Athens Itinerary: Essential Things To Do in Athens
Now Go See It is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Enjoy our comprehensive list of must-see Athens tourist spots, top restaurants, family-friendly activities, romantic outings, and unique, lesser-known locations. With over 50 suggestions, you’ll have no problem building a perfect Athens itinerary.
Things To See in Athens, Greece: (Jump To)
Top Things To Do in Athens, Greece
If your time is short, these top things to see in Athens, Greece in one day will hit all the famous sites in Athens to check off your travel bucket list. Use these to build your One Day Athens Itinerary.
Acropolis of Athens
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €20
The Acropolis is the most famous ancient site in Athens, showcasing the Parthenon and other significant structures. It provides a stunning view of the city and a glimpse into ancient Greek civilization. Visiting this iconic landmark is a must for any traveler. Various ticket options including combination tickets with other nearby historic sites are available. The best prices we found were on our partner, Viator.
Parthenon
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Included in Acropolis ticket
The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is a symbol of classical Greece. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a centerpiece of the Acropolis. Exploring its columns and friezes offers insight into ancient art and religion.
Plaka Neighborhood
Map: Google Maps
Cost: FREE!
Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, is known for its charming streets and neoclassical architecture. It's a great place to find souvenirs, enjoy traditional Greek cuisine, and experience local culture. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time.
Check out our full guide to visiting the Plaka Neighborhood.
Ancient Agora of Athens
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €10
The Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens, serving as a marketplace and civic center. Visitors can see the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. The site provides a vivid picture of daily life in ancient Greece.
National Archaeological Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €12
This museum houses the world's richest collection of Greek antiquities. Its extensive exhibits cover prehistoric times through late antiquity. Highlights include the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera mechanism.
Other Great Things To See in Athens
Hadrian's Library
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €6
Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, this ancient site was once a large library and cultural center. Today, visitors can see the remains of its columns and walls. It's an essential stop for those looking to see ancient ruins in Athens, Greece in one day.
Philopappos Hill
Map: Google Maps
Cost: FREE!
Philopappos Hill offers stunning views of the Acropolis and the city. It's a great place for a scenic walk, with pathways leading to the Philopappos Monument. The hill is free to explore and perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Temple of Hephaestus
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Included in Ancient Agora ticket (€10)
The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Located in the Ancient Agora, it was dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship. Its well-preserved structure provides insight into ancient Greek architecture.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Cost: Varies by event
This ancient theater is still in use today for concerts and performances. Built in 161 AD, it offers excellent acoustics and a historical ambiance. Attending a show here is a unique experience.
Panathenaic Stadium
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €10
Home to the first modern Olympic games, this stadium dates back to 1896. It’s a great place to take a morning job (the track is open to runners daily from 7:30 am - 9:00 am). It’s the only stadium in the world built completely of marble.
Kerameikos
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €8
Kerameikos was the ancient cemetery of Athens and is now an archaeological site. Visitors can see well-preserved tombstones and monuments. The site also includes a small museum with artifacts from the area.
Mount Lycabettus
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free, funicular €12
Mount Lycabettus offers panoramic views of Athens and the Aegean Sea. A funicular railway takes visitors to the top, where they can visit the Chapel of St. George. You can also choose to hike up the hill. The paved path is relatively strenuous, but the views along the way make up for it. The viewing platform is a popular spot for sunset viewing and an ideal place to take photos.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €6
This temple, one of the largest in ancient Greece, was dedicated to Zeus. Only a few of its massive columns remain standing, but they offer a sense of its original grandeur. The site is close to the Acropolis and other central attractions.
We share credit card points and miles tips and tricks. These tools help us save money on our trips around the world by allowing us to accumulate airline and hotel points.
Best Restaurants in Athens, Greece
Your list of must-eat foods in Greece should include things like Moussaka, Souvlaki, Gyros, Spanakopita, and Greek salad. These best restaurants in Athens are a great place to start your culinary journey.
Varoulko Seaside
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €30-50
Located in the picturesque Mikrolimano harbor, Varoulko Seaside specializes in seafood dishes. Chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to earn a Michelin star, creates memorable meals. The restaurant offers stunning sea views and impeccable service.
Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €5-16 per plate
This traditional deli-restaurant serves Greek meze and charcuterie. It's renowned for its friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors. Guests can enjoy a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and classic dishes in a warm, inviting setting.
Dinner In The Sky
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €165
One of the most unique dining experiences in the world, Athen’s famous Dinner In The Sky hoists a table and diners into the sky to dine above the skyline of the city. Patrons enjoy a multi-course meal as the sun sets over the Acropolis and the entire city of Athens.
Oikeio
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €10-25
This restaurant located in the neighborhood of Kolonaki has a great menu of classic Greek dishes. Indoor and outdoor dining is available from the team of friendly servers. Moussaka, meatballs, Greek salad, and various cuts of pork are some highlights of the menu. Specials change daily.
Scholarhio
Map: Google Maps
Cost: €7-15 per plate (you’ll eat well for €20-40 per person)
Known for its meze-style dining where diners share appetizers (think Spanish tapas) Scholarhio serves a variety of amazing authentic Greek dishes like moussaka, Greek salad, seafood, and dolmas. Indoor and patio seating is available.
Lukumades
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €5
Aristotle is said to have mentioned these delicious honey-covered dough balls in his journals. Legend has it that lukumades are some of the oldest known pastries on the planet. In addition to the standard honey-covered versions, this dessert shop serves various filled, glazed, and frosted versions. A popular choice is to include a scoop of ice cream.
Kalamakeri
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €1.80-20
This off-the-beaten-path restaurant is a few blocks away from the group of major international chain hotels in the Lofos Sikelias neighborhood. They specialize in Greek grilled meat skewers known as souvlaki. The affordable prices and friendly service make Kalamakeri an excellent recommendation for lunch, dinner, or late-night snacking.
Kandavlos
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €8-18
Located in the Gazi district of Athens this is the place to get gyros. The large park-adjacent patio is the perfect place to enjoy one of their chicken or pork gyros. Massive portions are served on fresh pita bread. This is a great spot to prepare for a night out at some of the nearby clubs and LGBQ+ nightlife choices.
Things to Do for Families in Athens, Greece
Visiting Athens with a family is a great way to teach the kids about ancient history, but sometimes we all need a break from museums. Here are the best things to do with kids in Athens.
Attica Zoological Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: €24; Kids 3-12: €18; under 3: Free
Attica Zoological Park is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. It offers educational programs and interactive exhibits, making it a great destination for families. Kids will love the dolphin shows and the petting zoo area. The zoo is home to the world’s third-largest collection of birds.
Allou! Fun Park
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Pay by ride; Wristbands €15-25
Allou! Fun Park is the largest amusement park in Athens, offering rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly rides, it's a fun destination. The park also has games, food stalls, and evening entertainment.
National Garden
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free
The National Garden, located in the heart of Athens, provides a green oasis with playgrounds, ponds, and shaded paths. It's a wonderful place for a family picnic or a leisurely walk. The garden also houses a small zoo and a botanical museum.
Monastiraki Square
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free
Monastiraki Square is a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, and street vendors. Families can explore the nearby flea market, visit ancient ruins, shop in the giant Moustakas Toy Store, and enjoy delicious Greek snacks. The vibrant atmosphere makes it an exciting spot for all ages.
Cheap Things to Do in Athens, Greece
There are plenty of great options for free things to do in Athens during your vacation. It’s possible to enjoy a full day in Athens without spending a euro with these cheap Athens attractions.
Athens Central Market
Map: Google Maps
Cost: Free
Athens Central Market, also known as Varvakios Agora, is a bustling spot for fresh produce, meat, and fish. It's a sensory experience with vibrant colors and aromas. Sampling local foods and exploring the market are cheap things to do in Athens, Greece.
Diomidous Botanical Garden
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free, but book tickets in advance online.
This large botanical garden offers a peaceful retreat with diverse plant species and scenic walking paths. It's an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet escape. The garden is free to enter and perfect for a relaxing day out.
Little Kook
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies
Little Kook is a whimsical-themed cafe located in the heart of Athens. Each season, the decor transforms to match a different fairytale or story. It's a fun place to enjoy creative desserts and drinks, especially for families with children.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Athens or Greece!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Museums and Cultural Sites in Athens, Greece
As the cradle of Western civilization, Greece has no shortage of museums and cultural sites. We attempt to list a few of Athen’s best museums. These indoor spaces are great things to do in Athens in the heat or rain.
Benaki Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €12
The Benaki Museum showcases Greek art and history from antiquity to the modern era. Its diverse collection includes artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. The museum also hosts frequent temporary exhibitions, cultural events, children’s programs, and art workshops.
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €8
This museum offers a comprehensive look at Byzantine and post-Byzantine art and culture. Its exhibits feature icons, mosaics, and religious artifacts from the museum’s collection of over 30,000 pieces. Ceramics, sculptures, and important manuscripts are on display. The collection of 20th and 21st century art helps keep the museum fresh and modern for repeat visits.
Museum of Cycladic Art
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €12
Dedicated to the ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus, this museum houses impressive collections of Cycladic art. The minimalist design of the museum enhances the viewing experience. It offers insight into the early civilizations of the Aegean Sea.
Numismatic Museum of Athens
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €6
The Numismatic Museum displays a vast collection of coins, medals, and currency from ancient Greece to modern times. It's located in the historic Iliou Melathron building. The museum's garden cafe is a nice spot for a coffee break.
Athens War Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €6
This museum covers Greek military history from ancient times to the present. Its exhibits include weapons, uniforms, and historical documents. The highlight of the museum is the outdoor display featuring aircraft and artillery pieces
Hellenic Motor Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: €8
The Hellenic Motor Museum showcases a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles. It's a great place for automotive enthusiasts to learn about the history of motor vehicles. The vast collection includes everything from antique early motor vehicles to show-stopping modern dream cars. This is a must-do for car-obsessed dads everywhere.
Best Shopping in Athens
Looking for the best shopping in Athens? Our list includes Athens flea markets, shopping streets in Athens, and unique places in the city to find the perfect souvenir.
Ermou Street
Map: Google Maps
Ermou Street is a bustling shopping destination featuring international brands, local boutiques, and cafes. It's a pedestrian-friendly street that connects Syntagma Square with Monastiraki. Perfect for fashion lovers and souvenir seekers. Large chain stores dominate the street with smaller and local shops hidden between the H&Ms.
Athens Flea Market
Map: Google Maps
Located in Monastiraki, the Athens Flea Market offers a variety of antiques, clothing, and trinkets. It's a vibrant area with street performers and lively cafes. Great for finding unique souvenirs and gifts. It can be a fun activity to slowly poke through the shops for hidden treasures amongst the heaps of old things.
Kolonaki District
Map: Google Maps
Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafes. It's a hub for high-end shopping and dining. The area also features several cultural institutions and museums.
Athinas Street
Map: Google Maps
Athinas Street connects Omonia Square with Monastiraki. It's a vibrant street with shops selling spices, herbs, cooking tools, and traditional Greek products. The Central Market is also located here, adding to its bustling atmosphere.
Things to Do at Night in Athens, Greece
Athens comes alive at night, especially during the hot summers. You can find fun at clubs, bars, and entertainment venues with our guide to what to do in the evening in Athens.
Gazi Technopolis
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies by event
Gazi Technopolis is a vibrant cultural hub in the Gazi neighborhood. At night, it hosts concerts, exhibitions, and nightlife events. The area's restaurants and bars make it a lively destination for things to do in Athens, Greece at night.
Brettos Bar
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Varies
Brettos Bar, located in Plaka, is one of the oldest bars in Athens. Its colorful bottles and cozy atmosphere make it a unique spot for a drink. The bar serves a variety of Greek spirits and cocktails, perfect for an evening out.
Theater Train at Rouf
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Food and Drink Varies
This unique thing to do at night in Athens was one of our favorite stops during our time in the city. The out-of-service train is home to a restaurant, bar, and cinema space. We enjoyed a few drinks served from a historic wooden train car. It’s a truly unique Athens thing to do.
Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece
If you plan to use Athens as a starting point for other Greek adventures these day trips from Athens are a great way to start your exploration.
Hydra Island
Map: Google Maps
See on Viator: Partner Link
Hydra Island, a short ferry ride from Athens, is known for its stunning architecture and car-free streets. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and charming cafes. The island's relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect day trip destination.
Delphi
Map: Google Maps
See on Viator: Partner Link
Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the Temple of Apollo, the theater, and the stadium. The site's archaeological museum houses significant artifacts.
Nafplio
Map: Google Maps
See on Viator: Partner Link
Nafplio is a picturesque town known for its Venetian architecture and historic castles. Highlights include the Palamidi Fortress and the Bourtzi Castle. The town's charming streets and seaside promenade make it a delightful day trip.
Best Beaches Near Athens, Greece
Soak up the sun on a hot summer day at one of these beaches close to Athens. If you don’t have a car, many of these beaches are accessible by bus from Athens.
Vouliagmeni Beach
Map: Google Maps
Vouliagmeni Beach is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing, located a 30-minute drive from Athens. The beach features crystal-clear waters, sunbeds, and beach bars. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is also accessible by bus from central Athens, making it a great choice if you do not have access to a vehicle.
Schinias Beach
Map: Google Maps
Schinias Beach is a beautiful, sandy beach located within the Schinias National Park. It's a great place for water sports, including windsurfing and kayaking. The surrounding pine forest adds to its natural charm. The beach is located about one hour from Athens by car, making it a great day trip destination.
Sounio Beach
Map: Google Maps
Sounio Beach is located near the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Visitors can enjoy a swim in the clear waters and then visit the ancient temple. The beach is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience. The beach is located about one hour from Athens by car. A perfect day trip is to spend the day at the beach then make your way to the Temple of Poseidon to enjoy the sunset.
Here’s a list of some of the best beaches within a 30-minute drive from central Athens, along with descriptions and information on accessibility by public transportation:
Astir Beach
Map: Google Maps
Astir Beach, located in the affluent area of Vouliagmeni, is one of the most luxurious and exclusive beaches near Athens. It offers pristine waters, a sandy shoreline, and high-end amenities like luxury sunbeds, fine dining restaurants, and beachside bars. The beach is popular among locals and visitors looking for a more upscale experience. The beach is located 30 minutes from Athens by car or public bus.
Kavouri Beach
Map: Google Maps
Kavouri Beach is located in the area of Voula and is known for its relaxed vibe and natural beauty. The beach has both sandy and rocky sections, offering a tranquil environment with clear, shallow waters. It's a less crowded option compared to other beaches, making it great for those looking for a quieter spot. The beach is about 30 minutes by car or bus from central Athens.
Glyfada Beach
Map: Google Maps
Glyfada Beach is one of the closest beaches to Athens, located just 20 minutes by car from the city. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, featuring a long stretch of sandy beach with crystal-clear waters. The beach is semi-organized, with areas for swimming, sunbathing, and various beach bars offering snacks and drinks. The lively atmosphere and proximity to Glyfada’s shopping and dining district make it a favorite destination. The area is easily accessible by public transportation.
Varkiza Beach (Yabanaki Beach)
Map: Google Maps
Varkiza Beach, also known as Yabanaki, is a large and popular beach with fine sand, clear waters, and extensive facilities including restaurants, beach bars, water sports, and playgrounds. It’s particularly popular among younger crowds and families. The beach offers both organized and free sections. The beach is about 45 minutes from Athens by car or public transportation.
Kalamaki Beach
Map: Google Maps
Kalamaki Beach is one of the closest beaches to central Athens. It’s an organized beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and sports facilities. The beach is known for its lively atmosphere and is popular among younger visitors. The proximity to the city makes it a convenient choice for a quick beach escape.
Best Things to Do in Athens:
Acropolis of Athens
Parthenon
Plaka Neighborhood
Ancient Agora of Athens
National Archaeological Museum
Hadrian's Library
Philopappos Hill
Temple of Hephaestus
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Panathenaic Stadium
Kerameikos
Mount Lycabettus
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Varoulko Seaside
Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
Dinner In The Sky
Oikeio
Scholarhio
Lukumades
Kalamakeri
Kandavlos
Attica Zoological Park
Allou! Fun Park
National Garden
Monastiraki Square
Athens Central Market
Diomidous Botanical Garden
Little Kook
Benaki Museum
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Museum of Cycladic Art
Numismatic Museum of Athens
Athens War Museum
Hellenic Motor Museum
Ermou Street
Athens Flea Market
Kolonaki District
Athinas Street
Gazi Technopolis
Brettos Bar
Theater Train at Rouf
Hydra Island
Delphi
Nafplio
Vouliagmeni Beach
Schinias Beach
Sounio Beach
Astir Beach
Kavouri Beach
Glyfada Beach
Varkiza Beach
Kalamaki Beach
