Things to Do in Athens

Athens is a city steeped in history, culture, and beauty. It has been described as the cradle of Western civilization and has been the capital of Greece since 1834. With a population of over 3.7 million people, it is one of the largest cities in Europe and the most populated capital in the European Union. Athens is known for its ancient monuments, such as the Parthenon, Acropolis, and Ancient Agora, as well as its vibrant nightlife and vibrant art scene.

The city has been inhabited since Neolithic times and is one of the oldest cities in the world. It has had a long history as a major cultural, political, and economic center in the Mediterranean region. The city has been the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, literature, and drama. Some of the most famous philosophers in history were born in Athens, such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Athens is also home to the first Olympic Games which took place in 776 BC.

Athens has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city is home to many festivals throughout the year such as the Athens Festival in June, the Athens Biennale in September, the Athens International Film Festival in October, and the Open Air Cinema Festival in August. There are also many cultural events such as concerts, plays, exhibitions, and performances in various venues across the city.

Athens is a great place for visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins, museums, or modern attractions, Athens has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Athens:

Top Attractions

Acropolis

The Acropolis is one of the most iconic landmarks of Athens and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It is an ancient citadel built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city and dates back to the 5th century BC. The Acropolis is home to some of the most important monuments of ancient Greece such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaia. Visitors can explore these monuments and learn more about their history. The Acropolis Museum offers great insight into the history and culture of ancient Greece and is also worth visiting.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the social, political, and commercial center of ancient Athens. It was built in the 6th century BC and served as a marketplace for goods and services as well as a meeting place for political debates. Today, visitors can explore this historic site and see the ruins of buildings such as the Temple of Hephaestus and Stoa of Attalos. The Ancient Agora Museum offers great insight into the history of this important site.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum in Greece and one of the most important museums in Europe. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece including sculptures, pottery, coins, jewelry, and more. The museum also includes exhibits on Greek history from prehistoric times to the present day. Visitors can also explore a replica of an ancient Greek ship dating back to 4th century BC.

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens located near many of its top attractions such as the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. It is home to the Greek Parliament building, National Garden, and Evzones Monument. The square is also home to many restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Popular Activities

Take a Food Tour

Athens is known for its delicious cuisine and there are plenty of amazing restaurants to explore. A great way to experience Athens’ food scene is to take a food tour which will take you to some of the best places to eat in the city. You’ll get to sample traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava while learning about the history of Greek cuisine. Book a Athens Food Tour with Viator to make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s culinary highlights!

Visit an Open Air Cinema

Athens’ open air cinemas are one of its most popular attractions during summer months. Visitors can watch classic films while enjoying snacks and drinks at one of Athens’ many outdoor cinemas scattered throughout the city. Book tickets for an Athens Open Air Cinema with Viator for a unique experience!

Go Island Hopping

The Greek Islands are some of the most beautiful places in Europe and are just a short ferry ride away from Athens. Visitors can explore nearby islands such as Aegina, Hydra, Poros, or Spetses while admiring stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Book an Athens Island Hopping Tour with GetYourGuide for an unforgettable experience!

Explore the Streets of Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of Athens’ most iconic neighborhoods located beneath the Acropolis Hill. Visitors can explore its winding streets filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and historic sites such as Hadrian’s Library and Monastiraki Flea Market. Book an Athens Monastiraki Tour with GetYourGuide to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood!

Athens is an amazing city with so much to offer visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins or modern attractions, there’s something for everyone in Athens! Make sure to take advantage of all that this amazing city has to offer by planning your trip carefully and booking activities ahead of time so that you don’t miss out on any of its many attractions!