What to do in Athens

Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon

The Acropolis, crowned by the majestic Parthenon, is undoubtedly Athens’ most emblematic site and a must-see for all visitors. Perched on a rocky hill, the Acropolis offers panoramic views over the city and is home to several monuments of immense historical and architectural importance. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture and symbolizes the apogee of Greek art and culture. While exploring the site, you can also admire other remarkable buildings such as the Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nikè. A visit to the Acropolis is a true immersion in ancient history, offering a fascinating insight into Greek civilization.

Explore the Acropolis Museum

Just below the Acropolis is the Acropolis Museum, an impressive modern facility housing a vast collection of artifacts discovered on the site. Opened in 2009, this museum offers an immersive experience thanks to its innovative architecture and well-organized exhibits. Visitors can discover sculptures, friezes and everyday objects dating back to ancient times. The museum is particularly famous for the Parthenon marbles and the original Caryatids from the Erechtheion. Thanks to its large windows, the museum also offers uninterrupted views of the Acropolis, establishing a visual and symbolic link with the archaeological site.

Walking in Plaka

The Plaka district, at the foot of the Acropolis, is one of the oldest and most charming in Athens. With its cobbled streets, colorful neoclassical houses and shady squares, Plaka offers a picturesque, relaxed atmosphere. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and you’ll discover a host of artisanal stores, traditional tavernas and welcoming cafés. Plaka is also dotted with historic sites such as the Tower of the Winds and the Roman Agora. This district is ideal for strolling around, sampling authentic local cuisine and immersing yourself in the warm, friendly atmosphere of Athens.

Discover the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the most important museums in Greece and the world, housing an impressive collection of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years of Greek history. Its vast exhibition rooms feature treasures ranging from ancient statues and gold objects to frescoes and vases. Highlights include the famous bronze statue of Poseidon or Zeus, the golden head of Mycenae and the Thera frescoes. The museum offers a complete immersion in the evolution of Greek art and culture, from prehistory to late antiquity, and is a must-see for all history buffs.

Admire the view from Lycabette Hill

Lycabette Hill is the highest point in Athens, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea in the distance. Accessible by funicular or on foot for the more adventurous, this hill is an ideal place to admire the sunset and capture memorable photos. At the top, you’ll find the little white chapel of Saint-Georges, as well as a café-restaurant where you can relax and enjoy the view. The Lycabette Hill is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of Athens from a different angle.

Relax in the National Gardens

The National Gardens, in the heart of Athens, are a haven of peace and greenery, offering a pleasant break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Created in the 19th century for Queen Amalia, these gardens cover an area of 15.5 hectares and are home to a wide variety of plants, flowers and exotic trees. As you stroll along the shady alleys, you’ll also discover ponds, ancient ruins, sculptures and a small zoo. The National Gardens are an ideal place for a morning stroll, a picnic or simply to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.

Explore the Monastiraki district

Monastiraki is one of Athens’ liveliest and most colorful neighborhoods, famous for its flea market, narrow streets and vibrant squares. This district is a fascinating blend of history and modernity, where ancient remains rub shoulders with contemporary boutiques and trendy cafés. The Monastiraki flea market is a treasure trove for shoppers, offering antiques, souvenirs, clothing and much more. Don’t miss Monastiraki Square with its Ottoman mosque and Byzantine church, as well as Hadrian’s Library and the nearby Ancient Agora.

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as the Kallimarmaro, is an impressive and unique historical monument. Built entirely of white marble, this ancient stadium was renovated to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. With a capacity of 50,000 spectators, it is still used today for sporting and cultural events. A visit to the stadium will allow you to discover its fascinating history, remarkable architecture and appreciate the importance of sport in Greek culture. Visitors can also climb up to the upper bleachers for a breathtaking view of the stadium and the city.

A taste of Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine is renowned for its delicious and varied Mediterranean flavors, and no visit to Athens would be complete without sampling its traditional dishes. Local tavernas offer an authentic culinary experience, where you can sample specialties such as moussaka, souvlaki, dolmades, and of course, the famous tzatziki. Accompanied by local wines or ouzo, Greek meals are often shared with family and friends in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Many tavernas in Athens also offer evening entertainment with traditional music and dance, adding a festive touch to your dining experience.

Take an excursion to Cape Sounion

Located some 70 kilometers south of Athens, Cape Sounion is a spectacular site offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Dominated by the majestic Temple of Poseidon, this rocky promontory is a place steeped in mythology and history. Built in the 5th century B.C., the temple is dedicated to the god of the sea and offers an idyllic setting for watching the sun set. An excursion to Cape Sounion is an excellent opportunity to escape the city and discover one of Greece’s most impressive coastal landscapes. The drive along the Athenian coast is also an experience in itself, with panoramic views and possible stops in charming seaside villages.