Things to do in Athens

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Acropolis showing heritage elements, a ruin and heritage architecture
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
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Athens must see attractions

1. Acropolis

The Acropolis, the “sacred rock” of Athens, is recognizable from the air, various viewpoints in the city, or from the history books of your childhood. It’s a worldwide symbol of the Golden Age of ancient Greek civilization. Here, you’ll find major portions of Doric temples and other architectural masterpieces, as well as the remnants of sculptures and carvings from the 5th century B.C.
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Acropolis which includes landscape views, forest scenes and heritage elements

2. Syntagma Square

There’s always plenty going on at Syntagma (Constitution) Square, in the center of Athens. Walk up the marble steps and take a seat at one of the cafes to people watch, or go see the changing of the guard in front of the Greek Parliament. Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and experience the pride that the locals have in their heritage.
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Syntagma Square which includes a city, street scenes and an administrative buidling

3. Parthenon

The Parthenon, the most famous structure at the Acropolis, was completed in 438 B.C. and is a striking example of ancient Greek architecture. Over the centuries, this symbol of strength has survived the rise and fall of civilizations, wars and modern development and today is a source of great pride for the country. Tourists from around the world come to photograph, paint and just gaze in wonder at the Doric columns, statues and detailed reliefs carved into the white marble.
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4. Acropolis Museum

The new Acropolis Museum stands in the historic area of Makrygianni just to the south-east of the Parthenon. Construction was finally completed in 2007 - more than 30 years after it was originally conceived. Architects from around the world competed to design this modern structure with over 150,000 square feet (14,000 square meters) of exhibit space. That’s ten times more space than was in the old museum on the hill of the Acropolis.
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New Acropolis Museum which includes a city as well as a large group of people

5. Monastiraki Flea Market

The Monastiraki Flea Market, at the center of what was once ancient Athens, is an experience not to be missed. Take your time wandering through Avissynias Square, stopping at antique shops as you walk through a maze of street vendors selling both junk and gems. Pick through old books, trendy second-hand clothes, souvenir trinkets, leather crafts, jewelry and more. The value is most often in the eye of the beholder, and street vendors are quite willing to bargain. Across the road is Psiri, which by day has dozens of craft shops and galleries and by night is a maze of cafés, bars, restaurants and night spots.
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Greece showing street scenes and a city

What to do in Athens

Discover the most popular places to visit in Athens

Yachts in Mikrolimano marina in Piraeus, Athens.

Port of Piraeus

Explore the waterfront in Athens with a trip to Port of Piraeus. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Port of Piraeus
Acropolis which includes landscape views, forest scenes and heritage elements

Acropolis

The ancient Greek city rises like a phoenix from the city center of modern Athens, lighting up at night in splendid glory.

Acropolis
Syntagma Square which includes a city, street scenes and an administrative buidling

Syntagma Square

This square was built in ancient times and remains at the center of political and social activity in modern Athens.

Syntagma Square
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Parthenon

Step back in time and explore the ancient myths etched into the walls of the largest Doric temple in Greece, originally dedicated to the warrior goddess Athena.

Parthenon
A yatch and a tanker in front of Kea Island

Lavrio Port

Explore the waterfront in Athens with a trip to Lavrio Port. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Lavrio Port
New Acropolis Museum showing a city

Acropolis Museum

This modern museum is labor of love that has taken decades to complete and accommodates millions of visitors each year.

Acropolis Museum
Aerial drone photo of Syntagma square featuring Greek Parliament, Athens centre, Attica, Greece

Ermou Street

During your visit to Athens, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Ermou Street. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this walkable area.

Ermou Street
Aerial view of the popular Glyfada coast, south Athens suburb, Greece, with beaches, marinas and turquoise sea

Glyfada's Second Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Glyfada's Second Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Glyfada. Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside and enjoy its lively bars.

Glyfada's Second Beach
Monastiraki Flea Market featuring food, markets and street scenes

Monastiraki Flea Market

Find souvenirs, collectables, and one-of-a-kind trinkets at this eclectic group of antique shops, tavernas and outdoor vendors.

Monastiraki Flea Market

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods 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 Acropolis and Syntagma Square 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
The Presidential Guard

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
View across the street from first dinner in Athina. But really: What are we? Or better yet: Who are we? We can ask ourselves this question so many times, every which way, and receive so many different answers. So: What are you? Who are you? Speak. #culture Athens, Greece, July 2018.

Koukaki

4/5(20 area reviews)

Southeast of Athens, Koukaki boasts the charming Drakou and G. Olympiou pedestrian zones filled with cafes and restaurants. Easily accessible via Akropoli and Syngrou-Fix metro stations, tram lines, and numerous bus routes.

Koukaki
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

Popular day trips from Athens

Luftaufnahme der Athens Riviera mit türkisem Meer und feinen Sandstränden im Bezirk Vouliagmeni, Griechenland

Vouliagmeni

Aerial drone photo of main park of Kifisia district or Alsos Kifisias, North Athens, Attica, Greece

Kifisia

#greece #athens #europe

Palaio Faliro

Aerial view of the illuminated Zea Marina in Piraeus, Athens, Greece, with lined up sailing boats and yachts during evening

Piraeus

Panorama of Telesterion, ancient Eleusis, Attica, Greece

Elefsina

#LifeAtExpedia

Marousi

National Library of Greece which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and street scenes

Kallithea

Abandoned industrial works viewed from cruise ship leaving Piraeus.

Keratsini-Drapetsona

Frequently asked questions

Is Athens worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Athens is visit Voula Beach. Check this leading sight off your list, then discover more of this area's views and culture.
How do I spend a day in Athens?
Voula Beach and Votsalakia Beach are two good places to start your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Athens while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Athens?
The top tourist attraction in Athens is Voula Beach, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Athens?
Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city attractions, such as Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens Concert Hall and Votsalakia Beach. The average stay in Athens is three days. If you have the time to extend your escape, Spata-Artemida isn't far away.
Is Athens a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city center, Athens is a great place to tour on foot. Enjoy wandering between Odeon of Herodes Atticus and Athens Concert Hall. Then take a stroll around Monastiraki, located 0.16 kilometers from the center, and Makrigianni, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Athens with kids?
Planning what to do in Athens with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Athens for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Athens, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Faliro Sports Pavilion Arena or Ancient Agora of Athens.
Are there free things to do in Athens?
In Athens, Votsalakia Beach is a top spot for anyone wanting to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to learn about the best free things to do in Athens.

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