21 Important Things to do in Athens You Can’t Leave Greece Without Doing

This post is all about things to do in Athens Greece.

It’s no secret that Athens is one of the most exciting cities in the world – and has been for thousands of years.

This ancient city happens to be the oldest capital in all of Europe (even older than Rome!)

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In the months I’ve spent in Athens, I’ve often found travelers’ most common mistake is only booking 1-2 days.

Athens is big, and it feels like every corner you turn you’re greeted with a historical landmark.

Here are 21 things to do in Athens Greece.

Don’t forget to print your FREE Athens Checklist Printable.

My Athens Essentials

Top Things to do in Athens Greece

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1. Acropolis

One of the most fascinating landmarks of Athens is, of course, the Acropolis.

The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky complex consisting of several buildings of great historical significance. The most complete building still standing today is the famous Parthenon.

This structure sits high in the middle of Athens, dominating the city and illuminating the night.

Be sure to make a visit to the Acropolis your top priority in Athens. Check out this Skip the Line Acropolis tour with a licensed archaeologist.

2. Tour the Ancient Agora of Athens

There are two Agoras of Athens – the Ancient and the Roman.

Once a thriving marketplace for Athenians, the Ancient Agora is a predominant piece of Athens history.

This complex includes the monumental Temple of Hephaestus, Stoa of Attalos, and a small museum.

Read my in-depth post on the Ancient Agora here

3. Panathenaic Stadium

Did you know the only stadium in the world built completely of marble resides in Athens? Only representing the most majestic theatrical experience for Athenians, this stadium is one of a kind.

4. Watch the Sunset on Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus hill offers one of the best views in the city.

To get to the top of Lycabettus, you can either climb the 200 steps to the top or take the cable car.

5. Take a Day trip to the Temple of Poseidon

Visit the temple dedicated to the “Master of the Sea”. Located on Cape Sounion, it’s just an hour from the center of Athens. This sunset tour includes full roundtrip transportation from the city.

6. See the Roman Agora

Constructed in the 1st century BC, the Roman Agora is another fascinating historical compound to see in Athens. Admire the gate of Athena from afar or pay 2 euros to take a stroll through the agora.

7. Acropolis Museum

After seeing the Acropolis, learn more about the history of the impressive structure at the Acropolis Museum.

Entrance to the museum is 5-10 euros. Additionally, it’s included in many Athens packages and tours like this guided tour here.

8. Anafiotika

Anafiotika is the charming neighborhood in Plaka that shows off its island-like architecture. With its white-washed buildings, clay pots, and bright colors, it’s one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Athens.

This neighborhood also offers one of the best viewpoints of the city.

9. Walk around Psiri & Monastiraki

Psiri & Monastiraki district is one of the trendiest areas of Athens. Streets are lined with cute cafes, fun nightlife spots, and stunning rooftop bars.

10. Eat chocolate cake at Nancy’s Sweet Home

Since you’ll be in Monastiraki, head to Nancy’s Sweet Home and get in line for one of their famous chocolate cakes.

11. Take a Free Walking Tour

Free walking tours are the best way to get to a new city without spending a fortune. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers!

Click here to see the free walking tour I took.

12. Have a Cocktail at Clumsies

Rated one of the top 50 best bars in the world, The Clumsies is somewhere you must stop to have a drink.

I ordered a seasonal summer drink that came with a strip of sunscreen! Clumsies isn’t just any ordinary bar, it’s an experience.

13. Walk around Plaka

Plaka feels like a secret village in the center of Athens. Being the oldest neighborhood in the capital, a walk through the creaky whimsical streets beneath the Acropolis is a magical to experience.

14. Zappeion

The Zappeion is of the city center’s most well-known landmarks. Once used as the main fencing hall for the 1896 Olympics, the building is now repurposed for important meetings and ceremonies.

15. Stroll Through the Little Kook

Step into a fairy tale on one of the most unique streets in Athens! Little Kook is a completely themed street that changes themes every month. Not only is the street just decorated, but all the shops, cafes, and restaurants are too.

Some of my favorite themes have been Halloween, Christmas, Peter Pan, and Alice in Wonderland.

16. Visit the Archaeological Museum

Showcasing extensive artifacts from Roman, Egyptian, and Greek history, the Archaeological Museum is yet another museum in Athens that is considered one of the best in the world.

17. See Syntagma Square

Syntagma square is often considered the heart of Athens. It’s one of the most popular spots in the city for shopping, protests, and other public meetings.

18. Walk Through the National Gardens

After you’ve seen Syntagma, head over to the beautiful National Gardens. The entrance is free, and it’s a stunning oasis in the center of Athens.

19. Take Advantage of Athen’s Nightlife

What most people don’t know is Athens has a seriously amazing night scene.

S.I.X dogs is one of the most popular bars/clubs in the city. The venue transforms from bar to club depending on the day so be sure to check their schedule.

Other great bars are Juan Rodriguez, Barrett, and Handlebar.

20. Go to a Rooftop Bar

Athens is full of rooftop bars with a jaw-dropping view of the Acropolis.

Some of the best rooftop bars are A for Athens, 360 Cocktail Bar, and Couleur Locale.

21. Eat Traditional Greek Food

While Greece is full of beauty and history, I must say the best part of this country is the cuisine. Traditional Greek dishes are some of the tastiest in the world.

Don’t forget to try souvlaki, saganaki, a Greek salad, and wash it all down with Ouzo.

A few of my favorite restaurants are Bandiera, Oineas, and Avli.

Have a great trip to Athens and be sure to save this post for your future trip to Greece!

Planning your wardrobe for Athens? Check out my post on the best outfits for Greece.