The Best Things to Do in Athens: A Complete Guide to the City

Athens is a city where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean energy. From iconic archaeological landmarks to vibrant neighbourhoods, rooftop bars, local markets, and golden-hour viewpoints, the Greek capital offers an unforgettable mix of culture, food, and timeless beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer escape, here are some of the best things to do in Athens.

1. Explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon

No trip to Athens is complete without standing at the top of the Acropolis. This ancient citadel towers over the city and offers stunning panoramic views.

Don’t miss seeing:

• The Parthenon
• The Temple of Athena Nike
• The Erechtheion and its famous Caryatids

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and strong sun.

Restaurants nearby that are highly reviewed:

• Yard Restaurant – A modern Greek restaurant just minutes from the Acropolis Museum.
• Liondi Traditional Greek Restaurant – Highly rated, authentic Greek flavours.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

Just a short walk from the Acropolis, this world-class museum beautifully showcases ancient artefacts recovered from the site. The glass floors, open architecture and detailed exhibitions make it easy to understand Athens’ past. There is also a Café inside the museum: Acropolis Museum Café & Restaurant which is famous for its terrace with incredible Acropolis views. Perfect for coffee, dessert or a light lunch.

3. Wander Through Plaka – The Old Town

Plaka is one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Athens. With its neoclassical houses, bougainvillaea-draped streets and cosy tavernas, it feels like a village within the city.

Top spots to explore:

• Anafiotika (the “island-style” area)
• Traditional Greek bakeries
• Small boutique shops

Highly reviewed cafés & restaurants in Plaka:

• Yiasemi: A cosy café-bistro with rooftop seating on the famous staircase.
• Anafiotika Café: Perfect for a refreshing drink while exploring the “island-style” houses.
• Taverna Saita: For a traditional Greek meal in a friendly, local atmosphere.

4. Discover Monastiraki Market

If you love shopping and street culture, Monastiraki is the place to be. This lively area is known for its flea market, artisanal shops and quirky souvenirs. You can spend hours exploring leather goods, antiques and handcrafted items.

Plus, the square is buzzing with restaurants, cafés and street vendors.

Some highly review places to eat or grab a cup of coffee:

• Café Avissinia: Traditional dishes with rooftop views of the Acropolis.
• Little Kook (Psiri area, 5 minute walk away): A magical, themed dessert café perfect for photos.
• Savvas Restaurant:Known for its delicious and affordable souvlaki.

5. Watch the Sunset from Lycabettus Hill

For one of the best views of Athens, climb or take the funicular up Lycabettus Hill.

At the top, you’ll find a charming chapel, panoramic viewpoints and a café/restaurant perfect for relaxing while the sun sets over the city. One restaurant that comes highly reviewed is Orizontes Lycabettus, a romantic restaurant right at the top, offering Mediterranean cuisine with unbeatable views.

6. Visit the Ancient Agora

Once the heart of social and political life in ancient Athens, the Agora is a must for history lovers. The well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos (now a museum) give you a real sense of what life was like thousands of years ago.

Nearby cafés that are highly rated:

• Thissio View Café: Serving coffee, fresh juices and light meals with a stunning Acropolis backdrop.
• Kafeneio Tou Thission: A classic Greek café-taverna perfect for relaxing after exploring.

7. Enjoy Authentic Greek Food

Greek cuisine is a huge part of the Athens experience.

Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Souvlaki and gyros
• Moussaka
• Fresh Greek salad
• Baklava

Here are a few places that come highly rated, for you to explore:

• Thanasis (Monastiraki): Famous for mouthwatering kebabs and gyros.
• Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani: A fantastic spot for cured meats, cheeses and meze plates.
• Diodos (Adrianou Street): Great traditional dishes with Acropolis views.

8. Explore the Hip Neighbourhood of Psiri

Psiri is known for its nightlife, creative street art and trendy restaurants. In the evening, the area comes to life with music, bars and outdoor dining.

It’s great for those looking to experience the modern, youthful side of Athens.

Cafés and restaurants that come recommended include:

• Nancy’s Sweet Home: Legendary desserts, especially the bougatsa and chocolate pie.
• Mavros Gatos: Modern Greek cuisine and stylish décor.
• Spiti Mas: A cosy, friendly spot for brunch and cocktails.

9. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This is one of the most important museums in the world, housing a vast collection of Greek antiquities.

From sculptures to gold jewellery and ancient pottery, it’s a deep dive into Greek history and mythology. The MUSEUM Café is a nice place to relax with a light snack or coffee before continuing your explorations.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Athenian Riviera

If you’re visiting in warmer months, the seaside is just a short tram or taxi ride away.

Some of the most popular spots include:

• Glyfada (shopping + beaches)
• Vouliagmeni (luxury beach clubs + Lake Vouliagmeni)
• Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon (iconic sunset view)

Some of the most popular restaurants include:

• Krabo Beach Restaurant (Vouliagmeni): Chic, beachfront dining with excellent seafood.
• Sardelaki Me Thea (Glyfada): A casual favourite for fish, meze and sunset views.
• Zoumis Beach Bar: For cocktails by the water.

11. Experience a Rooftop Bar with Acropolis Views

Athens has some incredible rooftop bars offering magical night-time views of the illuminated Parthenon. Areas like Monastiraki, Syntagma and Thissio have some of the best rooftops for cocktails with a view.

Some of the top choices include:

• 360 Cocktail Bar (Monastiraki): Trendy spot with dramatic Acropolis views.
• A for Athens Roof Garden: Stylish atmosphere and great cocktails.
• Couleur Locale: Hidden rooftop loved by locals, with great music and vibes.

Athens is a city that blends culture, cuisine, and character like nowhere else. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, wandering colourful neighbourhoods, or soaking up sunsets with a glass of Greek wine, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.