By Fathima Rukaiya,

Athens is a city that breathes history. Its ancient temples rise above modern streets, its markets buzz with life just steps from ruins that shaped Western civilization, and its coastal sunsets glow over centuries of myths.

Here are 11 must-do activities with rates, location and facilities to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

1. Climb the Acropolis & Parthenon

A trip to Athens wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Acropolis. The origins of philosophy and democracy can be found at this UNESCO site. The city opens up underneath you as you ascend the marble walkway, and the Parthenon, an architectural wonder honoring Athena, is located at the top. Every second spent there is magical because the golden stones change color throughout the day.

Location: Acropolis Hill, central Athens

Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, shaded waiting areas, marked accessibility routes, multilingual information displays, and timed-entry gates that keep queues manageable.

Price: €30 full, €15 reduced.

2. Explore the Acropolis Museum

This museum is a work of art in and of itself. Its light-filled galleries feature statues, ceramics, and original Parthenon sculptures, while its glass flooring show ancient discoveries beneath. You may observe how sunlight passes through the marble panels, just as the ancient Greeks had planned. The Parthenon is precisely aligned with the top-floor gallery, providing you with an unparalleled view.

Location: Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, right beside the Acropolis entrance.

Facilities:
Accessible routes all around, a gift store, elevators, multilingual signs, a panoramic café with views of the Acropolis, and seasonal late-night openings.

Price: The cost of tickets varies according to the exhibit and season.

3. Wander the Ancient Agora & the Temple of Hephaestus

Imagine the ancient Athenians debating politics, trading goods, and listening to philosophers. That all happened here. The Ancient Agora is lush, peaceful, and one of the most evocative archaeological spaces in the city. The Temple of Hephaestus, perfectly preserved and framed by gardens, looks almost as it did 2,500 years ago.

Location: Foot of the Acropolis, near Monastiraki and Thissio.

Facilities: Shaded paths, museum inside the Stoa of Attalos, benches, and cafés in the nearby streets of Thissio.

Price: Covered by Greece’s archaeological ticket system (timed entry applies).

4. National Archaeological Museum

This is Greece’s largest and most impressive museum, a treasure chest of ancient wonders. You’ll see monumental sculptures, Bronze Age gold, the famous Mask of Agamemnon, Egyptian antiquities, and delicate frescoes rescued from volcanic ash.

Location: Patission Street, near Victoria Square.

Facilities: Café, bookstore, restrooms, wheelchair accessible galleries, and climate-controlled exhibition halls.

Price: Varies seasonally; check current rates before going

5. Step into Olympic History at the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)

This stadium is the only one of its sorts in the world, and it was constructed entirely of white marble. It was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and it is incredibly motivating to stand on the track where the competitors formerly competed. In addition, it’s a stunning architectural site surrounded by pine woods.

Location: Pangrati, a short walk from Syntagma.

Facilities: Facilities include a ticket office, bathrooms, and a small museum about Olympic history. As of October 2025, updated ticket regulations will be in effect.

Price: The regular cost of entry is approximately €12.

6. Experience the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square

The Presidential Mansion’s finest guards, known as the Evzones, undertake a precise, symbolic changing ceremony while dressed in traditional uniforms. Centuries of Greek military tradition are reflected in their carefully coordinated motions. The entire square is transformed on Sundays by a full parade with music.

Location: Syntagma, opposite the Hellenic Parliament.

Facilities: cafés, shaded seating places, and a public square with metro access.

Best time: Sundays at 11:00 for the full ceremonial version.

7. Watch the Sunset from Mount Lycabettus

The best 360-degree panorama in Athens is provided by Lycabettus Hill, which rises high above the city. At dusk, you can see the mountains surrounding the city, the sea shimmering to the south, and the Acropolis sparkling. Take a cable car ride or stroll along pathways fragrant with pine.

Location: Kolonaki district; funicular at Aristippou Street.

Facilities: lookout platforms, restrooms, terraces, a church, and a hilltop café.

Price: Funicular costs about €12 round-trip and €9 one way.

8. Stand Among Giants at the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Only a few of the enormous Corinthian columns from what was once one of the biggest temples in history now survive, but their size is breathtaking. The majesty of what was once a colossal monument to Zeus is evident. Nearby, Hadrian’s Arch marks the ancient city’s symbolic entry.

Location: Between the Acropolis and the National Garden.

Facilities: rest areas, information panels, and an outdoor location with shaded areas.

9. Explore Plaka & Anafiotika

Plaka feels like a traditional village within a capital city. Neoclassical homes, artisan stores, pubs with patios covered in bougainvillea, and street musicians line its winding streets. A short climb leads to Anafiotika, a tiny, whitewashed neighborhood built by island craftsmen.

Location: Northeast slopes of the Acropolis.

Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, rooftop bars; limited public restrooms.

Price: Meals cost around €10 – €25.

10. Take a Sunset Trip to Cape Sounion & the Temple of Poseidon

One of Greece’s most magnificent ancient sites is the Temple of Poseidon, which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the Aegean. The sea glows gold during these stunning sunsets. From Athens, a picturesque drive down the coast passes beaches and views.

Location: Cape Sounion, about 70 km southeast of Athens.

Facilities: parking, walking trails, a café kiosk, and an archaeological site.

Price: Tours from Athens range €30 – €60+ depending on guide, transport, and inclusions. Archaeological site entries may be around €20 if not included.

11. Do a Taverna & Street food Crawl

For foodies, Athens is a culinary heaven. Savor meze platters, shellfish, slow-cooked stews, freshly grilled souvlaki, and gyros wrapped in warm pita. You may eat outside under lanterns while listening to live Greek music in neighborhoods including Monastiraki, Psirri, Exarchia, and Plaka.

Location: Across central Athens.

Facilities: vegetarian and vegan options, rooftop dining, and casual sitting.

Price: Taverna lunches cost €10 – €20 per person, while street souvlaki is €2 – €6.

Tips for Visiting Athens in 2025

• Timed tickets are essential for the Acropolis and major sites, especially in peak season.
• Heat restrictions may affect opening hours in July – August, plan early morning or evening visits.
• Combined archaeological passes can save money if you’re visiting multiple sites.
• Use the Metro for quick travel across central Athens; walking is best for historic districts.

* Please note that the prices mentioned above may fluctuate depending on the season, special events, or official updates. Always check the latest rates before your visit.