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Mount Lycabettus in Athens, Greece
Mount Lycabettus in Athens, Greece - Photo by Courtney Hall

Explore the Ancient City of Athens: A Guide to Exploring the Greek

About Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, is a top travel destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a vacation filled with ancient tales. The city boasts countless archaeological sites, including the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and is also home to a vibrant food and nightlife scene. Discover the beauty of Athens on your next trip!

Looking for a travel destination that mixes history, culture, and urban life? Look no further than Athens, Greece! The city is famous for its historical landmarks, such as the Acropolis, and its vibrant culture, which includes lively street markets and delicious local cuisine.

One of the most popular destinations in Athens is the Acropolis, a collection of ancient ruins that date back over 2,000 years. Visitors can see the famous Parthenon temple and learn about the history of ancient Greece, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.

In addition to historical landmarks, Athens is also known for its bustling street markets, where visitors can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. The Monastiraki Flea Market is one of the most popular markets in Athens, offering a huge variety of goods at affordable prices.

Of course, no visit to Athens would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Some of the city's most famous dishes include moussaka, a layered dish made with eggplant and spiced meat, and souvlaki, a grilled meat skewer served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce. Don't forget to wash it all down with a glass of ouzo, a traditional Greek liquor.

In addition to its historical landmarks, street markets, and cuisine, Athens also offers plenty of opportunities for urban exploration. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you're looking for a quiet evening out or a night of dancing and revelry, Athens has it all.

So why wait? Book your trip to Athens today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer. From history to culture to urban life, Athens truly has something for everyone.

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Popular Stays in Athens, Greece

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Athens, Greece

Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with charmDesign

Brown Acropol, A Member Of Brown Hotels

Brown Acropol is a fully renovated design hotel, inspired by the cosmopolitan vibes of the 60s. The hotel's philosophy is based on a retro aesthetic, seasoned with a contemporary take on upscale leisure and lifestyle coolness. The hotel is situated in Omonia Square, the capital's commercial and business district, with direct access to the central metro station and within walking distance to some of Athens' iconic attractions. Famous Athenian locations and landmarks such as Syntagma, Ermou Street, the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum can be found just a stone's throw away from the hotel premises, while many of the city's hip bars and restaurants are also conveniently close. With Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” and the Port of Piraeus, the main Athenian gateway to the Aegean islands, being only 40 and 30 minutes away respectively, transportation to and from Brown Acropol is delightfully easy. The hotel features 165 high-end design rooms, with king size and twin beds and fully renovated luxurious bathrooms available. Within the air-conditioned rooms you may find a mini bar, a modern Vinyl music player and a complimentary Nespresso coffee machine, along with other luxurious amenities such as a trolley bar. Brown Acropol is the ideal place to organise your business meetings, with conference facilities that can host up to 450 persons. At the main restaurant you may enjoy a rich breakfast buffet, while the Lobby bar offers a variety of spirits in an elegant and cozy area, by the iconic library of the Brown Hotels Collection. During the summer, the open-air rooftop bar-restaurant with breath-taking view to the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill is expected to evolve into your go-to place and one of the hottest meeting spots in the city! The hotel offers free WiFi in all areas, a 24h reception, concierge service, spa service (upon request).
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Business hotels

Nyx Esperia Palace Athens By Leonardo Hotels

The NYX Esperia Palace Hotel Athens by Leonardo Hotels is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Athens just 500m from Ermou Street-Shopping Area, offering an unforgettable experience. The hotel boasts a restaurant, bar, terrace, seasonal rooftop pool, indoor pool, fully equipped spa, conference rooms and co-working spaces. The air-conditioned rooms come equipped with a desk, coffee machine, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with a shower. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, and room service. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and use the fitness center, sauna, and shared lounge. The hotel provides a paid airport shuttle service and is located close to popular tourist spots such as Syntagma Metro Station, Syntagma Square and Acropolis.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charmHotels with spaDesign

Grande Bretagne, A Luxury Collection Hotel

With a stay at Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens, you'll be centrally located in Athens, just a 3-minute walk from Syntagma Square and 13 minutes by foot from Acropolis. This luxury hotel is 1 mi (1. 5 km) from Parthenon and 7 mi (11. 3 km) from Port of Piraeus. . Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a sauna. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). . Make yourself at home in one of the 320 guestrooms featuring minibars and LED televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms feature bathtubs or showers, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks. . For lunch or dinner, stop by GB Roof Garden Restaurant, a restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine. Dining is also available at the coffee shop/cafe, and 24-hour room service is provided. Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 2 bars/lounges. Full breakfasts are available daily from 7:00 AM to 11 AM for a fee. . Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. .
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Business hotelsSustainable Hotel

Airotel Parthenon

This comfortable city hotel enjoys a fabulous location in the heart of Athens, right under the cliffs of the Acropolis, in one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. The Acropolis museum and metro station are just a two-minute walk from the hotel, and visitors will enjoy easy access to all this celebrated city has to offer, from restaurants and shops to fascinating museums and stunning architecture ranging from ancient to modern day. The hotel's air-conditioned rooms are cosy and contemporary with free Wi-Fi and in-room coffee and tea facilities. Guests can start the day with a delicious Greek breakfast buffet, and sample authentic Greek dishes in the restaurant. The hotel also provides a conference centre for business events, banquets and conferences, making this the ideal base from which to explore this ancient city whether travelling for business or leisure.
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Business hotelsHotels with charm

Royal Olympic

This hotel revels in its central location in Athens, just opposite to the Zeus Temple and Hadrian's Arch and within easy walking distance of the Plaka district and the Acropolis, as well as the Royal Palace. The National Museum, Syntagma Square, the National Gardens and the Old Town are also within an easy reach. Athens Airport is some 30 km away. This hotel enjoys an air of elegance and sophistication, beautifully blending contemporary and traditional elements. The guest rooms are superbly designed, featuring refreshing tones for a relaxing ambience. This hotel features a range of exemplary facilities, ensuring the utmost in comfort and convenience. Guests can keep working out at the gym with all modern equipment then pamper themselves at the spa with a relaxing atmosphere.
Conferences
Business hotels

Njv Athens Plaza

This modern luxury hotel has a wonderful location on Syntagma Square. All the important sightseeing attractions as well as the famous shopping and entertainment quarter, Plaka, are within walking distance. Convenient public transport links may be found 10 m from the hotel. This upper-class establishment was built in 1980 and consists of a total of 177 rooms on 9 floors. It is the perfect residence for business and leisure travellers alike, combining modern luxury in a central location. The hotel's facilities include a lounge bar and an air-conditioned restaurant with a non-smoking area. The beautifully furnished, top-class rooms come with every essential comfort.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Divani Caravel

Fusing contemporary luxury with imitable elegance, Divani Caravel is a stunning hotel located in one of the city's most vibrant neighbourhoods. Combining upscale style with elegant city living, our stylish decor, excellent facilities and fantastic service create a first-class experience and the perfect home away from home. Located just minutes away from all major cultural points and attractions it is definitely your perfect base to explore the beautiful city of Athens.
Terrace
Business hotelsHotels with charm

The Athens Gate

Situated just opposite the Temple of the Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian, the elegant and modern hotel The Athens Gate enjoys a privileged position in the historic heart of Athens. The breathtaking view from its rooftop restaurant is considered one of the best rooftop views of the world, overlooking the city and the famous Acropolis, which is only 500 m away from the hotel. The new Acropolis Museum is within a minute's walk; Syntagma Square and the commercial centre are at a distance of 500 m. This hotel is an ideal place to discover the Greek capital in an unparalleled setting.

Things to do in Athens, Greece

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Athens, Greece

Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Digital Voucher7 days

Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days

Visit the the amazing mountain formations in Kalabaka, admire the beauty of Ohrid Lake, be amazed by the Stari Most bridge and walk through the streets of Berat on this tour of seven countries. This small group tour brings you to the most important sites in seven different West Balkan countries, so you can stripe them off your bucket list! You will be visiting the UNESCO world heritage sites, with every place having its own charm and fascinating history.
Temple of Apollo
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Delphi Private Full Day Tour from Athens

Visit the most famous oracle of the antiquity and feel like an ancient pilgrim who waits for an oath from Pythia but be careful because the answer is always in your soul! That was the way ancient Greeks were thinking. Climb up one of the sites that UNESCO protects and feel the awe about the landscape and the humans’ intellect!
BEST PRIVATE TOUR TO DELPHI: Delphi Arachova Hosios Monastary
Digital Voucher600 minutes

BEST PRIVATE TOUR TO DELPHI: Delphi Arachova Hosios Monastary

In the company of your Professional, Experienced & informative Tour Driver, enjoy a Private Full-Day Tour to one of the most Historical sites in Greece, including visits to the UNESCO listed Hosios Loukas Monastery and the Mountain village of Arachova, all accompanied by stunning views from the slopes and olive filled valleys of Mt. Parnassus. Additional Booking options allow you to add a Luxury Class Vehicle (Gold package), and Traditional Lunch in one of the best local Restaurants (Platinum Package). An expert Archaeological guide can also be added on request.
BEST 4-Day CLASSICAL GREECE: Corinth Epidaurus Delphi Meteora
Digital Voucher4 days

BEST 4-Day CLASSICAL GREECE: Corinth Epidaurus Delphi Meteora

Our Private tour Journeys to some of the most impressive remains of Ancient, Classical & Byzantine Greece including 5 world heritage sites, spanning over 5000 years in the development of one of the world's great civilizations. From the first healing centre at Epidaurus to the tombs of Mycenae, to breathtaking Olympia, and the centre of the ancient world at Delphi, as well as the impressive Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, Medieval Nafplio and Meteroa. No less impressive is the natural beauty of the accompanying locations as you sit back & relax along the way in the comfort in one of our new Mercedes E-Class Sedans or Luxury Class Minivans with WiFi and chilled bottled water. In addition to our basic High Standard (Gold Package), choose the hassle-free option to add a 3-course Traditional Greek Lunch in one of the best local restaurants (Platinum Package), or further tailor your tour to include an Expert Archaeological Guide at one or more of the sites (on request)
2-Day Combo Private Tour: Essential Athens & Temple of Poseidon plus Delphi
Digital Voucher2 days

2-Day Combo Private Tour: Essential Athens & Temple of Poseidon plus Delphi

Exclusive to your group alone, this private tour combines 3 of the most popular tours; a tour of all main Athens highlights & old town; an after lunch coastal road trip to sounion & the landmark clifftop Temple of Poseidon; and on Day 2, an unforgettable visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site at Delphi and its museum. All are brought to life along the way by your knowledgeable & considerate English-speaking guide. Sit back in full leather comfort in one of our new Black Mercedes E-Class, AudiA6 or Mercedes Minibus models with WiFi. A great option for families, small groups, and experienced travelers with flexibility to go at your own pace. To make things hassle free you can also choose the lunch option to include a delicious 3-Course traditional meal
Delphi Tholos of Athena Pronaia
Digital Voucher540 minutes

Delphi and Hosios Loukas Monastery Full Day Private Tour

This tour covers two of the most famous sights in Greece. The well known Delphi Sanctuary with the famous Oracle and the unique Byzantine Monastery of Hosios Loukas. This tour has a personalize character. The car will be only for you. The driver will try to face all your needs during the tour. You may easily customize the suggested itinerary in accordance to your wish. JG Athens Tours gives specific attention to the quality than to the quantity. Our clients' safety is of our outmost priorities. Due to recent pandemia of Covid 19, increased precautionary measures of personal hygiene have been taken.
Tholos of Delphi
Digital Voucher540 minutes

Amazing Delphi Full Day Private Tour - Visit the Navel of Earth

  In our tours you will see much more than any other tour, places that most conventional tourists never visit. Only a few drivers and locals like us can get you there. During the tour, you will learn about the sites, history, mythology and our culture. Tours are private at your own pace, where our customer is "always the Boss". Our Goal is to make you feel as close to a "Greek" as possible during your limited stay and love Athens and Greece. Delphi was inhabited since the Mycenaean times (14th – 11th century B.C.) by small settlements who were dedicated to the Mother Earth. The worship of Apollo as the god of light, harmony, and order was established between the 11th and 9th century B.C. Slowly over the next five centuries, the sanctuary grew in size and importance. During the 8th century B.C. Delphi became internationally known for the Oracular powers of Pythia, the priestess who sat on a tripod, inhaled ethylene gasses, and muttered incomprehensible words that foretold the future.
Delphi
Digital Voucher2 days

Delphi Meteora and Thermopylae 2-Day Private Tour

Our Private Tour combines two of the most historical sites in Greece along with their accompanying landscape vistas; from the Mountain slopes & Olive-Filled Valley’s of Magical Delphi, to the Majestic rock-pillar moonscapes of Meteora. Finally, our picturesque return route allows a visit to the atmospheric site of the Battle of Thermopylae with its visitors center, made famous in the film The-300-Spartans. Designed with over fifteen years of experience in Greece, our tour provides a well-paced, thoughtful, and comprehensively planned experience with attention to every detail, and our permanent staff of highly experienced and knowledgeable English-speaking Professional drivers will be at your side throughout. In addition to a basic High Standard, flexible booking options allow you to include additional elements such as Lunch & Professional Archaeological Guides, whilst all aspects may be further tailored on request by our personalized service.

Why People Love Athens, Greece

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Athens, Greece

7
75nataljak
5
Dec 2023
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
From start to finish every detail was on top. Sirma made all process of booking so easy and hassle free for us. We will always remember this trip.
8
853ermala
5
Dec 2023
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
We booked this trip last minute. We were in touch with Sirma from Choose Balkans who helped us planing everything from pre and poat tour accommodation to every other detail. We enjoyed pur holidays
3
315leonorab
5
Dec 2023
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Athens to Tirana; Greece, Albania & N. Macedonia in 7 days
Thank you for this amazing tour of the Balkans. Everything was perfect and we can not recommend choose Balkans enough, especially Sirma for all support.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Athens

What are some must-see attractions in Athens?

The Acropolis is a must-see attraction in Athens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the iconic Parthenon temple. Other popular attractions include the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the National Archaeological Museum.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Athens?

One of the best outdoor activities in Athens is hiking up Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of the city. Other popular outdoor activities include visiting the Athens Riviera beaches and exploring the National Garden.

What is the best time of year to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. July and August are peak tourist season and can be very hot and crowded.

What are some good neighborhoods to stay in Athens?

The Plaka neighborhood is a popular area to stay due to its proximity to the Acropolis and many restaurants and shops. For a more upscale stay, the Kolonaki neighborhood has many luxury hotels and boutiques. The Psirri neighborhood is a good option for budget travelers.

What is the food like in Athens?

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. Some must-try dishes in Athens include souvlaki, moussaka, and spanakopita. Be sure to also try some of the local wines and spirits like ouzo and tsipouro.

What are some family-friendly activities in Athens?

There are many family-friendly activities in Athens, including visiting the National Archaeological Museum, exploring the Athens Zoo, and taking a day trip to the nearby island of Aegina. The Athens Happy Train is also a fun way to see the city with kids.

What is the nightlife like in Athens?

Athens has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and music venues. The Gazi neighborhood is a popular area for nightlife, with many clubs and bars. For a more upscale experience, check out the rooftop bars in the Kolonaki neighborhood.

What is the best way to get around Athens?

The best way to get around Athens is by using the city's metro system. It is fast, efficient, and inexpensive. Taxis are also widely available, but can be more expensive. Walking is also a good option for exploring the city center.

What are some day trips from Athens?

There are many great day trips from Athens, including visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, exploring the ancient site of Delphi, and taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Hydra. The nearby city of Corinth is also worth a visit.

What is the best way to see the Acropolis?

The best way to see the Acropolis is by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps to climb. Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history of the site.