When I first moved to Athens, I never imagined this city would captivate me so deeply. The Greek capital is truly fascinating, it’s a city that’s reinvented itself over millennia, and today it’s filled with incredible history, warm-hearted people, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s simply charming!

Wondering what are the best things to do in Athens, Greece? Whether you’re exploring historic monuments, savoring mouthwatering Greek cuisine at a sunny tavern, or indulging in some shopping therapy in cute local boutiques, Athens has plenty of surprises in store.

Having lived here for several years now, I’m excited to share my insider tips, best recommendations, and absolute must-sees to help you make the most of your visit. If you’re planning to visit Athens in 3 days, keep on reading!

PS: If you’re looking for a Google Map guide of Athens filled with great addresses, simply click here!

The 10 best things to do in Athens, Greece

1. Step back into Ancient Greece at the Acropolis and Athens’ ancient sites

Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, founded in the 8th century BC and widely considered the birthplace of Western civilization. Strolling through the city center, ancient ruins and fascinating monuments pop up around every corner, each whispering myths and legends.

The Acropolis is definitely one of Athens’ must-see attractions. Climb up to explore the Parthenon, walk around the Ancient Agora, see the Roman Agora ruins, marvel at the impressive Temple of Olympian Zeus, and imagine the first Olympic games at the Panathenaic Stadium. I’d highly recommend touring these sites with a guide to hear captivating stories from Greek mythology!

If you’re planning to visit Athens in 3 days, get an early start to beat the crowds, especially at the Acropolis. For more detailed tips, check out my dedicated guide to Athens’ historical monuments.

2. Wander the picturesque streets of Plaka

Just below the Acropolis lies one of my favorite neighborhoods: the charming and colorful Plaka district. With its lively tavernas and cozy cafés, Plaka is definitely one of Athens’ must-visit neighborhoods. My tip: climb up to one of the local rooftops to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the city!

Don’t miss in Plaka:

• The Roman Agora and its iconic Tower of the Winds
• The legendary Melina Mercouri Café
• Anafiotika’s whitewashed streets, reminiscent of the Cyclades islands

Exploring Plaka and Anafiotika is definitely among the most delightful activities in Athens!

3. Discover Athens’ incredible museums

Athens is a paradise for history and art lovers, offering amazing museums filled with archaeological treasures and fascinating collections that delve deep into Greek culture.

Don’t miss these highlights:

• The Acropolis Museum: Ultra-modern and located right at the foot of the Acropolis, displaying original sculptures from ancient temples, including the beautiful Caryatids. The top floor replicates the Parthenon’s dimensions, showcasing its famous friezes up-close.
• The National Archaeological Museum: A dream for lovers of ancient Greece, packed with statues, frescoes, and artifacts thousands of years old.
• Benaki Museum: Less crowded and fascinating, it covers Greek history from antiquity to modern times.
• Museum of Cycladic Art: Dedicated to the ancient civilizations of the Aegean Sea, known especially for its striking minimalist marble sculptures.

Quick tip: Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month from November to March, one of Athens’ best budget tips!

4. Watch the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament

An iconic sight during your Athens trip! Right outside the Greek Parliament building on Syntagma Square, you’ll see the Evzones, the elite presidential guards performing a precise, synchronized ceremony wearing traditional uniforms. With pleated kilts, pom-pom shoes, and impressive discipline, it’s quite a spectacle!

Try to come on Sunday at 11 AM for the grand weekly ceremony when the whole guard gathers.

5. Shop at Monastiraki’s flea market

Monastiraki is one of Athens’ liveliest shopping spots! Between vintage markets, artisan shops, and souvenir stores, you’ll find a bit of everything.

Places to explore:

• Monastiraki Flea Market: A fun and bustling place to find Greek ceramics, silver jewelry, and antiques.
• Ermou Street: A busy shopping street lined with international and Greek brands.
• Pandrossou Street: Ideal for authentic souvenirs like handmade leather sandals, olive oil products, or a stylish beach towel.

6. Taste the best Greek food in Athens

Athens is delicious! Every street corner tempts you with the mouthwatering aromas from local tavernas and small eateries (souvlatzidika), serving tasty souvlakia and gyros.

My favorite Greek dishes you should try:

• Gyros: A pita sandwich filled with grilled meat, tomatoes, onions, fries, and tzatziki. Delicious!
• Mezze: Small dishes to share, like fava dip, saganaki cheese, or stuffed vine leaves (dolmadakia).
• Honey Desserts: Try loukoumades (honey-soaked donuts) or galaktoboureko (custard-filled filo pastry).

Check out my full list of favorite Greek specialties here.

Where to eat? Opt for local tavernas and avoid touristy spots. My personal favorites are marked on my Athens Google Map. And don’t be shy to ask around: the locals always give the best advice!

7. Experience Athens’ buzzing nightlife

Athens by night has a unique energy. From trendy rooftop bars to clubs playing electronic music and lively tavernas dancing to traditional rebetiko, there’s something for everyone.

Best nightlife areas:

• Psiri: Ideal for underground bars and cozy tavernas.
• Gazi: The place for clubbing and music venues.
• Kolonaki: For chic cocktails and jazz vibes.

Read more in my article about 10 best rooftops in Athens.

8. Enjoy the sea breeze along the Athens Riviera

Yes, Athens has beaches! The Athens Riviera runs from Glyfada down to Cape Sounion, ideal for a relaxing day-trip from the city center, reachable in about 40-50 minutes by public transport.

Highlights include:

• Relaxing on Vouliagmeni’s beaches (check out my guide to Athens’s best beaches)
• Strolling along Flisvos Marina
• Swimming at Vouliagmeni Lake
• Enjoying drinks at sunset from Lasithi Bar-Restaurant

9. Visit Cape Sounion

Just an hour from Athens, Cape Sounion hosts the stunning Temple of Poseidon, perched dramatically over the sea. The sunsets here are breathtaking. It’s also where I first tasted a traditional Greek yogurt with honey as a teenager, one of my first core travel memories!

10. Hop on a day trip to a nearby island

Need an escape from the city? The beautiful islands near Athens (in the Saronic Gulf) are perfect day-trip destinations to immerse yourself further into the lovely Greek culture and landscapes:

• Hydra: Charming, car-free, ideal for a lovely walk.
• Aegina: Famous for its pistachios and peaceful beaches.
• Poros: Quiet and picturesque, great for relaxation.
• Spetses: A green, bike-friendly island with crystal-clear waters.

Ferries from Piraeus get you there in less than 2 hours.

Best things to do in Athens, Greece: Google Map with my favourite addresses

To easily access the addresses mentioned above, including my favourite restaurants, beaches, and other off-the-beaten-path activities to do in Athens, I invite you to download my Google Maps guide! You can add it to your own Google Maps account to navigate and get around easily while you’re there.

So, wondering what are the best things to do in Athens, Greece? Now you know! These are my absolute favorite must-do activities in Athens. Athens is magical: rich history, amazing food, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant nightlife. There’s always a good reason to come back—I always find one! Enjoy your time in Athens 😊

If you liked this article or have any questions, feel free to reach out or follow me on Instagram for more tips about Greece!

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