Are you looking for top things to do in Athens?

Ronaldo and I have compiled a fantastic list including a great place to stay and essential information.

The moment John and I landed in Athens, we were buzzing with excitement. After countless documentaries and hours reading up on ancient sites, actually stepping foot in the city felt like diving into the pages of a history book. For a self-confessed history buff like me, the idea of walking where philosophers once debated and leaders once stood? Absolutely thrilling. John might not be quite as obsessed with ancient history, but he was just as ready to jump right in.

From the first glimpse, Athens had an energy all its own—a fusion of ancient mystery and vibrant city life. We couldn’t wait to dive into the iconic landmarks, roam the bustling neighbourhoods, and, of course, eat our way through the Greek food scene. This trip wasn’t just about checking off the must-see sights; it was about connecting with a city that’s left its mark on so much of the world we know today.

Searching for the perfect place to stay in Athens? Skylark Aluma Hotel, Athens was everything we could have hoped for. It was formerly known as Browns Lighthouse hotel but was changing brands whilst we were visiting. Nestled on Kotopouli Street, this stylish 4-star gem welcomed us with its warm, luxe vibe—starting right in the lobby, with its dark, sophisticated decor setting the tone. Each room was practically made for Instagram—boutique-style, cosy, and brimming with thoughtful touches that made our stay feel extra special.

We’d booked a bed and breakfast, and I can’t sing enough praises about the breakfast here. It had everything you could wish for, plus a little extra sparkle: prosecco every morning, adding a cheerful touch to kickstart the day. And with complimentary prosecco at check-in, we were truly off to a high-spirited start!

The location couldn’t have been more ideal. Situated right above a metro station, getting around Athens and even to the airport was a breeze. Athens’ best bars, restaurants, and attractions were practically at our doorstep, making it perfect for exploring by day and unwinding by night. John and I couldn’t have asked for a better base to start our Athenian adventure.

Check prices and book

City Circus Athens – Hostel for solo travelers, approx. £21/night for a room in a multi bed dorm.

Plaka Hotel – Mid-range option and  great for all, solo, couples and familes, approx. £80/night. Great reviews and central location.

Novotel Athens – Another great hotel with excellent reviews –  £80/night.

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens – Luxury stay, approx. £507/night.

A visit to Athens wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the iconic Acropolis. We decided to book a guided walking tour to get the most out of this historic site. Knowing how intense the Greek sun can be, we set off early in the day to avoid the peak heat. Even then, it was still pretty warm, so here’s a top tip: bring a hat, lots of water, and plenty of sunscreen! And be prepared for crowds—it’s one of those places that just gets busier as the day progresses.

Our guide was exceptional, bringing the history of each site to life with enthusiasm that kept us fully engaged. The tour was well-organised, with small groups of no more than 20 people, making the experience feel more personal.

Tour Highlights:

• Knowledgeable, licensed guide who kept us engaged with captivating historical insights
• Whisper guide system for easy listening, especially useful in larger groups
• Free WiFi at the meeting point near the Acropolis
• Skip-the-line entry to major attractions, including:
• The Acropolis and Parthenon
• Theatre of Dionysus
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Temple of Athena Nike
• The Propylaea

The best part? Skipping those long queues! Having a guide really enhanced the experience, leading us through each site with fascinating details. Standing on the Acropolis hill, gazing at the Parthenon and the city of Athens stretched out below, was an unforgettable moment.

Price: Starting from around €45 per person

Pros:

• Skip-the-line access saves time, especially during peak hours.
• Small group size (up to 20 people) allows for a more personal experience.
• Knowledgeable guides bring historical context, making the visit more enriching.
• Convenient start point with free WiFi makes it easy to stay connected and organised.

Cons:

• Crowded sites – despite the skip-the-line access, the Acropolis is popular, and crowds are inevitable.
• Intense heat during midday, so starting early is essential.
• Extra cost for the ticket to enter the Acropolis complex (usually not included in the tour price).

Check out prices and further details of the Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour here

This tour is perfect for anyone interested in a well-rounded and insightful experience of Athens’ most famous landmarks. With knowledgeable guides and skip-the-line access, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to the Acropolis.

No trip to Athens is complete without a stroll through Plaka, the city’s oldest neighbourhood and affectionately known as the ‘Neighbourhood of the Gods.’ Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka is a real gem with its maze of cobbled streets, vibrant neoclassical houses, and bougainvillaea cascading over terraces and balconies. It’s a place where visitors can feel like they’ve stepped back in time.

Plaka beautifully blends ancient history with modern life, buzzing with energy from lively cafés, artisan shops, and street musicians around every corner. Exploring hidden alleyways reveals cosy tavernas offering ice-cold pints at surprisingly affordable prices, along with charming shops filled with handmade crafts and jewellery—a tribute to Greek heritage in every piece.

For an evening experience, a guided night tour of Plaka showcases this historic neighbourhood under the glow of city lights, bringing its sights to life in a unique way. Key highlights include:

Wandering Plaka’s Landmarks

Visitors can stroll through Plaka’s picturesque streets, passing landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Athens’ oldest house—a beautifully restored slice of history, perfect for capturing photos.

Stoa of Attalos and Ancient Agora

The Stoa of Attalos is beautifully lit at night, making for fantastic photo opportunities. Guides often share insights into its role as a social gathering spot in ancient Athens. The nearby Ancient Agora offers an intriguing look at the place that once helped shape Athenian democracy and community life.

Anafiotika

Within Plaka lies Anafiotika, a hidden Cycladic-style village right in the heart of Athens. With its narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and bougainvillaea-draped walls, Anafiotika feels like a tranquil island escape, transporting visitors to another world.

Viewing the Acropolis at Night

A lookout point offers a stunning view of the Acropolis and Parthenon illuminated against the night sky—a breathtaking sight and one of the most iconic photos of any Athens trip.

Ronaldo and I  can’t emphasise enough how beautiful Athens is by night. And we recommend you make time to get out and see it in all its glory. If you are interested in a great tour, to capture all the majestic splendor of this city, then look no further. Check it out here.

Temple of Hephaestus

One of Greece’s best-preserved temples, the Temple of Hephaestus casts a warm glow over the area and is beautifully highlighted at night, showcasing ancient Greek architecture in its full glory.

Traditional Greek Taverna 

Ending the evening at a traditional taverna. They offer a taste of authentic Greek dishes and the lively atmosphere Athens is known for. The experience evokes the ancient Greek “Symposium”—good food, good drink, and great company.

We recommend one of the oldest Taverns – Geros Toy Maria

Plaka is delightful by day but utterly enchanting by night. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Athens’ vibrant spirit beyond its ancient ruins and delve into the heart of Greek culture.

Here, Ronaldo and I dive into the beaches in Athens. And there are plenty of great spots for couples and families alike. By clicking on the beaches highlighted in orange, you will be taken to the google map locations to help plan your trip.

Stretching over 35 miles, the Athens Riviera runs from Paleo Faliro all the way down to the majestic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. For locals, this coastline—affectionately called Nou-Pou (short for notia proastia, or “southern suburbs”)—is a vibrant mix of lively boardwalks, posh marinas, and urban beaches that gradually transform into sleepy coastal towns and secluded spots like Limanakia, where sun-kissed teens leap from rocky cliffs into the Aegean.

For a touch of luxury, head to Astir Beach in Vouliagmeni, where sunbeds line the sand and high-rollers relax among boutiques and the remnants of an ancient temple. If surfing’s your thing, the beaches at Kavouri and Vouliagmeni bring decent waves when the south winds pick up. And for beginners, there’s Kyma surf school nearby to get you on your first wave.

If you’re after a more laid-back vibe, try Legrena or KAPE near Sounion—ideal for beachgoers who don’t mind forgoing sunbeds (just make sure to bring your own wheels!). Families tend to set up at Zen Beach, while a trendy, younger crowd gravitates towards Krabo. With Athens’ balmy climate, swimming is a year-round option for many.

And even in winter, Lake Vouliagmeni offers something special. Fed by natural thermal springs, the lake stays at a soothing 22–29°C—perfect for a warm, relaxing dip no matter the season.

For our first couple of days, we decided to get our bearings with the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, and it turned out to be a brilliant way to soak in Athens at our own pace. Now, let me be honest—these bus tours are often a gamble, with some cities forcing you through endless traffic while crackling audio guides drone on. But Athens? Different story. For just €20, we secured a 48-hour pass, and it was worth every penny.

The tour took us to some of Athens’ top landmarks, like Syntagma Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Passing by the Acropolis from the top deck was an absolute highlight; seeing its towering presence against the cityscape made it feel even more majestic. The bus became our own moving viewpoint, making it easy to dip in and out of different spots.

Our ticket covered both main routes—the Orange Line around central Athens and the Blue Line down to the coast—and the buses were frequent and comfy. One route loops through Athens’ main sights, while the coastal route provides a scenic ride down to the marinas and beach areas.

Whether you’re a family, a solo traveller, or just want an easy introduction to Athens, we’d definitely recommend the Hop-On Hop-Off bus. It’s an affordable, stress-free way to explore the city’s highlights while giving you the flexibility to hop off and explore at your own pace.

Book the trip it here.

If you’re a sunset enthusiast, the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a must-visit. Situated about an hour’s drive from central Athens, this ancient marvel perches dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. A guided tour, delving into the temple’s history and mythology en route. Legend has it that Poseidon, god of the sea, had this temple built to protect sailors on their voyages—a narrative that felt even more captivating as we watched the sun dip below the horizon.

The tour includes a stop at the Theatre of Thorikos, the oldest preserved theatre in Greece, and views of the ancient silver mines that once funded the Athenian navy. Upon arrival at the temple, you will have about two hours to explore, capture photos, and immerse in the beauty of this iconic landmark. The atmosphere is magical, with golden light washing over the temple’s marble columns.

Tour Details:

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours
• Price: Around £24.15 per person
• Booking include transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees.

Housing one of the world’s most extensive collections of ancient Greek artefacts, the National Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of history. John and I wandered through exhibits filled with sculptures, golden masks, and even an ancient bronze statue of Poseidon. The museum’s highlight? The Mask of Agamemnon—a stunning, 3,500-year-old gold mask that seems to watch over visitors.

The museum spans several floors, with each section dedicated to different periods of Greek history, from the Neolithic to the Hellenistic eras. For history buffs, this museum is a true gem, offering a profound look at ancient life, from tools to intricate jewellery. We spent hours here, diving into the stories behind each relic. Trust me, if you’re even a little curious about ancient history, this museum is an absolute must.

Tour Details:

• Cost: Entry tickets start at approximately €13.37, with optional audio guides available for a more in-depth experience.
• Duration: Allow about 2-3 hours to fully explore.

Highlights:

• See the renowned Mask of Agamemnon and other Mycenaean artefacts.
• Explore exhibits covering multiple eras of Greek history, from Neolithic times to the Hellenistic period.
• Optional audio guides provide additional insights into the museum’s treasures.

For more information and to book tickets, visit the National Archaeological Museum’s official website.

For history enthusiasts and mythology lovers, a day trip to Delphi is an unforgettable experience. Revered in ancient times as the “navel of the world,” Delphi draws you into Greece’s storied past, where gods, oracles, and civilization itself converged. Have a look here at the location of Delphi from Athens.

Highlights of the Delphi Tour

• Temple of Apollo 🏛️: Wander through the ruins where the famed Oracle once delivered her cryptic prophecies, surrounded by columns that have stood the test of time and whisper stories of antiquity.
• Ancient Theatre 🎭: With panoramic views of the Pleistos Valley, this theatre transports you back to ancient performances. Picture the audiences captivated by Greek dramas and the architecture that amplifies sound even today.
• Delphi Archaeological Museum 🏺: See treasures like the bronze Charioteer of Delphi and intricate statues that reveal the artistry and traditions of ancient civilizations.

Tour Details

• Duration: Approximately 10 hours
• Price: Around £90 per person

Pros

• All-Inclusive: The tour covers transport, a knowledgeable guide, and entry fees, so you can relax and immerse yourself in the experience.
• Comfortable Day Trip: Delphi is a fair drive from Athens, but the comfortable coach and scenic drive make the journey enjoyable.
• Insightful Guide: Having a professional guide adds depth to the experience, sharing myths and facts you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Cons

• Time Constraints: With a packed 10-hour schedule, some areas may feel a bit rushed, especially if you like to linger over details.
• Physical Requirements: Delphi’s archaeological site involves uphill paths and uneven surfaces, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
• Weather Considerations: The site can get hot in summer, so bring a hat, water, and sunscreen to stay comfortable.

This excursion offers a powerful dive into Greek mythology and spirituality, making it an essential experience for any visitor eager to connect with the ancient world.

Check Prices and Book here.

Situated just steps from the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of ancient Greek art and architecture. Housing over 4,000 artefacts from the Acropolis and its surrounding areas, the museum offers an immersive experience into Athens’ rich historical legacy.

Highlights of the Acropolis Museum:

• The Parthenon Frieze: Marvel at the detailed marble sculptures that once adorned the Parthenon, depicting a procession celebrating the Panathenaic festival.
• The Caryatids: Admire the stunning statues of the maidens that supported the Erechtheion’s porch, showcasing the elegance of ancient Greek sculpture.
• Classical Sculptures: Explore vibrant displays of classical sculptures that once adorned the Acropolis, each telling a unique story of ancient Athens.

The museum’s architecture is a marvel in itself, designed to allow natural light to highlight each exhibit. Glass floors offer views of ongoing excavations beneath, connecting visitors to ancient Athens on multiple levels.

Tour Details:

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
• Price: Around £12 per person
• Booking: We recommend booking through GetYourGuide, which includes skip-the-line access and an optional audio guide for a more in-depth experience.

A visit to the Acropolis Museum offers a profound insight into ancient Greek art and architecture, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Athens’ historical heritage.

For those who, like Ronaldo and me, live by the sea and cherish island life, a full-day cruise to the Saronic Islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra is an ideal escape from the bustle of Athens. This journey across the Aegean Sea combines sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural immersion, all set against Greece’s stunning maritime landscapes.

The location of the THREE islands can be checked on google maps here.

Highlights of the Island Cruise:

• Poros: Begin your adventure on this quaint island, separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait. Wander along its cobbled streets, admire neoclassical architecture, and take in views of lemon groves dotting the landscape.
• Hydra: Experience an island where cars are absent, and donkeys and footpaths are the main modes of transportation. Hydra’s picturesque harbour, stone houses, and artisan shops feel like a step back in time. We could imagine ourselves strolling the seaside promenade, enjoying the dramatic landscapes, and even dipping our toes in the crystal-clear waters.
• Aegina: The largest of the three islands, Aegina is known for its pistachio groves and the ancient Temple of Aphaia. Visitors can explore the temple or relax on the beach, both of which capture the island’s serene, sea-loving vibe.

Back on board, guests are treated to a buffet-style Greek lunch featuring classic dishes like moussaka and Greek salad. With live music and entertainment, the atmosphere on the return cruise to Athens is lively and fun—a perfect end to a memorable day on the islands.

Tour Details:

• Duration: Approximately 11 hours
• Price: Around £110 per person

This cruise offers a delightful blend of sea breezes, island exploration, and cultural experiences, making it a must-do for anyone who, like us, enjoys the unique magic of living near the sea.

Booking: Check out the tour here which includes transportation, a professional guide, and lunch.

This tour is great is highly recommended for families.

For those captivated by ancient legends, a Greek Mythology Tour in Athens offers an immersive journey into the stories that have shaped Greek culture. This guided walking tour takes you through the city’s historic landmarks, each filled with mythological significance and tales of gods, heroes, and the origins of Greek civilization.

Our visit to the Panathenaic Stadium, affectionately known as Kallimarmaro—meaning “beautifully marbled”—was a journey through time. This iconic venue, the only stadium in the world constructed entirely of marble, hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Walking through its grand arches and sitting in the stands, we felt the spirit of the games that once united the world here. The stadium is a marvel in itself, not just for its scale but for the history it holds. Standing on the track, we couldn’t resist imagining the athletes who competed here, with the Acropolis just visible in the distance. The Panathenaic Stadium was a highlight that brought us closer to Greece’s ancient and modern history, a testament to the country’s lasting contributions to the world.

Visiting Details:

• Opening Hours: The stadium is open daily; for the most current hours, it’s advisable to check the official website.
  Panathenaic Stadium
• Admission Fee: As of July 2024, the entrance fee is €10, which includes an audio guide and access to the stadium and its small museum.

Consider yourself an Olympian?

If you fancy yourself as a bit of an Olympian, there’s a really cool 2-hour work-out and race tour, with a certified trainer. Try if you dare.

For those seeking breathtaking views of Athens, a sunset hike up Lycabettus Hill is an unforgettable experience. Standing at 277 meters, it’s the highest point in central Athens, offering a 360-degree panorama of the city. As the sun sets, the Acropolis and the sprawling urban landscape are bathed in a golden glow, creating a picturesque scene.

Hike Details:

• Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for individuals with a reasonable fitness level.
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including breaks and time to enjoy the summit.
• Highlights:
• Guided walk through the National Garden and the Kolonaki neighbourhood.
• Ascent to Lycabettus Hill, with the option to use the cable car for part of the journey.
• Spectacular sunset views over Athens, with landmarks like the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea in sight.

Tour Information:

For those interested in a structured experience, guided tours are available. These typically include knowledgeable guides who share insights into the city’s history and culture during the hike. One such option is the “Lycabettus Hill Walking Tour,” which starts from the ancient Panathenaic Stadium and ends at the summit of Lycabettus Hill. This tour offers a comprehensive experience, combining historical context with the natural beauty of the hill.

Tips for the Hike:

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as some paths can be uneven.
• Timing: Aim to start the hike in the late afternoon to reach the summit in time for sunset.
• Essentials: Carry water, a light jacket (as it can get cooler in the evening), and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Embarking on this hike provides not only a physical challenge but also a rewarding visual feast, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Athens.

Check prices and book here

Athens transforms after sunset, and for Ronaldo and me, experiencing the city at night was an absolute must. The illuminated Acropolis casting its glow over the city, the lively hum of locals and visitors in tucked-away bars, and the warm night air created an unforgettable atmosphere. This 3-hour nightlife walking tour, priced at €45 per person, took us through the best of Athens after dark, introducing us to hidden gems and popular spots we’d have never found on our own.

Our guide led us to some of the city’s top local bars and rooftop lounges, each offering a unique view of the Acropolis against the night sky. As we sipped traditional Greek cocktails like ouzo and rakomelo, we learned about the city’s contemporary nightlife and the local spins on classic drinks. The atmosphere was electric but laid-back, allowing us to connect with fellow travellers and locals while taking in Athens from a whole new perspective.

Whether you’re a night owl or just looking to relax and unwind, this tour is a great way to see a different side of Athens. Each stop came with its own story, from bar owners sharing family recipes to rooftop views of ancient ruins beautifully lit against the dark.

Tour Details:

• Cost: €45 per person.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Highlights:
• Visit a mix of local bars and chic rooftop lounges with unforgettable views of the Acropolis.
• Sample authentic Greek drinks like ouzo and rakomelo, with local insights into each cocktail.
• Soak in Athens’ vibrant nightlife while learning about the city’s social culture from your guide.

Check Prices and Book.​

Frequently Asked Questions About Athens

Here are some common questions travellers have about visiting Athens, along with answers to help you plan your trip:

Q: When is the best time to visit Athens?

A: The best time to visit Athens is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and many outdoor attractions are pleasant to explore without the intense summer heat.

Q: What should I wear when visiting Athens?

A: Athens has a Mediterranean climate, so lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal for most of the year. In summer, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting open-air sites like the Acropolis. For religious sites, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees.

Q: How can I get around Athens?

A: Athens has an efficient public transportation system, including a metro, buses, and trams. The metro is fast, especially for reaching key sites like the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and the Athens Riviera. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available and affordable.

Q: Is Athens safe for tourists?

A: Yes, Athens is generally safe for tourists. Like any major city, it’s wise to stay alert, especially in crowded areas or when using public transport. Pickpocketing can occur in busy spots, so keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.

Q: Are there any free attractions in Athens?

A: Absolutely! Many outdoor sites and museums have free admission days, especially on the first Sunday of each month from November to March. The National Garden, Mount Lycabettus, and the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square are all free to enjoy year-round.

Q: How many days do I need to see Athens?

A: For a well-rounded experience, 3–4 days in Athens is ideal. This allows enough time to see major sites like the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, explore neighborhoods like Plaka, and take day trips to nearby attractions such as Cape Sounion or Delphi.

Q: Do I need to tip in Athens?

A: Tipping in Athens isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common. For guided tours, it’s polite to tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience, and taxi drivers may appreciate rounding up the fare.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Athens?

A: Yes, English is widely spoken in Athens, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and by younger generations. Most signage at major attractions is also in both Greek and English, making it easy for English-speaking travellers.