Ultimate Athens Bucketlist: Top Things to Do in Athens
When people think of Athens, they probably think of the Acropolis, but there is so much more to the city than just this famous icon.
There are endless historical sites and neighborhoods to explore in Athens. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Athens for a whole semester, so I gathered all of my favorite places to go and things to do to share them with you.
Here is my ultimate bucket list of things to do in Athens!
Historical Sights
1. Archeological Museum
This museum is one of the most famous in Greece due to its large collection of ancient artifacts from archeological sites all over Greece. I recommend setting aside 2-3 hours to explore all of the exhibits in the museum.
Cost to enter: Nov-Mar 6€  |  Apr-Oct 12€
2. Ancient Agora
The agora was the heart of ancient Athens where political, social, and cultural activities took place in the 2nd century B.C. Here you will find ruins, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the ancient Agora Museum. This is a lovely place to stroll and take in the history of Athens.
Cost to enter: Nov-Mar 5€  |  Apr-Oct 10€
3. Panathenaic Stadium
This is the home of the very first Olympics in 1896, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.
This stadium is a unique monument that serves as a symbol of the heritage of sports in Greek culture. It is very accessible from the street, and located right next to the national garden. You can purchase tickets to go inside and get acquainted with the history of the stadium.
4. National Garden
The national garden is a great place to walk around some greenery and get away from the cars in the city streets. It’s like the Central Park of Athens, with many great picnic spots and even a small zoo in the middle.
5. Parthenon
The Parthenon is the iconic ancient structure that sits at the top of the Acropolis.
Athens is very well known for this piece of history, and of course you have to go see it when you’re in Greece! The walk to the top is short and the view is amazing. Be sure to check out the museum afterwards to learn about the ancient story of the Parthenon.
Reserve your spot with an e-ticket here!
6. Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis museum holds the important archeological findings from the Acropolis.
This is where you can learn about the history of the Acropolis and its importance in Greek history and mythology. After exploring the museum, check out the gift shop and have a lunch break at the cafe. The views are just great!
Get your tickets ahead here!
7. National Art Gallery
If you’re into art museums, add this spot to your list. The National Art Gallery holds over 20,000 Greek and European artworks from the 16th to 20th centuries. It is considered the most important venue for art history in Greece!
8. Changing of the Guards
Every hour in front of the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma, the famous changing of the guards occurs.
People gather here to watch the soldiers of the Presidential Guard carry out their historical and honorable roles. The guards stand perfectly still outside of Parliament for one hour before switching with other soldiers. The process of the changing guards is conducted in pairs so the moves of each soldier can be perfectly coordinated.
Nearby
More Things To Do Downtown
1. Sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus hill is the highest point in all of Athens with the most incredible 360 views of the city.
The Acropolis actually looks kind of small from up here! You can reach the top by walking, taxi, or the cable car up to enjoy the views and a dinner or drink. Though it can be packed with tourists, I think this spot has the best sunset view.
2. Stroll Anafiotika
Anafiotika is Athens’ oldest neighborhood located at the foot of the Acropolis.
 These homes and streets date back to the 1840’s, resembling the streets of the Greek islands. This neighborhood is a great place to take a relaxing stroll, and it’s quieter because many tourists don’t know about it.
3. See The Plaka Stairs
Plaka is a slightly quieter area than the Monastiraki square where you can have a more relaxing dinner. There are beautiful restaurants along the Plaka stairs, perfect for a romantic date. Even if you’re not looking to have dinner, the Plaka stairs are a beautiful sight to see.
4. Unwind at a Local Cafe
Coffee is a very significant part of Greek culture. In Greece, coffee is an experience, and a chance to socialize with friends. The atmosphere in the local coffee shops is relaxing and the perfect place to unwind or even get some work done.
I recommend checking out the Underdog, it was one of my favorites!
5. Gyros in the Street
As you explore the city, you will see many people strolling around while eating a gyro, one of the most classic Greek street foods.
You can get one made for you in a minute at Bairaktaris. I had gyros from places all over Athens, and I believe they have the best ones.
6. Areopagus and philopappos
If you’re looking for a more accessible hill with an overlook, take walk up Areopagus or Philopappos Hill. These are two smaller hills beside the Acropolis that still have stunning views from the top.
7. Relax on a Rooftop
My absolute favorite thing to do in downtown Athens is take in nighttime views of the Acropolis and the bustling city below from the rooftops.
Nothing beats a delicious dinner with a view on a beautiful evening, and the atmosphere is unmatched! I enjoyed drinks at 360 Cocktail Bar the most, and the best atmosphere at Hyper Astrobar.
Shopping
1. Ermou Street
Ermou street is the most famous shopping street in the city, and definitely the most crowded.
This street connects Monastiraki and Syntagma and is lined with all of your favorite European clothing brands. If you’re a shopper, you will absolutely find some nice clothing to bring back home with you.
2. Vintage Shops
You will not find a lot of thrift stores in Athens, but there are a few vintage clothing stores if that is more your style. They are not always easy to find, but Kilo Shop is one of the well known vintage stores in town. Rats and Bloodie Bee are also good options.
3. Monastiraki flea Market
The flea market is where you will find a mix of local shops, touristy souvenir shops, and antiques. This area has the best collection of souvenirs and gifts. It is open from 10am – 10pm daily and is located just outside of the Monastiraki station.
Athens is a bustling city built around so much history and culture.
I enjoyed every moment of my time here and did my best to experience everything there was to see in Athens. While you may only have a few days to spend in Athens, I hope you can experience the best of the city and check off lots of these items from your Athens bucket list.
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