Discover Ancient Athens

The Acropolis and Parthenon

The Acropolis, towering over the city of Athens, is the crown jewel of ancient Greece, with the Parthenon at its heart. As you climb the rocky hill, the Parthenon comes into view, its columns glowing golden in the sunlight. Standing before this iconic temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, I tried to imagine what it must have been like to see it back in the day. The views from the top are beautiful, offering a panorama of Athens that stretches all the way to the sea.

The Ancient Agora & Temple Of Hephaestus

The Ancient Agora, was once the center of Athenian life. Now it’s a peaceful archaeological site where you can learn about stories of democracy and daily life in ancient Greece. The highlight is the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, which stands proudly at the edge of the Agora.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, though mostly in ruins today, still impresses with its colossal columns that hint at its former glory. Once the largest temple in Greece, it was dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus. Standing beneath these towering columns, I felt dwarfed by their sheer size and could only imagine the awe they must have inspired in ancient times.

Hadrian’s Arch

Hadrian’s Arch is close to the temple of Zeus, so a little stopover here makes sense.  This monumental gateway separated the ancient city from the Roman city.

Odeon Of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, built in 161 AD, is an ancient amphitheater on the southern slopes of the Acropolis. The acoustics are a testament to how good ancient engineering was. The theater still hosts performances and concerts.  Seeing a show here, with the acropolis as a backdrop is a wonderful experience.

Run Around The Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. Originally constructed in 330 BC for the Panathenaic Games, it was also the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Explore Athens’ Museums

The Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is a modern architectural gem that houses a priceless collection of artifacts from the Acropolis. Visiting the museum will give you a deeper understanding of the Acropolis, making your visit to the ruins that much better!  The highlight for me was the Parthenon Gallery, where the original Parthenon sculptures are displayed in a layout that mirrors their original placement on the temple. The museum offers a deeper understanding of the Acropolis, making the ancient ruins even more meaningful.

The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum shows Greek art and artifacts. The museum’s collection includes the famous Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism, a remarkable ancient analog computer. Each artifact in this museum offers a window into the life of the ancient Greeks.

See Athens viewpoints

Hike Up Philopappou Hill

Philopappou Hill, also known as the Hill of the Muses, has the best views of the Acropolis and the city of Athens. Climbing the hill you are surrounded by greenery and quiet, before reaching a wonderful panoramic view at the top. At the top you can also find the Monument of Philopappos, dedicated to a Roman senator who loved Athens. An amazing spot to watch the sunset and watch the golden light hit the acropolis.

Hike Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus is the highest point in Athens and the most popular spot for the sunset. The hike to the top is well worth the effort, but there is also a funicular that can take you up. Especially when it’s hot, that can be panic option. From the top you can see the entire city, with the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains all in view. There’s a small chapel of St. George at the summit adding to the viewpoints charm.

Stroll Through Historic Neighborhoods

Plaka

Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with neoclassical buildings, charming cafes, and souvenir shops. Wandering through Plaka, with the scent of Greek food in the air is a must. The area is full of life, and I loved sitting at a traditional taverna, enjoying a meal while people-watching.

Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of Athens’ most vibrant and bustling neighborhoods, known for its lively flea market and mix of ancient and modern attractions. I spent hours exploring the market, where you can find everything from antiques to handmade jewelry.

Psiri

Psiri is Athens’ bohemian quarter, known for its eclectic mix of street art, trendy bars, and traditional tavernas. As I wandered through Psiri’s colorful streets, I was struck by the contrast between the old and the new. The neighborhood’s lively nightlife scene is perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Athens, with live music, cocktails, and a buzzing atmosphere.

Experience Modern Athens

Syntagma Square and the Changing of the Guard

Syntagma Square is the political heart of Athens, home to the Hellenic Parliament and the site of the city’s most famous ceremony: the Changing of the Guard. I watched in awe as the Evzones, the elite presidential guard, performed their precisely choreographed routine in traditional uniforms. The ceremony takes place every hour, but the Sunday morning performance is particularly impressive. Syntagma Square is not only a great place to witness this unique tradition but also a central hub for exploring the rest of the city.

Day Trips from Athens. 

Meteora

Meteora is one of my favorite places in Greece, maybe even in Europe. I once saw a google screensaver and basically booked a ticket right away. Technically, I wouldn’t really advice doing a day trip here, because I’d advice spending a few days here. However! it is possible to book a day trip from Athens if you don’t have a lot of time and it’s absolutely magical!

Find my full guide for Meteora here. 

The Saronic Islands

There are several beautiful islands close to Athens. Just a short ferry ride away and you’ll be enjoying delightful beaches with crystal clear water. The best Islands to choose from for a day trip are  Aegina, Hydra, or Poros. Aegina is known for its sandy beaches and delicious pistachio. Next up, Hydra is known to be a car free paradise with pristine beaches and charming harbors. Poros is known for white beaches and a picturesque waterfront. If you’re looking for an island getaway from the city, here’s how you get there:

Athens to Aegina Ferry: Travel time: 58 min  price: €10.50 –  €19

Athens to Hydra Ferry:Travel time: 1h 35 min , price: €38 –  €52

Athens to Poros Ferry: Travel time: 1h 30 min, price: €17-€45

Best Time to Visit Athens

The peak season in all of Europe is summer, which runs from June trough August. Athens is packed with tourists around this time, and hotel prices can be high. July and August are the hottest months. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept–Oct). Around this time it will be cooler and not as busy.

Best restaurants in Athens

a Little taste of home restaurant: Wonderful greek restaurant, with lovely staff.

Where to stay in Athens