Athens To Do: A Comprehensive Guide For Tourists

Athens is one of Europe’s oldest cities and is the capital of Greece. Steeped in history, the city is a great destination for tourists looking to explore its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. Athens has been inhabited since the Neolithic times over 6,000 years ago, and was a thriving city in Ancient Greece, famed for its art, architecture, literature, theatre and philosophy. Today, Athens is a modern and bustling city with a population of over 3 million people. Its historical sites are some of the most popular attractions, with the Acropolis of Athens being the most famous. Other popular attractions include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Acropolis Museum and the Benaki Museum.

When visiting Athens, you will find that it is a city full of life and energy. In the day time, it is a great place to explore the historical sites and wander around the various neighbourhoods, taking in the sights and sounds. At night, the city comes to life with bars, clubs and restaurants offering a lively atmosphere and a great night out.

A Brief History Of Athens

Athens has been inhabited since the Neolithic era and is one of the oldest cities in Europe. The city was an important centre of trade and power in Ancient Greece, and it was here that democracy was born. During this period, Athens was the most important city-state in the region, with its citizens renowned for their art, literature, theatre and philosophy.

In 1834, Athens became the capital of the newly independent Greek state and was rapidly transformed into a modern city. During this period, much of its ancient history was destroyed in an effort to modernise. However, some of its most famous ancient sites survived, including the Acropolis of Athens, which still stands today as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Things To Do In Athens

Athens is an amazing destination for tourists looking to explore its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. There is plenty to do and see in this beautiful city, from its ancient sites to its modern attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Athens:

Explore The Acropolis Of Athens

No trip to Athens would be complete without a visit to the Acropolis of Athens. This ancient citadel is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Greece and is home to some of the oldest monuments in the world. The most famous are the Parthenon temple and the Propylaea gateway. This site is a must-see for any visitor to Athens and offers stunning views over the city.

Visit The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the world’s largest museums and houses some of Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures. From pottery to sculptures to jewellery and coins, this museum has it all. It is a great place to learn more about Ancient Greek history and culture.

Stroll Through Plaka

Plaka is a charming neighbourhood in Athens that is filled with narrow streets, small shops and traditional tavernas. It is a great place for visitors to explore and get lost in its cobblestone alleys. Here you can find souvenirs and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine in its many cafes and restaurants.

Discover Ancient Agora Of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens is a large open-air site that was once the centre of social and political life in Ancient Greece. Today it is an archaeological site that is home to many ruins including temples, civic buildings, shrines and more. This site is a great place to learn more about how life was like in Ancient Greece.

Visit Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is a unique museum located in central Athens that explores Greek culture from antiquity to modern times. It houses an impressive collection of artefacts from every period of Greek history and culture, making it a great place to learn more about this fascinating country.

Go Shopping In Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of Athens’ most popular shopping districts. Here you can find everything from souvenirs to clothing items to antiques and more. There are also many great cafes and restaurants located here where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.

Popular Tours In Athens

Athens has many great tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s famous historic sites as well as its vibrant modern attractions. Here are two popular tours available in Athens that are perfect for travellers looking for an unforgettable experience:

Half-Day Acropolis Tour

Explore one of the world’s most iconic landmarks on this half-day tour of the Acropolis of Athens. This tour will take you through the Propylaea gateway and up to the Parthenon temple where you can admire stunning views over the city. You will also visit other important sites such as the Temple of Athena Nike and learn about their fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide. Book this tour here.

Athens Walking Tour

Explore Athens’ most famous attractions on this guided three-hour walking tour. You will visit iconic sites such as Syntagma Square, Hadrian’s Arch, Plaka district and much more. Your knowledgeable guide will provide interesting facts about each destination as you go along. Book this tour here.

Athens is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique cultural experience with plenty to do and see. From exploring its ancient sites to discovering its vibrant modern attractions, this city has something for everyone. Whether you are an art lover or history buff, there is something for everyone in this amazing city. So if you are planning on visiting Athens for the first time, make sure you include these experiences on your list!