
12/12/2024
Athens, Greece is such a popular destination, whether visiting there only or as a stop in addition to the Greek Isles.
Here are some interesting things to do there:
Book in advance to visit the Parthenon on the Acropolis
Naturally, many visitors head straight to the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens' most notable sights. The Acropolis has a daily visitor’s cap to avoid overcrowding and to preserve the ancient monument, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s not really necessary to have a guide for the Acropolis – which can be booked on site – unless you’re very interested in dates and knowing the intricacies of ancient Greek history.
See ancient treasures at the Acropolis Museum
At the foot of the Acropolis lies the impressive Acropolis Museum, which showcases treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, plus a stunning glass floor that reveals the excavated ruins underneath it. There’s also a terraced restaurant on the top floor with gorgeous views across to the monument.
Spend a Sunday wandering through the city
Looking for free and low-cost things to do in Athens? Meander along the streets of Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday to peruse all the random wares for sale (everything from old drachma coins to shop mannequins), or take a stroll through the National Garden next to the Parliament building, with its many species of plants and parrots flying freely. Witness the changing of the evzones (presidential guards) every hour on the hour outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, or make your way to Filopappou Hill/Hill of the Muses with its pine forest – a great destination on a hot day thanks to its abundant shade. Be sure to head up here at sunset for views across to the Saronic Gulf.