Top 5 Things to See and Do in Athens

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis is an ancient citadel overlooking Athens, It includes the Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon. Although often crowded, it’s one of the best places to wander. There’s a lot of good signage too. Come real early or late to avoid the crowds.

2. Visit the Acropolis Museum

This museum only opened in 2009. There’s a glass floor where you can walk over the ruins of an ancient neighborhood as well as enormous sculptures, friezes, vessels, and other artifacts. The museum’s restaurant has one of the best views of the Parthenon in the city.

3. Visit the National Archeological Museum

This museum has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek sculpture, jewelry, and pottery in the world. You can even see the 2,000-year-old “computer” found in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera. Plan to spend at least a half day here.

4. Hike to the top of Lycabettus

If you want some exercise and a great view of the city (especially in the evening), hike up to the peak of this 277 meter hill. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street. There’s a cafe at the top if you need a drink. You can also use the funicular for your return.

5. Explore the Greek Agora

The area around the Acropolis is littered with the ancient ruins of old Athens, including the Greek Agora, the marketplace and societal hub from the 6th century BC. Be sure to visit the Temple of Hephaistos and the Museum of the Ancient Agora.