Recent Searches
Clear
Things to do in Athens

Things to do in  Athens

The gateway to Greece

Athens is a historic wonderland that welcomes millions of visitors each year. The Acropolis, with its hilltop ruins and the Parthenon, is indisputably Athens’ top draw. The city's also the gateway to the island of Hydra and ancient Delphi. But don't be deceived by the Greek capital's antique status as the cradle of Western Civilization—it also boasts some of Europe’s best cuisine and nightlife.

Top 15 attractions in Athens

Acropolis

star-517,043
An archaeological wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the world's most instantly recognizable landmarks, the Acropolis is the star attraction of ancient Athens. Dramatically perched on a jagged clifftop—the so-called sacred rock of Athens—the ruins overlook the modern city and date back to as early as 510 BC.More

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Naós tou Olympíou Diós)

star-59,572
Athenian rulers began construction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus (Naós tou Olympíou Diós) in the sixth century BC. By the time Roman Emperor Hadrian completed it 600 years later, it was the largest temple in Greece, and its statue of Zeus—king of the gods of Mt. Olympus—was one of the largest in the world. The temple began to fall into ruin shortly after it was finished; today only 15 of its original 104 columns still stand and much of its marble has been recycled or stolen for other temples. Nonetheless, what remains is a truly impressive sight to see.More

Acropolis Museum (Museo Akropoleos)

star-59,600
An Athenian landmark and feat of contemporary architecture, the Acropolis Museum sits at the base of the Acropolis, with the ruins of an ancient settlement visible through its floor. The collection runs from pre-classical times to the Roman era, but fifth-century BC treasures are the focus, especially the Parthenon Frieze sculptures.More

Meteora

star-54,608
The towering vertical cliffs of Meteora have provided a protected place to pursue spiritual contemplation for centuries. The first hermit monks lived up in caves, but eventually 24 Byzantine monasteries were built (six function today) atop the imposing rock. Part natural wonder, part manmade marvel, the dramatic site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction in Greece.More

Olympic Stadium (OAKA)

star-58,735
Originally built in the 1980s for the European Athletics Championships, the Olympic Stadium (officially the Olympic Athletic Center of Athens “Spiros Louis” or OAKA) was remodeled by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava for the 2004 Olympics. The largest stadium in Greece, with 70,000 seats, the Olympic Stadium hosts events and concerts by major international acts such as U2 and Lady Gaga.More

Delphi

star-55,139
Delphi, with its remarkably preserved ruins dotted along the southern slopes of Mount Parnassus, is one of Greece’s most famous archaeological site. Dating back to the seventh century BC, the ancient city of Delphi is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to sites such as the Sacred Way, Stoa of the Athenians, polygonal wall, monument of Platea, and Temple of Apollo.More

Parthenon

star-510,752
The star of Athens postcards and arguably the most impressive of all the city’s ancient ruins, the Parthenon stands proud atop the sacred rock of Acropolis, high above the modern city.Built between 447 and 432 BC, the temple was dedicated to Greek goddess Athena and originally housed her cult image, a giant ivory and gold-plated statue by Fidias. The restored temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a striking reminder of the glory of Ancient Greece with its grand marble façade, classic Doric columns, and elaborate sculptural friezes. The site also serves as a fascinating chronicle of Athens’ history.More

Plaka

star-57,383
Built around the ruins of the ancient agora, Plaka is among the oldest residential areas in Athens and was considered the Turkish quarter during Ottoman rule. Much of it burned down during a fire in 1884, exposing many ancient sites below the neighborhood, and archaeological research has been carried out in the area ever since.More

Academy of Athens (Akadimía Athinón)

star-54,548
One of a trio of Neoclassical buildings known as the Athenian Trilogy, the 19th-century Academy of Athens (Akadimía Athinón was founded during the post-independence re-flowering of Greek culture and is home to the national institutes for sciences, philosophy, fine arts, and humanities—following a tradition first established by Plato.More

Agora of Athens

star-57,735
The Agora was the political and social heart of the ancient city of Athens, and the ruins of this civic center and marketplace are among the most important archaeological sites in today’s capital. Explore this cradle of Greek democracy, including the Temple of Hephaestus and Stoa of Attalos.More

Cape Sounion

star-53,390
The sheer cliffs, sweeping views, epic sunsets, and photogenic ruins of Cape Sounion (also written Cape Sounio) form one of the most popular Athens day trips. Built in 444 BC, the Temple of Poseidon with its elegant white-marble columns is the star of the show, but there’s a small beach on-site and a wealth of dining options nearby.More

Temple of Poseidon

star-53,178
Dramatically situated on the coastal cliffs of Cape Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most evocative sites of ancient Greece and a top visitor attraction. The magnificent monument dates back to 444 BC, but today, all that remains is a series of gleaming white marble columns, standing proudly atop the cape.More

Panathenaic Stadium (Panathinaiko Stadio)

star-58,735
Originally built in the fourth century BC for the Panathenaic Games, Athens’ gleaming all-marble Panathenaic Stadium (Panathinaiko Stadio) was reconstructed for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Returning to its roots for the 2004 Olympics, the stadium was the site of the archery competition and the marathon finish line.More

Erechtheion

star-56,934
One of the most remarkable ancient ruins in the UNESCO-listed Acropolis, the Erechtheion is best known for its ornate Porch of the Caryatids, supported by marble statues of six virgins. Dating from the 5th century BC, the temple marks the spot where it was said that Poseidon and Athena fought for control of the fledgling city of Athens. More

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Mnemeíon Agnostou Stratiotou)

star-53,941
Athens' Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Mnēmeíon Agnōstou Stratiōtou)commemorates all Greek soldiers who died in service of their country over its long history. The biggest draw is the weekly Changing of the Guard ceremony, which involves much pomp and live music. During major holidays, politicians and officials lay wreaths at the tomb.More

Trip ideas

Top Athens Neighborhoods

Top Athens Neighborhoods

How to Spend 3 Days in Athens

How to Spend 3 Days in Athens

Top activities in Athens

Athens Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

Athens Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

star-4
968
From
US$60.17
Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens

Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens

star-4.5
414
From
US$134.55
Delphi English Day Trip from Athens

Delphi English Day Trip from Athens

star-4.5
1477
From
US$96.27
Skip the Line: Acropolis of Athens Afternoon Walking Tour
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Small-Group Tour from Athens
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
Athens Full Day Private Tour
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Athens Full Day Private Tour

star-5
802
From
US$153.15
Best of Athens Half Day Private Tour

Best of Athens Half Day Private Tour

star-4.5
158
From
US$175.03
Delphi One Day Trip from Athens

Delphi One Day Trip from Athens

star-4.5
531
From
US$63.99
Athens Greece Full Day private tour

Athens Greece Full Day private tour

star-5
197
From
US$464.92
per group
Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Recent reviews from experiences in Athens

star-5
We throughly loved the w...
Katie_P, Mar 2023
Athens Electric Bike Tour
A fantastic way to see some of the spectacular sights of Athens.
star-5
A must do in Athens
Michaela_G, Mar 2023
Athens Bike Tour on Electric or Regular Bike
We got to see alot plus got upgraded to a private tour, because it was only 2 of us, instead of a larger group #win.
star-4
Lovely trip, lots of interesting info
Sridhar_S, Mar 2023
Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Small-Group Tour from Athens
The guide Eliana was fantastic with stories about Greek mythology and tips about places to visit in Athens.
star-5
Engaging customized tour - perfect for our almost-5 year old
Elana_B, Mar 2023
Ancient Athens for Kids 4-Hour Private Walking Tour
Highly recommend to any families or groups with kids 4 and older.
star-5
The best way to see Athens
Robert_K, Mar 2023
Best of Athens Half Day Private Tour
The perfect way to see this famous city.
star-5
Best way to experience Athens
Melita_C, Feb 2023
Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens
What a wonderful way to see Athens!
star-5
Easy Athens travel
Scott_R, Feb 2023
City Sightseeing Athens, Piraeus & Beach Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
This was an excellent and efficient means to get around the city to see the sites.
star-5
Good way to see the attractions
Marina_N, Jan 2023
Hop on Hop Off Classic tour of Athens
Was my first time in Athens so I decide to take this company to see the landmarks..
star-5
Recommend…!!!
Pedro_C, Jan 2023
Hop on Hop Off Classic tour of Athens
The drivers are very professional and they helped me a lot(what to see and do).
star-5
Love it
Ruby_C, Jan 2023
Athens Full Day Private Tour
Although we didn’t have time to visit Corinth.
star-5
Amazing Athens
TeriAikin, Jan 2023
Athens Full Day Private Tour
He was so pleasant and took us to the best there was to see in Athens.
star-5
Amazing
Harneet_M, Jan 2023
Wheelz Fat Bike Tours riding on the pedestrian area scooter ebike
We ended our 5 days Athens trip with this tour and it was such great way to some up all major attractions plus some hidden spots which we would have missed otherwise .
star-5
Must Do Activity!
Jessica_B, Dec 2022
Athens Bike Tour on Electric or Regular Bike
The biking itself was very manageable along the route and it was such a fun way to see the city.
star-5
Ani was great!
Christine_S, Nov 2022
The Acropolis, Athens Walking City Tour and Acropolis Museum
We got to see a variety of places in Athens and ended with great information of other things to see that day and for our remaining time in Athens.
star-5
Got into the acropolis...
Dat_H, Nov 2022
Skip The Line: Acropolis & Parthenon Admission Ticket with Free Audio Tour
Got to see everything inside and get a great view of Athens.
star-5
Athens at night
Alexis_D, Nov 2022
Athens Highlights Under the Moonlight with Drinks and Meze Dishes
Pointing out different spots and showing us great spots to visit during our time.
star-5
Awesome Service! Great way to see Athens!
gallcut, Nov 2022
City Sightseeing Athens, Piraeus & Beach Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
Great way to see Athens and the onboard audio tour narration was excellent!
star-5
Great way to spend a couple of hours
Michael_A, Nov 2022
Athens Street Food Walk
Her English was clear and easily understandable and she was keen to chat and answer questions.
star-5
A MUST SEE ... IF TIME PERMITS
spaul_a, Nov 2022
Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens
IF time permits this excursion (to us) IS a MUST SEE, while it is a very long day from Athens you will get to see sights that in all our years have travelling we have not (& probably will not have) the opportunity to see anywhere else........
star-5
Great day excursion outside of Athens
Nicholas_N, Nov 2022
Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Small-Group Tour from Athens
Great to see coastline outside of Athens.
We perform checks on reviews