24 Alternative Things to Do in Athens Beyond the Acropolis

Athens offers so much more than just its ancient ruins and the Acropolis. Beyond these well-known sites, you’ll discover vibrant neighborhoods, bustling markets, street art, and museums that reveal another side of the city. If you’re looking for alternative things to do in Athens, this guide covers a mix of unusual attractions, local experiences, and lesser-known places worth exploring.

On my short trip to Athens, I found the city offers much more than its ancient history. The Acropolis is impressive, but I especially liked exploring different neighborhoods, checking out the Monastiraki Flea Market, and strolling through the city’s charming streets.

Even well-known places like Plaka have hidden corners to explore. Nearby Anafiotika, with its whitewashed houses and narrow lanes, feels more like a Greek island village than part of a busy city. It’s also one of my favorite spots for photos in Athens.

Whether you’re visiting Athens for the first time or returning to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions, this guide will help you discover Athens off the beaten path, alongside a few famous sights that are still worth your time.

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Alternative things to do in Athens

From colorful neighborhoods and bustling markets to unusual attractions and lesser-known museums, there are plenty of unique things to do in Athens beyond the famous archaeological sites. Many of these places are within walking distance of the city center, making it easy to combine popular sights with more off-the-beaten-path experiences.

See the city with a local

One of the more interesting ways to explore alternative Athens is through This Is My Athens, a program that connects visitors with local volunteers who share their knowledge and personal perspectives on the city.

Instead of sticking to the usual sightseeing route, you can explore neighborhoods, local hangouts, and hidden corners of Athens with someone who actually lives there.

This is a great choice if it’s your first time in Athens and you want to see more than just the main sights, or if you’ve already visited the big attractions and want a more personal look at local life.

If you’re not able to book a tour with them, here are some other options:

Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

One of the more unusual things to do in Athens, beyond its ancient landmarks, is to visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) in Kallithea, a modern cultural complex designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano.

The center houses the Greek National Opera and the National Library of Greece in a striking modern building, surrounded by the large Stavros Niarchos Park. Even if you don’t plan to see a show, it’s worth a visit just to enjoy the architecture and public spaces.

Stroll through the gardens, relax by the reflecting canal, or head up to the Lighthouse, the building’s viewing area, for great views of Athens and the sea. The park also hosts events, outdoor activities, and performances year-round, making it a nice break from the busy city center.

Discover the First Cemetery of Athens

If you want something different from the usual ruins, visit the First Cemetery of Athens. This peaceful cemetery feels like an outdoor sculpture museum, with its marble tombs, neoclassical mausoleums, and tree-lined paths. Established in 1837, soon after Greece became independent.

One of its most famous monuments is The Sleeping Maiden (Koimomeni), a marble sculpture by Greek artist Yannoulis Chalepas depicting a young woman resting peacefully. The cemetery also serves as the final resting place of prominent Greek figures, including actress and politician Melina Mercouri, Nobel Prize-winning poet George Seferis, and archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann.

The cemetery is in the Mets neighborhood, close to the Panathenaic Stadium. It’s a great spot for anyone interested in unique places, architecture, or Greek history. Take your time exploring, but remember it’s still an active cemetery, so be respectful of people visiting graves or attending services.

Explore Athens off the beaten path: neighborhoods and markets

To see a different side of Athens, start by exploring its many neighborhoods. You’ll find streets with political murals, lively markets, and quiet residential areas that give you a new perspective on the city.

Walk through the lively neighborhood of Exarcheia

Exarcheia is famous for its alternative culture, political activism, and street art, making it one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Athens. It’s close to the National Archaeological Museum and has a long history with student movements, anarchist groups, and counterculture.

Walk around Exarcheia to find colorful murals, political graffiti, independent bookstores, record shops, and cozy cafés. Unlike the tidy streets of Plaka, Exarcheia feels more rebellious and authentic, showcasing its unique character.

For anyone interested in Athens off the beaten path, Exarcheia offers a glimpse into the city’s contemporary life beyond ancient ruins and famous landmarks.

Discover the artistic side of Metaxourgeio

Once an industrial neighborhood known for its silk factory, Metaxourgeio has gradually developed into one of Athens’ creative districts, attracting artists, musicians, and independent cultural spaces.

Its streets feature a mix of old neoclassical buildings, abandoned industrial spaces, colorful murals, and contemporary art galleries. Wander around to find street art, independent theaters, quirky cafés, and alternative music venues that reflect the neighborhood’s evolving character.

Wander through Psirri’s colorful streets

Just a short walk from Monastiraki Square, Psirri (also spelled Psyri) is one of Athens’ liveliest neighborhoods, known for its street art, traditional tavernas, quirky shops, and nightlife. Once a working-class district filled with workshops and small businesses, it has evolved into a popular spot for dining and entertainment.

Wander through its narrow streets to find colorful murals, independent boutiques, artisan workshops, and cafés tucked between older buildings. During the day, Psirri is great for browsing shops and admiring street art, while in the evening, its tavernas and bars fill with people enjoying food, drinks, and music.

It’s also a great place to sample traditional Greek food, from souvlaki and gyros to small plates of meze. Pair your meal with a glass of Greek wine or ouzo, an anise-flavored spirit, and enjoy the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.

Take a stroll along Pittaki Street

Tucked away in the lively Psirri neighborhood, Pittaki Street is a small pedestrian street that became famous for its whimsical overhead installation of colorful lamps, chandeliers, and other lighting fixtures. Created as part of an urban regeneration project, the installation transformed a once-overlooked alley into one of Athens’ most photographed spots.

Today, Pittaki Street is known for its creative atmosphere, with cafés, bars, and small businesses occupying the surrounding buildings. Its unusual history and transformation make it a great stop on a walk through Psirri.

Find unique souvenirs at Monastiraki Flea Market

If you enjoy browsing vintage finds and unusual souvenirs, add Monastiraki Flea Market to your Athens itinerary. Located in the city center, near Monastiraki Square, this bustling shopping area is filled with small shops selling everything from vintage clothing and antiques to secondhand books, vinyl records, jewelry, and handmade crafts.

While the shops along Ifestou Street operate all week, Sunday is especially popular for flea market browsing, when antique and secondhand sellers gather in the surrounding streets and Avissinias Square. It’s a great place to hunt for quirky souvenirs or simply soak up the lively atmosphere.

I love visiting flea markets while traveling, and the Monastiraki flea market reminded me a little of Tbilisi’s Dry Bridge Flea Market, with its eclectic mix of old objects, vintage finds, and unexpected items.

Feel like you’re on a Greek island in Anafiotika

Tucked beneath the northern slopes of the Acropolis, Anafiotika is one of Athens’ most picturesque neighborhoods, with whitewashed houses, colorful shutters, and narrow alleyways that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a Greek island.

Workers from the Cycladic island of Anafi built the neighborhood in the 19th century, coming to Athens to work on construction projects. They brought their island’s traditional architectural style, creating a small, village-like neighborhood in the heart of the city center.

As you make your way through its winding passages, admire the bougainvillea-covered houses, quiet corners, and occasional views over Athens. Despite its location next to the busy Plaka neighborhood, Anafiotika feels surprisingly different from the streets around it.

It’s also one of Athens’ most photogenic Instagram spots. If you’d like professional pictures from your trip, you can book a photoshoot in Anafiotika.

Historical things to do in Athens beyond the Acropolis

Athens is full of ancient landmarks that tell the story of its fascinating past. While the Acropolis is the city’s most famous attraction, several other archaeological sites are worth visiting, especially if you’re a history buff or exploring Athens for the first time.

Step back in time at the Ancient Agora

Located northwest of the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora was once the heart of public life in ancient Athens, serving as a marketplace and a gathering place for political discussions, religious ceremonies, and social activities. It played an important role in developing Athenian democracy.

Today, you can walk among the ruins of temples, public buildings, and monuments that offer a glimpse into everyday life in ancient Greece. One highlight is the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, dedicated to the god of craftsmanship and metalworking.

Another landmark worth seeing is the Stoa of Attalos, a reconstructed ancient colonnaded building that houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora. Its collection includes archaeological finds that illustrate the political, commercial, and social life of ancient Athens.

If you enjoy learning about Greek history, consider booking an Ancient Agora ticket with an audio guide to better understand the ruins’ significance as you walk through the site.

Admire the ancient ruins of the Roman Agora

Just a short walk from the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora is another fascinating archaeological site in the heart of Athens. Built during the Roman period, with contributions from Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus, it served as an important commercial center where merchants sold goods and locals gathered.

One of its most recognizable landmarks is the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal marble structure dating to the 1st century BC. Considered one of the earliest known meteorological stations, it features carved representations of the eight wind gods and ancient timekeeping devices, including sundials and a water clock.

Another highlight is the Gate of Athena Archegetis, a monumental entrance supported by four Doric columns, dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Although smaller than the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora is worth including in your Athens sightseeing itinerary, particularly if you’re interested in ancient Greek and Roman history.

Relive Olympic history at the Panathenaic Stadium

One of Athens must-see sites for sports enthusiasts and history lovers, the Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro, is famous for hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. However, its history goes back much further: the original stadium was built in the 4th century BC for the Panathenaic Games, a festival honoring the goddess Athena.

What makes this stadium particularly impressive is that it’s the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Its horseshoe-shaped arena, rows of marble seats, and long running track offer a glimpse into ancient Greek sporting traditions.

Walk along the track, climb the grandstands for views of Athens, and check out the small exhibition featuring Olympic memorabilia. You can even stand on the winners’ podium for a fun photo opportunity.

For something more interactive, join an Olympic Games Workout and try activities inspired by ancient Olympic sports.

Uncover Athens’ ancient past at Kerameikos

For a quieter historical experience away from the city’s busiest attractions, head to Kerameikos, one of ancient Athens’ most important archaeological sites. Located northwest of the Ancient Agora, this area served as the city’s main cemetery for centuries and was also home to pottery workshops, which gave the neighborhood its name.

The site contains remains of ancient city walls, burial monuments, and two major gateways: the Dipylon Gate and the Sacred Gate. These entrances connected Athens to important roads, including the Sacred Way, which pilgrims followed during religious processions to Eleusis.

As you walk through the ruins, look for the elaborate funerary monuments that once marked the graves of wealthy Athenian families. The on-site Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos displays original grave markers, sculptures, pottery, and other artifacts discovered during excavations.

Although less famous than the Acropolis or Ancient Agora, Kerameikos is worth visiting if you want a more off-the-beaten-path Athens.

Interesting museums in Athens

Athens has plenty of museums worth visiting beyond the famous Acropolis Museum. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, traditional Greek culture, or art from around the world, these museums offer a closer look at the city’s history and cultural heritage.

See ancient Greek treasures at the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is a must-add to your Athens itinerary. Home to one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Greek artifacts, it covers thousands of years of history, from prehistoric civilizations to the Roman period.

Among its most famous exhibits are the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold funerary mask discovered at Mycenae, and the impressive Artemision Bronze statue, believed to represent either Zeus or Poseidon.

You’ll also find beautifully preserved marble sculptures, painted pottery, bronze objects, and intricate gold jewelry that reveal how people lived, worshipped, and created art in ancient Greece.

The museum is quite large, so allow at least a couple of hours to see its main highlights. You can also purchase a ticket with an audio guide to learn more about the exhibits.

Admire Islamic art at the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art

For something different from the usual ancient Greek collections, head to the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art, located in the historic Kerameikos neighborhood.

Part of the Benaki Museum network, this lesser-known museum displays Islamic artworks and everyday objects from regions including the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia, spanning several centuries.

Its collection includes decorated ceramics, colorful textiles, intricate metalwork, jewelry, and beautifully illustrated manuscripts. Together, these objects offer a fascinating look at artistic traditions, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange across the Islamic world.

Discover ancient Aegean art at the Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art focuses on the art and culture of the Cycladic civilization, which flourished on the Aegean Sea islands during the third millennium BC.

Its most recognizable exhibits are the Cycladic marble figurines, known for their simple geometric shapes and folded-arm poses. Despite their age, their minimalist appearance feels surprisingly modern.

Alongside these sculptures, you’ll find ancient pottery, tools, jewelry, and other objects that provide insight into everyday life and artistic traditions in the prehistoric Aegean.

The museum also houses collections of ancient Greek and Cypriot art, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the civilizations that shaped the region. Book a ticket to the Museum of Cycladic Art in advance.

Trace Greek history through art at the Benaki Museum

Housed in an elegant neoclassical mansion near Syntagma Square, the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture offers a different perspective on Greece’s history, bringing together objects from ancient times through the modern era.

Unlike museums dedicated to a single historical period, its permanent collection follows the development of Greek art and culture across the centuries.

As you move through the galleries, you’ll encounter ancient sculptures, Byzantine icons, traditional costumes, decorative objects, paintings, and examples of Greek craftsmanship.

I especially recommend this museum if you want to understand how Greek culture evolved beyond the ancient ruins Athens is famous for.

You can purchase a Benaki Museum of Greek Culture admission ticket before your visit.

Non-touristy things to do in Athens for food lovers

One of my favorite ways to get to know a destination is through its food, and Athens offers plenty beyond the typical tourist restaurants. From bustling food markets to traditional Greek dishes and historic bars, these experiences are worth adding to your itinerary if you want to taste your way around the Greek capital.

Experience local life at Athens Central Market

For a glimpse into everyday life in Athens, head to Athens Central Market (Varvakeios Agora), near Monastiraki in the city center.

This busy market is where locals shop for fresh meat, fish, seasonal vegetables, herbs, olives, and other ingredients used in traditional Greek cooking. The atmosphere can be lively and noisy, with vendors calling out their prices and shoppers moving between the stalls.

Along the surrounding streets, you’ll also find shops selling spices, dried fruits, nuts, cheeses, and other local products. It’s a great place to see another side of Athens, even if you don’t plan to buy anything.

If you’re hungry, look for a traditional eatery around the market serving simple Greek dishes.

Try traditional Greek food

No trip to Athens is complete without sampling traditional Greek food. While gyros and souvlaki are popular for a quick meal, you should try several other dishes during your stay.

Moussaka is one of Greece’s best-known dishes, made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and sometimes potatoes, topped with creamy béchamel and baked until golden. It’s a hearty option, especially if you’re looking for a filling lunch or dinner at a traditional taverna.

For something lighter, order a Greek salad, locally known as horiatiki. Unlike many international versions, the traditional recipe usually includes tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, green peppers, olives, and a generous piece of feta cheese, finished with olive oil and oregano. It’s simple, refreshing, and particularly enjoyable during the warmer months.

And don’t leave Athens without trying loukoumades, small fried dough balls traditionally drizzled with honey and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Enjoy these sweet treats fresh, though you’ll also find modern versions topped with chocolate, nuts, and other ingredients.

Sip Greek spirits at Brettos Bar

Located in the Plaka neighborhood, Brettos Bar is one of Athens’ most recognizable drinking spots, known for its colorful wall of illuminated bottles and historic atmosphere.

Established in 1909, Brettos originally operated as a distillery producing traditional Greek spirits and liqueurs. Today, it’s a popular bar where you can sample ouzo, brandy, house-made liqueurs, and Greek wines.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in spirits, the interior is worth seeing, with its wooden shelves, old barrels, and rows of brightly colored bottles creating a distinctive setting.

It’s a great place to stop for an evening drink after exploring Plaka or the nearby Acropolis, especially if you want to try something traditionally Greek beyond the usual wine or beer.

Other Athens experiences worth adding to your trip

Stroll through the historic Plaka neighborhood

At the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Although it’s a popular tourist area, its narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and small squares make it worth including in your itinerary.

As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll come across colorful bougainvillea, traditional tavernas, souvenir shops, and small boutiques selling handmade jewelry and local crafts.

Plaka is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, a beautifully preserved monument dating to the 4th century BC.

If you have time, venture beyond the busiest shopping streets to find quieter corners and charming residential lanes. It’s a lovely area to explore on foot, especially in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Lycabettus

For some of the best views of Athens, head to Mount Lycabettus, one of the city center’s highest points.

You can reach the summit by walking uphill through the surrounding streets and wooded paths or taking the Lycabettus funicular, which runs through a tunnel inside the hill.

At the top, you’ll find the small whitewashed Chapel of St. George and a viewing area overlooking the city. On a clear day, you can spot the Acropolis, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the coastline stretching toward the Saronic Gulf.

Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit, when the city begins to glow in the evening light. However, expect more people around the viewpoint at this hour. For a quieter experience, visit earlier in the day.

Enjoy a night out in Gazi

Once an industrial neighborhood, Gazi has become one of Athens’ well-known nightlife districts, with bars, clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues clustered around the former gasworks.

The neighborhood is home to Technopolis, a former industrial complex transformed into a cultural venue that hosts exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and other events year-round.

In the evening, the streets around Kerameikos metro station become particularly lively as people gather for drinks, dinner, and late-night entertainment.

For nightlife beyond Plaka and Monastiraki’s bars, consider Gazi, especially on weekends.

Spend an afternoon on the Athens Riviera

If you’re visiting Athens during the warmer months, consider escaping the busy city center for an afternoon along the Athens Riviera.

Stretching along the southern coastline toward Cape Sounion, this area offers sandy beaches, seaside promenades, waterfront restaurants, and beach clubs.

Popular coastal neighborhoods like Glyfada and Vouliagmeni are great places to enjoy a seaside meal, relax by the water, or take a break from sightseeing. You’ll find both organized beaches with sunbeds and more casual spots along the coast.

The Athens Riviera is also a lovely place to watch the sunset, especially from a waterfront restaurant or a beach overlooking the Saronic Gulf.

Practical Athens travel tips to know

Before you plan your trip, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your time in Athens, from when to visit and where to stay to packing essentials and getting around the city.

Best time to visit Athens

Athens is a year-round destination, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally the most pleasant seasons for sightseeing. Temperatures are more comfortable for exploring archaeological sites, walking through neighborhoods, and spending time outdoors.

July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 35°C. If you’re visiting in summer, plan outdoor sightseeing for early mornings or late afternoons and save museums or indoor attractions for the hottest part of the day. Summer is also ideal for enjoying the beaches along the Athens Riviera.

Winter (November to March) is another option if you prefer fewer tourists and generally lower accommodation prices. Although the weather can be rainy and chilly, temperatures are usually milder than in many other European capitals.

How many days do you need in Athens?

How long to spend in Athens depends on your interests, budget, and whether you plan to explore beyond the main historical attractions.

Is one day enough for Athens? One day is enough for a quick introduction, but you’ll need to be selective. Focus on the Acropolis area, a couple of nearby neighborhoods, and a traditional Greek meal rather than trying to cover everything in this guide.

Is two days enough for Athens? Two days let you see the major archaeological sites, visit a museum, and explore neighborhoods like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psirri.

Is three days enough for Athens? I’d recommend at least three days, especially if you want to experience alternative Athens beyond the famous landmarks. With three to five days, you can explore lesser-known neighborhoods, visit additional museums, browse local markets, and enjoy the city’s food scene without rushing.

Where to stay in Athens

For your first visit, I recommend staying in or near Athens city center, where many main attractions are within walking distance.

Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma are convenient bases for sightseeing, while Psirri is worth considering if you prefer restaurants, bars, and a livelier atmosphere. If you’d prefer a more residential neighborhood, consider Koukaki.

Here are a few accommodation options for different budgets. You can also browse my separate guide to the best hostels in Athens if you prefer hostel accommodation.

Budget-friendly: Athens Town Hall Art Loft – An apartment-style option worth checking if you want a central base with self-catering facilities.

Midrange: Athens Studios – A convenient choice near the Acropolis and public transport, particularly if you prefer studio-style accommodation.

Midrange: SOUL Athens Hotel – Another centrally located option for travelers who want to explore the main sights on foot.

Boutique-style accommodation: St. Bjur Suites – A stylish option near Monastiraki Square, convenient for restaurants, shopping, and sightseeing.

Suites: Magenta Luxury Suites – Worth considering if you’re looking for contemporary accommodation within reach of central Athens.

Apartment: KYMA Apartments – Athens Acropolis 2 – A good option if you prefer your own kitchen and more space during your stay.

What to pack for Athens

What to pack for Athens largely depends on the season, but comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round. Between the cobblestone streets, uneven archaeological sites, and hilly neighborhoods, you’ll likely spend plenty of time on your feet.

For spring and summer, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, including shorts, skirts, and dresses. I usually bring one of my favorite flowy skirts or long dresses, along with a light cardigan for cooler evenings.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are especially important during warmer months, especially at exposed archaeological sites with little shade.

Tap water in Athens is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle. I often travel with my Stojo collapsible water bottle, which takes up very little space when empty.

For everyday sightseeing, I recommend a small, comfortable backpack. I’ve been using the Driibe CITYC 2-in-1 Backpack, designed for city travel. Read my detailed Driibe backpack review.

Greece uses Type C and F electrical sockets, so check whether you’ll need a travel adapter. A portable power bank is also useful for keeping your phone charged while you navigate the city and photograph your favorite Instagram spots in Athens.

Get travel insurance for Greece

Even for a short city break, I recommend travel insurance for Greece to cover unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, trip disruptions, or lost luggage.

One option to consider is Heymondo, which offers travel insurance plans with different levels of coverage, depending on your destination, trip duration, and needs.

You can get a Heymondo travel insurance quote with 5% off through the link.

Before purchasing, check the policy’s medical coverage, exclusions, cancellation benefits, and any activities you plan to do during your trip.

Getting from Athens Airport to the city center

Athens International Airport is approximately 33 km from central Athens, with several transportation options depending on your budget, arrival time, and where you’re staying.

Book a private transfer from Athens Airport

If you’d prefer to arrange transportation before you arrive, I recommend a private transfer with Welcome Pickups.

You can book your ride in advance, see the quoted price before confirming, and arrange airport pickup. This is particularly convenient if you’re traveling with lots of luggage, arriving late at night, or simply want to reach your accommodation without navigating public transport.

Other ways to get from Athens Airport to the city center

If you prefer public transport or a regular taxi, several straightforward alternatives are available.

Metro: Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) connects Athens Airport with central stops including Syntagma and Monastiraki. Trains generally depart every 30 minutes, and the journey to Syntagma takes approximately 40 minutes. A one-way airport metro ticket costs around 9 EUR, while a return ticket costs 16 EUR.

Airport express bus: The airport has several express bus connections, including the X95 to Syntagma Square, which is particularly useful if you’re staying in central Athens. The journey usually takes around 60 minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets cost 5.50 EUR, and the X95 operates 24 hours a day.

Other airport express routes include the X93 to Kifissos Bus Terminal, X96 to Piraeus Port, and X97 toward Elliniko.

Taxi: Official taxis are available around the clock at the designated rank outside Exit 3 of the Arrivals Level.

A regulated flat fare applies between the airport and central Athens within the designated city-center zone. As of October 2026, the published fare is €50 during the day (5 am to midnight) and €65 at night (midnight to 5 am), including applicable surcharges. Check the current fare before traveling, as prices can change.

For most travelers staying near Syntagma or Monastiraki, the metro is convenient, while the X95 bus is a budget option, especially for late-night arrivals.