Although Athens has evolved into a bustling and cosmopolitan city, it still retains elements of its ancient splendor. It is an ideal destination for visiting ancient sites and monuments and serves as an excellent base for excursions around Greece. Throughout the city, you will find monuments from various historical periods, including the Ancient and Roman times, as well as the Byzantine and Modern eras.
The best sightseeing spots in Athens are conveniently located within walking distance from the city center, making them easy to explore on foot or via a bus tour.
DISCOVER THE BEST TOURS OF ATHENS Explore our curated selection of popular tours, including sightseeing tours, visits to the Acropolis and museums, day cruises, and more. Discover the tours!
Below, you will find the top sights in Athens: ancient sites, museums, churches, castles, and other points of interest. You can filter these sights by category and location.
After exploring all the sights, be sure to check out All Things to Do in Athens, which includes the best beaches, villages, restaurants, and more.
We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Athens, featuring the must-see attractions and activities in Greece’s capital: places to visit, landmarks, swimming spots, activities, tours, dining options, and more.
Key highlights include visiting the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, strolling through the charming neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, exploring the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), dining at top restaurants and traditional taverns, swimming along the Riviera’s beaches, taking a day cruise to the Saronic islands, and embarking on day tours to renowned archaeological sites like Delphi and Epidaurus.
Check out the table of contents for a quick overview of our recommendations.
Although Athens is renowned for its historical sights, the city also boasts beautiful seaside spots worth exploring. The beaches of Athens are located along the southern and northeastern coasts of the Attica peninsula.
In brief, the southeastern coastline, stretching from Glyfada to Cape Sounion, offers both organized beaches and secluded coves perfect for a beach day. Vouliagmeni, close to the city center, is a well-organized spot. In the northern part of Attica, Schinias is a must-visit for its charm. For a unique swimming experience, head to Vouliagmeni Lake. Kape stands out for its natural beauty and is one of the most spectacular options.
While many beaches are accessible by bus, renting a car provides ease and convenience. Book your car with us at the best prices! Rent your car with us!
Below is a list of the best beaches in Athens, sorted by popularity. After visiting these, be sure to check out the Best Things to Do in Athens, including top sights, restaurants, activities, and more.
There are many different ways to travel to Athens, the capital and largest city of Greece.
Below, you will find all the information needed to travel to Athens with ease!
• Flights • Ferries • Helicopters • Buses • Trains • FAQ
In brief, it is possible to reach Athens by various means of transportation. The city is served by an International Airport, three ferry ports, two intercity bus stations, and suburban railway and train networks. Depending on your starting point, flying or taking a ferry are the most practical and preferred options.
Don’t forget to learn about the local transportation options to organize your transfer to your hotel and explore every spot in the city easily!
Historical Landmarks: Athens is known for its rich history and ancient landmarks. The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction, featuring iconic structures such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Other historical sites include the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, and Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Museums: Athens boasts several world-class museums that offer insight into Greek history and culture. The Acropolis Museum, located near the Acropolis, showcases artifacts from the archaeological site. The National Archaeological Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
Neighborhoods: Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Athens to experience its vibrant culture. Plaka, known as the “neighborhood of the gods,” features charming streets lined with neoclassical buildings, shops, and tavernas. Monastiraki is famous for its bustling flea market, where you can find a variety of goods and souvenirs.
Culinary Scene: Greek cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Athens. Sample traditional dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad at local tavernas and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste fresh seafood at the fish markets or enjoy a leisurely meal at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis.
Nightlife: Athens offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Gazi and Psiri are popular nightlife districts known for their trendy bars and clubs. Plaka and Monastiraki also offer a more laid-back atmosphere with cozy cafes and rooftop bars.
Shopping: Shopaholics will enjoy exploring Athens’ shopping districts, which offer everything from designer boutiques to traditional markets. Ermou Street is a bustling shopping street lined with international brands, while the Monastiraki Flea Market is perfect for finding unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Day Trips: Take advantage of Athens’ central location to explore nearby attractions. Popular day trips include visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, exploring the ancient city of Delphi, or taking a ferry to the nearby islands of Aegina, Hydra, or Poros.
These are just a few highlights of what Athens has to offer for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, cuisine, or nightlife, Athens has something for everyone to enjoy.
Embark on the ultimate adventure across the enchanting Greek islands with the freedom of a camper or caravan. Picture yourself cruising along winding coastal roads, discovering hidden coves, and camping under the starlit Mediterranean sky—it’s the stuff dreams are made of.
But why stop there when you can elevate your island-hopping experience with the expertise of our travel agency? Let us be your trusted guide as you navigate the turquoise waters and sun-drenched landscapes of Greece’s most coveted destinations.