Athens, the beautiful capital city of Greece, boasts a fascinating history, rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. From its sparkling coastline to traditional cobblestone villages and impressive archaeological sites, Athens lures visitors from across the world with its many iconic attractions.
Visitors can step into the ancient past with a guided tour of the original Olympic stadium or admire the intricate marble carvings of the hilltop Acropolis. Savour the exquisite flavours of authentic Greek cuisine in a traditional taverna, or hike up Lycabettus Hill at sunset to catch the evening’s golden rays setting over the city. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or a trip packed with adventure, there’s something for every visitor to explore and enjoy in Athens.
With such a range of attractions on offer, it can be difficult to know where to begin! To help you plan your dream itinerary, we’ve carefully curated a list of the 11 best things to do in Athens. From top historical monuments to iconic beaches and dining hotspots, we’ve covered it all.
If you’re ready to discover this magnificent city, dive into this guide for a Greek holiday to remember.
Athens is a time capsule of ancient Greek and Roman heritage, dotted with some of the most famous and well-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Explore breathtaking structures built thousands of years ago for an afternoon of discovery, culture and adventure. Here are some of the top ancient sites you must visit during your trip to Athens.
Built in the 5th century BCE, the Acropolis is an iconic hilltop landmark in the heart of the city. The ruins display a grand marble entrance, various temples, and an amphitheatre that is still used for performances today. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site to learn about its impact on ancient democracy, philosophy, and religious worship.
Notice the intricate carvings of the Parthenon Temple dedicated to the patron goddess Athena, admire the towering columns in the central gateway or if you’re searching for unique things to do in Athens, attend an evening of opera in the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
The Panathenaic Stadium was originally built in 330 BCE to host athletic events in the city and was famously refurbished for the first modern Olympics in 1896. Walk around the horseshoe-shaped arena with over 50,000 limestone seats looking down on the central race track, or venture into the stadium’s museum to see pictures of the venue throughout history. The cultural significance of this site on modern sports events makes it a must-see in Athens.
The Ancient Agora was the social, political and commercial hub of Athens during antiquity where citizens gathered to engage in commerce, discuss politics and attend religious services. The Agora is one of the best places to visit in Athens for a true flavour of ancient culture, displaying the ruins of various public buildings. Notice the craftsmanship of the hilltop Temple of Hephaestus, explore the courthouses where criminal trials were held, or roam the grand walkways of the Stoa, once a hub of social activity that is now a museum displaying artefacts.
The Library of Hadrian is an impressive monument on the northern side of the Acropolis, which was constructed in 132 AD. The ruins indicate a courtyard, pool and gardens surrounded by marble columns, once operating as a functional library. Stand in the footsteps of the ancient Emperor and his intellectuals as they roamed the library almost 2000 years ago.
Plaka is one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Athens located at the foot of the Acropolis. This charming Old Town epitomises traditional Greek beauty, complete with white-washed buildings, bougainvillaea trees and winding cobblestone streets.
Wander into artisan souvenir shops selling handcrafted jewellery, garments and glass sculptures to support local businesses, or relax in one of the many traditional cafes for a coffee and pastry as you soak in the peaceful ambience. Yiasemi is a stunning rooftop cafe nestled in the heart of Plaka offering panoramic views of the Old Town, perfect for a bite to eat during an afternoon stroll.
Plaka is one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, and visitors can discover the region’s history by visiting the stunning Byzantine churches. Agios Nikolaos Rangavas Church is a beautiful religious building standing proudly in Plaka centre, complete with Arabic designs, golden bricks and an unmissable domed roof.
Enjoy the tuneful live music that spills from Plaka’s street corners. There are many traditional bars in this part of the city, and live music performers serenade guests with authentic music as they sample delicious local wines. If you’re searching for fun things to do in Athens, be sure to explore Plaka by night to experience the joy of bouzouki music, Greek wine and a welcoming upbeat atmosphere.
There are many beautiful beaches along the Athenian Riviera, a gorgeous stretch of coastline from Piraeus to Sounion in the south of the city, with crystal-clear water and golden sands. If you’re searching for fun yet free things to do in Athens, spending a day relaxing by the Mediterranean Sea is a must! Here are two of the best beaches you should visit during your trip to Athens.
Very popular during the summer, Glyfada Beach is a lovely stretch of coastline where visitors can relax and dip in shallow blue waters for an afternoon of fun in the sun. Great for travellers on a budget, this beach is perfect for avoiding the high price tags of private beach clubs and offers a relaxed ambience for families during the day, and a vibrant bar scene for party-goers by night. This beach tends to get busy in the peak months, so be sure to get there early to secure your sunbathing spot!
This sandy sanctuary offers a more upscale vibe for visitors seeking an indulgent beach experience. Perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, Astir Beach offers luxury cabanas for sunbathing away from the busy tourist crowds. Rent a seafront chaise and sample delicious cuisine from nearby resorts for a touch of glamour on your getaway in Athens.
Greece experiences some of the most incredible sunsets in the Mediterranean, and Athens is no exception. In the spring and summer months, the capital’s sunsets attract visitors from across the globe with their fiery glow and incredible panoramic locations. There are many hilltop viewpoints dotted across the city where you can capture this breathtaking spectacle, and these two sunset spots are a must-see in Athens.
Lycabettus Hill is situated in the heart of Athens and stands at around 277 metres, the highest point in the city. From the summit, visitors can see unobstructed views of the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus, and at night, the vantage point transforms into a romantic hotspot under the golden evening rays. Accessible from downtown Athens, this spot is popular with locals and tourists alike and can be reached by a steep path through woodland, or take the cable car for a more relaxed journey.
Located around 18 kilometres northeast of Athens, Mount Penteli stands at around 1,000 metres and offers incredible panoramic views of Athens and the Aegean Sea. Unlike Lycabettus Hill, Mount Penteli is a less crowded and more peaceful setting for golden hour. Hike through the hillside trails starting at Penteli village, making your way to Davelis cave to learn about local myths and settle down on a cosy blanket for a quiet sunset picnic. If you’re searching for unique things to do in Athens, add Mount Penteli to your itinerary.
Athens is a food-lovers paradise, offering everything from traditional Greek tavernas to fine dining restaurants. Whether you’re seeking a romantic candlelit dinner with views of the Acropolis or a quick bite to eat in a lively street market, there are plenty of options for delicious culinary experiences in this bustling capital. If you’re wondering where to go in Athens for authentic Greek cuisine, here are two regions you should explore.
Monastiráki is a lively region in Athens Old Town famous for its vibrant street food stalls and charming rooftop restaurants. Surrounded by ruins like Hadrian’s Library and the Ancient Agora, this historic region is perfect for an authentic Greek dining experience. The central square is lined with numerous tavernas where visitors can enjoy classic recipes, including souvlaki or gyros. Enjoy the bohemian vibe of trendy bars offering a laid-back atmosphere and unbeatable city views.
Kolonaki is a stylish, upscale neighbourhood in central Athens, attracting visitors with its fine dining restaurants and cafes. For an indulgent culinary experience, venture to Funky Gourmet, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative blend of traditional Greek flavours with modern twists. After a day of exploration, unwind in an al fresco cocktail bar for an aperitif paired with a sweet treat like baklava or kataifi.
Athens is a melting pot of culture, history, and culinary excellence. Home to some of the most iconic archaeological wonders in the world, incredible natural scenery, and a diverse range of fun excursions, there’s something for every traveller to explore and enjoy.
From watching the sunset atop Lycabettus Hill to sunbathing along the Athenian Riviera and sampling delicious treats in the Monastiráki markets, you won’t be short of exciting activities to enjoy in this vibrant Greek capital.
We hope this guide has inspired you to visit the wonderful city of Athens. Be sure to check our other articles on Backpacker Boy for top tips, recommendations, and trips to other stunning Greek destinations.
Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting Athens! There’s so much to enjoy here, including some of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in the world, glorious sandy beaches, charming white-washed villages, and of course, traditional Greek cuisine. If you want a holiday that blends nature, culture, and history, Athens is the place for you.
It depends on your travel preferences, however, if you want to experience Athens without the scorching summer heat, fewer crowds, and lower prices, then springtime is the best time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant at around 18°C to 27°C, historical sites are more easily accessible without the density of tourists of the peak travel season, and flowers are in full bloom. Summer is certainly ideal sunbathing conditions, but temperatures can reach 40°C making it uncomfortable for sightseeing and prices soar in the school holidays, so take this into account before booking your trip.
If you’re travelling in the spring and summer months, you should focus on bringing light breathable materials and covers for your shoulders to protect you from the heat. If you’re venturing to Athens in the autumn or winter, layers are important for the lower temperatures. Remember to pack swimwear, suncream, and a hat, as well as important travel gadgets like chargers and adapters to stay connected during your travels.
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