Athens Landmarks – 45 Most Beautiful Places to See (+ Map)

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Athens, a city named after the goddess of wisdom, isn’t just the capital of Greece; it’s a living open-air museum and the cradle of Western civilisation. It was here that the ideas of democracy, philosophy, theatre and architecture were born, shaping the world as we know it today. Every stone in the shadow of the majestic Acropolis tells a story of famous thinkers, powerful rulers and ordinary people who lived here thousands of years ago.

From magnificent temples and ancient agoras, where Socrates once spoke, to the tangled lanes of the Plaka district and the pulsating modern life, Athens offers a journey through time that is as instructive as it is breathtaking.

Discover with us the most beautiful and most important places Athens conceals. In this article you’ll find not only descriptions of the landmarks, but also practical tips to help you enjoy your visit to Athens to the full!

Athens landmarks – a map of the places to see in Athens

Ancient monuments

1) The Acropolis

The symbol of Athens and a supreme work of classical architecture, rising majestically above the city. The Acropolis was the religious centre of ancient Athens and its construction reached its peak in the 5th century BC under the rule of Pericles. The complex includes several masterful buildings, each with its own unique significance.

  • The Parthenon: The largest and best-known temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron of the city. You can admire its perfect proportions and the remains of its sculptural decoration.
  • The Erechtheion: A unique temple known above all for its southern porch, where the roof is supported by statues of six maidens, the Caryatids, instead of columns.
  • The Propylaea: The monumental entrance gate that welcomed visitors arriving on the sacred ground of the Acropolis.
  • The Temple of Athena Nike: A small, elegant temple dedicated to Athena as the goddess of victory, set on the edge of the rocky cliff.

Practical tip: Buy your ticket online in advance here to avoid the long queues, especially in the summer months. The best time to visit is right after opening in the morning or later in the afternoon, when there are fewer people and the light is more beautiful.

The Acropolis

2) The Theatre of Dionysus

On the southern slope of the Acropolis stands the oldest surviving theatre in the world, considered the birthplace of ancient drama. It was here that famous playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides staged their works. Originally a wooden structure, it was later rebuilt in stone and once held up to 17,000 spectators.

Practical tip: Entry to the Theatre of Dionysus is included in the price of the Acropolis ticket. During your visit, sit down on the stone benches and imagine the atmosphere of ancient performances with a view of the modern city.

The Theatre of Dionysus

3) The Odeon of Herodes Atticus

This magnificent Roman amphitheatre, built in 161 AD, stands on the western slope of the Acropolis and still serves its purpose today. Thanks to its excellent acoustics it hosts concerts, opera and theatre performances as part of the annual Athens Festival. Originally it was roofed and held around 5,000 spectators.

Practical tip: Although you can only see the interior during a performance, a fascinating view of the Odeon opens up from above, from the path leading to the Acropolis. If you have the chance, attending a concert in this historic setting is an unforgettable experience.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus

4) The Ancient Agora of Athens

The extensive open space below the north-western slope of the Acropolis was the heart of ancient Athens for centuries. It served as the political, commercial, social and judicial centre, where philosophers such as Socrates and Plato met and debated. Today it’s an oasis of calm full of the remains of temples, administrative buildings and colonnaded halls (stoa).

Practical tip: Plan at least 2–3 hours for a visit to the Agora. Don’t miss the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, home to a museum with artefacts found in the area, and above all the amazingly well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus.

The Ancient Agora of Athens

5) The Temple of Hephaestus

This Doric temple, rising on a small hill above the Ancient Agora, is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in all of Greece. It was dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of blacksmithing and crafts, and to Athena Ergane, the goddess of crafts and art. Its construction took place at roughly the same time as the building of the Parthenon.

Practical tip: Thanks to its state of preservation it gives a great idea of how ancient temples might have looked in their full glory. It’s an ideal place for photos, especially in the late afternoon, when the setting sun turns the marble golden. You can buy tickets here in combination with entry to the Agora.

The Temple of Hephaestus

6) The Roman Agora & the Tower of the Winds

East of the Ancient Agora stands the younger Roman Agora, built in the 1st century BC under the rule of Emperor Augustus. It served as the main marketplace in Roman times. The most important and best-preserved structure in the complex is the Tower of the Winds – a fascinating octagonal marble tower that worked as a weather station, a sundial and a water clock.

Practical tip: The complex is smaller and you’ll see it more quickly than the Ancient Agora. The Tower of the Winds is a genuine architectural gem with detailed reliefs of the wind gods on each side. It’s close to the Plaka district, so you can easily combine a visit with lunch in a traditional taverna.

The Roman Agora & the Tower of the Winds

7) Hadrian’s Library

This magnificent complex was built by the Roman emperor Hadrian in 132 AD. It served not only as a library where papyrus scrolls were kept, but also as a cultural centre with lecture halls and gardens. The best-preserved part of the original structure is the western façade with its imposing Corinthian columns.

Practical tip: Hadrian’s Library is one of the seven sites included in the combined ticket. It’s in the immediate vicinity of Monastiraki Square, so it’s easy to reach.

Hadrian's Library

8) The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion)

The ruins of one of the largest temples of the ancient world are truly monumental. Its construction took an incredible 650 years and it was only completed under the Roman emperor Hadrian. Of the original 104 enormous Corinthian columns only 15 stand today, but even so their size and majesty take your breath away.

Practical tip: The site is very photogenic, especially with the Acropolis in the background. Visit it in the early evening, when there are fewer tourists and the light is ideal for photos. Hadrian’s Arch is right next to it.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion)

9) The Arch of Hadrian

This monumental marble arch was built in 131 AD to celebrate the arrival of the Roman emperor Hadrian and was meant to symbolically separate the old, Greek city from the new, Roman city the emperor founded. The inscriptions on the arch make this clear – one faces the Acropolis with the text “This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus” and the other faces the Olympieion with the text “This is the city of Hadrian, and not of Theseus”.

Practical tip: The arch stands by a busy road and there’s no entrance fee. It’s a great quick stop on the way from the Temple of Olympian Zeus towards the National Garden or the Plaka district.

The Arch of Hadrian

10) The Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)

The only stadium in the world built entirely of white marble is the place where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. A stadium already stood here in the 4th century BC and served for the Panathenaic Games. Its current form is the result of a reconstruction financed by Georgios Averoff. The stadium is also the finishing straight of the annual Athens marathon.

Practical tip: An audio guide that takes you through the history of the stadium is included in the ticket price. Don’t forget to run around the athletics track, stand on the winners’ podium and walk through the vaulted tunnel the athletes used to enter. From the upper rows there’s a beautiful view of the city.

The Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)

11) Kerameikos

This archaeological site on the north-western edge of the historic centre was the potters’ quarter in antiquity (the word ceramics comes from “keramos”) and at the same time the most important cemetery in Athens. The site includes the remains of the city walls, the famous Dipylon Gate and the Street of Tombs with impressive gravestones and stelae.

Practical tip: Kerameikos is often unfairly overlooked, and so you’ll find a much calmer atmosphere here than at the Acropolis. The site includes a small but very interesting museum, where finds from the graves are displayed, including beautiful ceramics and jewellery.

Kerameikos

Museums and galleries in Athens

12) The Acropolis Museum

This modern architectural masterpiece, opened in 2009, stands on an archaeological site and offers a stunning view directly of the Acropolis. It’s home to thousands of artefacts found on the sacred rock and its slopes. The highlight of the display is the Parthenon Gallery on the top floor, where the surviving marble friezes from the temple are exhibited in exactly the same arrangement and orientation as they were on the original building. Here you’ll also see the originals of five of the six Caryatids from the Erechtheion (there are copies on the Acropolis today).

Practical tip: Plan your visit to the museum after seeing the Acropolis itself. It will help you picture better how the monuments looked in their full glory and fill in the context. The museum has an excellent café with a terrace and a beautiful view, ideal for a rest.

The Acropolis Museum

13) The National Archaeological Museum

One of the most important archaeological museums in the world, holding the richest collection of artefacts from Greek antiquity. Its extensive collections cover the period from the Neolithic to late Roman times. Among its greatest treasures are the golden funerary mask of King Agamemnon from Mycenae, the bronze statue of Poseidon (or Zeus) from Artemision and the fascinating Antikythera mechanism, considered the first analogue computer in the world.

Practical tip: The museum is enormous, so set aside at least half a day for it. If you’re short of time, focus on the Mycenaean collection (room 4), the sculpture collection (rooms 7–34) and the exhibits from the sunken ship off Antikythera (room 38), which are the biggest draws.

The National Archaeological Museum

14) The Museum of Cycladic Art

This elegant private museum is devoted to the art and culture of the ancient civilisations of the Aegean, with a special focus on Cycladic art from the 3rd millennium BC. The famous minimalist marble figurines inspired many 20th-century artists, including Pablo Picasso and Amedeo Modigliani. Besides the permanent display, the museum also hosts interesting temporary exhibitions.

Practical tip: It’s in the elegant Kolonaki district. You can combine your visit with a walk past the luxury boutiques or a sit-down in one of the local stylish cafés. Entry is free on certain days.

The Museum of Cycladic Art

15) The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

It’s housed in a beautiful neoclassical mansion and maps Greek history and art from prehistory to the 20th century. The display is arranged chronologically across several floors and offers a complete picture of the development of Greek culture, including Byzantine icons, traditional costumes, jewellery and artefacts from the period of the struggle for independence.

Practical tip: Every Thursday the museum is open until midnight and entry is free at certain hours. On the roof there’s a restaurant with a beautiful view of the National Garden.

The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture

The lively districts and squares of Athens

16) Plaka

The oldest and most charming district of Athens, spreading across the slopes of the Acropolis. It’s known for its labyrinthine cobbled lanes, neoclassical houses covered in bougainvillea and its many traditional tavernas, cafés and souvenir shops. It’s an ideal place for romantic walks and discovering hidden corners.

Practical tip: Although Plaka is a tourist centre, you can still find authentic experiences here. Avoid the main streets with their restaurant “touts” and get lost in the smaller side lanes, where you’ll find calmer and often better tavernas.

Plaka

17) Anafiotika

A hidden gem on the north-eastern slope of the Acropolis, adjoining Plaka. This tiny district resembles a village on a Cycladic island. It was built in the 19th century by workers from the island of Anafi who came to Athens to build King Otto’s palace. Here you’ll find white cube-shaped houses, narrow stepped lanes and blue shutters.

Practical tip: You reach Anafiotika by narrow steps from Plaka. Please be considerate, it’s a normal residential quarter where people live. It’s a magical place for photography that offers a complete escape from the bustle of the big city.

Anafiotika

18) Monastiraki

A lively, busy square and district that is the pulsating heart of Athens. It’s known above all for its flea market, where you can get everything from antiques and leather goods to clothes and souvenirs. The square is dominated by the old Tzistarakis mosque and there’s a beautiful view of the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora from here.

Practical tip: The flea market is at its liveliest on Sunday morning, when locals and tourists alike come here hunting for second-hand treasures. Be prepared to haggle over the price. Around the square you’ll find plenty of stands with gyros and souvlaki for a quick and cheap bite.

Monastiraki

19) Syntagma Square

The central square of modern Athens and the political heart of Greece. It’s dominated by the imposing building of the Greek parliament, the former royal palace. In front of the parliament is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the presidential guard (Evzones) in their traditional uniforms with pompoms on their shoes.

Practical tip: Don’t miss the ceremonial changing of the guard, which takes place every hour. The biggest and most spectacular ceremony with the whole unit and a band is held on Sunday at 11:00. Come in advance, it tends to be full here.

Syntagma Square

20) The National Garden

An extensive oasis of calm and greenery right next to the parliament building, which formerly served as the royal garden. It’s an ideal place to rest from the bustle of the city and the summer heat. In the garden you’ll find ponds, a small zoo, a botanical museum and plenty of benches in the shade of tall palms and other trees.

Practical tip: Walk through the garden towards the Zappeion, an elegant neoclassical building used for exhibitions and conferences. It’s a great shortcut if you’re heading from Syntagma Square to the Panathenaic Stadium or the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The National Garden

The most beautiful viewpoints in Athens

21) Lycabettus Hill

The highest point in central Athens (277 metres), offering an absolutely unbeatable 360° panoramic view of the whole city, the Acropolis, the port of Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf. At the top there’s the small white chapel of St. George, an open-air theatre and a restaurant.

Practical tip: You can take the funicular to the top (the station is at the end of Ploutarchou street), or take a roughly 30-minute walk through the pine forest. The most beautiful views are at sunset, when the city below you starts to light up.

Lycabettus Hill

22) Filopappos Hill

This wooded hill, also known as the Hill of the Muses, lies south-west of the Acropolis and offers one of the most iconic and most photographed views of the Parthenon. At the top stands the monumental funerary monument of the Roman senator Gaius Julius Antiochus Philopappos.

Practical tip: Besides the main monument you’ll also find the small chapel of St. Demetrius here, the supposed prison of Socrates carved into the rock and the remains of ancient roads. It’s a favourite spot for locals to walk and picnic with fantastic views.

Filopappos Hill

23) The Pnyx

A hill lying opposite the Acropolis with enormous historical significance. It was here that the assembly of Athenian citizens (the ekklesia) met in the 5th century BC to debate laws and elect their leaders. It’s the place where democracy was born and practised. Great figures such as Pericles, Aristides and Demosthenes spoke here.

Practical tip: Even though there are no magnificent buildings here (only the stone platform for speakers), a visit to the Pnyx is a powerful experience. Stand on the spot where the famous orators stood and enjoy the direct view of the Acropolis. Entry is free.

The Pnyx

24) Areopagus Hill

A low rocky hill north-west of the Acropolis, right by the main entrance. In antiquity it was the seat of the Areopagus, the highest court of justice and appeal in Athens. According to the Bible it’s also the place where the apostle Paul preached to the Athenians about the “unknown god”.

Practical tip: The steps carved into the rock can be very slippery, so be careful, especially on the way down. It’s a great and very popular spot for watching the sunset over the Ancient Agora and the modern city. Entry is free.

Areopagus Hill

Byzantine churches and sacred monuments of Athens

25) The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

The main cathedral of the Greek Orthodox Church on Mitropoleos Square is an important religious centre of the city. Its official name is the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary. It was built in the middle of the 19th century and inside it’s richly decorated with frescoes and icons. It’s the setting for important state and religious ceremonies.

Practical tip: Right next to the large cathedral stands the tiny but much older and historically more valuable church of St. Eleftherios, also known as the Little Metropolis. It was built in the 12th century and its outer walls are uniquely decorated with embedded ancient and Byzantine reliefs. Do take a close look at it.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

26) The Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea

One of the oldest churches in Athens, built in the 11th century, curiously stands in the middle of the busy Ermou shopping street. Its construction on the foundations of an ancient temple and its picturesque Byzantine appearance create a fascinating contrast with the modern shops around it.

Practical tip: The church is a great landmark while shopping on Ermou street. Escape the shopping rush for a while, step inside and admire the calm atmosphere and the ancient frescoes. It’s a perfect example of how history and the present blend together in Athens.

The Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea

27) The Monastery of Daphni

This 11th-century Byzantine monastery, on the UNESCO World Heritage list, lies on the edge of Athens, but a visit is absolutely essential for lovers of Byzantine art. It’s famous for its stunning interior mosaic decoration, which is among the finest in all of Greece. The central mosaic of Christ Pantocrator (the Almighty) in the dome is absolutely breathtaking.

Practical tip: You can reach the monastery by city bus from the centre. Check the opening hours in advance, as they may be limited. Since it’s further from the centre, you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy the art in peace.

The Monastery of Daphni

Neoclassical architecture and modern Athens

28) The Athenian Trilogy

This is a magnificent complex of three neoclassical buildings on Panepistimiou street, considered the pinnacle of 19th-century Greek architecture. They are:
• The National Library: Designed in the Doric style.
• The University of Athens: The central building with a painted façade in the Ionic style.
• The Academy of Athens: Considered by many the most beautiful neoclassical building in the world, inspired by the Erechtheion, with statues of Socrates and Plato by the entrance.

Practical tip: These buildings form one of the most impressive architectural ensembles in the city. You’ll see and photograph them best from the pavement opposite. The interiors aren’t normally open to the public, but even the view from outside is stunning.

29) The Hellenic Parliament Building

This massive neoclassical building, which dominates Syntagma Square, was originally built as the royal palace for the first Greek king, Otto. The parliament has been based here since 1934. In front of the building is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the Evzones presidential guard.

Practical tip: Although the interior is only accessible on special occasions, the main attraction is the changing of the guard in front of the building, which is free and takes place every hour on the hour.

The Hellenic Parliament Building

30) Zappeion Hall

An elegant neoclassical building in the National Garden, built for the purposes of the 1896 Olympic Games, where it served as the main fencing hall. Today it’s used for public and private events, exhibitions and conferences. In front of the building there’s a semicircular colonnade.

Practical tip: Walk to the Zappeion through the National Garden. It’s a calm and majestic place, ideal for a rest. In summer outdoor events are often held in the area around it.

Zappeion Hall

31) The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

This ultra-modern complex, designed by the famous architect Renzo Piano, is a new gem of Athens. It’s home to the Greek National Opera and the National Library. It includes a huge park with landscaped gardens, fountains and playgrounds. The building’s green roof offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea.

Practical tip: You can reach the SNFCC on a special free shuttle from Syntagma Square. Entry to the park and the public spaces is free. Take a look at their website, concerts, festivals and other cultural events are regularly held here for free.

More interesting places

32) The Varvakios Agora central market

Immerse yourself in the pulsating and authentic atmosphere of Athens at the central market. This busy market is divided into two main halls – one for meat and one for fish and seafood. In the surrounding streets you’ll find stalls with fruit, vegetables, spices, cheeses and olives. It’s a feast for all the senses.

Practical tip: Plan your visit for the morning, when the market is at its liveliest. In the market complex there are several simple but excellent restaurants where you can taste freshly cooked traditional dishes at very low prices. It’s an experience for the brave.

The Varvakios Agora central market

33) The First Cemetery of Athens

This isn’t an ordinary cemetery, but a genuine outdoor gallery of sculpture. Since its founding in 1837 it has become the final resting place of the most important Greek figures – politicians, artists and scientists. You can walk among beautiful and elaborate gravestones and mausoleums.

Practical tip: The best-known gravestone is the “Sleeping Maiden” by the sculptor Yannoulis Chalepas. The cemetery is a calm and dignified place that offers a different view of Greek history and art.

34) Technopolis (Gazi)

A former gasworks in the working-class district of Gazi has been transformed into a pulsating cultural centre and industrial museum. Its distinctive chimneys and industrial buildings today host concerts, festivals, exhibitions and workshops. The surrounding Gazi district is known for its wild nightlife, full of bars, clubs and restaurants.

Practical tip: Visit Technopolis in the evening. You can look around the complex, attend a cultural event and then continue to one of the venues nearby. The view of the lit-up industrial complex is unique.

35) The War Museum

The museum maps the military history of Greece from antiquity to the present day. The displays include weapons, uniforms, maps and models from various historical periods, including the Greco-Persian wars, the Byzantine era, the struggle for independence and the Second World War. Aircraft and heavy military equipment are displayed outside in front of the museum.

Practical tip: The museum is right next to the Byzantine and Christian Museum and not far from the Evangelismos metro station, so you can easily combine visits to several places.

The War Museum

36) The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments

This charming little museum in the Plaka district presents a collection of about 1,200 Greek folk musical instruments from the 18th century to the present day. At each exhibit you can listen to a recording of its sound and typical melodies, which makes the visit an interactive experience.

Practical tip: Entry to the museum is free. It’s a great place to spend an hour and get to know the rich musical tradition of Greece. The museum also has a beautiful garden, where concerts are held in summer.

37) Strefi Hill

A less known hill, less visited by tourists, in the alternative Exarchia district. It offers a beautiful and calmer view of the city, including a view of Lycabettus Hill. It’s a favourite spot for local residents, students and artists to walk and relax.

Practical tip: The climb is fairly short and steep. Combine a visit to the hill with a walk around the Exarchia district, which is known for its bookshops, political graffiti and lively atmosphere. It’s a look at a different, unconventional face of Athens.

Strefi Hill

38) Aristotle’s Lyceum (Lykeion)

The site of the philosophical school founded by Aristotle. Although the remains (mainly the foundations of buildings) aren’t as visually stunning as the Agora or the Acropolis, the historical significance of this place is enormous. It’s a calm, park-like spot where you can reflect on the foundations of Western philosophy.

Practical tip: Entry is usually included in the combined ticket for the archaeological sites. It’s right behind the Byzantine Museum.

Aristotle's Lyceum (Lykeion)

Experiences and atmosphere that travellers love in Athens

39) Rooftop bars with a view of the Acropolis

One of the most magical experiences in Athens. Around Monastiraki Square and in the Plaka district there are dozens of rooftop bars and cafés that offer an absolutely magical, illuminated view of the Acropolis after sunset. Having a cocktail or dinner with such a backdrop is the highlight of the whole trip for many tourists.

Practical tip: Among the best known are A for Athens, the 360 Cocktail Bar and Couleur Locale. The places with the best view tend to be full in the evening, so it’s a good idea either to book or to come earlier.

Rooftop bars with a view of the Acropolis

40) Ermou Street shopping avenue

This busy pedestrian zone, which connects Syntagma Square with Monastiraki Square, is the main shopping artery of Athens. Here you’ll find all the well-known international brands, as well as Greek shops with clothing, footwear and cosmetics. It’s a lively place full of street performers and constant bustle.

Practical tip: In the middle of Ermou you’ll come across the Kapnikarea Byzantine church mentioned above, which creates a perfect contrast of old and new. It’s an ideal place for buying souvenirs as well as fashion pieces.

Ermou Street shopping avenue

41) The steps in Plaka (Mnisikleous Street Stairs)

In the upper part of Plaka, on Mnisikleous street, are the famous steps literally covered with tables and chairs from the surrounding cafés and tavernas. It’s an incredibly photogenic and lively place, where you can have a coffee or a meal in a unique atmosphere.

Practical tip: The spot is at its most beautiful from late afternoon into the evening, when it fills with people and the lights come on. It’s a great stop on a walk from Plaka towards Anafiotika.

42) Open-air cinemas

If you visit Athens between May and September, a visit to an open-air cinema is an absolutely unforgettable experience. The most famous of them, Cine Thisio, is often called the best cinema in the world, above all thanks to its breathtaking view of the illuminated Parthenon right behind the screen.

Practical tip: Films are usually screened in the original language with Greek subtitles. Buy tickets online in advance, especially for weekend screenings, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Open-air cinemas

43) The Athenian Riviera

Many tourists don’t realise that Athens is also a seaside city. From the centre you can easily get by tram or bus to the so-called Athenian Riviera – a coastal strip with beaches, luxury resorts, marinas and restaurants. Areas such as Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni offer a great chance to escape the city heat.

Practical tip: A special place is Lake Vouliagmeni, a thermal lake with warm mineral water all year round and small fish that give you a natural peeling. It’s a paid but unique relaxation experience.

The Athenian Riviera

The coast and day trips

44) Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Absolutely the most popular half-day trip from Athens. On the southernmost tip of Attica, on a cliff above the sea, stand the majestic remains of the temple of Poseidon, the god of the seas. It’s best to plan the trip for the late afternoon, because the sunset watched from the temple is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Greece.

Practical tip: Buses (KTEL Attikis) run here regularly from Athens, or you can join an organised tour. The journey takes about 90 minutes and leads along the picturesque coast.

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

45) A trip to the Saronic Islands (Hydra, Poros, Aegina)

For tourists who want to experience the atmosphere of the Greek islands but don’t have time for a longer journey, a day trip to one of the nearby Saronic Islands is ideal. Ferries sail regularly from the port of Piraeus.

  • Aegina is the closest and is known for its pistachios and the Temple of Aphaia.
  • Poros is green and picturesque.
  • Hydra is the most beautiful – car-free, with stone houses, donkeys as transport and a beautiful harbour.

Practical tip: Many companies offer organised day cruises that include a visit to all three islands in one day. It’s quick, but it gives you a great overview. If you prefer calm, choose just one island (Hydra, for example) and spend the whole day there.

A trip to the Saronic Islands (Hydra, Poros, Aegina)

Where to stay in Athens?

We’ve prepared a quick overview for you as well as recommendations for accommodation with great value for money.

  • Plaka: For romantics and first-time visitors who want to stay in the historic heart of Athens with the sights within reach. Expect picturesque lanes, but also higher prices and crowds. Try the superbly rated Acropolis View Hotel.
  • Monastiraki & Psiri: For young people and everyone looking for energy, nightlife, great food and bars. Perfect transport connections, but be prepared for noise and bustle until late. An ideal place to stay is Athens21.
  • Koukaki: The ideal compromise. A calm, mainly residential district with a local atmosphere and plenty of cafés, yet only a few steps from the Acropolis and its museum. A great choice for families and couples. We recommend the Acropolis Hill Hotel.
  • Syntagma: The practical and elegant centre of the city around the parliament. A perfect transport hub for connections to the airport and anywhere in the city. Ideal for shopping and for those who prefer comfort to historic atmosphere. An ideal place to stay is InnAthens.
  • Kolonaki: The most luxurious and safest district of Athens. If you’re looking for top-class hotels and the best restaurants and don’t mind paying extra, this is the choice for you. We recommend the unbeatable Hotel Lozenge.
  • Which areas to avoid: In general, for accommodation the area around Omonia square and the adjoining streets isn’t recommended. Even though you’ll find cheap hotels here, for safety reasons it’s better to choose one of the districts listed above.

Read also: Crete landmarks: 37 loveliest places to see in Crete (+ map)

More tips for your travels:

We have prepared for you this comprehensive list of links, discounts, and resources for travel planning in one place. Bookmark this page and whenever you plan a vacation in the future, just open it and save yourself a lot of time.

1) Where to book accommodation?

2) How to find cheap flights?

3) How to rent a car?

  • We recommend a comparison portal RentalCars.com to compare the best offers of all available rental companies.

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