Steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance, Athens tops many lists of where to go in Greece for the first time. Greece’s capital is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, where travelers can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Ancient Greece.
Beyond the historical sites, Athens has a delicious gastronomic scene, electric nightlife, and vibrant energy.
So yes, Athens is absolutely worth visiting. Here are 10 reasons why everyone should visit Athens at least once in their lifetime.
Is Athens worth visiting
There are many reasons to visit Athens, even though this city is often overlooked by the Greek Islands.
Athens is Greece’s capital and largest city, but it’s also so much more. You can only have a full Greek experience by spending some time here. Therefore, I’m sharing why I love Athens and why you should visit at least once.
Historically, Athens is known for being at the forefront of early civilization, labeled as the birthplace of democracy and home to some of the most famous philosophers. Even today, the city can literally transport you back in time. And that’s what I love about Athens.
History
Athens has a wealth of history. Many foundations of Western society originated in this city. Whether that’s the foundation of democracy or philosophical ideas, the importance of these contributions does not diminish with time. You will learn incredible things and be humbled by the places where such monumental things have happened.
The museums
The museums in Athens are the perfect place to connect all the historical info you will learn while visiting. You are truly spoiled for choice here, with many museums in the city center alone. You just need to decide which ones you’d like to visit!
The archeological sites
Athens is home to many significant historical archaeological sites, and their presence and preservation make the city incredibly special. The leading site and the city’s defining feature is the Acropolis, which attracts over a million visitors annually, but many other places also deserve your attention. They are clustered within walking distance around the city and are often much less crowded.
The hidden gems
In Athens, there are constantly things to explore and places to find. You’ll find something new every single day. The narrow, sprawling alleyways can lead you to the city’s hidden gems, charming streets, quirky bars, and cute cafes. Stroll around and have fun spotting them!
The islands
Athens is only 30 minutes from Piraeus, the biggest port in Greece, where you can find the ferries that frequently run to many gorgeous island destinations.
So visit Athens first, then hop on the ferry for a fantastic beach vacation on Mykonos or Santorini!?
The coast
If you can’t visit the islands, the Athens Riviera offers plenty of beaches and is just 25 km from the city.
You can see the Vouliagmeni coastal town, one of the most exclusive seaside towns on the Riviera. Glamorous, laid-back, and lively, Vouliagmeni is an excellent alternative to the noise and traffic of central Athens.
Lake Vouliagmeni is nearby and situated over a natural thermal spring. The high concentration of salts and minerals offers many recognized therapeutic benefits.
The shopping
The boutique shops have many local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.
Plaka
It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye, and grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too.
Psirri
Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world, peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine.
Anthologist
For those seeking an all-around shop where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist. The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase.
Athens is rising
Athens is once again a premier destination. It’s recognized for its incredible architectural beauty, history, culture, and culinary offerings. This vibrant city is no longer a stopover but a city to be celebrated, explored, and appreciated.
The nightlife
Athens comes to life when the sun goes down (and the temperature :)). There are plenty of things to do in the city that never seem to sleep.
The city has many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that can cater to everyone’s taste. And they are full of people having dinner or drinks with friends. This bustling energy is inspiring. Go out and have fun!
Best time to visit
There’s no wrong time to visit Athens, but spring shoulder season is charming. I was last in Athens in March 2024, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded. It just felt good.
Indeed, the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures. So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.
How to get there
By Air: Travelers from around the world can fly to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offer direct flights from the U.S.
By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Royal Caribbean, and more.
There are several options to get to the city from the airport.
Private transfer: The most convenient way is to pre-book a transfer. You can ask your hotel to arrange it or use a reputable service provider.
Taxi—a taxi will cost about €40-50, depending on your destination. Be prepared for long lines, especially if your trip is during peak season.
Metro—You can also take the metro. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machine, and the airport transfer ticket is separately indicated. I don’t recommend it when you have lots of luggage. Also, it can be crowded, and there can be delays, cancellations, or strikes.
Getting around Athens
By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. If you can’t drive a manual, just book an automatic as early as possible, as they tend to be in short supply.
By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer.
By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system that can quickly get you around the city. There’s also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Athena ticket, which starts at €1.20.
By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. This is the way to go if you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes. You never know what you may find along the way.
Day trips from Athens
Athens is ideally located for a road trip. If you have the time, you can see some of the other popular destinations in Greece.
- Cape Sounion is the southernmost point of the Athens Riviera and is only 70 km from the city. It will take just over an hour to get here. You can rent a car, drive there, or take a guided tour. After a day of swimming and sun, there are many beaches, tavernas, and bars to head to. The Temple of Poseidon is situated on a hill overlooking the sea, which makes it all the more stunning with the blue Aegean as a backdrop.
- Delphi is an important historical site located 180 km northwest of Athens. There are regular bus services from Athens, so having a car is unnecessary. Delphi is home to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Its significance is globally recognized and a journey many people take while visiting Greece.
Where to stay in Athens
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens is in a prime location along the Athens Riviera. It provides ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city’s major attractions.
Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collectionideals
The Grande Bretagne is a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrated 150 years of history in 2023. From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.
Gatsby Athens
There’s no better place for a genuinely central stay in the city than the Gatsby Athens. Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Guests will find a playful space filled with Art Deco touches and an excellent food and beverage program. Just take advantage of the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city.
The Dolli at Acropolis
Plenty of Athenian hotels are set within sight of the Parthenon, but few do as much with the view as the Dolli at Acropolis. It’s set in a neoclassical building from 1925, to which has been added a rooftop infinity pool and an upscale international restaurant that takes in an extraordinary panorama. And what’s inside is far from shabby — this is not just a stylish boutique hotel but a luxurious one as well. The high ceilings and oversized windows make the rooms feel even larger than they are, and the décor is both visually distinctive and tastefully high-end.
Where to eat in Athens
Greek cuisine is fantastic, and you’ll love the fresh Mediterranean food.
Lunch spots
Athénée
An Athenian landmark, Zonar’s (recently renamed Athénée) somehow combines the elements of an all-day coffee shop, trans-generational meeting place, trendy night spot, fine-dining restaurant, and quality sushi bar without bursting at the seams.
With its wood paneling, velvet booths, fireplace, and signature copper canopy over the bar, Athénée is the metropolitan haunt fit for visitors staying in the upscale hotels in and around Syntagma Square.
The prices are steep, and the service could be better, but the setup is comfortable and grand. And besides, you pay to enjoy one of the best “tableaux vivants” the city offers.
Dinner at MAKRIS Athens by Domes
If you are in Athens, visit the MAKRIS Athens Restaurant by Domes.
The restaurant is located in the historical center of Athens, opposite the Acropolis and next to the ancient market. It is in an Ottoman building that was the first inn in Greece. Even today, ancient findings are preserved beneath the restaurant’s glass floor, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.
Chef Patron and his team aim to capture the Greekness and tradition of the place in every dish on the degustation menus. The restaurant has a farm in the foothills of Corinth, where organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, olives, and vines are grown. This also ensures a steady supply of exceptional ingredients sourced from local producers. Two degustation menus are available, offering 8 and 13 courses, respectively. The wine list comprises 250 labels from Greek and international vineyards, while signature cocktails have been crafted to perfectly complement the dishes.
Cocktails at Rooftop Bar
Between Acropolis and Syntagma Square, you should take a well-deserved rest and enjoy the city from above by visiting some of the best Athens rooftop bars.
While not packed with high-rise buildings, Athens still looks mighty impressive from above. The climate is usually perfect for al fresco dining and drinking, preferably with an Acropolis view. Just scroll down to find the Athens rooftop bar that is best for you.
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate breakfast spot, a rooftop bar with unreal views, the perfect place for sunset drinks, or a romantic dinner with a view, here are some of the city’s best spots. Each place offers unparalleled views of the Acropolis, served with a side of exquisite dining and premium cocktails.
NYX Rooftop
Located on top of the Academias Hotel, in the heart of Athens downtown, NYX is an elevated lifestyle entry into the Athenian gastro-scene. Highly chic and glamorous, the rooftop blends panoramic interior seating with a beautiful outdoor terrace, all surrounded by amazing 360° views over Athens. The NYX menu includes elegant dishes influenced by Japanese gastronomy, tastefully blended with crafted signature cocktails. This prime Athens rooftop is open nightly for a truly unique dining and drinking experience.
Dolli’s Rooftop Restaurant
An unforgettable culinary experience embracing the Acropolis.
The rooftop all-day bar & restaurant on the fifth floor is the hotel’s ‘pièce de résistance,’ Overlooking the Athenian panorama, untouched captivating landmarks, and vivid moments. Cultivating an exceptional savoir-faire with the finest ingredients. Celebrating the essence of graceful indulgence.
Check out our complete guide to the best rooftop bars in Athens, which will take you straight to the top of elevated venues.
What to do in Athens
There are so many exciting things to do in Athens that it can be hard to decide what to do. This iconic destination, steeped in ancient history and filled with delicious food options, is often only visited for a day or two before heading to one of the Greek Islands.
I’ve been to Athens twice and love the city; this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.
From ancient monuments and medieval churches to world-class museums and high-end boutiques, Athens has much to do. One of the main reasons to visit is to roam the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, exploring their stunning ruins. But you also want to save time for the exhibits housed at the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum, as well as Plaka’s historic streets. Depending on when you visit, you can take in a theatrical performance at the Herod Atticus Odeon.
To visit the best archeological sites, purchase this Athens Combo Ticket, where you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to major Athens Attractions. The combination ticket includes the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, Aristotle’s School, and the Ancient Cemetery. Plus, access to Hadrian’s Library and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Have you fallen in love with Athens? Save this post for your future trip!
Athens is a safe destination and perfect for a female solo trip. Start planning your vacation!
