Athens

Travel Guide

Acropolis showing heritage elements, a ruin and heritage architecture
Monastiraki Flea Market which includes a square or plaza, street scenes and a city
Greece showing street scenes and a city
Temple of Hephaestos which includes a temple or place of worship and heritage architecture
Athens featuring shopping, markets and signage
This sparkling white, world-class city will take your breath away with dazzling hilltop views of the mountains and sea, and glimpses into the age of antiquity.

Athens is where the age of antiquity meets the best of the modern world. All this against the backdrop of mountain and the crystal blue Aegean Sea, dotted with islands. There’s plenty to do, whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or simply enjoy Greek mythology and the fantastic views.

Be forewarned that the days here can get hot after noon, especially during the height of the tourism season in summer. So, plan on taking your walking tours during the morning. After a strong cup of Greek coffee, head out to explore the many archeological sites in and around the city center. Visit Pnyx Hill, where great orators such as Aristides and Pericles impassioned their countrymen to take part in the world’s first true democracy. Stroll through the Ancient Agora, where Socrates and Plato walked in flowing togas, debating philosophy. Marvel at the remains of ancient temples dedicated to the gods of Mt. Olympus, as well as stellar views, atop The Acropolis.

There are plenty of museums and galleries to cool off in during the afternoons. The affluent downtown neighborhood of Kolonaki is home to high-end shops and restaurants as well as The Benaki Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored family mansion, this is a great place to get an understanding of the history and culture of Greece. The New Acropolis Museum, located in the historic area of Makrygianni, explores the art, culture and customs of the inhabitants of the Acropolis from pre-historic times through late Antiquity.

While the city can easily keep you busy, don’t miss taking a car or bus trip out to the countryside. The Temple of Poseidon is set on a rocky hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea, on the picturesque Saronic Gulf in Cape Sounion. Delphi and some of the other islands are also close enough for a day trip. If you’re not too tired upon your return, check out the nightlife in and around Omonia Square.  

Where to stay in Athens

Academy of Athens which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and an administrative buidling

Athens City Centre

4.5/5(2,178 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums, charming cafes, and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Athens City Centre. Top attractions like Syntagma Square and Acropolis are major draws. Catch the metro at Panepistimio Station or Syntagma Station to see more of the city.

Athens City Centre
Plaka featuring night scenes, dining out and street scenes

Plaka

4.5/5(637 area reviews)

Discover the "Neighborhood of the Gods" with its close proximity to the Acropolis and numerous archaeological sites. Wander through Anafiotika's traditional Cycladic architecture and visit some of the numerous museums.

Plaka
Athens showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a ruin

Monastiraki

4.5/5(473 area reviews)

Flea market vibes abound in this bustling shopping district, where you can find clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores. Easily accessible via Monastiraki Metro Station, it's perfect for bargain hunting and exploring Athens' old town.

Monastiraki
Syntagma Square showing a city

Syntagma

While you're in Syntagma, take in top sights like Syntagma Square and jump on the metro at Syntagma Station to see more of the city.

Syntagma
Mount Lycabettus featuring a city and mountains

Kolonaki

4.5/5(213 area reviews)

Upscale central Athens area on Mount Lycabettus' southern slopes, featuring boutiques, haute couture shopping, and museums like Benaki and Goulandris. Enjoy nightlife at bars, ouzeries, and ride the Lycabettus Funicular to the summit.

Kolonaki
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Psirri

3.5/5(203 area reviews)

Travelers come to Psirri for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Athens Central Market and Omonoia Square while you're in town.

Psirri
The Stanley

The Stanley

4 out of 5
1 Odisseos Str., Athens, Attiki
The price is ¥25,479 per night from Sep 3 to Sep 4
¥25,479
¥30,722 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,957 reviews)
"Extremely friendly service, nice rooftop restaurant and pool. Spacious room."

Reviewed on Aug 26, 2025

The Stanley
Grand Hyatt Athens

Grand Hyatt Athens

5 out of 5
115, Syngrou Avenue, Athens, Attica
The price is ¥22,916 per night from Sep 24 to Sep 25
¥22,916
¥28,664 total
Sep 24 - Sep 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
Grand Hyatt Athens
Sofitel Athens Airport

Sofitel Athens Airport

5 out of 5
Athens International Airport, Spata-Artemida, Attiki
The price is ¥54,713 per night from Sep 3 to Sep 4
¥54,713
¥64,710 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Spata-Artemida. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
Sofitel Athens Airport
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Athens Studios

Athens Studios

3A Veikou St, Makrigyianni, Athens, Attiki
Stay at this aparthotel in Athens. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Athens Studios
The Omnia Collection Pagrati

The Omnia Collection Pagrati

30 Chremonidou, Athens, Attica, Athens
Stay at this apartment in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and satellite TV channels. Popular attractions Syntagma Square and Parthenon are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (118 reviews)
Pleasant stay in the heart of Greece
"If you look for a place where you have everything like a house in a hotel quality. Much recommended."

Reviewed on Aug 19, 2025

The Omnia Collection Pagrati
Athens Manor Houses Suites Apartments

Athens Manor Houses Suites Apartments

Athinaidos 2 & Evaggelistrias, Athens
Stay at this aparthotel in Athens. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
Athens Manor Houses Suites Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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