15 Top Things To Do in Athens: From the Best Attractions to Cultural Highlights

Few European capitals rival the mysterious allure of Athens, a mecca of antiquity where the veil between us and the ancients is paper-thin. An intoxicating mixture of crumbling ruins, vibrant cuisine, and a sprinkling of grit, most visitors never take the time to get under the skin of the Greek capital, quickly sailing off for island climes like Santorini and Mykonos.

Those who do linger are rewarded with the chance to seek out its sun-drenched cafes, storied archaeological sites, and pine-speckled hills. Learn to craft authentic dishes with a local chef from seasonal ingredients, walk in the footsteps of the ancients, or go further afield to reveal the sparkling Athens Riviera. On your voyage to Greece, add these incredible things to do in Athens to your itinerary.

Archaeological sites

1. Acropolis

No trip to Athens would be complete without exploring the Acropolis. The Parthenon is the glittering diamond in the tiara of this “Sacred Rock,” watching over Athens from its perch in the center of the city. An iconic emblem from the ancient world, the word “Acropolis” actually refers to the craggy hill itself, with the collection of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion its crowning glory. Get here early in the morning to avoid the throngs of tourists and scorching midday heat, and consider hiring a local guide who will help bring the crumbling ruins to life.

2. Ancient Agora

Once the central nervous system of Athens, the Ancient Agora was a vibrant nexus and the beating heart of society, known as the “Birthplace of Democracy.” The agora served as a marketplace, site of worship, and meeting ground where intellectuals like Socrates could voice their political opinions and musings.

Walking between the ruined pillars, it isn’t difficult to imagine the cacophony of life that took place beneath these once-covered walkways, known in Greek as stoa. While the Temple of Hephaestus, a remarkably well-preserved Doric temple, is undoubtedly the star of the show, the Church of the Holy Apostles is another favorite, the only structure to have remained intact since antiquity.

3. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Experience the near-perfect acoustics of ancient Greek amphitheaters at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Opened in 161 A.D., this venue once seated 5,000 individuals, who flocked here for musical performances and classic Roman theatre. Climb to the top of the stone tiers for a birds-eye view of the city and the breathtaking three-story backdrop of stone archways. Performances are still held here today. While the ancient Greeks sat beneath a cedar roof, you can experience it with a blanket of stars twinkling above.

4. Temple of Olympian Zeus

A pinnacle of ancient Greek architecture, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once colossal in size, with 104 pillars supporting a gargantuan roof, itself a revolutionary concept built with translucent tiles that allowed light to shine inside. A 15-minute walk from the Parthenon, this temple was an important place of worship in Athens and once held the Statue of Zeus by Phidias, a towering sculpture of the god sitting on a throne. The sheer scale of this monument, its remaining Corinthian pillars, and its peaceful surroundings make it well worth your time.

5. Kerameikos

Leave behind the crowds in favor of a cooler, calmer side of Athens at the hidden gem of Kerameikos. Also known by its alternative moniker, Ceramicus, a nod to the potters who once lived and worked here, this site offers a unique lens on the ancient world.

This is the largest cemetery in Greece, with some tombs dating to 1200 B.C.. Strolling these ruins might seem macabre, but it’s actually an exercise in tranquility. Head inside the Kerameikos Archaeology Museum to see artifacts found during the site's excavation.

Cultural landmarks

6. Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is a testament to Greek sports culture through the centuries — and the only one of its kind built entirely from marble. Situated east of the Acropolis, it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Constructed in 566 B.C., 50,000 spectators once gathered here to watch everything from races to gymnastics and wrestling. Although the stadium hasn’t held sporting events since 2004, this is where the Olympic flame is traditionally handed off to host countries every two years.

7. Changing of the Guard in Syntagma Square

Swap ancient history for a touch of modern pomp and circumstance at the changing of the guard in Syntagma Square. This flashy show of ceremonial tradition takes place daily in front of the Presidential Mansion, every hour on the hour, a tradition that began in 1868. Watch as guards, dressed in traditional uniforms that feature the iconic farion (red fez) and tsarouchia (shoes with black pom poms), march in slow motion, rifles in hand.

8. Philopappos Hill

A craggy outcrop surrounded by verdant shrubs and pine forest, Philopappos Hill offers one of the best sunset spots in Athens. Your 20-minute climb to the top is well rewarded with a birds-eye perspective of the Parthenon and city chaos below. Of course, it wouldn’t be Athens without an ancient monument to set the tone.

Neighborhoods

9. Plaka neighborhood

Athens is a vibrant cornucopia of neighborhoods that range from modern to ancient, with newer sections of the city radiating outward from its historic core, and none is more famous than Plaka. Spend an idyllic afternoon wandering the winding pedestrian lanes, including Anafiotika, a leafy section of the neighborhood that feels reminiscent of the Greek Isles, with white-washed walls and clouds of fuchsia bougainvillea spilling into the street.

10. Koukaki neighborhood

Nestled in the shadow of the Acropolis, the Koukaki neighborhood oozes cool. A decidedly bohemian corner of the city, Drakou Street is the epicenter of the cafe and bar scene. Trendy Athenians linger here, sipping cocktails at chic bars with views of the Parthenon in the distance. A wander through this artistic enclave also reveals boutique shops selling handmade items from Greek artists — the perfect souvenirs.

Museums

11. Acropolis Museum

Athens can feel like a maze of galleries and exhibits with over 70 collections to choose from, but none top the wonders of the Acropolis Museum. Explore artifacts gathered from the excavations of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.

From intricately detailed coins to the ethereal Caryatids who once held up the roof of the Erechtheion, these collections help lace together snapshots of the Acropolis’s one-time grandeur. The top floor is a must-see, offering panoramic views of the Parthenon from below.

12. National Archaeology Museum

Where the Acropolis Museum focuses solely on artifacts unearthed during excavations of the Athenian Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum offers a comprehensive view of Greece as a whole. This is the largest museum in the country, and you’ll want to pencil in several hours to take in its vast collection of artifacts that span from Prehistory to the Roman conquest.

Highlights include the Mask of Agamemnon, a gleaming funerary mask molded entirely of gold, and the Poseidon of Artemision, a towering bronze giant. You’ll walk away utterly enchanted by ancient Greek life.

13. National Gallery

For those with antiquity fatigue, the National Gallery is a breath of fresh air. Avant-garde design and contemporary architecture meet modern Greek masterpieces from the post-Byzantine era to modern day. Visitors will also find paintings by Western European artists, including Picasso and El Greco. Wander the sleek hallways to discover sculptures, drawings, and installations, displayed chronologically.

Culinary Experiences

14. Sample Greek specialties at a taverna in Monastiraki

Greek cuisine is a symphony of aromatic herbs, fresh citrus, and charred meat fresh from the grill — and there’s no better place to sample it all than at an authentic taverna.

While tavernas are plentiful in Athens, no one does them quite like the Monastiraki neighborhood. A casual dining option that serves as a gathering place for the neighborhood, these hole-in-the-wall eateries make up for their lack of formality with rustic atmosphere, cheerful service, and mouthwatering dishes.

With a focus on seasonal ingredients, the menu is often short, but each morsel is worthy of your discerning taste buds. Ask about their wine selection — they often have several homemade varietals.

15. Take an authentic Greek cooking class with a local chef

Recreate the traditional Mediterranean dishes you’ve been savoring with a chef who’s entrenched in Greek culinary influences and cooking methods. With ingredients sourced from local markets, roll up your sleeves, learn how to create classic fare like hearty moussaka, better known as “Greek lasagna,” and creamy homemade tzatziki that will wow your future dinner guests.

Tips for planning a trip to Athens

When is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to October. Evade the searing summers and bleak winters in favor of more agreeable weather, while also keeping the crowds at bay.

How many days do I need in Athens?

Two to three days is the ideal amount of time to devote to Athens. Three days will allow you to explore the city comfortably, soaking up the best sites at the best times. While two days is doable, you’ll need to plan your itinerary wisely. Guests sailing with Silversea can also extend their time before or after a voyage with Athens: City Stays by Silversea, a two-night experience that pairs guided exploration with time to discover the city’s ancient landmarks, gardens, and culinary traditions.

What is the Athens Riviera?

The Athens Riviera is a southern suburb of Athens that stretches along the Saronic Gulf from the major cruise port of Piraeus to Cape Sounion. A gorgeous coastal region that’s often overlooked, visitors will find sun-kissed beaches, shimmering turquoise coves, and glitzy enclaves to explore.

Athens is waiting to be discovered

Follow your sense of exploration, listen to the call of your taste buds, and watch as the ancient world unravels before your eyes. The best things to do in Athens reveal a captivating combination of antiquity and modernity that will leave a lasting impression for years to come.

Learn more about Silversea voyages to Athens and immerse yourself in everything it has to offer.