Things To Do In Athens Today

Athens is the capital city of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich and storied history. It was once the center of the ancient world and home to some of the most influential and celebrated philosophers, lawmakers, and scientists in human history. Today, Athens remains a vibrant and bustling city, with millions of people living there, and numerous attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or an experienced traveler, Athens has something for everyone. From ancient ruins to modern museums, there is a wealth of things to do in Athens today.

History

Athens has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, and it has been continuously inhabited for more than 5,000 years. It was originally a small Mycenaean city-state, which eventually became an important center of trade and culture in the ancient world. It was home to several famous philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, who all taught at the famous Academy of Athens. During the Roman period, Athens was a major center of power and influence, and it was also the birthplace of democracy. After the fall of Rome, the city went into decline until it was revived in the 19th century when it was made the capital of Greece.

Famous Sights

Athens is home to some of the most famous sights and monuments in the world. The Acropolis is perhaps the most iconic of these, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens. The Acropolis is a hilltop citadel that was built in the 5th century BC and it is home to some of the most iconic ruins in Europe. The Parthenon is one of these ruins, which was once a temple dedicated to Athena and is now recognized as a symbol of Ancient Greek culture and architecture. Other famous sights include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and the Theater of Dionysus.

Modern Attractions

Modern Athens is also home to several attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. The National Archaeological Museum is one of these, which is home to some of the best-preserved artifacts from Ancient Greece. The Benaki Museum is another popular attraction, with a vast collection of Greek art, jewelry, and furniture. The National Garden is also a popular spot for visitors to relax and take in the beauty of the city.

Shopping & Gastronomy

Athens is also home to a wealth of shopping and gastronomy options for visitors. The city has several malls and department stores, as well as numerous boutiques and specialty shops throughout the city. There are also plenty of unique restaurants that serve up traditional Greek dishes as well as more modern fare. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs to choose from.

Unique Experiences

Athens offers some unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. One of these is its street art scene, which is home to some incredibly talented local artists who have used their work to transform the look of the city. There are also several parks throughout Athens that offer stunning views of the city from a different perspective. Some of these include Lycabettus Hill, Pedion Areos Park, and Filopappou Hill.

Exploring The City

Exploring Athens is an unforgettable experience for visitors, as there are so many things to see and do throughout the city. Strolling through the winding streets of Plaka is an especially popular activity for tourists, as it’s filled with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. Taking a walking tour through the ancient ruins is another great way to get a sense of what life was like in Ancient Greece.

Tour: Acropolis & Parthenon

One of the most popular tours in Athens is the Acropolis & Parthenon Tour. This tour takes visitors on an in-depth exploration of one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks: the Acropolis citadel. Guests will get to explore this ancient site with an experienced guide who will provide insight into its history and significance. Along the way, visitors will get to see such famous attractions as the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and more. This tour also includes admission tickets for all attractions included in the tour. Guests can book this tour here.

Tour: 3-Hour Ancient Athens Walking Tour

The 3-Hour Ancient Athens Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Ancient Athens in depth. The tour takes guests on a journey through time as they visit some of the most famous sites in Athens. Highlights include stops at The Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Zeus, and more. Along the way, an experienced guide will provide insight into each site’s history and significance. This tour also includes admission tickets for all attractions included in the tour. Guests can book this tour here.

Tour: 3-Hour Food & Culture Experience

The 3-Hour Food & Culture Experience offers visitors a chance to experience Athens like a local. Guests will get to explore some off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods with an experienced guide who will provide insight into Greek culture through its food and drink. Along the way, guests will get to sample some traditional Greek dishes as well as some more modern fare from local restaurants. This tour also includes admission tickets for all attractions included in the tour. Guests can book this tour here.

Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins or modern attractions, there’s something for everyone in Athens today. From shopping at local boutiques to exploring ancient monuments or sampling local cuisine, Athens has something for everyone who visits it today. And with several tours available that offer deeper insight into the city’s history and culture, it’s never been easier to explore this beautiful city like a local.