23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis

Athens is vibrant, where ancient history and modern culture blend seamlessly. While the majestic Acropolis steals the spotlight, the city offers plenty of hidden gems and experiences. Whether you are here for history or a relaxing weekend getaway, this post provides alternative things to do in Athens beyond the iconic Acropolis to discover the lesser-known, yet equally captivating, side of this ancient city.

Disclaimer

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂  Learn more

Is it worth seeing Athens?

Athens is a charming destination presenting ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and a rich history. Stepping into this city is like walking through time as you explore archaeological sites.

Many travelers visit Athens because of the iconic Acropolis, but Athens offers more than just its ancient heritage. The bustling streets of the Plaka neighborhood are full of charming alleyways, hidden shops, and restaurants of delicious Greek cuisine.

The cute Anafiotika gives you a glimpse of adorable Greek islands and makes a great Instagram spot for beautiful photos.



Practical Athens travel tips to know

Best time to visit Athens

Athens is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring archaeological sites and strolling through charming neighborhoods. 

The summer months of July and August bring hot weather, vibrant energy, lively festivals, and the opportunity to enjoy the beaches and refreshing waters of the Aegean Sea. 

Winter, from November to February, brings cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. Still, it’s a great time to experience Athens’ indoor attractions, indulge in hearty Greek cuisine, and immerse yourself in a more local, laid-back atmosphere. 

How many days do you need in Athens

How many days to spend in Athens again depends on what you want to do in Athens and your budget for the city. If you plan well, you can see most of the places I outline here in one day; however, the more you have, the better you get the feel of the city and local life. 

Is 2 days enough for Athens? If you’re short on time, two days can give you a glimpse of the city’s major highlights, allowing you to wander through the ancient ruins, visit iconic landmarks, and savor Greek food. 

Is 3 days enough time in Athens? If you genuinely want to immerse yourself in Athens’ rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural gems, spend at least three to five days. This lets you leisurely explore the city, discover hidden gems, and soak up the city’s ambiance. 

What to pack for Athens

Athens is known for its warm Mediterranean climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing like shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. I usually pack one of these two flowy skirts and long dresses. A light jacket or cardigan is advisable as the evenings can be cooler.

Remember a comfortable pair of walking shoes to navigate the city’s cobblestone streets and explore its archaeological wonders. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun in spring and summer. 

Tap water in Athens is safe to drink, so I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. I typically pack my Stojo collapsible water bottle, saving lots of space in my bag.

A small backpack for daily excursions will also come in handy. I recently switched to CITYC 2 in 1 Backpack from Driibe (get 15% off with code: FEDORA15) that’s exclusively made for city exploration (Read my detailed review here).

If you are coming outside of Europe, you’ll need a universal adapter to charge your electronic devices. Another must-have is a portable power charger to keep your phone powered up for those Instagram-worthy moments.

Cash and cards

Have cash on hand for small purchases if you encounter places that don’t accept cards. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments.

If you come from a country outside the Euro country zone, exchange Euros in your home country when bringing cash. All of the currency exchange offices have a very high commission for conversions. 

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to handle currency conversions while traveling in Athens, consider signing up for Wise. With their convenient card, you can easily convert your currency to Euros and spend in the local currency, bypassing the automatic conversions that often come with standard bank cards. 

Thinking of visiting Santorini? Here’s a must-visit place on the island.

How to get from Athens Airport to the city center

Athens International Airport, 33 km southeast of Athens, is conveniently accessible via the Athens ring road (Attiki Odos). The journey from downtown Athens typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Metro

For those preferring public transportation, Metro Line 3 directly connects the Athens airport to the city center, specifically Syntagma Square. The metro operates daily from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm, with trains departing every 30 minutes.

The approximate travel time is 40 minutes, and one-way tickets cost 9 EUR (4.50 EUR for children, teenagers, and seniors), while return tickets are 16 EUR.

Bus

24-hour express buses are available and connect the airport with Piraeus Port and the Intercity Bus Terminal (KTEL Kifissos).

These buses operate daily, including public holidays, with convenient drop-off points at the Departures and Arrivals Levels.

You can purchase tickets at the booth between Exits 4 and 5 outside the Arrivals Hall. One-way bus tickets cost 5.50 EUR (2.70 EUR for children, teenagers, and seniors).

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 1

Four express buses operate from Athens airport to the center: 

  • Χ93 – airport to Kifissos Station, with an estimated journey time of 65 minutes.
  • X95 – takes you to Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens, in approximately 60 minutes.
  • Χ96 – connects the airport with Piraeus port, with a journey taking around 90 minutes.
  • Χ97 – airport to Elliniko (a coastal suburb of Athens) with an estimated travel time of 45 minutes.

Taxi

For a more convenient option, taxis are readily available outside Exit 3 of the Arrivals Level.

A few drawbacks exist to taking a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center instead of booking a transfer. Firstly, you’ll need to locate an available taxi, which can be a hassle. Secondly, you’ll have to handle currency exchange and cash payments upon arriving in a new country.

Despite these minor inconveniences, Athens Airport taxis generally offer reliable and comfortable transport, ensuring you easily reach your destination.

The total cost depends on the arrival time at the destination and includes all applicable surcharges.

Private transfer

I recommend booking a private transfer through Welcome Pickups for a seamless and comfortable journey from Athens Airport to the city center or your destination. 

The service offers the advantage of set pricing, eliminating any worries about fluctuating fares. With their professional approach and a team of well-trained English-speaking guides, you can expect a personalized and informative experience throughout your transfer. 

Where to stay in Athens

Athens offers a wide range of accommodation options and caters to every budget. Like any city, it is best explored on foot; therefore, to ease your wanderings and visit the top attractions in Athens, I recommend staying in the city center or close by to avoid using public transport as much as possible.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Athens for every budget. I also have a separate post on the cool hostels in Athens if that’s up your alley. 

Budget-friendly: Athens Town Hall Art Loft – ideally located a few minutes walk from the center of Athens, the hotel offers city views, a shared lounge, a microwave, a fridge, a stovetop, and a private bathroom in every room. 

MidrangeAthens Studios – an excellent choice for those who want to stay in an apartment in Athens and have splendid views of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace bar. It is also close to the main tourist attractions in Athens and has metro access if needed. 

SOUL Athens Hotel – with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, shared lounge, and a bar, the hotel is another beautiful place to stay in Athens. Most of the top sights are within a few minutes’ reach, including Ancient Agora and the main shopping area. Some rooms have a balcony, and every unit has a coffee machine. 

Luxury: St. Bjur Suites – just 80 meters from Monastiraki Square, this luxury hotel boasts a modern design adorned with various plants, creating a feeling of a small oasis. All rooms have a coffee machine, a private bathroom, and a desk, among other necessities. 

Magenta Luxury Suites  – is another gorgeous place to stay in Athens that is also very close to the top sights. With a minimalistic yet modern and colorful design, the hotel has a terrace, a shared lounge, and luggage storage if you need to leave your bags for several hours. 

Apartment: KYMA Apartments – Athens Acropolis 2 – if you want to stay in Athens and enjoy the benefits of having a whole apartment, KYMA Apartments is a wonderful choice. This one-bedroom lodging has a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and fridge, a washing machine, and other essential items for your comfortable stay. 

→ Can’t find something that suits your taste? Here are more hotels in Athens.

Alternative things to do in Athens

As mentioned above, most Athens tourist attractions are within walking distance. This section provides all the alternative things to do in Athens beyond the Acropolis – from vibrant neighborhoods to hidden gems tucked away in its bustling streets, from markets to museums, and foods to try.

See the city with a local

One of the best things to do in Athens is to join a unique experience with a local guide through the program “This Is My Athens.” 

If you’re seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, connecting with passionate local volunteers is the way to go. These enthusiastic individuals know their city inside out. With their expert knowledge and insider tips, they will introduce you to the hidden gems of Athens that you might have otherwise overlooked.

Wander through the Plaka neighborhood

One of the alternative things to do in Athens is to walk through the charming Plaka District, the oldest neighborhood in Athens

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 2

Wander through its narrow, picturesque streets surrounded by neoclassical buildings adorned with colorful bougainvillea. Discover quaint shops offering local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Explore the historical landmarks of the district, such as the beautiful Lysicrates Monument and the stunning Tower of the Winds.

Find unique souvenirs at Monastiraki Flea Market

Lose yourself in a labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with stalls at Monastiraki Flea Market in the city center. From vintage clothing and antique furniture to unique trinkets and handmade crafts, the market is ideal for those seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs and diverse finds.

We love visiting flea markets on our travels, and this one was quite interesting, with various items on display that reminded me of the Dry Bridge Flea Market in Tbilisi.

Embark on a culinary adventure in Psirri

The neighborhood of Psirri is where to go to try Greek cuisine. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and street food spots for you to devour sizzling souvlaki, mezes, gyros, or freshly caught seafood.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 3

And don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Greek wine or refreshing Ouzo (anise-flavored aperitif).

Don’t miss Pittaki Street 

A whimsical Pittaki Street, tucked away in the Psirri neighborhood, features a canopy of colorful decorations suspended overhead, charming shops, cozy cafes, and unique boutiques that line the street. Find handmade crafts, vintage items, artisanal treats, and local delicacies here.

What about Mykonos? The Girl with a Passport shares her 3-day itinerary of the island!

Discover the Anafiotika neighborhood

Situated at the foot of the magnificent Acropolis, the charming area of Anafiotika is a picture-perfect location reminiscent of the Greek island of Anafi.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 4

As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll feel like you are on the island village far away from the bustling city.

Whitewashed houses with rich blue shutters and blooming bougainvillea create a postcard-perfect scene and take your time admiring the stunning views of the city below. And if you want beautiful pictures, consider booking a professional photoshoot at Anafiotika.

Escape to Mount Lycabettus

Rise above the cityscape of Athens on the majestic Mount Lycabettus, which offers breathtaking views of the city.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 5

As you ascend to its summit, either by a leisurely hike or a scenic funicular ride, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the city with all the iconic landmarks, ancient ruins, and modern architecture.

Take a moment to soak in the views of the Acropolis, standing proudly in the distance, and the azure waters of the Aegean Sea on the horizon. Ideally, plan your visit at sunset, as it casts a beautiful golden glow over the city.

Explore the lively neighborhood of Exarcheia

The bohemian district of Exarcheia is where you’ll find rich street art, quirky cafes, and diverse bookstores. Explore the narrow, mural-covered streets showcasing Athens’s political activism and cultural expression.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 6

Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

Nestled along the coast, this architectural masterpiece features stunning contemporary design and lush green spaces. Explore the state-of-the-art facilities, including the Library of Greece and the magnificent Greek National Opera.

Stroll through the park with gardens and reflecting pools to enjoy a peaceful scene.

Experience the Athens Riviera

One of the best things to do in Athens on a hot day is to enjoy an afternoon at the Aegean Sea. This coastal gem, stretching along the southern suburbs of Athens, has sandy, pristine beaches.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 7

As you stroll along the palm-fringed promenades, you’ll encounter luxurious beachfront resorts, stylish beach clubs, and trendy seaside bars.

The Athens Riviera is another place to watch the stunning sunset. Seat on a waterfront terrace or at the beach and catch the dazzling sky colors as the sun goes down.

Marvel at Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora, a historic marketplace beneath the Acropolis, was the birthplace of democracy.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 8

Wander through the remnants of grand temples and monuments that once buzzed with the energy of energetic commerce and intellectual discourse.

Walking along the worn stone paths, you’ll uncover the imposing Temple of Hephaestus, a majestic tribute to the gods, and the Stoa of Attalos. This reconstructed colonnaded building houses fascinating artifacts and exhibits. For an immersive experience, pre-purchase a ticket with an audio guide.

Imagine the ancient Olympic games at the Panathenaic Stadium

This legendary arena, also known as the Kallimarmaro Stadium, is where the Olympic Games started.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 9

Take a closer look at the stadium’s architectural design, meticulously constructed entirely out of marble, and imagine the exhilaration that filled the air as athletes raced towards the finish line. Or maybe even try out the Olympic Games Workout yourself?

Walk up to the grandstand for the panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape, with the Acropolis standing tall in the distance.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Gazi

Once an industrial hub, Gazi is a trendy neighborhood that has transformed into a hub of entertainment.

As the sun sets, the streets come alive, drawing in crowds of locals and visitors. Explore a maze of hip bars, lively clubs, and stylish lounges, offering a unique experience of nightlife in Athens.

Explore the hip district of Metaxourgeio

The popular neighborhood of Metaxourgeio used to be another industrial hub that has become a place for artists and musicians.

Explore the diverse mix of art galleries, avant-garde theaters, quirky coffee shops, colorful street art, and underground music venues that make this area worth a visit.

Things to do in Athens for museum lovers

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Visiting the museum is one of the great things to do in Athens for history lovers. The museum’s extensive collection spans centuries of Greek history and culture.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 10

Admire the iconic bronze statue of Poseidon or stand in wonder before the fascinating Mask of Agamemnon. Look at the intricate details of ancient sculptures, gorgeous pottery, and elaborate gold jewelry of past civilizations.

Being one of the popular museums in Athens, I recommend buying a ticket in advance.

Learn more about Islamic influence at the Museum of Islamic Art

The museum offers gorgeous exhibits of Islamic art, history, and culture. Intricately designed ceramics, exquisite textiles, ornate calligraphy, and spectacular metalwork are all fascinating.

The lively colors of Persian miniatures and geometric patterns of Andalusian architecture showcase the originality and creativity of Islamic artisans.

Uncover the secrets of the Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens offers the opportunity to learn more about the beautiful art and culture of the Cycladic civilization – an ancient Aegean culture that flourished thousands of years ago.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 11

As you wander through the museum’s thoughtfully curated galleries, you’ll see mesmerizing marble figurines, elegant pottery, and intricate artifacts representing exquisite craftsmanship.

Beyond the Cycladic art, the museum also houses a remarkable collection of ancient Greek and Cypriot art to understand the region’s rich history. I advise to pre-purchase a ticket to skip the line.

Be amazed by masterpieces at Benaki Museum

Benaki Museum, situated in an elegant neoclassical building, provides a vast collection that spans centuries, from ancient sculptures and Byzantine icons to exquisite paintings and contemporary works.

23 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis 12

You witness the evolution of art and civilization through the museum’s thoughtfully curated items. Therefore, if you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about Greek culture, visiting the Benaki Museum is a must for those looking for alternative things to do in Athens beyond the Acropolis.

Things to do in Athens for foodies

Visit the Central Market

The Central Market (Varvakeios) is a dynamic place to savor the freshest produce, aromatic herbs, olives, and local cheeses.

Dive into street food and sample a gyro, a delicious combination of grilled meat, tangy tzatziki, and crispy pita bread. Try souvlaki made with tender octopus or succulent shrimp for an alternative twist.

Recommended food tours in Athens:

Try moussaka

Moussaka, a staple of Greek cuisine, is rich in flavors and textures. This hearty casserole combines layers of eggplant, ground meat (often lamb or beef), and potatoes, all bound together with a tomato sauce. The layers are then topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked to golden perfection.

things to do in Athens

Don’t miss Greek Salad

Regarding culinary delights in Athens, one iconic dish immediately comes to mind – the beloved Greek salad- and there’s nothing quite like savoring this in the very place it originated.

The world-famous Greek Salad is simple yet very flavorful, made from tangy local feta cheese, an ample drizzle of olive oil, and salty bites of kalamata olives.

Eat local dessert – Loukoumades

No culinary journey in Athens is complete without indulging in the city’s beloved desserts. Satisfy your sweet tooth with loukoumades, golden honey-soaked dough balls sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar. 

Grab a drink at Bar Brettos

Enjoy a rich world of Greek wines and spirits at the renowned Brettos, the “colorful bar”.

With a history of over a century, Brettos proudly stands as the oldest distillery in Greece. This exceptional establishment offers an opportunity to sample the iconic local spirit, Ouzo, alongside a wide selection of Greek wines.

With its charming ambiance and knowledgeable staff, Brettos is the perfect evening destination. Additionally, take advantage of their daily wine-tasting sessions from 10 am to 6 pm to understand local wine and sample a few different ones.


More Athens travel guides:


Spread the word!

15 Comments

  1. The Plaka neighborhood looks so fun and colorful! It looks like you had some really good Greek food there, too! I’ll definitely need to make my way to Greece soon, it’s such a unique place.

  2. I’ve been to Athens on my own years ago and I Always wanted to get back there with my husband, who hasn’t seen that part of Greece. You gave us great ideas, I’m saving this!

  3. This is such a colourful post. I still havent been to Athens or Greece at all. The Plaka neighbourhood looks so picturesque. The Loukoumades looks so tasty. So good you included the things you need to know before you visit Athens, so handy 😀

  4. Athens has been on the bucket list for awhile now – in many parts, it looks so colorful and beautiful! But since I’m not as familiar with it as I’d like to be, this list is SUPER helpful!! Saving 🙂

    1. Glad I can help 🙂

  5. I love Greece, and really enjoyed Athens.Missed Pittaki Street, so I guess I must return 😉
    Great post, hope you can get back there soon.

  6. Wow! You have me completely inspired to explore the city in Athens. Those neighbourhood are GORGEOUS! The colours, the intimacy of it all, everything is spectacular. I love that shot with the lone guitar player too.

  7. That sounds like a great afternoon! That flea market looks incredible, I bet you could find some good gems in there. And it looks like I could spend all afternoon taking pictures on Pittaki Street. It’s so colorful!

  8. I love the look of Pittaki Street! So colorful. Of course, I would have to make a visit to Bar Bettos as well. Great tips for a short visit.

  9. My husband’s family lives in New Smyrna….when we visited a couple years ago we visited Brettos 3x!!! Wonderful atmosphere, and an amazing and vast selection of drinks! The mastica is a great host/hostess gift!

  10. I will also add, baklava from Spezi cafe right across from the Acropolis metro station in the Plaka is a MUST. A group of friends and I went back three times in the week we were there.

    1. Great tip Sarah! Thanks for sharing 🙂

  11. Thank you for this great guide. I’m heading to Athens and Santorini at the end of December. Reading this made me so excited for my upcoming trip!

  12. Very interesting post. The stunning photos and engaging writing style makes the blog enjoyable. The blog has excited me to plan a visit to Athens.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.