The Best Things To Do and See in Athens
Athens! The modern city has so much ancient history I learned about in school. It took me back to old times as I walked around this ancient city.
I didn’t know what to expect of Athens, but it turned out to be a city I loved. Despite most websites recommending two days and then moving on to the islands, we chose to stay four days and absolutely enjoyed it.
Ignorant me had this idea people would be like those in My Big Fat Greek Wedding movie, loud, funny, and a bit wild. However, I found Greek people in Athens to be quite fashionable with their leather jackets and dressy boots and quite good-looking.
The Best Things To Do and See in Athens
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I fell in love with the city because it’s full of rich history, tasty food, shopping, many points of interest, kind Greeks, and great nightlife. The city has an urban, modern, and edgy feel to it and is full of character. What made Athens so incredible was finding everything near the city center, making it very easy to get around.
I think the capital of Greece will make you feel welcome, so make sure not to skip it when you visit the Greek Islands. Here is a list of things to do and see in Athens, Greece, while you enjoy the lovely Mediterranean air.
1. Self-Guided Tour of the Acropolis and other Ancient Historical Sites
First and foremost, no visit to Athens is complete without visiting the major historical sites such as the Acropolis, the Roman Agora, and the Olympus.
Each site is unique and offers a view into Greek history. Therefore, our recommendation is to purchase the multi-site combo ticket that includes seven sites, and you can tour them at your own pace in two days.
The cost is 30 euros, and you can purchase at one of the sites included in the pass. You can visit the Acropolis alone for 20 euros if you prefer. Here are some of the sites we visited.
The Acropolis
The Acropolis is a site elevated on a rocky hill in the middle of the city. It consists of three historic sites; the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. You will also find the north and south slopes.
These ruins were built between 510 and 400 B.C. and have an impressive view of the city from above. If you only have a day in Athens, this is the historical site we most recommend. Unfortunately, the site gets crowded, so aim to go early in the day or at sunset.
Ancient Agora of Athens
The Ancient Agora was initially a place of gathering for an assembly.
Temple of Olympian Zeus-Olympieion
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a monument with columns near the center of Athens. It was dedicated to Olympian Zeus, head of the Olympian gods.
With 104 colossal columns upon completion during the Roman period, it was once the largest temple in Greece and housed the largest cult statues in the ancient world. Sixteen of those columns stand today.
Roman Agora of Athens
The Odeon of Agrippa built the Roman Agora. It once stood several stories high. It was built in 19-11 B.C.
Archeological Museum of Kerameikos, Kerameikos
It was once the potters quarter of the city and the site of an important cemetery.
Hadrian's Library
Library was created by the Roman emperor in 132 AD. It has an inner courtyard and columns. The library was once on the eastern side, where they kept rolls of papyrus books. Halls were used as reading rooms and lecture halls.
Acropolis Museum
Residing in central Athens near all the historical sites, the Acropolis Museum houses exhibits and artifacts from the Parthenon and other past historical sites.
People enjoy the museum for its glass floors that show you a peek of the ruins underneath when you look down. The cost is only 5 euros and gives access to the exhibits, lounge, shops, eateries, and restrooms.
2. Stroll Through Plaka
Plaka is a neighborhood with narrow cobblestone streets filled with cute street-side cafes, restaurants, and tiny shops with clothes, ceramics, souvenirs, jewelry, and art.
It sits centrally and is just steps away from the Acropolis and other important historical sites. It’s a charming spot that tourists enjoy therefore it can get quite busy.
You can also enjoy it at night at one of the various clubs and bars. We loved strolling the streets and looking at the cute cafes.
3. Aeropagus Hill
Two minutes northwest of the Acropolis is Mars Hill or Aeropagus Hill. This place is biblically known as a place where the Apostle Paul delivered his famous speech about the identity of the “Unknown God.” It’s also a site used for murder tribunals and functioned as the chief homicide court of Athens.
Last but not least, in Greek Mythology, Ares was tried here for murder, and Orestes killed his stepmother and lover here. But, put the history aside, and you have a great view of the Acropolis from above this small hill. We saw many locals hanging out with their friends here. I think it’s perfect for a quick picnic.
4. Filopappos Hill
Located just west of the Acropolis is a park that leads to Filopappos Hill. It was one of our favorite spots because the views of the city are incredible.
The Aegean Sea could be seen from one side, turn your head, and the Acropolis stands out. Simply beautiful, and we had the place all to ourselves until two others strolled by.
We’re not sure why it’s not a tourist hotspot because the hike and stroll through the park were short, and the views were lovely. Do go here!
5. Syntagma Square
Located in the city center, this is where you’ll find the changing of the guard’s ceremony and where the public bus to and from the airport stops.
Syntagma Square is steps away from boutique stores, shops, and souvenir stores. Instead, it’s an excellent spot for a snack break on one of the benches that line the square.
6. Eat Delicious Greek Food
I’m pretty sure we gained a few pounds around Greece, but the food is amazingly delicious! We had an idea that Mediterranean food is the most healthy in the world, but for some reason, we found ourselves eating a lot more carbs from bread and pasta and delicious cheese than we should have!
Foods to try are Moussaka, cheap gyros, feta cheese with olive oil, pita bread, and hummus, tzatziki (yogurt dip), and a Greek salad if you want to be healthy. Yum! I wish we were back in Greece now!
7. Watch an Open Air Movie
Sadly we didn’t get to do this one, but Athens has many open-air cinemas that many locals enjoy as a popular activity. So don’t be like us, make time to see a movie. One of them is found beneath the Acropolis at Cine Thisio and has a snack bar and drinks.
8. Stroll the City
I recommend this in every place we visit. So we put down the GPS or map and start walking. These walks always lead us to the best discoveries.
Best Time to Visit Athens
Athens is good to visit primarily year-round. The summers will be hot and the best time to visit the islands, but expect crowds. In the winter, you will have historical sites to yourself, and the nightlife is in full swing. Our visit was during shoulder season, but it fell on Easter. Despite this, we didn’t experience the sites too crowded.
Where to Stay
Athens is easily walked if you stay in the correct area. Since most things you’ll want to see are near the city center, we recommend staying no further than a 20-minute walk from there.
We saved money by staying at an Airbnb near everything and did not require transportation. You can book using my Airbnb code that saves you money when you sign up. Or you can use Booking.com to find yourself a stay nearby.
Getting Around
Renting a car is unnecessary if you plan to sight-see the city, and most things are accessible by foot, taxi, or metro. Plus, parking and street signs may be difficult downtown. So we recommend doing it all on foot.
The airport is quite far from the city, but you’ll find three main options. One is taking a taxi with a high flat fee of 38 euros daytime and 50 euros at night to the city. The Metro is another option costing 10 euros per person and takes about 45 minutes to downtown.
The Bus Station is located just outside the airport doors and has direct service to Syntagma Square (city center) for 5 euros per person. It takes 45 minutes to an hour. This is the option we took and used it to return also. Depending on the size of your group, a taxi could be your best option.
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Travel Booking Resources
Book Your Flight:
To find cheap flights, check Skyscanner and Google Flights. These search engines check airlines to find you the best deals. The more flexibility you have, the better flight deals available.
Book Your Accommodation:
Booking.com is my favorite booking site for hotels but it also shows great deals on hostels and apartments. Plus, when you reach Genius Level, you get special discounts, included breakfasts, and upgrades on some hotel rooms. Hostelworld is specifically for budget travelers who enjoy hostels. This is the best place for finding great options.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance and Visa Applications:
Travel insurance will protect you against theft, injury, illness, and cancellations. Sometimes unexpected things happen during a trip and protections will keep you covered. Two great options are: Safety Wing and World Nomads. Also, iVisa can help you get a visa if you need one.
Book Tours:
Sometimes the best way to see a place is through tours. I recommend checking out Get Your Guide for some fun and unique adventures wherever you go.
Check out my other travel resources to help you book your trip!
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The Best Things to Do and See in Athens
We loved Athens because it’s a modern city filled with incredible city life and surrounded by ancient ruins, Greek History, and mythology thousands of years old. It’s interesting to see and can be enjoyed in a couple of days or more.