2024-10-05
Here are the best things to do and see in Athens, the capital of Greece and the Cradle of Western Civilization.
So, in this guide, I share the best suggestions for exploring Athens, a city I know well and love. With my experience, I can recommend the best this incredible city has to offer.
Indeed, Athens is a destination full of history, culture, and beauty, from historic monuments to lesser-known spots.
So, join me on this journey through the main attractions, like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, as well as the hidden gems that make Athens unique.
Let’s start with the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, where all political and religious matters were discussed. Then, I suggest a visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, entirely built of marble, where the first modern Olympic Games were held.
Another highlight is the Monastiraki neighborhood, ideal for hunting antiques in its famous street market. Here, you can find true treasures from times past. Don’t forget to head up to the 360 bar or A for Athens to enjoy an incredible view of the Acropolis.
Syntagma Square is another must-see on your itinerary. Watching the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a unique experience. Take the time to explore the National Gardens and relax a bit.
Additionally, I’ll also share tips on gastronomy, so you can savor local cuisine and take home special memories.
So, get ready to discover Athens like never before, with tips and suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.
What to do and visit in Athens, the capital of Greece
Exploring the incredible Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is the city’s most famous monument, but it can also be one of the most disappointing.
This is because the number of people who visit the Acropolis daily is immense, making this site quite chaotic.
Nevertheless, there is no doubt that the Acropolis of Athens is an iconic landmark of ancient Greece, and therefore, it should be part of your itinerary in Athens.
Take some time to explore the monuments of the Acropolis, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
To complement this visit, I suggest that at the end of the Acropolis tour, you visit the Acropolis Museum, which houses various valuable artifacts removed from the Acropolis.
Visiting the Ancient Agora, the heart of Ancient Athens
Visiting the Ancient Agora is an essential experience for those interested in the history and culture of Athens.
After all, this place was the heart of Ancient Athens, where the city’s political, commercial, and social life unfolded. It’s incredible to think that all matters of daily life, from politics to religion, were discussed here.
Moreover, at the Ancient Agora, don’t forget to explore the impressive Temple of Hephaestus, as it is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples.
Another point of interest is the Stoa of Attalos, a detailed reconstruction of a historic building that now serves as the Museum of the Ancient Agora. Spend a couple of hours exploring the collection of artifacts that tell the story of this important political and commercial center.
The proximity of the Agora to other tourist attractions, such as the Acropolis and the Plaka neighborhood, makes it easy to include this visit in a broader itinerary.
So, when considering what to do in Athens, remember to include the Ancient Agora on your itinerary.
Hunting for antiques at the street market in the Monastiraki neighborhood
Here’s an activity you don’t see every day: hunting for antiques at the street market in the Monastiraki neighborhood!
So, if you’re into antiques, the Monastiraki neighborhood is a must-visit in central Athens. That’s because in this market, you’ll find a variety of items like figurines, ancient coins, and eclectic clothing.
But even if you’re not planning to shop, strolling through the Monastiraki market is an adventure in itself!
The streets are filled with stalls where you can find unique treasures, from vintage jewelry to art pieces. In other words, this is the perfect place to find souvenirs to take home.
In addition to shopping, Monastiraki has much more to offer, such as cafes with outdoor seating and tavernas serving traditional Greek delights.
Furthermore, if you wish to have a breathtaking view of the Acropolis, visit the 360 bar or A for Athens. Both offer incredible panoramic views and are perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of exploring the city.
The combination of antiques, vibrant culture, and stunning views of the Acropolis will make this experience one of the most memorable of your trip, so be sure to put Monastiraki on your list of things to do and visit in Athens.
Strolling through Syntagma Square and watching the Changing of the Guard
Strolling through Syntagma Square and witnessing the Changing of the Guard is an experience often included in every Athens travel guide.
For this reason, Syntagma Square is one of the most visited places in the city, attracting crowds who come to witness a special event: the Changing of the Guard, which takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
This ceremonial event is performed by the Evzones, the presidential guard, known for their traditional uniform and precise movements. The Changing of the Guard occurs every hour, but the most elaborate ceremony takes place on Sundays at 11 am.
In addition to the Changing of the Guard, Syntagma Square is a central point in Athens, perfect for starting to explore the city. Around the square, you’ll find the impressive Hellenic Parliament and can stroll through the National Gardens, a green oasis in the heart of the city.
If you’re wondering what to do in Athens, Syntagma Square should be at the top of your list.
But remember, to make the most of your visit, arrive a bit early to secure a good spot to watch the ceremony. Then, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, such as Ermou Street with its many shops and cafes, and discover the rich history and culture of Athens.
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens
Here’s the challenge: visit the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, a historic icon that many overlook. This stadium holds significant importance as the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
The Panathenaic Stadium, entirely constructed of marble, is a grand sports structure that captivates all visitors.
Located in the heart of the city, from the stadium, you can see Mount Lycabettus, while taking a trip back in time, reliving the history of the Olympic Games and the significance of this venue in global sports culture.
In addition to exploring the stadium, take the opportunity to visit the small museum on-site, showcasing Olympic memorabilia and recounting the history of the competitions over the years.
Feel like you’re on a Greek island in the midst of the capital at Anafiotika
The neighborhood of Anafiotika, located in the center of Athens, provides a unique experience in the capital of Greece.
Even though you’re in a metropolis, you can feel like you’re on a typical Greek island.
In this picturesque neighborhood, the white houses and narrow streets recreate the sensation of an island retreat in the heart of the Greek capital.
Furthermore, the harmony between the white houses, vibrant blue, and lush plants creates an idyllic atmosphere that’s well worth experiencing.
Enjoy the cuisine in Athens
Greek cuisine must be one of the healthiest in the world! Greeks prioritize local products like vegetables and cheese, and the cooking is simple and delicious.
Some must-try dishes are spanakopita, souvlaki, gyros, and of course, Greek yogurt.
So, souvlaki are skewers that are sold almost everywhere, while Gyros are a kind of sandwich that can include chicken, pork, or lamb meat.
Moreover, the gyro meat is cooked on a vertical oven like kebabs, which is inspired by Turkish cuisine.
The preparation is simple and quick, meaning, at the restaurant counter, they take a pita bread and add lettuce, tomato, fries, yogurt, and pieces of meat.
That is, in two or three minutes, you have a tasty meal ready, with fresh ingredients and at a very competitive price. Don’t miss out on this experience!
Greek yogurt is also widely available in many places, but the traditional version comes with honey and walnuts and truly has a distinct flavor I was not expecting.
The best neighborhoods for dinner are Plaka, the historic district in the center of Athens with many restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Accommodation in Athens
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Athens, I usually do the same as in almost every European capital: a centrally located hotel, with good access to public transportation to the airport, and as comfortable as possible within my budget.
Unfortunately for me, I don’t always have a high budget available, so I’m satisfied with affordable accommodations.
The good news is that I don’t find hotels in Athens to be very expensive. It’s true that the earlier you book your hotel, the better, but even so, I consider the prices to be acceptable.
So, in the center of Athens, I recommend the Brown Kubic, a member of Brown Hotels (4 stars), a modern and super comfortable hotel.
Additionally, on the day of departure, as I had a very early flight and couldn’t have breakfast at the hotel, they provided a takeaway meal. It was something I greatly appreciated, especially because the hotel had no obligation to do so.
Other equally excellent alternatives are the Emporikon Athens Hotel (4 stars) and the Royal Olympic Hotel (5 stars).
If you prefer a more affordable apartment, I believe the Marilyn Residence is a good choice.
Tourist traps to avoid in Athens
Athens is an incredible city, without a doubt, but like any tourist destination, there are some “tourist traps” to avoid. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them to ensure an authentic and more affordable experience.
One of the most common traps is restaurants in the most touristy areas, like Plaka and Monastiraki.
Often, meal prices are inflated and the food quality is mediocre. To avoid this trap, look for restaurants where you see many locals eating. Use review apps to find genuine recommendations.
Taking photos with someone dressed in period costume in exchange for money happens all over the city. If you’re not interested in these photos, simply say no, as these people usually aren’t very pushy.
Another “tourist trap” is the sale of generic and overpriced souvenirs in the shops around the Acropolis. It’s easy to fall into the temptation of buying souvenirs at the first shops you see.
Instead, explore side streets and local markets where you’ll find authentic handmade products at fairer prices.
Taxis without meters are another trap. Some drivers try to charge exorbitant fares to unsuspecting tourists. Therefore, always ensure the meter is on or, better yet, use transportation apps like Uber or Beat, which are popular in Athens.
Excessively expensive guided tours are another trap. Many tourists end up paying too much for guided visits to attractions that can be explored independently.
To avoid this, research online and find more economical alternatives or local guides with good reviews.
Everything you need to know before traveling to Athens, Greece
The capital of Greece is an incredible city, with monuments and places of interest at every corner, making it a destination that is always worth returning to.
The truth is that no matter how many times you travel to Athens, there is always something new to see, or a tourist attraction to revisit.
Then there is the amazing atmosphere of cafés and terraces, which only those who give the city time to reveal itself can truly appreciate… I really love Athens.
How many days are needed to visit Athens?
While most travelers stay for 2-3 days in Athens, I honestly think it’s not enough. Let me explain what I mean.
If your idea is to see the main tourist spots in Athens just to arrive, see, take photos, and move on to the next tourist attraction, then 2-3 days are sufficient.
However, I think it’s a shame to always be rushing and not giving the city time to reveal itself. What I mean is, the most enjoyable moments I’ve had in Athens were conversations with café workers, sitting in terraces, and wandering through the street markets.
Don’t get me wrong, the Acropolis is something you absolutely must see in person, as well as the other monuments of Athens. But what’s missing are the people, and to get to know the people of Athens, you need to spend more time frequenting the same places.
All of this is to say that in my opinion, you should stay for 6-8 days in Athens. And believe me, you won’t regret it.
How to get to Athens from the UK and the USA?
Getting to Athens from the UK and the USA is quite convenient, with multiple flight options available.
From the UK, you can fly directly from major airports like London Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted, as well as regional airports such as Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh. Airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offer regular flights to Athens.
From the USA, most travelers will need to connect through a major European hub like London, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam before flying to Athens.
Popular airlines for this route include Delta, United, and American Airlines.
Is Athens safe? And is Greece a safe country?
Greece is considered a safe country for travelers, including those traveling alone. In recent years, I have traveled alone to Greece, and neither in Athens nor anywhere else have I felt unsafe.
However, especially in Athens, being a very touristy place, it’s important to take some safety precautions.
For example, when visiting monuments, don’t leave your valuables on display to avoid unnecessary attention.
What I consider very important when visiting Greece is to have travel insurance, and I use and recommend IATI Travel Insurance.
The fact is, they are so affordable and comprehensive that I think it doesn’t make sense to travel without travel insurance!
👉Check how much travel insurance for Greece costs!
Is it worth renting a car in Greece?
To visit just Athens, the capital of Greece, I don’t believe it’s necessary to rent a car. The journey from the airport to the city center can be done by bus or taxi, as it’s not very expensive.
However, for exploring the surrounding areas, having a rented car is essential since bus transportation is limited, not always bookable online, and generally not very convenient.
Therefore, I recommend renting a car in Greece, and I use and recommend Discovercars for car rentals in Europe.
👉Check how much it costs to Rent a car in Greece. Booking online and in advance increases the likelihood of finding cheaper prices.
Is travel insurance needed to travel to Athens, Greece?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to have travel insurance when traveling to Athens, Greece.
Although it’s not a mandatory requirement to enter the country, having travel insurance provides peace of mind and security while exploring the country.
My personal choice and recommendation are IATI Travel Insurance, a reliable insurance company with good coverage and very affordable prices.
Additionally, there are no deductibles, and no upfront payment is required to activate the insurance. Moreover, they offer english assistance, which is a valuable asset in case of emergencies in Greece. Unless you speak Greek…
Other benefits include coverage for lost luggage, assistance in case of document loss, and liability coverage, which can be crucial in unforeseen situations.
So, when planning your trip to Athens, strongly consider purchasing travel insurance with IATI Insurance.
👉 Check how much it costs to get travel insurance for Greece.
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