Things to do in Athens

Why go to Athens

• The Acropolis & Parthenon

  The most iconic ancient monument in the Western world, glowing golden above the city at sunset.

• Acropolis Museum

  A stunning modern museum housing original Parthenon sculptures and artifacts with glass floors revealing excavations beneath.

• Ancient Agora of Athens

  Walk the same marketplace where Socrates debated ideas, with the remarkably intact Temple of Hephaestus still standing.

• National Archaeological Museum

  The world's finest collection of ancient Greek art, including the gold Mask of Agamemnon, utterly unmissable.

• Monastiraki Flea Market & Plaka District

  A labyrinth of antiques, street food, rooftop cafes, and ancient ruins woven into the neighborhood streets.

Good to know in Athens

• Transit: A 90-minute metro/bus/tram ticket costs about $1.50; a 5-day travel pass is around $10 and covers the airport express metro line too.
• Tipping: Not mandatory but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated at sit-down restaurants; cafes and fast food spots don't expect tips.
• Tap water: Athens tap water is safe to drink and locals do drink it, skip the bottled water and refill at the city's free public fountains throughout the center.
• Free-entry days: Greek state museums and archaeological sites are free on the first Sunday of each month (November through March) and on select national holidays like March 25 and October 28, the Acropolis is included.

Trip essentials