Brimming with centuries worth of history, invention, and ruins, the list of the best things to do in Athens is a long one! Whether you’re looking for ancient history and mythology or if you’re into modern art and creative spaces with lots of entertainment options.
Start your adventures climbing to the tops of the epic Acropolis, and if you’re a mythology lover, admire the temples dedicated to several Greek gods from Zeus, Nike, Dionysus, and Athena!
Stop by the world-renown Acropolis Museum and surround yourself with archeological finds shedding light into the city’s Golden Age. Visit Hadrian’s Library, and visualize the image of philosophers speaking, and enlightening their students!
Museum hop through Athens’s best art museums and centers, from the modern pieces inside the Frissiras Museum to the funky National Museum of Contemporary Art!
Fall in love with the city views from Mount Lycabettus, witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at the Old Parliament building, and do some shopping in vibrant Monastiraki!
So If all that is your vibe, then get ready to dive into our list of the best tourist attractions in Athens to see!
1 – Acropolis of Athens
Make your way to the impressive Acropolis of Athens, the high hill centrally located in Athens that was built for religious and military reasons.
On top of the Acropolis, which means “high city” is the beautiful Parthenon, and a few other historical temples and buildings including the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaea. Catch a glimpse of ancient Greece through the historic temples on top of the Acropolis, as you take in the recent renovations of the temples.
A monument so grand, with equally stunning views of the city and sea, the lines can get extremely long. To avoid extra time waiting in line, score your Acropolis skip-the-line-tickets!
Read more about Acropolis tickets price.
2 – Parthenon
On the beautiful Acropolis is the stunning Parthenon, the emblematic building atop the Acropolis.
Built to honor the Goddess Athena, after which the city was named, the Parthenon is said to date back to 447 BC! The Parthenon is not only a historical building, but also a symbol of democracy, the Western World, ancient Greece, and an example of classical Greek art.
The Parthenon was also built in celebration of the Hellenic victory over the Persian Empire during the Greco-Persian Wars. Throughout time, the Parthenon experienced multiple attacks and changes, one of those was being transformed into a mosque in 1458 under Muslim rule.
Visiting the Parthenon is an important piece of cultural history to explore at least once in your life!
3 – Erechtheion
While you’re exploring the Acropolis, direct your attention to the Erechtheion, another temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena, and one of the other most photographed temples beside the Parthenon.
Beautifully decorated with statues on its southern side on what is called the Porch of the Maidens, the temple was said to have been also used as a Byzantine church, as a palace during the Frankish period, and more!
The temple is built in an Ionic style and was built sometime between 421-406 BCE during Greece’s Golden Age. When you’re on the Acropolis, it’s on the north side.
Though some parts of the temple are kept inside the Acropolis Museum, the temple is still in beautiful condition, so be sure to bring your camera!
4 – Acropolis Museum
Take a deep journey through Athenian history at the Acropolis Museum, taking a glimpse at some of the collections of items found during excavations and archaeological sites on the Acropolis, and its surroundings.
Admire the details of the West pediment and West frieze of the Parthenon, check out the Gallery of the Acropolis Slopes, which looks into the artifacts discovered around the Acropolis slopes, and learn about the makeup of the rock itself. Walk over some of the glass panels to discover some of the archaeological excavations underneath you!
Lastly, be impressed at the magnificent views of the Acropolis from the museum’s large floor-to-ceiling windows! To get an in-depth look at all there is inside, check out a guided tour of the museum!
Read more: Best Museums in Athens
5 – Panathenaic Stadium
Step foot inside the historic, and all-marble-made Panathenaic Stadium in central Athens! The U-shaped stadium was excavated originally in 1869, and then in 1896, the stadium was used in the first modern Olympics!
It’s believed that the stadium was built to celebrate the city’s Great Panathenais, which was a celebration in honor of the Goddess Athena, every 4 years. Today you can visit the outstanding historical stadium, which has a capacity of 45,000 people!
A guided tour or a city tour of Athens will explain in depth the celebrations that occurred in the stadium, and if you’re in for a workout, you can climb to the top to see incredible views of the city and the Acropolis, while imagining witnessing a game there.
6 – Ancient Agora
A historic meeting place for the city council, the president of the council, and local people, the Ancient Agora was one of the first sites to witness examples of democracy.
Located northwest of the Acropolis, in the historic center of Athens, the Ancient Agora is a protected site that you can still see and admire, while learning about some of the other events that took place within its walls, from philosophy discussions and other important discourse.
Walk into the Stoa of Attalos, a beautiful archaeological site built in 159 BC made out of marble, that was utilized as a shopping center and a space of social interaction within locals. Visit the museum inside to view the sculptures and statues of gods and goddesses.
Hot tip: Explore ancient history on foot with the best walking tours in Athens, where you’ll discover the secrets of the Acropolis, the Agora, and more.
7 – Temple of Hephaestus
When you’re strolling the Ancient Agora, you’ll notice the incredibly well-preserved Doric-style Temple of Hephaestus.
Hephaestus was known as the god of fire, and it’s said that his and Athena’s sculptures were inside the temple. Dating back to the 5th century, the Temple of Hephaestus forms part of the Golden Age of Athens.
Out of all the temples in Athens, the Temple of Hephaestus is also known as the best-preserved temple not just in Athens, but in Greece.
The best way to access entry around the temple is to book a walking tour of the city or opt for a skip-the-line e-ticket with a bonus audio guide if you want to go on your own. Admission tickets start at
8 – Roman Agora
Walk around the ancient Roman Forum of Athens, situated together with the Roman Agora, both known as a social meeting space for religious activity, as well as the center of Greek city life.
It’s believed that the Roman Agora was traditionally known to be a place for political discourse and law-making, however, it eventually was converted into a 2-tiered marketplace for the public to use. Inside the Roman Agora, you’ll also appreciate ruins of the 2 Roman Baths, a smaller theater, and even an underground stoa.
The Roman Forum of Athens was the place where most likely councils got together, and where philosophy would be read by some of the greatest thinkers.
Nearby is the “Tower of the Winds” the Horologion of Andronikos Kyrrhestes, considered to be the world’s first meteorological station!
9 – National Archaeological Museum
Check out the wealth of archaeological information inside the National Archaeological Museum, known as the largest museum of its kind in Greece.
Dig through (pun intended) the museum’s collections and exhibits, covering everything from pieces of the Mycenaen civilization originating in the Bronze Age of ancient Greece, and a few neolithic items, to a browse through the largest sculpture collections in the world, and various pieces of metalwork.
Learn about the beginnings of ancient Greece through the chronologically ordered exhibits, and also take a peek at traditional everyday life, culture, beliefs, and religion with artifacts. With pieces of jewelry on display, glass vases, pottery, and more!
Book your tickets ahead of time, with options for private guided tours or an audio guide.
10 – Hadrian’s Library
Constructed in 132 AD, Hadrian’s Library is a place of study that was built and named after the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
Though it doesn’t resemble what we consider a library today, libraries in ancient Greece were known to be spaces where intellectuals and philosophers came to study, discourse, and share information.
It was also a space where people could come and listen to some of the greatest thinkers make presentations, and speeches, which converted this space into a philosophical school of sorts.
With time, however, Hadrians Library began to collect documents and important works, most importantly items discussed in the Roman Forum, and places where council people met. Administrative documents would be stored inside the library.
Hadrian’s Library is located near Monastiraki Square.
11 – hop on and hop off bus tours
Want to give yourself a break in between so much sightseeing, but you don’t want to waste precious time? Opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour!
Be taken on a comfortable double-decker bus throughout the city, as you listen to the audio guide (it comes in different languages) all there is to know about these incredible and historic Greek landmarks.
Depending on your tour, pick your route which will cover certain areas of the city, and when you’re done with that route, simply get off at one of the marked bus stops and walk over to the other route’s bust stop to see the next area to explore in Athens.
Some tours include a small little snack and water to enjoy on board!
12 – Agora Museum
Walk through the Agora Museum, located in the Stoa of Attalos, where you can take a walk through the history of the social space that was the Ancient Agora while admiring the statues and busts lining the Stoa.
Learn more about the first few practices of democracy, as well as other purposes that the Agora was used for. With artifacts found from previous excavations nearby, you’ll also get to see items that were most probably used in the marketplace.
Get a sense of what local life was like back during the Neolithic era and Post-Byzantine era, and from the museum, get amazing views of the Acropolis. Guided tour tickets for the Agora Museum start at 10 euros and include skip-the-line privileges and a small group atmosphere.
13 – Areopagus Hill
Visit the famed Areopagus Hill, also known as Mars Hill, located near the Acropolis, most commonly known as the place where the Apostle Paul declared a sermon in 51 AD, and in which the god Dionysus famously converted to Christianity. It’s believed that after his conversion to Christianity, many local Athenians decided to convert as well.
Other mythological stories take place on the famed hill, including a story of it being the place where the god of war, Ares, was put on trial for the murder of one of Poseidon’s sons. As a result, the hill was renamed Areopagus, meaning “Hill of Ares.”
With its fascinating stories, legends, and outstanding city views, Areopagus Hill is a wonderful place to visit especially during sunset with locals.
14 – Mount Lycabettus
Make it to one of the other famed hills in Athens, Mount Lycabettrus, a limestone hill located in the center of the city, with an Orthodox Church at the top, a few vendors, impressive views, and even a few restaurants.
Spot Mount Lycabettus as the hill with a pine tree forest on the bottom, and when planning your visit, opt for the moderate hike to the top, which takes up to 1.5 hours, or less depending on how fast you go, or take the cable car!
No matter the route, the views are incredible and expansive every step of the way. To explore it with a local, check out Mount Lycabettus Tours and choose between a Tuk Tuk ride, a walking tour to the top, or more!
15 – Athens National Garden
Enjoy the fresh beauty of the flowers and gardens at the Athens National Garden – a 24-hectare park in the center of Athens.
Filled with dozens of local plants and flowers, dense greenery everywhere, and local birds and animals, the Athens National Garden is one of the many perfect sites in Athens where you’ll mingle with locals pretty much any day of the week.
With more than 6,000 trees, 30,000+ bushes, and 519 global plant species represented in the park, you’ll find yourself coming often for quick nature breaks within the city.
Walk through the pathways, enjoy the sound of the fountains, peek at the nearby ruins of Greek temples every now and then, then head to the conservatory which holds a children’s library and cafe.
16 – Cycladic Art Museum
Learn about and see special art forms that originated on the Cycladic Islands of Greece at the Cycladic Art Museum in Athens.
Recognized as small, flat, and marble figurines, some of these Cycladic art pieces date back to as far as the late 4th millennium BCE and have been found on the Cycladic Islands, which include Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Syros, and Mykonos.
It’s believed that the Cycladic art pieces were created for religious purposes and were meant to emulate the female body, as some of the figurines appear to be pregnant. As a result, these figurines could have roots in honoring a fertility goddess.
The museum is an easy metro ride away from the Acropolis, and guided tours are available!
17 – Temple of Olympian Zeus
Get close to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a temple dedicated to the Greek god Zeus, in the center of Athens, not too far from the Acropolis.
Built to honor the god of all gods, Zeus, the temple was often used to worship him, and as a result, was the biggest Greek god temple in the city at the time. Though it suffered destruction throughout time, the temple is in great condition, so you’ll be able to see the large scale at which this temple is.
Nearby the Temple of Zeus is another historical sight to see called Hadrian’s Arch. Admire the arched design of the temple and its marble details. Align your sight to see a perfect view of the Acropolis right through the arch!
Hot tip: Walk through history at the best ancient ruins in Athens, where the Temple of Olympian Zeus showcases the grandeur of ancient Greek religion.
18 – Athens Central Market
Make your way through the Athens Central Market, Athens’s largest market, like a local, and take a walk through the historic market, catching sight of local produce, the fragrant smell of typical Greek ingredients, and a crowd of lively produce and meat butchers getting your attention to shop with them.
Mainly a place where locals buy ingredients, the market also has a few food stalls to take advantage of and grab some lunch at. This is the ideal place to try a hearty gyro, authentic souvlaki, creamy feta cheese, or a refreshing Greek salad.
If you’re looking to buy a few healthy snacks, shop locally and buy some fruit there, just make sure to bring cash as cards are not typically accepted.
19 – Pedion tou Areos
Walk off the gyros and delicious baklava on a walk through Athen’s largest park, Pedion tou Areos, located in the neighborhood that goes by the same name, only a 15-minute car drive from the Acropolis.
Enjoy the sight of locals taking a walk, as you make your own rounds through the park’s paths, enjoying a “countryside” feel while still being very close to the city. Around the park, you’ll see the Alsos Theater, as well as the Panellinios Gymnastics Club, which is the oldest sports organization in Greece.
Spot a few other impressive sites, like the park’s monuments commemorating Greek heroes and important figures, such as King Constantine l, the Statue of Athena, and a few churches along the way!
20 – Syntagma Square
Visit the buzzing Syntagma Square, smack dab in the middle of Athens, known as the most popular squares of Athens.
People watch, check out the local shopping nearby at the famous Ermou Street, or simply sit by the fountain in the middle of the square with a snack.
Located right in front of the Old Royal Palace dating back to the 19th century, where the Greek Parliament sits, Syntagma Square was the scene of a local uprising against King Otto of Greece in 1843 for the demand for a Greek constitution.
Near Syntagma Square is also the famous Changing of the Guards, which happens daily at 11:00 AM. Stop by and see the military men dressed in traditional Greek dress, performing their changing of the guard ceremony.
21 – Museum of Illusions
Look twice at everything inside the Museum of Illusions, a fun and interactive museum where not everything is what it seems, and where you never know what you’re going to get!
Try not to get dizzy when stepping foot inside the vortex tunnel, go through the museum’s funky and fun rooms like the upside-down room, stand over the Infinity Well, and check out all the other Optical Illusions, and see if you can figure out how they work!
The Museum of Illusions is one of the perfect tourist attractions in Athens to plan for especially on a rainy day, whether you have kids or not! Located centrally in Athens, getting to the museum shouldn’t be an issue.
Tickets start at just $12 USD!
22 – Plaka
Visit one of the most picturesque districts in Athens located right at the base of the Acropolis called Plaka.
Walk its marble sidewalks and steps, enjoy the lively buzz of locals and tourists all around, and look up every now and then and stare at the grand beauty of the Acropolis looming over the district. Watch a movie at Cine Paris, an open-air rooftop movie theater with incredible views of the Acropolis on the side.
Discover the district’s interesting history on a walking tour of Plaka, while also getting local tips and insight from your guide on the best places to eat, and the best-hidden gems to discover nearby. Admire the local architecture of the historic homes in the area, and view the historic ruins.
23 – Diomidous Botanical Garden
Speaking of hidden gems, the Diomidous Botanical Garden is one of those hidden gems near the city center worth exploring!
With a size of 1,800 square meters and housing over 2,000 plants, both local and global, the Diomidous Botanical Garden is a plant lover’s heaven, with beautifully manicured lawns and gardens. Stop and read some of the flower plaques and read some of their fascinating histories, many of which have roots in Greek ancient mythology!
Walk under the bamboo forests, and then make it to the gardens full of budding blooms from other parts of the world, including Australia and Central America.
Bring a picnic or purchase your lunch from the nearby restaurant or cafe for the ideal day out plan!
24 – Benaki Museum
Get into Greek culture through the art inside the Benaki Museum, from paintings to sculptures, and more.
Go as far back into Greek art from the Prehistoric era, see Byzantine art, Coptic art, and even a few art pieces from other parts of the world like Korea and the Americas. Stop by the Historic Heirlooms exhibit, a collection of pieces that have been donated by Greek families that hold special cultural significance, like ancient coins, medallions, diplomas, and more.
Learn about the Greek flag’s original designs, and learn about the rich Greek history through art, as you make your way through the museum’s exhibits.
Book your tickets ahead of time, and consider booking a tour to understand the extent of Greek culture inside the museum.
25 – Philopappos Hill
Located an 18-minute walk from the Plaka neighborhood is Philopappos Hill, also known as the Hill of the Muses, where the Philopappos Monument is.
The Philopappos Monument is a historical landmark that was built to honor Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, who was a prince from the Kingdom of Commagene, which was an ancient Greco-Iranian kingdom.
Adored by many, when the prince passed in 116 AD, it’s believed that the kingdom mourned so deeply that his sister decided to construct the Philoppapos Monument in his honor.
Take the small trek up to see the details of this monument built the same year the prince passed, and take a closer look at the details of the frieze, which have a few carvings of the prince on them.
26 – Athens Concert Hall
Prepare for an evening of entertainment at the Athens Concert Hall, located in the heart of Athens.
From world-class orchestra shows, symphonies, operas, acoustic performances, and dance performances, enjoy the varied list of entertainment options taking place within the opulent and beautiful concert hall.
The staff at the concert hall recommend viewing a classic opera performance in the winter, and the in the summer or warmer weather, enjoy a concert in their outdoor garden surrounded by fragrant fruit trees. Stop by the Wine Bar in the Christos Lambrakis Hall foyer before or after your show, or have a coffee at M Cafe!
Built with impressive technology, great sound systems, and decorated in classic Greek architecture, a trip to the Athens Concert Hall is a must!
27 – Archaeological Site of Kerameikos
Step foot in one of the few visited archaeological sites in Athens, the archaeological site of Kerameikos.
A site that is known as an ancient cemetery that was used between the 9th century and the Roman times, the site was also known as a place where many pottery workshops took place, thus it’s named “Keramos” which means pottery in Greek became the name of the site.
You can visit the site, and walk amongst the historical space, where you’ll see remnants of temple columns, old tombs, marble statues, and much more items that were discovered during the building of the city’s metro nearby.
Closely located to the Acropolis, be sure to check out the museum with even more artifacts inside, all for 8 euros!
28 – Hellenic Motor Museum
Satisfy your car enthusiasm at the Hellenic Motor Museum, a museum with 3 floors and a varied collection of more than 100 antique, vintage, classic, and modern cars, many of which were built in Greece.
Learn about how cars have revolutionized from the 19th century, all the way to today. Wander through the special exhibits of the museum, featuring 100 years of Bentleys, 70 years of Ferraris, 50 years of porches, and then some!
Take a look at the modernization from the engine to the design of these ever-popular cars on an exciting walk-through of the museum! Book your ticket ahead of time, starting at $10.92 USD.
29 – Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Pay your respects at the Monument to the Uknown Solider, a landmark in Athens across the street from Syntagma Square, near the Old Royal Palace where the guards stand.
The monument was built to honor the unidentified soldiers who died for Greece’s independence, and as you get closer, you’ll be able to see some of the important wars where the Greeks fought and lost many soldiers. The monument has a carving of a tomb, and a soldier lying inside.
Dating back to 1930, and created in an Art Deco style that combines French and Greek architecture, the “tomb” is always guarded by the 2 guards on either side.
The monument is free to visit and is open 24 hours a day.
30 – Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Another beautiful theater located on the slope of the Acropolis is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. A theater with incredible views of the city below, and even views of Mount Lycabettus, this theater dates back to 1616 AD.
Some of the visual features of this theater aside from the views, is the three-story stone front wall. The capacity of the venue is for up to 5,000 people, and historically, the theater would be used for musical concerts mostly.
Built by Herodes Atticus to honor his deceased wife, today, you too can visit the theater to sightsee a bit, or as a guest for a performance whether it’s an opera concert or acoustic performance.
Check out their website for shows happening between May-October, and to purchase tickets.
31 – Food tours
Get a taste of authentic Greek food while traveling through Athens on a filling food tour!
From delicious gyros to hearty dishes like mousaka, pastitsio, souvlaki, creamy feta, and tzatziki sauce, enjoy the refreshing dishes in one go, that way you know what to order the next time you’re dining in a Greek restaurant!
Book a fun food tour with a passionate and local foodie, and learn all there is to know about Greek culture through its food, staple ingredients, and more.
Pass through the city’s most historic markets, inhale the fragrant smells in the air, and try locally baked fresh bread with exquisite Greek olive oil, and other delicious pastries like Greek-style baklava.
Food tours start at $53 USD.
Hot tip: Indulge in the flavors of Greek cuisine with the best food tours in Athens, offering a taste of traditional dishes and local delicacies in the city.
32 – Theatre of Dionysus
Take a look at the Theatre of Dionysus, a historical theater on the slope of the Acropolis where it is believed that the theater style of Greek Tragedy was born.
Surrounded by the greenery around, the theatre was also a place where many sacrifices and religious practices took place, including a celebration to honor the Greek god Dionysus, who was the god of food, wine, and plays.
Built in the 6th century BCE, and known as the world’s oldest theater, it is still used today for various events and even theatrical performances. Even if you don’t attend a show, you can still stop inside and take a peek at a few of the carvings on the stones, showing images of Dionysus in his life.
33 – National Historical Museum
Visit Greece’s oldest museum, the National Historical Museum, founded in 1882 housed inside what used to be the Old Parliament House.
If you don’t have time to visit many of the other museums we’ve mentioned so far on this list, make sure to visit the National Historical Museum, as this museum is a full-encompassing museum that showcases Greek culture with the most details.
From the country’s origins to maritime history, the most influential wars like the Greek War of Independence, to weapons used in war, the conception of philosophers and democracy, medicine, Greek mythology, modern Greece, and much more, you’re in for a historic crash course in all things Greece!
To secure your entry, you can buy your tickets in person.
34 – Monastiraki
Spend some time walking around all the beauty in Monastiraki, a popular area where you’ll find most of the important monuments like Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora, and a few museums, and of course, beautiful views of the Acropolis from almost any point.
Named after the “small monastery” in which the Greek word is Monastiraki, the area is buzzing with life with tons of shopping nearby, including one of Athens more famous streets, Ermous, and equally offering tons of restaurants, cafes, and bars to relax and unwind in.
Join a walking tour, and stop by the famous Monastiraki Flea Market where you’ll find all sorts of artisanally made crafts, from locally produced olive oil to clothing, souvenirs, jewelry, hand-made soaps, and more!
35 – Byzantine and Christian Museum
Focus on Byzantine and Christian artifacts, art, and history at the Byzantine and Christian Museum, located a 5-minute drive from the Plaka neighborhood.
The Byzantine era took place between 330 AD and 1453 AD and was referred to as the Eastern Roman Empire also known as Byzantium. The capital of the empire was in Constantinople, modern-day Istanbul. Its religion was mostly Orthodox Christianity and was taken very seriously by the locals at the time. In their beliefs, the family was first and in fact, was seen as the center of society.
Today, you can visit the museum and see some of these elements in the art inside the museum, as well as what happened during the fall of Constantinople which marked the end of the era.
36 – Temple of Athena Nike
Get a selfie with the Temple of Athena Nike, which was built around 420 BC, and is considered one of the earliest temples with Ionic columns in Athens.
The temple, which is a symbol of victory, is said to have been built in honor of the war between the Greeks and the Persians where the Greeks won. Recently restored, you can take note of some of the carvings and details on the frieze that show the image of war and triumph.
Located on the slope of the Acropolis, you can see this temple on your excursion through the Parthenon. We recommend opting for the skip-the-line ticket for easier, and faster access to the Acropolis and all its other sights.
37 – Frissiras Museum
Feel inspired by the works of European modern art based on the human form inside the Frissiras Museum, with a collection of approximately 3,000 paintings and sculptures!
Found within the picturesque neighborhood of Plaka, the Frissiras Museum is a family-owned museum that aspires to motivate all who visit to enjoy an emotional awakening with some of the pieces inside, created by Greek and other European artists, unique of its kind.
Divided into 2 buildings but on the same street, the buildings themselves are stunning pieces of Neoclassical architecture and the oldest in the city too.
Entry to the museum is 6 euros for adults. The museum is open every day except for Monday and Tuesday, between 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
38 – Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary
Centrally located between Syntagma Square and the Monastiraki neighborhood is the Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary, also known as Mitropoli Athinon where the Archbishop of Athens and Greece is.
It has a few other roles, including being the spiritual center of Greek Orthodox as well as being one of the most important and modern religious sites in all of Greece.
As a result, many important celebrations have been held here by the Greek Royal family, including the wedding of Princess Sophia of Greece to the Spanish heir to the throne in 1962, and most recently the Royal wedding of Prince Philippos to his wife in 2021.
Step inside, and take a look at the 3-aisled basilica, designed in Neoclassical and Greek Byzantine design.
39 – War Museum
See the war weapons used throughout Greek history, in some of its important wars inside the War Museum, in central Athens.
Dig into the exhibits displaying the history of Greece’s most famous wars, from the Persian Wars to the Byzantine Wars, the Trojan Wars, the Peloponnesian War, and the Greek War of Independence, and see artifacts from these wars and more, from military uniforms to weapons.
Look at maps, and images, and even learn about Greece’s first military airplane, which is the one displayed outside the museum. When you enter the museum, be sure to start your journey from the top where the oldest artifacts are kept.
The museum entry tickets start at $7 USD.
40 – Technopolis City of Athens
Make your way to the Gazi neighborhood in Athens to visit the cool Technopolis City of Athens, a cultural and arts center that was built in a previous gas factory.
No matter when you visit the technopolis, there will always be live concerts, art exhibits, craft fairs, and much more! The atmosphere inside the center is very youthful, fun, and exciting!
Don’t forget to check out The Industrial Gas Museum inside the Technopolis, which covers the history of the mid-19th-century gas factory. Want to do some shopping? Check out the shops inside selling hand-made craft objects, perfect for souvenirs for your friends back home! From locally made jewelry, leatherwork, stationary, and more!
Entry to The Technopolis City of Athens is generally free, however, the Industry and Gas Museum may have a cost that includes a tour of the museum!
41 – National Museum of Contemporary Art
Cleanse your palette from the classical Greek ruins at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), showcasing modern art pieces that touch on current topics in today’s world, through thoughtful and provocative art arrangements.
Considered one of Athen’s most recent museums, the museum draws a lot of attention for its interesting art arrangements, many of which inspire thought and meaning, without much context.
The museum is located inside the previous FIX brewery and hosts a total of 172 pieces within its walls, ranging from post-war to modern-day pieces.
Want to try your hand at some modern art? Check out the frequent art workshops held at the museum, as well as modern-art-centered events to visit! From film showings to musical concerts, and more!
42 – Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kotsanas
Get into the mind of the ancient Greek inventors, and their creations that have shaped modern-day Greece, and the world, through replicas, and artifact displays at the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kotsanas.
Another way that ancient Greece helped civilization was with the invention of items within science, art, medicine, architecture, and even sports, therefore this museum will have you looking at a few items you use in your daily life a bit differently!
Check out replicas of pieces like Plato’s hydraulic alarm clock, one of the oldest known analog computers, the Antikytheras Mechanism, and even a few musical instruments. Check out the first few examples of a cinema, and see how some of these inventions inspired the creation of other inventions across the world!
Looking for the best Athens tours?
Make the most of your time in the city, and read our list of the best Athens tours! Pick from our list of the best tours to take you through Athen’s most famous landmarks, while crossing some of Athen’s charming streets.
From Plaka to Syntagma Square and Monastiraki, visit these sights on a cultural and historical tour!
Visiting Athens on budget?
See more without spending much on a free walking tour of Athens! Walk alongside a local guide, and view the many historical landmarks you have to see in Athens, in one easy go!
Save up to 50% on attraction entry with The Athens Pass! Offering a fast pass to the city’s main sights like the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and more, with a bonus audio guide!
Final thoughts
So which of these attractions are you excited for the most?
Whether it’s Athen’s historical and beautiful ruins dotting the city, making it feel like an open-air museum, or it’s getting caught up in the charm of Plaka and Monastiraki – the list of things to do in Athens is endless!
Whatever got your attention best, we hope that you got more ideas to add to your list of the best tourist attractions in Athens!
Happy travels!