Athens is a city that breathes history and culture in every corner. Walking through its streets is like traveling back in time, surrounded by ancient monuments, lively neighborhoods and delicious cuisine.
In this guide I tell you about the best things to see in Athens. From the most iconic archaeological treasures to charming local spots, here you will find everything you need to enjoy this fascinating city to the fullest. All based on my experience of living in the country.
At the end of the article I leave you a practical map with each of the sites I mention in the article.
What to see in Athens
1. Acropolis
The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Located on a rocky hill, this monumental complex was the centre of religious and cultural life in ancient Greece. Its elevated position not only made it more visible, but also a symbol of power and devotion to the gods.
What to see in the Acropolis
- Parthenon: The most iconic temple, dedicated to Athena, protective goddess of the city.
- Erechtheion: Famous for its Portico of the Caryatids, sculptures of women that function as columns.
- Temple of Athena Nike: A small temple celebrating the victories of Athens.
- Propylaea: The majestic entrance that gives access to the enclosure.
- Sacred Olive Tree: Although it is a young olive tree, it represents the tree that, according to mythology, the goddess Athena gave to the city, making it its protector. This olive tree symbolizes the prosperity and protection of Athens.
From the top, the views of the city are spectacular and allow you to understand why this place remains one of the most impressive places to visit in Athens.
Then, there are a couple more buildings that belong to the Acropolis, but their access is independent from the main enclosure, they are:
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: A theatre that is still used for concerts and cultural events. For me it is the most beautiful theatre in Greece. The most beautiful views of the Odeon are from the Acropolis, very close to the entrance.
- Theatre of Dionysus: Considered the oldest theatre in Europe, where the works of playwrights such as Sophocles and Euripides were performed.
The best time to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning, when there are fewer tourists and the sun is not as intense. If you plan to visit all the archaeological sites in Athens, this combined ticket will save you money and is valid for five days. Plus, by purchasing it in advance you can skip the queue at the ticket office.
Another alternative is to join this guided tour of the Acropolis so you don't miss a single detail.
👍 Friend's tip: Don't forget to bring water if you travel in the summer and comfortable shoes with some grip, as the ground can be slippery.
2. Acropolis Museum
At the foot of the hill, the Acropolis Museum is one of the best things to do in Athens that complements the visit to the archaeological site.
Some of the most notable pieces you will find are the original sculptures and friezes that adorned the Parthenon. In addition, there are ceramics, sculptures, artifacts and for me the best thing is to see the original caryatids of the Erechtheion. Without a doubt, a must-see stop to understand the historical and cultural context of the city.
To avoid the queue, I recommend buying your ticket on this page. If you plan to make several visits, this museum pass that includes the Acropolis will be more cost effective.
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3. Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was the heart of Athens' social, political and commercial life. This vast open-air space is surrounded by ruins that tell stories of philosophical debates, bustling markets and religious ceremonies.
The highlight of the visit is the Temple of Hephaestus, which is in a perfect state of preservation. Walking through this area will allow you to see remains of ancient administrative and religious buildings. Then, the Stoa of Attalos, reconstructed and converted into a museum, gives you an idea of what the covered markets of the time looked like.
This is one of the must-sees in Athens, a place full of history and meaning. On this page you can buy the combined ticket that includes the Acropolis and other archaeological sites in the city.
4. Plaka District
Plaka is the most picturesque district of Athens, known as the “district of the gods” due to its proximity to the Acropolis. Its cobbled streets are full of neoclassical houses, traditional taverns and small craft shops. It is truly one of the places to see in Athens without rushing to enjoy the atmosphere.
Here I recommend you make a couple of stops:
- Church of Agios Nikolaos Rangavas: It is the oldest Orthodox church in Athens, built in the Byzantine style and a historical landmark. It also has a beautiful interior decorated with frescoes and mosaics.
- Brettos Bar: One of the most beautiful bars in Athens with a very unique decoration, at the same time it is the oldest ouzo distillery in Athens, a traditional Greek anise liqueur. They have a varied menu with ouzo, wines, delicious non-alcoholic cocktails and some things to eat.
Plaka, is also one of the best areas to stay in athens, where you will have the most emblematic places within walking distance.
5. Monastiraki District
The Monastiraki district is one of the most vibrant and authentic places in Athens, and I personally love it. With its mix of history, culture and commerce, it's an ideal place to wander aimlessly and discover its corners. The cobbled streets are full of shops, cafes and restaurants where you can try authentic Greek food.
This is one of the best areas to do shopping in athens. This is also where you'll find the famous second-hand market, filled with antiques, vinyl records, vintage clothing and unique souvenirs. Although many shops at the Monastiraki second-hand market are open every day, Sunday morning is its busiest time, when street stalls are set up in the streets and squares of the area.
6. Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in Athens and the city's nerve centre. Its name, which means "Constitution Square", dates back to 1843, when King Otto was pressured to grant a constitution to Greece.
It is also the meeting place for important events, demonstrations and celebrations. If you travel to Greece in winter, in this square is where you will find the most beautiful Christmas tree.
From the square you will have a good view of the Greek Parliament, which is across the street, which looks especially beautiful at sunset.
7. Changing of the Evzones Guard
The changing of the Evzones guard is one of the most colourful traditions and must-see attractions in Athens. It takes place on the esplanade in front of the Greek Parliament, next to the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. The Evzones, in their traditional costumes, perform a precise choreography that is fascinating to watch.
The change is every hour on the hour, although the most special time to see it is on Sundays at 11:00 a.m., when the ceremony includes a military band.
If you want to know more about this fascinating and historic changing of the guard, you can join this free tour that includes several emblematic points of the city.
8. Mount Lycabettus
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens and the best viewing point in the city, from where you will have an incomparable panoramic view. You can get there by walking along a path surrounded by vegetation or by taking the cable car, which costs 9 euros one way or 12 euros round trip.
At the top, you'll find the small church of St. George, which adds a picturesque touch to the place. At sunset, this is one of the most magical places to see in Athens, with the Parthenon illuminated and the Aegean Sea on the horizon.
9. Central Market of Athens
The Central Market in Athens is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the daily life of the city. Here you will find fresh fish, meats, spices, cheeses and a wide variety of local products. It is a great place to pick up delicious Greek products.
If you are a food lover, this is one of the must-sees in Athens that you will love. In addition, in the surroundings there are small taverns where you can try authentic Greek food at affordable prices. Like the Machairitsa tavern that has finger-licking lamb (kleftiko) and in the afternoon/evening it is usually enlivened by live musicians.
10. Panagia Kapnikarea Church
Right on Ermou Street, one of the most commercial streets in Athens, is the Byzantine church of Panagia Kapnikarea, dating back to the 11th century. Its architecture is a mix of Byzantine and medieval influences.
One of the things that draws the most attention is its location among modern buildings in a commercial area of the city. If you visit it, don't miss admiring the mosaic of the Virgin with the Child Jesus in the south portico.
11. Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium is unique in the world as it is built entirely of white marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, but its history dates back to ancient Greece, when it hosted athletic competitions in honour of Athena. Today it is still used for some major events such as the annual Athens Marathon.
If you are interested in the history of sport, don't miss a stroll through the stands and the track of this historic stadium on your trip to Athens. If you buy this museum pass , you will have the entrance included.
12. Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important in Greece and in the world. Its collection spans from prehistory to late antiquity, with such emblematic pieces as the Mask of Agamemnon and Cycladic sculptures.
This museum is a must to understand the cultural richness of Greece. If you are looking for things to do in Athens full of history, this place is a must-see. On this page you can buy the advance ticket that includes the digital guide.
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Map of Must-Sees in Athens
Final Thoughts
These are the best places to see in Athens, a vibrant city where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony. These must-sees have the perfect mix of culture, tradition and unique experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.
In this Greece guide You can continue reading all my articles, based on my personal experience of living in the country.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘
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Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.