Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilisation and a city teeming with ancient wonders and vibrant modern life! From exploring iconic landmarks like the Acropolis to indulging in excellent Greek cuisine, this guide will highlight the 11 Best things to do in Athens in 2025.

Discover hidden gems, immerse yourself in local traditions, and make the most of your trip to this captivating city. Ready to embark on an adventure? Let’s dive into the best Athens has to offer!

Athens offers a wealth of exciting experiences that make choosing where to begin challenging. Yet, too often, visitors spend just a day or two here before embarking on a journey to the enchanting Greek Islands. Use my 11 Best Things To Do in Athens list to inspire your trip to Athens, no matter how long you stay.

You Can’t Visit Athens Without Trying a Classic Gyro!

When you’re in Athens, trying a classic gyro is an absolute must. These mouthwatering wraps are available all over the city, turning the pursuit of the best gyro into an exciting culinary adventure for any food lover.

A gyro combines tender chicken or lamb, crispy French fries, fresh onions, and juicy tomatoes perfectly wrapped in soft pita bread. You can also opt for a different style of open-faced on a plate.

These hearty portions are ideal for refuelling after a day of exploring, ensuring you’re energised for whatever comes next. Don’t miss out on this iconic dish during your visit!

1. Meat the Greek: Located on Fokionos Street, this spot is known for its high-quality gyros, made fresh daily. It also offers veggie and vegan options, including a delicious falafel-filled wrap.
2. Victory Cafe: Situated in the heart of Athens, Victory Cafe offers a cosy atmosphere and some of the best gyros in town
3. Head to a traditional Greek taverna, Athen is home to some of the best.

The Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is undoubtedly the highlight of Athens and a must-visit for anyone in the city. However, you might need your knee braces, as it was a very steep walk from my hotel.

Its immense popularity makes it a hotspot for visitors, including those arriving from cruise ships. To truly enjoy the experience, arrive early—the archaeological site opens at 8 am, while cruise passengers typically arrive around 10 am.

While many flock to the Acropolis to admire the Parthenon, there’s much more to explore on the hill. Don’t miss the chance to see the Erechtheion, the Arrhephorion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, each offering a unique glimpse into ancient history.

Get tickets from the official website

Opening Times.

April 1 to October 31: 8 am to 8 pm

November 1 to March 31: 8 am to 5 pm

Little Kook is famous for its extravagant decorations, vibrant colours, and themed installations that change annually. When I was there, it was festively adorned for Halloween.
Little KooK is mainly a dessert café, but its incredible decor stands out.

It’s undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable places in Athens, second only to the Acropolis! The best time to visit is at night when the atmosphere is enchanting.

Athens is a dynamic city brimming with history and culture. It proudly showcases a vibrant and eclectic nightlife scene—perfect for bar-hopping enthusiasts. Furthermore, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to rooftop bars.

As the sun sets, head to Monastiraki Square, where you’ll find half a dozen rooftop bars for a better view. The streets pulse with energy, and diverse bars are present, each with its distinct charm and atmosphere.

Start your night in the trendy neighbourhood of Psiri, renowned for its bohemian vibe and stylish bars. Don’t miss Six D.O.G.S, an urban oasis that seamlessly blends a bar, café, and cultural hub. For an exceptional experience, visit The Clumsies, consistently ranked among the world’s best bars, where expertly crafted cocktails await.

Brettos Bar in Plaka is a must-see if you prefer a more relaxed setting. It is famous for its colourful bottles and homemade spirits. For those seeking stunning views, A for Athens offers breathtaking panoramas of the Acropolis while you indulge in innovative cocktails.

At the foot of the Acropolis lies The Plaka, Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood, renowned for its exceptional shopping experience. As you wander through the charming, narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll uncover a vibrant array of shops that seamlessly blend traditional Greek charm with modern retail offerings.

Begin your shopping adventure by exploring the unique boutiques and artisanal stores. From exquisite handmade jewellery and local crafts to fashionable clothing and chic accessories, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to explore the numerous souvenir shops, where you can acquire stunning ceramics, olive wood creations, and iconic evil eye charms.

One of the top free attractions in Athens is the Changing of the Guard. To experience this weekly event, you must be in Athens on a Sunday. The ceremony occurs at the Parliament Building in Syntagma at 11:00 am and is entirely free to watch.

Although the guards change hourly, the Sunday ceremony at 11:00 am is particularly special. There are more guards than usual, all dressed in traditional Greek uniforms, and the ceremony is more elaborate and captivating.

Indulging in loukoumades is an absolute must for any food lover visiting Athens. These Greek doughnuts are deep-fried to a perfect golden hue, generously drizzled with honey, sprinkled with cinnamon, and often topped with crunchy crushed walnuts or sesame seeds.

Loukoumades boast a rich history that dates back to ancient times, making them a delicious part of Greece’s culinary heritage. For the ultimate authentic experience, head to Krasopoulio tou Kokkora in the vibrant Plaka district, where you can savour freshly made loukoumades in a charming atmosphere.

Alternatively, don’t miss Lukumades in the Monastiraki neighbourhood. They are renowned for their modern twist on this beloved classic, which includes tempting toppings like chocolate sauce and ice cream.
Embrace the contrast of crispy exteriors and soft, airy interiors as you wander through the city.

Embark on an unforgettable walking food tour in Athens, where each step is a tantalising journey through the city’s rich history and vibrant culture! This isn’t just about tasting delicious food—it’s about diving headfirst into the heart of Athens’ culinary traditions, all guided by passionate experts.

As you uncover the fascinating origins of iconic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava, prepare to be amazed. You’ll discover the treasures of local ingredients and hear the captivating stories that make each eatery a unique gem.

By the end of this culinary adventure, you’ll have developed a newfound appreciation for Athens’ dynamic food scene and leave with a heart—and palate—completely satisfied! Get ready to indulge in an experience with flavours that will linger long after the tour is over! 🍽️

The Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is a historical and architectural marvel in Athens that holds a significant place in ancient and modern sports history. Originally constructed in 330 BCE, it was primarily used for the Panathenaic Games, a religious and athletic festival held in honour of the goddess Athena.

The stadium, made entirely of white Pentelic marble, was refurbished in its current form by Herodes Atticus in 144 CE. It is one of the few stadiums built entirely of marble.

Nothing is better than to sit in the 50,000-capacity marble stands and imagine the roar of the ancient crowds that once filled this magnificent stadium.

There’s something truly enchanting about wandering through the heart of Athens! Each turn reveals a little gem waiting to be discovered. You can start your adventure on foot by visiting the iconic Acropolis and charming Plaka.

From there, stroll over to Monastiraki Square at the foot of the Acropolis, then walk through the lively Psirri district and down Ermou Street. It’s a great way to finish your day in the stylish Kolonaki area.
Exploring Athens without a map lets you experience the city authentically, where every unplanned detour leads to unexpected encounters and unforgettable memories.

11 Acropolis Museum

I could not decide whether to visit before or after climbing the hill. I don’t think it matters as long as you go. The Acropolis Museum is located at the foot of the Acropolis. It houses a stunning collection of ancient artefacts and exhibits spanning several centuries of Greek history.

As you wander through its modern, airy spaces, you encounter sculptures, friezes, and everyday objects that bring the ancient world to life. The glass floors offer a unique perspective, allowing you to see the excavations beneath.

Athens is an ideal city for exploration on a two-day weekend trip, allowing you to see all the main highlights quickly. However, extending your visit to three days opens up the opportunity for a memorable day trip by ferry to one of the nearby islands.

How to Get Around Athens

The easiest way to travel from the airport is by metro, which connects you directly to Monastiraki Square.

The best, most straightforward way to explore Athens is to walk. Most sights you’ll see in two or three days are centrally located. One of the most efficient ways to navigate Athens is to use Google Maps.

Where to Stay in Athens

Staying in a central location in Athens offers numerous benefits that greatly enhance your visit. With easy access to major attractions like the Acropolis, efficient public transportation options, and a vibrant atmosphere, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the city’s rich history and culture.

Central areas are brimming with dining and shopping opportunities, ensuring you experience the best Greek cuisine and local crafts. Additionally, these neighbourhoods are safer.

Many visitors flock to Athens in summer, drawn by the sunny weather. Due to its popularity, book a few weeks in advance if you plan to visit during the high season. To avoid the intense heat, consider travelling in early summer (May or June) or late summer (September or October). These times offer a more comfortable climate for exploring the city. I went in late September, and the weather was great.

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