Athens is a city where history and hedonism collide, offering a treasure trove of ancient wonders and modern delights. You can lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets, sip ouzo and beers in a sun-drenched taverna, and dance the night away to the pulsating rhythms of bouzouki music.
But let’s not forget the real reason you’re here: to see some of the planet’s most iconic historical sites. This is why I decided to write this article, which is filled with places to see in Athens.
I only managed to visit Athens in the summer of 2021, when I was invited to join a cruise through some Greek islands with the amazing people from Running on Waves. Before the cruise of the Aegean Sea started, I flew to Athens to explore the city and see everything I could in a few days.
Walking around the streets of Athens was amazing, and I saw history with my eyes. Because of that, I decided to remember that summer and write about some of my favorite places in Athens and what I loved about them. Here we go!
10 Unmissable Places to See in Athens: Ancient Wonders to Modern Delights
The Acropolis’ Timeless Majesty
The Acropolis is not your average tourist trap. It is known as the birthplace of democracy, where philosophers contemplated life’s profound questions and fervently worshipped gods and goddesses. The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena, takes center stage.
However, explore the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids and the Temple of Athena Nike, perched precariously on the cliff’s edge.
The breathtaking top views offer a panoramic vista of the city below, stretching from the bustling streets to the distant mountains. You can easily spend hours exploring the ruins, marveling at the complex details of the architecture, and imagining the vibrant life that once thrived here.
But be aware that climbing to the top might be too much for some people in the summer sun. Be careful, take care of yourself, and bring some water!
Whispers of the Past in Keramikos
Next, head to the ancient necropolis of Keramikos, the ancient cemetery where Athenians were laid to rest in style. Check out the tombstones, some more elaborate than a celebrity wedding cake. Meander along the Sacred Way, where funeral processions once passed, and admire the intricately carved tombstones, each telling a story of a life lived.
The on-site museum houses fascinating artifacts unearthed during excavations, shedding light on the customs and beliefs of the time. When I visited the place, I could almost hear the whispers of the past as I wandered among the ruins, imagining the lives of those who once walked these streets.
The Acropolis Museum is Where Ancient Treasures Meet Modern Marvels
It’s time for the Acropolis Museum, a state-of-the-art treasure trove of ancient Greek art and artifacts. The exhibits are beautifully displayed, with natural light flooding the galleries, creating an ambiance that complements the ancient treasures.
The top-floor Parthenon Gallery offers a unique perspective on the temple’s iconic friezes, allowing you to admire their intricate details up close. Go there for a coffee and enjoy the views as I did in one of the best places to see in Athens.
Also, don’t miss the chance to see the original Caryatids from the Erechtheion – their graceful forms and serene expressions are truly awe-inspiring.
A Colossal Tribute to the King of the Gods
The Temple of Olympian Zeus, a colossal monument to the king of the gods, is a must-see for any history buff visiting Athens. This was the first archeological sight I set foot in Athens, and it was easy for me to stroll amongst the towering ruins of this once-mighty temple, the largest in Greece during the Roman era.
Only 16 of the original 104 massive columns remain standing, but their sheer size and grandeur will leave you breathless. The temple’s construction spanned centuries, starting in the 6th century BC and finally completed under Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.
Sadly, its glory was short-lived, as it was pillaged and left to crumble just a century later. Yet, even in ruins, the Temple of Olympian Zeus stands as a testament to the ambition and artistry of the ancient world.
A Stroll Through the Athenian Agora
The Athenian Agora is an expansive archaeological site that was once the heart of ancient Athens. People gathered there to debate politics, shop for goods from all over the Mediterranean, and attend religious ceremonies.
Today, you can explore the ruins of temples and other public buildings, including the impressive Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece.
And a fantastic location for pictures!
Anafiotika’s Island Charm
For a taste of the island life in the heart of Athens, visit Anafiotika, a charming neighborhood on the slopes of the Acropolis. With its whitewashed houses and narrow, winding streets, it’s like stepping into a postcard from Santorini.
This picturesque neighborhood, nestled on the slopes of the Acropolis, feels like a slice of the Cycladic islands transported to the heart of Athens.
It’s the perfect place to get lost for an afternoon, discovering hidden corners and enjoying stunning city views—and what amazing views those are!
The Marble Majesty of the Panathenaic Stadium
If you are an architecture or a sports fan, take advantage of the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games took place. This is the place to run around the track while you imagine the crowd’s roar and feel the goosebumps rise.
This all-marble stadium, the only one of its kind in the world, is a sight to behold. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and continues to be used for ceremonial and sporting events today. You can walk on the same track where Olympic athletes once competed, feeling the energy and history of the most iconic places to see in Athens.
The Benaki Museum’s Timeless Treasures
The Benaki Museum, a true Athenian institution housed in a stunning neoclassical mansion, offers a deep dive into Greek history and culture over millennia. It’s a feast for the senses, showcasing over 100,000 artifacts that trace Greece’s evolution from prehistoric times to the present.
It’s easy and fun to get lost in the labyrinthine halls and discover treasures like ancient sculptures, intricate Byzantine icons, dazzling jewelry, vibrant folk costumes, and modern masterpieces. The museum’s extensive collection reflects the richness and diversity of Greek artistic expression, shaped by many civilizations.
This was the last place I visited in Athens during my summer 2021 visit, and it was an excellent location that served as a closure for the trip. Since I visited different historical places and ruins, seeing a more modern look into the country was interesting.
The Secret History of Agia Dynamis Church
The Agia Dynamis Church is a small 16th-century hidden gem tucked away amidst modern buildings. I passed by it once, and it felt like a surreal movie set since the entire church is surrounded by a contemporary building, as you can see in the pictures here.
Also, it’s a peaceful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reflect on its role in the Greek War of Independence, where it served as a secret ammunition factory for the rebels. No pictures from the inside since I didn’t manage to get there when the church was open.
Retail Therapy with a Twist: A Roman Tomb Under Zara
This unique Zara location offers more than just the latest fashions. In its basement lies a well-preserved Roman tomb discovered during the construction of the Athens Metro. It’s such an unusual sight that I keep bringing it to people, as I do with McDonald’s in Rome.
It’s a fascinating reminder of the city’s layered history and the unexpected treasures beneath its modern surface.
Your Ultimate Athens Itinerary: 10 Must-Visit Landmarks and Neighborhoods
Athens is more than just a city break; it’s a captivating journey through time, an exhilarating feast for the senses, and an inviting playground for the curious.
From ancient ruins that tell enchanting tales of gods and heroes to vibrant neighborhoods pulsing with modern life, Athens will leave you breathless with wonder.
Whether you’re exploring the hallowed grounds of the Acropolis, wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Anafiotika, or uncovering hidden treasures like a Roman tomb in a Zara store, there are way too many places to see in Athens.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of Athens. It’s a city that will stay with you long after you’ve left its sun-drenched shores.
