Tip: <\/strong>Although the walk to the summit only takes 10 minutes, it is a steep climb, and the marble is slippery, so wear trainers or good walking shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOdeon of Herodes Atticus<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a grand amphitheater on the slopes of the Acropolis and one of the most impressive things to do on your trip to Athens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The dramatic open-air theater is the perfect place to visit during the summer and into early fall when it is used for the Athens Epidaurus Festival (one of the oldest running festivals in Europe!). You can also enjoy moonlit concerts with world-famous musicians; it\u2019s a fantastic experience to see life brought back to the 2000-year-old monument. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Acropolis Museum<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For history buffs, the Acropolis Museum is well worth a visit for an extra 10 EUR (10.42 USD). Standing 300 meters from the Acropolis, the light-filled modern building contrasts dramatically with its ancient surroundings. Here you can see stunning statues, fascinating archaeological excavations, and panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis itself. This is also a great place to start a day of exploring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Entry Fee & Opening Times<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Acropolis is open from April to October 8 AM \u2013 8 PM and November to March 8 AM \u2013 5 PM. However, we recommend checking opening times on the Acropolis website before visiting. The entrance fee is 20 EUR (20.80 USD) at the ticket office or online, with cheaper tickets available in the winter months. If you are staying in Athens for longer, there is also a 5-day visit combined ticket for 30 EUR (31.25 USD), which includes all the museums.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Visit the Plaka Neighborhood<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Plaka <\/strong>is one of Athens\u2019s oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods, nestled underneath the Acropolis rock. Escape the sun by wandering the narrow tree-lined streets and following the ancient Greeks\u2019 footsteps (one of the top things to do in Athens!).<\/p>\n\n\n\nExplore small picturesque squares with sand-colored houses, and browse shops filled with clothing, jewelry, and traditional rugs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main streets can be busy, but if you stray from the center, you can find peaceful little corners with ancient ruins. Take a seat outside at one of the many bustling restaurants and people-watch while you eat. Later, enjoy live music and sip a glass of ouzo as you take in Athens at night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anafiotika, Plaka<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t miss out on visiting Anafiotika, a tiny corner of Plaka on the slopes of the Acropolis. The white-painted streets and houses with their plant-filled doorways transport you to the Greek islands; it\u2019s an island village in the heart of Athens!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip:<\/strong> For an unforgettable night out on a budget, check out Cine Paris, an open-air cinema paired with a rooftop garden with spectacular views of the Acropolis. The cinema is open May \u2013 October.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaka Stairs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Plaka Stairs is a beautiful outdoor staircase leading to the Acropolis, filled with cozy Greek restaurant terraces. Colorful buildings and flower-filled pots line the stairs, the atmosphere is lively, and there is usually a street musician or two! Cafe-hop as you make your way up these iconic steps (Our favorite restaurant was\u00a0Anefani). \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A great way to explore Plaka is by joining a photography walking tour!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For great vintage and antique shopping, look no further than the Monastiraki neighborhood, particularly the famous Monastiraki flea market. This fantastic market sells unique second-hand clothes, trendy shoes, affordable linen wear, high-quality leather goods, and cute souvenirs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are also plenty of other great stores in the streets surrounding the market (one of our favorites was \u2018Hippie Shop\u2019, which is just around the corner). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If antiques are more your vibe, check out the market at Avissinias Square on Sundays. This wonderful treasure trove is home to ceramics, vintage radios, furniture, jewels, vinyl records, stamps, coins, and old books\u2014all sold by friendly street vendors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our favorite places to shop for vintage goods in Athens were:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- New Skin Vintage clothing (clothing)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Treasure House (clothing)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Retrosexual Vintage shop (furniture)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Kilo-Shop (clothing)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t be scared to haggle! It is part of Greek culture to barter before you buy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Central Market<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
One of the best things to do in Athens is to visit the Central Market. Packed with fresh meat and seafood, colorful fruit and veg, and a huge variety of spices, nuts, and pastries, it will satisfy the most passionate foodies! Mingle with the locals as you smell, taste, and experience what Athens has to offer. It\u2019s also a cheap alternative to eating out for those on a budget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the most flavorsome experience, join an organized tour of the markets, where you\u2019ll get to sample all the best delicacies in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Sunset from Lycabettus or Philopappos Hill <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These two hills are not only great spots for a hike, but from the top, you\u2019ll also have the best views of Athens and the Acropolis!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Philopappos Hill<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For a slightly easier climb, choose Philopappos Hill, which is closer to the center. The walk up here is beautiful as you wind your way through pine and olive trees to the monument at the top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lycabettus Hill<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For the highest point in Athens\u2014and the best views\u2014Lycabettus Hill is the place to go. It is a steeper walk, but once at the top, you can see all of Athens and even the islands on the Athenian coast! The route is paved, but if you don\u2019t fancy walking, you can hop on to the cable car, which carries you to the summit. Explore the gorgeous Greek church and have a bite to eat at one of the cafes at sunset (if you time it right, you\u2019ll also see the lights come on at the Acropolis!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Lake Vouliagmeni<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve heard of the\u00a0French Riviera, but how about the Athenian Riviera? Only a 30-minute drive from the center of Athens (or 75 minutes by public transport), Lake Vouliagmeni is one of the best things to do in Athens and the perfect place to spend a day relaxing in the sun, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With an average temperature of 24 \u00b0C (75.2 \u00b0F), the thermal lake is an excellent spot for a dip (even in winter!). The crystal clear emerald water has healing properties, and small fish offer mini spa treatments by exfoliating your skin! What\u2019s more, the lake is surrounded by stunning scenery of high rocky cliffs and is classed as a site of Outstanding Natural Beauty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on a sun lounger. Alternatively, take a hike up into the hills to gaze down on the lake and surrounding coastline from above. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip:<\/strong>\u00a0Near the lake, there is also a restaurant with great food.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\nEntry Fee & Opening Times<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Open 8 AM \u2013 5 PM. General admission costs 15 EUR (15.63 USD) on weekdays and 18 EUR (18.75 USD) on weekends (sun lounger included in ticket price).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can reach the lake by using this hop-on hop-off bus service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Relax at the Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s right; you don\u2019t need to go as far as the islands to experience fantastic beaches in Greece \u2013 Athens has them too! A gorgeous coastline awaits only 20 minutes from the center, which can be reached easily by metro and tram. Whether you prefer rocky or sandy beaches, somewhere more secluded or a more lively spot, the Athenian coastline has something for everyone. Some of the best beaches to visit are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Vouliagmeni<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Although there is a small entrance fee, Vouliagmeni is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It also sits next door to the thermal lake, so it\u2019s worth visiting if you\u2019re already in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, there are lots of boat tours that leave from Athens that will take you along the coastline to visit some of the most beautiful beaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kape<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
One of the more stunning beaches, Kape is secluded and peaceful. Although you have to walk down a steep flight of 100 steps to get there, the crystal clear waters are well worth the effort, so if you\u2019re not heading to the islands, this is the next best thing! Come in the off-season when it\u2019s even quieter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alimos<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
If you don\u2019t want to stray too far from town, head to Alimos. With white sand, gorgeous blue water, and plenty of sun loungers to choose from, this spot is popular with locals and easily accessible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip:<\/strong> You may hear the phrase \u2018organized beach\u2019, which just means there are facilities available such as toilets, changing rooms, and sun loungers. Some of these beaches may have an entrance fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Street Art Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Street art may not be the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Athens, but the city is packed full of it! One of the best (and free!) things to do in Athens is to take a walk through its neighborhoods and spot incredible pieces of art from both local and internationally-renowned artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Head out on your own or take a tour with an expert guide who can explain more about the artists and their work.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best places to see great art are Exarcheia, Psirri, and Gazi. However, you can also see some beautiful murals in the more touristy areas of Plaka or Monastiraki. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
9. Cafes and Rooftop Bars<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s a huge cafe culture in the Greek capital, and one of the best things to do in Athens is to experience as many as possible! Every neighborhood has cafes full of charm and character where you can enjoy a coffee and a snack to fuel you for a day of sightseeing. If the weather is warm, opt for a \u2018Freddo\u2019 cappuccino or espresso (the Greek version of an iced coffee).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the evenings, the culture continues as cocktail bars open their doors all over the city. Here, cocktails aren\u2019t just a drink; they are an art form! Head to one of the many rooftop bars for a spectacular alternative view of the Acropolis at night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n