Essential Things to See & Do In Athens

Athens is a bustling city, full of unique experiences and things to do. And at the same time it invites a deep relaxation, a willingness to just linger on a sidewalk cafe, get lost in a museum, and simply soak in the atmosphere. But there are a few things Athens has to offer that are simply unmissable, and have a place on every visitor’s list. Here are the things you simply must do when in Athens:

Acropolis and Parthenon

One of the wonders of the world, to miss the Acropolis and Parthenon would be like going to Paris and not going to the Eiffel Tower. Plan a day to visit the Acropolis, tour the ancient sites and majestic temples, and experience the magnificent Parthenon. Experience the sheer grandeur of ancient Athens and see the city as the ancients did, and make sure to visit the Acropolis museum as an essential companion experience.

Erechtheum

While at the Acropolis and the Parthenon, take time to see the spectacular Erechtheum, another of the world’s most famous buildings. This incredible temple complex has some of the most beautiful columns of the Golden Age, crowned by the legendary Porch of the Caryatids. It is also a stunning spot from which to look down onto the city below and enjoy unparalleled views.

The Plaka

The oldest and most historic part of Athens is The Plaka, also known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods”, due to being in the slopes of the Acropolis. These narrow streets are closed to vehicle traffic and lined with small shops, cafes, museums, and archaeological sites. Once known as the Turkish Quarter, the Plaka contains a mosque built in 1458, as well as ancient monuments and architecture, along with international dining, street musicians, and welcoming gardens. The Plaka is a glimpse into life in Greek villages, and it’s easy to get lost exploring this enchanting neighborhood.

Ancient Agora

The Agora is as essential an experience as the Acropolis for insight into ancient Greek civic life, commerce, and worship. Just below the Acropolis, the agora was the physical and social center of Athens for centuries, and today the site is rich with archaeological finds, amazing ruins, and new explorations, as well as being a peaceful escape from the bustle of the rest of the city. Visit the museum first, because the agora itself doesn’t have a lot of signage or context for the buildings, sites, and plans.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

This incredible temple is just outside The Plaka, and is the largest ancient temple in Greece. The spectacular Corinthian columns are 17 meters high. A column that collapsed in 1852 has been allowed to remain on the ground, and it gives a welcome contrast for the size and scale of the 15 standing columns. The breathtaking scale of this temple makes it unmissable for those interested in history and architecture, and it’s central location makes it easy to visit.

Syntagma Square

The center of modern Athens is Syntagma Square. Syntagma Square is named for the constitution that was signed here, thus symbolically ending foreign rule of Greece and returning the country to autonomy in 1843. Since then, it has hosted nearly every national demonstration, celebration, and major event in the life of Athens. It isn’t just the psychological center of the city: it’s also the primary transit hub, and close to most of Athens’ major attractions, like the Plaka, the Acropolis, the Arch of Hadrian, and more. The metro station below the square is itself an archaeological museum, worth visiting alone. Athenians say that if you can find your way to Syntagma Square, you’ll never be lost in the city.

Panathenaic Stadium

Though built by the ancients, Panathenaic Stadium holds a special place in sports history. This original stadium, which dates to around 300 BC and was rebuilt in 144, has hosted several Olympics. More importantly, the stadium is where the Olympic flame starts on its journey to the nation hosting that year’s athletic contests. In ancient times, the stadium hosted a religious festival dedicated to the goddess Athena every four years. The current structure was restored in the 19th century for the first modern version of the Olympics Games after centuries of disuse. Panathenaic Stadium seats 50,000 spectators and is the largest stadium in the world made entirely of marble.

National Archaeological Museum

For visitors who love art exhibitions, there is no better place to visit in Greece than the National Archaeological Museum. Multiple collections can be found here from contemporary artists all the way back to antiquity. The museum also has a large collection of artwork dating back to the Neolithic Age. The collections include small vases, working tools, clay vases and other small artifacts that are some of the oldest archaeological finds dating back to the 7th millennium. Over thirty rooms, sculptures from every century can be viewed including ancient Kouroi Egyptian sculptures.

Athens is an incredible city for those who love history, culture, good weather, good food, and just enjoying yourself. But make sure you hit these essential sights in order to make the most of your visit and glimpse the past, present, and future of this timeless place.