Athens - Top Things To Do
WATCH THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD
The Evzones are an elite army unit who guard the Monument of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek Parliament. The changing of the guard takes place every hour and involves two incoming and two outgoing sentries, along with a supervising army officer. A ceremonial changing of the guard occurs every Sunday at 11 a.m. and features a larger troop of guards, a marching band, and the official Evzone uniform.
DISCOVER PLAKA, MONASTIRAKI & ANAFIOTIKA
Head to Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, now home to many excellent restaurants and gift shops. Its picturesque pedestrian streets, traditional houses, and old world charm make it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to explore Anafiotika, a Cycladic-inspired village nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Directly adjacent to Plaka is the Monastiraki district, where you can browse the bustling flea market open daily.
ENJOY SOME GREAT SHOPPING
Visit the Kolonaki district, known for its upscale shops, cafés, and chic Athenian lifestyle. Window (or actual) shopping along Skoufa, Tsakalof, Patriarchou Ioakim, Voukourestiou, and Valaoritou streets is a pleasure—if not for the shopping, then to experience the modern Athenian vibe. The centrally located Attica Mall, opened in 2005 at the intersection of Panepistimiou and Voukourestiou Streets, is a fashionable shopping destination. Ermou Street, near Syntagma Square, also offers a great retail experience.
VISIT THE TEMPLE OF POSEIDON
Take a day trip to the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Built around 444–440 BC, the temple is not only a significant archaeological site but also offers breathtaking views of the sea and sunset.
EXPERIENCE THE ATHENS FESTIVAL
If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss the Athens Festival, featuring live performances of music, art, and theater at various venues across the city. Especially unforgettable are the shows held at the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
WATCH A MOVIE UNDER THE STARS
If you’re in Athens during summer, watching a movie under the evening sky is a must! The city is dotted with open-air cinemas, but Cine Thisio and Cine Paris are favorites due to their stunning views of the Acropolis.
DISCOVER ATHENS’ STREET ART
Explore Athens’ thriving street art scene, where creative graffiti and murals bring color to the city’s concrete buildings. Don’t miss the iconic mural by Alexandros Vasmoulakis in Psyrri Square—an eclectic blend of collage, photography, paint, and digital media.
EXPLORE THE CITY’S TRENDIEST NEIGHBORHOODS
Discover some of Athens’ trendiest neighborhoods and join the locals for a night out. Psyri, Gazi, Koukaki, and Plateia Agias Irinis are perfect for daytime exploration and even better for evening bites and drinks.
VISIT THE NATIONAL GARDEN
Dating back to 1838, the National Garden (formerly the Royal Garden) is a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Athens. Escape the city bustle and admire the mature trees, rare plants, duck ponds, conservatory, and historic monuments. You’ll also find a children’s library and a traditional café within its grounds.
HAVE FUN AT FLISVOS MARINA
More than just a destination for mega-yachts, the Flisvos Marina is also home to numerous restaurants, cafés, and a children’s playground. Located just outside the city center, it’s an ideal option for a leisurely afternoon or evening walk.
DISCOVER TECHNOPOLIS
Located in a former gasworks, Technopolis is a cultural hub hosting concerts, art performances, children’s programs, and temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the Gas Museum, one of the few remaining examples of Athens’ industrial heritage.
HIKE THE HILLS OF ATHENS
For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, hike up Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens—especially romantic at sunset. Also worth exploring are the hills of Areopagus, Pnyx, and Filopappou, each offering spectacular views and historical significance.
VISIT THE CENTRAL FOOD MARKET
Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and tastes of Athens’ Central Food Market, also known as Varvakeios Agora. Browse stalls filled with fresh fish, seafood, meats, and produce. The surrounding area also offers shops selling traditional delicacies, olives, spices, and gourmet treats.
DISCOVER KIFISIA
Take a half-day trip to Kifisia, one of Athens’ oldest and most elegant suburbs. Its elevation and abundant greenery make it a cool, refreshing escape from the city center. Kifisia is known for its boutique shopping, stylish cafés, lively bars, and fine dining.
EXPLORE THE ATHENIAN RIVIERA
Athens Seaside
The Athenian Riviera offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere and several sandy beaches with well-organized venues. Ask your concierge for recommendations based on your style and beach preferences.
Location: From Flisvos to Vouliagmeni
Vouliagmeni Lake
An idyllic setting with saline waters continuously replenished by the sea and underground thermal springs. Enjoy a unique, natural thermal spa experience—open year-round.
Location: Vouliagmeni
Piraeus Seaside Area
Stroll along the Pasalimani promenade, where colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor and the waterfront is lined with lively restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Location: Piraeus
