Athens

Neighborhoods, history and walks.

CityFamilyNightlife

About the destination

Athens is both the cradle of classical Greece and a lively modern capital, where ancient temples sit beside street art, rooftop bars and neighbourhood tavernas. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for walking between sights, while summer is hot and best planned around mornings and evenings. Plan at least three days to see the main monuments and enjoy the food.

What makes this place special

The Acropolis and the Parthenon
The Acropolis Museum
The Ancient Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus
The Roman Agora and Hadrian's Library
Plaka and Anafiotika
The Lycabettus Hill viewpoint
The National Archaeological Museum
Monastiraki and the central market
The Panathenaic Stadium

Across the seasons

Spring

In spring, Athens invites mild walks past historic sights and lively outdoor cafés. Orthodox Easter brings candlelit services and processions through local streets.

Summer

In summer, Athens invites early sightseeing and shaded evening strolls after the heat. The Athens Epidaurus Festival brings theatre, music and dance to summer stages.

Autumn

In autumn, Athens invites gentler sightseeing, local food and comfortable walks through historic streets. October's Ohi Day brings local parades and public commemorations.

Winter

In winter, Athens invites museum visits, warm tavernas and atmospheric walks between winter showers. Christmas carols and New Year celebrations brighten local streets and squares.