Top 10 Things to do in Athens

The ancient city of Athens is full of things to do, and we want to show you where to spend your time. This city will leave you speechless at every corner, and will more than satisfy your thirst for history and culture.

雅典 is easily one of our favourite destinations, and we love how much there is to see and do here. It’s where democracy was founded, and it’s where some of the world’s most delicious recipes originate. While the summers are hot, the winters are just as great, although not warm enough for a swim. It’s is a popular destination for travellers of all types, and we want to show you the top 10 things to do in Athens!

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1. Acropolis & The Agora

的 Acropolis overlooks the city, and is easily one of the top things to do in Athens. There are other ancient citadels similar to this one around Greece, but this is deemed the most important. It houses many important cultural sights such as the Parthenon and the Agora (the ancient marketplace). Don’t miss the National Archaeological Museum to gain a full perspective on it’s history.

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2. Technopolis – Gazi

Situated in the city’s old gas works, Technopolis is an industrial museum. You’ll find the Gazi area very close to the Acropolis, and a short walk from the Kerameikos ruins. The building hosts all sorts of concerts, events, and 节日 so make sure you take a look at their schedule for when you’re in town, it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Athens!

3. Kerameikos

While you’re in the area Kerameikos is also worth a visit. Located to the North West of the Acropolis Kerameikos was the potter’s area of the city. In fact, the modern English word ‘ceramic’ comes from here! It’s also a pretty great place to snap some incredible shots for Instagram.

4. Cine Psiri

Want to escape a hot summer evening in Athens? Join the hosts of locals and tourists that flood onto the streets of Psiri, the old town centre of Athens, and into one of the many open air summer cinemas that crop up all around. The films are not generally the newest, but the atmosphere is second to none and you’ll usually have a choice of drinks and snacks with which to enjoy the movie!

5. Filopappos Hill

An ancient Greek monument built to commemorate the death of Prince Philopappos sits on top of the Filopappos Hill. Only two thirds of the facade remains, but major restoration work was carried out in 1899 to preserve as much as possible of this iconic monument.

6. Lake Vouliagmeni

Just to the south of the city sits Lake Vouliagmeni and one of the most exclusive areas of Athens. A visit here will make you and see why. The water of the lake is crystal clear and the views are to die for. In true Greek fashion, there’s plenty of ruins to get to grips with while you’re here too!

7. Temple of Olympian Zeus

South-west of the Acropolis, construction of the Temple of Zeus began in the 6th Century BC. For some centuries, this was the biggest and most important temple in the ancient world. Second to the Acropolis, it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Athens and one of the top things to do here.

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8. Lykavittos Hill

A limestone crop rising 277m above sea level and the city below, Lyklavittos hill is THE best place to get a view of Athens at night. If you can’t manage the hike or don’t want to put in the effort, There’s a funicular railway system built in which takes you right to the top in just 10 minutes.

9. Monastiraki

Monastiraki is one of the major shopping districts of the city, and is great for bargain hunters. It hosts some of the city’s best independent and boutique stores, and you won’t be able to help but get lost in the variety of shops and stalls. The Central Market also has some of the city’s best fresh produce, so if you’re hungry, it’ll stop here!

Photo by David T on Unsplash

10. Changing of the Guard (Tomb of the Unknown Soldier)

Our last tip on the top things to do in Athens is to see the Changing of the Guard. This special military unit is tasked with guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the official switch occurs every Sunday at 11am. Lots of people come to watch the ceremony, and we think you should, too!