Athens is the capital and the largest city of Greece, and one of the oldest and most influential cities in the world. Athens is the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, art, and science. The city is full of ancient monuments, museums, and cultural attractions, as well as modern amenities, nightlife, and gastronomy. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or fun, Athens has something for everyone.
In this article, we will give you a complete guide for travelers, with the best things to do in Athens, the best time to visit, the best places to stay, and the best tips to enjoy your trip.
Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon
The Acropolis is the most iconic and impressive landmark of Athens, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a hilltop complex that dates back to the 5th century BC, and it contains several ancient temples and buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
The Parthenon is the most famous and majestic of them, dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron of the city. The Acropolis offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding mountains, and it is a must-see for anyone who visits Athens.
Explore the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is one of the best and most modern museums in the world, and it showcases the artifacts and sculptures that were found on the Acropolis hill. The museum has a glass floor that reveals the archaeological excavations below, and a glass wall that faces the Acropolis, creating a visual connection between the ancient and the contemporary.
The museum displays more than 4,000 objects, such as statues, friezes, pottery, and jewelry, that illustrate the history and the culture of ancient Athens.
Wander around the Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was the heart of public life in ancient Athens, where people gathered to socialize, trade, debate, and worship. The Agora is a large open space that contains the ruins of various buildings and structures, such as the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, the Altar of the Twelve Gods, and the Tholos. The Agora also has a museum that exhibits the finds from the site, such as coins, pottery, and sculptures.
See the Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest and most impressive temples in Greece, dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus. The temple was built over several centuries, from the 6th century BC to the 2nd century AD, and it originally had 104 colossal columns, of which only 15 remain today. The temple is located near the Arch of Hadrian, a monumental gate that marked the boundary between the old and the new city of Athens.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is the largest and most important museum in Greece, and one of the finest in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks that span from the prehistoric to the Roman times, covering more than 5,000 years of history and culture. The museum displays more than 20,000 objects, such as statues, vases, jewelry, weapons, and frescoes, that represent the achievements and the legacy of the ancient Greek civilization.
Stroll through Plaka and Monastiraki
Plaka and Monastiraki are two of the most picturesque and lively neighborhoods in Athens, located at the foot of the Acropolis. Plaka is the oldest and most charming part of the city, with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and quaint shops and cafes. Monastiraki is the flea market area, where you can find a variety of goods, from antiques and souvenirs to clothes and books. Both areas are full of history and culture, with many monuments, churches, and museums to explore.
Watch the changing of the guards at Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is the main square of Athens, and the location of the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Every hour, you can witness the changing of the guards, a ceremonial and patriotic event that involves the evzones, the elite soldiers who guard the tomb. The evzones wear a traditional uniform, consisting of a skirt, a vest, a cap, and shoes with pom-poms. They perform a slow and synchronized march, accompanied by a military band.
Enjoy the view from Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens, rising 277 meters above sea level. The hill offers a panoramic view of the city, the Acropolis, the sea, and the mountains. You can reach the top of the hill by foot, by car, or by a funicular railway. On the top of the hill, there is a small church, a restaurant, and a theater, where you can enjoy a concert or a show.
Taste the Greek cuisine
Athens is a paradise for food lovers, as it offers a variety of dishes and flavors, influenced by the Mediterranean, the Balkan, and the Middle Eastern cuisines. The Greek cuisine is based on fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as olive oil, cheese, yogurt, honey, herbs, vegetables, fish, and meat.
Some of the typical dishes you should try in Athens are souvlaki (grilled meat on a skewer), moussaka (baked eggplant with meat and béchamel sauce), spanakopita (spinach pie), dolmades (rice and herbs wrapped in grape leaves), and baklava (pastry with nuts and honey). You can also try some of the local drinks, such as ouzo (anise-flavored liquor), raki (grape-based spirit), and retsina (white wine with pine resin).
National Garden of Athens
Escape the urban bustle in the heart of the city at the National Garden of Athens. This oasis boasts lush greenery, charming pathways, and hidden monuments, providing a tranquil retreat.