Athens is Europe’s oldest capital city and the birthplace of democracy.

Although we didn’t spend very long there we had some Greek friends who showed us around and made sure we saw the best the city had to offer.

Here are some of my favorites.

The 10 Best Things To Do in Athens

1. Learn about Ancient Greece with a visit to the Acropolis

First and foremost the Acropolis. You can’t come to Athens and not see it. 

The Acropolis used to be the highest part of the city, and you’ll notice that no matter where you are in central Athens you are always able to see it. As it sits on a hill, the walk up is not the easiest but it is not overly difficult. For the best experience I suggest you go early in the morning like we did, so you can avoid crowds and the heat.

Once you get on top, not only you’ll be able to see a beautiful view of the city but you’ll be able to admire monuments like the Parthenon, the Temple of Nike, and much more!

On the same hill, you will also find the Theatre of Dionysus, which is believed to be the first theater ever constructed and the birthplace of Greek tragedy.

And if after your visit you want to learn more about it you can go to the Acropolis museum, the most popular museum in Athens, where you will find many different artifacts that were once in the Acropolis and surrounding area.

2. Watch the sunset over the city

We already talked about how the Acropolis offers a great view of the city. During our time in Athens, we found three other hills that are worth a visit and offer a great view of both the city and the Acropolis. 

These hills are 

• Areopagus Hill, a low rocky hill northwest of the Acropolis
• Philopappos Hill, a green hill where, amongst other things, you will also find the prison of Socrates and the Philopappos monument.
• Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, is almost twice the size of the Acropolis. This is probably the most difficult hill to climb but it is worth the effort and on your way up you can stop at the restaurant and enjoy the view while having a drink!

3. Take a walk through the National Garden

This is one of the biggest parks in the city and it has something to do for everyone. You’ll find a zoo with local animals like wild goats and peacocks, cafes and playgrounds.

Not too far from this park, you can also find the Roman Arch of Adrian and the Temple of Zeus.

4. Visit the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was a place of political gatherings and today you’ll find that most buildings in this area are still standing and in good condition. An example is the Temple of Hephaestus, dedicated to the god of blacksmithing and Atheens, the goddess of pottery and crafting. Together they represent the craftsmen of Greece and celebrate artisans. This is also one of the best kept temples of the world.

5. The Roman Agora

The Roman Agora, located less than 10 minutes from the Ancient Agora, was instead an open marketplace surrounded by a wall and built with the help of donations from Julius Caesar and Augustus. While not as famous as the Ancient Agora I think it is worth the visit.

6. Take a day trip 

If you’re visiting Athens for more than a couple of days don’t pass on the opportunity to see another Greek city. The options are endless, based on your interests. You could spend a day at the beach, or dive in even more in Greek history by visiting Sparta or Delphi.

We decided on Sparta. Here, amongst other things, we visited the archeological site of the ancient city, where you can find the remains of the Agora, the Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, not to mention a beautiful view of the city.

7. Spend a night out in Athens

Greece is famous for its nightlife, and Athens did not disappoint! Whether you want to spend a night chatting with friends over drinks at the bar or you want to spend the night dancing in a club, there’s plenty to choose from. Just be prepared because most clubs don’t open until midnight.

And after a long night out, enjoy a gyro in one of the many fast-food restaurants across the city.

8. Embrace the coffee culture

Coffee is a key component of Greek culture and people will spend hours sipping coffee and talking with friends, so make sure you try it during your trip. You will find many to choose from, both hot and cold.

9. Spend your afternoon shopping on Ermou Street

This pedestrian street is easily the most famous shopping street in the city, loved by both tourists and locals. Walking this street also allows you to pass in front of some of the most important places in the center of Athens, like neighborhoods such as Monastiraki, where the Agora is located, or Psiri and Thisio.

10. Try traditional Greek food in one of the many restaurants

After a long afternoon of shopping, there’s nothing better than enjoying a Greek meal in one of the many traditional restaurants. 

Some of my favorites are:

• Moussaka: baked layers of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and bechamel sauce.
• Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and crumbled feta, dressed in olive oil.
• Last but not least Dolmades: grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, served with yogurt for dipping.