Sights and Attractions in Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city filled with history, culture, and stunning sights and attractions. Visitors to Athens will be mesmerized by the ancient ruins that are scattered throughout the city, such as the iconic Parthenon and Acropolis. These archaeological wonders offer a glimpse into the city's rich past and are a must-see for any history enthusiast. Apart from the historical sites, Athens also boasts a vibrant modern cityscape with lively neighborhoods, bustling markets, and trendy cafes. Wander through the charming streets of Plaka, explore the vibrant street art scene in Psirri, or shop for souvenirs at the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts and treasures. For those seeking a bit of relaxation, head to the peaceful oasis of the National Garden or take a stroll along the picturesque coastline of the Athenian Riviera. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Athens has something for everyone. With its mix of ancient wonders and modern delights, Athens is a city that will captivate and inspire visitors from around the world.

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Hadrian's Library

Hadrian's Library was built in 132AD by emperor Hadrian and sits on the north side of the Acropolis, immediately north of the Roman Agora. During its heyday, most of the space was a flashy marble courtyard, complete with gardens and a pool. The rectangular building of the library is comprised of a Corinthian propylon…

Cycladic Art Museum

Founded in 1986, the Museum of Cycladic Art prides itself on the promotion and study of ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus, in particular, the Cycladic Art of the 3rd millennium BC. It was originally built to house the collection of Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris when it first opened, but has since grown…

National Archaeological Museum

Housed in a neoclassical building built in the 19th century, that is one of the largest and most significant museums of ancient Greek art, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens holds 8,500 square metres of exhibition space. The museum presents the evolution of ancient Greek art and history from the prehistoric…

Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments

The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments, known to local Athenians as Melmoke, is home to approximately 1200 popular Greek musical instruments. These pieces date from as far back as the 18th century up to the present day. The Museum is situated in an old Athenian mansion, built in 1842, in the Plaka district of…

Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum

Opening to the public as a non-profit organisation in 1993, the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum is a unique museum dedicated to decorative art and the art of jewellery. The museum's permanent collection contains over 4,000 pieces of jewellery and micro sculptures, from over 50 collections that were designed by the…

Jewish Museum of Greece

The Jewish Museum in Athens first opened its doors in 1977. It aims to create an archive for Jewish materials and artefacts collected across the past 2000 years of Jewish existence. The Jewish community in Greece has a rich history and this is celebrated by this museum. It is the perfect way to gain a better…

Acropolis Museum

Established in 2009 and recognised for its modern and stylish design, The Acropolis Museum was created in order to exhibit the significant finds from the foothills of the Sacred Rock over its three jam packed and exciting floors. Walking through the ground floor doors and you're immersed in the 'Gallery of the Slopes…

Kesariani Monastery

The Kesariani Monastery is situated to the east of Athens, a short distance by car for visitors. It is an idyllic location, perched in the foothills of Mount Hymettos. Indeed it is so heavenly that according to Greek mythology, the place was a favourite of the god Hephaistos. The Kesariani Monastery is surrounded by a…

Sanctuary of Artemis, Vravrona

Situated on the eastern coast of Attica, near the Aegan Sea in a small inlet, the sanctuary of Artemis at Brauron lies as an early sacred site. The area was first inhabited on the hill, overlooking the Brauron bay, towards the end of the Neolithic age and near the beginning of the early Bronze age (1600 - 1375 BC)…

War Museum

The War Museum was created to honour all the veterans who have fought for Greece. It opened in 1964 and covers the history of war. The permanent collection includes the P.Z. Saroglos Weaponry Collection, which showcases rare and valuable hand-to-hand weapons, as well as artifacts from other civilisations such as…

Canellopoulos Museum

Situated at the base of the Acropolis, above the Ancient Agora, the Canellopoulos museum houses a private collection of art work and artefacts donated to the Greek state. Displayed in a beautiful neoclassical building, the art dates back to the prehistoric age up until the Byzantine Empire. Τhe Museum's exhibits…

Greek Maritime Museum

Situated at Akti Themistokleous, close to the Zea marina, Greek Maritime Museum boasts an abundance of items. Artefacts include model ships, maps, a section of the Long Walls, an old lighthouse and objects from Aristotle Onassis's yacht 'Argo'. Other things to see include items from the time of the War of independence…

Museum of Greek Children's Art

The Museum of Greek Children's Art is a cultural not-for-profit project founded in 1944 by the Association of Friends. It is a unique project within Greece and actually only one of very few worldwide. Its' mission statement is to preserve, present and promote art by children in order to develop the recognition of…

Byzantine and Christian Museum

The Byzantine and Christian Museum, located in the centre of Athens, is one of the most important national museums in Greece established in 1914, and one of the top museums in the world. The museum has over 30,000 important and valuable artefacts in its possession including exceptional icons, sculptures, ceramics…

The Ancient Agora of Athens

Considered one of the most interesting archaeological sites in Greece, the Agora was the heart of ancient Athens for 1,200 years. It is a large open square which, during its time, was a place of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, and was the religious and cultural centre of Athens. This is…

Museum Herakleidon

The Herakleidon museum is situated right in the centre of Athens, in the shadow of the globally recognised Acropolis. In a restored neoclassic building the museum has a history of its own, almost as complex as the Acropolis! The Herakleidon has been inviting in guests since the summer of 2004 and has always had a full…

Kerameikos

Kerameikos is an archaeological site in Northwest Athens and was historically where the potters settled in the city. Kerameikos means 'potter' in Greek and this was certainly the main centre of production for all pottery and vase-ware within Athens in historic times. The heavy settlement in Kerameikos was due to the…

National Historical Museum

Founded in 1882 and belonging to The Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece (HESG), the National Historical Museum's purpose is to collect, save and present remains and documentary evidence relating to modern Greek history. The museum is the oldest of its kind and includes many rich collections representing…

Piraeus Archaeological Museum

Founded in 1966 and situated in a modern building in Zarilaou Trikoupi Street, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum consists of a two-storey showroom with a warehouse and laboratories. The museum mainly displays sculptures discovered in Piraeus and the area of the Attic coast from the Bronze Age and Roman times. The…

B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation

The B & M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts and Music was founded as a non-profit-making foundation for the public good in 2004 and ratified by Presidential Decree. Basil and Marina Theocharakis establish the B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation for fine arts and music in the heart of Athens political and cultural…

Benaki Museum

Housed in one of the few neoclassical buildings remaining in central Athens, The Benaki is the oldest museum in Greece. Nestled in the city's historic centre, it lies opposite the green oasis of the National Gardens and is within walking distance of other top museums like the Museum of Cycladic Art. The museum houses…

The Roman Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The famous Herodes Atticus Odeon dominates the western end on the south slope of the Acropolis. The exact date of construction is unknown, but it was the third Odeon constructed in ancient Athens after the Pericles Odeon on the south slope and the Agrippa's Odeon in the ancient Agora. The Odeon of Herodes was…

The Erechtheion, Acropolis

The Erechtheion, the graceful building on the north side of the sacred rock of the Acropolis, was erected in 421-406 BC as a replacement of an earlier temple dedicated to Athena Polias, the 'Old temple'. The name 'Erechtheion' derives from Erechtheus, the mythical king of Athens, who was worshipped there. The building…

Municipal Gallery of Athens

The Athens Municipal Gallery is one of the biggest and most popular art museums in the whole of Greece that links private and publicly owned art collections. The art work is predominantly contemporary and of Greek origin, making it a great place to stop to take in Greek culture. The collections include more than 3,500…

Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens

This breathtaking ruin is the remains of a temple that commemorates Zeus, King of the Olympian Gods. Its construction began in the sixth century BC, but for reasons unknown was not completed until the second century AD, when it became the largest temple in Greece. During the centuries following the fall of the Roman…

The Museum of the History of the Greek Costume

Situated in a two-storey 1920s building, the Museum of the History of the Greek Costume of the Lyceum Club of Greek Women has been established for over 25 years since being opened by the Minister of Culture, Melina Merkouri. Exclusively devoted to Greek dress, the museum holds 25,000 pieces, with most of those being…

The Parthenon

The Parthenon, or 'The Temple to the Virgin', was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the maiden Goddess considered to be the city patron. Built between 447 BC and 438 BC, this temple replaced the very first Parthenon (Parthenon I) of 570 BC. It was designed by architects Iktinos and Kallikrates, while the sculptor…

Hellenic Cosmos

This ultra-modern cultural centre is part of an on-going project to redevelop Athens' industrial zone. It aims to educate about the Hellenism movement and the history and culture associated with this period. Situated on the borders of Athens and Piraeus, its contemporary design stands in stark contrast to the ancient…

Frissiras Museum

The Frissiras Museum was founded by the Vlassis Frissiras family and has been set up in order to preserve and protect the past, display current work and create forthcoming cultural work. It houses the private collection of its art aficionado founder, Vlassis Frissiras. Over 40 years he has collated a collection of…

Vorres Museum

Created in 1983, the Vorres Museum and its collections cover 2000 years and are divided into two main sections. The first section constitutes a museum of contemporary Greek art, in which paintings and sculptures by leading Greek artists of the second half of the 20th century are on display. The second section…

Numismatic Museum

Established in 1834 and running as one of the oldest public museums in Greece, the Numismatic Museum houses one of the greatest collections of ancient and modern coins in the world. Said to be one of the most important Greek museums, the museum itself is housed in the former mansion of Heinrich Schliemann, a famous…

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main historical sights to see in Athens?

The Acropolis, including the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are some of Athens' primary historical sights.

Where can I explore traditional neighborhoods in Athens?

Plaka and Anafiotika are well-known neighborhoods in Athens where you can experience traditional architecture and local culture.

How can I visit the Acropolis Museum in Athens?

The Acropolis Museum is open daily, but it’s best to check the website for current hours and ticket information before visiting.

Is there public transport available to major sights in Athens?

Yes, Athens has a comprehensive public transport system including metro, buses, and trams that connect key sightseeing areas.

When is the best time of day to visit the Parthenon in Athens?

Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to visit the Parthenon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Can I see ancient ruins outside of the Acropolis in Athens?

Yes, sites like the Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, and Hadrian's Library offer additional ancient ruins throughout Athens.

Do Athens attractions offer guided tours?

Many Athens attractions provide guided tours, but it is advisable to check each site’s official website for availability and booking options.

Where can I see modern street art in Athens?

The neighborhood of Psiri in Athens is known for its vibrant street art and murals.

What attractions in Athens are suitable for families?

The National Garden, Athens Zoo, and the interactive exhibits at the Hellenic Children’s Museum offer family-friendly experiences.

How long should I plan to visit the Acropolis complex in Athens?

Visiting the Acropolis complex typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the various monuments and museum.

Explore Sights and Attractions Categories

Athens Museums (29 places) Athens Museums in Athens showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and history. From ancient artifacts to modern art, these museums offer a glimpse into the diverse and fascinating past of Athens. The Acropolis Museum is a must-visit, housing an extensive collection of archaeological finds from the Acropolis site… Explore

Archaeological Sites (13 places) Athens is a treasure trove of archaeological sites that offer unparalleled insight into the city's rich history. From the iconic Acropolis with its majestic Parthenon to the ancient Agora where Socrates once walked, these sites are a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The Acropolis, perched on a hill overlooking the… Explore

Galleries (3 places) Discover the vibrant art scene of Athens through its diverse array of galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional works. From avant-garde installations to classical paintings, the galleries in Athens offer a unique insight into the city's rich cultural heritage. Take a stroll through the streets of Plaka and… Explore

Libraries (1 places) Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, is not only known for its ancient ruins and historic sites but also for its rich literary culture. The city is home to numerous libraries that cater to a wide range of interests and offer a diverse collection of books, manuscripts, and other resources. Whether you are a history… Explore

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Acropolis Portuguese Guide Tour & Fast-Track Ticket

2 hours via GetYourGuide

Local PickDeal

Tour the Acropolis in Portuguese with a licensed professional guide. Skip the line when booking the option with prearranged admission. Follow the southern slope for a relaxed ascent and panoramic views of Athens. See the Theatre of Dionysus, Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Caryatids. Understand the Acropolis through…

Cooking Class & Dinner at a Roof Garden in Athens

3 hours via GetYourGuide

Local PickDeal

Savor the flavors of Greece with a cooking class and meal in Athens. Learn how to prepare a traditional Greek meal with a professional chef. Enjoy a glass of wine as you cook and dine on the rooftop of a holiday complex. Prepare a menu of Greek dishes, including tzatziki and mussaka. Take in the views of the city…

Athens Highlights Shore Excursion from Piraeus Port

1 hours 15 minutes via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Skip the crowds and explore authentic Athens. Visit Kastella, Nea Smyrni, and the Stavros Niarchos Cultural Center. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square. Capture stunning views of the Acropolis from below. Meet your guide at the terminal parking area and board the tour coach for a journey through…

Acropolis Small Group (max: 8) Guided Tour

2 hours via GetYourGuide

Local PickDeal

This small group tour (maximum 8 people) of the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens suits history enthusiasts and culture travelers seeking a relaxed and informative experience. Small guided group tour for a personalized experience. Discover myths and legends of the Acropolis and Parthenon. Take photos in front of the…

Milos Jeep Safari: Sunset, Off-Road & Hidden Hilltop Gems

4 hours via GetYourGuide

Local PickSkip the Line

Explore Milos in stylish Jeep Wranglers with a professional driver and guide. Discover hidden treasures and iconic sights in a small, semi-private group. Scenic stops at Mandrakia, Sarakiniko, Theorichio, and Panagia Tourliani. Picnic with cheese & fruit platters and unlimited soft drinks, wine & beer. Experience a…

From Athens - Customizable Private Full-Day Trip to Delphi

9 hours via GetYourGuide

Local PickSkip the Line

Operated by Greece Revealed — private tours by a lifelong Greek history expert. Travel in a Tesla — smooth, silent, and comfortable. Explore Delphi's UNESCO sanctuary, ancient theatre, and archaeological museum. Discover Arachova — mountain village famous for its cheese and stunning views. A local expert who adapts…

Twilight Athens Tour inc. rooftops, tastings & 3 drinks

3 hours 30 minutes via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Enjoy a twilight walking tour of Athens with a small group. Visit famous sites and squares, hearing urban myths and legends. Explore three local bars, sampling award-winning Greek wines and spirits. Savor a plate of traditional meze, Greece's local tapas. Experience Athenian nightlife just like the locals do. Even as…

Ferry Journey between Athens and Aegina Island

40 minutes via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Feel the sea breeze as you sail from Athens or Aegina Island on a modern ferry. Choose a one-way ticket for flexible visit or a same-day return. Relax on board with comfortable seating and stunning sea views. Soak in the Aegean sun and sea views from the open-air deck. Explore Aegina's beaches, pistachio groves, and…

From Athens - Agios Loukas Gorge Canyoning Experience

4 hours via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Try canyoning with no prior experience needed. Complete five small abseils in Agios Loukas Gorge. Explore waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Learn to use canyoning equipment with 2 certified canyoning guides. Refuel with a picnic lunch after canyoning with the hotel transfer option. As the canyon does not have a…

An Athenian Street Food Adventure (15 Tastings)

3 hours via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Visit 10 food and drink stops for 22 tastings. Enjoy enough food to replace a full lunch or dinner. Savor one freshly shucked oyster on selected daytime departures. Explore hidden Athens spots with local stories and souvenir tips. Sample a local Athenian street-food specialty at a secret stop…

Athens Center to Athens Airport Private Departure Transfer

1 days via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Luxury car with a fluent English speaking driver. All taxes, fees and handling charges. Private transportation. Experience a 45-minute luxury transfer service from Athens city center, or your downtown hotel or rental, to Athens International Airport. The driver will escort you to the car, help you with luggages. Our…

Greek Wine Tasting and Picnic on Philopappou Hill

2 hours via GetYourGuide

Local Pick

Savor the rich world of Greek wine with a guided tasting and picnic in Athens. Taste 4 distinct wines from native Greek grape varieties. Learn about the origins and production methods of Greek wines. Pair your wines with fresh sourdough bread, local cheese, evoo and olives. Enjoy a scenic walk to a quiet picnic spot…

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