Athens walking tour & city guide
The Acropolis above, lively Plaka streets below.
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Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, where the marble temples of the Acropolis rise above a busy modern capital. Walk through the old lanes of Plaka, haggle in the Monastiraki flea market and watch the sunset from a hilltop, and you will find a city that mixes 2,500 years of history with a lively street life.
The Acropolis and its neighborhoods
The Acropolis is the symbol of Athens and of ancient Greece. The Parthenon, built in the 5th century BC for the goddess Athena, stands on a rocky hill in the center of the city, along with the Erechtheion and its famous caryatid columns. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds, and visit the modern Acropolis Museum at the foot of the hill to see the original sculptures.
Around the hill, the pedestrian Dionysiou Areopagitou walkway links the main sights. Plaka, the oldest neighborhood, is full of neoclassical houses, small churches and tavernas, while the tiny island-style houses of Anafiotika, built by workers from the Cycladic islands, feel like a Greek village in the middle of the city.
Monastiraki, Psiri and Syntagma
Monastiraki Square is the busiest crossroads of the old town, with views of the Acropolis, the flea market and the Ancient Agora nearby. The streets of Psiri next door are known for street art, small bars and late-night life. Ermou Street, the main shopping street, leads up to Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament.
In front of the Parliament, the evzones, the presidential guards in traditional uniforms, perform a changing of the guard every hour, with a larger ceremony on Sunday mornings. Behind it, the National Garden offers a shady place to rest.
Viewpoints and visiting tips
For the best views over the city, climb Lycabettus Hill at sunset or Filopappou Hill, opposite the Acropolis. The Athenian Riviera, with its beaches and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, is an easy day trip.
Summers in Athens are very hot, so plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and evening. A combined ticket covers the Acropolis and several other ancient sites, and the metro, with its own small archaeological displays, is the easiest way to get around.
Top sights in Athens
- 1
Acropolis and Parthenon
The most famous ancient site in Greece.
- 2
Acropolis Museum
A modern museum with the original sculptures.
- 3
Plaka and Anafiotika
The old town, with island-style lanes.
- 4
Ancient Agora
The heart of ancient Athenian public life.
- 5
Syntagma Square
The Parliament and the changing of the guard.
- 6
Lycabettus Hill
The highest viewpoint over the city.
Food markets & where to eat in Athens
Varvakios Central Market
The city's lively meat, fish and spice market.
Monastiraki souvlaki streets
Grilled meat and gyros around the square.
Psiri
A neighborhood of tavernas, mezedopolia and bars.
Plaka tavernas
Traditional food under the Acropolis.
Koukaki
A local neighborhood of cafés and bakeries near the Acropolis Museum.
Food to try in Athens
Souvlaki and gyros
Grilled meat in pita with tzatziki.
Moussaka
Baked layers of eggplant, minced meat and béchamel.
Koulouri
A sesame bread ring sold on street corners.
Loukoumades
Small fried dough balls with honey.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Athens
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in AthensCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Athens.
- eSIM for GreeceStay online from the moment you land.
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