One lifetime is not enough to truly explore the capital. However, 5 to 7 days is sufficient for seeing the top sights. Dedicate a few days to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and some of the city’s many museums. Be sure to make time for relaxing on the beach.
From antiquity to modernity in the Greek capital
The curious traveller’s guide to Athens, Greece
Exploring Athens, the heart of ancient and modern Greece
This city-state was preeminent and powerful during the Classic Age. With over 3,400 years of recorded history, it stands tall among the world’s most storied – and visited – cities. Meticulously preserved artefacts, picture-postcard neighbourhoods, beguiling tavernas, sandy beaches, breathtaking views from its seven hills... Athens is a paradise for lovers of culture, nature and cuisine. Whether you spend a day or a week here, the Greek capital takes you back in time with modern flair.
What to see and do in Athens
No visit would be complete without wandering among the ruins, located in practically every corner of the city centre. Sample local cuisine throughout the day, then explore Athens’ vibrant nightlife.
Meaningful Moments in Athens
Immerse yourself in this vibrant, pedestrian-friendly city. The Acropolis and Parthenon, Monastiraki flea market, Lycabettus Hill, historic Plaka district, tavernas serving classic Greek cuisine... Athina offers so many ways to make and collect memories.
Create your own tour
Plan your visit to Athens
Escape the ordinary by curating your visit to Athens. From your boutique hotel in Syntagma Square, the Greek capital’s top attractions – monuments, museums, public gardens, marina, sandy beaches, Parliament’s changing of the guards – are within easy reach.
24 hours in Athens
Walk or take the red (M2) metro line to the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon as well as the Theatre of Dionysus, Caryatids of the Erechtheion and other monuments. Afterwards, explore the picturesque lanes, shops, authentic tavernas and rooftop coffee shops of Plaka, Athen’s oldest neighbourhood.
If you have more time in Athens...
For sweeping views of the city and the sea beyond, head to Lycabettus, the tallest of Athens’ seven hills. The ascent by cable car, which passes through a tunnel, lasts just five minutes. On the way down, opt for the picturesque footpath that takes you through desert scrub and then fragrant pines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Athens is generally very safe, including for women travelling alone. Of course, take the same precautions that locals take by paying attention to your surroundings, keeping valuables out of reach of pickpockets and avoiding less populated areas at night.
Athens Airport is about 30 km (19 miles) away. If staying around Syntagma Square, the fastest (~30 minutes) and most comfortable way to reach your hotel is by Uber or taxi. Other options include the X95 bus and the M3 (blue) metro line (both ~40 minutes).
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