odeon Herodes Atticus Why Athens
The entrance to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Photograph: Why Athens

WHAT to do in Athens

There are endless possibilities and things to do in Athens to suit a wide range of interests but as always it comes down to that precious commodity called time. We’ve compiled and curated the very best of what to do and things to see including, attractions, museums, shopping and other leisurely activities for you to get the most out of your visit to Athens. So get your walking shoes on, pack some sunscreen and get ready to explore this fascinating metropolis.

Athens attractions

It goes without saying that you really must see the Acropolis and set aside at least half a day to do so. It is unlikely that you will get to see all of the Athens attractions in one visit, particularly if you want to go at a reasonable pace, smell the roses and enjoy the modern side of Athens as well.

Things to do in Athens: museums

You can read about Athens museums in our ‘Museums’ category. History buffs will have an absolute field day particularly when it comes to the Acropolis Museum. Ranked as one of the best museums in the world, the collections from the Greek Bronze era to the Roman and Byzantine periods are truly exceptional. It’s a good idea to attend the museum before you go to the Acropolis, as it will put a great deal of what you will see in and around the Parthenon into perspective. Museum guides are also available in several languages.

Things to do in Athens: shopping

For those wanting to squeeze in some shopping therapy, we have divided our shopping category into two. In our ‘Where to Shop’ category, we provide a curated list of shops that are first and foremost Athenian. You will find stylish Greek fashion labels and independent designers. If you’re looking for a special keepsake to take home and remember Greece by, our ‘Souvenirs’ category features authentic Greek gifts that are lovingly made in Greece.

Things to do in Athens: leisure & experiences

We’re all for site seeing and exploring but somewhere in your trip you may just want to relax and enjoy the city as the locals do. In our ‘Leisure’ category, we’ve listed some stand out places to go and relax including one of the oldest places to sip a coffee in Athens, along with the best place to spend the day swimming. If you want to meet some locals and find out more about the city, its culture and history, we’ve selected some of the best-structured day tours.

  • Ancient Epidaurus Theatre Programme Tickets

    Getting to the ancient theatre of Epidaurus from Athens

    Visiting the Epidaurus theatre is an absolute highlight and particularly when there is a performance scheduled. There are daily buses that can take you direct or via the pretty town of Nafplion. Buses depart from the bus depot located in Kifissos. Special bus timetables operate to co-ordinate with theatre performances.

    Read More
  • Acropolis of Athens Sign Anafiotika

    The Acropolis

    As you would expect, the Acropolis has the final word of what to see in Athens. The temples on the sacred rock are considered the most important monuments in Western civilisation and have influenced architecture more than anything else since. From the top, its mesmerising view has been a source of inspiration for many foreign travellers,…

    Read More
  • Byzantine Churches Athens Panagia Kapnikarea

    Churches in Athens and the remains of Byzantium

    The churches and monasteries throughout Athens and indeed Greece represent an enduring tale of strength and defiance through centuries of crusades and occupation that tightly bound the Orthodox Church and the Hellenic nation together. It was in the middle Byzantine period during the 11th and 12th centuries when the most significant churches were built in…

    Read More
  • Panathenaic Stadium Athens Panorama

    The Panathenaic Stadium

    The spectacular Panathenaic Stadium remains one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and is a shining beacon of modern Athens. Following several transformations over its long history, it eventually became the home of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and remains the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble. The…

    Read More
  • Nafplion Bourtzi Castle Why Athens

    Nafplio, a romantic departure close to Athens

    Napflio, also known as Anapli, is the main port in the Eastern Peloponnese and one of the most picturesque cities in Greece. According to mythology, it was built by Poseidon’s son, Nafplios, who named the city after himself. “Napoli di Romania” as the Venetians used to call it, maintains its history, local colour and traditions…

    Read More
  • Greece for Kids Athens Families Gardens

    Athens for Families

    Whether your kids are big or small, Athens is the perfect city destination to explore as a family at all times of the year. With a vibrant food scene, your children will relish in the delicious and healthy flavours of Greece that includes an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, exceptional olive oils and the…

    Read More