Top 10 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

There is a fine balance in Athens between the vibrancy of modern culture and its standing as the cradle of Western civilization. For those making their way to the Greek capital, be it a first visit or a chance to put in some more exploration, we have put together the 10 things one simply has to do.

First on any list should be the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon; it would hardly be a trip to Athens without it

🏛️ 1. Acropolis & Parthenon

We recommend an early start to get there before the heat of the day and the throngs of people set in. While in the vicinity, make time for the Acropolis Museum to put these old world marvels in proper perspective.

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🏟️ 2. Panathenaic Stadium

Constructed from marble in its entirety, this is the world’s one and only stadium of its kind. Dating back to its original edifice in the 6th century BC and put through a refurbishment in 1896, it was the venue for the inaugural modern Olympics.

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🏞️ 3. Mount Lycabettus

Then there is Mount Lycabettus for a change of scene. One can make the hike or use the funicular to get to the top and be rewarded with panoramic views over Athens; the vantage point is especially striking at sunset.

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🏛️ 4. National Archaeological Museum

One can get a measure of Greece’s storied past at this museum, home to such important pieces as the Antikythera Mechanism, that ancient analog computer.

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🏙️ 5. Plaka & Anafiotika

Then there is Plaka, the oldest quarter of Athens and a place with character. A stroll through its streets puts one right under the Acropolis. Anafiotika in particular is not to be overlooked; it has all the appeal of a Cycladic island village and is well worth the detour.

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🎭 6. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

One can still catch a live performance at the old stone theater on the Acropolis’s southern slope. There is something quite magical about being in attendance for a show, particularly in the course of a summer festival, where the old and new worlds of culture seem to merge.

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🏛️ 7. Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

For a change of pace, a brief drive from Athens will take you to a temple perched on the cliffs. The vantage point over the Aegean is hard to beat, come sunset, making it an ideal spot for a day out that is as historical as it is scenic.

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🌳 8. National Garden of Athens

Put the city’s noise and commotion behind you for a walk in this verdant 16-hectare park. One will find plenty of quiet places to unwind, as well as duck ponds, a zoo of sorts and paths with good shade.

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🎶 9. Maria Callas Museum

For those with an appreciation of music and drama, the new museum is not to be missed. In it one can pay homage to the life and legacy of Maria Callas, the legendary Greek-American opera star, and get a sense of her country’s cultural heritage.

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🏖️ 10. Lake Vouliagmeni

Located just outside Athens, this natural lake is known for its warm, mineral-rich waters believed to have therapeutic properties. It’s a relaxing and refreshing break from the urban pace.

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