Looking to spend a day trip in Athens or end up spending several days because you loved it so much? No matter what your stay is, there are many things to see and do in Athens that make the city unique.
Here is a list of 12 things you simply must do if you’re visiting Athens.
1. The Acropolis
The Acropolis is the most important ancient Greek site in Athens. It’s a complex of buildings that were erected in various periods of time, from the 6th century BC to the 4th century AD. The main buildings on top of the hill are the Parthenon and its sculptures, Propylaea and Erechtheion. There are also many other buildings such as temples, altars, and fountains.
If you visit Athens during your trip to Greece, don’t miss this place! The Acropolis is one of the best things to do in Athens and it’s definitely worth visiting!
2. The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is one of the best things to do in Athens. The museum is an impressive structure with a modern facade that blends in nicely with the ancient ruins of the Acropolis.
The museum was constructed between 1985 and 1999 on top of the hill where the Parthenon once stood. It took over 20 years to complete this project, but it was well worth it.
The museum houses some of the most important treasures from ancient Greece, including sculptures and architectural features that were found on the site when archaeologists began digging there in 1829.
Following the advice of tour operator DirectGrece, which specializes in excursions for French-speaking travelers: The Acropolis Museum is the most popular excursion during the summer season.
3. Ancient Agora & Temple of Hephaestus
The Ancient Agora is one of the most visited places in Athens, not just because it’s one of the oldest sites in Greece but also because it gives visitors a glimpse into life during ancient times. The Agora was once a bustling marketplace where people would buy and sell goods and services. It was also where philosophers like Aristotle lived and taught their students. Today, visitors can walk through the ruins of this marketplace and see what these philosophers had to say about life then and now.
4. Roman Agora
As you may have guessed, the Roman Agora was built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. It is a great place to get an idea of what ancient Greece was like, and it is definitely worth a visit.
The best part about Athens is that there are so many things to do and see here, that you will not be able to fit everything into one trip. This makes it a great place for tourists who want to spend some time here before heading back home!
If you want to see Roman ruins but don’t want to walk around the Acropolis, then this is the place for you. This area has many shops, restaurants, museums, and other attractions all within walking distance from each other. The best thing about this area is that there is always something going on here so even if you go multiple times during your stay in Athens, there will always be something new happening!
5. Hadrian’s Library
The Library of Hadrian (also known as the Library of Celsus) is a library built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in about 135 AD. It was built in honor of his patron and friend, the Greek orator and philosopher Publius Aelius Aristides (better known as Celsus), who had died five years before the library was completed. The library was designed by the Roman architect Apollodorus of Damascus and is located on Panepistimiou Street in Athens, Greece.
The building itself was once a temple dedicated to Apollo (hence its former name). This temple was built by Eumenes II at the end of the 3rd century BC and then rebuilt into a library during the 1st century BC.
The main entrance to this beautiful building is located on Panepistimiou Street. It has been renovated many times over the centuries; however, the original structure still stands today – it’s one of Greece’s most famous landmarks!
6. Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the greatest monuments of ancient Greece. It was built in the 5th century BC, and it was dedicated to Zeus, king of the gods, by the Athenians.
It is one of the most important monuments in Athens today, and it is considered a symbol of both Greek history and culture.
The temple was built on a hill called Acropolis, which was an important religious center for the ancient Greeks. This is where they used to hold contests and festivals in honor of their gods. The Temple of Olympian Zeus stands at the top of this hill.
The temple’s ruins are still visible today, even though they are not well preserved because they were badly damaged by earthquakes over time. It consists mainly of columns that once supported its roof. Also, there are some remains from other buildings that were attached to it such as a smaller temple called Hecatompedon which means “hundred-footed” because it had 100 columns instead of 33 like the Olympian Zeus did (each column has 6 sides).
7. Kerameikos
The ancient cemetery of Kerameikos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Athens. It is also one of the city’s most beautiful and atmospheric areas.
The site was originally used as a cemetery from the 7th century BC until the Roman period. The name comes from the Greek word kerameios, which means “potter”.
There are some impressive tombs and grave markers there, including an imposing tomb built at the end of the 4th century BC by Kleophon, father-in-law of Pericles. This tomb has been fully reconstructed and is now open to visitors.
8. National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the finest museums in Europe. It houses an impressive collection of antiquities from all over Greece, as well as some items from Cyprus and Egypt.
The museum is housed in two buildings: the Old Building (1859) and the New Building (1983). The Old Building features exhibits from prehistoric times to the Roman period, while the New Building houses exhibits from the Hellenistic period to late antiquity.
9. Benaki Museum
The Benaki Museum is one of the most important museums in Athens. It is located in the center of the city and is housed in a neoclassical building built by the architect Stamatis Kleanthis in 1931. The museum was founded in 1926 by art collector George Adam-Benakis, who donated his collection to the Greek State.
The museum’s collection includes works from ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, as well as works from later periods such as Baroque and Neoclassicism.
The Benaki Museum also has a large collection of jewelry from around the world.
10. Plaka
Plaka is one of the most popular areas in Athens because it has so much history behind it. It’s also one of the most charming places in the world, especially at night when all the lights come on! You can find plenty of bars and restaurants here, but I would recommend trying out O Giorgios for some amazing Greek food! You will not be disappointed!
11. Church of Panagia Kapnikarea
The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea is an extremely popular stop for tourists visiting Athens, and it’s easy to see why. The church is situated on top of a hill in the center of the city, and visitors can walk up to it from the base of the hill. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to enjoy some amazing views of the city below you.
The church itself is quite beautiful, with an ornate white exterior and a bright blue roof. The interior is even more impressive, with beautiful frescos and mosaics that depict religious scenes from both Greek mythology and Christian tradition.
It’s also worth noting that this church is one of only two churches in all of Greece dedicated exclusively to Mary Magdalene – which makes it an interesting place for anyone interested in learning more about her role in early Christianity.
12. Monastiraki Square
Monastiraki Square is one of the most popular places to visit in Athens. It’s a great place to start your day, as well as end it. The square is located near Syntagma Square and Plaka, but that doesn’t mean it’s too far away from the heart of Athens.
Monastiraki Square is known for its traditional Greek cafes and restaurants, which serve delicious food and drinks at very affordable prices. The square also features an open market where you can shop for souvenirs and other items like clothing, accessories, jewelry, and more. The best part about shopping here is that you can bargain with the vendors if you want to buy something at their stall!
At night time, Monastiraki Square transforms into a lively area where people gather to enjoy their favorite drinks while socializing with friends or strangers.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Athens?
Athens is a city that’s full of history, culture and tavernas. It’s a city that could easily swallow you up for weeks on end, but if you’re only going to be there for a week or two then you need to know how many days should you spend in Athens.
And the answer is…it depends.
That’s right, it depends on what you want to see and do. There’s so much to pack into one trip that it can be hard to decide which sights are worth visiting and which ones can be left out. If you want the best possible experience then here are some tips on how many days should you spend in Athens:
Athens is divided into five different areas: Pireaus (the port area), Monastiraki (the old market), Plaka (the touristy area), Omonia Square, and Syntagma Square. Each of these areas has its own character, but most tourists will want to stay within walking distance of Plaka and Omonia Square as they contain many of the main attractions like the Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum.
If your time is limited then focus on these two areas as well as Kolonaki which has some
Where to Eat in Athens
Athens is a great place to eat, and all of the food is very affordable. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite restaurants in Athens.
Acharavi:
This is a great place to get traditional Greek food. It’s also one of the best places to sit outside and enjoy the view as you eat your meal.
Omonia Square:
This is one of the most popular places in Athens for both tourists and locals alike, and there are tons of great restaurants all around here. You can find everything from fast food like McDonald’s to more upscale places like Taverna Psaropoula.
Monastiraki Square:
This square is another one that’s popular among tourists, but it has some great restaurants too! If you’re looking for something quick but tasty, try Souvlaki Varka or Gyros Alexandros. If you want something a little fancier, check out Taverna Dionysos or The Athenian Grillhouse & Bar (which serves more traditional Greek cuisine).
Where to Stay in Athens
Athens is a sprawling city, with endless options for accommodation. The most convenient area to stay in is Plaka, especially if you’re planning on exploring the Acropolis and other sites by foot.
Handy tips:
If you’re looking for luxury, book a room at the Attalos Hotel Athens or the Hera Hotel Athens
For budget accommodation, try the Acropolis House Hostel or Pasta Loco Hostel
If you want to be close to Plaka but still have easy access to other parts of town, consider staying at the Hotel California
To make sure that you’re choosing a good place to stay in Athens, read some reviews of hotels and hostels online. You can also ask around among your friends or colleagues who have visited Greece before so that they can give you some tips on where to stay in Athens.
Whether you have a few days, or a few months to spend in Athens you can never really finish exploring this ancient city. From museums to beaches from ancient history to modern art, Athens has something for everyone. So if you haven’t seen Athens yet, don’t miss the chance now!