Are you ready to immerse yourself in Athens, Greece’s ancient history and modern culture? Look no further than our Ultimate Guide to Exploring Athens in 2023! From visiting iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon to indulging in delicious Greek cuisine and experiencing lively nightlife, we’ve covered the best things to do in Athens in 2023. Get ready for stunning views, unforgettable experiences, and a trip you’ll never forget. Let’s dive into all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Introduction to Athens, Greece
Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back more than 3,000 years. The city was once the center of the ancient Greek civilization and was home to some of the most famous philosophers, writers, and artists of that time.
Today, Athens is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 3 million people. Despite its size, Athens has retained its small-town feel and is a great place to explore on foot.
The city is filled with historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy.
Best Things To Do in Athens
Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history that spans over 3,000 years. The city was once the center of the ancient world and is still full of fascinating things to see and do. Here are some of the top things to do in Athens:
Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon
Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities and brimming with history. A visit to the Acropolis and Parthenon is a must when exploring Athens. The Acropolis is a hilltop fortress built in the 5th century BC and was the home of some of Greece’s most important temples, including the Parthenon.
The Parthenon is arguably the most iconic temple on the Acropolis and is a must-see when visiting Athens.
Explore Ancient Agora
The ancient Agora of Athens was the center of public life in classical Athens. It was the site of political, commercial, and social activity. The ancient Agora is located between Monastiraki and Syntagma Square in the heart of modern Athens.
The best way to explore the ancient Agora is to take a guided tour. Tours typically last about two hours and include visiting the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which houses artifacts from the site.
Tour the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece and houses some of the country’s most impressive archaeological finds. Visiting here is a must for anyone interested in Greek history and culture.
The museum is in central Athens, near the Syntagma Square metro station. It is open every day except Monday, from 8:30 am to 3 pm. Admission is €12 for adults, €6 for students, and free for children under 18.
There are four floors of exhibits to explore at the National Archaeological Museum. The ground floor contains prehistoric artifacts, including tools and pottery from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. The first floor is devoted to Greek art from the Archaic and Classical periods, with sculptures, vases, and jewelry on display.
The second floor features exhibits from the Hellenistic period, including Roman artworks. On the third floor, you can see temporary exhibitions which change regularly. There is also a café on this floor with views over the museum’s courtyard.
Allow at least two hours to explore all the National Archaeological Museum offers. If you want to learn more about the exhibits, free guided tours are available in English at 11 am and 2 pm every day except Monday.
Wander Monastiraki Flea Market
Athens’ Monastiraki Flea Market is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The market is in the city’s heart, near the Acropolis and Plaka districts.
Visitors can find various items for sale, including clothes, souvenirs, jewelry, and antiques. The market is open every day from early morning until late at night.
Try Greek Cuisine at a Local Taverna
If you want to taste traditional Greek cuisine, you should head to a local tavern. Tavernas are typically family-run restaurants that serve up home-cooked Greek dishes.
You’ll find all sorts of delicious Greek staples at a taverna, such as spanakopita (spinach pie), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers). And, of course, no meal is complete without a glass of ouzo or retsina!
Take a Day Trip to Delphi and the Sacred Valley
In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the center of the world. The oracle at the Temple of Apollo was consulted on important matters by kings and merchants. Today, it’s a popular day trip for tourists visiting Athens.
The Sacred Valley is a stunning gorge located near Delphi. The valley has many ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to explore the valley.
Enjoy Panoramic Views from Lycabettus Hill
One of the top things to do in Athens is to enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape from Lycabettus Hill. This hill is located in the center of Athens and provides stunning views of the city below.
You can either hike to the top or take a funicular railway. Once at the top, check out the Chapel of St. George and take some photos of the incredible views.
Take a Walk Through Plaka
Plaka is a neighborhood located at the base of Acropolis hill. It is known for its narrow streets lined with neoclassical houses and many shops and restaurants. Walking through Plaka is like taking a step back in time.
Visit Hadrian’s Library
Roman Emperor Hadrian built Hadrian’s Library in 132 AD, and it served as both a library and cultural center.
