fun things to do in athens, greece

Getting Here: Unless you take a taxi right to the Lycabettus Cable Car station, expect to do some walking, and a lot of that will be uphill. Indian Haveli. To get to the top, you can either hike up or take the funicular. The 8 most popular outdoor adventures in Greece We have some tips to help you plan. Hotel Lozenge offers gorgeous designs and easy access to top-notch boutiques nearby and even a bike rental for further exploring! We took the metro to Omonia station and then it was a 10-minute walk to the museum. The Benaki Museum houses Greek works of art from prehistory to modern time, as well as an extensive collection of Asian art. Take a walk along the seafront in Hydra Town, visit the museums, then paddle in the turquoise waters that lap against the shore. Athens Gate Hotel. Have a Picnic at Lycabettus Hill. Should we try to see the islands or is it too late in the year? In the reign of Pericles, in the 5th century BC, the hilltop was deemed a religious sanctuary. You can walk inside giant aviaries and travel through the African savannah where giraffes and zebra roam. Built in the 6th century BC, the temple has weathered war, storms, and political tyrants over the years. You can upgrade the tour to a private tour add on a food tour in the Old Town after your visit to the Acropolis. Take a closer look at the intricate frieze on the faade, and soak up the views, which are particularly spectacular at sunset. Will you prefer the bougatsas (pasties) or loukoumades (honey dumpings)? Temple of Hephaestus | Best Things to Do in Athens. There are over 4,000 exhibits to check out, so make sure you leave plenty of time. Settle into your seat and ascend skywards for your 6-course Greek banquet. First of all, it dates back to 330 BC. Smak is a street food restaurant that serves pizza and peinirli (a boat-shaped Greek pizza). The most popular viewpoint is located at the Monument of Philopappos, but you can also follow the other trails for a slightly different perspective of the Acropolis. Corinth was one of the first European cities to embrace Christianity and is famous for its rich archaeological heritage. When you fancy a rest, just land at one of the secluded beaches and go for a dip in the warm sea. At the top you will find the little 19th century Chapel of St. George, a restaurant and a coffee area, and also a large open-air . Here at the Frissiras Museum, youll discover the biggest collection of modern European paintings in the country. It is also the location where the Apostle Paul gave one of his most important speeches. There is a lot of history and legend here. Walk along Polignotou. Inspired by nature and the architectural heritage of their homeland, the young creators have come up with some mind-blowing 3D works, as well as paintings and sketches. There's something magical about taking a stroll from Thissio to Plaka along Polignotou at night. The capital of Greece is the perfect place to get your dose of ancient history while taking in the vibrant Greek culture. Swing by the local market and breathe in the scent of spices and fruits. If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. This really is life! Youll be exploring remote hill towns, medieval citadels and Venetian fortresses on this mini expedition around the Peloponnese. We took the metro to Omonia Station to visit the National Archaeological Museum (but you can also use Victoria Station). At the foot of Filopappou Hill, this 16th-century church may not be the oldest in Athens, but it is certainly one of the loveliest, with a heavy timber roof, marble floors and the permanent scent of incense. Whether you want to splurge on a luxury hotel or stay in hostel with glowing reviews, get recommendations in our article Where to Stay in Athens: Best Hotels for Your Budget. Looking for places for small beautiful hikes. Search for free among 1,500,000 tours in every destination around the world! Then head to Mycenae in the Peloponnese and wander around one of the great centers of ancient Greek civilization. This one is for all aspiring super sleuths looking for unusual things to do in Athens. Cost: 10 summer months, 5 winter months, included on the combination ticket with the Acropolis (30) Hours: Hours vary by season; get updated hours here. It's gratifying to discover iconic sculptures of Western art history here, like the bronze figure of a bearded god and the disputed hammered gold death mask of Agamemnon, as you stroll through the galleries. Highlights include friezes, statues and pots from the Parthenon. 1. 11 Best Things to Do in Athens | U.S. News Travel Theres a botanical museum to explore, and kids love meeting the wolves and monkeys in the small zoo. Follow in the footsteps of Socrates and his various political and philosophical cohorts at the Agora, the heart of ancient Athens' civic life and the birthplace of democracy. Head out on the Arachthos River to navigate some gentle rapids, while enjoying spectacular views of waterfalls and the jaggedly beautiful Tzoumerka Mountains. It comes in handy if you plan to use the metro a lot, especially if you also plan to take the metro to the airport or Piraeus port. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon temple has watched over the city since the 5th century BC. This was our favorite restaurant in Athens. This market and collection of buildings was built in the first century BC during the rule of Julius and Augustus Caesar. So take the kids, put on some comfortable shoes and explore one of the oldest cities in the world. In winter time, Athens is an ideal destination for a weekend escape or city break. The Ancient Agora is an archaeological site located near the Acropolis. Philopappou hill is a beautiful park with great views of the Acropolis. When finished, it was one of the largest ever of the ancient temples, with 104 unusually tall columns, each 17.25 meters tall. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Athens if you're looking for a breathtaking viewpoints. Greece & Croatia. Dont worry if youre a Segway virgin, youll soon get your balance. What is it? Or, you can choose to walk all of the way to the top on a paved trail that switchbacks its way up the hill. Learn more about Acropolis skip-the-line tickets. Strap into a simulator and feel the thrills of Formula 1 racing as you fly around the track at the Hellenic Motor Museum. In this hidden gem, youll discover the largest collection of prehistoric Aegean art in the world. On Sundays, a flea market dominates the square. Share it! For a sprawling view of Athens and the Acropolis, walk or take the Lycabettus Cable Car to the peak of Mount Lycabettus. Look hard enough, and youll find some buried treasure (and if not, some insight into how modern Greeks have furnished their homes for the past 60 years). Filled with great restaurants, unique bars, a vibrant nightlife, and small boutique shops, this is a very cool spot to go out for dinner and drinks. Cost: 15 April 1 to October 31; 10 November 1 to March 31 Hours: The Acropolis Museum is open daily. A great 1732 fresco of St Dimitrios, astride his horse in a pose copied from ancient images of Alexander the Great, adorns the interior. Escape the bustle of the city center and head up to leafy Plaka. Three days lets you visit Athens at a more leisurely pace, visit more museums, take a day trip, and go shopping. Where should I go to see sites from Greek mythology? Snorkeling, cooking classes, and Segway tours are all worthy contenders. The older and more interesting streets are located closer to the Acropolis. This tiny Athens neighborhood is part of ancient Plaka. per adult (price varies by group size) LIKELY TO SELL OUT*. THE 10 BEST Indoor Things to Do in Athens (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor Here you can sail to hidden lagoons for swimming and picnics, or amble through cobbled streets admiring the local architecture. 1 Visit The National Archeological Museum. Check out the cheese and meat plates at Karamanlidika, the elegant fare at Lithos Tavern, or the hearty dishes at Tavern Klimataria. Psyrri (aka Psyri, Psiri, Psirri) is a funky, trendy little neighborhood not far from Monastiraki. You can alight at all the major landmarks, so this is an easy way to explore the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, and the Parthenon. THE 10 BEST Fun Activities & Games in Athens (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor Cheers, Julie. Be Chauffeured Around Athens in a Golf Buggy. The cost is 30 and well worth it if you plan to visit the Acropolis and at least two of the other sites. Food always tastes better outdoors, but what about at 165 feet in the air? The best time to visit Athens: everything you need to know, 10 places to escape the cold and find winter sun in Europe, 10 European winter vacation ideas from the northern lights to ancient sites, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Take a break from the city on a day trip to the Argolis peninsula in the picture-postcard Peloponnese. There are also objects rescued from a shipwreck dating back to the 4th century BC, and a whole host of vases, sculptures, and even hieroglyphs. Hold onto your hats as you ride the Loop It roller coaster, and dont look down on the Shock and Drop tower plunge. Grand Hyatt Athens is filled with glamor, with its contemporary restaurants, stunning views, and a pool and spa perfect for relaxing. Cant decide which glorious Greek islands to include on your week-long itinerary? Legend has it that Delphi is the center of the Earth, so come and stand here yourself, and feel the mythical magic that surrounds this famous sanctuary. Try contemporary Greek food at Hytra Restaurant & Bar, or the seafood at Orizontes Lycabettus. Marvel at the dazzling array of spices, cheeses and honey, then taste some of the local delicacies in one of the restaurants. However, there are two important places to visit (the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos). Starting in the wee hours, Greek vendors bellow out their best deals in an attempt to . The final resting place of both Greeks and foreigners, this serene sanctuary boasts eminent statesmen, artists and writers as its residents. Located in Syntagma Square near the Hellenic Parliament Building, this is a war memorial that is dedicated to the Greek soldiers who died in war. In 1896, it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympics. Embrace a dash of whimsy as you enjoy a rip-roaring family day out at Allou! Top 10 Things to Do in Athens Greece - Discover Athens Rising up from the center of Athens is the Acropolis, a fortified limestone plateau that is topped with the Parthenon and several other historical monuments. The building is picturesque too, with its Neo-Classical design. 1 - Gaze out over Athens from the Acropolis Don't leave Athens without making a pilgrimage to the Acropolis. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest. TOP 16 THINGS TO DO In ATHENS in 2023 - The Tour Guy Bus takes a long time do you think taxi is a viable alternative? Visit the Oldest House in Athens The Benizelou Mansion is the only Ottoman-era residence that survives in Athens. The area was also the ceremonial entrance into ancient Athens, and while the gates no longer stand and the arriving road is now a paved city street, it's still an interesting place to pause and imagine the activity that would've taken place here. Then check out the monastery, hike along pine-clad slopes, orgo snorkeling in one of the bays. The 10 Night Greece & Adriatic Cruise visits Venice, Italy; Bay of Kotor, Montenegro; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Mykonos, Greece; Santorini, Greece; Athens, Greece; Ephesus, Turkey; Split, Croatia and Venice, Italy. See if you can spy the Acropolis and the coast of Piraeus from the rocky limestone summit. Read all of our articles in our Greece Travel Guide. Melia Athens boasts a spa, sauna, pool, and hot tub, so you can spoil yourself rotten and if you want to go out, the nearest metro station is a five minute walk! Im planning a week-long trip to the Greek islands this summer. The Balkan and Greco-Turkish Wars are both represented, as well as the First and Second World Wars. See if you can trace the remnants of Athens' past: the Roman Agora, the Old University, the Tower & the Bath House of the Winds, the Benizelos Mansion, the Monument of Lysicrates and all the lovely Byzantine churches. Book a transfer to and from Athens Airport, and youll be dropped off right at your hotel! Sitting on and around this hill are several very important sites. Whether youre dreaming of dreamy Mediterranean beaches, ancient allure, or buzzing city life, these are the best times to visit Greece. This countryside backwater in the Peloponnese hides one of the best-preserved Hellenic theaters in Greece, and its still in use today. In summer, the customary get-up gets so hot that these guards have to be dabbed at with tissues, as they are unable to move from their positions protecting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Whitewashed houses with brightly-colored window frames cling to the side of the Acropolis, creating a scene beloved of photographers. It has a large collection of coins, dating as far back as 1400 BC. If you want to limit your walking, you can use the fast, easy to use metro to hop around Athens. Whether you prefer aroma oils, straightforward massages, or a little bit of everything, there are some excellent options all over town. Hiring a private driver is another option. THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI: For a full list of things to do, read our article Best Things to Do in Santorini. Theres a large pool where you can rent sailboats and kayaks if you fancy a splash on the water. Sightseeing in Athens isnt all about temples. Climb Philopappos Hill. The Varvakeios Market is another great spot to take a break from museums and ancient historical sites. View from A for Athens rooftop bar | Best Things to Do in Athens. If you only have one day, I also recommend visiting the Acropolis Museum, several of the sites on the combination ticket (the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, etc), explore Plaka, and have dinner or a drink at a rooftop restaurant. Taste traditional Greek dishes in Plaka or on a food tour. From the temples to the mountains and everywhere in between, Greeces capital hums with energy. However, the most elaborate display takes place at 11 am on Sunday when a group of soldiers march to the tomb. The Philopappos Monument and hill is easily one of the most interesting things to do in Athens, Greece during your Greek vacation. The ground of this large site is littered with the ruins of buildings and walkways. In the sunlight, this city literally sparkles. Cost: 12 April 1 to October 31; 6 November 1 to March 31 Hours: April 1 to October 31: Tuesday 1:00 pm to 8 pm; Wednesday through Monday 8 am to 8 pm; reduced hours November 1 to March 31 Website: get updated hours and pricing on the official website Skip-the-line Ticket: You can purchase a skip-the-line ticket here. Previously the Royal Garden, this park has all the pergolas, palms and peacocks you could wish for. The Cycladic Art Museum is home to over 3,000 exhibits, with the Cycladic marble figurines being the jewels in the crown. Cheers, Julie. How Many Days Should You Spend in Athens? Head out to sea on a day trip to the tiny island of Poros. Our website uses cookies. Exclusively featuring works by budding artists under the age of 15, the museum showcases over 10,000 individual exhibits. ), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. 15 Things To Do In Athens For A Memorable Vacay In 2023 Quirky doesnt even begin to describe this fairytale-inspired coffee shop, which appeals to kids of all ages! You can also book some great multi-day trips from the capital itself, and explore nearby wonders such as the monasteries of Meteora and the legendary ruins of Delphi. Feel the rush of adrenaline as the chute finally opens, giving you time to take in those views. However, there is more than beef and lamb for sale at the market. We ate dinner here and honestly, we thought the food was mediocre, especially for the price. As a kind of counterpoint to the pure classicism celebrated elsewhere in the city's archaeological sites, the Benaki collection tells the story of how Greece has absorbed foreign influences and ideas to create its uniquely syncretic culture. Dedicated to the ancient god of fire, the temple is a superb example of Doric architecture. Acropolis The greatest symbol of the glory of Ancient Greece, the Acropolis rises spectacularly in the center of Athens. Is a very popular one day destination for greek and tourists for checking more idyllic scenery. Acropolis Source: anyaivanova / shutterstock Acropolis There's nothing we can tell you that hasn't been said many times about Athens' ancient citadel. Get updated hours and pricing on the official website. Weve put together a detailed 10-day itinerary to show you the best Greece has to offer. 10 Things To Do In Athens, Greece During Your First Time There - TheTravel The Acropolis Museum is an archeological museum that houses the artifacts found on the Acropolis and the surrounding slopes. Watch out for the jaguars and rare white lions. Back up on the Acropolis, youll find another archaeological gem. The Temple of Hephaistos is exquisite and very well preserved; see how many of the Labors of Hercules you can identify on the frieze. Cycle around the base of the Acropolis, breeze past the fountains in Omonoia Square, and stop at Ancient Agora. I also recommend very much taking a one day trip to closest graphic island Aegina. In 144 AD, it was reconstructed in marble by Herodes Atticus. Other surprises await, including frescoes from Santorini upstairs. Book a table in the restaurant and be treated to sumptuous meze platters laden with pastourma, sausages and baklava. Just as pilgrims of millennia past made their way to worship here, you can ascend the marble steps on the west side to find yourself dwarfed by the towering columns of the magnificent Parthenon. Athens is one of the worlds oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years. Discover archaeological treasures as old as time itself in the Acropolis Museum. We have not been to Olympia yet so Im not sure. In the Cyclades Islands, you can enjoy awesome nightlife, mellow traditional villages, and plenty of watersports in Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, and Santorini. 4. We spent a few days in Athens and then went right to the islands. Do so, and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Athens and the thrill of heights! This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2023. Many of the finest grave markers are replicas; the originals are on display at the small, absorbing on-site museum. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Go beyond the Parthenon, though, and you'll discover a more youthful side to the city with new art galleries, languid caf culture, and outdoor cinemas. Two guards are always in residence here, dressed in traditional evzones costume, a tasseled fez hat, thick kilt and stockinged legs with pom-pom shoes. Here are the 10 things to do in Athens, Greece with kids: Climb up the Acropolis Check out some of the Byzantine churches and a 17th-century monastery modest clothing is advised if you wish to enter. The canal makes it much easier today! How about a hotel that has a rooftop pool with amazing views over Athens? Edem beach. Youll be navigating through rivers and olive groves, and checking out churches and ancient theaters along the way. Kerameikos is an area of Athens that served as potters quarters and an ancient cemetery. Seeing a performance here will be a highlight of your trip, but there are plenty of free things to do and see as well, including meandering through the stunningly beautiful Stavros Niarchos Park. Along with saving time and effort when you arrive, these services include helpful drivers that can give you the run-down on the city a great way to start the trip! They are approachable with public transportation. Search for missing archaeologists, uncover buried treasure and unravel Greek myths on your mission to get to the finish line. ATHENS: Plan your visit to Athens with our 2 Days in Athens Itinerary. You can purchase individual metro tickets for each journey (a good idea if you only plan to use the metro once or twice). Youll be swimming with colorful fish as they dart along the sandy bottom can you keep up with them? It's said that at Hadrian's inauguration in AD 120, a thousand wild animals were sacrificed in the arena. In the sweltering summer months, take the A1 tram to the Palaio Faliro neighborhood for a palm tree-lined promenade and a soft, sandy beach. The Acropolis finds itself at the very top of our list. Athens gets hot in the summer. Youve tasted the powerful ouzo and sipped delectable wine, but have you ever tried Greek beer? Bordered by five-star hotels and the Old Royal Palace, Syntagma Square lies at the heart of modern Athens. Come on a Sunday for the famous flea market and pick up a bargain or spend a sunny afternoon at a pavement caf in the shadow of some of the citys ancient sites. To fully appreciate Greece's long and rich history, travelers should pay a visit to the National Archeological Museum on their first trip to Athens. Youll find the blissful island of Aegina in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, just a short hop across the water from Athens. Athens isnt short of museums, but this one is particularly special. By day, the leafy central neighborhoods of Pangrati and Exarhia are packed with locals spilling out from kafeneions (Greek cafes) and into the streets, philosophizing (a favorite activity of any Greek), playing backgammon on marble table tops and sipping slowly on a cuppa. 16 best things to do in Athens - Lonely Planet Areopagus Hill, also known as Mars Hill, is a spot to get one of the most iconic views of the Acropolis. Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Small-Group Tour from Athens. Fun and educational, this family-friendly attraction is great on a rainy day. All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks Nightlife Boat Tours & Water Sports Fun & Games Museums Classes & Workshops Spas & Wellness Nature & Parks Water & Amusement Parks Casinos & Gambling Then youll be right at home in this vast Roman concert arena. Its packed with exhibits from local excavations and is housed in the majestic Stoa of Attalos see if you can count the towering columns! Sign up to explore This is Athens with a Local. Athenians have been watching performances at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus for over 2,000 years, and now you can too! This is a historic stadium and a lot of big events have occurred here. Ermou Street is a pedestrian street lined with popular stores like H&M, Sephora and Mango. History buffs will love seeing galleries full of artifacts and documents from many of the major European conflicts. We are staying in Athens for 5 days. Keep an eye out for ghostly goings-on. Wander around one of humankinds greatest architectural achievements and follow in the footsteps of legendary Greek heroes. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. But I found this from Lonely Planet. The Lycabettus Hill, located in central Athens, is the highest peak of the city center with a lovely view.You can reach the hilltop either with the funicular railway (which costs 7 euros both ways) or by walking through an easy pathway (approximately 15-20 mins). The average high temperature during the summer months is 34C (94F). THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Athens with Kids (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. Youll see twice as much in half the time! 5. With every footstep, you are retracing the paths of Western civilization; with each sight, sound, and taste, you can enjoy its dynamic present-day form. 1. The city's ancient necropolis is home to the Street of Tombs, where classical VIPs were interred. Greece vs Croatia: discover which European country is right for you. If you have: We do not want to drive. Take a look at our 10 day itinerary. The largest botanical garden in Greece is a haven of tranquility for those looking for a slice of nature and seclusion. Any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks for your guide. 2. Discover the many charms and conveniences of traveling off-season: the top European destinations to visit this winter. THE 10 BEST Athens Fun Activities & Games Fun Activities & Games in Athens Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Classes & Workshops Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Sights & Landmarks

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