Athens Guide
15 Best Things to Do in Athens – Where to Eat, What to See, What to Do
-
![]()
Relax at a beach club on Athens Riviera
-
![]()
Explore the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation
-
![]()
Watch the sunset at Taverna 37
-
![]()
See the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
-
![]()
Get lost in the charming streets of Anafiotika
-
![]()
Eat at Linou Soumpasis k sia, Akra, Taverna ton Filon
-
![]()
Visit the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum
-
![]()
See Greek Art at the National Gallery
-
![]()
Try Greek Coffee or visit the hip coffee places
-
![]()
Shop local Greek brands in Plaka or Pangrati
1. Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
Oh no, yet another Athens guide starting with the Acropolis. But I can’t help it – it is the essence of the city. A symbol of Greek heritage and architectural brilliance, it houses some of the most significant ancient structures: the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. For centuries, travelers have made their way here, so who are we to reinvent the wheel?
Some say to visit early in the morning; others swear by secret tips to avoid crowds. The truth? It’s a touristy spot, and you’ll see tourists – no surprises there. The key is to pre-book your ticket and choose a time that works for you! I went just before sunset, and let me tell you – the golden hour hitting the ancient columns, the city glowing below – it’s pure magic.
Before heading up, stop by the Acropolis Museum. It gives a great sense of scale and importance to the Acropolis, not to mention showcasing some breathtaking sculptures. And beyond the exhibits? The building itself, designed by Bernard Tschumi, is an architectural masterpiece worth the visit alone.
2. Sunset at Taverna 37
Salt-baked fresh fish at a relaxed seaside tavern in a luxury resort? Yes, please! Picture this: a truly good bite of freshly caught fish, a sip of Greek wine, and the sun dipping below the horizon. Located in the Four Seasons Athens, this spot is a must. If you can stay at the resort – do. If not, at least spend a day at their beach club. But whatever you do, don’t skip dinner at Taverna 37.
3. Athens Riviera - Beach Club Bliss
If you’re in Athens in summer, you must experience a beach club. Greeks know how to relax, and they’re more than happy to share this knowledge. If not the Four Seasons, then head to Krabo on the Athens Riviera. A truly good Greek salad, fresh juices, and a day spent with a book, watching the yachts sway in the sunlit sea – perfection.
4. Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation
A beautifully curated private art collection that has become one of my absolute favourite galleries. Expect 20th-century European masterpieces, plus a stellar selection of Greek art. And don’t miss the staircase – the building itself is part of the experience.
5. Temple of Poseidon
A bit of a road trip (about an hour from Athens), but absolutely worth it. Perched on Cape Sounion, this temple dedicated to Poseidon is breathtaking. The scale, the views, the sheer grandeur – it’s a must! On the way, stop at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center or take a dip in Lake Vouliagmeni.
6. Anafiotika
A hidden island village right in the heart of Athens. Whitewashed houses, colorful doors, and a labyrinth of narrow streets –
it’s like stepping into a little slice of the Cyclades, without leaving the city.
7. Truly, Truly Good Meals
If I had to pick just a few:
Linou Soumpasis & Sia – modern, conceptual, and utterly amazing.
Akra – equally creative, with flavors you won’t forget.
Taverna ton Filon & Café Avissinia – traditional, no-frills, and simply the best at what they do.
Soil – if you’re in the mood for a fine-dining tasting menu experience.
No tourist traps here, just locals and serious food lovers.
8. National Gallery – Alexandros Soutsos Museum
A beautifully curated national collection housed in a modernist space. A prime example of how a national gallery should be done.
Give yourself at least 1.5–2 hours to soak it all in.
9. Shop Local!
Greek brands are incredible – from ceramics to clothing, beauty to food. Some must-visit spots:
Threesome Ceramics – handmade, beautiful, and unique.
APIVITA Experience Store – the best Greek skincare.
ZEUS+DIONE – for effortlessly chic Greek fashion.
The Naxos Apothecary – scents, oils, and skincare inspired by Greek nature.
Ancient Greek Sandals – because, well, sandals.
Ergon Deli – if you want to take Greek flavors home.
Just take a stroll through Plaka or Pangrati, and you’ll discover even more gems.
10. Coffee, Coffee, Coffee
Greek coffee from a street cart? Yes, please. Order it anywhere – at your hotel, a neighborhood café, or a tiny street kiosk – and enjoy it in a park or at the beach.
If you’re after something more hip, with great coffee and a sweet treat or breakfast, check out:
Adad Books & Café
Ere Athens
Ohh Boy
11. A View of the Acropolis
Every time I’m in Athens, I have a tradition: I go to the Dolli at the Acropolis rooftop, order a really good coffee, a Greek salad, and a fruit plate with yogurt and honey, and just soak in the view.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus from up there? Stunning.
(Also, a great place to stay while in town!)
12. National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST)
If you love modern art, this is a must-visit. A striking space showcasing thought-provoking works from Greek and international artists.
13. Plaka Stairs
The Mnisikleous Street Stairs – touristy? Yes. But vibrant, lively, and packed with character? Also yes.
Sit at one of the cafés, listen to live music, enjoy the architecture, and just soak in the atmosphere.
14. Benaki Museum
Set in a neoclassical mansion, this museum spans thousands of years of Greek history, from ancient amulets to Byzantine icons to traditional folk costumes.
One of the most fascinating and diverse museums in Greece.
15. And More?
Fifteen points weren’t enough, so here’s a bonus list of other incredible places to visit (a little cheat):
Athens Seasonal Markets – for a taste of local life.
Temple of Olympian Zeus – grand, ancient, awe-inspiring.
National Archaeological Museum – one of the best in the world.
Alekos Fassianos Museum – a deep dive into the work of a Greek legend.
A Theatre Show – whether ancient drama or a modern twist.
Open-Air Cinema (Cinema Paradiso!!) – pure magic.
National Garden Athens (Turtle Pond!!) – a green oasis in the city.
Hyper Hypo Athens Bookshop – indie bookstore heaven.
Where to Stay
Dolli at the Acropolis – chic, stylish, perfect views.
COCO-MAT Athens – modern, sustainable, effortlessly cool.
Want something classic? Think Hotel Grande Bretagne ((thing Plaza in New York or Savoy in London)
On a budget but don;t want to sacrifice the aesthetics? Ederlezi Boutique Hotel is a choice for you!
Athens is a city where ancient history meets contemporary cool, where great food and great views are always around the corner. So grab a coffee, get lost in the streets, and enjoy every moment.
While in Athens, why not fly to Italy to go to the opera or the UK on a farm retreat? These are just a few weeks away - join now!
UPCOMING TOURS
UPCOMING TOURS
We’re thrilled to unveil our Spring-Summer 2025 Tour Collection, a series of luxurious, women-only adventures designed for those who love style, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
-
Riga Food Guide
-
Services
-
Travel Stories