Experience the Acropolis at the Right Time

The Acropolis is not simply another attraction; it is the defining experience of Athens. Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures, softer light and fewer visitors. Continue directly to the Acropolis Museum so that the architecture, sculpture and history of the site become part of one complete story.

Do not visit the Acropolis in the middle of a hot summer day.

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Wander Through Plaka and Anafiotika

Rather than following only the busiest shopping streets, explore the quieter lanes of upper Plaka and Anafiotika. Neoclassical houses, Byzantine churches and unexpected views of the Acropolis create one of the city’s most atmospheric walks. Visit early or late in the day, when the neighbourhood feels more peaceful.

Visit the Temple of Poseidon at Sunset

Drive along the coastal road towards Cape Sounion, stopping for lunch or a swim on the way. Arrive before sunset and walk around the Temple of Poseidon as the light changes over the Aegean. It is one of the most dramatic and memorable excursions from Athens.

Escape to the Athens Riviera

Spend a day away from the city exploring the elegant Athens Riviera.Leave the historic centre and discover the seaside side of Athens. Swim at an organised beach in Vouliagmeni, relax at Lake Vouliagmeni, enjoy lunch overlooking the Saronic Gulf and continue to Glyfada for shopping or evening drinks. The Riviera is what turns Athens from a city break into a complete holiday.

Escape to Lake Vouliagmeni

Begin with a swim in the mineral-rich waters of Lake Vouliagmeni, continue to Astir Beach or Kavouri, enjoy a long seafood lunch overlooking the sea and finish with sunset drinks in Vouliagmeni.

It is difficult to believe you are still in Athens.

Experience a Traditional Greek Night with Live Bouzouki

A Greek evening is about much more than dinner.

Reserve a table at a traditional music venue where live bouzouki accompanies authentic Greek cuisine, wine and dancing. For larger productions featuring Greece’s biggest artists, venues such as Iera Odos regularly host headline performers during the season.

Join a Food Tour Like a Local

Athens is one of Europe’s most exciting food cities, and the best way to discover it is with a guided culinary walk through the Central Market, hidden bakeries, family delicatessens and traditional tavernas.

You’ll taste fresh spanakopita, handmade cheeses, Greek olives, loukoumades, local wines and authentic souvlaki while learning the stories behind Athens’ food culture. We recommend Eating Europe Food Tours Athens or Secret Food Tours.

Enjoy Sunset Cocktails Above the Acropolis

If you do only one thing on your first evening in Athens, make it a rooftop experience. Watching the Acropolis light up as the sun sets is unforgettable.

Our favourites are GB Roof Garden for a luxurious dinner, The Dolli Rooftop for elegant cocktails, and A for Athens or 360 Cocktail Bar for a lively atmosphere with spectacular views. GB Roof Garden

Spend an Evening in Psyrri

Psyrri perfectly captures modern Athens.

Its narrow streets are filled with contemporary tavernas, cocktail bars, live music venues and local cafés. It is the ideal neighbourhood to experience the city’s energy after dark without feeling overly touristy.

Discover Contemporary Athens in Kolonaki

Spend an afternoon exploring Kolonaki, Athens’ most elegant neighbourhood. Browse designer boutiques, visit the Museum of Cycladic Art, stop for coffee at a stylish café and finish with dinner at one of the area’s contemporary Greek restaurants.It offers a completely different perspective from the ancient centre.