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A Gallery Walk in Thissio and Petralona

Where to experience lgbt+ culture in athens, 6 unusual sights in athens worth a detour, from artefacts to art: 6 fine museum shops in athens, 10 modern buildings in athens you shouldn’t miss, listen to our new podcast series – athens unpacked, neighbourhoods.

Each neighbourhood in Athens has its own unique attractions and character. Explore the cafes you can’t miss in Exarchia, the vibrant nightlife in Gazi and the coolest shopping in Koukaki. Discover your new favourite Athenian neighbourhood with our insider guides.

Monastiraki

Historic centre, neos kosmos, sepolia / kolonos.

tourist guide athens

The most famous Athenian neighbourhood of Plaka is definitely a top attraction for visitors. Its picturesque streets, historic landmarks and lively shops make it a must-see. Just be prepared for the crowds.

What a difference a decade makes. The arrival of the landmark Acropolis Museum and the pedestrian walkway linking the city’s ancient monuments has seen this historic neighbourhood emerge as one of Athens’ most fashionable postcodes.

Layers of history intersect at the city’s hub of commerce and craftsmanship.

The heart of modern Greece beats in the historic centre of Athens — but contrary to what you’d think, it has little to do with ancient ruins.

The Athenian intelligentsia have long settled in this central neighbourhood of leafy squares and lively cafes. Now the hipsters are moving in too.

Rebels with, and quite often without, a cause have earned Exarchia a reputation as the turf of anarchists and radicals.

Gritty, dense and lined with auto repair shops, Neos Kosmos was a silent blue collar neighbourhood you’d never go to unless you lived there. But when art came to town, a transformation began, and today this up-and-coming neighbourhood is coming alive.

Head off the beaten track to Kolonos and Sepolia, two low-key residential areas that have yet to catch up with the fast-paced tempo of downtown Athens.

08 March 2024

Hadassah Emmerich: Epicurean Eden

10 February 2024 - 10 March 2024

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom

01 March 2024 - 10 March 2024

2nd Independent Film Festival of Athens

08 March 2024 - 10 March 2024

10 March 2024

Athens Half Marathon 2024

11 March 2024

SNFCC Cosmos: Tangerine Dream

14 March 2024 - 15 March 2024

Correspondences: Soundwalk Collective & Patti Smith

26 February 2024 - 16 March 2024

Carnival Celebrations at Athenian Squares 2024

03 March 2024 - 17 March 2024

Carnival for Κids 2024

10 March 2024 - 17 March 2024

Carnival Parades in Athens 2024

25 February 2024 - 18 March 2024

Carnival in Athens 2024

17 March 2024 - 18 March 2024

Carnival and Clean Monday at the SNFCC 2024

25 March 2024

Independence Day in Athens

16 June 2023 - 31 March 2024

Woodscapes: Erieta Attali On Kengo Kuma

14 December 2023 - 31 March 2024

Chaeronea, 2 August 338 BC: A Day that Changed the World

02 February 2024 - 31 March 2024

Love Issues

20 March 2024 - 31 March 2024

The Last Five Years

10 January 2024 - 07 April 2024

Neo-Impressionism: In the Colours of the Mediterranean

04 December 2023 - 12 April 2024

Meanings: Personification and Allegories, from Antiquity to Today

11 November 2023 - 13 April 2024

St Paul’s Sessions 6

18 January 2024 - 14 April 2024

All Ηere! 50 years of Democracy

01 January 2024 - 22 April 2024

Fun and Learning at the Athens Planetarium

22 April 2024 - 26 April 2024

Dimitris Papaioannou: INK

21 June 2023 - 12 May 2024

Urbanography: The Life of the City in the Decades 1950-1970

10 February 2024 - 18 May 2024

¡Viva España! at Olympia Music Theatre

08 June 2024 - 09 June 2024

14 December 2023 - 27 October 2024

WOMEN, Together

19 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Reverb Festival at Kypseli Municipal Market

05 July 2023 - 01 June 2025

Grand Tour at the Benaki Museum

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Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Panoramic view of the Acropolis on a hill with other historical ruins around in Athens, Greece

Athens, founded in 508 BC, is a gigantic city that sprawls over 1,131 square miles (2,929 square kilometers) and is home to over 3 million people.

There are over 5,000 years of history in Athens and you’ll find some of the largest collections in the world of Greek ruins and artifacts here.

But I’ll be honest: I don’t love Athens. I didn’t like it when I first went in 2006 and, after four visits (most recently last year), I’m still not completely sold on it. I think it’s dirty, ugly, and, overall, there’s just something about it I just don’t like.

That said, it’s not all bad.

I love the Plaka area (that’s where all the history is) and Psyri, just north, is my favorite neighborhood in the city. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and has a lot of excellent bars, street drinking, cafes, and restaurants.

Overall, I have a feeling that Athens is a place that truly reveals its magic when you live there. So, while I’m still not sold on it, I warmed up to it after my last visit and can see why some people like it.

Given the amount of history and sights here, I suggest you spend at least three full days when you visit. There’s a lot to see and do here.

This travel guide to Athens will give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your visit, save money, and make the most of your time here!

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Athens

view of Athens, Greece

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is a 5th-century BCE citadel overlooking Athens. The hilltop complex includes ancient buildings and ruins like Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s undoubtedly one of the best historical spots in the city. Lots of plays are hosted in the Odeon of Herodes here in the summer too. Arrive super early or late to avoid the crowds. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens (more on that below). For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

This newer (opened in 2009) museum is housed in a modern building that’s juxtaposed with the archaeological treasures that it holds. One of the highlights is the glass floor where you can walk over the ruins of an ancient neighborhood. There are also over 4,000 excavated finds, including sculptures, friezes, pottery, and more. End your visit at the museum’s restaurant for one of the best views of the Parthenon in the city. Admission is 5 EUR in the winter and 10 EUR in the summer.

3. See the National Archaeological Museum

This museum, founded in the 19th century, has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. There are five main permanent collections with exhibits covering Prehistoric Antiquities, Sculpture, Metalwork, Vases and Minor Arts, Egyptian Antiquities, and Cypriot Antiquities. You can even see the 2,000-year-old analog “computer” found in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera. Plan to spend at least a half-day here. Admission is 6 EUR in the winter and 12 EUR in the summer.

4. Hike Lycabettus

Legend has it that the mythological goddess Athena created Mount Lycabettus when she dropped a limestone mountain on the spot. If you want some exercise and a great view of the city and the Acropolis (especially at sunset), hike up to the peak of this 277-meter (909 ft) hill, which is the highest point in Athens. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street. There’s a (pricey) cafe at the top if you need a drink, as well as an open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts in the summer, and a 19th-century chapel. If you don’t want to walk up, you can pay 7.50 EUR for a return trip on the funicular (5 EUR one-way).

5. See the Historic Sights

The ancient ruins of old Athens are littered around The Plaka, an area that’s known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods.” Located in the shadow of the Acropolis, this is the oldest part of Athens and ruins are everywhere. The Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Roman Agora, Olympieion, Kerameikos, and a ton more other stuff are all here. Plan to spend a while roaming the sites. For the big 5, get a combo ticket. It costs 30 EUR and is valid for 5 days so you don’t have to rush.

Other Things to See and Do in Athens

1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, introduce you to the main sights, and give you access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. This post lists all my favorite walking tours in Athens . Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

And if you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, Take Walks is the way to go. You get lots of behind-the-scenes access, including at the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Tours start at 59 EUR. It’s worth the money if you’re a history buff like me!

2. Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora)

This 19th-century public market is one of my favorite places to wander, people watch, and sample the local delicacies. Come early to watch the produce and fish being unloaded. There are a ton of Greek specialties, like olives, halloumi, and feta for sale here. It’s open every day of the week except Sunday, from 7am to 6pm (it gets very crowded around lunchtime so arrive early). If you have an appetite, stop at Diporto to eat. The restaurant has no menu so they serve whatever they cook for the day. The owners barely speak English but the food is excellent!

3. Go to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon

Constructed in 444 BCE, the remarkably well preserved Temple of Poseidon sits on a rocky outcrop 70 meters (300 ft) above the ocean. Built to honor the god of the sea, the temple served as a welcomed sight for returning sailors. The sunset from here is incredible and there are several beaches nearby in Legrena and Lavrio. Admission to the archaeological site is 10 EUR. It’s about an hour away from Athens.

4. Visit the Kanellopoulos Museum

This former mansion dates to 1884 and houses a collection of over 6,500 items, including jewelry, weapons, clay-and-stone vases, Byzantine art, figurines, and furniture that once belonged to the wealthy Kanellopoulos family. The collection was bought by the government and turned into a museum in 1976. Although there isn’t much English signage, you rarely have to compete for views with other visitors. Admission is 3 EUR.

5. See the Tower of the Winds (Aerides)

Originally built by Andronicus in the first century BCE, this octagonal tower once functioned as a sundial, weather vane, compass, and water clock. It’s widely accepted to be the world’s first meteorological station. The entire tower is made of Pentelic marble, which is the same used for the Parthenon and was rarely used for anything other than temples. It’s 8 EUR to visit with a combined ticket to the Ancient Agora.

6. Witness the Easter Vigil

If you happen to be in Athens during Easter weekend, don’t miss this enchanting vigil procession. Every Good Friday, thousands upon thousands of people form a procession throughout the city, all holding lit candles. Head to Lycabettus Hill and join the crowds ascending to the St. George church. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a cultural experience worth seeing. You can also climb the hill anytime to watch the sunset (it’s the highest point in the city so the views are excellent). The neighborhood below, Kolonaki, also has lots of upscale bars and cafes if you want to splash out and relax.

7. Hike Parnitha National Park

Located 90 minutes from Athens by car, here you can find several caves, gorges, and springs to explore. Mount Parnitha is also the highest mountain in the region, standing 1,413 meters (4,635 ft) tall. There are around 75 well-marked paths in the park so a guide isn’t necessary. For an easy hike, the trek to Bafi Refuge from the church of Ayia Triada only takes 40 minutes. For something more challenging, try the 20-kilometer (12-mile) trek from Avlona to Agia Marina.

8. Stroll through Anafiotika

Anafiotika is a 19th-century neighborhood built into the northern side of the Acropolis hill. It lies above Plaka, near the entrance to the Agora, but has none of the hustle and bustle of the city center. This place embodies the feel of the Greek islands, boasting whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and tiny sidewalk cafes.

9. Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Dating from the 6th century BCE, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the largest temple in Greece (it took almost 700 years to build). Peisistratos, the son of Hippocrates and ruler of Athens from 561-527 BCE, started its construction and then abandoned it after funds ran dry. Hadrian finished the job in 131 CE, and then built an enormous statue of Zeus (and then an enormous statue of himself). There are only a few Corinthian columns still standing. Admission is 6 EUR but really there’s not much here so just look at it from the gate and save yourself some money!

10. Take a food tour

Athens is one big gastronomic adventure. To sample the city’s best eats, Devour’s Ultimate Athens Food Tour provides a fantastic introduction to the local cuisine, with thirteen tastings across nine traditional establishments. You’ll sample fresh cheeses and cold cuts, visit the central market, learn about Greek dining culture, enjoy loukoumades (fried donut balls), and taste some classic souvlaki, all while exploring three historic neighborhoods. Tours start from 69 EUR.

11. Hang out in Psyri

This small neighborhood north of Plaka was given a major upgrade for the 2004 Olympics and consists of an eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, tavernas, cafes, and restaurants. It’s one of my favorite areas in Athens. It’s got this cyberpunk/hipster vibe to it and is really popular with locals on weekends. There are a lot of hostels here and nearby you’ll find one of the Middle Eastern/Indian neighborhoods in the city (they are blended here) with lots of good food options.

13. Hit the beach

The closest beaches to the center of Athens are in Piraeus and Alimos, just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) south of Athens center. They offer beaches with clear water, sand and pebbles, and have a good selection of restaurants to choose from. Their easy access from Athens by public transport means they get busy in the summer — especially on weekends and holidays. If you have more time and want to escape (some of) the crowds, head further along the Athenian Riviera to places like Lagonisi or Saronida or go on to Sounion (you could combine a beach trip with visiting the Temple of Poseidon). If the sea is too cold for swimming, head to Vouliagmeni Lake. The water in the lake is thermally heated so it’s much warmer than the ocean!

14. Hike Filopappou Hill

Right across from the Acropolis is this hill that gives you one of the best views of the Parthenon. The hill takes about 15 minutes to walk up and there are a number of ruins and sites all around the hill you can stop at (they have a lot of good signs that explain what was there). Definitely go up. The views are great!

15. Day trip to Delphi

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

16. Watch the sunset on Mars Hill

A very popular sunset spot with locals is Mars (Areopagus) Hill. It was once the site that served as the high court of appeal in ancient Greece. Today, it’s a great spot to relax and see the sunset. Bring some beer or wine up here and enjoy the view of the city right under the Acropolis. It’s like a free “rooftop” bar!

17. See Hansen’s Trilogy

There are three buildings just five minutes walk from the Syntagma main square and are considered some of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in the world. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen in the 19th century, The Academy, the University, and the National Library look exactly like how you’d picture ancient Athens. The simple use of geometric shapes gives these buildings a grand, eloquent design. Don’t miss seeing them!

18. Explore the Panathenaic Stadium (Kalimarmaro)

This stadium is where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896. The stadium was originally used in 330 BCE by the Greeks. The Romans rebuilt it entirely out of marble in 144 CE, expanding it to hold over 50,000 people. It eventually was abandoned and wasn’t used again until the 19th century when it was refurbished for the Olympics. Admission is 10 EUR. In the summer, lots of concerts are held here for big touring bands.

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

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

Athens Travel Costs

Cafe tables lining an alleyway covered with a lush tree branches, surrounded by bright yellow buildings, in Athens, Greece.

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds starts at 35 EUR per night, while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs 20-25 EUR per night. Private rooms cost between 95-105 EUR per night in peak season and around 55 EUR in off-peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have kitchens if you want to cook.

For those traveling with a tent, camping can be done outside the city for around 16 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels with a private bathroom start at 40 EUR per night, though expect to spend closer to 50-60 per night if you’re booking last minute.

You can find Airbnbs anywhere in Athens, with private rooms starting at 20 EUR per night (although they average closer to 45 EUR). A full apartment averages about 130 EUR per night.

Average cost of food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables. Olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts are also super common. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find gyros or souvlaki for between 2-3 EUR, while a breakfast pastry with a coffee isn’t more than 3 EUR.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 10 EUR for a main dish and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 5-8 EUR. Fish will be more expensive around 15-20 EUR. A lot of restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water at a restaurant is about 2 EUR.

All in all, if you’re going out at a casual taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that prices, go up depending on how fancy you get!

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 7-10 EUR while Indian/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

Beer is 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR. Cocktails are expensive, however, usually costing 8-12 EUR.

My favorite places to eat in the city are Kostas for souvlaki (they use this red sauce that is to die for), Feyrouz for Lebanese food, Avli Psiri or Ella for Greek, Shiraki for Japanese, Dosa House for dosas.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 40 EUR on groceries per week, which will get you staples like pasta, rice, fresh veggies, and chicken. Head to the Central Market for the cheapest, freshest food.

Backpacking Athens Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 45 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly cheap or free activities like free walking tours. If you plan on drinking more, add 5-10 EUR more to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of 105 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, drink more, eat out for all your meals at cheap street stalls, take the occasional taxi, and do more activities like visiting the Acropolis and the Archeological Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 220 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Athens Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece in general is pretty cheap and Athens is no exception. Stick to cheap eats, a few attractions, and boom, you’re set! But, with a few extra tips, your money can go a lot further. Here are some suggested ways to save money in Athens:

  • Take a free walking tour – To get a feel for the city and learn some history, be sure to take a free walking tour when you arrive. Exploring a city on foot is the best way to understand it, and if you love architecture and history then this is a must! Just be sure to tip your guide at the end.
  • Get a transportation pass – Buying combo tickets for Athens’ metro system is one of the best ways to save money. A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR, and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.
  • Visit the sites for free – From November 1st to March 31st, all major sites in the city are free on the first Sunday of the month. Though the crowds tend to be big, it’s a great way to see all the major sites and save yourself the entrance fee! Prices are also heavily discounted during these months as well.
  • Get a combo ticket – For 30 EUR you can get admission to the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and more. Considering the entrance fee is 20 EUR for just the Acropolis, this is a steal!
  • Have an ISIC Card – To save up to 50% on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
  • Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts in Athens. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you get a local host that can tell you the best places to go and share their insider tips.
  • Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
  • Use the Greek Salad/Bread Rule – Is a restaurant cheap or expensive? Here’s a good rule of thumb: If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more that, the place is expensive.
  • Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!
  • Use points if you can – If you’re a travel hacker and have points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation will be better if you’re staying at cheaper properties (anything less than 100 EUR). For only a few thousand points per night, you can save a ton of money. This post has more info if you’re new to travel hacking .

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens has plenty of affordable hostels to choose from. From hostels to hotels to quiant B&Bs, you have a lot of choice. If you’re looking for a hostel, here are some of my favorites (they all offer private rooms too):

  • Athens Hawks Hostel

How to Get Around Athens

Bright, natural-light-filled train station in Athens with a colorful subway car.

A one-day unlimited pass is 4.10 EUR and a five-day pass is 8.20 EUR. You can also get a three-day tourist pass, including round-trip tickets to the airport for 20 EUR.

The express bus from the airport for 6 EUR each way. The subway costs 9 EUR each way and takes about an hour from the city center to the airport (and vice versa).

Bicycle – If you’re not afraid of navigating Athens’ chaotic traffic, bike rentals are an enjoyable way to get around. Rentals start at 12 EUR per day, though electric bicycles can be double that price. Athens By Bike and Bike Me Up are two reputable companies to use.

Taxi – Base fare for taxis in Athens is 3 EUR, with each additional kilometer costing 0.74 EUR. Skip the taxis if you can as the prices add up quickly. Also, make sure the meter is turned on. It’s illegal for drivers not to use the meter, however, some drivers might try to get sneaky to rip you off. Additionally, make sure the meter shows a number “1”. The “2” is only for 12am-5am, when the rates are double.

Ridesharing – Uber no longer exists here so you’re stuck taking taxis. (You can still use the Uber app, but it will just call a taxi for you).

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. However, you won’t need one unless you’re going to be leaving the city to explore the surrounding area. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have had their license for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

When to Go to Athens

Summer (June-August)is the most popular time to visit. However, it’s also super hot. Temperatures climb as high as the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F), which can often be unbearable. Sometimes they get even higher and get closer to 40°C. On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing some island hopping from Athens, this is a good time to come to enjoy the Mediterranean waters.

Winters in Athens are mild, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F). It rarely snows so this can be an excellent time to see the Acropolis and other famous sights without the tourist crowds. Easter is an excellent time to visit to appreciate all the Greek Orthodox celebrations.

Personally, I think that the shoulder season (April/May and September/October) is the best time to visit. Prices are a bit cheaper, temperatures are pleasant, and you can avoid the busiest time of the tourist season. If you’re on a budget and want to beat the crowds, this is when you should visit.

How to Stay Safe in Athens

Athens is generally a very safe city to visit, even for solo travelers. Your biggest risk is pickpockets, especially on the subway. The city is rife with them. Be sure to keep a close eye on your stuff and watch out for groups who come near you. Usually, they are working in teams to distract you while someone picks your pocket. Other than that, there’s not much to worry about.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

At night, it’s best to avoid the areas around Omonia, Exarcheia, Victoria Square, and Kolokotroni.

If you hike to Fillopapou hill, keep an eye out for pickpockets. The pickpockets know tourists go up there so they tend to hang out around there looking for an easy target.

Scams can occur around Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Glyfada when tourists are lured into a bar with special discounted drink prices, and then are later forced to pay huge prices on their bar tabs or get threatened with violence. You can read more about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

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

Athens Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Athens Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

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The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

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

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

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

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Guía turística de Athens

Are you planning to travel to Athens? We can help! Introducing Athens includes up to date information on the best touristic attractions , where to stay or the best areas to eat out .

Athens Travel Guide

  • General Information
  • Top Attractions
  • Getting to Athens
  • Public Transport
  • How to Save
  • Where to eat
  • Where to Stay
  • 2-day itinerary

Athens is the capital of Greece and the country’s cultural, political, and economical hub. Birthplace of renowned artists and philosophers throughout antiquity , ancient Greek democracy had a deep influence on the design of other political institutions around the world.

There is no place quite like Athens to dive into Ancient Greece and learn about magnificent temples and imposing buildings that have remained standing for centuries.

Tourism in Athens

Athens was founded over 5,000 years ago and certain of its inhabitants have influenced the development of western culture.

The city’s numerous historic monuments make it a fascinating place to visit for tourists from all over the world . The Parthenon , the Acropolis , and the Ancient Agora are some of the most famous examples of ancient Greek buildings.

Although not all landmarks are beautifully preserved, the sum of them is surprisingly harmonious, a peculiar feature of classic architecture. Visitors will be left breathless and amazed.    

Athens has a lot to offer (not only impressive monuments), including an appetizing and varied Mediterranean cuisine . Colorful vegetables, juicy meat, and tasty cheese are only three elements of a long list of varied delicacies prepared in the purest Greek style. 

A holiday in Athens is never complete without a day trip to some of its nearby towns and villages .

How to organize your trip?

Before planning your travel, why not learn about the history of Athens and then check out the entry requirements for Greece? Once you know the basic information , then check out the most-visited tourist attractions and museums before booking your hotel and flights .

Book your hotel in advance

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we suggest visiting our search engine , where you’ll find all types of hotels, hostels, and apartments with the best rates guaranteed . You can get up to a 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

  • Accommodation in Athens - find the best deals

top activities

Hydra, Poros and Aegina Full-Day Cruise Discover three beautiful Greek islands on a full-day cruise of Hydra, Poros and Aegina and enjoy a peaceful day far from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

On our  guided tour of the Acropolis of Athens , we'll explore this  iconic Greek temple complex  - a must if you visit the capital of Greece!

Enjoy the very best of Greek cuisine  on this food tour of Athens. You'll sample some of the most traditional dishes!

Delphi Day Trip Embark on a day trip to Delphi & discover what was once believed to be the center of the world , now one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Acropolis Museum Athens Ticket If you want to discover  Ancient Greek  culture , with this  ticket to the  Acropolis Museum , you'll admire numerous ancient artefacts from Ancient Greece.

Electric Bike Tour of Athens Explore Athens on an electric bike ! With this guided cycling tour, we'll experience the rich history and culture of this fascinating place.

Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus Day Trip Explore Classical Greece on a trip to the Corinth Canal, Epidaurus & Mycenae. You'll delve into Greek history & culture by discovering the  Argolis peninsula .

Athens City and Acropolis Guided Tour Join a 3.5-hour guided tour of Athens in which you’ll discover the city’s main attractions and visit the impressive Acropolis with an expert guide.

Acropolis & Museum Ticket + Audioguide Visit two of  Athens's most renowned sights  by reserving your  ticket and audioguide for the Acropolis and its accompanying museum.

Ticket to the Acropolis of Athens With this entrance to the Acropolis in Athens you'll be able to visit one of the most emblematic places of Ancient Greece . Visit the landmarks of ancient Athens

Free Walking Tour of Athens Live and breathe the five thousand-year history of Athens, the foundation of European culture itself, in search of the traces of Plato, Archimedes and Zeus.

Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Explore the capital of Greece with style on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus . Learn about the history and culture of Athens as you admire its landmarks

Meteora Day Trip Visit the  Meteora Monasteries , spectacular buildings that are perched on sandstone rock formations, on this excursion from Athens !

City Tour + Acropolis & the Museum Tour Athens & visit the Acropolis and its museum , one of the most important museums of the capital of Greece. Ideal for first-time visitors!

Half-Day Trip to Cape Sounion Enjoy a unique afternoon by booking a half-day trip to Cape Sounion, home to the majestic Temple of Poseidon , practically entirely surrounded by the sea.

Athens Urban Art Walking Tour Are you a lover of urban art? Discover the other side of Athens on this tour of the Psyri neighbourhood, where graffiti takes centre stage.

Discover the landmarks in Athens lit up on this night walking tour around Monastiraki Square, one of the most lively and vibrant areas in the city.

Athens Tuk Tuk Tour Explore Athens in a fast & unique way with this tuk tuk tour ! Plus, as a private tour, you'll be able to customize the stops according to your interests.

3-Day Classical Greece Tour Discover Classic Greece by visiting Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia & Delphos on this 3-day tour. You'll also see ancient cities like Corinth & Arachova!

Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Learn about the contributions Ancient Greek made to science and their advanced technology with this ticket to the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology .

Museum of Cycladic Art Ticket The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens is home to numerous Greek and Cypriot archaeological pieces. Delve in and find out more with this ticket.

Greek Cooking Class Learn about Greek cuisine, learn to prepare the delicious dishes and then indulge in the mouth-watering delicacies. An unmissable cooking class in Athens!

Tourist Bus to Cape Sounion On the tourist bus to Cape Sunion you'll travel to one of the most important places of Greek mythology and you'll have an audio guide in English .

Athens Museum Pass The  Athens Museum Pass  offers access to the best museums in the Greek capital , saving you time and money. Make the most of your trip to the ancient city!

Electric Bike Tour of the Acropolis Explore the Acropilis and have fun on an electric bike! The Parthenon, Anafiotika, Plaka and the Panathenaic Stadium are some of the famous places you'll visit.

Classical Greece Tour: 4 Days Delve into the past and discover Ancient Greece on a 4-day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphos and Meteora with an English-speaking guide.

Athens Segway Tour Discover the Acropolis, Mars Hill, the Panathenaic Stadium and the ancient Agora on a segway and enjoy a very comfy tour of Athens.

iVenture Card Athens With the iVenture Card Athens, you'll have access to more than 30 attractions in the Greek capital, with important discounts in shops and restaurants.

Athens Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket Make the most of your time in Athens to enjoy a unique, family-friendly activity with the Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket. Get ready to have a great time!

Authentic Athens Guided Tour Tour the Greek capital in search of its monuments and lesser-known corners with this alternative tour of Athens - a different way of discovering the greek life.

Athens Shopping Tour Jewellery, art dealers, organic cosmetics... Let yourself be surprised by Greek fashion and enjoy this shopping tour of Kolonaki, the most luxurious area.

7 Day Greek Island Tour: Santorini, Paros & Naxos Explore three of the most beautiful places in Greece on this 7 day Greek island tour from Athens . Visit Santorini, Paros and Naxos at your own pace.

3-Day Santorini Trip If you had to choose one Greek island to visit, it's got to be Santorini ! This island offers incredible views, crystal water beaches and picturesque villages.

Athens Hills Hike Visit the most impressive viewpoints in the Greek capital on this Athens Hills Hike. We'll admire views of the city from places like Mount Lycabettus.

Athens Riviera Electric Scooter Tour Explore the Athens Riviera in a fast, fun, and comfortable way on this electric scooter tour. You'll be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the Attica coast!

Ticket to the Acropolis + Museum With this combo ticket, you'll be able to visit the world-famous Acropolis in Athens and enjoy the wonderful art housed in its museum.

Acropolis of Athens & 6 Archaeological Sites Ticket By booking this Acropolis ticket , you'll have access to 6 archaeological sites  in the surrounding area, such as Hadrian's Library and the Olympian .

Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket With this ticket to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens , you can visit one of the biggest exhibitions about Ancient Greece in the world .

Acropolis & 6 Sites Tickets The jewels of the classic age await you in Athens. To visit them, waste no time in booking your ticket for the Acropolis  and 6 archaeological excavation sites .

Hard Rock Cafe Athens Have lunch or dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe Athens and enjoy delicious American-inspired dishes while listening to the best rock music.

Acropolis Entrance Ticket & Audio Guide Want to delve into classical Greece ? Then put on your headphones to explore the Acropolis as it once stood with this audio guide ticket .

On this excursion to Mykonos from Athens, we'll take a ferry to and from the island , one of the most beautiful in Greece. An unforgettable day at sea!

On this kayak tour along the coast of Athens , we'll discover the beaches in Attica . Plus, you'll be able to swim and relax in one of these heavenly coves.

Arachova Day Trip The most beautiful village at the foot of Mount Parnassus awaits us on this day trip to Arachova from Athens . Its history and landscapes will amaze you!

On this tour of ancient Athens and the Acropolis , we'll travel back in time to explore the Greek capital. We'll the Parthenon , Agora , Monastiraki , and Plaka .

Santorini + Paros 5-Day Tour On this 5-day tour of Santorini and Paros from Athens, you'll visit two of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades archipelago . You'll love it!

Paros and Naxos 5-Day Tour If you're in Athens and want to visit the Cyclades , this 5-day trip to Paros and Naxos is perfect for you. An unforgettable trip around   the  Aegean Sea !

Santorini and Milos 5-Day Tour This 5-day tour around Santorini and Milos is the perfect plan to explore two of the most  beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea . 

Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise On this sunset cruise along the Athens Riviera , you'll admire one of the lesser-known Greek coastlines as it's being tinged with orange and gold.

Mykonos and Santorini: 4 Days On this four day tour we'll visit two of the most famous Greek islands, Mykonos and Santorini. Two unmissable, unforgettable destinations!

Dinner in the Sky in Athens Enjoy  spectacular views over the ancient city of Athens while you delight your taste bus with a gourmet meal served 40 metres in the sky.

Agistri, Moni and Aegina Cruise Traveling to Athens & don’t know what islands to visit? On this day trip to Agistri, Moni and Aegina , swim in crystalline waters & enjoy stunning landscapes.

2-Day Delphi and Meteora Trip Set off on a unique 2-day tour from Athens to two of the most stunning parts of Greece : Delphi and Meteora, both must-sees.

5-Day Mykonos & Santorini Package Mykonos & Santorini are two  of the most famous islands in Greece & the world thanks to their beaches & lively nightlife. Explore them on this 5-day trip!

Agistri, Metopi & Perdika Island Cruise Cruise with us around the stunning islands of Agistri, Metopi, and Perdika . Each has its unique charm, and you'll be able to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Sunset Electric Bike Tour in Athens Embark on an enchanting sunset electric bike tour of Athens , pedaling past iconic landmarks with the mesmerizing sunset as your backdrop.

Why is our Athens travel guide better?

Introducing Athens has been written by experienced travelers who wish to help you plan your holidays to this enticing city in the best possible way, saving money and learning about everyday tips to make your trip memorable.

The information provided in this guide was updated in November 2022 . If you find a mistake or would like to make a suggestion , please do not hesitate to   contact us .

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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

tourist guide athens

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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

tourist guide athens

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.

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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. 

tourist guide athens

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.

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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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A journey through time

Shot of Athens at dusk from above, Lycabettus in the background.

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National Archaeological Museum

Acropolis Museum

Byzantine and Christian Museum

National Gallery - Alexandros Soutsos Museum

Museum of Cycladic Art

Panathenaic Stadium

Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation, Athens

Benaki Museum of Islamic Art

Syntagma Square

Athens for shopping centre

National Garden

Biking in Athens

Pedion tou Areos

Nightlife in Athens

Bus Station Kifisou

Bus Station Liosion

Athens Railway Station

Unique Experiences

Three rows of leather sandals on paved surface with white pebbles.

Historical Walkings in the city centre

Latest events.

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Saturday in the Museum with 20+1 masterpieces

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ΑΣΤΥΓΡΑΦΙΑ / URBANOGRAPHY

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Meanings (NoΗMATA) Personifications and Allegories from Antiquity to Today

Two women near a fountain, surrounded by trees in a captivating painting

Neo-Impressionism in the Colours of the Mediterranean

Tips for your next trip.

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A delicious visit to Athens' museums

Beautiful atriums and courtyards, balconies with breathtaking views and green gardens have been shaped as part of museum premises in Athens promise to offer you relaxing spots before or after your culture-oriented visits.

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Athens Riviera

You don't need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital: take a short bus ride and you'll find superb local beaches along the sheltered Saronic Gulf...

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Museum cafés in Athens

Beautiful atriums and courtyards, balconies and lush gardens, properly adjusted to give you a rest before or after your visit to the museums of the Greek capital.

FILMING IN ATHENS

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SUMMER HOLIDAY (1963)

Four London bus mechanics strike up a deal with London transport. They do up a double-decker London bus, drive it around Europe as a hotel and if they make it, they will in turn own and be in charge of a whole fleet. While on the road in France, they pick up three ladies whose car breaks down and offer to take them to their next singing job in Athens!

DIRECTOR: PETER YATES FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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THE BOY ON A DOLPHIN (1957)

A sponge diver ( Sofia Loren) on Hydra island discovers a sunken ship filled with artifacts, including a priceless ancient gold statue of a boy on a dolphin. She and her boyfriend enlist the help of an American archaeologist, but her boyfriend can't afford the asking price and ends up turning to an art collector for help.

DIRECTOR: JEAN NEGULESCO FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS, RHODES, KORINTHOS, POROS, KALABAKA, DELOS, DELPHI, SANTORINI

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IN THE COOL OF THE DAY (1963)

An English book publisher, who is taunted and tormented by a grudging, embittered, anti-social wife, falls hopelessly in love with a fragile American girl, who has been sheltered and protected to the point of absurdity by her adoring husband. The couple soon run off to Greece together to pursue their romance.

DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEVENS FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, DELPHI

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FOR THE LOVE OF BENJI (1977)

Even when he is supposed to be on holidays, Benji the dog is never far away from adventure. While traveling to Greece with his owners, Benji has a run-in with a secret agent (Ed Nelson), who hides something on him that a lot of unsavoury characters seem to want. Once in the foreign land, Benji becomes separated from his owners, and has to navigate his way through Athens with everyone chasing after him. All Benji wants is to be reunited with housekeeper Mary (Patsy Garrett) and the kids.

DIRECTOR: JOE CAMP FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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AMERICA AMERICA (1962)

Somewhere around 1900, a young Greek man lives a miserable life in a small village in Turkey as a member of the Greek minority. When the oppression by the Turks increases, his father provides him with the family treasures and sends him to Constantinople. There, he is supposed to make money and get the family to join him. But his own dream is going to America...

DIRECTOR: ELIA KAZAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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ATLAS (1961)

An evil king Praximedes is convinced to settle his dispute with his political rival by staging a battle to the death between their respective champions, and convinces superhero Atlas to fight for him. But Atlas eventually realises the king's true nature and turns against him...

DIRECTOR: ROGER CORMAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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BACKFIRE (1964)

A gold smuggler hires our hero to transport a stolen fortune to a new hideout. The smuggler sends him moll to accompany (and spy on) the hero. The two set out for Beirut to get instructions as to where the gold is located. They travel throughout exotic southeast Europe and the Middle-East seeking further instructions, never realizing that they have had the gold with them all along...

DIRECTOR: JEAN BECKER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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GIRL ON THE BRIDGE (1999)

Adèle (Vanessa Paradis ) a waif who is unlucky in love decides to take her own life by jumping from a Paris bridge, when she gets a strange proposition from Gabor (Daniel Auteuil), a professional knife thrower. Together, their luck is unstoppable, and they have an almost psychic bond. But fidelity is not easy, even for those that are perfectly mached.

DIRECTOR: PATRICE LECONTE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY (2014)

A con artist ( Viggo Mortensen)and his wife (Kirsten Dunst) find themselves in deep trouble in Greece after the former murders a detective. To escape from Greece, they must trust a stranger (Oscar Isaac) who is inherently untrustworthy.

DIRECTOR: HOSSEIN AMINI FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, CHANIA, HERAKLION

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IN THE FADE (2017)

Katja's life falls apart in the blink of an eye when two neo-Nazis kill her husband and 6-year-old son in a bomb attack. Her quest for justice soon pushes her to the edge as the two suspects stand trial for murder. The movie has won the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film while Diane Cruger won the award of Best actress at Cannes Festival.

DIRECTOR: FATIH AKIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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IT HAPPENED IN ATHENS (1962)

During the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, a poor shepherd decides to complete in them, while a glamorous actress promises to marry one of the winners of one of the games.

DIRECTOR: ANDREW MARTON FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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JUPITER'S THIGH (1980)

A honeymoon turns into a breathless country chase for a police inspector and a researcher of ancient Greek civilization.

DIRECTOR: PHILIPPE DE BROCA FILMING LOCATION: KALABAKA, PARGA, CORFU, ATHENS

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MALE HUNT (1964)

A Frenchman is getting ready to marry the woman of his dreams. He begins to have second thoughts though when his best friend, a sworn bachelor, tells him that women only use marriage to exploit men. Under that influence, he leaves for Greece on his own.

DIRECTOR: EDOUARD MOLINARO FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, RHODES

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MY LIFE IN RUINS (2009)

A Greek-American tour guide (Nia Vardalos) leads and assorted group of misfit tourists around Greece. In a hysterical clash of personalities and cultures, everything seems to go wrong.Until one day, a very special tourist (Richard Dreyfuss) shows her how to have fun and take a good look at the last person she'd ever expect to find love with: her quiet and sexy Greek bus driver (Alexis Georgoulis).

DIRECTOR: DONALD PETRIE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, OLYMPIA, DELPHI

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NEVER ON SUNDAY (1960)

A look at the life of Ilya, (Mercouri) a carefree Greek prostitute, who lives in the port of Piraeus and meets an American scholar Holmes (Dassin), an American tourist and classical scholar who adores all things Greek. The two try to change each others' perception and way of living for the better. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (Manos Hadjidakis for "Never on Sunday").

DIRECTOR: JULES DASSIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

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NEW YORK STORIES (1989)

Τhree stories happening in New York. The first, by Scorsese, is about a painter who creates his works helped by high volume music and an attractive assistant; second, by Coppola, is about a rich and bold 12 years old who helps her separated parents to reconciliate; third, by Allen, is a witty piece of comedy about the impossibility of getting rid of the son's role. The one of Coppola includes a concert on top of the Acropolis Hill.

DIRECTOR: WOODY ALLEN, FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA, MARTIN SCORSESE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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A WOMAN AT HER WINDOW (1976)

The wealthy Austrian-born wife of a penniless Italian diplomat and playboy in 1936's Greece, amuses herself pursuing a shallow loveless affair with a nobleman. Her life is changed when she rescues a political activist she finds hiding beneath her window and falls in love with him...

DIRECTOR: PIERRE GRANIER- DEFERRE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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RAISE THE TITANIC (1980)

The American military is developing an experimental defence system that requires an extremely rare mineral in order to work. It is known that around the turn of the century a miner exported some of the mineral. Hopes are dashed they learn that he transported the mineral on the Titanic. But perhaps the Titanic can be salvaged...

DIRECTOR: JERRY JAMESON FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS

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RUBY CAIRO (1992)

A young widow discovers that her late husband had stashed a fortune in secret bank accounts across Europe, and sets off to follow a trail of clues encoded in a set of baseball cards.

DIRECTOR: GRAEME CLIFFORD FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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SIGNS & WONDERS (2000)

Alec (Stellan Skarsgard), an American living in Athens, leaves his wife (Charlotte Rampling) for another woman, Katherine (Deborah Kara Unger), but then tries to return to her over his guilt, but she's more interested in a Greek political activist (Dimitris Katalifos). He is under the influence of signs and premonitions with blue being his color, and yellow being the color of Katherine.

DIRECTOR: JONATHAN NOSSITER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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TEMPEST (1982)

A middle- aged architect is going through a difficult mi-life crisis. He abandons his wife, leaves New York, and moves to Greece with his teenage daughter. He meets a singer, they become lovers and they move to a Greek island. One day, a twist of fate brings his wife and her new lover to the island due to a shipwreck.

DIRECTOR: PAUL MAZURSKY FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

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THE 300 SPARTANS (1962)

In 480 BC Spartan king Leonidas led an extremely small army of Greek Soldiers (300 of them his personal body guards from Sparta) to hold off an invading Persian army more that 20 times as large. The actial heroism of those who stood (and ultimately died) with Leonidas helped shape the course of Western Civilization.

DIRECTOR: RUDOLPH MATE FILMING LOCATION: KORINTHOS, ATHENS

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THE ANGRY HILLS (1959)

In 1941, an American journalist (Robert Mitchum) reporting from Greece is given a secret list og German collaborators to transport to British Intelligence headquarters. He is helped by Greek resistance fighters as he is pursued across the country by the Nazis...

DIRECTOR: ROBERT ALDRICH FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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THE BURGLARS (1971)

A band of crooks, led by a professional jewel thief, break into a mansion on the outskirts of Athens to steal a priceless collection of emeralds. The robbery is a success, but the gang miss their escape transport out of the country. Meanwhile, their leader is pursued by a crooked police chief, who will stop at nothing to lay his hands on the stolen jewels...

DIRECTOR: HENRI VERNEUIL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS, CORFU

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THE GREEK TYCOON (1978)

She was the most famous woman in the world. He was a peasant, a pirate, a shark. The Greek Tycoon is the story of their fiery romance. Liz Cassidy, the unhappy widow of an assassinated American president, is pursued by womanising millionaire businessman Theo Tomasis, who proves to be very persistent. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Anthony Quinn, Edward Albert and James Franciscus.

DIRECTOR: J. LEE THOMPSON FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, ATHENS, MYKONOS

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THE ISLAND OF LOVE (1963)

When their gangster- financed B- movie flops, two conmen flee to Greece to escape the mobster who's after them. Once there, they work up another scam to open a resort and one of them falls for the gangster's niece.

DIRECTOR: MORTON DA COSTA FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, SPETSES, ATHENS

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THE LITTLE GIRL DRUMMER (2018)

Brilliant young actress Charlie strikes up an acquaintance with an intriguing stranger while on holiday in Greece, but it rapidly becomes apparent that his intentions are far from romantic.

DIRECTOR: PARK CHAN- WOOK FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, NAXOS

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THE OTHER SIDE OF MIDNIGHT (1977)

A beautiful French woman falls in love with a dashing American pilot. She expects him to marry her, but instaed he abandons her. She later becomes a successful actress and manoeuvres to ahve him hired as the private pilot of her wealthy Greek lover, only to rekindle their passion.

DIRECTOR: CHARLES JARROTT

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THE ROAD TO CORINTH (1967)

During the Cold War in Greece, NATO radar and missile systems experience mysterious Robert Ford and his wife, Shanny (Jean Seberg), takes over the investigation despite the opposition of the head of the secret service, Mr. Sharps (Michel Bouquet). The latter orders the intelligence agent Dex (Maurice Ronet), a friend of Robert and Shanny, to monitor Shanny's whereabouts. The film is also known as "Who's Got The Black Box?"

DIRECTOR: CLAUDE CHABROL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

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THE STEPS (1966)

An artist returns to Santorini, where she spent her childhood, to face the ghosts of her past and her present. Starring Irini Papa, Umberto Orsini and Takis Emmanuel.

DIRECTOR: LEONARD HIRSCHIELD FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI, ATHENS

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THE TRIP TO GREECE (2020)

When Odysseus left Troy it took him ten years to get back to his home in Ithaca. Steve and Rob have only six days on their own personal odyssey in THE TRIP TO GREECE. On the way they argue about tragedy and comedy, astronomy and biology, myth, history, democracy and the meaning of life!

DIRECTOR: MICHAEL WINTERBOTTOM FILMING LOCATION: LESVOS, HALKIDIKI, ATHENS, HYDRA, ITHACA

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CHALTE CHALTE (2003)

This romantic Bollywood movie starring Shah Rukh Khan was extensively shot in the beautiful destination of Greece. Its famous romantic number, 'tauba tumhare yeh ishare,' was shot around Athens University, Lycabetos Hill, the Olympic Stadium and concludes on the picturesque island of Mykonos.

DIRECTOR: AZIZ MIRZA FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, MYKONOS

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TINTIN ET LE MYSTERE DE LA TOISON D'OR (1961)

The famous Belgian reporter Tintin, along with his dog Snowy (Milou) and Captain Haddock, sail to Greece in an old rust bucket called the Golden Fleece. Soon enough though, the ship's hidden secret gets them all in big trouble.

DIRECTOR: JEAN JACQUES VIERNE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALABAKA

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THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING PANTS 2 (2005)

For the first time since their friendship began, four young girls are separated for a summer. One of them, Lena, visits her grandparents in Greece and meet Kostas, with whom she falls in love...

DIRECTOR: KEN KWAPIS FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

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27 MISSING KISSES (2000)

A young woman's passion has a remarkable effect on a Russian village in this comedy-drama with fantasy elements. Sybill (Nino Kuchanidze) is a teenager who is sent to a small town in the country to spend the summer with her aunt. Despite her tender age, Sybill is ripe and sexually aware, and while the initial object of her attention is Alexander (Eugenji Sidichin), a widower in his early 40s, she instead pairs up with Mickey (Shalva Iashvili), Alexander's teenage son.

DIRECTOR: NANA DZHORDZHAZDE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALAVRYTA

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40 CARATS (1973)

A forty-year-old conservative divorcee Manhattan realtor finds herself attracted (while on holidays in Greece) to a twenty-two year old New Yorker and they spend the night together. She then turns to New York and she is stunned to learn that he is her daughter's boyfriend. He then pursue her, and is uncertain of what to do...

DIRECTOR: MILTON KATSELAS

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FANTASIES (1981)

Set on Mykonos Island, the story is about a sister (Bo Derek) and brother (Peter Hooten), who return home after years abroad. Falling under the island's erotic spell, the girl and boy discover that their love goes beyond filial. The incestuous nature of the story evaporates when it is discovered that the two aren't actually related after all.

DIRECTOR: JOHN DEREK

Other destinations

View of Mikrolimano in Piraeus, with many boats and sailing boats at dusk

Elefsina 

Visit Athens Greece - Athens City Guide

N°1 athens travel guide - tips for sightseeing, tourism and athens city.

Athens

All sighstseeing, tourist attractions information and tips for your city break in Athens Greece such as visiting the sights and highlights. What to visit in Athens city in Greece? Your trip starts with travel guide AthensLover.com

Tips for your city trip to Athens (Greece)

Well prepared for a trip to Athens? On this website you will find all the information you need before booking a city trip to Athens Greece. Athens is a large and historic city with a lot to see and experience. What are the real must-sees and hidden gems of Athens city? Here you will find all information about attractions , the nicest neighbourhoods, excursions , museums and tickets. Have a nice trip in Athens and Greece !

Athens is the capital of Greece . It is also the largest city in the country. Athens (in Greek: Αθήνα) is located in the Attica region and is also the administrative center of it. You can divide the capital into seven different city districts. Athens is one of the most important cities in Greece. This is because the political and economic center of the country is located here. More than 4 million inhabitants live in Athens city. The name Athens is derived from the name of the Greek goddess Athena. The city of Athens was already an important place in ancient times. The ancient city is unique because it was the first democracy. The Greek citizens were allowed to participate in politics. In ancient Athens, several wars were fought against the Persians. Because of this, many of the well-known buildings and monuments have partly been destroyed and perished. Ancient Athens is also known as a city that produced many philosophers, such as Plato, Aristotle and Socrates. As a result, the city of Athens became an important center for culture, art and philosophy.

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Sightseeing in Athens Greece

What to visit in Athens city? The capital of Greece is full of ancient monuments, temples, ruins and churches. For lovers of ancient Greece, this city is a paradise. You really have to see the Acropolis . This hill in the middle of Athens has some of the most important archaeological monuments. Throughout the city, however, you will find remains of temples and other monuments. Many of these are dedicated to the ancient Greek gods.

The capital of Greece also has plenty of museums. The Acropolis museum and the National Archaeological Museum are perhaps the best known. The National Archaeological Museum, for example, has the largest collection of ancient Greek art in the entire country. Furthermore, Athens Greece has many more larger and smaller museums that are specialized in a type of art or an era of history. The capital of Greece is also a pleasant city with several squares such as Monastiráki Square where you will also find a large shopping street. So there is something for everyone to experience during an Athens city trip.

Top 20 Attractions in Athens

Athens travel guide

Districts of Athens city

Athens city has many different neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and culture. Every neighborhood is unique and sometimes it feels like you've ended up in a completely different city. For example, the Pláka district is busy, cozy and touristy, while the picturesque Anafiótika district is quiet and full of locals. Monastiráki is the most central district with several monuments, the long shopping street Ermeu and numerous shops and restaurants, including near Monastiráki Square. In the evening, the alternative Psirri district full of street art is a cozy neighborhood or the Gázi district, known for its nightlife.

Transport in Athens Greece

Athens has one major airport: Elefthérios Venizélos airport. From this airport you are in the center within half an hour. The centre of Athens is quite large and contains several neighborhoods. Because of the hilly area everything can therefore be difficult to walk. Fortunately, you can move around the city by public transport or taxis. The most used form of public transport is the metro . In addition, you can also use the tram, train or bus in the Athens area. In addition, public transport is also fairly cheap. You can buy a single ticket or buy a day or week ticket. This gives you unlimited use of public transport. This is ideal if you want to see a lot of the city of Athens in a short time. Metro and bus stations are close by to many of the well-known Athens sights .

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Acropolis Athens

The absolute number 1 attraction of Athens city is without a doubt the Acropolis. The mountain is centrally located in the city and you will find the Parthenon here; the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Read our useful tourism tips for visiting the Acropolis.

Top 20 Athens attractions

20x Places to visit in Athens

What to visit in Athens? In this article an overview of the most important sights, museums and activities for your city trip to Athens. From the Acropolis to the Ancient Agora and from the touristic Plaka to the Acropolis Museum.

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Tourism Athens Greece

Archaeological sites

Besides the Acropolis, the capital has many other archaeological sites. Learn about six other areas such as the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Kerameikos or Hadrian's Library.

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Museums in Athens

Museum lover? Then Athens city is the right place for you. Besides the famous Acropolis Museum and the huge National Archaeological Museum, the city has many other museums such as a Byzantine museum, th e Benaki museum or the Hellenic Motor Museum.

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  • Public transport

Although you can easily reach many sights on foot, it can sometimes be easy to use public transport to visit Athens sights. For example, the city has an excellent and affordable metro network to visit places such as the port of Piraeus.

Tours Athens Greece

Day Trips from Athens

When you stay a little longer in the capital of Greece, it can be interesting to make a day trip in the area. For example, visit Delphi, the Temple of Poseidon or take a boat trip to the Saronic islands of Hydra, Poros or Aegina.

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Best time to visit Athens city

The capital of Greece has a Mediterranean climate where it is often very hot in summers and mild in winters. In summer temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees. In winter it is usually no warmer than 13 degrees. You can also expect rain or snow in the colder months. During an Athens vacation you will probably want to see a lot of the city and its history. So it's not a typical beach holiday. Therefore, it is not recommended to visit Athens Greece during July and August. It can be 30 to 40 degrees. Also in June it is regularly very warm. The best months to visit Athens are therefore March, April, May, September and October. In these months it is often still warm, but not too hot to walk through the city and enjoy the Athens tourism. There is then a pleasant summer climate. In these months it is the high season to visit the city. This means: it can be very busy. Do you want to avoid this crowd? Then come at the beginning or end of the high season. You can also visit Athens Greece in winter, but there is a chance of bad weather and rain.

Video: Visiting Athens - Sightseeing & Tourism

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Things to do in Athens

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Acropolis: Tours & Tickets

Athens city pass

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Athens—a cradle of western civilization, the birthplace of drama and democracy—is one of those places that resonate with historic importance. But as you take in the glow of antiquity (perched atop a plateau, the stately, elegant Acropolis is visible from most places in the city), Athens’ present-day energy will sweep you up and ask you to eat, drink, dance, sing, talk, and be merry. Local culture is friendly, energetic, and in the face of the country’s ongoing crisis, often enterprising and community-based. Explore and enjoy the city’s many facets.

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Acropolis, Athens

Constantinos Kollias

When’s the best time to go to Athens?

Athens is always inspiring, but it’s very hot in high summer, a time when locals who can decamp to the islands every weekend and for most of August. The best times for city visits are thus April to mid-June and again between early September and November, when days are more bearable, nights are still balmy, and the tourist rush isn’t crushing. In the spring blossoms pop open throughout the city and locals fill the outdoor tavernas with new energy; in the fall a lovely light bathes the city’s whitewashed buildings and glistens on the sea.

How to get around Athens

A cab from the airport to the city center runs about 35 euros during the day and 50 at night; a commuter train (Metro Line 3) also run to Syntagma Station every half-hour for around 10 euros. Once in Athens, the subway is sparkling and efficient, if not particularly wide-reaching (the subway was built for the Athens Olympics in 2004, but archeology precludes a dense network). Buses are plentiful if erratic, and be warned that the city’s few trams are painfully slow. Cabs are inexpensive, but be aware that many cabbies don’t speak great English (locals recommend the TaxiBeat app). Have your destinations in writing to show your driver in a pinch.

Can’t miss things to do in Athens

  • No one should visit Athens without ascending the Acropolis. The complex sits atop a plateau in the center of the city, dotted with far more archeological attractions than just the Parthenon. Take at least half a day to explore the area and drink in the view (depending on season, it can also be very hot, so drink plenty of water, too).
  • On the way down from the Parthenon, stroll through the labyrinthine streets of the Plaka.The Monastiraki flea market offers a buzzing look into Greek culture; the National Archeology Museum gives a broad look into Greek culture.
  • It’s not sexy or posh, but one hub of the Greek capital is undeniably the Piraeus Port: Watching the huge ferries and ships arrive, load, and depart is strangely meditative and transcendental.

Food and drink to try in Athens

Greek cuisine is easy to underestimate—but once you’ve eaten it, hard to forget. Ingredients are simple (a Greek salad is, after all, just tomatoes, cubed cukes, feta, and olive oil) but it’s the quality, and salt-of-the-earth flavor that surprise and satisfy the tastebuds. Baked dishes are hearty, with lamb the meat of choice. Fish and seafood are utterly sublime, as would be expected considering the omnipresent sea. Herbs and spices are often homegrown, and try local iterations of ouzo and raki to cleanse your palate between courses. Remember, Greeks usually eat communally. End your meal with a dessert dripping with local honey, like baklava, to ensure sweet dreams.

Culture in Athens

Cultural history is inescapable in Athens, and we’re talking about classical history going back millennia. At the same time, the city absolutely vibrates with contemporary culture as well, including live music, the visual and performing arts, design and fashion, all produced and heartily consumed by young Greeks alongside an increasing faction of expats settling here. Framing it all is both a strong bohemian, DIY art scene as well as evidence of wealthy patronage—recently built world-class cultural centers carry names like Onassis and Niarchos.

For Families

As chaotic as Athens can be, the Greek capital is a wonderful place to discover with children. Take older offspring to see the city’s endless classical treasures (before arriving, it’s a good idea read about Greek mythology to set up anticipation and understanding); smaller ones always enjoy a day at the city’s beaches, a break in the National Gardens, or an outing to the zoo. And because Greeks are a family-oriented people, kids are generally welcome in restaurants and tavernas, sometimes way past bedtime. Context Travel, a partner of AFAR, conducts special family tours of the Parthenon and Acropolis that includes skip-the-line tickets and a guide who specializes both in Greek history and kids.

Local travel tips for Athens

  • Traveling in yellow cabs hailed from the street can be harrowing. Locals use the Taxi Beat app instead, and its drivers are more likely to speak English.
  • And the best place to grab water, snacks, newspapers, tobacco, or even cheese sandwiches is the ubiquitous Greek kiosk. These small hut-like stands are found all over on street corners. They’ve been an Athenian urban tradition for more than a century; and usually stay in the families operating them for decades.

Local Resources

  • This is Athens
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Guide Editor

Rachel Howard and Kimberly Bradley .

With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, the

The Ultimate Athens Travel Guide

A thens, the illustrious capital of Greece with a tapestry of more than 5,000 years of history, unfurls its magic piece by piece. With this ultimate Athens travel guide , you will have the chance to be a part of an exhilarating journey. You can commence with a visit to the iconic Acropolis and the esteemed Acropolis Museum to behold the revered ancient treasures. Subsequently, you can walk through the charming narrow streets of Plaka or Psiri , engaging in lively encounters with the locals. If you visit Athens in the spring or autumn, you are certain to have a spectacular time. Even a mere three days in Athens are enough to experience the time of your life .

As we can see, there are a lot of things to see and do in Athens . Let’s dive into the complete Athens travel guide to this mesmerizing and historic city in Greece.

Things to see and do in Athens

things to do and see in athens

Athens, a city known for its rich culture and historic significance, is a time capsule of classical civilization. Immersing yourself in the Acropolis Museum , the National Archaeological Museum, and a stroll through the quaint Anafiotika neighborhood will transport you back through the annals of time. Some of the most important must-sees in Athens include:

Visit the Acropolis

panorama athens with acropolis and green hills around

The Acropolis, a monumental 5th-century BC citadel perched above the vibrant capital of Greece, is a testament to the city’s ancient glory. The Acropolis hilltop is home to a collection of significant historical structures and ruins, including the grand Propylaea, the sacred Temple of Athena Nike, and, most notably, the iconic Parthenon. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as an indispensable visit. Moreover, during the summer months, a variety of plays come to life in the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Admission is approximately 20 euros per person, or 30 euros for a comprehensive 5-day pass that grants access to numerous other archaeological wonders. For those desiring a deeper exploration, a guided walking tour is available for around 50 euros. Finally, to elevate your visit, Greece Insiders offers exclusive private experiences of the Acropolis, ensuring a personal and unforgettable encounter with this cornerstone of ancient history.

Visit the Acropolis Museum

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum inaugurated in 2009, resides in a sleek, contemporary edifice, meticulously crafted to showcase the archaeological marvels within. The museum’s centerpiece is a striking glass floor, inviting you to walk above the remnants of an ancient Athenian neighborhood. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter over 4,000 unearthed treasures, including exquisite sculptures, intricate pottery, and a myriad of other historical artifacts.  Admission fees start from 10 euros.

National Archaeological Museum

National Archaeological Museum Athens front view

A visit to Athens would be incomplete without exploring the esteemed National Archaeological Museum. Established in the 19th century, this museum is a sanctuary for one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. As you wander through its grand halls, you’ll be greeted by five primary permanent collections, encompassing a vast array of prehistoric relics, masterful sculptures, delicate metalwork, an array of vases, and minor arts, along with Egyptian and Cypriot antiquities. Among the museum’s most astonishing exhibits is the 2,000-year-old Antikythera mechanism, often hailed as the world’s first analog “computer”, retrieved from the depths of a shipwreck. Allocate at least a half-day to immerse yourself in the wonders housed here.

Hike in Lycabettus

panorama View of Lycabettus mount from Acropolis hill in Athens

Steeped in myth, Mount Lycabettus stands as a towering testament to the ancient Greek legend of the goddess Athena, who is said to have placed this limestone giant amidst the city. When the weather is nice, you can enjoy a beautiful hike up the 277-meter hill, the zenith of Athens. The panoramic views from this vantage point are simply breathtaking. At the peak, treat yourself to a cool, refreshing drink at the café, and if your timing is right, catch an exhilarating concert at the open-air theater that comes alive in the summer months.

Walk around the historic sites

In the heart of Plaka, also known as the “Neighborhood of Gods,” you’ll find yourself wandering amidst the ancient ruins of old Athens. Nestled near the Acropolis, this area is considered the most enchanting part of the city. Here, you’ll discover the timeworn splendors of the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, the majestic Olympieion, Thisio, and Kerameikos. During your visit, seize the opportunity to spend a magical evening meandering through these sites, where history whispers in every corner.

Walk through Anafiotika

Built in the 19th century, Anafiotika is a quaint neighborhood perched on the northern slopes of Acropolis Hill. Ideally situated near the Agora entrance and hovering above the charm of Plaka, it remains a serene oasis, untouched by the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque location, with its whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and charming little sidewalk eateries, exudes the idyllic vibe of the Greek islands. As you walk around this area, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a timeless tranquility, where it feels as if the world has paused just for a moment.

What else can you see and do in Athens?

thiseio narrow streets athens local tourist shops

Athens is a city celebrated for its rich cultural and historic charm. The renowned Acropolis Museum, the prestigious National Archaeological Museum, and a stroll through the picturesque Anafiotika neighborhood are gateways to the city’s storied past. Among the essential must-sees in Athens, include:

  • Discover the Propylaea Athens: On the western slope of the Acropolis hill, where the gate of the Mycenaean defense formerly stood, the Propylaea of the Parthenon were constructed. This gate was most likely constructed to strengthen the Acropolis’ defenses. The name of this entrance honors French archaeologist Ernest Belule, who discovered it behind Turkish fortifications.
  • Witness the Easter Vigil: If you find yourself in Athens over the Easter weekend, make sure not to miss this fascinating procession of vigils. Each year on Good Friday, tens of thousands of people form a candle-lit march throughout the city. Go to Lycabettus Hill and follow the masses up to the church of St. George, a truly captivating experience.

Is Athens a walkable city?

People walking through Monastiraki square

Yes, Athens is indeed a walkable city. Regarded as one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in Greece, Athens, much like other European capitals, offers the best sightseeing experiences on foot. By strolling through its streets, you’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and experience the authentic day-to-day life of the locals.

How can you get around Athens?

Athens street transportation with tour bus, trolley, cars, taxi and public transportation

Besides walking, there are many ways you can get around Athens, such as using public transport, taking a taxi, or even cycling around the city. Below are all the ways, you can explore Athens at your leisure:

Public transport

Public transport in Athens is affordable and reliable. The subway is the easiest and fastest way to roam around. Additionally, a network of trams, buses, and suburban railways are at your service. There are also many trams, buses, and suburban railways. Tickets can be used on all types of public transport, cost about 1.20 euros, and are valid for 90 minutes.

For more extensive travel needs, there’s the unlimited pass at approximately 4.10 euros, or a five-day pass for 8.20 euros, offering great value for more extended stays. Also, the express bus service from the airport is priced at 6 euros each way. Alternatively, the subway, costing 9 euros each way, will conveniently transport you to the city center in about an hour.

For the adventurous souls unphased by Athens’ bustling streets, bike rentals offer a delightful and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Typical bike rentals begin at around 12 euros per day, with electric bicycles available at a higher rate for an even smoother ride.

Taxis provide a swift and convenient means of transportation, though they can be pricier. When opting for a taxi, ensure that the meter is running – it’s a legal requirement. Be vigilant with taxi drivers, as some may attempt to overcharge. The meter should display “1” during daytime hours. The “2” setting, indicating double rates, applies only from midnight to 6 a.m. Finally, it has become a mandatory legal requirement for all taxis to be equipped with a POS (Point Of Sale) system effective from January 1st, 2024.

Renting a car can be an economical option for those looking to venture beyond the city limits. It’s an ideal choice for exploring the wider region. Drivers are required to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver’s license for a minimum of one year, making it a practical choice for many travelers.

How many days in Athens is enough?

If you want to visit Athens, 1-3 days in the city are enough, but this number of days depends on how much time you need to arrive in the city. The city’s key attractions, including the awe-inspiring Acropolis, the informative Acropolis Museum, and the historic treasures scattered around Plaka, can be explored in a single day with strategic planning. If Athens serves as your gateway to further Greek adventures, such as island-hopping, a one-day visit can capture the essence of the city. However, to delve deeper into Athens’ captivating tourist spots, a leisurely three-day stay is recommended. Regardless of your time frame, embarking on a guided tour will enrich your experience, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant culture and delectable food scene.

Remember : It’s crucial to factor in the time required for travel between destinations. So, if you travel from a long distance (for example USA) you might find it necessary to allocate a few additional days to fully complete your trip.

What is the best month to visit Athens, Greece?

Reservations for Athens should be made from March through November, with the best times to visit being in the spring and fall. This is because the weather during these months is not too cold or hot, with the days being predominantly sunny. Additionally, the city is less crowded during these seasons, making it easier to find attractive deals on hotels and airfare, unlike the busy summer period. If you want to summer travel to Greece , you should probably equip yourself with lots of sunscreen. 

However, visiting in the winter season can also offer its unique charm. Winter in Athens is mild, with the average temperature being 10°C, thanks to Greece’s advantageous location along the Mediterranean. The months between June and August are known for the high temperatures and the large number of tourists, so sightseeing can get a bit challenging at times. Nevertheless, a winter holiday visit to Athens can be delightful, especially at Christmas, as you can take part in Greek traditional holiday festivities.

How can you save money in Athens?

As in other European cities, in Greece, there are many ways that you can risk overspending. If you would like to travel on a budget, consider some of these savvy tips:

  • Opt for off-peak seasons: Avoid planning your Athens adventure during the summer high season when flights and accommodations tend to be pricier.
  • Explore Athens on foot : Athens is a remarkably walkable city, especially in the central areas. Exploring on foot not only helps you save money on transportation but also allows you to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes, and you’ll be all set to embark on a memorable journey.

Extra tip: For guaranteed savings, consider booking your trip several weeks or even months in advance. This can lead to more budget-friendly options for your Athens escapade.

What can you eat in Athens?

tourist guide athens

Athens’ culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering a wide array of options to satisfy every palate. From charming family-owned eateries serving up traditional recipes to upscale dining establishments nestled in the chic Kolonaki district, your taste buds are in for a treat. Whether you crave the delightful simplicity of gyros and moussaka or the exquisite complexity of gourmet Greek cuisine, Athens has it all.

For an authentic dining experience away from the tourist hubs and a glimpse into the locals’ preferences, be sure to explore neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets, and Pangrati. One important cultural note: Greeks typically enjoy their dinners around 9 p.m., so plan your dining accordingly.

Want to gauge a restaurant’s pricing? Look no further than the salad and bread test. If the bread cover costs around 1 euro and salads are priced between 7-8 euros, you’re in for an affordable dining experience. For establishments where the bread cover is approximately 1.5 euros and salads range from 8-9 euros, expect moderate prices. For other price ranges, you might be venturing into the realm of upscale dining.

Is Athens safe for tourists?

Athens is a safe city. A great part of the city is pedestrianized, and there are usually a lot of people walking around. While navigating crowded spaces, it’s advisable to remain vigilant against pickpockets. Solo travelers can enjoy solitary moments at restaurants, bars, and iconic landmarks without a hint of apprehension.

For female solo travelers, Greece emerges as a secure haven. The consensus among many female visitors is that Greece, as a whole, welcomes solo female travelers with open arms, provided that standard precautions are observed.

How not to be rude in Greece?

The Greek people are known for their hospitality and generosity. This hospitality goes back to ancient times when people believed that a guest who came to your doorstep could be a god in disguise. Moreover, Greeks are very generous in extending invitations to social events. An invitation to have coffee with them may lead to an invitation to dinner. If you want to be polite to Greeks and not seem rude, consider the following guidelines:

  • Greek people use verbose and theatrical language. Sometimes, this communication style can seem a bit exaggerated. Although, It is also very common for people to merge the discussion with other thoughts they have. In cases like these, interpretation is common, but it’s advisable to avoid this practice whenever possible.

Is Athens worth visiting?

Yes! Athens is worth visiting. Athens is a top-rated destination adorned with a wealth of historical sites. From the iconic Acropolis to the enchanting streets of Plaka and Psiri, each location exudes a distinctive ambience that promises to transform your perspective on the world.

This Athens travel guide invites you, to embark on an extraordinary journey, allowing you to tailor your stay to your desires and create remarkable memories. If you choose to explore this captivating city during the enchanting seasons of spring or autumn, be prepared to fall deeply in love with its charms. Reach out to us, and let us assist you in curating the ideal itinerary for your perfect trip.

tourist guide athens

2024 Athens Travel Guide: Explore Greece's Capital Like a Local

tourist guide athens

Key Takeaways :

  • Athens is a fabulous year-round destination and following this Athens travel guide will reveal why.
  • Central Athens is the best place to stay when visiting the Greek capital.
  • The Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus are some of the most significant archaeological sites of the city.
  • A walk around the historical center will allow you to admire the landmarks and architecture of Athens .

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The enchanting view of sunny Athens, Greece,  from the top of the Acropolis . The sparkling waters of the city's extraordinary beaches.

The luscious taste of traditional Greek and Athens flavors . The buoyant nightlife and the overpowering sense of freedom its diversity gives you.

All that and many more are why an Athens travel guide will become the most significant tool during a trip to Greece,  even for the most experienced travelers .

There is no doubt that you won't help but fall in love with Athens, the largest city in Greece, from the moment you step foot in it, whether you're visiting Greece in winter or summer. The Greek islands can wait; visit Athens, and you won't regret straying from the path of other travelers!

If exploring Athens seems like a daunting task, it's because it is: there is much stuff to see, taste, do, and experience and even the locals get overwhelmed from time to time.

But, lucky for you, we have accumulated the ultimate Athens travel guide for you to experience the historic city to the fullest; as born and bred Athenians in love with their home city, it is our responsibility to make you see Athens from rose-colored glasses, even if you are first-time visitors.  

So if you want Athens travel tips, keep on reading!

When to travel to Athens

Greece is mainly advertised as a summer destination. The reasons why make a strong case: its delightfully warm climate, sandy beaches, and hundreds of breathtaking Greek islands are more than enough to deem Greece the ultimate summer haven people dream of visiting.

However, although no one can deny the beauty of the Greek islands and the mainland under the bright sunlight, it is common ground that during the high-season period between late June and late August, Greece -and some of the Greek islands in particular- attract too much attention and get overwhelmingly crowded, which may affect your overall experience.

If you're an extroverted, social individual that draws energy from the crowds, don't think twice when booking your summer holidays. However, if you prefer a more offbeat scene, you're probably better off opting for late spring or early autumn for your holidays.

In spring and autumn

Anywhere between late April and the beginning of June or the whole month of September in Athens will allow you to experience the blissful Greek summer unobstructed by the hustle and bustle of the tourist waves flooding the country; the best of both worlds!

On the other hand, this Athens travel guide will reveal to you a well-kept secret: Greece can also serve as an exquisite winter destination. Greece in January is superb, not to mention that Christmas in Greece is out of this world!

Apart from the numerous Greek islands, the country's mainland hides regions of incomparable beauty. What's more, Athens is a gorgeous all-year-round destination that will give you plenty of tour options and activity alternatives.  

Therefore, it is guaranteed that the diversity of the Greek land and Athens, in particular, offers a unique landscape that can wow even the most experienced of travelers. 

Where to stay in Athens

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Spoiler alert: Athens is a big city; remember: it even hosted the largest temple of the ancient world. As a result, although it is easy to navigate, as, with any trip and destination, accommodation is a crucial issue in determining whether you'll experience your host city most advantageously.

Of course, choosing to reside in central Athens is the most brilliant move you can make; you'll be within walking distance of the most important landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum , and probably right next to a means of public transportation from where you'll be able to explore the rest of the city.

If you're more of a practical person, here are our top Athens travel guide hotel recommendations for downtown Athens, Greece, depending on the district you choose to be based on and the amount of luxury you want. It also includes some of the best romantic hotels in Athens , the best luxury hotel in Athens , and beach hotels in Athens , so make sure to take notes!

Please note that all rooms have electrical outlets in Greece, which may not be compatible with your devices. For that reason, it'd be wise to bring an adaptor with you to be on the safe side:

For 5-star hotels

In Syntagma

Electra Metropolis

Athens Capital Center

In Acropolis and Plaka

Electra Palace Athens

Athens Was Hotel

AVA Hotel & Suites

Divani Palace Acropolis

COCO-Mat Athens BC Hotel

For 4-star hotels

Elia Ermou 

Electra Hotel

Blend Hotel

Perianth Hotel

Athens Ikon

Athens Gate Hotel

Niche Hotel Athens

Herodion Hotel

For 3-star hotels

Niki Athens Hotel

Attalos Hotel

Acropolis View Hotel

Acropolis Hill Hotel

Philippos Hotel

Acropolis Select  

Of course, you can always check our Greek hotels  page, where we showcase the best hotels all over Athens and the rest of the country. Even more than this Athens travel guide mentions.  

Where to go 

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Now that is a loaded question. There are such a plethora of places in Athens that deserve your time and attention that no matter how many days you may have at your disposal, you're guaranteed to fill them to the brim, as in Athens, you can find some of the best deals regarding sightseeing adventures.

Covering all possible fields, from history, nature, the most Instagram-friendly spots in Athens, and the top walking routes in Athens , to the cultural, gastronomical, architectural, and entertainment treasures the Greek capital offers in abundance, everyone is bound to find what they're looking for and then some!  

In an effort to avoid overwhelming you with my boundless rambling, in this Athens travel guide, we've broken down the places in Athens, Greece, you should unquestionably visit in the categories below. Organized much?

Top Athens Attractions

A bit about athens' history in ancient greece.

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First and foremost, as you've probably already guessed, comes the rich heritage of Athens that goes back to ancient Greece, evident in every corner of the city. Athens’ history begins in the Neolithic and Mycenaean times.

The ancient city was built in the middle of the basin, around the hills of Pnyka hill, Areopagus (Mars Hill), and Philopappou Hill. You can read more about it in our Athens travel guide .

The Parthenon , the imposing temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that decorates the top of the Acropolis, became the symbol of Athenian democracy in ancient Greece and created a new model in Athens architecture.

Then, on the hill of Pnyx, Apostle Paul proclaimed in 53 AD the new religion, Christianity, in front of the members of the Supreme Court.

The first small Christian community was created under the guidance of Bishop Dionysius Areopagite , the later patron saint of our city. Finally, Athens became the capital of Greece in 1834, replacing Nafplio.

As you can see, through the years, Athens, Greece, has undergone many drastic changes that have led it to be what it is right now, offering its visitors an abundance of major landmarks in Greece from different eras.

You can read our ultimate guide to the top things to do in Athens if you need a more thorough guide around the impressive historical landmarks of the city. However, for your convenience, here is a shortlist of the most significant archaeological sites in Athens.

Our only rule of thumb for every one of them is to arrive early enough to avoid large crowds and unbearable heat.

Acropolis of Athens

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The Acropolis of Athens, often also referred to as the 'sacred rock,' is probably Athens's most widespread archeological monument of ancient Greece and one of the city's major sites.

No Athens travel guide would be complete without it. Thousands of travelers and locals climb its steep hill every year to get a glimpse of Greece's glorious past.

Since the Acropolis' establishment in the 5th century BC in honor of goddess Athena, Athens' patron and the daughter of Olympian Zeus, it has remained the most emblematic element of the capital.

Acropolis' Monuments

Perched at the top of the Acropolis of Athens, you will find the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, where the infamous battle between Poseidon and Athena allegedly took place.

At the same time, on your way to the top of the Acropolis, you will come across some of Athens' most noteworthy monuments and archaeological sites, such as the Propylaia, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus, the oldest theater in the city.

If you visit Athens' famous Acropolis hill, don't forget to combine it with a visit to the striking Acropolis Museum, which is within walking distance for a comprehensive immersion into the ancient Greek world .

Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos

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A breath of fresh air amidst the urban jungle of Athens, the Ancient Cemetery of Kerameikos is ideal for long walks and, therefore, another of Athens' major sites you don't want to miss during your visit to Athens. It served as Athens' cemetery from the 12th century BC to the Roman Times.

If you visit the Kerameikos Cemetery in Athens, don't forget to also pay a visit to the Kerameikos Museum, where the findings from the excavations of the archeological site are on display, including stelae, sculptures, vases, and figurines found on the site.

Philopappos Hill

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Philopappos Hill is located southwest of Acropolis Hill, offering a mesmerizing, undisturbed view of the imposing Parthenon from one side and the whole of Athens from the other.

The hill took its current name after Philopappos, a Syrian benefactor of Athens, who was a close friend to many philosophers such as Plutarch, who described him in his writings as an 'extremely generous person.'

His death caused great sorrow to the citizens of Athens, who built a mausoleum as a dedication to honor his memory. The mausoleum survives to this day, perched on the top of the hill.

Philopappos hill is admittedly one of the best places in Athens, Greece, for long leisurely walks, especially during spring and early summer. If you take one of the hill's many pathways, you will enjoy a wide variety of flora and a rare serenity.

Who knows, maybe you'll even get to meet the famous Muses that, according to legend, used to have this hill of Athens as their home! 

Ancient Agora 

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The Ancient Agora of Athens was the heart of the ancient city: a large, open area that constituted the seat of justice, the political, economic, administrative, social, religious, and cultural center of Athens. Please beware that the Ancient and Roman agoras are sometimes mistakenly thought to be the same thing when, in fact, there are two separate archeological sites of great importance.

Ancient Agora's buildings

Excavations in Athens have brought to light many important buildings, such as the council chamber (Bouleuterion), public administration buildings (Royal Stoa and South Stoa), judges' offices, the mint, and the city's official archives (Mitroon).

Additionally, the Ancient Agora used to host the national library and the conservatory that covered the cultural requirement of the citizens.

The famous 'Stoa of Attalos' is also located within the Ancient Agora. Built by the king of Pergamon, Attalos, as a gift to the Athenians for allowing him to study there, the Stoa of Attalos became the main commercial building of Athens' Ancient Agora; it was rebuilt between 1953 and 1956 and has been used as a museum ever since.

See? Now you can tell the Ancient and Roman Agoras apart!

The Temple of Hephaestus and Athena

Another fantastic monument of the Ancient Agora in Athens we couldn't exclude in this Athens travel guide is the Temple of Hephaestus and Athena, which is also the best-preserved temple of Athens. It follows the Doric style of architecture and is located on the northwest side of the market, at the top of Agoraios Kolonos hill.

It was built with the famous Pentelic marble by the architect of the Parthenon, Iktinos, during the second half of the 5th century BC and has many sculptures in its decoration.

On the east facade are the Heracles tribes, and on the north and south sides are the tribes of Theseus. According to historical Pausanias, the temple housed bronze statues of Hephaestus and Athena.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

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The Temple of Olympian Zeus was the largest temple of Greece during the Hellenistic and Roman years, with its construction having begun in 515 BC and ending in 132 AD by Hadrian. This Roman emperor became a citizen and benefactor.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is made of Pentelic marble and follows a Corinthian architectural style. Its length exceeds 100 meters, and its width is 40. As for its famous columns, they used to be 104. In total, they were 17 meters high and 2.6 meters in diameter, each weighing 364 tons!

From 500 AD, the largest temple of antiquity gradually collapsed. The pillars of the Temple of Olympian Zeus began to fall. Until the beginning of the 19th century, only 16 were standing up, but one terrible storm in 1852 threw another one, which still stands today in the middle of the ancient ruins. 

The Arch of Hadrian

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Right across the street, within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Arch of Hadrian was erected in ancient Athens in 132 AD by the Athenians in honor of Emperor Hadrian for his various contributions, which served as a limit between the old and the new city.

The monument, 18 meters high by 13 meters wide, featured two inscriptions on the arch, facing opposite directions, naming both Theseus and Hadrian as founders of Athens. 

First time visitors to the Temple of Olympian Zeus shouldn't overlook Hadrian's arch. They are so close to one another it would really be a pity.

Please keep in mind that Hadrian's arch and Hadrian's Library are two separate historical monuments, with Hadrian's Library being located in Monastiraki square.

Panathenaic Stadium

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The Panathenaic Stadium is where the modern revival of the Olympic Games -aka the modern Olympics- took place there in 1896. Moreover, it remains where the Olympic Flame is being delivered during all Olympic games worldwide.

It is located at the site of an ancient Greek Stadium and demonstrates the key features of one: a rectangular shape with an entrance from one narrow side and a place for spectators on the slopes of the other three sides.

Despite its glamor during ancient times, it was abandoned with the predominance of the Christian religion and the banning of idolatrous events and barbarous spectacles of Roman times.

The excessive expense for the stadium's refurbishment was mainly taken over by a national benefactor, George Averoff, for whom Athens built a marble statue that today can be found to the right of the Stadium's main entrance.

Archaeological investigations since 1836 have revealed traces of the ancient stage, and the reconstruction of the Pentelic marble stadium is distinguished by its fidelity to a large extent to the monument of Herodes in ancient Athens.

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

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The Temple of Olympian Zeus is not the only impressive temple in Athens. Approximately 2 hours outside Athen's heart, you can visit Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon , a true architectural masterpiece and one of the best places in Greece to enjoy a sunset from was built around 444-440 BC.

For three centuries, the sanctuary was considered sacred, and a grandiose four-yearly festival was organized there with officials sailing the sea around it in a sacred ship. 

The vertical columns of the ruined temple, the magical landscape, and the relaxing atmosphere you can bask in at the southernmost tip of Athens, Greece, offer a romantic setting of unmatched beauty, making Sounio the perfect spot to visit in the company of your significant other.

Roman Agora

The Roman Agora is located close to the Ancient Agora, only a few hundred meters to the east. It is a rectangular courtyard full of shops and storerooms that served as the city's marketplace in ancient Athens.

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Roman Agoran, in contrast with the Ancient Agora, consisted of a large, open-air courtyard surrounded by colonnades on all four sides.

There were a series of shops on the eastern side, and on the southern side was a fountain. The main entrance was on the west, called 'Gate of Athena Archegetis,' and a second entrance was on the east.

Tower of the Winds

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Just a few meters away from the east enclosure of the Roman Agora, you can find the Tower of the Winds, a 12-meter high octagonal building, the name of which comes from the personifications of the eight winds that are sculptured on the friezes of the building's eight sides.  

Inside the construction, there is a brilliantly designed water clock. On the outside, there is a sundial and a weather vane.

Museums of Athens

It comes as no surprise that Athens has some of the most captivating museums in the world due to its abounding heritage and impressive ancient ruins that date all the way back to ancient Athens. The Acropolis alone has filled several museums around the world.

Realizing you probably don't have time to visit each and every single one of them, here we have a shortlist of our top picks that we would strongly suggest everyone visit before leaving Athens. This is not the place to save money:

The Acropolis Museum

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Yes, the obvious choice tops this list. Positioned just 280 meters away from the Parthenon, with almost 4,000 exhibits masterfully composing the permanent exhibition, the Acropolis Museum is a must-see attraction you should make time for.

Not to toot our own horn, but it is no coincidence that Acropolis Museum was ranked 11th in TripAdvisor's 25 best museums globally and has been awarded many times for its architecture!

The brilliance of the modern Acropolis museum is clear both from the outside and from the inside, as its building portrays the architectural and mathematical concepts of the classical era in ancient  Athens, consisting of four levels that accommodate the permanent and temporary exhibitions, a restaurant, a gift shop, a multimedia center, and open spaces where you can relax and enjoy the view of the glorious Acropolis.

The exhibits

The Acropolis museum exhibits include findings from the slopes of the Acropolis hill, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, along with votive offerings to Gods, worship objects, and everyday art. 

National Archaeological Museum

Believed to be one of the most excellent museums in the world alongside the Acropolis Museum due to its ample collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity, the National Archaeological Museum lies in the alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, hosted in an imposing neoclassical building painted in vibrant yellow and red colors.

Apart from its aesthetic, the National Archaeological Museum impresses its visitors with its findings.

The National Archaeological Museum covers a broad spectrum of Greek, displaying pieces from the Neolithic era, Cycladic art, Mycenaean period, Egyptian art, post-Byzantine era, and jewels from the Hellenistic period history, leaving a lasting impression on the visitors of the National Archaeological Museum.

On National Archaeological Museum's premises, you can also find one of the top Athens attractions : a 118-year-old library with 20,000 volumes, many of which are extremely rare works on art, science, and philosophy.

Unwind from your educational experience in one of the National Archaeological Museum cafés, one located outside on the edge of the square and one situated in the heart of the museum, before paying a visit to the National Archaeological Museum gift shop for various memorabilia- what a treat!

The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens

The fascinating Museum of Cycladic Art is hosted in an exquisite neoclassical building and displays an impressive Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art collection.

Its stated mission is the study of Aegean civilization, research on prehistoric, classical, and modern Greek art, as well as its dissemination and promotion.

Its remarkable collections contain approximately 3.000 objects of Cycladic, Ancient Greek, and Cypriot art. More than 500 are presented online, together with a brief introduction of the significant periods of Aegean and Cypriot archeology, essential topics, and a list of available resources.

The Benaki Museum

Another museum you can't leave off your itinerary during your trip to Athens is the famous Benaki Museum.

Founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis in memory of his father Emmanuel Benakis, the museum aims, as its website suggests, to 'preserve and make accessible as widely as possible its diverse collections; to support research onto history, archaeology and the study of material culture, architecture, photography, visual and performing arts, and literature.'

Hosted in the mansion of the Benaki family in the center of Athens, the museum exhibits Greek works of art from prehistorical to modern times while it entertains periodic exhibitions and sustains an avant-garde restoration and conservation workshop.

Over the years, the Benaki Museum has been awarded and enriched by several generous donors.  

As a result, it now includes the seaside 'Kouloura Mansion' in the southern district of Palaio Faliro that hosts Athens' Toy Museum, the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art in the neighborhood of Kerameikos, the 'Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas Gallery' in downtown Athens, the 'Benaki Museum Pireos Street Annex' on -you guessed it- Pireos Street and the 'Penelope Delta House' in Kifissia, which houses the Historical Archive Collection.

Athens Public Transportation

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In order to enjoy Athens, you first need to get to it. You don't need an Athens travel guide to tell you that. Thankfully, being the capital of Greece, Athens is pretty easy to reach regardless of where you come from and the means of private or public transportation you opt for. In any case, make sure to have travel insurance; better to be safe than sorry!

Unless you're driving to Greece  with your vehicle or a car rental , there are only two possible ways to access Athens: airplane or ferry.

In both cases, figuring your way around shouldn't be too hard since there are many signs, information stations, and willing locals to provide you with the instructions you need.

If you want to be prepared beforehand, you can follow our Athens international airport survival guide , our Piraeus port comprehensive guide , or our Rafina port survival guide , which will thoroughly educate you on how to get to your desired destination most easily and more suitably for you. 

Athens International Airport

You can reach Athens' center from Athens International Airport by boarding the X95 bus, a 24-hour express bus that terminates right next to the central Syntagma Square -on Othonos street- which doubles as the point of departure.

Still, taking the railway - both the underground (Metro) and the suburban line- is the most common and convenient way to access the center of the city. The only difference between the two means of public transportation is their terminal destination, with the suburban railway terminating outside of Athens.

Therefore, if you opt for the suburban rail, get off the train at 'Doukissis Plakentias' station and hop on the Metro for the rest of the journey to Syntagma.

Of course, grabbing a cab from Athens International Airport to Athens' city center is the easiest yet most expensive way to reach your destination.

The ride will come up to around 38€ during the daytime (05:00 – 24:00) and 54€ during the late-night and early morning hours - keep in mind that the taxi fare is double from midnight to 05.00 am.

Piraeus Port

There are many ways of reaching central Athens and its top attractions from the port of Piraeus and back. However, the user-friendly Athens Metro system is arguably one of the easiest!

All you have to do is exit Piraeus Port, take the short walk to Metro line 1 (the green one), and before you know it, you'll be walking the streets of Athens' heart.

During the summer months, because of the traffic the Greek islands have, the express tourist bus X80 runs directly from the center of Athens to the cruise terminal at Piraeus port, so depending on preference, your location, and the season you'll be visiting, you can take advantage of that as well.

Please remember that you can buy your public transport tickets at the ticket booths and ticket machines found at every station. Alternatively, download the TFA mTickets App to purchase and save tickets right to your phone.

Public Transport

When it comes to navigating the city of Athens, you have several alternatives you can choose from, including buses, the Metro (Athens subway), the ISAP (railway), and the tram.

As a quick rule of thumb, the Metro is the fastest, most modern, and most efficient one, without its competence affecting its price, as the tickets for all public transport costs the same.

Taxis 

However, if you want to waste no time figuring your way around Athens and your budget is not restricted, taking a taxi is often the way to go.

Taxi cars in Greece are yellow with a 'TAXI' sign on top; they can be found all around the city, and you can stop them by raising your hand.

When hiring a taxi, make sure the taxi meter is on, as taxi drivers are infamous for trying to overcharge their clients.

To be in the know, keep in mind that the taxi meter starts at €1.29, the minimum rate is €3.44, the rate per kilometer within the city limits is €0.74, and the rate per kilometer outside the city limits is €1.29.

To ride safely and comfortably, we highly suggest downloading the Beat app. It works exactly like Uber, with the only difference being that the rides are being delivered by professional taxi drivers who practice their profession outside the app as well.  

In any case, before reaching Athens, we highly suggest you get travel insurance to travel safely and without a worry in your mind!

Eating in central Athens 

Suppose you're familiar with Greeking.me's blog, then you know that we are die-hard foodies that take Greek gastronomy and its mind-blowing creations very seriously.

Greek cuisine is an integral part of Greek culture and an element of the country all visitors should look to try for the sake of getting acquainted with an authentic, well-rounded aspect of Greece.

From delicious and nutritious breakfast to homemade local dishes, street food, and a cult-classic cup of traditional Greek coffee, here are the absolute must-try flavors you should taste and the best places in the city to find them.

Be mindful, though; no travel insurance will cover an overly full belly!

Tip: Don't forget to check out our Athens night food tour and wine tasting tour ! We are sure you will love it.

Breakfast & Brunch

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For experienced travelers and devoted lovers of brunch, you'll be happy to know that there will be no need to ditch your favorite Sunday tradition during your time in Athens. On the contrary, you'll be presented with the favorable circumstance of trying Greek brunch dishes that put a local spin on beloved classics.

A shining example is the yummy 'Kayanas' recipe, a staple you'll stumble upon on most Athenian brunch menus. 'Kayanas' is essentially scrambled eggs cooked in olive oil with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese but can be found in many variations.

Yes, it is precisely as good as it sounds, even better actually, and if you try it, I guarantee all other types of scrambled eggs will taste bland to you.

For delectable Kayanas and other Greek brunch delicacies, you can read about the top  places for Brunch in Athens ; book a table, grab your sunglasses, and enjoy amazing brunch food in a local yard with the sun shining on you, warming your heart and body.

The Greek coffee culture

What's more, you can accompany your scrumptious food with a cup of traditional Greek Coffee, the proof that the wise saying 'less is more' applies to most things in life.

If you're a fan of a half caramel, half vanilla latte, decaf espresso heated only to 100° with nonfat milk and caramel drizzle on top, then maybe Greek coffee is not right up your street.

However, suppose you're a lover of coffee, the delicious drink responsible for the functionality of the most considerable portion of the earth's population.

In that case, I'm sure you'll appreciate the aromatic brew that has been essential in the locals' cupboards for hundreds of years, becoming part of the cultural heritage of Greece.

If you want to sip on an invigorating cup of proper Greek coffee, opt for one of the extraordinary coffee shops in Athens that will introduce you to the coffee culture of Athens and change the way you view and consume coffee for the rest of your life.

Traditional taverns 

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The general rule you should live by in Athens is simple: the more homemade local dishes you try, the merrier.

You can savor the tasty  food in Greece across the wide selection of Athens' taverns that serve long-established recipes integrated into the local culture and celebrate the riches of the Greek land.

Featuring recipes passed down through the generations; the local dishes will delight your senses regardless of your dietary plan. 

Located in the hip neighborhood of Psirri, Enastron rembles the exact image that comes to everyone's minds when hearing the phrase 'traditional Greek tavern.'

From lush homey main courses to delectable appetizers, all in generous helpings, Enastron promises to meet and exceed your culinary expectations regardless of how high they are -you're in a Mediterranean country, after all! 

Koudounaki travel guide Athens

In the same neighborhood, but this time tucked away in a small alley that gets overlooked by people who aren't in the know, Koudounaki is a family-run tavern in Athens, where two sisters put a spin on customary dishes and serve heavenly homemade offerings you've never tasted before. 

To Steki Tou Ilia

Closer to the Acropolis, in the scenic and historic district of Thissio, To Steki Tou Ilia takes its guests on a journey back to a simpler and perhaps more beautiful time. While its menu is limited and resembles what a Greek mom would cook for her children, its simplicity is what wins people over. 

Ella Greek Cooking

For a modern spin on cult-classic Greek recipes and a great meal, head over to Ella Cooking at the beginning of Mitropoleos Street, a few meters away from Syntagma Square in Athens.

Merging traditional flavors and fresh, local products with contemporary techniques and up-to-date combinations, Ella holds a special place in the locals' hearts while offering unique homemade dishes one wouldn't experience anywhere else. 

Last but not least, Dia Tafta is another traditional tavern in Athens that combines toothsome offerings with a great atmosphere. Located in the broader region of Monastiraki bordering Psirri, the name of the tavern translates to 'the conclusion/ the gist of things.'

For the owners of this local tavern, the gist of life is 'good food, good drinks, and good company', and we couldn't agree more! 

Fine Dining

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Although cozy traditional taverns are the trademark of Greece, Athens doesn't lack prestigious eateries that move Greek cuisine forward in leaps and bounds.

As a matter of fact, it is rather difficult for us to pick our favorites given the extent of Athens' selection in fine dining establishments, but as always, we'll do our best.

Before we go ahead, however, it is essential to note that fine-dining options are bound to be a lot less affordable than taverns. However, the steep prices match the quality and the experience these establishments offer.

So, although it might not be an everyday occurrence depending on your budget, it is worth celebrating a special occasion or indulging one time as a gift to yourself and your loved ones.

Speaking of indulgence, Vezene, a Greek-inspired bistro located in the heart of Athens, has managed to modernize and elevate local flavors to adapt to modern-day fine dining using high-quality, fresh local ingredients.

Vezene serves regional dishes with a contemporary spin in their taste, decorated following a trendy aesthetic that matches the restaurant's profile. The chef, butcher, and owner of the restaurant, Ari Vezené, is passionate about running his restaurant sustainably and ethically and has adopted a whole animal butchery practice. 

Another Athenian restaurant that celebrates Greek cuisine by adding a touch of sophistication to it is Vassilenas. Having opened its doors for the first time in 1920 in Piraeus as a small and simple tavern, there is no doubt that the chef has it figured out to a tee when it comes to food.

Now located in the middle of Athens, Vassilenas maintains its humble profile even though it has become one of its most acclaimed destinations for fine dining. 

Hytra is another delectable addition to Athens' fine-dining industry, having developed its gastronomic integrity based on the rich legacy of Greek gastronomy and enhancing it with a contemporary spin that involves modern upscale techniques and presentation.

With two separate menus, the 'Hytra' and the 'Hytra Apla,' the restaurant addresses two different price points with equal quality and taste. 

Offering upscale gourmet dishes to those who are looking to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, Spondi, located in the hip neighborhood of Pangrati, provides a whole other world of gourmet flavors- one you're allowed to enter only if you're willing to pay an extravagant price that however matches the extravagant offerings.

Having received multiple awards and worldwide recognition, as it is a 2-Michelin-Star restaurant and a proud member of Grande Table du Monde, there is no doubt that Spondi will be a treat for all of your senses. 

Street Food

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As a cheat meal or a hangover cure after a wild night out, we like to think that street food feeds the body and the soul in Greece. 

In our experience, very few people deny the appeal of street food, especially Greek street food. Not to mention it is an excellent and tasty way to save money during your trip to Greece.

In the case of the beloved souvlaki, however, even the most difficult of eaters and the most devoted fans of healthy eating have come around to celebrate the king of Greek street food.

The reason is simple: souvlaki is the "cleanest" fast food one can have, and you can enjoy it without guilt, while it is one of the best deals for food regarding value for money.

It consists of small pieces of meat -or vegetables if there is a vegetarian option available- enclosed within pita bread, tomatoes, onion, french fries, and tzatziki, which can sometimes be swapped for some type of sauce. The meat is usually pork or chicken, while beef and lamb may also be used.

Souvlaki is a fundamental component of Athens's cuisine; it is delicious, nutritious, and cheap, so why wouldn't it be?

Therefore, it is no surprise that the city is awash with souvlaki shops that offer their take on the beloved street food that is a part of locals' and travelers' everyday lives.

Get local insight into the best places to eat souvlaki in Athens to prepare yourself for the explosion of taste you will experience during your stay in the Greek capital. 

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For the locals, indulgent days include a breakfast consisting of a traditional pastry -usually made with 'phyllo' dough- that can be purchased from the neighborhood's bakery.

Ariston, a family-run bakery that was established in 1910 and famous for its 'shortcrust pastry cheese pies, Harry's Kitchen, a tiny shop that is a recent addition to Athens' culinary scene and offers unique homemade pie combinations meant to please even the pickiest of eater.

The shop wows its guests with the quality of its ingredients and its creativity, and it is one of the best bakeries you can find in downtown Athens that promise to change the way you look at breakfast forever!

Whether it is ' tyropita ' -cheese pie- 'bougatsa' -custard pie- or any other filling, such as chocolate, sausage, or even minced meat, I can't imagine trying any of Athens bakeries' offerings or local delicacies and regretting your choice!

Food Markets

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Given that Greece is known worldwide for the quality of its local produce, it is only expected that one can find the fresh and delicious products that the Greek land has been generously providing its locals with for thousands of years in its capital city.

That's where Athens' Central Market and the farmer’s market tradition in Greece , especially Athens, come out to play.

Athens' Central Market -or Varvakios as the locals call it- is located right in the city's heart, right by the neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psirri, serving as the beating heart of Athenian gastronomy since its establishment in 1884.

A medley of colors, aromas, and flavors, the impressive, wide-ranging market has everything you're searching for and probably much more.

From high-quality meat to fresh fish, locally-grown vegetables, and a limitless supply of spices, most of which you've never heard of before, the central market of Athens can do no wrong.

Similarly to Athens' Central Market but on a much smaller scale, the locals source the raw materials they need for their everyday cooking in their neighborhoods' farmer's markets -or ' laiki agora ' in Greek- a dearly beloved institution that takes place weekly in all Athenian neighborhoods and has been established since the ancient times.

You can find the days and Athenian neighborhoods the farmers' market takes place weekly here .

If you're lucky, you might even come across, among the many stalls, one selling meat skewers; don't even think twice, buy a couple, and thank us later; it will be a great meal no matter when and where you choose to eat it.  

Don't fail to explore the food markets of Athens during your stay in the city; make sure to have small euro notes and change with you and your eyes peeled for the most outstanding local products in town; your whole outlook on gastronomy is bound to change after getting up close and personal with the raw materials of Greece.

Athens' Nightlife 

Vibrant, lively, exuberant, buoyant; whichever word you want to use to describe it, one thing is for sure; Athens' nightlife is an integral part of the locals' life and probably nothing you've ever experienced before; what can we say? Greeks like to have a good time!

Thankfully, Greeks also like to have options, which translates to Athens' nightlife scene, making it a mixed bag of entertainment. As a result, there are four main categories in the nightlife destinations depending on your taste and age.

Of course, if you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, you can also check out our gay Greece travel guide!

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The beloved nightlife staple most cities have an abundance of, the bars of Athens are different from the ones around the world.

They are, in fact, one of Athens' top attractions. You can relax and mingle with the locals while tasting incredible alcoholic concoctions that put a modern Greek spin on classic cocktails.

The city center is swamped by bars, so finding one that fits your needs won't be hard; from jazz to rock and everything in between, the diverse side of Athens shows its face once again, providing both the locals and the travelers with endless options to choose from.

As bar enthusiasts ourselves, we have put together not one, not two, but three blog posts regarding the bars of Athens. 

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I don't know if you've heard this before, but Greeks like to dance -a lot. Admittedly, the club is one of the most popular destinations for people who want to unwind and one of the best places to dance in Athens , so it is no surprise that most central Athenian neighborhoods have at least one club that people frequent until the early morning hours.

Although there are a few exceptions, as a rule of thumb, the clubs of central Athens open their doors at around midnight with the tunes of R-n-B music blasting from the speakers and close at around 7 pm with Greek pop music helplessly trying to sober the clients up.

It is a vibrant, colorful, and intense scene that is not designed for the faint-hearted and is the total antithesis of what a home buddy would enjoy. If, however, socializing is your hobby and dancing feels like second nature, the club scene of Athens will electrify you!

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One of our favorite nightlife destinations and one we would highly suggest to any visitor looking for genuine local entertainment are 'rebetadika.' 'Rebetadika' are traditional local taverns that, along with delectable dishes of folk cuisine, offer live music of the famous Greek genre of 'rebetiko,' -hence the name.

The genre of rebetika can be described as the popular urban songs of the Greek public, especially those coming from an economically challenged background, from the late 19th century to the 1950s.

It's important to note that In 2017, rebetiko was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List . Therefore its cultural importance to modern Greek heritage has been officially verified.

Furthermore, being quintessentially Greek to their core, 'rebetadika' is the perfect opportunity to combine traditional Greek flavors with traditional Greek sounds in an affable environment, surrounded by locals who will delight in sharing their life stories with valuable tips for your stay with you.

Suppose you're looking for an authentic Greek evening out and are determined to keep your musical mind open. In that case, there is a wide variety of 'rebetadika' in downtown Athens, especially in the fashionable district of Psirri.

'Stoa Athanaton' has been the obvious choice for the locals since its establishment around 30 years ago and continues to be considered one of the best 'rebetadika' in town. 

From 1963 until now, 'Palia Markiza' has been a constant value in Athens's rebetiko and folk scene. The venue resembles a typical old-time Greek setting.

At the same time, the live band performs every Friday, Saturday night, and Sunday at noon, lifting people's spirits with favorite folk and rebetika songs and a menu full of traditional goodies.

Just remember that the tunes of rebetiko will probably sound foreign to you, to say the least. But don't be put off by that; bask in the sheer Greekness of the night, and you'll have a jolly good time!

Live music stages 

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Always up for a good party, Greeks love to spend their nights listening to live music at music stages around the city, where the most famous Greek singers and musicians show their artistry in front of an excited crowd.

You can find anything from the famous 'bouzoukia,' meaning music stages that feature Greek pop and modern folk music and typically have a raised stage where the guests dance along with the singers, to rock and alternative rock gigs frequented by die-hard fans.

Exploring the live music scene of Athens and enjoying one of the most paramount elements of local culture is key to understanding the Greek way of life.

If we've piqued your interest, which we hope we did because it is worth it, no ifs, ands, or buts about it- you can read about the best places to listen to live music in Athens and plan your nights in central Athens accordingly.

If nothing from the aforementioned floats your boat, have a read of the five things to do in Athens at night , and maybe you'll find something that suits you better; you do you! 

Athens' Culture

Athens' abundance of cultural stimuli is genuinely remarkable and can satisfy the tastes of even the most demanding of travelers from all around the world.

From prestigious art galleries to cultural centers, the world of sophistication that unfolds before the visitor's eyes leave a lasting impression that people can't shake off. And why would anyone want to shake off any Athenian experience? Believe us when we say that one cannot help but fall in love with Athens, no matter what. 

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Prestigious, fascinating, and original galleries are what Athens excels in. From contemporary paintings to unique jewelry and originally-crafted sculptures, art is plentiful in the capital city.

To make things a whole lot easier for you, you can read an all-embracing list of the best Art Galleries in Athens that will help you prioritize your stops during your Athens visit.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

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Suppose you want to take a long walk amidst luscious greenery while also getting the opportunity to get a hefty dose of Greek culture. In that case, the guide to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is perfect for you.

One of the locals' favorite destinations in Athens, the SNFCC hosts the National Library and the Greek National Opera, as well as an ever-green rooftop park and ground-level sweeping esplanade, where you can enjoy a long stroll, sip on your favorite beverage, read a book, watch a play and have a ball!

Open-air cinemas

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Last but not least, if you're a fan of cinema and Greek culture, combine the two with a visit to one of the open-air cinemas in Athens; a unique summer experience that will ruin any other cinema experience you've ever had, or you'll have in the future.

Watching your favorite movie under Athens' summer night sky with a Greek delicacy in hand is pretty hard to beat, don't you think?  

Athens Architecture

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Being as old as it is, Athens' architecture is intriguing, to say the least, and covers a broad spectrum of styles that have dominated the city over different periods.

From antiquity until today, Athens has been decorated with buildings that reflect the city's aesthetic through the ages; it is worth mentioning that today, there are more than 10,500 buildings registered dating from 1830 to World War II, still standing, representing various typologies and aesthetics schools.

It is what we would call the unofficial architectural heritage of Athens, and it is so diverse that there is no wonder why it captures the interest of most of its visitors.

From  the awe-inspiring Athenian Trilogy  to  the Benizelos Mansion , the  Neoclassical Architecture in Athens  is probably the most prominent style you will come across, and admittedly the prettiest one.

Neoclassical is the architectural and artistic movement that bloomed around the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and elsewhere to revive the classical forms of Greek antiquity and the subsequent Roman Empire.

In Greece, this type of architecture was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with the most famous examples still standing today, such as the numerous neoclassic mansions in Plaka, our Parliament building, which was previously the Royal Palace, the old Parliament House, which is now the National Historical Museum, and the Zappeion Mansion in Athens. 

Athens' Squares

En par with the charming neighborhoods of Athens, many Athens squares seem to stand out to the public, becoming popular meeting points and trendy hangout spots for Athens' residents.

Despite being up-to-the-minute, Athens' squares are drenched in history, making it necessary for us to linger on two of the most central and characteristic ones located around the city's heart.

Syntagma Square

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If you've ever been to central Athens, it is impossible to have missed the emblematic  Syntagma Square , located right at its heart, housing the grandiose building of the Greek Parliament.

While it is the second-largest square in Greece, following the Spianada Sq. on Corfu island, its compelling history makes it unique.

After the War of Independence and the establishment of the new Greek State, the newly appointed King of Greece, Otto, declared Athens as the new capital of Greece. King Otto's rule, however, was deemed unfair by the Greeks.

Eventually, the people of Athens questioned his authority, and on September 3rd of, 1843, they occupied the square, demanding the formation of an official constitution for the country.

The civilians succeeded, and Otto gave in. Hence the name of Athens square became Syntagma Square, which in English translates to 'Constitution Square.'

The monuments of Syntagma Square

At the center of the square lies a marble fountain in front of the monumental staircase leading to the  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier  monument, one of the square's top attractions.

This cenotaph is being guarded constantly by the elite force of the Greek army, the Evzones.

The most important buildings surrounding Syntagma Square in Athens are Grande Bretagne - the first international hotel of the city - and the former Ministry of Transport, famous for being where the liberation of Greece from the Nazi forces in 1944 was announced. 

Monastiraki Square

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Of course, no guide of Athens can leave out the colorful and historic  Monastiraki Square  that has been pulsing with life for hundreds of years.

Funnily enough, Monastiraki translates to 'little monastery,' with the name being a token left behind from the times when the square was part of a -you guessed it- monastery.

Located at the end of Ermou str., the most commercial street in Athens, and the beginning of Pandrosou, Adrianou, and Ifestou str., apart from the lively Monastiraki Square Flea Market, which offers the perfect opportunity for souvenir-shopping, Monastiraki Square is also known for its significant monuments and archaeological sites.

With Hadrian's Library, Pantanassa Church, and Tsisdarakis Mosque, which now hosts the Folk Art Museum, all located only a few meters from each other, it is apparent that one can witness the entire history of Athens, Greece, when standing at its center.

Don't skip the chance to taste Athens' best kebab souvlaki in  Thanasis  on Mitropoleos str., located near Hadrian's library, or sip on a cup of traditional Greek coffee on the charming Avissinias Square, the small square in the middle of the flea market; Monastiraki Square is a historical fairy tale waiting to be told! 

Shopping in the city center of Athens 

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No one is going to blame you, it's a materialistic world out there, and everyone knows it.

Therefore, apart from the natural beauty that is lavishly available in central Athens and the historical and cultural attractions, its rich retail market is bound to catch your attention, and for a good reason: shopping in Athens, Greece, is a unique experience, especially if you know where to look for the most original local boutiques.

Since we take shopping rather seriously, not as seriously as food, but it comes a close second, we have composed  the ultimate guide to shopping in Athens ! 

Alternatively, suppose you're a conscious buyer, and ethical shopping is your thing, or you simply enjoy scavenging for treasures. In that case, you can explore the  flea markets and thrift shops in Athens , where a whole world of previously loved pieces are waiting for their new owners.

Top Beaches Near Athens

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It's safe to say that its many golden beaches are high up in the ranking on Athens' pros list. Although the Greek islands are the ones that get the most praise for their idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, and visitors often forget that Athens, Greece is indeed a beautiful seaside city.

Only a few kilometers away from the city center, one can enjoy some quality beach time and indulge in the swimming and sunbathing they've dreamed of. 

Once you have your exotic cocktail in hand and a beautiful tan on your body, you'll never doubt the versatility of Athens ever again! 

Travel to Athens with kids

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Visiting Athens may either be the ultimate romantic getaway, or it could just as well be the perfect family trip to share with your loved ones.

With plenty of opportunities for your children to engage in local activities that will keep them entertained and happy throughout the trip,  visiting Athens with kids  shouldn't intimidate you, and this Athens travel guide will let you know why.

Athens' vast history alone offers the most extraordinary stimuli to your kids' imagination, occupying them for hours on end. Combine that with the rich and intricate tales of Greek Mythology you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself, and you'll have a winning combination no child will be able to resist.

Greek Mythology is one of the integral elements you'll also come across during your visit to the archaeological sites of Athens, such as the Acropolis, saving the day when your kids get bored and fussy.

Visiting the Acropolis with kids

Visiting the Acropolis with kids  in particular, despite the hike up the hill and the flood of information you'll have to overcome, can prove to be one of the most joyful family moments on your holidays in Athens.

You can also combine your visit to the emblematic archeological site of the Acropolis with a vibrant narration of Percy Jackson's accomplishments through a fun guided tour, as the Parthenon in Athens is one of the  7 places in Greece to live a Percy Jackson adventure !

Now you can retrace the steps of the beloved fictional character that kids from all around the world - all the way to the middle east- worship and keep your little ones occupied and happy!

In any case, when visiting the Acropolis of Athens, make sure to have a couple of things in mind: due to the scorching weather, especially during the summer months, don't forget to bring your hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen, while also dressing comfortably and lightly, as the average temperature in Athens is rather high.

What's more, albeit you should pack light, we highly suggest you carry water and snacks with you, as hungry and thirsty kids are not the greatest of sports.

Please bring a baby sling if you're traveling with a toddler or a baby, as the Acropolis of Athens isn't one of the most famous examples of stroller-friendly premises. 

Last but not least, don't forget your camera! You'll want to capture those family moments that you will treasure when your kids are too cool to join the family exploits even if they include riddles from Olympian Zeus himself!

The best Athens Neighborhoods

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Walking around the city and exploring its different neighborhoods is the most efficient way of getting to know the region, the most incredible way to marvel at Athens's top attractions, and get an insight into the locals' everyday life. A way of life a little different from the rest of the western world.

Of course, we can't omit to mention our favorite neighborhoods in the city from this all-inclusive guide, so here you go - you can click on each location's link to visit our detailed guide.

Hint : there is one neighborhood you won't be able to tell apart from the ones you see in the Greek islands. It is one of the most famous examples of Cycladic beauty, located in the middle of Athens!

Parks and Hills of Athens

Although the presence of concrete Athens is unmistakable, as expected from a capital city, right in the heart of Athens lie some nature retreats, where you can escape the hustle and bustle and recharge your batteries.

Whether you want to enjoy a luscious picnic, get introduced to Athens' flora and fauna, or just want to take a leisurely walk in search of some peace of mind, Athens will not disappoint you!

Find out about the  parks in Athens you should visit  and escape the concrete jungle where dreams are made in minutes! Of course, if you thought we'd leave that here and not tell you about the places where we like to go when we need a break from the hectic city life of Athens, you thought wrong, and we are very offended!

Here are our top picks regarding the luscious greenery of Athens:

The National Garden

national gardens Anastasios71 shutterstock

Visiting the lush National Garden in Athens, one of the most famous examples of an oasis in the heart of a cement city, with its tree-lined alleys, six ponds, and pets and birds, grants a great escape from the hectic city pace and the perfect opportunity for relaxation and recreation.

The Athens National Garden, known for many years as the 'Royal Garden,' open every day from sunrise to sunset, was and remains one of the favorite walks of the Athenians.

However, many visitors to Athens are unaware of the garden's value in botany and archeology. Regardless, the garden has been designated by the International Commission on Historic Gardens and Landscapes as a rare example of 19th-century landscape architecture and Europe's cultural monument.

The history of this garden in Athens goes back to ancient Greece when it was a private garden - a gift of Dimitrios Falireas to his teacher, philosopher, and herbalist, Theophrastus.

The National Garden, stretching across 154,000m², began to take its present form during the reign of Otto, being the work of Queen Amalia, known for her love for the land and her effort to create beautiful green spaces in Athens.

From 1839, plants began to be imported mainly from abroad to Athens because queen Amalia wanted the garden to have an "exotic" vibe.

The National Garden was initially only open to the public only a few days a year when the royal couple was not in Greece. After Otto's eviction, George I took care of the Garden and established a small zoo in Athens within its premises.

In 1927, its wooden fence was replaced by the iron railings and marble pillars that we see today. The 'Royal Garden' was renamed 'National Garden' in 1974.

The garden has seven entrances around Athens, with the main one on Amalias Avenue. Walking through the intricate alleyways, which are 7 km long and 3-5 meters wide, the visitor gets lost in the vegetation that consists of 500 species of plants -some so rare you won't come across anywhere else in the western world or even the middle east.

In addition to the famous ponds, the National Garden in Athens has pergolas with benches, a playground, a small collection of birds (ducks, geese, ducks, hens, hens goats), as well as many decorative elements such as statues of leading Greeks figures that famous Greek artists have crafted.

Within the National Garden, one can also come across Athens Children's Library, founded in 1984, Athens Botanical Museum, and a greenhouse.

So plan a leisurely walk across the luscious Athenian gardens, and you won't regret it; whether it is relaxation, reading, physical exercise, or even sunbathing you're after, the National Garden in Athens will become your favorite spot in the city!

Lycabettus Hill; A Breathtaking View From the Highest Point of Athens

lycabettus hil overview at dusk milangonda depositphotos

A treat to the romantics among us,  Lycabettus Hill  is one of the most dreamy places in Athens that no one -yes, even you cynics out there- should miss.

With a height of 277 meters (745 ft), Lycabettus is the tallest hill in Athens, offering a panoramic view of roughly the entire capital city, including its most prestigious archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis, which stretches for miles in a wide mesa surrounded by high mountains and the sea.

In antiquity, even though Lycabettus Hill was larger and higher, its lack of natural springs sealed its fate as inferior to the neighboring hill of the Acropolis, resulting in its remaining unoccupied.

However, Lycabettus' mystifying entice created a world of myths around its creation. According to the most popular one, the hill of Lycabettus was formed after the goddess Athena dropped a rock she was carrying.

During medieval times, a small church was built on the top of the hill on the grounds of an ancient shrine, which the visitors of the hill can still admire. Today, perched on the top of the hill, you can also find a luxurious bar/restaurant where you can enjoy local delicacies and a striking view of Athens that extends all the way to Piraeus port, which will leave you speechless.

Accessing the Lycabettus Hill

Accessing Lycabettus Hill is relatively easy: you can either drive up to a point and continue on foot, or you can opt for a cable car that is available at the end of Plutarch Street, which is probably the best favorite way, as the ascend is both fun and quick.

Lycabettus Hill will tick all of your boxes if you are a lover of nature and spine-tingling views. We promise that you will feel just like Olympian Zeus overlooking the Greek capital! 

Beyond Athens

Sounio and the temple of poseidon.

Sounio Aerial motion shutterstock

Within a 1,5 hour drive along the delightful coastline of Athens' Riviera lies another impressive archaeological site of Athens that, apart from its historical interest that goes back to ancient Greece, also possesses an unrivaled beauty resulting from the triumphant combination of the ancient columns against the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

The Doric Temple of Poseidon stands perched on top of a cliff overlooking the crystal-clear waters and giving Sounio's visitors a sight to behold.

Giving off an island life ambiance despite being 70 km from Athens' city center, everyone should take their sunglasses, camera, and high spirits and visit the southernmost point of Athens that is easily accessible while being utterly breathtaking.

Sounio's many inviting beaches are perfect for a quick swim, apart from enjoying the archaeological ruins.

Plan a  day trip to Sounio  to catch its magnificent and much-talked-about sunset in the afternoon. Moreover, enjoy an atmospheric dinner in one of its seaside taverns; a wonderful time is guaranteed whatever you choose to do. 

Islands Near Athens, Greece

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A little more than an hour away from Athens -or 40 minutes if you opt for the speed boat- you will find the  island of Aegina , one of the best examples of the Saronic islands, which compensates for its small size with its vast history that dates back to ancient Greece and good looks.

The city of Aegina is dominated by buildings that follow 19th-century architecture, giving the island a vintage vibe everyone loves.

Embrace the island's heritage by paying a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Kolonna or taking a trip to the historic Temple of Aphaea, a temple that holds a strong resemblance to the Acropolis of Athens.

Enjoy the island's stunning beaches by swimming in Agia Marina, the blue flag-awarded beach on the island. Take a scenic stroll throughout the length of the picturesque port and gobble down fresh fish and seafood in the welcoming seaside tavernas. We promise it will be a day you'll never forget!

Agistri Aerial motion shutterstock

Ten minutes away from the island of Aegina and around 1,5 hours away from the port of Piraeus, Agistri is another gem of the Saronic Gulf, wonderfully picturesque and significantly smaller than its neighboring islands.

Its lush landscape, dominated by dense pine forests and crystal clear waters, has placed the small island very near and dear to the Athenians' hearts, who visit the island at every opportunity.

During antiquity, the island was known as Cecryphaleia, with many of its ancient settlements now lying underwater, mainly in the western part of the island.

Among the top attractions of the island is the Folk Art Museum at Megalochori, a small museum that will transport you back in time and introduce you to the past everyday life of Agistri islanders.

Don't hesitate to plan a quick trip to Agistri to experience for yourself the laid-back life of a Greek island without having to spend too many hours on a boat!  

Spetses Konstantin Sokolov1973 shuttestock

Last but not least, the island of Spetses is undoubtedly the most picturesque of the Saronic islands and probably of most Greek islands, looking like it has come straight out of a fairytale. Spetses combines revolution and tradition sprinkled with superb cuisine and spirited nightlife.

It is classy and sassy, and makes you fall in love with it right from the get-go.

One of its additional perks? Cars are not allowed on the island, meaning that it is always quiet and peaceful, following a slowed-down pace most of us beg for. No one can deny that it offers one of the best deals for summer vacation! 

If you  explore the Greek islands near Athens  or even a bit longer, and you'll soon realize that their proximity to the city doesn't take away from their beauty; on the contrary, it adds to it the element of convenience and ease, precisely what people look for during their holidays!

Day Trips From Athens, Greece

Meteora clifs Killinson depositphotos

If you want to broaden your horizons without getting too far away from Athens and its striking Acropolis, there are several options for a day trip from Athens, filled with guided tours you should consider.

From Athens to Delphi

The site of Delphi was the most famous and notable oracle in ancient Greece. Praised worldwide, visitors from across the globe used to come seeking the prophecies of God Apollo. Traditionally, the only person allowed to enter the sacred chamber of Apollo's temple was his high priestess, Pythia.

Sitting on a golden tripod covered with the skin of Python, Pythia inhaled the fumes coming out from the chasm and chewed laurel leaves while giving out prophecies that were believed to come straight from the god's mouth.

Take the approximately 2-hour drive from Athens to marvel at the archaeological site of Delphi and immerse yourself in ancient Greek spiritualism. Since your trip to this transcendental destination will be entertaining and educational, check out the  things you’ll learn on a day trip to Delphi . The captivating stories you will hear and the striking landscapes you'll get to enjoy will make your day trip an utter success!

From Athens to Nafplio

At the shores of the Argolic Gulf, located in the striking peninsula of the  Peloponnese  and only a couple of hours away from Athens, Greece you can find one of the most whimsical and romantic cities of Athens, Nafplio. The city of Nafplio, much like every corner of Greece, has a far-reaching past that is evident in its architecture.

Fun fact:  Nafplio was the first capital of the modern Greek State, before Athens, and the place where the murder of Ioannis Kapodistrias, a Greek statesman who served as the Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire and was one of the most distinguished politicians and diplomats of Europe, took place Its charm, however, doesn't derive only from its heritage.

The city of Nafplio harmoniously combines its history with a flawless urban aesthetic, incredible beaches, and an intense cultural agenda that keeps its visitors on their toes. Here's a  guide to Nafplio  to make your day trip a smooth sail!

From Athens to Ancient Corinth

anc corinth ruins Tatiana Popova shutterstock

With an impressive history that dates back almost 8000 years, it stands to reason that the region of Corinth has played an integral part in ancient Greece and the development of not only modern Greece but the whole western world as well.

From hosting one of the most significant sports festivals during antiquity to becoming a founding city of Christianity, Corinth has changed the world as we know it.

Located 80 km. southwest of Athens, Corinth is the only county bordering the region of Attica and is, therefore, perfect for a short excursion or a day trip from Athens.

Due to the magnificent waters of its sea and its small, scenic villages, such as Vrachati, Kiato, Derveni, among others, it also offers an ideal setting for your summer vacations and a great alternative to the Greek island.

But, of course, when talking about Corinth, one cannot leave out the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, where the famous Temple of Apollo - not the largest temple, but certainly one of the most popular ones- the mythical Fountain of Glaucus, the street of Lechaio, the Asklepieion, the ruins of the theater, and the conservatory, as well as the remains of a series of fountains adorning the city, are waiting to be explored.

Just 3km from Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, the oldest castle in the Peloponnese, is built 575 meters above the ground, providing visitors with a mind-blowing view of the prefecture.

Don't wait any longer: plan your trip to Corinth and stop to snap Instagram-worthy pictures of the impressive Corinth Canal on your way to the city.  A comprehensive guide to Corinth  will ensure your life will be made a lot easier during your short time there; enjoy!

From Athens to Meteora

Often described as 'the place between heaven and earth,' Meteora is one of the most awe-inspiring regions of Greece and the western world despite being far away from the sea. Located in the region of Thessaly, Meteora is a place that calls for isolation, seclusion, and spiritual wondering.

The region is famous for its steep rock formations that hold no resemblance to any landscape around the world, on the tops of which some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world are still perched.

The geological miracle of Meteora is located in the northern part of the region of Trikala, nearby the modern city of Kalambaka. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a visit to the otherworldy land will help you realize why in a matter of minutes!

From Athens to Mycenae

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Mycenae , occupies the hillsides of the Peloponnese close to the modern town of Argos.

It is the city that named a whole civilization after itself, something which is indicative not only of its great importance to the then-known Greek world during the ancient times but also of its old age; it is known that the excavations that have taken place on the region of Mycenae have unveiled monuments so old that even ancient Greeks considered them ruins of antiquity.

Erected in a naturally guarded and reinforced location, you can't help but notice the Acropolis of Mycenae standing tall upon your arrival to the historic region.

Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of the area and get to know the birthplace of Agamemnon; it is no coincidence that Mycenae served as one of the most significant sources of inspiration for Homer!

From Athens to Epidaurus

Νοt to toot our own trumpet, but Greece is full of places that have earned a spot in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, and the Theater of Epidaurus is one of them.

Located in the beloved region of the Peloponnese within a couple of hours from Athens, the short drive to Epidaurus will reward you with a luscious natural landscape and an archaeological site that exceeds the expectations of even the most demanding of travelers.

The open theater of Epidaurus is said to be the best-preserved in all of Greece, maintaining its glamor up to this day and making the whole region a must-visit destination for Athens' visitors, who can even enjoy a modern play on its ground if they plan their visit to coincide with the annual Athens and Epidaurus Festival that takes place during the summertime.

The theater is famous for its unmatched acoustics, attributed to the architecture and the materials used for its construction in ancient Greece.

As a result, you can hear a pin drop at the exact same volume no matter where you sit, elevating your theater experience to another level. There is no doubt about it:  Epidaurus , and all lovers of theater and culture should hurry to it!

From Athens to Nemea

Known for its superb wine production that has its locals engaged with the -almost sacred- process of winemaking in Greece since the days of yore, Nemea lies on the border with the prefecture of Argolis and is surrounded by countless vineyards.

Apart from the many indigenous wine varieties you must try, there are archaeological monuments that are also worth your time. Some include the Temple of Jupiter, the baths, and the Nemea Stadium.

Most people, however, are familiar with Nemea -even if it's just its name, they're familiar with- from the famous tale of  Greek Mythology  regarding the labors of Hercules, and in particular, the killing of the Nemean lion, one of the most popular tales of ancient Greece.

If you're an admirer of history, wine, and all things nice, we highly suggest you visit this brilliant part of Greece conveniently close to Athens. Check out the  top things to do in Nemea  and make the most out of your day trip! 

Athens' Itineraries

If you want a complete and specific day-by-day guide on how to spend your days in Athens without being restricted to the famous Acropolis, we have everything under control as I have designed the ultimate guidebooks for your stay in the historic capital that include the best deals in guided tours you can during your trip to Athens.

More Reasons to Visit Athens

acropolis at nightime Lambros Kazan shutterstock

If you're that much of a doubting Thomas and need even more reasons to visit Athens than what is already stated in our Athens travel guide, we're happy to report that we still have multiple fail-safe get-out-of-jail-free cards for you.

Visit Athens for special occasions

Moreover, If you're a bride or a groom-to-be, you can get inspired by some of the best ideas for your bachelor and bachelorette getaway in Athens, Greece to help you live up to the last days of your life as a single!

Finally, suppose you want to visit Athens on a business trip and look for the best team-building activities in Athens, Greece such as a street art tour or cooking classes. In that case, you're in it to win with suggestions that will impress your colleagues;  Athens' street art and local cuisine are as impressive as our Acropolis and the culture that has inspired the Western world!

Final Thoughts

Acropolis photoshoot NataliaD Depositphotos

And voila, there you have it: the ultimate  Athens travel guide  that will make you feel cooler than the other side of the pillow and help you get around the city during your trip with ease, competence, and confidence, even if you're not some of the most experienced travelers.

Athens is truly one of the most incredible destinations around the world -and has been since the golden ages of  ancient Greece . With an average temperature of 28°C and archeological sites such as the Acropolis and Hadrian's Library, it is hard to beat.

Although the  Greek islands  get most of the hype, Athens, the capital city, with its ancient charm, urban aesthetic, and travel deals, is just as gorgeous and fascinating while also being diverse, vibrant, and fabulously welcoming; perfect for your summer trip!

No matter if you arrive at Athens International Airport, Piraeus Port, or Rafina Port, the city of Athens is exactly where you need to be.

Visit Athens, Greece, by booking one of our Greece vacation packages , and you'll get to find out the beauties of the largest city in the country for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is athens safe for tourists.

Athens has been described as an attractive destination even for female solo travelers. The crime rates are low, so you'll always feel safe at home. The majority of trips go smoothly. However, pickpocketing is something you should be mindful of,  especially in subway stations or busy tourist destinations.

Is it worth visiting Athens, Greece?

Athens is one of Greece's gems, and spending time there is a blessing. Despite being overlooked by many tourists in their haste to visit the Greek island, the wealth of culture and history the Greek capital offer is incomparable.

For that reason, we would highly suggest you design your itinerary to include at least a couple of days in Athens to get the full Greek experience.

How many days do you need in Athens, Greece?

Ideally, four days in Athens are usually enough to visit most of its attractions and get an authentic feel of it. It's possible for you to travel back to the beautiful capital of Greece after your tour of the Greek islands, but for those interested in a more immersive experience, a four-day stay would be the best option.

At the same time, if you're dead set on not spending time in a big city, you could fit the highlights in a couple of -busy- days. 

Is Athens good for a city break?

With all the sights to visit, Athens offers everything you could possibly desire. Ancient Greece's remnants are everywhere, from the Acropolis Museum to the Ancient Agora, and we can confidently say that Athens is the ultimate city break. 

Is it worth just going to Athens?

Athens is certainly a popular destination for tourists in Greece. The ancient city has plenty of treasures, and the modern attractions make visiting Athens worthwhile at any time. So yes, it is well worth just going to Athens. Its rich culture, vast history, local delicacies, and amazing coast will make sure you don't regret your choice. 

How do you get around in Athens, Greece?

The best way to get around during your visit to Athens is by foot and Metro; the most important sites of the city are easily accessible. You can also opt for rentals or, even better, book a transportation service that will take you comfortably and easily anywhere you want to go. 

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Essential travel guide to athens, greece [2024].

Many people visit Athens for the history and archaeology, of course. The Pantheon and other Roman ruins in the city are astounding. The views from the top of the Acropolis are unbelievable. And then there’s the food . Don’t forget about the incredible foodie experiences that will introduce you to the amazing food in Athens.

To show you the best side of Athens, we’ve put together this essential travel guide to Athens. It will help you start planning your trip by showing you the hotels we recommend, neighborhoods we love, things to do, and places to eat and drink in the Athens.

» Check out these 12 Best Greek Islands for Couples.

Athens Greece

These are not only some of the top things to do, see, eat and drink in Athens, they are also some of our personal favorites. It is an awesome city, plus it’s easy and safe to walk around.

»» Seeing more of Greece? Be sure to check out our Greece travel guide , the most incredible places to see in Greece , as well as what to do in Santorini . We also have a guide to traveling by ferry to the islands.

Are you planning your trip to Athens?

If you’re  traveling to Athens , ensure you have lodging and tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!

  • Book a transfer from the airport to Athens city center with Welcome Pickups.
  • Rent a car from the Athens airport through Discover Cars for the best deals.

Where to Stay in Athens:

  • The Pinnacle Athens  (5-star luxury hotel, amazing views from rooftop terrace)
  • MET34 Athens  (In Syntagma Square, breakfast included)
  • Athens Gate Hotel (Opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus, free breakfast)

Best Tours and Experiences in Athens:

  • Acropolis Museum + Acropolis tickets (Skip-the-line entrance to the museum)
  • The Athens Pass (Acropolis museum, Acropolis & Archaeological Sites: Combo Ticket, and city tour audio guide included)
  • Tickets for Athens Bike Tour: Ride and Bite (2.5 hour bike ride, including food)

Table of Contents

What To Do in Athens

Most visitors who are new to Athens are interested in checking out the Acropolis and the Parthenon first. It will take you a full day to walk around the hillside citadel and the other well-preserved 5th century landmarks, like Ancient Agora and Keramikos Cemetery. You can visit these archaeological sites with one multi-site ticket.

After seeing the ruins of the mighty Roman empire, you’ll want to visit the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum to fill in the picture of what life was like in ancient Athens.

Parthenon

For neighborhoods, the two you can’t miss are Plaka and Monastiraki. These two areas are bustling with people and filled with restaurants, coffee shops and bars. Make sure you save time for an afternoon Frappe (very popular cold coffee). In Monastiraki be sure to stop by the Varvakios Agora market to explore the indoor and outdoor market stalls.

We also recommend booking yourself an Athens food tour to become acquainted with all the delicious food and drinks of Athens. 

Loukoumades

With so many great things to do in Athens, you really need to set up a good itinerary before you leave, to make sure you fit everything in.  You can pre-book some of the activities listed in our shortcut travel guide to Athens (below), by using the links below for Viator and GetYourGuide. (Note: They are affiliate links for which we receive a small commission.)

  • Athens Full Day Private Tour
  • Athens Small-Group Food Tour
  • Acropolis Walking Tour Including Syntagma Square and Historical City Centre
  • Private Greek Cooking Class with Organic Products – With Locals
  • Athens All Included: Acropolis and Museum In a Cultural Guided Walking Tour
  • Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens
  • Athens Highlights: a Mythological Tour

There are so many things to do in Athens that you will surely never run out. Here’s a great plan for a long weekend in Athens .

Tours To Book:

Where to stay in athens.

NEW Hotel in Athens

Most visitors will want to stay near the ancient ruins so they can easily get to and walk around the historical sites. That’s very easy to do in Athens and it puts you right in the middle of the action of the city, so I highly recommend doing just that. Since there are many parts of the city that are accessible to the historic sites, you can branch out a bit and still walk to everything.

Here are our hotel recommendations. You can use the links below to read reviews or book your hotel (these are affiliate links, for which we receive a small commission):

  • New Hotel (near Syntagma Square): Lovely design hotel with in-room balconies, within walking distance of the main squares.  Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay  
  • AVA Hotel & Suites Athens: Just a very short walk from the Acropolis, shopping and restaurants. Rooms are spacious, clean, and beautifully appointed.   Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay
  • Electra Metropolis Athens:  Incredible views of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace, and some rooms. Nice rooms and great service.  Read Reviews  |   Book a Stay

Need more options? Check out these Hotels in Athens, Greece

View from our balcony at NEW Hotel in Athens

How to Get to Athens

Athens International Airport, Eleftherios Venizelos , is one of the most organized and modern airports in the world. It is well connected with public transport, so it’s easy to get there from anywhere in Athens. Many direct flights from  abroad arrive in Athens.

Once you’re at the airport, you can take Metro Line 3, which connects the airport to the city center. Trains run every 30 minutes, 7 days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The trip from/to the Airport to Syntagma Square station (which is likely where you’ll be staying) takes about 40 minutes.

Book a Transfer

The fastest way to get to the city is by taxi, but you might prefer to use Welcome Pickups instead. We like to pre-book a transfer service, so we know someone will be waiting for us at the airport and we’ll be able to go directly where we want without delay.

With Welcome Pickups, you can book a private transfer for the same price as getting a taxi from the line. Both cost 38€. The drivers are skilled, English-speaking and will monitor your flight for delays. It’s the clear winner. Book your transfer in advance here .

Essential Travel Guide to Athens

Essential Travel Guide to Athens

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Be prepared for travel.

Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

  • Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
  • Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
  • Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
  • Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Laura

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

14 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to Athens, Greece [2024] ”

Wow, what a detailed graphic! I look forward to checking some of this out, like Montastriaki since it’s a neighborhood for everyone 🙂

As a local in Athens, I totally approve your guide!Taf is one of my fave places for a drink or coffee too!

Love the infographic, thanks for the downloadable PDF! I’m interested to get to Athens and would love to explore Greece, though I don’t know what to expect from Athens itself. Have heard mixed reviews that it’s a very dirty city, but is a great base for exploring the surrounds. Only one way to find out I guess!

That’s a cool infographic, Laura. It’s an easy and quick reference at a glance. Nicely done.

Ohh, i really like the idea of presenting. It’s very informative and at the same time very engaging. Would try to do the same.

So jealous! I’ve always wanted to go to Greece. Such an amazing history. Hopefully I’ll get there and be able to use this guide soon!

What a fab guide and awesome graphic! You’ve covered so much and that it’s available in pdf for is great! Well done!

Great idea to compile an infographic with tips on visiting Athens! Bookmarking for our next visit to Greece.

not been to Athens since I was kid and I would love to go back and probably enjoy the history of the city a bit more now I am older

I think you’d likely enjoy it a lot more now. It’s definitely worth a return trip.

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Woow. Great post. Missed athens

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22 Top Tourist Attractions in Athens

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Athens is a sprawling city established among seven historic hills and surrounded by remarkable mountains. Inhabited for more than 3,000 years, Athens is widely known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Consisting of a large city center, an urban district and metropolitan area, Athens presents a confusing blend of historical and modern features.

The city is famous for its archaeological ruins and monuments. However, Athens is not just about ancient ruins. This bustling city is also an important center for culture, nightlife and sports. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Athens .

22. Theatre of Dionysus

Theatre of Dionysus

Travelers who are mad about theatre won’t want to miss the Theatre of Dionysus, the oldest theatre in Greece. Many of the most famous ancient Greek comedies and tragedies debuted on the stage here. The theatre, originally a temple built in the sixth century BC, is dedicated to Dionysus, the god of merriment and wine.

Cut into a cliff on the Acropolis, the theatre could seat 17,000 people. It has been continuously remodeled over the centuries. The best views of the Theatre of Dionysus, usually credited as the birthplace of European theatre, can be seen from higher up on the Acropolis.

21. Byzantine and Christian Museum

Byzantine and Christian Museum

The glories of Greek Orthodox Christianity await visitors to the Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens. The museum is chock full of more than 25,000 artifacts relating to Grecian artifacts from approximately the third to the 20th centuries.

The exhibits include artifacts from regions where Hellenism took root, and covers the Byzantium, post-Byzantium, medieval and early Christian periods. Some of its holdings are rare, including collections of pottery, manuscripts, fabrics and frescoes. It has one of the largest collections of Byzantine art in the world. The museum has a collection of marble and limestone slabs and icons.

20. Roman Agora

Roman Agora

Centuries ago, shoppers may have rubbed shoulders with the likes of Julius Caesar and Augustus since they helped fund the Roman Agora. In contrary to the Ancient Agora which it replaced, it had a purely commercial character. The Roman Agora was built during the waning years of the first century BC when Greece was part of the Roman Empire.

The new agora featured a large open space surrounded by colonnades and columns; shops were inside these borders. The 12-meter (40-foot) Tower of Wind, just east of the Roman market, features reliefs of the eight winds with a sundial underneath each.

19. Museum of Cycladic Art

Museum of Cycladic Art

What started out in the 1960s as two people acquiring artifacts associated with Greece’s Cyclades Islands resulted in a world-class collection of Cycladic art. The Museum of Cycladic Art opened in 1986 featuring more than 3,000 artifacts and figures created between 3300 and 1100 BC on the Aegean Sea archipelago.

Some of the marble figurines are lifelike in size. The statues feature nude people in an abstract or simple style and are said to have influenced 20th century artists such as Modigliani and Brancusi. Some artifacts are in groups such a heroes and gods to better give a picture of ancient Greek civilization.

18. Philopappos Hill

Philopappos Hill

The Acropolis may be the most famous hill in Athens, but Philopappos Hill isn’t far behind. It also has an ancient history. Ancient Greeks believed the nine muses lived there and eventually named the hill after a monument to Philopappos, a Roman senator who is considered a benefactor of Athens.

At 147 meters (482 feet) high, it offers great views of the Acropolis and the rest of Athens. To the south, the Aegean Sea can be seen on a clear day. Philopappos is buried in a marble tomb in 115 AD at the highest point on the hill.

17. Temple of Athena Nike

Temple of Athena Nike

There’s something indescribably graceful about the Temple of Athena Nike that has been standing in a prominent spot on the Acropolis since 420 BC. Athena was the goddess of war and wisdom. Nike is the Greek word for victory.

It was at this temple the ancient Greeks prayed for victory in a war against Sparta. The temple was destroyed in the 17th century during a war between the Venetians and the Turks, but was rebuilt. It’s famous for a “wet drapery” (a type of sculpture in which “fabric” drapes over a nude body) of Nike adjusting her sandal.

16. Anafiotika

Anafiotika

Ruins aren’t the only things worth visiting in Athens. In-between the ancient and the sparkling new lies Anafiotika, an old neighborhood that is worth a wander. This picturesque slice of Athens can be found below the Acropolis and just north of the historic neighborhood of Plaka.

Anafiotika was built by workers from the Cyclade island of Anafi in the 1860s on the order of King Otto I. Many of the houses were destroyed in the 1950s for archeological digs, but 45 of the original houses remain. The houses feature Cycladic style architecture, reminiscent of that found on the Greek Islands. The modest houses are still inhabited and many are decorated with colorful bougainvillea.

15. Benaki Museum

Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum, housed in the Benaki family’s former mansion, is home to an outstanding collection of art representing various stages of Greek culture. Its holdings include 120,000 works of art starting in prehistoric times and ending today. With 181,000 books, it is Greece’s largest Muslim library, though they are housed in one of the museum’s four satellite facilities.

The museum also has an extensive collection of Asian art. The museum started in 1934 when the Benakis donated 37,000 Islamic and Byzantine objects. Other donations over the years have made the Benaki Museum one of Greece’s top museums.

14. National Garden

National Garden

In the heart of Athens, the National Garden provides a green oasis for sunny afternoon trips. The Royal Garden has a private garden for the Royal Palace, which is now the Parliament Building. The Public Garden was established in 1923. This is a quiet and peaceful place away from the bustling city with a gorgeous green

Statues decorate the gardens as well as flowerbeds and small ruins of antiquity. The gardens of Zappeion can also be found here, which surround the ancient congress hall that was built in the 19th century.

13. Panathenaic Stadium

Panathenaic Stadium

Though built by the ancients, Panathenaic Stadium holds a special place in sports history. This original stadium, which dates to around 300 BC and was rebuilt in 144, has hosted several Olympics. More importantly, the stadium is where the Olympic flame starts on its journey to the nation hosting that year’s athletic contests.

In ancient times, the stadium hosted a religious festival dedicated to the goddess Athena every four years. The current structure was restored in the 19th century for the first modern version of the Olympics Games after centuries of disuse. Panathenaic Stadium seats 50,000 spectators and is the largest stadium in the world made entirely of marble. The stadium is a major attraction in Athens.

12. Monastiraki

Monastiraki

Travelers who like to shop ‘til they drop may enjoy a visit to Monastiraki, a huge market and neighborhood in the historic district in Athens. On weekdays, there is a normal marketplace with shops selling souvenirs.

On the weekends, it transforms into a huge flea market, with vendors carting in tables and carpets from which they sell junk, antiques and everything in-between.

One of Athens’ top shopping areas, Monastiraki is a good place to buy clothing, icons and souvenirs, and people watch from a sidewalk café. Haggling over prices is expected here, but be wary about paying antique prices for a fake made in another country.

11. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was – and is – a top music venue in Athens. Built in 161 by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife, the amphitheatre could seat more than 6,000 in steeply sloped tiers at the base of the Acropolis. Alas, it was destroyed by invaders a hundred years later, only to be resurrected in the 1950s.

It hosts the annual Athens Festival, an annual celebration featuring performances by international entertainers. The odeon also is a good place to take in classical Greek performances. Although a roof covered the theater in ancient times, everything takes place under the stars today.

10. New Acropolis Museum

New Acropolis Museum

A main stop on any Athens tour is the New Acropolis Museum, which resides near the base of the hill overlooking the city. It has the largest collection of Greek architecture and ancient sculptures including statues of the goddess Athena and “Kritios Boy.”

The museum was originally scheduled to be built in time for the 2004 Olympics, but its completion was delayed due to legal battles. The museum has five floors that showcase 4,000 artifacts. Permanent exhibitions here include the Parthenon Frieze, Athena statue, Color the Peplos Kore, Parthenon Gallery and Athena Nike.

9. Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus

For romantic evenings, gorgeous sunsets and an amazing panoramic view of Athens, Mount Lycabettus is an incredible adventure. As the highest point in Athens, it allows visitors to see all across the Attica basin and the Aegean Sea. Climbers can also see as the chapel of St. George from its peak.

A little cafe here will serve up a fantastic dinner for two. To start the hike, visitors go up the path that begins at the end of Aristippou Street in Kolonaki. The path continues to wind upwards around the mountain. Visitors can also take the funicular, which departs from Ploutarchou and Aristippou Street.

8. National Archaeological Museum

National Archaeological Museum

For visitors who love art exhibitions, there is no better place to visit in Greece than the National Archaeological Museum. Multiple collections can be found here from contemporary artists all the way back to antiquity.

The museum also has a large collection of artwork dating back to the Neolithic Age. The collections include small vases, working tools, clay vases and other small artifacts that are some of the oldest archaeological finds dating back to the 7th millennium. Over thirty rooms, sculptures from every century can be viewed including ancient Kouroi Egyptian sculptures.

7. Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square

A major point of interest for any traveler to Athens is the Syntagma Square. The most famous aspect of Syntagma is the changing of the guards by the Evzones in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Hellenic Parliament Building is located here as well as various buses, trolleys and tram stops.

A fountain, ancient statues and two large grassy areas offer the picture perfect place for photos and picnics. Most major events that occur in Greece have been celebrated at the Syntagma Square.

It’s also the site of various political functions, and it was also at this square that the Military Junta government was overthrown in 1974. Besides the Hellenic Parliament building, other interests include the historic hotels Grande Bretagne and George II.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is known as the largest temple in Greece. The massive ancient complex took nearly seven centuries to complete. Building originally began in 515 BC by order of Peisistratos, but work stopped on the temple as it was seen as oppressive as Peisistratos and his son were seen as tyrants by the Athenians.

Work resumed in 175 BC but was halted 10 years later when the Roman architect Cossutius died. Under emperor Hardian in 132 BC, the temple was finally completed and dedicated to Zeus Olympios. The temple stands today mostly as a reminder of Greek history, but only 15 of 104 huge columns remain. The columns each rise 17 meters (57 feet) into the air and once surrounded a cella where two large statues were once placed.

5. Erechtheum

Erechtheum

The Erechtheus or Erechtheion is a temple made from Pentelic marble. It’s located on the Acropolis, and it’s one of the legendary pieces of Greek architecture. Its construction dates back to c. 421 and 405 when the earlier temple to Athena was destroyed by the Persian invasion.

The Erechtheum was once a sanctuary dedicated to Athena Polias, Erechtheus and Poseidon. Visitors can access the shrine to Athena by going through the eastern portico. The northern portico leads to the western cella.

The Porch of the Caryatids can be found through the southern portico. The six draped female figures can be found here that support the entablature, which is the Erechtheum’s most defining feature.

4. Ancient Agora

Ancient Agora

Located to the northwest of the Acropolis, the ancient Agora of Athens was once a marketplace and civic center. The people gathered here to browse all kinds of commodities.

It was also a place to meet others and talk about politics, business, current events and the nature of the universe and divine. The ancient Greek democracy can actually be traced to this ancient spot. It’s a wonderful area to look at the cultural beginnings of Athens.

Overlooking the Ancient Agora from its elevated position on the hill of Agoraios Kolonos, the Temple of Hephaistos was built in the 5th century BC. Similar in style but smaller than the Parthenon, the temple consists of 34 Doric columns that support a still partially intact roof. It is the best preserved temple in all of Greece thanks to its conversion into a church in the 7th century.

Plaka

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens is the Plaka District, which resides under the Acropolis and spreads out to Syntagma. This village is almost like an island within the city, and it’s the perfect way to experience authentic Greek culture.

The area is quite private and boasts truly unique scenery with several cafes, ancient trees, green leaf canopies and stone walkways. The area is well-known for its food, boutique shops and cafes. Along Kydathineon Street, visitors find the Jewish Museum, Folk-Art Museum and Saita Taverna, which serves delicious bakalairo and other grilled meats.

2. Parthenon

Parthenon

The Parthenon is the most famous building in Athens and all of Greece. It stands majestically at the top of the Acropolis and is considered the epitome of Doric architecture, the simplest of Greek architectural styles.

The temple was built to honor the goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron of Athens, to thank her for protecting the city during the Persian Wars. Situated on the site of a former temple to Athena, the Parthenon was considered completed in 438 BC, when Athens was at its peak. The symbol of ancient Greece, the Parthenon is decorated with sculptures that are considered outstanding examples of Greek art.

1. Acropolis

Acropolis

No visit to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis , the most famous hill in the Greek capital. It’s impossible not to visit this landmark since so many important Greek ruins are located here, including an old citadel for which

Though only 156 meters (511 feet) high, the Acropolis is considered the highest point in the spirit of ancient Greek culture. From the Parthenon at the summit, travelers can look down on monuments built on its sides as well as over a more modem Athens. The buildings on this hill are considered a great blending of architecture with natural surroundings.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Athens

Map of Tourist Attractions in Athens

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September 6, 2019 at 10:05 pm

I have been to Athens and Greece overall twice: 2010 & 2012. I studied Ancient Greece and Athens so I am partial to all of the things ancient. Of course, the acropolis with all the wonderful buildings on it and around it, along with the agora, is so fulfilling. But to get a true feeling of the ancient past, a visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. The Bronze Age portion is among my favorite parts that reflects much of what is described in Homer’s Iliad. However, when all is said, I truly love it all! Be sure to visit the many other great locations in Greece while your here: Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, Thermopylae, etc!

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October 5, 2016 at 9:53 am

We will be taking a Mediterranean cruise in July, 2017. Will end up in Athens. Want to spend a few days here, maybe two to three. Will that be enough and what would you recommend we do with this time to experience a little taste of Athens and Greece?

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May 7, 2015 at 3:31 pm

Great tips, thanks! We also highly recommend The Monastiraki Square Flea Market…

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October 2, 2014 at 4:32 pm

I highly recommend Greece. Go for the best way to get a new version of how life could be….Visit Glyfada, south of Athens. ., and Astir beach, also Voulagmeni because I have lived there. Further down you will find Lavrio and Then Sounio.

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May 30, 2014 at 7:11 am

I want to go to these places someday

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Private Tours in Athens and Greece

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We have been to Athens, the Acropolis, and the Acropolis Museum several times before, but this time we took a tour with Onoufrios. It was fantastic. He does a wonderful job conveying the historical, Archaeological, and linguistic importance of everything we saw. We loved It and couldn’t recommend him more. Will definitely be back to hire him for other tours.

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Four of us booked Onoufrios for a 3 day tour of Athens and surrounding areas. He is extremely knowledgeable and truly a fun person to spend time with. Be sure to book the Corinth Canal day which included super driver, George. He treated us like royalty! Look no further. This is the guide that you want. Check out Onoufrios' website.

Seen the best of Athens!

We hired Onoufrios for a private 1/2 day tour of the Acropolis and surrounding areas. He met us on time, and did an amazing job of keeping us away from the crowds while we toured. He was knowledgeable but more importantly, he was personable and so enthusiastic. Not only did he give us an excellent tour, he also suggested restaurants and other places to visit. Highly recommend!!

Ancient Greece Comes Alive

Onoufrious' expert commentary made our day in Athens as much about the people of ancient Greece as the architecture. He had a special way of conveying visual details to help us understand and retain the historical timelines. We also did his Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplio Private Tour, which augmented and reinforced what we learned in Athens. Since we had heard numerous times "This is a replica--the original is in Athens", we squeezed the National Archaeological Museum Private Tour in on our last day. He found many interesting artifacts in a rather stody museum. Highly recommended.

I'm Onoufrios,

an OFFICIAL TOURIST GUIDE licensed by the Ministry of Tourism to give tours, both inside and outside sites and museums . The official guides are required to wear a blue badge . It doesn’t get more private and personal than this, as I am not an agency and I don't arrange packages. ‍

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I have a profound love for Greece and I enjoy giving awareness tours to people who really want to learn, who are interested in art , history , local culture , politics and want to have a nice time .   If you are not interested, if you are looking for a shopping/eating tour or if people call you high-maintenance, I am definitely ( not probably) not the right guide for you.

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Once upon a time, Αθήνα used to be the centre of... everything! It was the birthplace of Democracy ; home to philosophers , such as Socrates , Plato and Aristotle ; it gave birth to theatre itself. There's a reason why it was called the ' School of Greece '.

This is indeed where Europe and 'Western Civilization' began!

The city offers:

  • numerous museums (two of the world's most important ones: the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum, ranked in the World Top 10)
  • several hills for hiking
  • plenty of ancient sites , in the centre & nearby
  • cafés and restaurants in the old town ( Plaka ) or other modern areas in the centre or by the sea
  • very vibrant nightlife
  • a lot of beaches as well as a lake and
  • easy access to many islands !

So allow yourselves   a  f e w  d a y s   in this great city that started it all...

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How to get around Athens: from Athena to Zeus

Zora O'Neill

Feb 25, 2023 • 6 min read

Locals relax in the sun on Filopappou Hill

Relax in the sun while you figure out your next destination in Athens © yiannisscheidt / Shutterstock

Though modern Athens extends from the sea to the mountains, the city’s core, where most of the ancient sites cluster around the Acropolis , is compact and very walkable. Visitors without mobility issues on short visits may find they can get around the sights entirely on foot.

But if you want to explore Athens' outlying neighborhoods – or just rest for a bit – you’ll find transport in Athens is affordable and easy to navigate, particularly if you load a couple of key digital tools onto your smartphone. Whether you're headed for the airport or the Ancient Agora , here's a guide to the best ways to get around Athens.

A colorful train waiting at the platform in Piraeus Metro station. Athens

Use the metro to get to key sights like the Acropolis Museum

The Athens metro is clean, frequent and cheap, with service from 5.30am to just past midnight daily. The system consists of three lines (red, blue and green) with major transfer points at Omonia, Syntagma and Monastiraki. Key stops include Acropoli (for the Acropolis east entrance and Acropolis Museum ) and Thissio (for Kerameikos ).

Line 3 (blue) connects Syntagma and the airport, but a special €18 return fare applies. Aside from the airport and Piraeus, most tourist destinations are in the center where the lines cross, so walking is almost always more efficient.

A local’s tip for riding the metro: It’s good etiquette (and makes life easier) if you start making your way toward the doors early, ideally right after the train has left the preceding stop.

A yellow bus in traffic in Athens

Buses are tourist-friendly – but you'll need a smartphone to check routes

Most of Athens is covered by a vast network of buses, running from 5am to midnight, with some very limited night services. The vehicles are tourist-friendly: screens show upcoming stops, and announcements are made in Greek and English.

There are no published maps of the bus routes at stops, but they are available on the O.A.S.A. website , which also has a route planner. Routes appear in Google Maps, too, so either install the app or plan your route before you head out. A few express buses serve outlying destinations, such as the airport and Piraeus, and these cost more. The Airport Express buses run 24 hours a day and leave from the Intercity Bus Terminal, Syntagma Square and the port.

Use the tram to get to the coast 

Slow but scenic, Athens' single tram line runs south from Syntagma to the seaside, where the route splits and goes east and west along the coast. The ride from the center to the nearest beach, passing the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center , is about 30 minutes.

Athenian streets with ordinary traffic around Hadrian's gate.

Taxis are cheap by day, expensive after midnight

Athens doesn't have a ride-sharing service, but conventional taxis are inexpensive and handy at night, when other public transport stops, though the night rate (effective after midnight and on holidays) is about 60 percent higher than the day rate. The challenge for visitors is that many drivers speak very little English, and some, inevitably, are unscrupulous in their dealings with out-of-towners. Be aware that there are legitimate additional charges, such as for tolls, extra-large luggage and entry to the airport.

A local’s tip for taxi-hailing: Wave your arm aggressively and shout the name of the neighborhood you’re headed to. At busy times, drivers will often take multiple passengers all headed in the same direction. If you share, take note of the meter reading when you get in, then subtract that amount when you pay.

Use a ride-hailing app to book a licensed taxi

The Beat app summons a licensed Athens taxi, gives an estimated price, and lets your driver know where you’re headed without a word. You have the option of paying with cash or a credit card.

View of Athens from Mt Lycabettus

Cycling is still a bit hairy, and traffic-free bike paths are rare 

Athens city planners are trying to expand the bike network, but sightseeing on two wheels is still difficult. Challenges include hills, reckless drivers, oblivious pedestrians and teeth-rattling cobbled streets. One longer cycle path does run to the seaside, however, so getting out of town is a breeze. Join a tour with Roll in Athens or rent an e-bike from Solebike .

You're unlikely to need the suburban railway

Realistically, most tourists won’t use TrainOSE ’s proastiakos (regional rail) services, although there is a handy route from the airport to Piraeus. If you do end up taking a regional train, TrainOSE and Ath.ena tickets are interchangeable for journeys within Athens.

Driving around Athens is a bit of a headache 

When you're up against traffic jams, narrow and pedestrianized streets and extremely limited parking, a car in Athens is more of a hindrance than an asset. Rental cars are a reasonable option for trips out of Athens, but for getting around downtown, ditch the rental at the airport if you can.

Athens skyline view

Accessible transportation in Athens

Unlike many poorly designed streets and entrances to sights in Athens, the city's transport system does actually meet EU accessibility standards. All metro stops have elevators, usually very well placed for direct access to ticket machines, offering easy transit down to platforms. This is also handy if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage.

Above ground, buses can 'kneel' to street level for wheelchair users and the mobility impaired, but overall, the metro is much easier to navigate than the bus system. For a taxi with full wheelchair support, contact Special Taxi , which has a fleet of nine mini-vans with wheelchair lifts. For more resources, see the Lonely Planet guide to accessible travel , a free download.

An Ath.ena ticket makes public transport cheap

Athens has a unified ticket system, so you can use the same ticket or pass on the metro, bus, tram and suburban rail system within the metro area (except metro trips to the airport). The Ath.ena ticket – ena means 'one' (unified, see?) – is a paper ticket sold at vending machines in metro stations, and you can load it with single rides or passes. Single rides cost €1.20, are valid for 90 minutes, and are discounted if you buy more than one. Timed passes cost €4.10 for 24 hours or €8.20 for five days. 

When buying multiple tickets, be careful with your calculations, as the ticket can be refilled only when it’s completely empty. Note that the paper tickets issued for airport buses are not refillable. If you’re worried you might lose or damage a paper ticket (or just want a souvenir), buy the sturdier plastic Ath.ena Card from a booth in any metro station. These come preloaded with either five rides (€5.70/$6.70) or 11 rides (€12/$14.10), and they’re refillable whenever you like.

If you’re staying more than a month, consider a personalized Ath.ena Card; you’ll need to show your passport. Whatever kind of Ath.ena ticked you have, just tap in on the readers at metro turnstiles or by the doors on buses (and do this on every bus, even if you transfer within the 90-minute window). You’ll need to tap out of the metro, but not buses.

Consider a Tourist Ticket to save on the metro rides from/to the airport 

If you’re flying into Athens for a short visit, you might find the three-day tourist ticket useful. It’s a special Ath.ena Ticket that costs €20 ($23.45) and includes a round-trip metro fare for the airport (which would normally cost €18). But be careful with the return trip, as you must tap out at the airport within the 72-hour window.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated February 2023

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  1. This is Athens

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    Join a 3.5-hour guided tour of Athens in which you'll discover the city's main attractions and visit the impressive Acropolis with an expert guide. Acropolis & Museum Ticket + Audioguide. Visit two of Athens's most renowned sights by reserving your ticket and audioguide for the Acropolis and its accompanying museum.

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    Your first of 2 days in Athens focuses on the main sites located around the Acropolis, ancient Greek and Roman sites that are over 2000 years old. You will also visit the Acropolis Museum, do a little shopping, and enjoy the view from one or two rooftop restaurants and bars. At the end of the day, you have the option to visit the Acropolis.

  13. Visit Athens (Greece)

    Visit Athens Greece - Athens City Guide N°1 Athens travel guide - Tips for sightseeing, tourism and Athens city. All sighstseeing, tourist attractions information and tips for your city break in Athens Greece such as visiting the sights and highlights. What to visit in Athens city in Greece? Your trip starts with travel guide AthensLover.com

  14. Athens Travel Guide

    Athens is always inspiring, but it's very hot in high summer, a time when locals who can decamp to the islands every weekend and for most of August. The best times for city visits are thus April to mid-June and again between early September and November, when days are more bearable, nights are still balmy, and the tourist rush isn't ...

  15. The Ultimate Athens Travel Guide

    Athens, the illustrious capital of Greece with a tapestry of more than 5,000 years of history, unfurls its magic piece by piece. With this ultimate Athens travel guide, you will have the chance to be a part of an exhilarating journey. You can commence with a visit to the iconic Acropolis and the esteemed Acropolis Museum to behold the revered ...

  16. 2024 Athens Travel Guide: Explore Greece's Capital Like a Local

    Athens is a fabulous year-round destination and following this Athens travel guide will reveal why. Central Athens is the best place to stay when visiting the Greek capital. The Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Zeus are some of the most significant archaeological sites of the city. A walk around the historical center ...

  17. Essential Travel Guide to Athens, Greece [2024]

    It is well connected with public transport, so it's easy to get there from anywhere in Athens. Many direct flights from abroad arrive in Athens. Once you're at the airport, you can take Metro Line 3, which connects the airport to the city center. Trains run every 30 minutes, 7 days a week from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

  18. Athens 3 Day Itinerary: Complete Guide for First-Timers

    Things to do in Athens: 3 Day Itinerary. Day 0: Welcome to Athens. Day 1: Historical City Centre of Athens. Day 2: Uncovering Athenian Treasures. Day 3: Day Trip & Breathtaking Viewpoints. Alternative day trips from Athens & activities. Surprising things to know about Athens.

  19. 22 Top Tourist Attractions in Athens (+Map)

    One of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens is the Plaka District, which resides under the Acropolis and spreads out to Syntagma. ... Best Time to Visit Athens: Month-by-Month Guide. 4 Days in Greece: Classical Greece Tour from Athens. 8 Best Day Trips from Athens. 26 Top Tourist Attractions in Greece. 7 Most Beautiful Ionian Islands.

  20. Athens Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Athens; 1) Acropolis and Athens Half Day Private Shore Excursion. 2) Thermopylae, Meteora and Delphi Full Day Trip from Athens. 3) A 'Cool' Acropolis Experience - Half Day Tour in Athens. 4) Cape Sounio Tour with Sunset from Athens.

  21. Private Tours in Athens and Greece

    Yá sas!‍ I'm Onoufrios, an OFFICIAL TOURIST GUIDE licensed by the Ministry of Tourism to give tours, both inside and outside sites and museums.The official guides are required to wear a blue badge. It doesn't get more private and personal than this, as I am not an agency and I don't arrange packages. ‍. I have a profound love for Greece and I enjoy giving awareness tours to people who ...

  22. How to get around Athens

    Use the tram to get to the coast. Slow but scenic, Athens' single tram line runs south from Syntagma to the seaside, where the route splits and goes east and west along the coast. The ride from the center to the nearest beach, passing the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center, is about 30 minutes. Taxis are an excellent option to get around Athens ...

  23. Athens Tourist Guides

    Our tourist-guide team is awaiting you! Choose one of our suggested tours or let us take you on a tour tailored especially for you and here we go! Experience the magic sense of Athens. Enjoy the most of your holidays in Athens! ... Athens Tourist Guides will make your visit in Greece a great experience.