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Things to do in Athens

A bucket-list must. Pair visits to the Acropolis' top with walks through the Greek Capital's grungy underbelly.

Our most recommended things to do in Athens

Athens: Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

1. Athens: Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

Save time and money during your time in Athens with a pre-booked combo ticket that gives you skip-the-line access to 7 of Athens' top archaeological sites. Enjoy savings of up to 50% and avoid the long lines of tourists at the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Aristotle's School, Hadrian's Library, and Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery. Marvel at the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, standing on Acropolis Hill, and immerse yourself in this impressive structure's 2500 years of rich history. Whilst there, visit the Ancient Agora that lies on the north-western slopes of the Acropolis. Learn more about this former artistic, spiritual, and commercial center. Just north of the Acropolis, explore the site of the Roman Agora, which was once the focus of public life in Athens. You can also enjoy access to the renowned Hadrian's Library and Temple of Olympian Zeus in the Olympion Site, as well as Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery that stretches to the banks of the Eridanos River and the nearby Lyceum.

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

2. Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

Meet your licensed tour guide, an experienced archaeologist, and then start your unique combination of a tour. Enter from the south slope of the acropolis and set off on your leisurely walking tour of some of the world’s finest monuments. Along the way, listen as your guide shares knowledgeable insight into the citadel’s ruins including excavation details. Visit the Theater of Dionysus, an amphitheater that is arguably the birthplace of performing arts. Perch yourself on a stone seat to imagine the sights and sounds experienced by ancient theatergoers who came to watch plays by Greek writers Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Also, pass the Odeon of Herodes Atticus; the theater is still used today during the Athens Festival from May to October. Find peace and quiet at an Asclepius, a healing temple that honored the god of medicine Asclepius, before the Parthenon. Wander around the temple to learn about how it was constructed for the goddess Athena. Once you familiarize yourself with the site's classical architecture, head indoors to the New Acropolis Museum for a brief break and refreshments (at own expense) in the cafe. Ranked one of the top 5 museums in the world, the New Acropolis Museum boasts collections of statues and other relics of everyday life in several galleries. In the Gallery of the Slopes of the Acropolis, the glass floor occasionally reveals an archaeological excavation site.

From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

3. From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

Explore the Saronic Islands of Poros, Hydra, and Aegina on this day trip from Athens. Cruise over the azure waters of the Mediterranean sea and have free time on each island. Savor a mouth-watering buffet lunch and enjoy an app-based audio tour of the island of Hydra. After a morning transfer by bus from Athens to the port, hop on board a cruise ship and be invited to one of its spacious open decks. From the deck, you’ll have a great vantage point for enjoying views of the Greek coast. An app-based audio tour is also included in your trip. The first stop is the island of Poros, the smallest of the 3 islands you’ll visit on the tour. It’s separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait. Have ample time to explore the island and once you’re on board again you’ll be served a delicious lunch as the ship sail towards Hydra. Take in the stunning views as you enter the port of Hydra and see the cove that at one time served as a shelter for pirates. From the open decks, marvel at the dramatic landscapes of this island. As an added perk, download the mobile app (instructions found on your confirmation voucher), put on your headphones, and listen as licensed guides and experts on storytelling present you with original stories and historical information about the area. There will be time for you to explore the narrow, stone-paved streets of the island on foot, or by saddled donkey, which is the traditional mode of transportation. If you choose to go by foot, you can walk along the old seaside promenade and perhaps stop at some of the small shops. When you return to the ship, the captain heads for Aegina which is the largest of the 3 islands on the tour. Apart from its beautiful harbor, there are numerous interesting sites that you’ll have a chance to discover on your own. Alternatively, you can join an excursion to the Temple of Aphaia at an additional cost. Return to your cruise-boat and enjoy your one-hour sail back to the port. Disembark and finish your trip (if option selected) in Athens.

Athens: Acropolis Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket with Audio Tour

4. Athens: Acropolis Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket with Audio Tour

Visit the Acropolis, perhaps Greece's most important landmark and one of the world's most-visited sites. Book this skip-the-ticket-line ticket to avoid the long wait at the ticket office. Get the most out of the experience with an audio guide on your phone and uncover the history of the city. Receive your e-ticket by email and check your voucher for instructions on how to download your audio guide. Then, with your phone and headphones in hand, go directly to the South Entrance, close to the Acropolis metro station, and scan your ticket at the ticket-validating machines. Put on your headphones and open the app on your phone to begin your tour. Listen as professional, licensed guides, and experts on storytelling present you with historical information and narrate original handpicked stories. Take as much time as you need. Walk into the Theater of Dionysus and then, see the UNESCO-listed Parthenon Temple, which is dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. Visit the Propylaea, the temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Wander around all sides of the hill and get some marvelous views of the capital of Greece. See the surrounding mountains and the blue Aegean sea which surrounds Athens. 

Athens: Acropolis & Top Attractions Tickets with Audio Guide

5. Athens: Acropolis & Top Attractions Tickets with Audio Guide

Explore the ancient Acropolis at your own pace with skip-the-line e-tickets. Choose to upgrade your experience with optional combo tickets to the city's top archaeological attractions and museums, including Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, Kerameikos, Olympieion, Roman Forum, Hadrian's Library, Aristotle's Lyceum, and the National Archaeological Museum. You can select the ticket-only option or the ticket with audio option to access up to 6 captivating audio tours on your smartphone. Uncover the history of the city as well as a number of fascinating sites that shaped contemporary Athens on a self-guided audio walking tour. After booking, simply download your ticket and audio tours on your phone with the link sent to you. Once you enter each attraction, put on your headphones and discover the sites through the power of storytelling and learn historical information and uncommon anecdotes from ancient times.

From Athens: Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Half Day Tour

6. From Athens: Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Half Day Tour

Visit the scenic coastal views of Cape Sounion on a private or semi-private tour from Athens with hotel transfers. Travel along south Attica’s shoreline roads to reach the ancient Temple of Poseidon. Get panoramic vistas of the Aegean and explore the ruins of this temple before catching a beautiful sunset. Start your day with pickup at your accommodation in Athens. Enjoy a comfortable 50-minute drive along the coastal roads of Attica in an air-conditioned minivan and admire the idyllic beaches and small villages that pass by. Arrive at Cape Sounion and make your way to the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, dedicated to the Greek god of the sea, and embark on a guided tour of this historic landmark. Learn about the mythology linked to the temple before having time to relax and take in the panoramic views over the Aegean. Continue to one of Cape Sounion's blue flag beaches to admire the sunset or swim in the paradisical Aegean Sea. After the tour, travel in comfort back to your accommodation in Athens.

From Athens: Full-Day Rail Tour to Meteora w/ Hermit Caves

7. From Athens: Full-Day Rail Tour to Meteora w/ Hermit Caves

Important Notice - Until May 31st, 2023: Please note that the schedule of the train has been changed by the Hellenic Train until May 31st, 2023. The train will now depart from Athens at 08:28 and arrive at 12:49, and the return trip from Kalabaka will be at 17:35 with an arrival in Athens at 21:57. As a result, the duration of the tour will be approximately 4 hours and we will visit 2 monasteries instead of 3. However, the rest of the program remains the same. Please note that this only applies to reservations made until May 31st, 2023. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding.

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, and Museum Tour with Tickets

8. Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, and Museum Tour with Tickets

Travel back in time on an informative and fun tour of the Acropolis of Athens. Guided by a field expert and licensed tour guide, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site through a journey into history, mythology, and storytelling. Continue with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, which has been ranked as one of the top museums in the world. All the original surviving masterpieces from the temples of the Acropolis are displayed with the use of natural light. Excavations are also visible under glass floors and walkways. Visit Acropolis hill. See the Dionysus Theater, where famous ancient dramas and tragedies were first performed. Walk around the stunning Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the sanctuary of the healing god Asclepius. On the top of the hill, visit the Propylea Temple of Nike and the Erechtheion Temple. See the Parthenon, which is the symbol of democracy and western civilization. Dating back to the 5th-century, these monuments are testimonials of the glorious ancient Athens and the Golden Age of Pericles. At the Acropolis Museum, explore the ground floor where exhibited artifacts reveal facets of the Athenian daily life. Get to know wedding customs, children's favorite toys, healing techniques, and religious practices. On the first floor, stand at a breathing distance from the mysterious archaic statues of the 6th century, which once adorned the Acropolis. Be fascinated as you walk next to the Caryatids and huge pieces of the Acropolis entrance. On the final floor, next to the breathtaking view of the Acropolis, admire the original unique concept and artistic excellence Parthenon frieze.

Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket with Audio Tour

9. Athens National Archaeological Museum Ticket with Audio Tour

Experience the National Archaeological Museum at your own pace with a skip-the-ticket-line entry ticket sent to your email, and a fascinating self-guided audio tour which can be downloaded directly to your smartphone. Travel back to ancient times to admire masterpieces from various periods of Greek history, and see how they have influenced modern life as we know it. Put on your headphones and discover the stories of the mask of Agamemnon, the Mycenaean Bull, the bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the horse rider, through powerful storytelling from a knowledgeable guide. Learn historical information and hear untold stories and anecdotes from times past, creating an engaging and informative experience. This is an unmissable opportunity to gain valuable insights into ancient Greek art and society and explore the exhibits in an entirely original way. The audio tour can be used repeatedly and at any time, before or after your visit.

Athens: Delphi Guided Day Trip with Pickup & Optional Lunch

10. Athens: Delphi Guided Day Trip with Pickup & Optional Lunch

Explore the most famous sights of ancient Greece on a full-day guided mythology-inspired tour, at the same time with zero carbon footprint. Ignite your imagination with mythical tales of the culture and history of Delphi. Learn about the Oracle, ancient ruins like the amphitheater, and the Temple of Apollo, and immerse yourself in local history. Depart from Athens and travel to Delphi, located on the spur of Mount Parnassus. On your way, admire the Greek countryside and cross into the land of King Oedipus, a tragic mythical hero whose fate was determined after receiving a message from the Oracle from Delphi.  Start with a coffee break in Livadia. Once you’ve arrived in Delphi, visit the theater and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. Gain insight into the world of the Ancient Greeks. Visit the Temple of Apollo and learn all about common ancient rituals. After the exploration of the Delphi site, discover the stories behind some of the most important artifacts of antiquity in the Museum of Delphi. Marvel at the unique bronze Charioteer, the Naxian Sphinx, and the Statue of Antinoos, which provide insight into ancient Greek culture and history. After a lunch break, visit the Athena Pronaia Sanctuary, the most photographed spot in Delphi. Head back to Athens via the beautiful mountain village of Arachova, situated on the hills of the Parnassus Mountains where the tour will stop for a short photo opportunity.

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Frequently asked questions about Athens

What are the best day trips and excursions from Athens?

The best day trips and excursions from Athens are:

Meteora

Insider tips: Planning a trip to Athens

Thomas Dowson is the founder of Archaeology Travel, a website for those seeking adventures in archaeology and history. As a professional archaeologist Thomas enjoys visiting archaeological and historical sites around the world. And sharing these experiences so that others can explore the world’s pasts more deeply. On his blog, you can find more information and all the details for planning a trip to Athens.

What should I do on my first trip to Athens?

Perhaps an obvious suggestion, but really no one should miss the Acropolis, and the Acropolis Museum. Find a guide, in whatever form, that will help you see more of this ancient citadel than the Acropolis of the 5th century BC. As spectacular as these ancient monuments are, there is more to the Acropolis than the Parthenon and Erechtheion.

What are some hidden gems to see in Athens?

Besides the Acropolis, and the other 5 well known ancient sites, there are many ruins dotted about the city. One of my favourites is in view of the Tower of the Winds. Just beyond the Roman Agora is a doorway that was once the entrance to an Ottoman era theological school, and then a prison. Very little of Ottoman Athens survives today, much of it destroyed deliberately - such as the mosque on the Acropolis. Little remnants like these add a lot to the story of Athens.

How much time should I spend in Athens?

Not surprisingly most people come to Athens to see the ancient sites. For this, three or four days will not only give you enough time to see most of these plus a day trip to Delphi and/or an afternoon trip to Sounion to watch the sunset. But, I strongly recommend adding a day or two to explore beyond the historical centre of Athens. Each neighbourhood has its own character: visit the Central Varvakios Market in Psirri or go in search of street art in Exarchia.

What food is Athens known for?

Athens is great for walking. And if anything goes well with walking it is street food. Gyros and souvlaki are my go to choices while exploring the city on foot. A gyros is a pita bread filled with shaved meat cooked on a rotisserie. Souvlaki on the other hand is diced meat on a stick cooked on a hot plate. Add a good tzatziki sauce to either and for me that is heaven in your hands. Vegetarian versions made using grilled cheese are just as good!

What is the best way to get around Athens?

Central Athens is easy to get about on foot. Here are all the main attractions and lots of good hotels. For those who want to stay a bit further out, there is a good metro system. Whether you arrive by air or sea, the metro also serves both the airport and the port.

What are the best months to visit Athens?

Having been visiting Athens for over 20 years, my favourite times of the year are the beginning of May and the beginning of October. In May the city is gearing up for summer and not yet crowded, and the Jacaranda trees are in bloom. In October the summer crowds have left, and it is not too hot.

What is neighborhood Exarchia known for?

Most visitors to Athens will only experience the Exarchia neighbourhood through the National Archaeological Museum. The streets might not look as inviting as in other areas, but this is definitely an area to explore, particularly if you like graffiti and street art. Exarchia is also known as the riot area of Athens, being the site of some major street riots in the history of Athenian politics.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

As many of the historical attractions are in the Monastiraki and Plaka areas, there are also many restaurants serving the usual Greek cuisine for tourists. A better area in my opinion, and not far from the centre of Athens, is Psirri. I was introduced to this area on a food walking tour of Athens. Besides the central market area, you will find some great restaurants, bars and cafes, filled with local Athenians as well as a few visitors.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

The southern slopes of Lycabettus Hill, between Syntagma and Evangelismos metro stations, is Kolonaki - one of the most upmarket areas of central Athens. Kolonaki is perfect for high-end shopping. A more affordable shopping experience can be found on the streets running between Syntagma and Monastiraki Squares.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Athens?

Given how popular a tourist destination Athens is, there is a good choice of accommodation in most areas of the city to suit all budgets. When it comes to choosing one of these areas, I keep coming back to central Athens. For me, nothing beats a hotel with a view of the Acropolis.

What are the best annual events in Athens? 

The beautifully preserved Herodes Atticus Theatre just below the Acropolis, provides a truly evocative setting for the annual Greek Festival. On offer is a varied programme of dance and music from June to August.

What are the best areas for outdoor activities around Athens? 

For anyone who enjoys hiking, Athens has a number of green spaces that provide the perfect opportunity to get some outdoor activity while on holiday. And with spectacular views. Closer to the city centre is Filopappou Hill, a vast area with many walking routes through ancient ruins. For those feeling a bit more energetic, climb Lycabettus Hill - the tallest of the seven hills.

What are the best beaches around Athens? 

Although there are sandy beaches from the port of Piraeus to Cape Sounion, those closer to the port are probably not top of anyone’s list. And of course nothing could beat swimming in clear blue waters below the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. But the most popular beaches with easiest access from Athens can be found in the Kavouri-Vouliagmeni area.

Other Sightseeing Options in Athens

Want to discover all there is to do in Athens? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Athens

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 23,420 reviews

It was such a lovely drive and on the way, we stopped at an ancient Acropolis dated back to 1600BC. It was surreal sitting on the same steps as theatre goes that many centuries ago. Once we arrived at Sounion, we could see the Temple of Poseidon and it was an amazing view. There is a lovely cafe there to grab refreshments and once you’re up on the hill at the temple, you see nothing but the most amazing views of the Aegean. Athina our host was amazingly knowledgeable. She shared the entire Greek mythology timeline with us the entire way. Very much recommended. The Sunset was gorgeous and unforgettable!

This was our favorite thing we did on our trip to Greece. The ruins are well preserved with no scaffolding at the moment unlike the ruins in Athens. And the ropes allow you to get pretty close for great pictures. It's placed on a hill top overlooking the ocean, making it a gorgeous setting at sunset. There was a restaurant, store, and bathrooms at the stop also. Teddy was an energetic guide and a wealth of information. Nothing negative to say about it. This is a must while in Athens.

Our guides Manolis and Mini were absolutely fantastic. They were knowledgeable but more importantly they were engaging. They took us to amazing places we would never have found ourselves which were owned by local independent people rather than the big chains which made it even more special. We went for the private tour so were able to discuss everything from living in Greece to world history and politics. Would definitely recommend

Easy to purchase and 100% when they say you SKIP THE LINE! I turned up at about 8.30am and there weren’t many people in the line but when I left at 10am there were at least 70/80. Buying my ticket online and being able to just show it at the gate saved me a lot of time if I had turned up later.

Excellent tour! We appreciated that our guide, Stelios, had a background in archeology and gave us detailed explanations of everything we saw. He was enthusiastic and had great energy, too! Two hours was the perfect amount of time.