Top Things to Do in Athens

About the City

Athens, a city where history brushes shoulders with urban grit, offers an adventure where the past is always under your feet. Picture this: strolling around the mighty Acropolis, an enduring symbol of antiquity, as the sun bathes ancient marble in golden light – awe-inspiring, to say the least. Down the winding paths, buzzing tavernas invite you with the aroma of sizzling souvlaki and the clinking of ouzo glasses, a treat for the senses! Yet, not all that glitters is gold. Modern Athens isn't without its woes; graffiti tags play a visual symphony upon city walls – some call it art, others an eyesore. Swift mopeds zip through the maze of streets, a chaotic dance that can test the patience of visitors and locals alike. Summer brings a sweltering heat that can make even the most leisurely exploration a sweaty challenge. And let's not forget about the occasional rendezvous with antiquity; unexpected archaeological sites spring up amidst the urban sprawl, halting construction with a whisper of, 'There's history here!'. It's a wild ride of juxtaposition, where every corner offers a surprise, and every moment could be a step back in time. Athens – a city with a heart that beats in time with the pounding of ancient drum and modern-day hustle alike.

Things to Do in Athens

Attraction Image

Munch on Moussaka

Food & Drink

Get ready to dive into a slice of heaven with Moussaka, a creamy, dreamy eggplant-based dish layered with minced meat, a touch of cinnamon, and crowned with a rich béchamel sauce. It's like lasagna's ...

Attraction Image

Climb to the Acropolis

Sights

Feeling sporty? Pull on some comfy shoes and trek up to the ancient citadel that defines Athens – the Acropolis! Stand in awe of the majestic Parthenon, catch your breath at the Erechtheion, and snag ...

Attraction Image

Hiking Philopappos Hill

Outdoors

Alright, my fellow trekking enthusiasts, time to lace up your most comfortable shoes and tackle Philopappos Hill! Not only will you get a mini workout, but you'll be treated to some killer panoramic v...

Attraction Image

Rock-Hop 'Round Ruins at the Acropolis

Outdoors

Ready to be an urban Indiana Jones? Scramble over the storied stones and get up-close with ancient Greece! This isn't your average stroll in the park, it's a historic hopscotch over ruins that'll have...

Chomp on Cheesy Tiropita

Food & Drink

Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry filled with the rich, tangy embrace of feta cheese. That's Tiropita for you – Greece's own cheese-pie sensation! Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or any time ...

Gorge on Galaktoboureko

Food & Drink

Brace yourselves for a syrupy adventure with Galaktoboureko, the custard-filled treat enveloped by layers of golden, crisp phyllo dough. This sinfully sweet pastry is like a sunbath of flavor for your...

Bargain Hunt at Monastiraki Flea Market

Sights

Dive into the bustling bazaar vibe at Monastiraki Flea Market. Score some vintage goodies, antiques, or just snoop around for odd trinkets. It's a treasure trove for the curious and the perfect place ...

Time Travel in the Ancient Agora

Sights

Stroll through the Ancient Agora and feel the echoes of ancient market chit-chat. This place was the heart of Athens back in the day, and it's easy to see why. There are temples, a concert hall, and e...

Gaze at the Guard Change

Sights

Pop over to Syntagma Square and witness the epic changing of the guards. It's like a choreographed ballet with pompoms on shoes! These guys are the presidential guards, and they're decked out in tradi...

Discover the Anafiotika Alleys

Sights

Sneak away from the city buzz and teleport to island vibes right in the shadow of the Acropolis. Anafiotika, with its whitewashed houses and bougainvillea blossoms, is a slice of the Cyclades in the c...

Honeyed Horiatiki Harmony

Food & Drink

Get whisked away on a tangy odyssey with Horiatiki, Greece's iconic village salad. Dive into a refreshing mix of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sharp onions, shiny green peppers, and that all-import...

Bask in Baklava Bliss

Food & Drink

Prepare for a sticky, nutty journey with Baklava, the king of Greek sweets. This majestic mosaic of nuts and spices, held together by spoonfuls of honey and the crispiest filo layers known to mankind,...

Botanical Bliss at the Diomidous Botanical Garden

Outdoors

Wander or picnic in the Diomidous Botanical Garden - an emerald expanse that'll have you buzzing with joy just like the bees around you! Marvel at the array of plants, find your favorite shady spot, a...

Sea Kayaking to Hidden Coves

Outdoors

Paddle your way to seclusion with a sea kayaking adventure along the Athenian Riviera! Explore craggy coastlines and discover hidden gems of beaches that are tucked away from the tourist trail. It's l...

Glide Through History on Wheels

Outdoors

Hop on a segway and swish through the streets of Athens like a modern-day Hermes! It's a breeze on wheels that'll let you see the sights without tiring out your mortal legs. Plus, you'll have the powe...

Watch the Sunset from A Different Angle

The Unexpected

Think you've seen all the sunset spots? Think again! How about catching those last golden rays while dangling off the side of a mountain? That's right, gear up for some twilight rappelling down the At...

Go on a Culinary Quest

The Unexpected

How well do you know your Greek cuisine? It's time to put your tastebuds to the test with a culinary scavenger hunt around the city. Snag a local foodie map and embark on a gastronomic adventure, loca...

Picnic with Philosophers

The Unexpected

Ever wanted to dine with Socrates? Grab a to-go feast (don't forget the olives) and find your spot in one of Athens' historic sites for a picnic with a philosophical twist. Just imagine debating the m...

Unlock the Secrets of the Central Market

The Unexpected

Get your hustle on in the belly of the city - the Athens Central Market! Dodge between locals bargaining for fresh goodies, let the riot of colors and scents lead you on a sensory treasure hunt, and g...

Art Hop in the Streets of Psyri

The Unexpected

Fancy a slice of artsy action? Psyri is your go-to canvas. Cruise the streets to uncover stunning murals and graffiti that turn this 'hood into a living art exhibition. It's an Insta-bonanza where eac...

More Resources for Athens