Athens is a thrilling mix of ancient wonders and contemporary allure. Many visitors begin with the legendary Acropolis, but there’s so much more to discover when planning what to do in Athens. Beneath the marble ruins and busy streets, the city’s heartbeat thrives in vibrant neighbourhoods, timeless tavernas, and a cultural calendar bursting with events. As someone who grew up strolling these very roads, here are suggestions that combine classic sights with a few local secrets you won’t find in every guidebook.
Start with the Classics
The undisputed Athens landmark is the Acropolis, crowned by the iconic Parthenon. It’s best explored first thing in the morning when the light is soft and the queues are short. The early start also helps you beat the Athenian sun, which can be unforgiving in summer, so bring a hat and reusable water bottle. Steep yourself in millennia of history, wandering among the Doric columns that once symbolised the golden age of ancient Greece.
'Acropolis' - Attribution: BPPriceAfter taking in those marble masterpieces, continue downhill to the Ancient Agora. This was the hub of political and commercial life in classical times, where philosophers like Socrates and Plato once conversed in open-air colonnades. It’s a spellbinding place to walk around for about an hour or two, depending on your curiosity.
To extend your classical exploration, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Panathenaic Stadium are within easy reach. The temple ruins are most dramatic at dusk, and the all-marble stadium offers a taste of modern Olympic history.
'Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens' - Attribution: Following HadrianDive into Neighbourhood Life
Athenian neighbourhoods each carry their own personality, and exploring them is one of the most rewarding things to do in Athens. Plaka sits at the foot of the Acropolis, filled with neoclassical architecture and winding alleys. It’s crowded but magical, especially in the late afternoon, once day-trippers have retreated.
'Plaka (Athens, Greece)' - Attribution: psyberartistFor a more bohemian vibe, Monastiraki offers antique shops, street food, and local artisans selling everything from handmade sandals to quirky souvenirs. The Sunday flea market is a lively spectacle, but be prepared for throngs of bargain-hunters.
'Acropolis of Athens from Monastiraki' - Attribution: TerrazzoNight-time sees Athens come alive in a swirl of music and dancing, particularly in districts like Gazi and Psiri, where live music, craft cocktail bars, and edgy street art reign supreme.
'Nightlife, Athens, Greece' - Attribution: BratecomAthens Off the Beaten Path
One lesser-known gem in the city is the network of open-air cinemas scattered around Athens. Often overlooked by guidebooks that focus on Athens landmarks, these seasonal venues hold a special place in locals’ hearts. Watching a classic film at Cine Thission, with the Acropolis beautifully lit in the background, or at Cine Paris in Plaka, surrounded by old-world charm, offers a magical way to experience Athenian nightlife. Arrive early to secure a good seat, and don’t forget a light jacket for cooler evenings or a cushion for extra comfort on traditional cinema chairs.
Another hidden treasure is the labyrinthine backstreets of Anafiotika, a tiny island-like neighbourhood tucked beneath the Acropolis. Its whitewashed houses, cobblestone alleys, and vibrant bougainvillea create a tranquil escape far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle. Take a walk here in the early morning or late afternoon for the softest light and quieter paths, and wear comfortable shoes to navigate its uneven terrain with ease.
'Anafiotika in Athens' - Attribution: pantelispanMuseums and More
History lovers can spend days among the city’s museums. The Acropolis Museum brims with artefacts from the sacred hill itself, while the National Archaeological Museum is famed for treasures spanning prehistoric times to late antiquity. For a lesser-known cultural gem, the Museum of Cycladic Art showcases a striking collection of minimalist figurines that influenced 20th-century artists like Picasso.
'National Archaeological Museum, Athens, Greece' - Attribution: Tilemahos EfthimiadisIf your time is limited, you might wonder how to organise your days. Our travellers’ guides City Break: What to Do in 3 Days and What to Do in 5 Days will help map out an itinerary that balances museums, leisurely meals, and iconic sites.
Dining and Street Food
Greek cuisine is worth a trip on its own. A typical day might start with a koulouri (sesame bread ring) and a Greek coffee at a local kafeneio, followed by a hearty lunch of moussaka or souvlaki. A favourite of mine is strolling through the Central Municipal Athens Market for fresh produce, spices, and endless chatter among local vendors. Traditional sweets such as loukoumades (honey-drizzled doughnuts) are beloved treats, best found near Monastiraki after a meander through the market stalls. In the late evening, tuck into fresh seafood or shared meze at a tucked-away tavern. With its rich culinary traditions and diverse dining scene, Athens offers countless opportunities to indulge in its gastronomic delights.
'Gyros - the best takeaway food on the planet - thank you Greece! #upsticksandgo #lunch #athens #gryos #takeawayfood #foodporn #delicious #greece #travel #traveladventures #travellingtheworld #michfrost' - Attribution: UpSticksNGoDay Trips and Relaxation
For a refreshing break from the bustling city, Athens offers access to golden beaches and laid-back coastal escapes. The Athens Riviera, a string of beautiful seaside suburbs, combines the charm of Mediterranean living with stunning vistas. You’ll find the vibrant energy of Glyfada Beach, perfect for those who love a mix of lively crowds and great dining, alongside the tranquil shores of Vouliagmeni Beach, where you can enjoy sunbathing and swimming. Nearby, the famed Lake Vouliagmeni offers a completely different experience with its natural thermal waters, fed by underground springs, creating a serene oasis perfect for relaxation and wellness.
'P9089240' - Attribution: taverIf you’re ready to venture further afield, Athens is the perfect base for exploring some of Greece’s most celebrated landmarks. Stand among the ancient ruins of Delphi, marvel at the sky-high monasteries of Meteora, or watch the sun set over the Aegean from the majestic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. For more inspiration, we’ve compiled a detailed guide to day trips you can take from Athens, full of ideas to help you make the most of your journey.
Making It Your Own
From sampling sweet loukoumades at a centuries-old pastry shop to cheering at an open-air theatre performance, Athens always finds a way to captivate each visitor. Though the ancient ruins and monumental architecture are a major draw, it’s the city’s warmth, creativity, and everyday rhythms that make Athens feel like home to those who explore deeply.
Whenever someone wonders about what to do in Athens, it’s not just about ticking off ancient sites. It’s about slowing down in a neighbourhood café, discovering a tucked-away cultural gem, and embracing the spontaneous energy that defines Greece’s capital. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always a new memory waiting to be made here.