Visitors planning a short vacation to Greece face a challenge: What can you realistically and affordably cover in a week to ten days? There’s Athens, the capital city and home to the Acropolis. Then, there are the islands, each with uniqueness and attractions. After much research, my wife and I landed on Athens and Santorini. The logic was simple. A nine-hour direct flight from Toronto to Athens, Greece, saved transit time. Also, the vibe of cities in faraway countries fascinates us.

Santorini was easy! Who doesn’t want to see the white-washed buildings with blue domes?

The top three island destinations in contention were: Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Athens, a city steeped in history and brimming with modern charm, offers a captivating experience for any traveler. This guide highlights the best of Athens, perfect for first-time visitors eager to explore the top attractions and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Since pictures are worth a thousand words, check out the Web Story within this post.

So, here are the top things to see and do in Athens.

Sights

Acropolis

No trip to Athens is complete without visiting the iconic Acropolis, one of the best places to visit in Athens and a must-see for any first-time visitor. It is one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. The group of old structures on top of the Acropolis and the famed Parthenon stands sentinel over Athens, visible everywhere within the city.

Propylaea

The Propylaea is a monumental gateway that serves as the entrance to the Acropolis. During the tail-end of the tourist season, it is a great place to take photos and admire the ancient architecture.

Parthenon

The impressive Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and is one of the world’s most famous and recognized ancient buildings. It is located on the Acropolis.

Erechtheion

Located on the Acropolis, the Erechtheion, is a temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. It is known for its unique architecture and beautiful carvings, including four graceful female statues acting as temple pillars.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The stone Roman theatre structure on the southwest slope of the Acropolis was the third to be built in the city. It is considered distinctively Roman in contrast to the nearby Theatre of Dionysos.

Acropolis Museum

When it comes to Athens attractions, the Acropolis Museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. It is a modern museum that houses relics from the Acropolis and surrounding areas. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Greek history.

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is a bustling spot in the heart of Athens and is within walking distance of major attractions like the Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki, and the National Garden. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the city.

The Parliament Building

The Hellenic Parliament Building is a neoclassical structure that was previously the Old Royal Palace overlooking Syntagma Square. The hourly changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Parliament Building is a big tourist attraction.

Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square is a vibrant area known for its flea market, tavernas, and street performers. It is a great place to experience the local culture and food.

Olympic Stadium

The Olympic Stadium in Athens holds immense historical significance as the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. With its elegant white marble structure and enduring legacy, it stands as a symbol of athletic excellence and the spirit of the Olympic movement. During the morning jogging slot (7:30-9:00), visitors are allowed to do a lap around its tracks!

National Archaeological Museum

This museum is one of Athens’ top attractions and houses the world’s finest collection of Greek antiquities.

Experiences

The Port of Piraeus

The main port, Piraeus, acts as the city’s gateway to the various islands in Greece, with daily ferry crossings to the Saronic islands, the Cyclades, Crete, and other islands. It is the largest ferry port in Greece and one of the largest in the world.

Food

Athens is known for its delicious food, including traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, dolmades, kebabs, and tzatziki. There are many restaurants and tavernas throughout the city where you can try these dishes. Numerous hotels offer rooftop restaurants and bars, which offer stunning views of the Acropolis.

Embark on a journey through Athens and uncover its top attractions and hidden gems. This exploration is perfect for first-time visitors planning their trip