Top Things to Do in Athens: A Tourist-Friendly Guide

Athens is a city that is the perfect amalgamation of past and present civilizations. Anyone who visits this place witnesses the enchanting grandeur from the times of Plato and Socrates. These philosophers weaved human thought which is reflected in every corner of this city. The iconic Acropolis rises majestically above the bustling modern city, its Parthenon glowing golden under the Mediterranean sun which makes this place so unique for anyone who visits here.

Yet Athens is not just a relic of history; it hums with contemporary life as there is so much stuff to do in Athens, Greece. You will find vibrant neighbourhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki spill over with street art, cosy tavernas, and the scent of freshly baked foods. The city's soul lies in its contrasts between ancient marble columns and sleek rooftop bars, between timeless myths and dynamic, ever-evolving culture.

Best Things to Do in Athens

Here is a comprehensive list of things to see and do in Athens for your next trip: -

• Visit Acropolis Museum
• Roam Around Plaka
• Beach time at the Athens Riviera
• Check Out Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Get Amazed by the Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Gain Knowledge in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Take a Stroll Around Kerameikos
• Be All Touristy at Monastiraki Square
• Go Back in Time at the Academy of Athens
• Get the Best Views from Areopagus Hill

Visit Acropolis Museum

The Museum of Acropolis Athens is one of the most sought-after museums in the city as it is a landmark of contemporary architecture. Home to numerous artefacts found on the Acropolis and the surrounding slopes, this place will leave you in awe. The collection features pieces from pre-classical times to the Roman era. However, the focus is on Parthenon Frieze sculptures from the fifth century BC. It is among the best things to do in Athens for those who enjoy learning about the past of a country. You can buy tickets for the museum online or at the location at your convenience.

Roam Around Plaka

If you want to enjoy the charm of the city, then consider going to Plaka. It is a neighbourhood in Athens where you will find many things to see and do. It stretches from the Acropolis to Syntagma Square and allows you to witness the vibrance of the local life in Athens. Roaming around and exploring the Plaka neighbourhood is the greatest stuff to do in Athens. You will find many beautifully restored buildings that are turned into stately homes. Featuring many ancient sites, museums, historic churches and picturesque small squares with bustling cafes, this place is a must-visit. Make sure you visit the Anafiotika area where you will find an array of bougainvillea blooming, perfect for your Instagram pictures!

Beach time at the Athens Riviera

The Athens Riviera is a stretch of stunning coastline extending from the southern suburbs of Athens to Cape Sounion. It is a Mediterranean gem that seamlessly blends metropolitan charm with coastal tranquillity. The best things to do in Athens are to enjoy quality time at the beach, look at the scenic promenades, and steep into the historical essence. You can enjoy sips and munches at one of the bars or restaurants located in this area. Among the other things to do in Athens, Greece is to enjoy water sports, yacht cruises, or moments of serenity by the sea.

Check Out Odeon of Herodes Atticus

People who love to explore the beauty and history of a place should visit the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This timeless beauty was built in the 2nd century AD and sits on the foot of the Acropolis hill. The things to do in Athens for tourists is to enjoy the art, architecture, and history of this place. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was a hub for music, theatre, and philosophical discourse in the olden days. Now, it beautifully hosts world-class performances under the star-studded Athenian sky during the Athens and Epidaurus Festival. If you are here, make sure you put one of the performances on your things to do in Athens list.

Get Amazed by the Temple of Olympian Zeus

When planning your trip, make sure you include visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus in your things to do in Athens, Greece checklist. The temple was built in honour of Zeus and was one of the largest ever of the ancient temples. It featured 104 unusually tall columns in ancient times but was sacked by a barbarian invasion. However, the remains of the structure still showcase the grandeur the temple must have had at that time. Visiting this temple is the best stuff to do in Athens if you love to witness the history and culture of a place.

Gain Knowledge in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

If you are a fan of war memorials, then things to see and do in Athens is to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is located in Syntagma Square and is dedicated to the Greek soldiers who died in war. There is a change of guard at the memorial after every hour. But one of the best tourist things to do in Athens is to be there on a Sunday when a group of soldiers march to the tomb, showcasing an elaborate display.

Take a Stroll Around Kerameikos

Kerameikos is an archaeological site in Athens. Visiting here is considered the best stuff to do in Athens, Greece for any history buff. It is located to the northwest of the Acropolis which includes both sides of the Dipylon Gate and by the banks of the Eridanos River. Earlier, it was a thriving hub of potters and ceramicists and today it is a place where the mundane and the divine are intertwined. It is a true testament to the enduring spirit of Athens and its timeless connection to art and life. This is why it is one of the best things to do and see in Athens.

Be All Touristy at Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square is situated in the heart of Athens. It is a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and modern energy that you will love experiencing while you are here. The place is surrounded by ancient ruins and colourful neoclassical buildings, which make the place so unique for explorers.

Go Back in Time at the Academy of Athens

The Academy of Athens is a true representation of intellect and culture. Founded in 1926, it embodies the enduring spirit of inquiry that once flourished under the guidance of Plato, whose original Academy shaped the course of Western philosophy. Its neoclassical façade glimmers with statues of Athena and Apollo, guardians of knowledge and art. Within its hallowed halls, the Academy homes science, humanities, and fine arts. Visiting the Academy of Athens is the best stuff to do in Athens as it is testament to Greece’s timeless commitment to knowledge and preservation of cultural heritage.

Get the Best Views from Areopagus Hill

Areopagus Hill is perched gracefully near the Acropolis in Athens. This is yet another place steeped in history and myth. Overlooking the bustling city below, the hill offers not only a captivating view of Athens but also a sense of timeless reverence. In ancient times, it was a revered site for the Areopagus council, where philosophers, lawmakers, and leaders gathered to shape the course of the city. Today, visitors from around the world climb its rocky slopes to take a look at the awe-inspiring views and dive deep into Greek history. If you are someone who enjoys both history and beautiful views, then do not miss out on putting this place on your things to do in the Athens, Greece list!

These are some of the stuff to do in Athens. Make sure you check out Athens tour packages provided by reputed travel agencies like Veena World to elevate your holiday experience.