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Athens Travel Guide

The Ultimate Athens Travel Guide: History, Culture, and Cuisine

By Fred Edward updated on October 28, 2024

Athens, Greece, is a city rich in history, culture, and attractions. Here is our list of some of the top things to do in Athens:

1. Visit the Acropolis: The Acropolis is the most iconic site in Athens and home to several ancient structures, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. It offers breathtaking views of the city and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

2. Explore the Acropolis Museum: Located at the base of the Acropolis, this modern museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis site. It provides valuable context and insights into ancient Greek history and art.

3. Wander through Plaka: Plaka is one of Athens' oldest and most charming neighborhoods. It features narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, traditional tavernas, and shops selling souvenirs and crafts. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll.

4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of Greek antiquities, including sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and artifacts from various historical periods. It's one of the world's top archaeological museums.

5. Discover the Ancient Agora: This archaeological site was the heart of ancient Athens and includes well-preserved ruins like the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. It's a fascinating glimpse into daily life in ancient Greece.

6. Stroll through Syntagma Square: Syntagma Square is home to the Hellenic Parliament and the historic Grande Bretagne Hotel. You can watch the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Parliament building.

7. Explore Monastiraki: This vibrant neighborhood is famous for its flea market, where you can shop for antiques, jewelry, clothing, and more. It's also a great place to enjoy street food and soak up the atmosphere.

8. Ascend Mount Lycabettus: For panoramic views of Athens, hike or take a funicular ride to the top of Mount Lycabettus. It's especially beautiful at sunset.

9. Explore the Benaki Museum: The Benaki Museum is known for its diverse collections of Greek art, from prehistoric times to the modern era. It offers insights into Greek culture, history, and art.

10. Visit the National Garden of Athens: This lush oasis in the heart of the city offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. You'll find walking paths, ponds, and a variety of plants and wildlife.

Remember to check the opening hours and any entry requirements for these attractions, as they may vary. Athens has a lot to offer, whether you're interested in history, art, food, or simply enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere.

Where to stay: The Athens Gate Hotel. Address: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 10, Athina 117 41, Greece

Athens offers a rich culinary tradition with a wide variety of delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the best things to eat in Athens:

Souvlaki: This is perhaps Greece's most famous street food. Souvlaki consists of small pieces of grilled meat, often served in a pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
Moussaka: A beloved Greek dish, moussaka is a layered casserole made with eggplant, minced meat (usually beef or lamb), tomatoes, and a creamy bechamel sauce.
Tzatziki: This yogurt-based dip is made with cucumbers, garlic, and olive oil. It's a refreshing and tangy accompaniment to many Greek dishes.
Greek Salad (Horiatiki): A classic Greek salad is a refreshing combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil and oregano.
Spanakopita: These are savory spinach and feta-filled pastries wrapped in layers of flaky phyllo dough. They are delicious as a snack or appetizer.
Pastitsio: Similar to lasagna, pastitsio is a baked pasta dish made with macaroni, ground meat, and a creamy bechamel sauce. It's hearty and flavorful.
Saganaki: This is a fried cheese dish, often made with kefalograviera cheese. It's typically served flaming at your table after being doused in ouzo or brandy.
Octopus: Greece's proximity to the sea means you can enjoy fresh and tender grilled octopus. It's often served with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.
Dolmades: These are stuffed grape leaves, typically filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. They are served cold and make for a great appetizer.
Loukoumades: For dessert, try loukoumades, which are deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed nuts. They're incredibly indulgent and delicious.

Remember that Greek cuisine varies by region, so you may find some local specialties that are not on this list. Also, don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Greek wine or ouzo for a complete culinary experience.

Best souvlaki: Kostas. Address: Pl. Agias Irinis 2, Athina 105 60, Greece

Best loukoumades: LUKUMAΔΕΣ. Address: Eolou 21, & Aghias Irinis Str, Athina 105 51, Greece

Getting there

The best way to get to Athens, Greece depends on your starting location and your preferences. Athens is well-connected to the rest of the world by air, and it's a common entry point for international travelers. Here are some general guidelines for getting to Athens:

By Air:

International Flights: If you're traveling from outside Greece, the most common way to reach Athens is by taking an international flight to Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport (ATH). This airport is the largest and busiest in Greece and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Domestic Flights: If you're already in Greece, you can also take a domestic flight to Athens from other Greek cities. Greece has several domestic airports, and Athens is well-connected to them.

By Train:

Greece is connected to neighboring countries by rail, but train travel to Athens from other European cities can be time-consuming and may require multiple transfers. The most common international train route to Athens is through Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. You can check train schedules and routes on the Greek Railways (OSE) website.

By Bus:

Long-distance buses, operated by various companies, connect Athens to several European cities. However, this mode of transportation can be time-consuming and less comfortable compared to flying or taking the train.

By Car:

If you're in a neighboring country or prefer road trips, you can drive to Athens. Greece has an extensive road network, and you can enter the country by land through its borders with Bulgaria, Turkey, and other neighboring countries. Be sure to check the current border regulations and road conditions before embarking on a road trip.

By Sea:

Greece has numerous ports, and you can also reach Athens by ferry or cruise ship from various Mediterranean and Aegean Sea destinations. The Port of Piraeus, located near Athens, is the largest passenger port in Europe and serves as a major gateway to the Greek islands.

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Before traveling to Greece, make sure to check the visa requirements for your nationality. Greece is part of the Schengen Area, and visa rules may vary depending on your citizenship.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements, as governmental restrictions can change. It's advisable to book your transportation and accommodations in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best options for your trip.