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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

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The 18 Best Hotels in Athens, Greece

By Rachel Howard

It was only a handful of years ago that hotels in  Athens  were limited to grubby hostels and soulless chains. During  Greece 's economic crisis, developers swooped in as property prices plummeted, snapping up townhouses, office blocks, and empty lofts. And while  Airbnb  has transformed whole neighborhoods, it hasn’t stalled the capital's booming hotel scene. A new hotel seems to open in the center of Athens every week—from funky guesthouses and chic boutique hotels to restored neoclassical monuments and coastal resorts. Now full of lodgings so lovely that you’ll definitely want to stay for longer than just a layover, here are the 16 best hotels in Athens.

How we choose the best hotels in Athens

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

One&Only Aesthesis

The latest milestone in the revival of the Athenian Riviera, Greece’s first One&Only resort offers an unstuffy approach to ultra-luxury. In its 1960s heyday, Asteria beach was a playground for socialites and starlets; many black-and-white Greek movies were shot in the Modernist bungalows and open-air restaurant. The new buildings follow the exact blueprint of the original layout, with 137 bungalows, villas , and residences scattered between lush gardens and the shoreline. Interiors are a tour de force of discreet decadence, but it’s the seamless service and cut-above amenities that really elevate the experience. The luscious Guerlain spa is reason enough to book a stay; the nourishing honey and orchid facials are phenomenal. It would take weeks to work through the sensational breakfast spread at Ora restaurant (don’t miss the almond and feta cake). By night, Ora’s lemon-yellow booths become a lively setting for chef Ettore Botrini’s accessible but accomplished Greco-Italian menu. At El Bar, three-Michelin starred Paco Morales has created an extravagant take on tapas, featuring smoky salmorejo with cheese foam and indecently unctuous chicken croquettes with Ras el Hanout mayo. The space is dark and moody, uplifted by an Andalucian soundtrack and exuberant staff. Every guest has two dedicated hosts, on-call round-the-clock (via What’s App) for super-prompt room service, restaurant reservations, padel and tennis sessions, or SUP lessons with the Greek national champion. The slim beach is not the best swimming on the Athens Riviera—but once you’re inside this cloistered enclave, you couldn’t care less. If you get antsy, the Acropolis is a 30-minute drive. Private museum tours and boat trips can be arranged. — Rachel Howard

Address: One&Only Aesthesis, Poseidonos Avenue, Athens 166 74

Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection

A theme runs through this downtown 5-star hotel: busts of ancient Greek philosophers adorn the Plato lobby bar, and your key card comes with a quote by Hippocrates or Socrates. Guests are encouraged to switch off their devices daily for an hour and borrow a book from the library instead. But there are plenty of modern conveniences too: Simmons mattresses in the monochrome bedrooms, Diptyque amenities in the marble bathrooms, and a heated pool where black-and-white movies are projected in the wellness center. There’s a buzzy vibe up on the rooftop, where all of Athens stretches before you while you knock back spicy margaritas, seabass ceviche with lotus root chips, and duck and sweet potato croquettes at Japanese fusion restaurant Nyx.

Address: Academias Hotel Athens, Autograph Collection, Akadimias 38, Kolonaki

The name is no gimmick: this neoclassical mansion is actually a listed monument. Designed in 1881 by German architect Ernst Zilller, who shaped “modern” Greece’s 19th-century capital, its restoration was overseen by specialists from the Ministry of Culture, who painted the delicate acanthus flowers on the ceilings and trompe l’oeil wooden staircase. It still feels like a private residence with just nine rooms and a deliberately intimate atmosphere. There’s soft limewash on the walls, brass lamps beside the dark wooden beds, and antique rugs in the enormous bathrooms. Staff are unfailingly lovely and always ready to make restaurant reservations, prepare the steam room, or book you a massage (ask for Thomas, who has magic hands). Our Epos room had a stunning veranda overlooking the Acropolis, Agios Demetrios church, and the sidewalk chatter of Linou Soubasis, one of the city’s hippest restaurants. You’re in the thick of the Athenian Renaissance here, yet a world apart. As our breakfast waiter Konstantinos said, while we lingered over Greek yogurt with fruit compote, eggs scrambled with tomato, and perfect cappuccinos: “This is a safe space.”

Address: Monument, Kalamida 11, Psirri

The Dolli Arrow

Originally a shipping magnate’s mansion and later a famous fabric emporium, this 1925 Plaka landmark has been reimagined as a hotel-Maison by Grecotel, Greece’s largest hotel chain. With its rounded corners and lofty windows, the ornate façade has been beautifully preserved; inside, the look is more flamboyant eclecticism—giant crystals, blobby bouclé sofas, art by Cocteau, Picasso, and Calder. From bijou doubles to vast connecting suites, guestrooms have soaring ceilings, gleaming marble bathrooms, and an air of extravagance. But the real scene-stealer is the roof terrace: the infinity pool creates the illusion that you’re floating in the Parthenon, which is just overhead. You can pick out all the city’s landmarks from the smart rooftop restaurant, where legions of assiduous staff serve a flawless, multi-course breakfast. Whether you’re into ruins or bars, flea markets or museums, everything is on your doorstep at The Dolli.

Address: The Dolli, Mitropoleos 49, Athina 105

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

Hotel Mona Athens Arrow

Sister hotel to Shila, Mona shares the same romantic aesthetic but with a sharper industrial edge to suit the downtown location. A converted textile factory on a graffiti-lined side street, Mona is surrounded by the myriad bars and boutiques of Psirri and the bazaar-like Athens central market. Open-plan bedrooms (and bathrooms—beware if you’re intimacy-averse) are like film sets, with antique daybeds, muslin drapes, and oversized velvet cubes tossed like dice on distressed terrazzo floors. Exposed concrete, pipes, and upcycled materials (a mattress on a stack of wooden palettes, a patio sofa fashioned from salvaged bricks) bring a touch of rough luxe, while hand-crafted ceramics and sensual photographs heighten the air of retro romance. Beautifully presented breakfast and a take-out menu are served in the glass-walled living room. Talented chefs from all over the world often pop up in the open-plan kitchen for supper clubs, while guest DJs and live sets occasionally commandeer the roof terrace, a gritty panorama of unpolished apartments with a glimpse of the Acropolis. Stay here, and you get instant access to Club Monamour, a members’ club for the city’s coolest cats.

Address: Mona, Kakourgodikiou 4, Psirri

xenodocheio Milos

Estiatorio Milos, chef Costas Spiliadis’ growing empire of  Greek restaurants , elevates extreme simplicity into a fine dining experience, treating the purest ingredients with the lightest, most precise touch. Spiliadis’ first foray into the hotel business is equally upmarket but unpretentious. Smack bang in the commercial and political heart of Athens,  Milos  hotel bears all the restaurants’ minimalist hallmarks: lashings of white marble, pale wood, and soft leather. Sleek and airy bedrooms are decorated with minimal fuss but fastidious attention to detail. Some suites have huge terraces overlooking the old Parliament. Facilities are limited to a small wellness and fitness suite, but it’s the food you come for: luscious Greek yogurt with granola and Kythera honey for breakfast, and dinner a tangle of bitter greens and a whole croaker baked in hand-picked flakes of rock salt, chosen from the extravagant seafood display. The ultimate treat: a private lunch on board Spiliadis’ yacht , Milos at Sea.

Address: xenodocheio Milos, Kolokotroni 3-5, Syntagma

Gatsby Athens

Sassy, playful, and pleasingly camp, Gatsby Athens is a fun addition to the booming hotel scene in the so-called ‘Historic Triangle’ (a warren of lively streets between Syntagma and Monastiraki squares). Compact but comfy rooms occupy six floors that have names like Cool and Lavish, instead of numbers. From the suggestive photos on the walls to the ‘after-sex’ room service menu, the vibe is a raunchy weekend or girls’ getaway. The penthouse Party Suite opens onto a roof terrace with a fireplace for chilly nights and a projector for private screenings in the  summer . The colorful lobby bar and restaurant, with picture windows overlooking a hip arcade, does a great weekend brunch, the perfect pick-me-up after too many of bartender Artemis’ Negronis.

Address: Gatsby, Lekka 18, Syntagma

The Modernist

This quiet corner site once housed the Canadian embassy, but there’s nothing stuffy or starchy about the building’s thoroughly modern makeover. There’s almost Japanese attention to both form and function in the black-and-white rooms, whether they are S, M, L, or XL. (The higher the floor, the better the view). All the amenities (many of them on sale in the small concept store) are curated by Athenian movers and shakers: custom-blended teas, monochromatic ceramics, prints by local illustrators, and playlists by local DJs that you can blast on Marshall speakers. Simple breakfasts and wholesome bowls are served in the ground-floor café, an inspiring spot to hang out with your laptop. Deck chairs are lined up along the smart roof deck for sundowners (try the bergamot gimlet) overlooking the National Gallery and the city’s haphazard skyline. Consistently professional staff are never overbearing but always helpfully prompt. A slick operation in every sense.

Address : The Modernist, I.Gennadiou 4, Kolonaki

It’s not so new any more, but this 2011 design hotel still packs a punch. The Brazilian Campana brothers have injected their signature favela chic and sense of humor into what was once a derelict downtown spot. Old furniture is upcycled in inspired ways, as in the lobby walls, which are clad in splintered chairs and tables. It’s all slightly mad, from the trippy, bronze-mirrored bathrooms to the hybrid chairs that look like giant marshmallows. Unfailingly professional staff are in the know about the latest designers to buy and restaurants to try. But the food here is so good that locals come for the weekend brunch with Croque Monsieur and Greek-style Bloody Marys, as well as sassy cocktails at the rooftop restaurant, which doubles as an art library. Very postmodern yet surprisingly fun.

Address: NEW Hotel, Filellinon 16, Syntagma

Set back from the sandy bay of Vouliagmeni in the southern suburbs, the most desirable enclave on the Athens Riviera, the Margi has been around since 1960. But this easy-going, family-run hotel remains a favorite with the moneyed residents. You’ll find them schmoozing at Malabar pool bar or going for broke at Patio, a refined restaurant with just nine tables. Many ingredients come from the hotel’s organic farm. Neutral, wood-paneled rooms with pool or pine views are pretty snug, but guests spend most of their time at the sensational pool or the small, Asian-inspired spa . In summer, book a sunbed at the beach bar, Krabo, on a rocky cove just above the headland, where beautiful, bronzed Athenians make like they’re on Mykonos .

Address: The Margi, Litous 11, Vouliagmeni

Ergon House

This isn’t just a restaurant with rooms; it’s an immersion in Greece’s culinary traditions from a modern, urban perspective. The ground floor Agora is a perpetually buzzy deli, roastery, bakery, and dining room with a four-story, hydroponic ‘vertical orchard’ on one wall and typically Athenian graffiti on the other. Prettily packaged Greek artisan foods also tempt in the rooms upstairs, which range in size from S to XL, with sleeping, living, and bathing areas defined by decorative cinder blocks, terrazzo tiles, and walnut-wood frames. The food doesn’t quite live up to the dashing design, but you can assemble your own groceries in one of the communal kitchens. In the summer, local hipsters congregate at the rooftop bar, where the Parthenon can be glimpsed between the TV aerials.

Address: Ergon House, Mitropoleos 23, Syntagma

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens Arrow

Sometimes only a classic will do. Presiding over central Syntagma Square since 1874, the GB is almost as much of an Athenian landmark as the Acropolis. Its salons have welcomed treaty-signing politicians, matchmaking socialites, and undercover celebrities. Despite several corporate takeovers and makeovers, it still feels reassuringly old-fashioned, all colossal chandeliers, antique paintings, and highly polished marble. A piano player tinkles away in the gilded Winter Garden, and the flawless cocktails at Alexander’s Lounge are still deliciously unadventurous. Perks for guests include an indoor and outdoor pool, a wildly expensive spa, a smart fitness center, an upmarket ‘corner shop’ that stocks silk blouses and leather bags by Zeus + Dione, and prime Parthenon views from the consistently excellent rooftop bar and  restaurant . Look out for the open-air movie screenings in summer.

Address: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Vasileos Georgiou 1, Syntagma Square

Monsieur Didot

There are dozens of crumbling, turn-of-the-20th-century townhouses in Athens crying out to be transformed into charming B&Bs. Best friends Natalia Georgopoulou and Margarita Papaioannou have led the way with a thoughtful revival of this pale-pink property on a quiet corner of Kolonaki, the Knightsbridge of Athens. It still feels, and is run, like a family house: there are just six rooms, with calm, unfussy furniture and offbeat art that doesn’t overwhelm the building’s beautiful structure. The best rooms are The Tale, which has a separate entrance, and The Ode, a snug penthouse with a private sundeck. Ask Natalia to arrange a Greek wine tasting on the secret roof terrace or a curated walking or food tour.

Address: Monsieur Didot, Sina 48, Kolonaki

AthensWas Arrow

If you want to commune with the ancient Athenians, this is the place—the only five-star hotel on the resplendent promenade that circles the Acropolis . The vibe is surprisingly calm and contemporary. Classical references are juxtaposed with modern design classics: black-and-white marble torsos hang above leather Le Corbusier armchairs. Accomplished Greek food—a salad of wilted greens with nut crumble and tangerine, scorpion fish ‘meatball’ soup garnished with bottarga, white chocolate tsoureki (brioche) with kumquat and Greek coffee foam—is served in the smart rooftop restaurant with a side of Parthenon views. Service can be patchy and the carpeted, wood-paneled rooms are a little somber for high summer, but you can’t beat the location.

Address: AthensWas, Dionysiou Areopagitou 5, Acropolis

The Foundry Suites

Hidden down a cul-de-sac, this former type foundry is clad in a patchwork of exposed stone, giant Crittall windows, and climbing plants. Inside, original industrial details are fused with mid-century antiques, bold wallpaper, and bespoke wood and metal bed frames and wardrobes. Perfect for long stays, the 12 rooms are more like loft apartments, with proper kitchens and sunny workspaces. A breakfast basket is delivered to your room or to the magical roof garden, where the Parthenon is visible between the foliage. Head up there to watch the sunset with lively Greek wines (one of the wine-obsessed owners has built a cellar in the basement) and wood-fired pizzas.

Address: The Foundry Suites, Sarri 40, Psyrri

Perianth Hotel Arrow

The curved balconies of this Bauhaus landmark overlook the lively café scene on Agia Irini Square, named after the domed church that anchors the piazza. Inside, it’s a paean to the 1930s—all moody black marble, grey terrazzo floors, and tubular bronze lighting—with dusky-pink sofas, sage-green throws, and a dash of modern art to keep things fresh. Guests have free access to yoga , meditation, and martial arts classes at the deeply calming Zen Centre on the first floor. Detox with sliders and a spritz at the all-day restaurant downstairs, a prime perch for people-watching. With a savvy concierge to help navigate the surrounding bars, markets, and galleries, and the Acropolis just overhead, this is a smart base for exploring both ancient and modern Athens.

Address: Perianth Hotel, Limpona 2, Monastiraki

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens Arrow

The Astir Palace put the Athens Riviera on the map in the 1960s. After a glossy makeover courtesy of the Four Seasons, it’s back—and exactly what this up-and-coming coastline needed: a full-blown seaside hotel that isn’t stuck in the past. Subdued bedrooms epitomize stealth wealth (do pay the premium for a sea view, or better yet, book one of the bungalows tucked among the pine woods). High-rollers quaff Champagne cocktails in Martin Brudnizki’s trio of sexy restaurants, while their glamorous wives are cosseted in the huge waterfront spa, which has seriously effective facials and a hydrotherapy zone where you could happily wallow the whole day. The young and restless can whizz across the bay on water skis. But you could easily while away day after day on a floating sunbed, watching a parade of super-yachts drift by and dazzling sunsets over the Saronic Isles. Tricked out like an Art Deco ocean liner, Michelin-starred Pelagos is the best of several sensational sea-view restaurants.

Address: Four Seasons Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni

You could walk past this Twenties residence on a pedestrian street in upmarket Kolonaki and never know it was the city’s most soulful guesthouse. Step inside and it’s like wandering into the bohemian home of an art collector: there’s a softly lit salon with a Strauss piano, antiques upholstered in vintage fabrics, and a library of wonderful books you want to read. The two ethereal ground-floor suites have verandas shaded by a loquat tree. Up the marble staircase are four more enormous suites with velvet divans, floating beds, intriguing artworks, and sultry bathrooms with rough-hewn marble sinks (one even has a swing). Local chocolatiers, perfumeries, and coffee shops created delicious treats and toiletries in every room. The greatest surprise is the roof garden: an urban jungle of plants, day beds, and outdoor showers. Wonderfully idiosyncratic, this is a rare treasure that feels genuinely lived in.

Address: Shila, Mantzarou 10, Kolonaki

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Athens Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

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

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

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 have points, use them to book accommodation. 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 points and miles .

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens has plenty of affordable hostels to choose from. From hostels to hotels to quaint 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

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:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

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

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate Insiders' Guide to Athens

Editor-in-chief Stellene Volandes has been visiting the city since she was a child—but fell in love all over again as an adult. She knows where to eat, shop, and soak up history like a local.

My Ultimate Athens Itinerary

Day 1: Where to Stay and What to Eat for Breakfast

Wake up at the Hotel Grande Bretagne and have breakfast on the top floor, overlooking the Acropolis. Order your first frappé of the day, a shaken Nescafé iced coffee that is the unofficial drink of Greece. I order mine sketo —no milk, no sugar.

Now head over to Ariston , a bakery founded in 1910 that sells the widest variety of stuffed pitas I’ve ever seen, all made fresh—and mostly sold out by lunchtime. Walk back toward the hotel and over one block and sit outside at Zonars , a legendary café that was revived a few years ago by Chrysanthos Panas, who has restored its Art Deco glory and brought in a modern menu. Have a second frappé.

Shop for Jewelry

Now go directly across the street and into the Lalaounis store; try on as many 22K gold lion head rings and bracelets as you can. Buy something—even if it’s a beaded bracelet or an agate seashell coaster—because, for me, having something Lalaounis is an essential part of the Athens experience. (You can read more about why here .)

Then head up Voukourestiou Street toward Kolonaki Square, which I think of as the Upper East Side of Athens. (I never say no to a third frappé at Da Capo , right in the center of Kolonaki.) And then it’s on to the Ileana Makri store, to buy a sapphire and diamond evil eye charm surrounded by tiny seed pearls (Makri is a pioneer of the form); Liana Vourakis’s legendary shop, for those beautiful enamel egg charms I often post about; Fanourakis , for singular woven gold and enamel pieces; Nikos Koulis , for emeralds and diamonds strung on black cords; Elena Votsi for some of the most original and inspired designs coming out of the country; and Lito , for some of the best geometric gold hoops.

Time to eat again: The ultimate Athens Lunch

You may now have lunch—maybe at Zurbarán , across from Ileana Makri, or go back down toward the center (look for the Syntagma signs) and past the Bretagne toward Agia Irini Square. This is one of my favorite new neighborhoods in Athens, built around a beautiful Byzantine cathedral and with charming restaurants and cafés. Since it’s a busy day, grab a souvlaki sandwich at Hoocut (they make the tidiest ones I have ever eaten), and then maybe treat yourself to the fried honey puffs at Lukumades , right down the street.

Now for a Museum (And some Antiquing)

Then you have to keep walking, straight to the Monastiraki neighborhood, which is filled with touristy stalls but is also the home of Martinos , one of my favorite stores in the world, and one of the oldest in Athens. It has five floors of Greek antiques and portraits and vintage textiles, and you’ll wander them and want it all.

Spend a full afternoon at the Benaki Museum (one of the best collections of ancient and Byzantine jewelry and costumes I’ve ever seen). A recent trip ignited a new obsession with Greek island jewelry made during the Ottoman period. There is a wonderful restaurant on the roof, in case you need to stop for a minute, but I would keep going toward the Museum of Cycladic Art , which in addition to its permanent collection has exhibited contemporary work by Cy Twombly and George Condo (there is also a good café there).

Have a Rest and then Head Out to Dinner

I’m running out of room, and you might be running out of time, but dinner at Papadakis is a must for the spicy shrimp alone. As is a drive out to the Athenian Riviera for drinks at Island (also the brainchild of Chrysanthos Panas), which has a setting by the sea that Athenian dreams are made of. (For adventurous souls I’d also suggest an outdoor Greek concert at one of the nearby nightclubs. For the record, we throw flowers—we don’t smash plates.)

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Now, I haven’t even told you about the little bars and tavernas to be found in the stoas , hidden alleyways that connect the buildings of central Athens; or how to get into Ratka , the Athenian Elaine’s; or the wonders of the pork chop and fries at Telis (the only things on the menu); or the Greek-Japanese fusion place Nolan ; or the cute Koukaki neighborhood, near the Acropolis Museum; or drinks at Clumsies ; or the ice cream at Le Greche ; or lunch at Diporto , a fish taverna in the basement of a fully graffitied building near Athens Central Market; or an afternoon at Astir Beach with lunch at Nice N Easy ; or the loukoumi at the candy emporium Matsoukas .

I’m heading back in November (on Emirates; they fly direct from New York year-round) to give a talk at the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum . I will have more to tell and to post to the ongoing story of the #tandcathensitinerary. And you will too.

Editor-in-Chief Stellene Volandes is a jewelry expert, and the author of Jeweler: Masters and Mavericks of Modern Design (Rizzoli).

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The Luxury Hotels in 'The Reluctant Traveler' S2

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Lonely Planet's guide to Athens

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Here are things a traveler should know on their first trip to Athens, one of the world's most storied cities © Lisa Schaetzle / Getty Images

Founded in 508 BCE, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and it's regularly touted as one of the Mediterranean’s best capital cities to visit. From the iconic Parthenon and the unique street art rivaling that of Berlin  to the city's glittering coastline, there’s so much to see and do in this ancient capital. 

One thing’s for sure: whether you’re into architecture, mythology, ancient sites, modern art or simply relaxing by the beach, Athens has something for everyone.

When should I go to Athens?

Greece generally attracts most people during the summer months (June to August) and Athens is no different, but we recommend visiting in the spring and autumn to avoid the heat. These shoulder seasons – March to May and September to October – offer cooler temperatures and a more comfortable travel experience overall. It’s also worth remembering that Athens is a humid place thanks to its coastline, which creates humid heat in the summer and gives the winter cold an extra chill. Consider this when packing and bring layers for all seasons.

Greek Orthodox Easter usually falls in April or May and the run-up to it, plus the event itself, is a huge celebration in the Greek calendar – even more so than Christmas. Expect street carnivals to mark the end of Lent and street processions to the various neighborhood churches on the Easter weekend, culminating in Mass and a huge meal on the Easter Sunday with a lamb on the spit. 

Restaurant prices won’t change much throughout the year, but accommodation prices do vary.  The same four-star hotel located near the Acropolis could be €140 per night in March and jump up to €320 in June for a weekend date, with Easter time seeing similar price rises.  It’s often cheaper to book directly, and hotels generally only publish their prices about two to three months in advance. 

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Many Europeans come to Athens for a weekend break, and long-haul travelers often use the city as as a stopover on the way to the Greek islands. 

You can get an initial taste of the city in two days, but we recommend a longer stay to truly understand the essence of this ancient capital. With four days, you can spend a day and a half at the capital’s famous sights, spend an afternoon wandering its neighborhoods , and still have time time to explore the beaches and ancient ruins of the Athenian coastline for a day or two.

Is it easy to get in and around Athens?

Located at the crossroads between Europe and the Middle East, Greece (and Athens in particular) attracts many tourists, which means the travel infrastructure is well developed and easy to use. Athens International Airport is 33km (21 miles) and a 30- to 45-minute drive – or a 45-minute metro ride – from the city center. There are also good ferry connections to Greece from Italy, with coach or rail services to and from Athens. 

Island hoppers will set out from the port of Piraeus , which is 45km (28 miles) from the airport and 10km (6 miles) from the city center. Piraeus is well linked to both the center (20 minutes by metro) and airport (a 24-hour bus service that takes about 90 minutes).

Public transport around Athens itself is easy, accessible and affordable, with a single ticket valid for a 90-minute journey and costing a mere €1.20. There is also a range of ticket deals, including  tourist passes lasting three and five days. 

The four modes of transport in Athens are:

• the very clean metro system . Note: no food is allowed.
• the overground train that connects the center to Piraeus port and other mainland destinations.
• an extensive network of  buses and electric trolleys . These primarily run to urban neighborhoods beyond the touristic center. 
• a tram service that connects the city center to the Athens coast and its beaches in about an hour.

After you’ve gotten yourself from the airport to the city center, most of Athens’s popular sights sit within a compact, walkable area. Just be aware of the traffic – cars don’t always immediately stop at red lights, and motorbikes occasionally mount the sidewalk to park.

Top things to do in Athens

Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the  Parthenon , Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum , which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.

Ancient artifacts crop up all over the city in random places, too; the metro stations of Monastiraki, Akropoli and Syntagma are like mini museums in their own right, and there's even ruins of a Roman tomb in a glassed-off area of the Zara clothing store on the shopping street of Ermou.

If it’s shopping you’re into, pedestrianized Ermou St is the place to go. It runs for nearly a mile from the Acropolis area up to Parliament in Syntagma Square, and features tons of fashion brands such as Mac, Desigual and the aforementioned Zara, plus a huge H&M. Greece’s main department store, Attica, is also here, and it's a great place to stock up with your holiday essentials. 

Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens ? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden  next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , or make your way to  Filopappou Hill /Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.

My favorite thing to do in Athens

As an aficionado of street art, I love exploring the burgeoning street art scene here and getting to know the various neighborhoods where it proliferates. Take in the famous Praying Hands Mural just off Omonia Sq, for example, which depicts Jesus praying for the people down on Earth – a play on Albrecht Dürer’s Praying Hands (1508).

I also love wandering around the hidden village of Anafiotika , which sits beneath the northeast side of the Acropolis. A sub-district of Plaka, it was built in the mid-1800s when King Otto brought in workers from the Greek island of Anafi to construct his palace. Homesick, the workers set about making their neighborhood a replica of their homeland, building white, sugar-cubed houses with flat stone roofs and brightly painted wooden doors and shutters, like those found in the Cyclades. Pink and white bougainvilleas wind their way up these buildings, several of which have roof gardens. 

Anafiotika is a bit difficult to find, but worth the effort. Start at the Acropolis main entrance, and walk to your left along the path; keep the monument to your right until you reach the Church of Metamorphosis. Continue straight past the church and follow the wider path up a steep hill. The path turns right and runs into stairs – this is the start of the island village.

How much money do I need for Athens?

Athens isn’t an expensive place to visit compared to other European destinations, especially outside of the high summer season when prices rise significantly.

• Hostel dorm room: approx. €26 per night
• Basic room for two: €36–128, depending of style of hotel and location
• Self-catering apartment: €65 per day
• Public transport ticket: €1.20 for a 90-minute journey, €10 from the airport, €4.10 for a day pass, €20 for a three-day pass including one airport journey, €8.10 for a five-day pass (not including airport)
• Coffee: €2–2.50
• Typical Greek gyros with salad and fries: €2–3
• Dinner for two: €30 (add €2.50 for beer or wine)
• Beer at a pub: €2.50+

What do I need to know before going to Athens?

Bring layers, no matter the season 

As Athens is located on the coast, it’s sticky in the summer and quite chilly in the spring, fall and winter evenings. Layers are always a good idea: think T-shirts, light sweaters and a jacket for the cooler months. For the really hot summer months, bring a sports cooling towel to wrap around your neck to cool off as you explore.

Be aware of your belongings on the metro

As with any capital or big city, pickpockets can take advantage of large tourist crowds, especially on crowded public transport. Avoid hanging large cameras around your neck and keep your backpack in front of you. You may also want to invest in a hanging cord for your cell phone to loop across your body so it can’t be snatched from your hands.

No flushing toilet paper!

The plumbing in Athens is antiquated and the pipes tend to be very narrow. Flushing paper down the toilet will clog things up, so you’ll always find a bin with bag inside it in the bathroom for you to place toilet paper inside. This is removed daily by housekeeping.

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

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 .

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

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 

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.

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

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

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

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 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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

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. 

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

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!

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. 

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!

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 

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

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!  

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

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

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

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

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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• # 5 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Few cities rival Athens, Greece, when it comes to historical importance, yet the bustling capital is also fun and brimming with things to see and do. Visitors will also notice that ancient Athens feels considerably more "lived in" and authentic than other major European cities that are filled with vacation rentals and somewhat devoid of the unique cultural experiences many tourists crave.  

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The 14 best things to do in Athens right now

Fun markets, stunning hikes and the beginnings of western culture? These are the best things to do in amazing Athens

Desperate for sun in 2023? Athens isn’t your typical summer holiday. The Greek capital is bursting with history, from mind-boggling ancient ruins to mesmerising museums. But that’s not all it’s good for. For all its historical charm, Athens is actually a seriously trendy spot, home to great bars and lovely little cafes, as well as a cutting-edge arts and culture scene. 

Like the rest of Greece, the choices for food are endless. We’re talking plates of dolmades, souvlaki and more feta than you can shake a stick out. And the beaches? Not half bad either.  But when you’re done with that, why not stroll through flea markets, hike into the mountains, or visit one of the city's many open-air cinemas ? Whatever you’re here for, there’s more than enough to fill your days. Here are the best things to do in Athens right now.

RECOMMENDED: 🧿 How to spend a weekend in Athens 🥙 The best  restaurants in Athens 🏛️ What to do in  Kypseli, Athens's coolest neighborhood ☀️  Our essential guide to Greece 🏠  The best hotels in Athens

This piece  was recently updated by Demetrios Ioannou , a journalist based in Athens.   At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

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What to do in Athens

1.  The Acropolis

What is it? T his 2,500-year-old rocky outcrop perched in Athens’ modern metropolis is the sight you’ve only dreamed about. The Acropolis finds itself at the very top of our list because if you do one thing in Athens, it has to be this. 

Why go?  The monuments here are considered the greatest architectural feats of Greek antiquity. The Parthenon temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is perfectly proportioned and considered the world’s finest Doric masterpiece.  Round the corner is the Acropolis Museum, which is well worth checking out  – s ince 2009 it has accommodated all the artifacts found in the area that were previously exhibited on top of the ancient hill.

2.  Temple of Poseidon

What is it?  Athens isn’t short on treats for fans of Greek mythology. This temple at Sounion, which is dedicated to the mighty Poseidon, should be one of the first temples on your checklist.

Why go?  He may be the god of oceans, but Poseidon's palace stands 60 metres above sea level on Cape Sounio. This marble temple was first built by ancient Athenians to honour Poseidon and guide sailors safely home. All that remains now is a series of towering columns that don’t half look beautiful against a glorious Greek sunset.  Bear in mind the temple is a bit of a way from the city center, so if you don’t drive, you might need to take a bus or two to reach it (but it's definitely worth it).

3.  The Odeon of Herodes Atticus theatre

What is it? On the foot of the Acropolis hill sits the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a stone Roman conservatory that was built in the 2nd century AD. The conservatory was destroyed in 267 AD and restored in the early 50s. Today, it is considered one of the best-preserved sites in the country, and it still operates as a venue for concerts and other performances.

Why go? Since 1957 it has held various cultural and artistic events as part of the Athens Epidaurous Festival . If you're planning a trip to Athens, be sure not to miss the opportunity to attend a performance at this historic venue, especially during the summer months when the weather is ideal for an outdoor show. It has a total capacity of 5,000 people and is the best place in the city to enjoy a night of ancient Greek drama theater.

4.  The National Gardens

What is it?  Tucked away in the heart of Athens, the National Gardens offer a beautiful retreat from the bustle of the concrete capital.

Why go?  This grandiose park was commissioned by Queen Amalia, the first queen of Greece, in 1838 and completed two years later. The Gardens cover 16 hectares of narrow gravel paths and ponds and a small zoo with wild goats, peacocks and chickens. 

5.  Varvakios Agora

What is it? The  Monastiraki area’s indoor and outdoor food market delights the senses. Starting in the wee hours, Greek vendors bellow out their best deals in an attempt to sell fresh meat, fish, fruit, spices and products from around the country.

Why go? The atmosphere is unlike any other as travellers and locals traverse the narrow aisles lined with hanging meat carcasses, stalls of Greek deli delights and fresh seafood iced down in vibrant displays.    

6.  Monastiraki Neighbourhood

What is it?  Monastiraki is one of the oldest and busiest areas of the capital, packed with rooftop bars, ancient sights and huge markets. 

Why go?  The Monastiraki metro station is right off the picturesque main square (which also has brilliant views of the Acropolis). Go shopping at the Monastiraki flea market, squeeze through thronging pedestrian alleys, and peruse shops filled with antiques, handmade jewellery and Greek handicrafts.  

7.  Plaka Neighbourhood

What is it?  Stretching out under the shadow of the Acropolis, Plaka is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited neighbourhoods. 

Why go?  Duck into the side streets here and explore the charmingly narrow old lanes. They’re lined with a hotchpotch of crumbling buildings from various eras and beautiful restored buildings-turned-stately homes. Plaka boasts a wealth of ancient sites, small museums, historic churches and picturesque small squares buzzing with restaurants and cafés.  Don't miss the Anafiotika area, where blooming bougainvilleas spill out of colourful balconies. It's quite the picture.

8.  Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC)

What is it? An oasis of Mediterranean greenery, plus opera, books and an architecturally-acclaimed main buliding.

Why go?  For 170,000 square metres of parkland, complete with playgrounds, gardens, cafés, a striking eco-friendly glass complex (also home to the Greek National Opera ), a manmade river, and the  National Library of Greece . Plus, there’s a great view of  the Acropolis.

9.  Lycabettus Hill

What is it?  Lycabettus Hill is one of the highest peaks in Athens. You can get to it by hiking up a forested slope – only briefly, mind – or, if you’re feeling lazy, there’s a cable car to the top.

Why go?  At the peak, you’ll find one of the most sweeping views of the city. There’s also a pretty whitewashed church called St George, a café and  Orizontes , a gourmet Greek restaurant with surely the capital’s most scenic terrace. Concerts are held at the Lycabettus open-air theatre, built on another part of the hill, in the summertime. The theatre has been shut since 2008 but is set to finally reopen in late summer 2023.

10.  Onassis Stegi

What is it? Onassis Stegi is said to be the place where contemporary culture meets aesthetics and science, but it’s way more than a typical cultural center in the heart of Athens.

Why go? Stegi, which literally means ‘roof’ in Greek, is a vibrant space which is home to a wide range of cultural events, including theatre and dance performances, concerts, film screenings, art and digital shows. It's a hub for young, restless Greek artists to showcase their talents, while also attracting international performers like Marina Abramovic and John Malkovich. Its restaurant on the top floor of the building offers a breathtaking view of the Acropolis, the Philopappos monument, Lycabettus, and the Saronic Gulf. 

11.  The National Museum of Contemporary Art in Athens

What is it? T he EMST is Athens’s answer to the Tate Modern, Centre Pompidou or the Museum of Modern Art. 

Why go?  This space is filled with art that gets people talking. Expect exhibitions of Greek and international artists across all media, from painting to video to experimental architecture. The museum’s vast home has its own fascinating story; it’s actually a former brewery – Greek beer Fix was once made here. 

12.  The Ellinikon Experience Park

What is it? The area that formerly hosted the (for decades abandoned) Ellinikon International Airport in the southern suburbs of Athens is currently transforming into one of the biggest coastal parks in Europe.

Why go? Relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city in a place by the sea, filled with more than 600 trees and 80,000 plants of Mediterranean varieties. In this first phase open to the public, the park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including a water maze, a forest playground for the children, a serene zen garden and outdoor exercise facilities. It also hosts festivals and a variety of activities all year long, and it looks pretty spectacular when it's all lit up.

13.  Museum of Cycladic Art

What is it?  A lavish museum home to more than 3,000 artefacts of Cycladic, Ancient Greek and Cypriot origin.

Why go?  Enjoy the distinctly shaped slender marble figurines and statues that date back to the Bronze Age. If the Bronze Age isn't your bag, check out one of the 150 objects from the ancient Greek art collections, including vases, figurines and weapons grouped by various themes, including Gods and Heroes, Eros, The World of Women and The Underworld.

14.  Cine Paris

Temporarily closed. Reopening 2024

What is it? Athenians know it’s summer in the city when the outdoor cinemas begin to open up. The legendary Cine Paris, which has been goin g since the ’20s,  is best known for its striking Acropolis views.

Why go? For a proper night out the way Greeks do it. Cine Paris is one of around 90 outdoor film venues in Athens where patrons can watch old Greek and foreign classics, plus the latest Hollywood releases.

Don't want to wait for Cine Paris to reopen? Check out our  local’s guide to open-air cinema in Athens !

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The 10 Best RESTAURANTS in ATHENS in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: October 26, 2023

When you travel to the historic city of Athens, you’ll definitely want to pair seeing the Acropolis with an exploration of Greek cuisine. In this guide, our local expert shares the best restaurants in Athens at every price point. So, whether you’re looking for hearty Greek favorites, a fine dining experience, or restaurants with killer views, there’s something for you on this list.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our guide to Athens for more planning resources, our top Athens tours for an easy way to see the best of this historic city, plus the best Greek dishes to try .

Top 10 Places To Eat in Athens

If you’re in Athens, you’re about to be in foodie heaven! Mediterranean cuisine is one of the best cuisines in the world and if you haven’t already, now’s the time to try it! You’ll eat quality food at affordable prices in the popular center of the city as well as in the suburbs. You’ll also have the option to splurge a little on a gourmet dining experience. There’s a bit of everything in the city of the ancient Greeks.

On this list of the best restaurants in Athens, you’ll find a mix of restaurants at different price points from € to €€€€. The list contains award-winning restaurants, traditional taverns, and famous gyros restaurants. We’ll introduce you to the best restaurants in both the center and suburbs of Athens.

If you love food and travel, you’ll love going on a local food tour! How does a guided walking tour with stops to eat authentic Greek dishes sound? If you’d prefer to make your own Greek dishes, how about a cooking class with a view of the Acropolis? Check out our Athens food tours .

Not ready to book a tour? Explore our  Athens Guide for more resources.

Varoulko Seaside Restaurant

€€€ | Michelin Star | Marina Views | For Seafood Lovers | Outdoor Seating

Located in Piraeus, Varoulko Seaside Restaurant has an elegant atmosphere with beautiful views of the Mikrolimano Marina. With its Michelin star and gourmet Greek dishes prepared under Chef Lefteris Lazarou, you’ll certainly enjoy a fantastic dining experience.

The specialty here is seafood, and you can expect delicious dishes made with top-quality fresh ingredients, all presented beautifully. It’s what you’d expect from a restaurant that’s been continuously awarded a Michelin Star and Greek Cuisine Awards from 1993 to 2020.

If you’re vegetarian, you also have plenty of options, including dairy-free and gluten-free dishes. There’s no better restaurant for seafood lovers than Varoulko in Athens. And the seafront views don’t hurt.

Address: Akti Koumoundourou, 54

€€ | Vegan | Outdoor Seating | Relaxed Ambiance | Healthy Option

Yi restaurant has taken its name from the way we pronounce the Greek word Γη meaning “Earth”. It’s a plant-based café and restaurant with a cozy ambiance, lovely decor, and terrace seating. Located not far from the sea in Glyfada, it’s a great place to come after a walk on the beachfront.

The restaurant offers diners delicious vegan and raw-vegan dishes cooked with fresh Greek products. And you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy a meal here. After your main dish, don’t skip the incredible desserts based on seasonal fruits. Yi is also a great option for a quick snack, a vegan smoothie, or a coffee. This is the best restaurant in Athens for vegans.

Address: Gr. Labraki, 69

Check Out Our Best Food Tours of Athens

Top Rated Tour

Athens Cooking Class with Dinner and Rooftop View of the Acropolis

From delicious baked spanakopita to classic tzatziki sauce, join this cooking class to prepare authentic Greek recipes with an expert chef. With stunning views looking over the Acropolis, enjoy a 3-course dinner of your creations on this memorable experience in the Greek capital. Bring home the recipes and show your newfound culinary skills, along with amazing photos of the food and views.

Starting at €71

Likely to Sell Out

Athens “Locals” Food Tour in Monastiraki

Explore the gastronomic world of Athens through the city’s central market. Enjoy homemade pastries, authentic wines, cheeses, honey-soaked donuts and much more. Your local guide will lead you through the best spots in the lively Monastiraki neighborhood for a delicious experience in Athens.

Starting at €68

GB Roof Garden Restaurant and Bar

€€€€ | Rooftop Garden | Acropolis Views | Fine Dining | Cocktail Bars

If you’re looking for a touch of elegance and luxury on your trip to Athens, head to the restaurant of the Hotel Grande Bretagne. Located in the center of Athens, you’ll enjoy a rooftop dinner with a breathtaking view of the Parthenon. It’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy a fine dining experience after a long day of sightseeing.

Here, award-winning chefs prepare special dishes based on greek products. They offer excellent wines to accompany your meal. If you have enough time in the morning, this is a great place to come for breakfast under the lovely Athenian sun.

Address: Vasileos Georgiou, A1

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Acropolis Guide for more resources.

Fuga Restaurant

€€€ | Garden Setting | Tropical Cuisine | Cocktails

At Fuga, you’ll enjoy a sharing-style menu of what they describe as tropical cuisine with Asian, Latin American, and Mediterranean influences. It’s set in a beautiful garden in the center of Athens—a verdant oasis where you’re sure to relax.

You’ll experience a unique blend of cultures and flavors here. Their philosophy is high-quality and ethically-sourced produce. If you’re looking for a relaxing meal in a lush setting, definitely give Fuga a try. They also have a small terrace with great views and creative cocktails.

Address: Megaro Mousikis, Vas. Sofias & Petrou Kokkali, 1

€€€ | Gardens | Trendy Hangout | Mediterranean Cuisine | Cocktail Bar

Balthazar is a trendy spot set in an 1897 neoclassical mansion with beautiful gardens. It’s a fantastic place to come and enjoy a cocktail on a summer’s evening.

Run by chef Christoforos Peskias, you’ll get to try traditional gourmet dishes alongside sushi and other delicious finger foods. Come with an appetite or come to enjoy the vibe with a cocktail. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy an evening at Balthazar. It’s a cool place in Athens with awesome decor, a big bar, and a menu to satisfy any foodie.

Address: Tsocha, 27

Platanos Tavern

€€ | Traditional Greek Cuisine | Outdoor Seating | Family Friendly

If you visit Athens, you can’t leave without having your lunch or dinner at Platanos Taverna. Since 1932, a lot of famous people have visited this restaurant, such as Kostis Palamas, Marika Kotopouli, and Henry Miller, among others. Located in Plaka, it’s a great place to try authentic Greek cuisine.

Choose from traditional homemade dishes like mousaka, horiatiki salad, fresh seasonal fruits, and greek desserts like karidopita. Don’t hesitate to ask for a glass of tsipouro or ouzo . But be careful, this is not your typical shot! Drink it slowly and savor this traditional Greek dining experience.

Address: Diogenous, 4

Bairaktaris

€-€€ | Hearty Greek Cuisine | Outdoor Seating | Family Run Taverna

This is our favorite traditional taverna in the heart of Athens. After shopping in popular Ermou Street, this is a great place to come and eat hearty Greek dishes with a bustling vibe. Located near Monastiraki Square, you’ll get to people-watch, listen to street performers play music, and admire the Church of the Pantanassa.

Above all, Bairaktaris offers traditional and authentic souvlaki, gyros, and kebabs—all must-try dishes when you visit Athens. Everyone makes a stop here for food, whether it’s to take away or eat in. Don’t forget to try souvlaki with gyros!

Address: Mitropoleos, 71-88

€€ | Outdoor Seating

Gaston in Nea Smyrni is the ideal place to take a break and enjoy lunch in a cozy and elegant setting. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this café-restaurant offers guests a retreat to enjoy a morning coffee with a sweet treat or lunch in the sun.

Expect tasty greek dishes, such as fresh salads, light starters, pizza, and other main dishes. You can also combine your lunch with your favorite drink or cocktail why not, you’re on holiday!

Address: 25th Martiou, 15

Popular Athens Tours

Skip the Line Acropolis Tour with Parthenon and Museum

Towering above the modern city of Athens, explore the ancient forum home to the relics of Classical Greece. From the world’s oldest theatre to the iconic Parthenon, the Acropolis is a beacon of civilization and philosophy. Head back in time to the time of Plato and Socrates on this Skip-the-Line tour.

Starting at €80

Not ready to book a tour? Explore our  Athens Guide for more info.

Mystikos Kipos

€€ | Garden Setting |

In Chalandri, a northeast suburb of Athens, you’ll find a magical place: Mystikos Kipos or “Secret Garden” in English. Surrounded by the scent of the lemon trees and the jasmine in the garden, you can count on a lovely dining experience.

The highlight of this restaurant is its creative gourmet food. The dishes may seem simple but guests always leave pleasantly surprised by the high quality of the food here. Try the quinoa with broccoli, smoked mackerel, and salad with rocket and peach. Mystikos Kipos has quickly become a favorite for those who have discovered this hidden gem.

Address: Karaoli Dimitriou, 21

To Kafeneio

€ | Outdoor Seating | Classics | Local Institution

To Kafeneio is in the shadows of the Acropolis and a great choice for lunch after visiting the Acropolis or Acropolis Museum. The restaurant is located on a quiet street, so you can eat either al fresco or indoors. They serve all of the classic delicious Greek dishes,  so you are bound to come away full and happy!

Address: Epicharmou 1

Where To Stay in Athens

A great hotel at a great price has become the norm in this internet era. Our article explains what areas are the best in Athens, so you can get a great deal in the perfect location!

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Comments (2).

April 7, 2022

We ate at Bairaktaris tonight for our first night in Athens! My 11, 9 and 7 year old all loved it as much as my husband and I did! Wonderful recommendation and exactly what we were looking for! The hotel also recommended it, but we were already planning on going!

April 16, 2022

Thanks for the kind comment. Happy Travels!

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15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

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How To Plan The Perfect Trip To Athens, Greece, According To Travel Experts

Plan a trip to athens, the ancient city of greece, surrounded by beautiful hotels and landmarks with inputs from a travel expert..

By: Stacey Leasca Published: Feb 11, 2024 10:00 AM IST

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of a trip to Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment.

“The Acropolis , one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens’ appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city’s shopping scene, noting, “The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewellery, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own adventure?

Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Athens

Athens, greece.

• Don’t miss Greece’s most recognisable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers’ favourite hotel in the 2023 World’s Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighbourhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

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Best hotels and resorts, four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favourite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city’s major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude.

Book your stay at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel via agoda.com

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favourite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou, a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomises class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favourite hotels in Athens in 2023.

Book your stay at Grande Bretagne via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hotel Grande Bretagne via agoda.com

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there’s no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighbourhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with Art Deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city.

Best things to do

Visit the acropolis.

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artefacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added.

See Hadrian’s Library

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian’s Library. The building, built in 132 AD, was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 (INR 249.09) or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis.

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 am, the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat.

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect.

Best shopping

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighbourhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too.

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colourful neighbourhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travellers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops , and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine.

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase.

Best restaurants

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant . The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavours you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite.

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favourite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won’t be able to stop at just one.

Best time to visit

There’s no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.

How to get there

By Air: Travellers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the US.

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.

How to get around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 (INR 90.22)   per kilometre .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There’s also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath. ena ticket , which starts at €1.20 (INR 108.26).

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

shop the best travel experiences here

All currency conversions were done at the time of writing

(Feature Image Credit: Cavan Images/Getty Images)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

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80 Fun Things to Do in Athens, Greece

Once the beating heart of the Greek Empire, today Athens is overflowing with stories and legends. Ancient meets modern in a surprisingly agile way, giving this inviting capital creative energy that will have you returning for more.

For thousands of years, the city has been known for its cultural output, producing music, art, politics, and some obscure little trends such as the Olympics and democracy.

And while you can still explore that history at length, the city’s evolution after the height of the Greek Empire has been just as impressive.

Sightseeing in Athens isn’t all about temples. After you’ve visited classical landmarks like the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, make sure you leave time for the more unusual things to do in Athens . Snorkeling, cooking classes, and Segway tours are all worthy contenders.

Sure, you’ll see plenty of amazing ruins and marvelous statues, but you’ll also find lively museums, beautiful beaches, and a whole variety of famously delicious food and drink.

And while the city itself is full of delights, it’s also a great homebase for day trips to archaeological sites, unspoiled wilderness, and fascinating settlements with an energy all their own.

Get ready for adventure!

1 – Gaze out over Athens from the Acropolis

Don’t leave Athens without making a pilgrimage to the Acropolis. This iconic hill is the city’s centerpiece – you can see it from every corner of the capital.

Climb up to the top of this ancient citadel for the best views in town. Then experience a dose of true Greek antiquity, as you wander around the mighty Parthenon temple.

• Acropolis tickets & tours

Learn more about Acropolis tickets price .

2 – Admire ancient artifacts at the Acropolis Museum

Discover archaeological treasures as old as time itself in the Acropolis Museum. This is where all the findings from excavations on the Acropolis are displayed, keeping the heritage close to home.

You’ll see over 4,000 exhibits dating from the Bronze Age right through to Byzantine Greece. Highlights include friezes, statues and pots from the Parthenon.

• Acropolis Museum tickets

3 – Visit the world-famous Parthenon

Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon temple has watched over the city since the 5th century BC. A symbol of wealth and power, this imposing religious site was the largest in Greece and now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Athens .

Wander around one of humankind’s greatest architectural achievements and follow in the footsteps of legendary Greek heroes. Go early or late to avoid the heat of the day.

• Parthenon tours

4 – Visit the Temple of Athena Nike

This Greek temple is like no other you’ll have seen. The Temple of Athena Nike commands a strategic position upon the Acropolis, and looks more like a fortress than a place of worship.

This is the earliest Ionic temple in the area and was a protective sanctuary, as well as a religious site.

5 – Explore Ancient Agora …

This archaeological site sits just below the Acropolis and was formerly a gathering place for markets and general assemblies.

Used for centuries by the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines, today Ancient Agora is a testament to the societal structure of these civilizations.

• Ancient Agora tickets

6 – And don’t miss the Temple of Hephaestus

Perched serenely on the northwestern side of the Agora of Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best-preserved heritage buildings in Greece. Dedicated to the ancient god of fire, the temple is a superb example of Doric architecture.

It’s survived earthquakes and invasions, and was used as a burial ground for Europeans in later years. The columns are particularly impressive.

7 – Discover the past at the Agora Museum

While exploring Ancient Agora, make sure you pop into the museum. It’s packed with exhibits from local excavations and is housed in the majestic Stoa of Attalos – see if you can count the towering columns!

Check out everyday artifacts used way back in the Stone Age as you wander around the Agora Museum. There are sculptures and mosaics too.

• Agora Museum tickets

8 – Ride to the summit of Mount Lycabettus

Hop on the funicular and ascend to the top of Mount Lycabettus for the ultimate city view. Feeling energetic? Then hike 300 meters up through the pine-forested slopes instead.

See if you can spy the Acropolis and the coast of Piraeus from the rocky limestone summit. Then pose for selfies with Mount Pentelicus in the background.

• Mount Lycabettus tours

9 – Visit the National Archaeological Museum

A treasure trove of classical artifacts awaits heritage hunters who enter the National Archaeological Museum. Gasp in awe as you come face to face with the golden funerary mask of Agamemnon and check out Bronze Age frescoes from Santorini.

There are also objects rescued from a shipwreck dating back to the 4th century BC, and a whole host of vases, sculptures, and even hieroglyphs.

• National Archaeological Museum tours

10 – Run around the Panathenaic Stadium

Built for the 1896 Olympic Games, the Panathenaic Stadium is a reconstruction of the 330 BC version. Made of marble, it has stood the test of time and is one of the most popular places to visit in Athens.

The stadium was used for some events during the 2004 Olympics and boasts views of the Acropolis from the loftier seats.

11 – Feel scholarly at Hadrian’s Library

Built way back in 132 AD by one of Rome’s most famous emperors, Hadrian’s Library was once crammed floor to ceiling with rolls of papyrus scrolls. Not much remains of the building today, but the ruins are impressive, nonetheless.

It’s located on the northern side of the Acropolis, so it’s easy to fit in as you’re visiting other nearby sights.

12 – Discover picturesque Monastiraki

This charming neighborhood will have your camera working in overdrive — it’s one of the prettiest places in Athens. Wander through the narrow Monastiraki streets, popping into family-run shops for souvenirs and ice-creams.

Come on a Sunday for the famous flea market and pick up a bargain — or spend a sunny afternoon at a pavement café in the shadow of some of the city’s ancient sites.

• city tours in Athens

13 – Get spooked in the First Cemetery of Athens

Feel the hairs on your neck stand to attention, as you take a walking tour around the city’s oldest cemetery. The final resting place of both Greeks and foreigners, this serene sanctuary boasts eminent statesmen, artists and writers as its residents.

Watch out for the shade of a ghostly undertaker who is said to haunt the First Cemetery grounds at night.

• walking tours in Athens

Hot tip: Experience the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Greek capital with the best walking tours in Athens , guiding you through historic streets and landmarks.

14 – See the sights on a segway tour

Rolling around the fabled city streets by Segway is one of the more unusual things to do in Athens. Don’t worry if you’re a Segway virgin, you’ll soon get your balance.

Be the envy of fellow travelers as you rock up to the Acropolis and Ancient Agora on your new wheels. You’ll see twice as much in half the time!

• segway tours in Athens

15 – Enjoy a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Take the stress out of sightseeing and join a hop-on hop-off bus tour around Athens. You can alight at all the major landmarks, so this is an easy way to explore the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, and the Parthenon.

Want to know more about what you’re seeing? Then the guided commentary will answer all your questions.

• bus tours in Athens

16 – Check out the Temple of Erechtheion

Back up on the Acropolis, you’ll find another archaeological gem. Made of marble, the ancient Greek Temple of Erechtheion has been used as a church, a palace and a house for the harem of a Turkish commander.

Today the highlight is the elegantly carved Porch of the Maidens, who seem to bear the weight of the building on their shoulders.

17 – Browse the Cycladic Art Museum

In this hidden gem, you’ll discover the largest collection of prehistoric Aegean art in the world. The Cycladic Art Museum is home to over 3,000 exhibits, with the Cycladic marble figurines being the jewels in the crown.

Admire the abstract simplicity in many of the works, and draw comparisons between them and more modern artists like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.

• Cycladic Art Museum tickets

18 – Photograph the Temple of Olympian Zeus

There’s not much left standing of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, but the towering columns that are left really pack a punch. Built in the 6th century BC, the temple has weathered war, storms, and political tyrants over the years.

You can walk here from the city center and combine it with visits to nearby Hadrian’s Arch and the Panathenaic Stadium.

• Temple of Olympian Zeus tours

19 – Taste Greece on a food tour

On this fun food tour, you’ll be scouring the historic streets of Athens for tasty treats. Swing by the local market and breathe in the scent of spices and fruits. Then follow your nose to bakeries, restaurants and delis for some serious sampling.

Will you prefer the bougatsas (pasties) or loukoumades (honey dumpings)? Leave room for some olives too.

• food tours in Athens

Hot tip: Experience the best food tours in Athens , where you’ll discover the secrets of Greek cooking and sample a variety of authentic dishes from souvlaki to baklava.

20 – Travel through time at the Benaki Museum

Founded by art collector Antonis Benakis, this well-presented museum offers an almost complete chronology of Greek history. You’ll be amazed at the vibrant coloring of the Neolithic vases, and the unusual folk costumes courtesy of the Ottoman rule.

Pop up to the highest floor of the Benaki Museum and check out the unusual weapons recovered from the 19th-century Greek War of Independence.

• Benaki Museum tickets

21 – Visit the Temple of Poseidon

Perched on the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most iconic things to see near Athens. The temple is impressive, but the views of the Aegean Sea are even better.

Come here at sunset for a dash of romance and see if you can find the column graffitied by famous poet Lord Byron.

• Temple of Poseidon tours

22 – Stroll the sleepy streets of Anafiotika

This tiny Athens neighborhood is part of ancient Plaka. Whitewashed houses with brightly-colored window frames cling to the side of the Acropolis, creating a scene beloved of photographers.

Thanks to its Cycladic architecture, the vibe in Anafiotika feels more like an island than a city. Check out some of the Byzantine churches and a 17 th -century monastery – modest clothing is advised if you wish to enter.

Directions in Google Maps

23 – Go snorkeling at Cape Sounion

Perched dramatically on a headland that juts into the Aegean Sea, the Temple of Poseidon is just one reason to check out Cape Sounion. Spend the morning scrambling around the ruins and soaking up the incredible views.

Then plunge into the inviting clear water for a spot of swimming or snorkeling off uninhabited islands. Linger longer for the sunset.

• Cape Sounion tours from Athens

24 – Escape the city chaos and go abseiling at Incuse CHAOS

Drive about an hour from Athens for an abseiling adventure and conquer a giant crater, known as Incuse Chaos. It is an uncommon natural wonder situated in the Kamariza region near Lavrion city in. This remarkable formation takes the shape of a concave heart-shaped crater. Legend has it that the crater was formed as a result of a meteorite impact that occurred during the late 18th or early 19th century.

• abseiling in Athens

25 – Soak up the sun on the Athens Riviera

Did you know that Athens has its very own golden beaches? Tear yourself away from the temples for a few hours and head down to the Athens Riviera for some serious fun in the sun.

Harness the wind on a catamaran cruise, snorkel in secluded bays, or feast on fresh garlic mussels in the local taverns.

• boat tours in Athens

26 – Take a day trip to Delphi

Gracing the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece. Centuries ago, people would travel here to listen to the prophecies of Apollo, relayed by a high priestess.

Legend has it that Delphi is the center of the Earth, so come and stand here yourself, and feel the mythical magic that surrounds this famous sanctuary.

• Delphi tours from Athens

Read more about Best Day Trips From Athens .

27 – Discover hidden districts on a street art tour

Venture well off the beaten tourist trail and let art draw you into a completely different side of Athens.

Your artist guide will introduce you to some of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods, where electrifying graffiti and thought-provoking murals tell a story few visitors get to hear.

Don’t miss the flying elephants or the giant unicyclist!

• street art tours in Athens

28 – Go scuba diving at Nea Makri

Discover the beauty of the underwater kingdom as you propel yourself along the seabed at Nea Makri . You’ll be swimming with colorful fish as they dart along the sandy bottom – can you keep up with them?

The waters are warm with crystal-clear visibility making this a great spot for beginners. Dive from the shore or a boat, with no prior experience required.

• scuba diving in Athens

29 – Browse the Central Municipal Athens Market

One of the top things to do in Athens for foodies is to hang out at the Central Market. Mooch around the stalls and soak up the vibe, letting the aromas entice you in.

Marvel at the dazzling array of spices, cheeses and honey, then taste some of the local delicacies in one of the restaurants. Go in the morning for the energetic vibe.

30 – Visit the monasteries of Meteora

Hop on the train and head up to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, where towering rocks stand like sentinels along the valley. Perched on top of these cliffs is the second largest monastic community in Greece.

You can hike up some of these immense rocky pillars and visit the monasteries in the clouds. Check out hermit caves and wall paintings too.

• Meteora tours from Athens

31 – Admire vintage cars at the Hellenic Motor Museum

Strap into a simulator and feel the thrills of Formula 1 racing as you fly around the track at the Hellenic Motor Museum. Then imagine yourself behind the wheels of gleaming 19th- and 20th-century classic cars.

You’ll get to wander through a car workshop, learn about the evolution of the automobile, and discover transport-related exhibits from 300 BC!

• Hellenic Motor Museum tickets

32 – Eat dinner in the sky

Food always tastes better outdoors, but what about at 165 feet in the air? Dinner in the Sky Athens is your ticket for the most unusual evening out ever.

Settle into your seat and ascend skywards for your 6-course Greek banquet. As you sip wine and watch the chefs prepare your meal, feast your eyes on the Acropolis as sunset floods the horizon.

• dinners in Athens

33 – Get on your bike and see the sights

Make those legs earn their keep as you pedal through the historic streets of Athens on easy cycling paths. You’ll be stopping at key landmarks to learn about the city’s past, with plenty of stories and legends to keep you entertained.

Cycle around the base of the Acropolis, breeze past the fountains in Omonoia Square, and stop at Ancient Agora.

• bike tours in Athens

34 – Explore the Archaeological Site of Kerameikos

This ancient cemetery and potter’s district is a great place to get up close to Greek excavations. In Kerameikos , you can wander around the ruins, getting a sense of what life was like hundreds of years ago.

There are thousands of tombs here, and there’s a small museum showing off the unearthed funerary offerings. Keep an eye out for ghostly goings-on.

Hot tip: Among the best ancient ruins in Athens , the Kerameikos cemetery provides a solemn look at ancient Greek rituals and society’s respect for the dead.

35 – Learn the secrets of Mediterranean food at a cooking class

Is there a better way to discover Greek culture than through a culinary journey? Enroll in a hands-on cooking class for an adventure in Mediterranean flavor.

Start with a trip to the market for fresh ingredients, before heading to the kitchen where the real work begins. Signature Greek dishes like tzatziki, eggplant pies and baklava are all on the menu.

• cooking classes in Athens

36 – Visit the archaeological site of Mycenae

Looking for the ultimate day trip from Athens? Then head to Mycenae in the Peloponnese and wander around one of the great centers of ancient Greek civilization.

This is the kingdom of the fabled king Agamemnon, one of the major players in the Trojan War. Don’t miss the famous Lion Gate as you walk alongside the towering walls.

• Mycenae tours from Athens

37 – Discover Attica Zoological Park

Be wowed by wolves and make friends with monkeys at the Attica Zoological Park, one of the best family things to do in Athens. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals all waiting to get acquainted.

You can walk inside giant aviaries and travel through the African savannah where giraffes and zebra roam. Watch out for the jaguars and rare white lions.

38 – Walk in creative footsteps at the Theatre of Dionysus

Carved into the southern slope of the Acropolis, Dionysus was the very first theater in the world.

Imagine sitting in the stone seats at the Theatre of Dionysus, watching the sun go down behind the cypress trees as performers strutted their stuff down on the stage. It was magical then, just as it’s enchanting today.

39 – Explore the past at the Roman Forum of Athens

Constructed under Emperor Augustus in the 11th century BC, the Roman Forum was the trading hub of the city. Highlights today include the Tower of the Winds and the stunning western gate, both of which have stood the test of time.

This former administrative center will remind you of the Forum in Rome, with its avenues, buildings and temples.

40 – Chill out in the Saronic Islands

Fancy some beach time? Looking for the best Greek Islands near Athens ? Just a short ferry ride from Athens, the Saronic Islands feel a world away from the city bustle. Enjoy a day trip or stay a little longer.

Here you can sail to hidden lagoons for swimming and picnics, or amble through cobbled streets admiring the local architecture. The water is clear, and the welcome is warm.

• Saronic Islands tours

41 – Climb Philopappos Hill

Enjoy a breath of fresh air, as you climb through the pine groves that carpet Philopappos Hill. Named after a Commagene prince and benefactor of Athens, the Philoppapos Monument that sits on top of the hill is also his resting place.

Take a closer look at the intricate frieze on the façade, and soak up the views, which are particularly spectacular at sunset.

42 – Have a day out in dreamy Argolis

Take a break from the city on a day trip to the Argolis peninsula in the picture-postcard Peloponnese. Breathe in the countryside scents, as you drive through orange and olive groves on your way to the ancient cities of Argos and Mycenae.

Check out the beehive tombs, crumbling citadels and scenic amphitheaters. Then meander along the coastal roads for showstopping views.

• Argolis tours

43 – Stroll the streets of Plaka

Escape the bustle of the city center and head up to leafy Plaka. Exploring the winding alleyways of this enchanting neighborhood is one of the most relaxing things to do in Athens.

Take photos of the bougainvillea-draped houses, and tuck into meze platters at pavement cafes. Shopping is fun here too, with ceramics, jewelry and exotic spices all up for grabs.

• Plaka tours

44 – People-watch in Syntagma Square

Bordered by five-star hotels and the Old Royal Palace, Syntagma Square lies at the heart of modern Athens. Come here to admire the regal Parliament building and see the changing of the guard – just like in London but with different uniforms.

If you’re into people-watching, pull up a pew at one of the cafes and settle in for an entertaining afternoon.

45 – Have a blast at Allou! Fun Park

Embrace a dash of whimsy as you enjoy a rip-roaring family day out at Allou! Fun Park  – Greece’s largest amusement attraction.

Hold onto your hats as you ride the Loop It roller coaster, and don’t look down on the Shock and Drop tower plunge.

Younger thrill-seekers love taking a spin on the Ferris wheel and zooming around on the bumper cars.

46 – Explore Athens on a coasteering adventure

Get the most fun out of your trip in Athens with coasteering activities – as swimming is not enough, scramble through the rugged cliffs and jump into the sea! Discover the breathtaking Sounion National Park from every perspective. Rising majestically over the southern tip of Attica, the Temple of Sounion stands as a tribute to the region’s formidable forces. Immerse yourself in the coastal wonders of Sounion as you traverse a dynamic nature trail.

• coasteering in Athens

47 – Test your detective skills on a scavenger hunt

This one is for all aspiring super sleuths looking for unusual things to do in Athens. Search for missing archaeologists, uncover buried treasure and unravel Greek myths on your mission to get to the finish line.

You’ll be following cryptic clues to offbeat landmarks, where solving puzzles is your key to completing the quest. Do you have what it takes?

• scavenger games in Athens

48 – See the Epidaurus theater on a day trip

Never has a theater had such a dramatic backdrop as the one in the small village of Epidaurus. This countryside backwater in the Peloponnese hides one of the best-preserved Hellenic theaters in Greece, and it’s still in use today.

Take your seats for some ancient Greek drama, and marvel at the superb acoustics, as well as the mountain views.

• Epidaurus tours

49 – Visit the Byzantine and Christian Museum

Athens isn’t short of museums, but this one is particularly special. Wannabe archaeologists love visiting the Byzantine and Christian Museum for its dazzling array of gems and unraveling of the Greek timeline.

Keep your eyes peeled for hundreds of documents, frescoes and sculptures. The building is pretty impressive too, with Neo-Renaissance architecture and manicured gardens to admire.

50 – Drive jeeps around Marathon Lake

Buckle up for the ride of your life, as you bounce along the backcountry trails around Marathon Lake. You’ll be navigating through rivers and olive groves, and checking out churches and ancient theaters along the way.

Ramp the adventure up a notch and take the wheel yourself to explore well and truly off the beaten track. Can you handle the adrenaline?

• jeep tours in Athens

51 – Be amazed at the Museum of Illusions

Let your eyes play tricks on you, as you delve into the mind-bending world of the Museum of Illusions . Your senses won’t know what’s hit them because nothing is quite what it seems.

You’ll be defying the laws of gravity in the Reverse Room, and walking upside down in the Rotated Room. Stand on top of the infinity well if you dare!

• Athens Museum of Illusions tickets

52 – Fill your lungs with fresh air at the National Garden

Not far from Plaka, the National Garden is a serene leafy haven that’s a world away from the concrete and marble of Athens.

Previously the Royal Garden, this park has all the pergolas, palms and peacocks you could wish for. There’s a botanical museum to explore, and kids love meeting the wolves and monkeys in the small zoo.

53 – Take a day trip to Corinth

Corinth was one of the first European cities to embrace Christianity and is famous for its rich archaeological heritage. Here you can follow in the footsteps of St. Paul and explore the celebrated Temple of Apollo.

The highlight is the mighty Corinth Canal where you’ll learn how the ancient Greeks pulled ships between the two seas. The canal makes it much easier today!

• Corinth tours from Athens

54 – Get hands-on at the Hellenic Children’s Museum

Set your imagination free, as you browse the mind-boggling displays in the Hellenic Children’s Museum . It’s more an activity center than a museum, and kids relish having a go at the interactive exhibits.

There’s dressing up in old costumes in the attic and a marketplace with stores and workshops to explore. Fun and educational, this family-friendly attraction is great on a rainy day.

55 – Eat cake at Little Kook

This whimsical café is a bit of an insider secret, so let’s keep Little Kook under wraps! Quirky doesn’t even begin to describe this fairytale-inspired coffee shop, which appeals to kids of all ages!

Step over the threshold into a dream world of cake and ice cream, on a theme of dragons, witches and princesses. Décor is seasonal so there’s always something new to see.

56 – Kayak to hidden beaches

One of the fun things to do in Athens for outdoor lovers is to go sea kayaking on the Riviera. You’ll start with a short briefing session before taking to the water for an epic adventure.

Get up close to towering cliffs and see ancient monuments from the water. Then drift languidly into secret bays for swimming and sunset photos.

• kayaking in Athens

57 – Climb down the via ferrata Arma of Athens

Do you love climbing and rappelling on rocky mountains, but don’t want to take risks? Try the via ferrata of Athens in the Parnitha National Park, commonly called Arma. With the aid of steel paths and cables, navigate the beautiful mountain with enhanced safety.

Even if you have limited climbing experience, you can explore and enjoy the thrill of climbing in a controlled and secure environment.

• via ferrata in Athens

58 – Discover the Museum of Greek Children’s Art

The pioneering Museum of Greek Children’s Art is one of the more unusual attractions in Athens. Exclusively featuring works by budding artists under the age of 15, the museum showcases over 10,000 individual exhibits.

Inspired by nature and the architectural heritage of their homeland, the young creators have come up with some mind-blowing 3D works, as well as paintings and sketches.

59 – Soar above Plataies on tandem paragliding flight

See the Attica region like a drone with tandem paragliding , as you just enjoy the front view while your instructor handles the wing. Marvel at stunning valleys and mountains, as you fulfill your dream of flying.

Just an hour’s drive from Athens, you can start your paragliding experience from Plataies Boeotia and Kandili Megara.

60 – Savor the views from Aeropagus Hill

This pine-clad rocky outcrop towers over Athens, enshrouded in myths and legends. Once a place of murder and home to the high court, today Aeropagus Hill gives visitors a superb bird’s-eye view of the city.

The serenity is infectious, and once you’ve scampered up the polished marble steps to the top, you’ll want to linger awhile.

61 – Go day-tripping to Aegina island

You’ll find the blissful island of Aegina in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, just a short hop across the water from Athens.

Bursting with eye-catching Neo-Classical buildings, dreamy seafronts and ancient sights, Aegina should be at the top of your day trip list. The jewel in the crown has to be the majestic Temple of Athena Aphaia.

• Aegina tours from Athens

62 – Explore the beaches of Athens by paddleboard

Never been stand-up paddleboarding before? Don’t worry, you’ll soon be in control of those wobbles. Soak up the scenery as you glide serenely along the coastline, and strike some poses if you dare.

When you fancy a rest, just land at one of the secluded beaches and go for a dip in the warm sea.

• paddleboarding in Athens

63 – Spoil yourself at the spa

It’s important to spoil yourself a bit on vacation, and Athens offers plenty of spas that will do the trick!

Whether you prefer aroma oils, straightforward massages, or a little bit of everything, there are some excellent options all over town.

Try the face and body treatments at Apivita Beehive Spa, the hydrotherapy and beauty regimens at TS Beauty Spa, or the luxurious traditional treatments of Cape Sounio, located next to an ancient temple devoted to Poseidon.

• wellness in Athens

64 – Be entertained at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Love a good amphitheater? Then you’ll be right at home in this vast Roman concert arena. Athenians have been watching performances at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus for over 2,000 years, and now you can too!

Bag a prime spot for a concert on a summer evening and try not to get too distracted by the views over ancient Athens.

65 – Sail over to Hydra

Hydra is one of the closest islands to Athens, making a day trip here a piece of cake. Car-free Hydra is a real charmer, with elegant mansions, lots of donkeys and boats bobbing up and down in the harbor.

Take a walk along the seafront in Hydra Town, visit the museums, then paddle in the turquoise waters that lap against the shore.

• Hydra tours from Athens

66 – Explore Stavros Niarchos Park

Overlooking the bay of Faliron, the Stavros Niarchos Park is a delightful green space with landscaped trails and a playground where kids can burn off some energy. Stroll through lavender gardens and along olive avenues, enjoying the peace and quiet.

There’s a large pool where you can rent sailboats and kayaks if you fancy a splash on the water. It’s a great place to cool off!

67 – Pay your respects at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier

One of the most moving things to do in Athens is to visit the Monument of the Unknown Soldier . This thought-provoking Art Deco monument beneath the façade of the Old Royal Palace is dedicated to fallen Greek soldiers.

The Balkan and Greco-Turkish Wars are both represented, as well as the First and Second World Wars.

68 – Freefall on a skydiving adventure

Take a leap of faith as you step out of the plane and plummet towards earth. Don’t worry, you’ll be firmly strapped to an expert instructor!

Feel the rush of adrenaline as the chute finally opens, giving you time to take in those views. All too soon your feet will be back on the ground, but you’ll be on a high for days!

• skydiving in Athens

69 – Visit the Diomedes Botanical Garden

The largest botanical garden in Greece is a haven of tranquility for those looking for a slice of nature and seclusion. Home to over 3,000 different plant species, the Diomedes Botanical Garden gives a great introduction to the diverse local flora.

Follow secret pathways to hidden glades and breathe in aromatic scents in the herb garden. Bliss!

70 – Enjoy island life on Poros

Head out to sea on a day trip to the tiny island of Poros. It’s just an hour’s ferry ride yet feels a million miles from the Athens bustle.

Spend a blissful day exploring the pretty harbor of Poros Town, and chill out on the beach. Then check out the monastery, hike along pine-clad slopes, or go snorkeling in one of the bays.

• Poros tours from Athens

71 – Contemplate contemporary art at the Frissiras Museum

Here at the Frissiras Museum, you’ll discover the biggest collection of modern European paintings in the country. There’s cutting-edge 21st-century visual art on display, as well as human sculptures and figurative pieces.

The building is picturesque too, with its Neo-Classical design. There are over 4,000 exhibits to check out, so make sure you leave plenty of time.

• Frissiras Museum tickets

72 – Enjoy a day trip to the Peloponnese

Far from the crowds of Athens lies a legendary rural peninsula dominated by rugged mountains and turquoise inlets. You’ll be exploring remote hill towns, medieval citadels and Venetian fortresses on this mini expedition around the Peloponnese.

Chill out on sandy beaches or plunge into the sparkling blue water for some well-deserved relaxation. This really is life!

• Peloponnese tours

73 – Taste the best Greek wines

Athens is home to some of the world’s oldest wineries, many with jaw-dropping views. Sipping a glass of vintage red in the shadow of the Acropolis is one of the most romantic things to do in Athens.

Get to know your grapes, listen to tales of the Greek god of wine, and pair a few glasses with local cheese for that finishing touch.

• wine tastings in Athens

74 – Eat charcuterie at the Karamanlidika restaurant

Karamanlidika is an Athenian restaurant that pays homage to the culinary traditions of the Turkish migrants who fled here in 1923. Today the deli offers up delicious cured meats and aged cheeses sourced from artisanal producers all across Greece.

Book a table in the restaurant and be treated to sumptuous meze platters laden with pastourma, sausages and baklava. Yum!

75 – Picnic in the Pedion tou Areos

With echoes of the Champ de Mars in Paris, the Pedion tou Areos is one of the largest green parks in Athens. It was designed to commemorate the heroes from the Greek War of Independence.

Don’t miss the enormous bronze equestrian statue of King Constantine I or the 16th-century archangel temple. Come for a stroll or a picnic in the fresh air.

76 – Discover historic secrets at the War Museum

Come face to face with military relics at the Greek War Museum in Athens. History buffs will love seeing galleries full of artifacts and documents from many of the major European conflicts.

You’ll see weapons from the Napoleonic Wars, uniforms from the First World War and flags that once led thousands of troops into battle. It’s both shocking and moving.

• War Museum tickets

77 – Visit the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology

Aside from being pretty good at building temples, the ancient Greeks knew a thing or two about science. See their hi-tech inventions for yourself at the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology .

Get your head around Plato’s hydraulic alarm clock and discover the world’s very first analog computer. There are early astrolabes, acoustic radars and musical instruments too.

78 – Raft through the wilderness

While the ocean tends to get the attention around here, you can also have some excellent river adventures!

With a rafting trip, you can see some truly breathtaking natural landscapes, with a little bit of adrenalin thrown in!

Head out on the Arachthos River to navigate some gentle rapids, while enjoying spectacular views of waterfalls and the jaggedly beautiful Tzoumerka Mountains.

It’s a perfect afternoon adventure!

• rafting in Athens

79 – A meal in Athens is always lovely… especially when you’re dining on a rooftop!

Check out the cheese and meat plates at Karamanlidika , the elegant fare at Lithos Tavern , or the hearty dishes at Tavern Klimataria .

Try contemporary Greek food at Hytra Restaurant & Bar , or the seafood at Orizontes Lycabettus .

Feast on cutting-edge veggie dishes at Tudor Hall , or Mediterranean meals at Metropolis Roof Garden ; both spots offer great views of the Acropolis!

And don’t miss the excellent sights at Penthouse 21 , the highest hotel rooftop in the whole country.

80 – Go on a pub crawl

You’ve tasted the powerful ouzo and sipped delectable wine, but have you ever tried Greek beer? It’s something of an institution among insiders, and you’ll soon understand why.

Skip the tourist traps and join your guide on a local-style beer tour or pub crawl. You’ll be stopping at some of the best rooftop bars and breweries to sample beers, cocktails and much more.

• pub crawls in Athens

How to get to Athens?

Book a transfer to and from Athens Airport, and you’ll be dropped off right at your hotel!

Along with saving time and effort when you arrive, these services include helpful drivers that can give you the run-down on the city – a great way to start the trip!

You can also book a service at the end of your trip to get back for your flight with ease.

Where to stay in Athens?

At Electra Metropolis , the possibilities for leisure are endless, whether you’re sunbathing on the terrace, popping out to explore the nearby neighborhoods, or unwinding at the rooftop bar.

Grand Hyatt Athens is filled with glamor, with its contemporary restaurants, stunning views, and a pool and spa perfect for relaxing.

Hotel Lozenge offers gorgeous designs and easy access to top-notch boutiques nearby – and even a bike rental for further exploring!

Melia Athens boasts a spa, sauna, pool, and hot tub, so you can spoil yourself rotten… and if you want to go out, the nearest metro station is a five minute walk!

And at Athens Studios , you can kick back at the bar, admire the city scenery from the top floor, or take a stroll around the area to enjoy museums, restaurants, and the neighboring Acropolis!

• best hotels in Athens

Visiting Athens on a budget?

Free walking tours aren’t just wallet-friendly; they’re also a great way to fully experience the city and its stories.

Whether you’re exploring the worlds of renowned philosophers and the legends of gods or hiking up mountain paths for a new perspective on the area, you’ll be treated to awesome stories and a nice walk.

Be sure to tip your guides!

Where to go next?

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Greece , the city is great… but Greece’s islands are not to be missed!

While there are no wrong answers when choosing where to go, it’s worth checking out our list of some of the best Greek islands to visit right now .

But of course, each group has its own unique charms!

In the Cyclades Islands, you can enjoy awesome nightlife, mellow traditional villages, and plenty of watersports in Paros , Naxos , Mykonos , and Santorini .

Meanwhile, the Dodecanese Islands offer a nice mix of centuries-old history and gorgeous shorelines in Kos and Rhodes .

In the Ionian Islands, you can enjoy the mellow atmosphere and mixed European influences of Corfu ; or head over to Crete , the biggest of all of the islands, for a mix of adrenaline-laced activities and gorgeous archeological sites.

You can also book some great multi-day trips from the capital itself, and explore nearby wonders such as the monasteries of Meteora and the legendary ruins of Delphi.

Final thoughts

From the temples to the mountains and everywhere in between, Greece’s capital hums with energy.

With every footstep, you are retracing the paths of Western civilization; with each sight, sound, and taste, you can enjoy its dynamic present-day form.

You’ll certainly never run out of amazing things to do in Athens… so start ticking some off your list!

Athens with kids? Start here

Five family-friendly activities to kick off your vacation..

As a Londoner, and with bargain flights across Europe available for less than the cost of a dinner for two, I always found cheap, last-minute weekend deals to lie in the sun for a few days. Whether I chose to relax at the seaside resort of Thessaloniki , party with my friends in Mykonos , or take in some ancient history in Rhodes , Greece always topped my list of travel hotspots.

Now that I am a parent and have moved to North America, however, my carefree travel days are less frequent and require quite a bit more planning. But to my surprise, I’ve found Greece to be a supremely kid-friendly destination worth returning to.

People visit Athens , Europe's oldest capital city for the awe-inspiring ancient sites such as the Acropolis and Parthenon . And while kids of all ages can find these sites interesting, Athens also offers lots of other family-friendly activities and attractions including museums, parks, promenades, and more. Whether you’re squeezing Athens in while traveling around Europe, combining a stay in the capital with island hopping , or lingering a little longer, these are the best things to do with kids in Athens.

Visit the ancient Acropolis

Yes, I know it seems like a no-brainer, but the Acropolis is the most complete ancient Greek monument still standing and has been here for 3,300 years (this fact tends to blow the minds of little ones). Kids will love exploring the perimeter of the Parthenon and learning about the goddess Athena, to whom it was dedicated.

Visit on a Sunday to watch the Presidential Guard Unit raise the Greek flag while dressed in their traditional regalia. The walk up the hill is fairly steep and rocky, and strollers are not allowed inside the Acropolis, so take a baby carrier if you have an infant or your little one gets tired walking. Escape the heat by visiting the Acropolis Museum to learn about ancient Greece and the myths and legends that framed life here thousands of years ago. An early morning visit, before it gets too hot, is recommended—and be sure to purchase skip-the-line tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in long queues.

Tip: If you didn’t pack one of your own, there are a limited number of baby carriers with sunshades available to borrow, if you get there early. Inquire at the cloakroom at the main entrance and you’ll just have to leave some ID as a deposit.

Take the cable train to Lycabettus Hill

Every kid loves a cable car ride, especially one that ascends 909 feet up to the highest point in the center of Athens. There’s nothing to look at during the short three-minute journey to the top of Lycabettus Hill as it's entirely within a tunnel, but once you get to the top, you can enjoy phenomenal views across the city. See if your kids can spot the Acropolis and Agora from the top. Refuel at either the cafe or the more upmarket Orizontes , where you can stop and enjoy a bite with all of Athens below you. There’s also a beautiful, white-washed church, the Church of St. George to visit. On the western side of the hill, there is another ancient church, St. Isidore , built in the 15th–16th century in a mountainside cave that feels hidden in a way that older kids in particular love to stumble upon.

Tip: You could walk the more challenging circular path up to the top, but be sure avoid the midday sun if you opt for this route. Then, you can take the cable train back down for a leisurely return trip.

Hit up family-friendly beaches near the capital

Athens offers more than history and ancient culture. Families craving a beach escape will find spots like nearby Glyfada , Varkiza , and beautiful Vouliagmeni Beach particularly attractive due to their family-friendly amenities, clear waters, and laid-back vibe.

• Glyfada Beach is only a 20-minute drive from the center of Athens and is accessible by public transit. You’ll find sandy shores and free beach umbrellas as well as shops and cafes nearby.
• Varkiza Beach is farther away at about 14 miles from the city center, but it's still accessible by taxi. You’ll find a busy beach resort with tons of restaurants, shops, and watersports—plus an open-air fish market that’s worth a visit.
• Vouliagmeni Beach is a 30-minute drive and is accessible by public transit. It’s possibly the most popular beach for a day trip from Athens, thanks to its huge range of amenities including a mini playground, volleyball courts, changing rooms, and free umbrellas and sunbeds with your ticket. For $35, you can purchase a family day card, which includes two adults and two children.

Tip: Pack water shoes to keep little feet comfortable and protected, as many beaches close to Athens like Vouliagmeni Beach, in particular, feature a mix of sand and pebbles.

A note about transportation: Buses in Athens are very reasonably priced but can be confusing for tourists and very busy. Save yourself the hassle and instead book a taxi or travel by metro. Athens’ metro system is easy to understand (with just three routes), well-priced, and frequent.

Enjoy peace and quiet in the national garden

City breaks can be hectic, especially with kids in tow, so de-stress in Athens's beautiful National Garden . Located at Syntagma Square, it offers a retreat from the busy city streets where families can safely wander labyrinth paths under the canopy of a range of international trees and plants including enormous palm trees, Chinese trees of heaven, and eucalyptus. There’s also a small onsite farm to visit with goats and peacocks, a children's library, a cafe, and a playground to enjoy. Entrance to the National Garden is free and reservations are not required.

Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds as well as plenty of snacks and water.

All aboard the Happy Train for a kid-friendly tour

The Athens Happy Train is a toy-like train that offers a delightful, 40-minute sightseeing tour passing Acropolis Hill, the Hellenic Parliament , the Museum of Cycladic Art , Panathenaic Stadium , and more. Begin your journey at Constitution Square (Syntagma) and hop on and off wherever you like. The open-air train is fun to ride and provides fantastic views of iconic landmarks and ancient neighborhoods with bilingual commentary in both English and Greek.

Where to stay:

Although Plaka and Syntagma are the best neighborhoods to stay in to be close to all the top attractions, Kolonaki is a great neighborhood to stay with kids as it’s quiet and safe. Choose the nearby Hilton Athens which has a beautiful swimming pool and entertainment for kids, or the luxurious Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens which has a private beach and a kids’ club.

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The best hotels in Athens

By Rachel Howard

It was only a handful of years ago that hotels in  Athens  were limited to grubby hostels and soulless chains. During  Greece 's economic crisis, developers swooped in as property prices plummeted, snapping up townhouses, office blocks, and empty lofts. And while  Airbnb  has transformed whole neighbourhoods, it hasn’t stalled the capital's booming hotel scene. A new hotel seems to open in the centre of Athens every week — from funky guesthouses and chic boutique hotels to restored neoclassical monuments and coastal resorts. Now full of lodgings so lovely that you’ll definitely want to stay for longer than just a layover, here are the 16 best hotels in Athens .

How we choose the best hotels in Athens

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.

1. The Dolli

Originally a shipping magnate’s mansion and later a famous fabric emporium, this 1925 Plaka landmark has been reimagined as a hotel-Maison by Grecotel, Greece’s largest hotel chain. With its rounded corners and lofty windows, the ornate façade has been beautifully preserved; inside, the look is more flamboyant eclecticism – giant crystals, blobby bouclé sofas, art by Cocteau, Picasso, and Calder. From bijou doubles to vast connecting suites, guestrooms have soaring ceilings, gleaming marble bathrooms, and an air of extravagance. But the real scene-stealer is the roof terrace: the infinity pool creates the illusion that you’re floating in the Parthenon, which is just overhead. You can pick out all the city’s landmarks from the smart rooftop restaurant, where legions of assiduous staff serve a flawless, multi-course breakfast. Whether you’re into ruins or bars, flea markets or museums, everything is on your doorstep at The Dolli.

Address: The Dolli, Mitropoleos 49, Athina 105

2. Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection

A theme runs through this downtown 5-star hotel: busts of ancient Greek philosophers adorn the Plato lobby bar, and your key card comes with a quote by Hippocrates or Socrates. Guests are encouraged to switch off their devices daily for an hour and borrow a book from the library instead. But there are plenty of mod cons too: Simmons mattresses in the monochrome bedrooms, Diptyque amenities in the marble bathrooms, and a heated pool where black-and-white movies are projected in the wellness centre. There’s a buzzy vibe up on the rooftop, where all of Athens stretches before you while you knock back spicy margaritas, seabass ceviche with lotus root chips, and duck and sweet potato croquettes at Japanese fusion restaurant Nyx.

Address: Academias Hotel Athens, Autograph Collection, Akadimias 38, Kolonaki

3. Monument

The name is no gimmick: this neoclassical mansion is actually a listed monument. Designed in 1881 by German architect Ernst Zilller, who shaped ‘modern’ Greece’s 19th-century capital, its restoration was overseen by specialists from the Ministry of Culture, who painted the delicate acanthus flowers on the ceilings and trompe l’oeil wooden staircase. It still feels like a private residence with just nine rooms and a deliberately intimate atmosphere. There’s soft limewash on the walls, brass lamps beside the dark wooden beds, and antique rugs in the enormous bathrooms. Staff are unfailingly lovely and ever ready to make restaurant reservations, prepare the steam room, or book you a massage (ask for Thomas, who has magic hands). Our Epos room had a stunning veranda overlooking the Acropolis, Agios Demetrios church, and the sidewalk chatter of Linou Soubasis, one of the city’s hippest restaurants. You’re in the thick of the Athenian Renaissance here, yet a world apart. As our breakfast waiter Konstantinos said, while we lingered over Greek yoghurt with fruit compote, eggs scrambled with tomato and perfect cappuccinos: “This is a safe space”.

Address: Monument, Kalamida 11, Psirri

4. NEW Hotel

It’s not so new any more, but this 2011 design hotel still packs a punch. The Brazilian Campana brothers have injected their signature favela chic and sense of humour into what was once a derelict downtown spot. Old furniture is upcycled in inspired ways, as in the lobby walls, which are clad in splintered chairs and tables. It’s all slightly mad, from the trippy, bronze-mirrored bathrooms to the hybrid chairs that look like giant marshmallows. Unfailingly professional staff are in the know about the latest designers to buy and restaurants to try. But the food here is so good that locals come for the weekend brunch with Croque Monsieur and Greek-style Bloody Marys, as well as sassy cocktails at the rooftop restaurant, which doubles as an art library. Very postmodern yet surprisingly fun.

Address: NEW Hotel, Filellinon 16, Syntagma

5. The Margi

Set back from the sandy bay of Vouliagmeni in the southern suburbs, the most desirable enclave on the Athens Riviera, the Margi has been around since 1960. But this easy-going, family-run hotel remains a favourite with the moneyed residents. You’ll find them schmoozing at Malabar pool bar or going for broke at Patio, a refined restaurant with just nine tables. Many ingredients come from the hotel’s organic farm. Neutral, wood-panelled rooms with pool or pine views are pretty snug, but guests spend most of their time at the sensational pool or the small, Asian-inspired spa . In summer, book a sunbed at the beach bar, Krabo, on a rocky cove just above the headland, where beautiful, bronzed Athenians make like they’re on Mykonos .

Address: The Margi, Litous 11, Vouliagmeni

6. Ergon House

This isn’t just a restaurant with rooms; it’s an immersion in Greece’s culinary traditions from a modern, urban perspective. The ground floor Agora is a perpetually buzzy deli, roastery, bakery and dining room with a four-storey, hydroponic ‘vertical orchard’ on one wall and typically Athenian graffiti on the other. Prettily packaged Greek artisan foods also tempt in the rooms upstairs, which range in size from S to XL, with sleeping, living and bathing areas defined by decorative cinder blocks, terrazzo tiles and walnut-wood frames. The food doesn’t quite live up to the dashing design, but you can assemble your own groceries in one of the communal kitchens. In the summer, local hipsters congregate at the rooftop bar, where the Parthenon can be glimpsed between the TV aerials.

Address: Ergon House, Mitropoleos 23, Syntagma

7. Hotel Grande Bretagne

Sometimes only a classic will do. Presiding over central Syntagma Square since 1874, the GB is almost as much of an Athenian landmark as the Acropolis. Its salons have welcomed treaty-signing politicians, matchmaking socialites and undercover celebrities. Despite several corporate takeovers and makeovers, it still feels reassuringly old-fashioned, all colossal chandeliers, antique paintings and highly polished marble. A piano player tinkles away in the gilded Winter Garden, and the flawless cocktails at Alexander’s Lounge are still deliciously unadventurous. Perks for guests include an indoor and outdoor pool, a wildly expensive spa, a smart fitness centre, an upmarket ‘corner shop’ that stocks silk blouses and leather bags by Zeus + Dione, and prime Parthenon views from the consistently excellent rooftop bar and  restaurant . Look out for the open-air movie screenings in summer.

Address: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Vasileos Georgiou 1, Syntagma Square

8. Monsieur Didot

There are dozens of crumbling, turn-of-the-20th-century townhouses in Athens crying out to be transformed into charming B&Bs. Best friends Natalia Georgopoulou and Margarita Papaioannou have led the way with a thoughtful revival of this pale-pink property on a quiet corner of Kolonaki, the Knightsbridge of Athens. It still feels, and is run, like a family house: there are just six rooms, with calm, unfussy furniture and offbeat art that doesn’t overwhelm the building’s beautiful structure. The best rooms are The Tale, which has a separate entrance, and The Ode, a snug penthouse with a private sundeck. Ask Natalia to arrange a Greek wine tasting on the secret roof terrace or a curated walking or food tour.

Address: Monsieur Didot, Sina 48, Kolonaki

Alessia Armenise

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9. AthensWas

If you want to commune with the ancient Athenians, this is the place – the only five-star hotel on the resplendent promenade that circles the Acropolis. The vibe is surprisingly calm and contemporary. Classical references are juxtaposed with modern design classics: black-and-white marble torsos hang above leather Le Corbusier armchairs. Accomplished Greek food – a salad of wilted greens with nut crumble and tangerine, scorpion fish ‘meatball’ soup garnished with bottarga, white chocolate tsoureki (brioche) with kumquat and Greek coffee foam – is served in the smart rooftop restaurant with a side of Parthenon views. Service can be patchy and the carpeted, wood-panelled rooms are a little sombre for high summer, but you can’t beat the location.

Address: AthensWas, Dionysiou Areopagitou 5, Acropolis

One&Only Aesthesis hotel review Arrow

The latest milestone in the revival of the Athenian Riviera, Greece’s first One & Only resort offers an unstuffy approach to ultra-luxury. In its 1960s heyday, Asteria beach was a playground for socialites and starlets; many black-and-white Greek movies were shot in the Modernist bungalows and open-air restaurant. The new buildings follow the exact blueprint of the original layout, with 137 bungalows, villas and residences scattered between lush gardens and the shoreline. Interiors are a tour de force of discreet decadence, but it’s the seamless service and cut-above amenities that really elevate the experience. The luscious Guerlain spa is reason enough to book a stay; the nourishing honey and orchid facials are phenomenal. It would take weeks to work through the sensational breakfast spread at Ora restaurant (don’t miss the almond and feta cake). By night, Ora’s lemon-yellow booths become a lively setting for chef Ettore Botrini’s accessible but accomplished Greco-Italian menu. At El Bar, three-Michelin starred Paco Morales has created an extravagant take on tapas, featuring smoky salmorejo with cheese foam and indecently unctuous chicken croquettes with Ras el Hanout mayo. The space is dark and moody, uplifted by an Andalucian soundtrack and exuberant staff. Every guest has two dedicated hosts, on call round-the-clock (via What’s App) for super-prompt room service, restaurant reservations, padel and tennis sessions, or SUP lessons with the Greek national champion. The slim beach is not the best swimming on the Athens Riviera — but once you’re inside this cloistered enclave, you couldn’t care less. If you get antsy, the Acropolis is a 30-minute drive. Private museum tours and boat trips can be arranged. Rachel Howard

11. Perianth Hotel

The curved balconies of this Bauhaus landmark overlook the lively café scene on Agia Irini Square, named after the domed church that anchors the piazza. Inside, it’s a paean to the 1930s — all moody black marble, grey terrazzo floors and tubular bronze lighting – with dusky-pink sofas, sage-green throws and a dash of modern art to keep things fresh. Guests have free access to yoga , meditation and martial arts classes at the deeply calming Zen Centre on the first floor. Detox with sliders and a spritz at the all-day restaurant downstairs, a prime perch for people-watching. With a savvy concierge to help navigate the surrounding bars, markets, and galleries, and the Acropolis just overhead, this is a smart base for exploring both ancient and modern Athens.

Address: Perianth Hotel, Limpona 2, Monastiraki

You could walk past this Twenties residence on a pedestrian street in upmarket Kolonaki and never know it was the city’s most soulful guesthouse. Step inside and it’s like wandering into the bohemian home of an art collector: there’s a softly lit salon with a Strauss piano, antiques upholstered in vintage fabrics and a library of wonderful books you want to read. The two ethereal ground-floor suites have verandas shaded by a loquat tree. Up the marble staircase are four more enormous suites with velvet divans, floating beds, intriguing artworks, and sultry bathrooms with rough-hewn marble sinks, (one even has a swing). Local chocolatiers, parfumiers, and coffee shops created delicious treats and toiletries in every room. The greatest surprise is the roof garden: an urban jungle of plants, day beds and outdoor showers. Wonderfully idiosyncratic, this is a rare treasure that feels genuinely lived in.

Address: Shila, Mantzarou 10, Kolonaki

13. Four Seasons Astir Palace

The Astir Palace put the Athens Riviera on the map in the 1960s. After a glossy makeover courtesy of the Four Seasons, it’s back — and exactly what this up-and-coming coastline needed: a full-blown seaside hotel that isn’t stuck in the past. Subdued bedrooms epitomise stealth wealth (do pay the premium for a sea view, or better yet, book one of the bungalows tucked among the pine woods). High-rollers quaff Champagne cocktails in Martin Brudnizki’s trio of sexy restaurants, while their glamorous wives are cosseted in the huge waterfront spa, which has seriously effective facials and a hydrotherapy zone where you could happily wallow the whole day. The young and restless can whizz across the bay on water skis. But you could easily while away day after day on a floating sunbed, watching a parade of superyachts drift by and dazzling sunsets over the Saronic Isles. Tricked out like an Art Deco ocean liner, Michelin-starred Pelagos is the best of several sensational sea-view restaurants.

Address: Four Seasons Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni

14. The Modernist

This quiet corner site once housed the Canadian embassy, but there’s nothing stuffy or starchy about the building’s thoroughly modern makeover. There’s almost Japanese attention to both form and function in the black-and-white rooms, whether they are S, M, L, or XL. (The higher the floor, the better the view.) All the amenities (many of them on sale in the small concept store) are curated by Athenian movers and shakers: custom-blended teas, monochromatic ceramics, prints by local illustrators and playlists by local DJs that you can blast on Marshall speakers. Simple breakfasts and wholesome bowls are served in the ground-floor café, an inspiring spot to hang out with your laptop. Deck chairs are lined up along the smart roof deck for sundowners (try the bergamot gimlet) overlooking the National Gallery and the city’s haphazard skyline. Consistently professional staff are never overbearing but always helpfully prompt. A slick operation in every sense.

Address : The Modernist, I.Gennadiou 4, Kolonaki

15. xenodocheio Milos

Estiatorio Milos, chef Costas Spiliadis’ growing empire of  Greek restaurants , elevates extreme simplicity into a fine dining experience, treating the purest ingredients with the lightest, most precise touch. Spiliadis’ first foray into the hotel business is equally upmarket but unpretentious. Smack bang in the commercial and political heart of Athens,  Milos  hotel bears all the restaurants’ minimalist hallmarks: lashings of white marble, pale wood, and soft leather. Sleek and airy bedrooms are decorated with minimal fuss but fastidious attention to detail. Some suites have huge terraces overlooking the old Parliament. Facilities are limited to a small wellness and fitness suite, but it’s the food you come for: luscious Greek yoghurt with granola and Kythera honey for breakfast, and dinner a tangle of bitter greens and a whole croaker baked in hand-picked flakes of rock salt, chosen from the extravagant seafood display. The ultimate treat: a private lunch on board Spiliadis’ yacht, Milos at Sea.

Address: xenodocheio Milos, Kolokotroni 3-5, Syntagma

16. Gatsby Athens

Sassy, playful, and pleasingly camp, Gatsby Athens is a fun addition to the booming hotel scene in the so-called ‘Historic Triangle’ (a warren of lively streets between Syntagma and Monastiraki squares). Compact but comfy rooms occupy six floors that have names like Cool and Lavish, instead of numbers. From the suggestive photos on the walls to the ‘after-sex’ room service menu, the vibe is a raunchy weekend or girls’ getaway. The penthouse Party Suite opens onto a roof terrace with a fireplace for chilly nights and a projector for private screenings in the  summer . The colourful lobby bar and restaurant, with picture windows overlooking a hip arcade, does a great weekend brunch, the perfect pick-me-up after too many of bartender Artemis’  Negronis .

Address: Gatsby, Lekka 18, Syntagma

Sister hotel to Shila, Mona shares the same romantic aesthetic but with a sharper industrial edge to suit the downtown location. A converted textile factory on a graffiti-lined side street, Mona is surrounded by the myriad bars and boutiques of Psirri and the bazaar-like Athens central market. Open-plan bedrooms (and bathrooms – beware if you’re intimacy-averse) are like film sets, with antique daybeds, muslin drapes, and oversized velvet cubes tossed like dice on distressed terrazzo floors. Exposed concrete, pipes, and upcycled materials (a mattress on a stack of wooden palettes, a patio sofa fashioned from salvaged bricks) bring a touch of rough luxe, while hand-crafted ceramics and sensual photographs heighten the air of retro romance. Beautifully presented breakfast and a take-out menu are served in the glass-walled living room. Talented chefs from all over the world often pop up in the open-plan kitchen for supper clubs, while guest DJs and live sets occasionally commandeer the roof terrace, a gritty panorama of unpolished apartments with a glimpse of the Acropolis. Stay here, and you get instant access to Club Monamour, a members’ club for the city’s coolest cats.

Address: Mona, Kakourgodikiou 4, Psirri

18. The Foundry Suites

Hidden down a cul-de-sac, this former type foundry is clad in a patchwork of exposed stone, giant Crittall windows and climbing plants. Inside, original industrial details are fused with mid-century antiques, bold wallpaper, and bespoke wood and metal bed frames and wardrobes. Perfect for long stays, the 12 rooms are more like loft apartments, with proper kitchens and sunny workspaces. A breakfast basket is delivered to your room or to the magical roof garden, where the Parthenon is visible between the foliage. Head up there to watch the sunset with lively Greek wines (one of the wine-obsessed owners has built a cellar in the basement) and wood-fired pizzas.

Address: The Foundry Suites, Sarri 40, Psyrri

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