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Updated: March 15, 2025
Athens is a city where history and culture come alive around every corner. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by ancient monuments, vibrant neighborhoods, and mouthwatering food.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to see in Athens. From iconic archaeological treasures to charming local gems, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of this fascinating city. All recommendations are based on my personal experience living in Greece.
At the end of the article, you’ll find a handy map with all the locations mentioned.
What to see in Athens
1. Acropolis
The Acropolis is Athens’ most iconic landmark and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Located on a rocky hill, this monumental complex was the heart of ancient Greece’s religious and cultural life. Its elevated position made it both a symbol of power and a place of devotion to the gods.
What to See at the Acropolis
- Parthenon: The most iconic temple, dedicated to Athena, protective goddess of the city.
- Erechtheion: Famous for its Caryatids, sculpted female figures that serve as columns.
- Temple of Athena Nike: A small temple celebrating Athens’ victories.
- Propylaea: The grand entrance to the site.
- Sacred Olive Tree: While the current tree is young, it represents the mythical olive tree Athena gifted to the city, symbolizing prosperity and protection.
From the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Athens, which helps you understand why this site remains one of the city’s most impressive attractions.
There are a couple more buildings that belong to the Acropolis, though their access is independent from the main enclosure:
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: A beautifully preserved theater still used for concerts and cultural events. You’ll get the best view of it from the Acropolis entrance.
- Theatre of Dionysus: Known as Europe’s oldest theater, it hosted plays by Sophocles and Euripides.
The best time to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning, it’s less crowded, and the sun isn’t as intense. If you plan to visit several archaeological sites in Athens, this combined ticket will save you money and is valid for five days. Booking in advance also saves you time by skipping ticket lines.
Another great option is joining this guided Acropolis tour, so you don’t miss any details.
👍 Friendly Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, bring water and wear comfortable shoes with some grip—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 and perfectly complements your visit to the archaeological site.
Here, you’ll find original sculptures and friezes from the Parthenon, along with ceramics, statues, and artifacts. My favorite part? Seeing the original Caryatids from the Erechtheion up close. It’s a must-see to truly understand the city’s historical and cultural significance.
To skip the line, I recommend buying the ticket here.
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3. Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was the center of Athens’ social, political, and commercial life. This open-air site is surrounded by ruins that tell stories of philosophical debates, bustling markets, and religious ceremonies.
The highlight is the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples. You’ll also find remnants of administrative and religious buildings, while the Stoa of Attalos, reconstructed and now a museum, gives you an idea of what ancient covered markets looked like.
This is definitely a must-visit site for history lovers. You can grab this combined ticket here that includes the Acropolis and other key archaeological sites in the city.
4. Plaka District
Plaka is Athens’ most charming neighborhood, often called the "Neighborhood of the Gods" because of its proximity to the Acropolis. Its cobblestone streets are lined with neoclassical houses, traditional tavernas, and small artisan shops. It’s one of the best places in Athens to wander at your own pace and enjoy the atmosphere.
Here are two stops I recommend:
- Agios Nikolaos Rangavas Church: This is Athens’ oldest Byzantine-style Orthodox church, with a rich and significant history. The interior is beautifully decorated with frescoes and mosaics.
- Brettos Bar: One of the most stunning bars in Athens, known for its colorful decor. It’s also 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 small bites.
Plaka is also one of the best areas to stay in Athens, with many of the city’s main attractions within walking distance.
5. Monastiraki Neighborhood
Monastiraki is one of Athens’ most vibrant and authentic neighborhoods, and it’s a personal favorite of mine. With its mix of history, culture, and commerce, it’s the perfect place to explore and discover hidden gems. The cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine.
This neighborhood is also one of the best ares for shopping in Athens. Monastiraki is home to the famous flea market, filled with antiques, vinyl records, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs. While many shops are open daily, the market truly comes alive on Sunday mornings when street vendors set up stalls throughout the area.
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6. Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks and the heart of the city. Its name, meaning "Constitution Square," dates back to 1843, when King Otto was pressured to grant Greece a constitution.
The square is a gathering place for major events, demonstrations, and celebrations. If you visit Greece in winter, you’ll find the city’s most beautiful Christmas tree here.
From the square, you can enjoy a great view of the Greek Parliament across the street, which looks especially stunning at sunset.
7. Evzones Changing of the Guard
is one of Athens’ most captivating traditions and a must-see experience. The ceremony takes place in front of the Greek Parliament, next to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Evzones, dressed in traditional uniforms, perform a precise choreography that is fascinating to watch.
The ceremony happens every hour on the hour, but the most special time to see it is on Sundays at 11:00 am, when it includes a military band.
If you want to dive deeper into this historical tradition, you can join this free walking tour, which also covers several key spots in the city.
8. Mount Lycabettus
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens with the best panoramic views of the city. You can hike up the scenic trail surrounded by greenery or take the funicular, which costs €9 one way or €12 for a round-trip.
At the summit, you’ll find the small church of Saint George, adding a picturesque touch to the view. Sunset is a particularly magical time to visit, with the Parthenon illuminated and the Aegean Sea stretching out in the distance.
9. Central Athens Market
The Central Athens Market is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the city’s daily life. Here, you’ll find fresh fish, meats, spices, cheeses, and a wide variety of local products. It’s also a fantastic place to pick up some authentic Greek goods.
If you’re a food lover, this is one of the top places in Athens to enjoy. Around the market, you’ll find small tavernas serving traditional dishes at affordable prices. For example, Machairitsa Taverna is known for its mouth-watering lamb (kleftiko), and in the evening, there’s often live music.
10. Panagia Kapnikarea Church
Right in the middle of Ermou Street, one of Athens’ busiest shopping streets, stands the Byzantine church of Panagia Kapnikarea, dating back to the 11th century. Its architecture beautifully combines Byzantine and medieval influences.
What makes this church even more special is its striking location, surrounded by modern buildings in a lively commercial area. Be sure to check out the stunning mosaic of the Virgin with the Child on the south porch when you visit.
11. Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium is truly one of a kind, as it’s entirely made of white marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, but its roots trace back to ancient Greece, where athletic competitions were held in honor of Athena. Today, it continues to host major events, like 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. Entry is included if you get this museum pass.
12. National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece—and the world. Its collection spans from prehistory to late antiquity, showcasing iconic artifacts like the Mask of Agamemnon and Cycladic sculptures.
This museum is essential for diving into Greece’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re seeking things to do in Athens full of history, it’s an absolute must-see. You can book your ticket in advance here, which includes a digital guide.
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Map of Must-Sees in Athens
Final Thoughts
These are the must do in Athens, a vibrant city where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony. These must-see spots have the perfect mix of culture, tradition and unique experiences. . I’m sure they’ll make your visit truly unforgettable.
In this Greece guide you can read 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! 😘
More about Athens and Greece
- How to Get to Athens from the Airport + Map
- 18 Athens Travel Tips for First-Timers
- 10 Best Day Tours from Athens
- 6 Best Food Tours in Athens
- Free Museum Entry Days in Athens and Greece
- 6 Best Places to Rent a Boat in Greece
- How to Get to the Greek islands and Go Island Hopping + Maps
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.