things-to-do-in-Athens

Discover the Cradle of Western Civilization: Things to Do in Athens

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Athens boasts an impressive array of ancient ruins, museums, and cultural attractions that will leave you enchanted.

Explore Ancient Ruins

  • The Acropolis: Perched atop a hill, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crowning jewel of Athens’ historic sites. Visit the Parthenon, a stunning temple dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city.
  • The Temple of Olympian Zeus: This ancient temple was once one of the largest in Greece, and although only 15 columns remain, it’s still an awe-inspiring sight.
  • The Theatre of Dionysus: Built in the 6th century BC, this ancient theater is where Greek tragedies were first performed.

Visit World-Class Museums

  • The National Archaeological Museum: Home to over 100,000 artifacts, including the golden Mask of Agamemnon and the legendary Antikythera Mechanism.
  • The Acropolis Museum: A must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Greek history, this museum showcases a stunning collection of artifacts from the Acropolis.

Enjoy Cultural Experiences

  • Monastiraki Flea Market: Every Sunday, the historic neighborhood of Monastiraki transforms into a bustling flea market, offering a kaleidoscope of goods, food, and entertainment.
  • Greek Folk Dance Shows: Experience the traditional dances and music of Greece at one of the many folk dance shows in town.

Relax in Parks and Gardens

  • The National Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, this beautiful garden features walking trails, a small lake, and a variety of plant species.
  • Philopappos Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of this hill, which is also home to a stunning ancient monument.

Sample Delicious Cuisine

  • Traditional Tavernas: Savor classic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and grilled octopus at one of the many traditional tavernas in town.
  • Street Food: Try authentic street food like gyros, falafel, or souvlaki from a local vendor.

Shop and Stroll

  • Monastiraki Flea Market (mentioned earlier): Find unique souvenirs, antiques, and handmade crafts at this bustling market.
  • Ermou Street: This iconic shopping street offers a mix of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and traditional tavernas.

Get Active

  • Hiking and Bike Tours: Explore the surrounding hills and countryside on foot or by bike with a guided tour.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding at one of the many beaches in Athens.

Practical Information

  • Getting Around: Athens has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. You can also walk or take a taxi to get around.
  • Language: Greek is the official language, but most Athenians speak English fluently.
  • Currency: The Euro is the local currency.

Tips for Visitors

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting ancient sites and respect local traditions.
  • Stay Hydrated: Athens can get hot during the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
  • Learn a Few Greek Phrases: Impress the locals with your basic Greek phrases like “Γεια σας” (Geia sas) - cheers!