In Athens the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down , and in true Greek style things generally start to pick up later in the evening. Unlike many European countries, at 9pm the night is only just beginning. Restaurants will start to fill up as people come to have dinner or a drink with friends. This bustling evening energy is such an exciting change for those not accustomed to it. So, after dark you’ll find plenty to do in the city that never seems to sleep. Athens also has a large number of bars and nightclubs that can cater to everyone’s taste.

• Athens has stolen the hearts of many. Will you let it steal yours? Let us know what the most compelling thing on this list. Are you going to visit Athens this year?

*Disclaimer: This page includes affiliate links. If you decide to book something through one of them, I might get a little bonus, but it won't cost you anything extra.*

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

Athens , the cradle of democracy and the foundation of Western civilization, is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Europe. Home to the iconic Acropolis, with its hilltop of millennia-old structures and ruins, Athens is one of the most-visited destinations on the continent.

This bustling Greek capital has a slew of great neighborhoods to explore, each one with its own distinct flavor and character.

While I don’t love Athens, the more time I spend here, the more I warm up to it. It’s huge, with a lot to offer (no matter your interest or budget).

To help you make the most of your trip (and save both time and money), here is where to stay in Athens. There’s a lot of neighborhoods to choose from so I’m going to highlight the best ones for travelers.

  For more detail, here’s a breakdown of each neighborhood in Athens, with suggested accommodations for each:

Athens Neighborhood Overview

• Where to Stay for Sightseeing
• Where to Stay for Nightlife
• Where to Stay for Street Art
• Where to Stay for Families

Where to Stay for Sightseeing: Plaka

Best Places to Stay in Plaka

• BUDGET : Student & Travellers Inn – This hostel smack-dab in the middle of Plaka is your classic backpacker hostel, with 4-8-bed dorms and its own bar for meeting people. The dorms are basic but comfy, and it’s the most affordable place to stay in the area.
• MIDRANGE : Athens Center Square Hotel – True to its name, this is in the center of absolutely everything, with great views of the Acropolis from many rooms, as well as the rooftop terrace. Rooms have flat-screen TVs and air conditioning, and a daily buffet breakfast included in the room rate.
• LUXURY : Plaka Hotel – Comfortable and friendly, the Plaka Hotel is in the heart of the neighborhood. Rooms boast flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and balconies with stellar views. There’s also a complimentary American-style buffet breakfast.

Where to Stay for Nightlife: Psyrri

Best Places to Stay in Psyrri

• BUDGET : Pella Inn Hostel – Just a few minutes’ stroll from the Monastiraki metro station, Pella has private rooms with and without a private bathroom. Rooms have lockers, and some even have balconies. There are female-only dorms too.
• MIDRANGE : Athensred – This property has all the perks of a midrange hotel: a nice location near lots of fun bars and restaurants, free Wi-Fi, rooms with large flat-screen TVs, and friendly service.
• LUXURY : Lotus Inn – The spacious rooms of the Lotus Inn are bedecked with hardwood floors, plus-sized TVs, and upscale bath products. Some have balconies with views. There’s a hot tub on the premises too, in case you really need to relax after a day of exploring.

Where to Stay for Street Art: Exarcheia

Best Places to Stay in Exarcheia

• BUDGET : Nubian Hostel Athens – With murals and artwork in every room, this hostel fits right in with the neighborhood’s artsy vibe. There are mixed and female-only dorms, as well as private rooms, common areas, and a backyard patio. There’s also daily free breakfast and a free happy hour with wine every night.
• MIDRANGE : Dryades & Orion Hotel – Hugging a hilly park, this chill hotel has rooms with views of the Acropolis. Plus, it has a lovely roof garden in which to watch the sunset while sipping a glass of wine.
• LUXURY : Colors Hotel Athens – With spacious rooms (that include desks), Colors offers bright, cheery accommodations with free Wi-Fi, rainmaker showers, cozy bathrobes, and a tasty breakfast.

Where to Stay for Families: Kolonaki

Best Places to Stay in Kolonaki

• BUDGET : Greek Gastronomy Center Apartments – Don’t let the name fool you. Or get you too hungry. This multiroom property offers comfortable private rooms and dorms for budget travelers. Some rooms have kitchenettes.
• MIDRANGE : Coco-Mat Hotel – Rooms in this design-friendly spot in the heart of Kolonaki are equipped with TVs with international channels, free and fast Wi-Fi, coffee machines, and upscale bath products. It’s located just steps away from great restaurants and bars too.
• LUXURY : St. George Lycabettus – The ultra-spacious rooms here are stylish and comfortable. Many have balconies; some boast panoramic views of the Acropolis. Rooms and in-room bathrooms are accented with marble; the rooms also have AC, minibars, and super-fast Wi-Fi.

Athens may be a bit grittier than other European capitals, but the city is bursting at the seams with delicious food, ancient history, and affordable activities. While Plaka and Psyrri may be my personal favorite districts to stay in, the mix of vibrant, eclectic, and fun neighborhoods ensures that no matter where you choose to stay in Athens, you’ll have an amazing time!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Greece: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld , as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com , as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Want More Information on Greece? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Greece for even more planning tips!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

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11 Best Hotels in Athens

These hotels offer incredible views, fantastic dining, and unforgettable Greek culinary experiences.

King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

More than 23 million people arrived in Greece between January and October 2023. Some 6 million of these people landed at the Athens International Airport, showing a 28.4 percent year-over-year growth in the country's tourism. Yes, it was a record year for Athens, but really, the capital city has always been a travel favorite thanks to its fantastic historical sites, its drool-worthy food, and, of course, its hospitality — especially at its world-class hotels.

"Athens is a classic and timeless destination that offers visitors everything from the ancient culture to coastal beaches and a lively metropolitan experience," said Liam Dunch, the Europe product manager for tour operator Abercrombie & Kent . "As the birthplace of democracy and one of the world's ancient capitals, the history is rich, and there is a tremendous amount to learn about Greek civilization and mythology."

It's a spot I've grown more in love with after every visit. As a Greek American, I have a special connection to my ancestral home, so much so that I've made it my mission to return every year to discover something new — and share it with all of you. (Just check out my take on how to spend a perfect day in Athens here .)

Ready to plan a trip and see it all for yourself? Keep reading to discover the best hotels in Athens, including views of the Acropolis and the Mediterranean Sea.

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

Ken Seet / Four Seasons

Also available to book at Booking.com

The hotel offers the perfect balance of solitude and city access.

It’s located about a 30-minute drive from the center of the city.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens was named the number one hotel in Athens by Travel + Leisure readers in the 2023 World's Best Awards thanks in large part to its 75 pristine private acres, giving guests total privacy while still being just a short drive away from the city’s best attractions. Here, guests can indulge in the quiet side of the city by sitting on the water’s edge, taking a private boat tour, or lounging by their private pool by booking a sea-view terrace suite. When guests are ready to head into central Athens, they can do so with a private tour guide who can help them see places like the Acropolis from the eyes of a local.

The Details:

• Nearby Attractions: Astir Beach and Vouliagmeni Lake
• Neighborhood: Vouliagmeni, Athens Riviera
• Distance From Airport: 15 miles from Athens International Airport
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• WiFi: Included
• Parking: Valet parking available
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting around $1,500 per night

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

The hotel offers unparalleled views of the Acropolis.

Given its prestigious location, prices can be a bit high for those on a budget.

The Hotel Grande Bretagne was named the number two hotel in Athens by T+L readers in the 2023 World's Best Awards , with readers calling out its fascinating history (it opened its doors way back in 1874) and its utterly awe-inspiring views. The hotel is pure luxury from corner to corner, from its opulent marble lobby to its rooms with gold leaf finishings, deep soaking tubs, and plush furnishing you may be hard-pressed to want to get off of. But, the city beckons right outside the window, with the Acropolis just a short walk away. Readers aren’t the only ones who feel this way.

“My all-time favorite is the Grande Bretagne, a landmark of Athens right at the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . "From its roof-top restaurant to the elegance of its lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Every guest must book at least one dinner at the hotel's GB Roof Garden Restaurant. Here, guests can dine on authentic Greek cuisine while looking out at the Acropolis, lit up every night for your viewing pleasure. 

• Nearby Attractions: Syntagma Square, Acropolis, and Plaka
• Neighborhood: Syntagma, central Athens
• Distance From Airport: About 20 miles from Athens International Airport
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $721 per night

King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Also available to book at Expedia.com

The hotel is filled with elegant touches and sweeping city views.

Standard rooms are about 258 square feet, which can feel a bit small to some guests.

The King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is another historic gem in the heart of Athens. And it’s another T+L reader favorite, coming in third in the 2023 World's Best Awards . The hotel is home to meticulously refined rooms and suites, which all come with luxury bedding and oversized windows so guests can drink in the city views — though the best room in the hotel is most certainly its penthouse suite, which comes with a private pool that overlooks the Acropolis.

• Nearby Attractions: Parliament Building, National Garden, and Acropolis
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $550 per night

Xenodocheio Milos (It List, 2023)

Vangelis Pateraks / Xenodocheio Milos

The food at the Xenodocheio Milos is some of the best in the city.

The hotel’s boutique size means fewer amenities and common spaces to hang out in.

Food-loving travelers will find no better accommodation in Athens than the Xenodocheio Milos, a hotel that made its way onto T+L’s 2023 It List . The boutique hotel, located across from the old parliament building, centers itself around its world-class dining, an extension of the Milos restaurant philosophy. Focusing on fresh ingredients and classic Greek dishes, you'll want to have every meal right here. Once you're full, head to your room, which offers minimalistic charm — and if you're somehow still feeling peckish, open the minibar to find Greek-inspired snacks.

• Nearby Attractions: Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, and Kolonaki Square
• Neighborhood: Kolonaki, central Athens
• Parking: Only off-site parking
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $383 per night

Gatsby Athens

Gatsby Athens Hotel

The hotel’s art deco vibes and colorful decor bring a true sense of joy.

The hotel’s lively atmosphere and central location means it can get noisy from time to time.

Find a little glitz, glamour, and fun at the Gatsby Athens, a boutique hotel outside the Plaka neighborhood. Rooms here are seductively cool, with all-white bedding offset by soft pastel furnishings and tiny pops of color on the walls. Guests looking for a funky touch can book the Cool Corner suite with a soaking tub in the middle of the room. The hotel is undoubtedly a place to socialize, especially at the Gatsby Bar, located on the lower level, or at Cloud 9, its rooftop bar ideal for a nighttime cocktail and a view.

• Nearby Attractions: Monastiraki Flea Market, Ancient Agora, and Acropolis
• Neighborhood: Monastiraki, central Athens
• Parking: Only public parking
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $237 per night

The hotel offers luxurious touches at every turn.

The hotel’s avant-garde design and high-end amenities mean the hotel may not be the best fit for travelers with small children.

The Dolli may be yet another hotel located in the midst of the city, but it’s entirely possible for guests to feel a world away within its walls. The hotel’s chic and clean aesthetic creates an elevated atmosphere, with sculptures in every corner and fine art adorning all the walls, including in its oversized suites. Guests also have their pick of fabulous dining options, including a rooftop restaurant looking out onto the Parthenon, and Le Bar Secret, a library bar with an expansive cocktail menu.

• Nearby Attractions: Acropolis Museum, Plaka, and Roman Agora
• Neighborhood: Plaka, central Athens
• Distance From Airport: About 21 miles from Athens International Airport
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $1,002 per night

The Modernist Athens

The Modernist offers a unique design experience you won’t find anywhere else in Athens.

Its Danish design doesn’t scream “Greek” if that’s the kind of vibe you’re after.

The Modernist Athens is a minimalist dream come true. The hotel, located in the Kolonaki neighborhood, comes with a simple aesthetic that allows guests to focus all their attention on the view outside instead. Rooms are decked out in natural wood and black furnishings to keep things simple, while its rooftop terrace overlooks a lush green garden outside. Head up to the roof for a sunset cocktail and look off in the distance straight to, you guessed it, the Acropolis.

• Nearby Attractions: National Gallery, Mount Lycabettus, and Kolonaki Square
• Parking: Private parking available for an additional fee
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $213 per night

Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection

Academias Hotel

Academias is the perfect mix of business and pleasure hotels.

Its sleek decor is distinctly Greek in common spaces, but the rooms can feel slightly stock.

The Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection, is a philosophically inspired space that is a tribute to some of Greece’s most brilliant academics throughout history. This includes the Plato Bar and Lounge, where guests can get a glass of Greek wine, and the Symposium restaurant, named after Plato’s work of the same name, which serves Mediterranean-style breakfasts. The only departure from the theme is the hotel’s NYX Rooftop Japanese Fusion Bar, where guests can have dinner and drinks long into the night.

• Nearby Attractions : Academy of Athens, National Library, and Kolonaki
• Parking: Valet parking
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $655 per night

The Ergon House Hotel

Ergon House Hotel

The Ergon House is tailor-made for food lovers thanks to its in-house market.

The hotel’s focus on food means it has fewer other amenities than other luxury hotels in the area.

The Ergon House Hotel is the perfect home away from home for those who believe food is an integral part of the travel experience. It combines the comforts of luxury accommodation with the excitement of an Athenian food market, all under one roof. Inside the hotel, guests can peruse its market and restaurant that showcases the best local produce and cuisine, a perk Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, adores. “The Ergon House Hotel is one of my favorites, boasting top-tier accommodations, a great cafe for a frappe, and a store to pick up tinned goods, bread, and dips,” she shared. The rooms are equally alluring, made with minimalistic designs but still with all the right high-end touches to make a stay feel special.

• Nearby Attractions: Acropolis, Monastiraki Square, and Ermou Street
• Distance From Airport: About 27 miles from Athens International Airport
• Parking: Public parking available nearby
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $357 per night

One&Only Aesthesis

One&Only Aesthesis 

The One&Only Aesthesis marries a Riviera getaway with a city trip in one.

Its location provides fantastic ocean views, but it is a bit of a drive to get to the city center.

One&Only Aesthesis sits on the edge of the Athenian Riviera, giving guests a sublime view from every angle. The resort, which opened in late 2023 , is an incredibly detailed space from entrance to exit. Here, guests can unwind in beachside bungalows offering direct water access, chic villas with private pools, and the bright and airy garden and ocean-view rooms with standalone tubs for the perfect added touch. The dining at the One&Only Aesthesis is also top-notch, thanks to menus created by world-class chefs Ettore Botrini and Paco Morales.

• Nearby Attractions: Glyfada Beach, Vouliagmeni Lake, and Astir Marina
• Neighborhood: Glyfada, Athens Riviera
• Distance From Airport: About 14 miles from Athens International Airport
• Parking: On-site parking available
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $1,756 per night

Shila feels like you’re opening the door to your own private home in Athens.

Due to its boutique nature and unique design elements, Shila offers a profoundly intimate experience but not as many amenities as larger hotel properties.

Shila stands out in the crowd in Athens thanks to its personalized ambiance. Every room has distinct decor elements, though all offer the perfect Bohemian feel. Each suite is more creative than the last, and they are all ideal for everyone, from solo travelers to couples and even small groups and families, as they can sleep up to four guests in each. There are also charming communal spaces, including a rooftop garden and library lounge.

• Nearby Attractions: National Archaeological Museum, Mount Lycabettus, and Exarchia
• Neighborhood: Exarchia, central Athens
• Accessibility: Limited accessibility available
• Parking: Self-service public parking
• Rates: Rates vary by season, but we found rooms starting at $334 per night

Know Before You Go

• Decide how important location is to you: The hotels and resorts on this list are sprinkled across the city and down onto the coastline. Before you book, consider what you’d prefer — beachside access or city views. 
• Remember the high season: Greece's high season runs over June, July, and August. This is when destinations tend to get rather crowded and when the city sees its highest temperatures of the year. If you hope to have a more personal experience, try the shoulder seasons from May to mid-June and September through October.
• Think about any amenities you can’t live without: Hotels in Athens range from charming boutique spots to over-the-top resorts. Before you book, consider what amenities (like a spa, on-site restaurants, or a gym) you need to have a spectacular stay.

How We Chose These Hotels

Picking the best of the best hotels in Athens is a challenging feat. The city is full of A-list properties for guests to explore. To help whittle down the choices, we considered hotels that have earned a spot in our annual World's Best awards, chosen by the esteemed readers of T+L, and hotels that have made our editor-led It List.

In addition, the author of this article, Stacey Leasca , contributed her expertise choices. Leasca, who is proudly Greek American, has visited Athens numerous times for both personal and professional travel and also highlighted the city in her T+L show, “ Well Spent .” She consulted other expert sources, seeking out hotels with high-quality visitor reviews, and chose hotels that would provide readers with varied choices regarding their personal tastes, needs, and wants for a vacation in Athens. Leasca has written about countless hotel and travel experience stories in her nearly decade of travel writing. And, with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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Wealth of Geek$

10 things you must do on your next visit to Athens, Greece

Posted: October 4, 2023 | Last updated: October 4, 2023

Athens is located in the Peloponnese peninsula, and it is the capital city of Greece. It is known as the birthplace of democracy, and many historical figures, such as Aristotle and Socrates, have traversed its cobbled streets. Apart from being historic, it is also beautiful at any time of the year. To help you navigate the city, we have devised a list of ten of the best things to do in Athens, Greece.

1. Climb The Acropolis

The Acropolis is the most famous archeological site in Athens. It is a citadel located on a hill in the center of Athens. It contains several famous ancient buildings such as The Parthenon and The Temple of Athena.

2. Visit The Acropolis Museum

While you are in the area, to get the full experience of how the Acropolis looked in the past, make sure to visit the Acropolis Museum. It contains all the artifacts recovered from the Acropolis site.

3. Walk Through The Streets of Plaka

Located on the other side of the Acropolis is Plaka. It is a small neighborhood covered in cobblestone streets with beautiful cafés and jewelry shops. It looks out of this world, and it feels like you are stuck in the early 1900s, far away from mobile phones and the fast living style of today. The thick shade provided by its many trees makes it a perfect place to have a coffee break.

4. Explore Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is the very center of Athens . It is a place where all social gatherings and concerts happen. You can see The Old Royal Palace in the Syntagma square, which serves as the Greek Parliament building. Its bright yellow color and neoclassical building style are very distinctive. The building itself was built for King Otto to celebrate Athens becoming the new capital of Greece.

The square itself was named after the first Greek constitution, and thus the meaning Syntagma Square which in Greek means The Constitution Square.

5. See The Guards Change at The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier

Located across Syntagma Square, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to all Greek soldiers who died in World War 1. It is guarded twenty-four hours a day by soldiers called Evzones. The Evzones are part of the Presidential Guard and change every hour. It is quite an attraction since they have a special choreography that they perform every time the change is due.

6. Get Lost in The Monastiraki Square

In our opinion, Monastiraki is one of the most beautiful squares in Athens. It is named Monastiraki due to a church in the middle of the square. The Church of Pantanassa was built in the 10th century, and after some time, the locals started calling it “Monastiraki,” which means little church.

The church is not the only thing that makes this part of Athens beautiful. The narrow cobblestone streets leading to the square give the feeling of being somewhere far from home. The streets are filled with pastry shops, tavernas, and souvenir shops.

There is one downside to mention. The streets are filled with people who offer you bracelets or some other forms of hand-woven jewelry for free, saying it is a gift from them and that you don’t need to pay. However, from the moment they put the piece on you, they start asking for money and feign ignorance of any previous conversation. It is advisable to just return the “gift” they give you and continue on your way.

7. Try The Famous Pita Gyro

A pita gyro is a traditional Greek food , and it can be found on every corner. It consists of shredded meat, usually pork, served with pita bread and fresh vegetables. Oh, and of course, don’t forget the tzaziki sauce, made from Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, garlic, and dill.

8. Taste Local Spirits

Greece is famous for its alcohol, and there are a variety of drinks to choose from if you want to get a buzz. The first on the list is Ouzo, a high-proof drink made from fermented grape skins. The drink is usually served before the meal, acting as an aperitif. After fermentation, the mix is added to anise and other herbs to make the distinct Ouzo flavor. It is a staple in Greek culture.

Rakii is also a very high-proof alcoholic drink made from grapes that didn’t make a cut for wine production. It is fermented for several weeks until all of the sugar in the grapes becomes alcohol. Unlike Ouzo which is popular in Greek culture only, Rakii is famous across the Balkan and Middle East as every country has the same name for it, and it is produced in the same way.

Metaxa is a highly concentrated drink made from fermented red wine. The wine is left to sit for a couple of years and must reach a particular oxidation part to be considered a Metaxa. It is best described as a crossover of wine and whiskey.

9. Check Out A for Athens

A for Athens is the best cocktail bar/cafe in Athens. To understand why, you just have to go there. The drinks and food are fine, but the view separates it from every other bar in Athens. A for Athens is located on top of a building, and once you get on the rooftop, you look directly at the Acropolis. No words can sum up that level of beauty until you see it for yourself. 

10. Take a Trip to The Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is technically not in Athens itself but rather on the outskirts of town. It is a canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with The Ionian Sea, and it has been in the making since AD 1. When we say in the making, we mean they tried to make it but failed many times. Finally, in 1893, it was finished. The canal is a very creepy place. It is very deep and rather narrow, so you feel impending doom when you stand on that tiny suspension bridge while a harrowing wind tries to push you over the edge, and the ships below seem like little remote-controlled toys. 

Things To Do in Athens Greece

There are many other great places to see, so don’t hesitate to ask any local to point you where you should go, as they are very friendly and helpful. Once you get there, pick an orange from the orange trees planted all over Athens or ride their amazing subway system. It is the best mode of transportation in such a big city! Enjoy your trip !

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What's the best state for you », europe's cybersecurity chief says disruptive attacks have doubled in 2024, sees russia behind many.

The top European Union cybersecurity official says that disruptive digital attacks have doubled in the 27-member bloc in recent months and election-related services are also being targeted

Europe's Cybersecurity Chief Says Disruptive Attacks Have Doubled in 2024, Sees Russia Behind Many

Petros Giannakouris

The executive director of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity, ENISA, Juhan Lepassaar, speaks during an interview with the Associated Press in Athens, Greece, Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Lepassaar said the Athens-based agency had recorded a sharp rise in cybersecurity incidents in 2024. National and multinational cybersecurity agencies have stepped up activities and exercises globally ahead of elections in the European Union, the United States and other countries (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris)

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Disruptive digital attacks , many linked to Russian-backed groups, have doubled in the European Union in recent months and are also targeting election-related services, according to the EU’s top cybersecurity official.

Juhan Lepassaar, head of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity, or ENISA, told The Associated Press in an interview that attacks with geopolitical motives have steadily risen since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

“The number of hacktivist attacks (against) European infrastructure — threat actors whose main aim is to cause disruption — has doubled from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024,” Lepassaar said late Tuesday at the agency's headquarters in Athens.

“It’s quite a significant increase," he said.

Citizens from the EU's 27 member states will vote June 6-9 for lawmakers in the European Parliament in an election that will also shape the EU’s executive branch, the European Commission. On Wednesday, Belgian officials said police carried out searches at the residence of an employee of the European Parliament and at his office in the Parliament’s building in Brussels over suspected Russian interference. Elections, also due in the United States, Britain and multiple other countries , have alerted security agencies to the threat of disruption campaigns funded by adversaries.

ENISA has led exercises and intense consultations to harden the resilience of election-related agencies in the EU for the past seven months. In an annual report for 2023, the agency noted a surge in ransomware attacks and incidents targeting public institutions.

Lepassaar said that attack methods — while not always successful — were often tried out in Ukraine before being expanded to EU countries.

“This is part of the Russian war of aggression, which they fight physically in Ukraine, but digitally also across Europe,” he said.

Experts warn that artificial intelligence tools are also being used to target Western voters at accelerating speed and scale with misleading or false information, including hyperrealistic video and audio clips known as deepfakes.

“It’s been emphasized, also by member states’ cybersecurity agencies, that AI-enabled disinformation and information manipulation is a big threat,” Lepassaar said.

His comments echo a warning made this month by U.S. Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines that technological progress will make more nations and groups able to launch effective disinformation campaigns.

U.S. and European experts are helping security agencies to try and anticipate emerging digital threats and vulnerabilities over this decade, with ENISA identifying food production, satellite management and self-driving vehicles as areas requiring attention.

Cybersecurity, Lepassaar argues, will inevitably need to become second nature to designers and consumers.

“I do believe that we have a societal challenge ahead of us to understand digital security in the same way that we understand, security in the everyday traffic environment,” he said.

“When we are driving, we are aware of what is going on around us. We are alert,” he said. “The same kind of behaviors and habits are what we need to also instill when we operate in any kind of a digital environment.”

___ Follow the AP's election-related news at: https://apnews.com/hub/global-elections

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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