Walking through the city of Athens, you’ll notice how history mixes with the modern lifestyle. As Greece’s capital, Athens has a lot to offer to both its residents as well as its tourists. This bustling city is full of history as well as trendy sights. With a population of 3.8 million people, it’s the 6th most populous capital city in the EU - and it definitely has a lot to offer for it.
1. Visit Athens’ best museums
Acropolis Museum
Not to be confused with the actual Acropolis! The Acropolis Museum is located at the base of Athen’s most popular attraction. It was built in 1976, with the mission to preserve some of Greece’s most ancient artifcats. Featuring an exhibition space of over 14,000 square meters, the Acropolis Museum presents centuries worth of Greek history all under one roof.
Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece
Benaki Museum
If you want to learn about all things Greek, the Benaki Museum is the place to be. Founded in 1930, the museum focuses on telling the story of Greek culture in all its glory. The museum has plenty of collections as well as extra ehibitions and events - all to satisfy your passion about Greek history.
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Address: Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece
National Archaeological Museum
Crowned as the world’s greatest museum, the National Archaeological Museum is the place to be if you’re looking to check out some of the oldest Greek artifacts. The Museum is organised into seven collections, some of which include more historic information about the Greek islands such as Santorini.
Address: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
Museum of Cycladic Art
Dedicated to the history of Greek art, this museum focuses on showcasing art from the 3rd millennium BC. Along with exhibitions, it features workshops and events, all dedicated to Greek art.
Address: Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece
2. Take in historical locations
Acropolis
There’s just something special about the Acropolis. Perhaps it’s the fact that it’s one of the best pieces of historical architecture you’ll ever see. Or maybe it all comes from the name - ‘High City’. Either way, this stunning ancient citadel is well worth your visit!
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Ancient Agora of Athens
The Ancient Agora was once used as a central meeting space. Nowadays, it’s one of Athen’s most memorable locations. Within the agora you can find plenty of historical buildings as well as monuments that have been around for hundreds of centuries.
Temple of Hephaestus
The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the most well-preserved Greek temples. Its impressive history dates back to seventh century! It was left in ruins to serve as a reminder of the 492 BC battle between the Greek and the Persians. In case you’re wondering, the Greek won.
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3. Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine
Mana’s Kouzina-Kouzina
The name is simple - mother’s kitchen. But the food comes from a mother’s heart. The restaurant is all about traditional Greek cuisine, featuring classic as well as forgotten Greek recipes.
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Address: Aiolou 27, Athina 105 51, Greece
Kapetan Mixalis
This small family-owned Greek restaurant and cafe has been around since the 1960s. Their produce is freshly picked every single morning from the local market, and their food is a tribute to traditional Greek meals, inspired by the Greek grandmother’s kitchen.
Address: Fidiou 3, Athina 106 78, Greece
Lukumades
If there is one thing you absolutely have to try in Athens, it is Lukumades. Fried dough with honey and cinnamon? Yes please! And trying it at an authentic place that knows the best secret recipes to make this delicious dessert is even better!
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Address: Aiolou 21, Athina 105 51, Greece
Liondi
You can find plenty of traditional Greek restaurants in Athens, but Liondi also features some of the most amazing customer service ever. Come back a couple of times, and you’re guaranteed to feel like a family member!
Address: Makrigianni 19, Athina 117 42, Greece
4. Browse the Central Market
The Central Market is the place to be if you’re looking to mingle with the locals and taste some of the freshest produce in the city. It’s open from Monday to Saturday!
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5. Check out Instagrammable locations
The Plaka
The Plaka might be one of Athens’ oldest areas, but it’s also one of the prettiest. No matter the season, the colorful streets are a perfect opportunity for spicing up your Instagram feed!
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Anafiotika
This hidden picturesque village is located underneath the Acropolis. Stroll around the rocky terrain that was transformed into a residential area back in 1841!
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Mount Lycabettus
If you’re looking for a birdseye view of the entire city, you absolutely have to visit this popular tourist destination!
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And that's it for our top 5 things to do in Athens! Do you have any other suggestions? Let us know in the comments!
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