What's Trending in Athens?
Athens blends ancient marvels with lively streets and sun-soaked cafés. See the Acropolis and Parthenon up close, trace democracy at the Ancient Agora, or explore the cutting-edge New Acropolis Museum. Athens makes it easy to secure Acropolis tickets, join guided tours, and get around with Athens City Passes and hop-on-hop-off bus tickets.
From Plaka’s winding lanes to the pulse of Monastiraki, bundle attractions with flexible passes and plan easy day trips to Delphi or Cape Sounion. The city’s mix of ancient and modern lets you fill every hour—start exploring Athens now.
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Athens quick facts: airports, main stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential travel details for Athens, Greece.
Region/Country: Attica, Greece (European Union)
Airport: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Main train station: Athens Railway Station (Larissa Station)
Metro lines: Athens Metro Lines 1 (Green), 2 (Red), 3 (Blue)
Fare card: Ath.ena Card (reloadable, daily and multi-day fares, contactless)
Coordinates: 37.9842° N, 23.7281° E
Popular neighbourhoods: Plaka (historic core), Monastiraki (market and nightlife), Koukaki (museums, cafés), Kolonaki (upscale shops, galleries), Syntagma (transport hub), Psyri (bars, artisan shops), Thiseio (views, open-air cafés), Exarcheia (student, alternative culture)
Other highlights: Philopappos Hill (views), Lycabettus Hill (panoramas), Piraeus Port (Aegean ferries)
Key update: Since the Metro Line 3 expanded, you can now travel directly from Athens Airport (ATH) to Syntagma and Monastiraki, making city arrival seamless—tap your Ath.ena Card for a fast, direct transfer in under 40 minutes.
Top things to do in Athens
Start with the classics, then mix in a stroll through buzzing markets or a day trip for the full Athens experience.
Walk the Acropolis: climb to ancient temples, see the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Theatre of Dionysus with fast-track Acropolis tickets Athens.
Explore the New Acropolis Museum: marvel at original Caryatids, Parthenon marbles, and glass-floor excavations with Acropolis Museum tickets.
Stroll the Ancient Agora: explore birthplace of democracy—Temple of Hephaestus, Bouleuterion, Tholos, and the Stoa of Attalos.
Hop aboard the Athens hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus for 48-hour access to major Athens attractions and neighborhoods.
Discover the Museum of Illusions Athens: an interactive experience popular with families and creatives.
Tour the National Archaeology Museum: see Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures.
Wander Plaka and Anafiotika: meander cobblestone lanes below the Acropolis, lined with neoclassical houses and vibrant cafés.
Shop and eat your way through Monastiraki Flea Market: vintage finds, street food, local crafts near the ancient Library of Hadrian.
Visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds: combine these with a central Athens walking tour.
Catch sunset at Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon: join a guided sunset tour for dramatic views over the Aegean.
Take a day trip to Delphi or Ancient Corinth: absorb Greece’s classical and mythological heritage in a single outing.
Climb Lycabettus Hill: panoramic views—arrive by funicular or hike up for the best cityscape photos.
Tickets and city passes in Athens
Buy Athens passes or attraction tickets in advance to skip queues and stay flexible.
Athens City Pass (Turbopass): Access 20+ sites—Acropolis, museums, hop-on-hop-off Athens bus tickets—plus discounts and a digital city guide.
Athens MegaPass: All-in-one for the Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, National Archaeology Museum, bus tour, eSIM, and top day trips.
Acropolis & Parthenon Entry Ticket: Main landmark, with upgrade to Acropolis Museum or guided options. Book early access for fewer crowds.
Combo Acropolis & Bus Tour: Bundle the Acropolis (and Parthenon) with 2-day bus transit for an efficient Athens intro.
Ancient Agora tickets with audio guide: Great for deeper exploration—covers Temple of Hephaestus and civic sites.
Guided and self-guided walking tours: Multiple themes span central neighborhoods, ancient sites, and Athens art & food culture.
If you plan at least two paid Athens attractions—like the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum—an Athens City Pass or MegaPass is likely to save money, cut time at entries, and provide extras like transport and guides.
Getting around Athens by metro, tram, and bus
The Athens Metro, buses, trams, and airport trains let you connect ancient sites, neighborhoods, and the coast with one fare card.
Metro lines: Lines 1 (Green, Piraeus–Kifisia), 2 (Red, Anthoupoli–Elliniko), 3 (Blue, Airport–Dimotiko Theatro) hit key sites—Syntagma, Monastiraki, Acropolis, Omonia.
Ath.ena Card: Use for Metro, bus, tram, suburban rail; daily/weekly options, tap in/out at gates. Airport supplement for Metro/Express Bus.
Airport to city: From ATH, Metro Line 3 to Syntagma (~40 mins), or X95 express bus to Syntagma (24/7). Taxi flat rate to city center.
Main rail hub: Larissa Station for intercity trains northward.
Trams: Connect center to Athens Riviera (beaches, marinas—runs from Syntagma to Glyfada).
Traffic tips: Historic center is walkable but driving and parking are tricky—use Metro or bus for fastest transfers.
Alternative transport: Licensed taxis at key ranks, and rideshare (Beat) work well; ferries at Piraeus for Aegean islands day trips.
Tip: Late-night Metro closes ~12:30am (Fridays/Saturdays later). Use Express Buses or taxis for early or late airport connections.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
Spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) are ideal—expect highs of 20-29°C, light rain, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Summer (late June through August) sees lively festivals but brings hot, dry weather (up to 35°C+) and dense crowds at marquee sites. Winters (December to March) are mild, slow-paced (10-17°C), and see major museums and sites open year-round, often with lower prices.
How many days do you need in Athens?
Two days fit the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, New Acropolis Museum, and a Monastiraki walk. With three to four days, add the National Archaeology Museum, Plaka, and a hop-on-hop-off bus loop or Cape Sounion sunset tour. Five days lets you explore neighbor districts and take a guided day trip to Delphi or Corinth for myth-filled landscapes and ruins.
Is the Athens City Pass worth it?
The Athens City Pass pays off if you’ll do the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, at least one more major site, and use the hop-on-hop-off bus or public transport. It’s a great value for short stays with packed itineraries. For minimal sightseeing, individual tickets may be better. Always review included attractions before purchase.
What are the must-see attractions in Athens?
The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential. Add the New Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora (Temple of Hephaestus), Roman Agora, and Theatre of Dionysus. Don’t skip Monastiraki Flea Market, Plaka’s historic lanes, and the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. If time allows, the National Archaeology Museum is a treasure trove spanning millennia.
Do I need to book Acropolis tickets in advance?
Yes—Acropolis tickets frequently sell out, especially April to October. Advance purchase with timed entry is best for skipping lines and accessing less crowded time slots, like early morning. Upgrades add guides or museum entry. If sold out, consider combo packages or late-afternoon slots when crowds ease.
How do I get from ATH airport to central Athens?
Take Metro Line 3 from ATH airport directly to Syntagma Square or Monastiraki—about 40 minutes. The X95 express bus runs 24/7 to Syntagma for a budget ride (60 minutes). Licensed taxis have a flat rate (about €40-€55) to the center. Prebooked shuttles and rideshares (Beat) are reliable alternatives.
Where should I stay in Athens?
Plaka is ideal for first-timers, steps from the Acropolis. Monastiraki suits nightlife and quirky markets. Kolonaki offers upscale boutiques and quiet cafés, while Koukaki blends local life with museum access. Syntagma is best for transit links and shopping. Thiseio has great views and green space. Exarcheia feels young and alternative.
What are easy day trips from Athens?
Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon) is a popular sunset destination under 90 minutes from central Athens. The archaeological site of Delphi offers ancient ruins and dramatic mountain settings—a full-day guided tour fits perfectly. Ancient Corinth, with its famous canal and agora, makes another worthwhile trip. Ferries from Piraeus unlock Aegina and Hydra in a day.
Athens quick facts: airports, main stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential travel details for Athens, Greece.
Region/Country: Attica, Greece (European Union)
Airport: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Main train station: Athens Railway Station (Larissa Station)
Metro lines: Athens Metro Lines 1 (Green), 2 (Red), 3 (Blue)
Fare card: Ath.ena Card (reloadable, daily and multi-day fares, contactless)
Coordinates: 37.9842° N, 23.7281° E
Popular neighbourhoods: Plaka (historic core), Monastiraki (market and nightlife), Koukaki (museums, cafés), Kolonaki (upscale shops, galleries), Syntagma (transport hub), Psyri (bars, artisan shops), Thiseio (views, open-air cafés), Exarcheia (student, alternative culture)
Other highlights: Philopappos Hill (views), Lycabettus Hill (panoramas), Piraeus Port (Aegean ferries)
Key update: Since the Metro Line 3 expanded, you can now travel directly from Athens Airport (ATH) to Syntagma and Monastiraki, making city arrival seamless—tap your Ath.ena Card for a fast, direct transfer in under 40 minutes.
Top things to do in Athens
Start with the classics, then mix in a stroll through buzzing markets or a day trip for the full Athens experience.
Walk the Acropolis: climb to ancient temples, see the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Theatre of Dionysus with fast-track Acropolis tickets Athens.
Explore the New Acropolis Museum: marvel at original Caryatids, Parthenon marbles, and glass-floor excavations with Acropolis Museum tickets.
Stroll the Ancient Agora: explore birthplace of democracy—Temple of Hephaestus, Bouleuterion, Tholos, and the Stoa of Attalos.
Hop aboard the Athens hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus for 48-hour access to major Athens attractions and neighborhoods.
Discover the Museum of Illusions Athens: an interactive experience popular with families and creatives.
Tour the National Archaeology Museum: see Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures.
Wander Plaka and Anafiotika: meander cobblestone lanes below the Acropolis, lined with neoclassical houses and vibrant cafés.
Shop and eat your way through Monastiraki Flea Market: vintage finds, street food, local crafts near the ancient Library of Hadrian.
Visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds: combine these with a central Athens walking tour.
Catch sunset at Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon: join a guided sunset tour for dramatic views over the Aegean.
Take a day trip to Delphi or Ancient Corinth: absorb Greece’s classical and mythological heritage in a single outing.
Climb Lycabettus Hill: panoramic views—arrive by funicular or hike up for the best cityscape photos.
Tickets and city passes in Athens
Buy Athens passes or attraction tickets in advance to skip queues and stay flexible.
Athens City Pass (Turbopass): Access 20+ sites—Acropolis, museums, hop-on-hop-off Athens bus tickets—plus discounts and a digital city guide.
Athens MegaPass: All-in-one for the Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, National Archaeology Museum, bus tour, eSIM, and top day trips.
Acropolis & Parthenon Entry Ticket: Main landmark, with upgrade to Acropolis Museum or guided options. Book early access for fewer crowds.
Combo Acropolis & Bus Tour: Bundle the Acropolis (and Parthenon) with 2-day bus transit for an efficient Athens intro.
Ancient Agora tickets with audio guide: Great for deeper exploration—covers Temple of Hephaestus and civic sites.
Guided and self-guided walking tours: Multiple themes span central neighborhoods, ancient sites, and Athens art & food culture.
If you plan at least two paid Athens attractions—like the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum—an Athens City Pass or MegaPass is likely to save money, cut time at entries, and provide extras like transport and guides.
Getting around Athens by metro, tram, and bus
The Athens Metro, buses, trams, and airport trains let you connect ancient sites, neighborhoods, and the coast with one fare card.
Metro lines: Lines 1 (Green, Piraeus–Kifisia), 2 (Red, Anthoupoli–Elliniko), 3 (Blue, Airport–Dimotiko Theatro) hit key sites—Syntagma, Monastiraki, Acropolis, Omonia.
Ath.ena Card: Use for Metro, bus, tram, suburban rail; daily/weekly options, tap in/out at gates. Airport supplement for Metro/Express Bus.
Airport to city: From ATH, Metro Line 3 to Syntagma (~40 mins), or X95 express bus to Syntagma (24/7). Taxi flat rate to city center.
Main rail hub: Larissa Station for intercity trains northward.
Trams: Connect center to Athens Riviera (beaches, marinas—runs from Syntagma to Glyfada).
Traffic tips: Historic center is walkable but driving and parking are tricky—use Metro or bus for fastest transfers.
Alternative transport: Licensed taxis at key ranks, and rideshare (Beat) work well; ferries at Piraeus for Aegean islands day trips.
Tip: Late-night Metro closes ~12:30am (Fridays/Saturdays later). Use Express Buses or taxis for early or late airport connections.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
Spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) are ideal—expect highs of 20-29°C, light rain, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Summer (late June through August) sees lively festivals but brings hot, dry weather (up to 35°C+) and dense crowds at marquee sites. Winters (December to March) are mild, slow-paced (10-17°C), and see major museums and sites open year-round, often with lower prices.
How many days do you need in Athens?
Two days fit the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, New Acropolis Museum, and a Monastiraki walk. With three to four days, add the National Archaeology Museum, Plaka, and a hop-on-hop-off bus loop or Cape Sounion sunset tour. Five days lets you explore neighbor districts and take a guided day trip to Delphi or Corinth for myth-filled landscapes and ruins.
Is the Athens City Pass worth it?
The Athens City Pass pays off if you’ll do the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, at least one more major site, and use the hop-on-hop-off bus or public transport. It’s a great value for short stays with packed itineraries. For minimal sightseeing, individual tickets may be better. Always review included attractions before purchase.
What are the must-see attractions in Athens?
The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential. Add the New Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora (Temple of Hephaestus), Roman Agora, and Theatre of Dionysus. Don’t skip Monastiraki Flea Market, Plaka’s historic lanes, and the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. If time allows, the National Archaeology Museum is a treasure trove spanning millennia.
Do I need to book Acropolis tickets in advance?
Yes—Acropolis tickets frequently sell out, especially April to October. Advance purchase with timed entry is best for skipping lines and accessing less crowded time slots, like early morning. Upgrades add guides or museum entry. If sold out, consider combo packages or late-afternoon slots when crowds ease.
How do I get from ATH airport to central Athens?
Take Metro Line 3 from ATH airport directly to Syntagma Square or Monastiraki—about 40 minutes. The X95 express bus runs 24/7 to Syntagma for a budget ride (60 minutes). Licensed taxis have a flat rate (about €40-€55) to the center. Prebooked shuttles and rideshares (Beat) are reliable alternatives.
Where should I stay in Athens?
Plaka is ideal for first-timers, steps from the Acropolis. Monastiraki suits nightlife and quirky markets. Kolonaki offers upscale boutiques and quiet cafés, while Koukaki blends local life with museum access. Syntagma is best for transit links and shopping. Thiseio has great views and green space. Exarcheia feels young and alternative.
What are easy day trips from Athens?
Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon) is a popular sunset destination under 90 minutes from central Athens. The archaeological site of Delphi offers ancient ruins and dramatic mountain settings—a full-day guided tour fits perfectly. Ancient Corinth, with its famous canal and agora, makes another worthwhile trip. Ferries from Piraeus unlock Aegina and Hydra in a day.
Athens quick facts: airports, main stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential travel details for Athens, Greece.
Region/Country: Attica, Greece (European Union)
Airport: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Main train station: Athens Railway Station (Larissa Station)
Metro lines: Athens Metro Lines 1 (Green), 2 (Red), 3 (Blue)
Fare card: Ath.ena Card (reloadable, daily and multi-day fares, contactless)
Coordinates: 37.9842° N, 23.7281° E
Popular neighbourhoods: Plaka (historic core), Monastiraki (market and nightlife), Koukaki (museums, cafés), Kolonaki (upscale shops, galleries), Syntagma (transport hub), Psyri (bars, artisan shops), Thiseio (views, open-air cafés), Exarcheia (student, alternative culture)
Other highlights: Philopappos Hill (views), Lycabettus Hill (panoramas), Piraeus Port (Aegean ferries)
Key update: Since the Metro Line 3 expanded, you can now travel directly from Athens Airport (ATH) to Syntagma and Monastiraki, making city arrival seamless—tap your Ath.ena Card for a fast, direct transfer in under 40 minutes.
Top things to do in Athens
Start with the classics, then mix in a stroll through buzzing markets or a day trip for the full Athens experience.
Walk the Acropolis: climb to ancient temples, see the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Theatre of Dionysus with fast-track Acropolis tickets Athens.
Explore the New Acropolis Museum: marvel at original Caryatids, Parthenon marbles, and glass-floor excavations with Acropolis Museum tickets.
Stroll the Ancient Agora: explore birthplace of democracy—Temple of Hephaestus, Bouleuterion, Tholos, and the Stoa of Attalos.
Hop aboard the Athens hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus for 48-hour access to major Athens attractions and neighborhoods.
Discover the Museum of Illusions Athens: an interactive experience popular with families and creatives.
Tour the National Archaeology Museum: see Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures.
Wander Plaka and Anafiotika: meander cobblestone lanes below the Acropolis, lined with neoclassical houses and vibrant cafés.
Shop and eat your way through Monastiraki Flea Market: vintage finds, street food, local crafts near the ancient Library of Hadrian.
Visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds: combine these with a central Athens walking tour.
Catch sunset at Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon: join a guided sunset tour for dramatic views over the Aegean.
Take a day trip to Delphi or Ancient Corinth: absorb Greece’s classical and mythological heritage in a single outing.
Climb Lycabettus Hill: panoramic views—arrive by funicular or hike up for the best cityscape photos.
Tickets and city passes in Athens
Buy Athens passes or attraction tickets in advance to skip queues and stay flexible.
Athens City Pass (Turbopass): Access 20+ sites—Acropolis, museums, hop-on-hop-off Athens bus tickets—plus discounts and a digital city guide.
Athens MegaPass: All-in-one for the Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, National Archaeology Museum, bus tour, eSIM, and top day trips.
Acropolis & Parthenon Entry Ticket: Main landmark, with upgrade to Acropolis Museum or guided options. Book early access for fewer crowds.
Combo Acropolis & Bus Tour: Bundle the Acropolis (and Parthenon) with 2-day bus transit for an efficient Athens intro.
Ancient Agora tickets with audio guide: Great for deeper exploration—covers Temple of Hephaestus and civic sites.
Guided and self-guided walking tours: Multiple themes span central neighborhoods, ancient sites, and Athens art & food culture.
If you plan at least two paid Athens attractions—like the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum—an Athens City Pass or MegaPass is likely to save money, cut time at entries, and provide extras like transport and guides.
Getting around Athens by metro, tram, and bus
The Athens Metro, buses, trams, and airport trains let you connect ancient sites, neighborhoods, and the coast with one fare card.
Metro lines: Lines 1 (Green, Piraeus–Kifisia), 2 (Red, Anthoupoli–Elliniko), 3 (Blue, Airport–Dimotiko Theatro) hit key sites—Syntagma, Monastiraki, Acropolis, Omonia.
Ath.ena Card: Use for Metro, bus, tram, suburban rail; daily/weekly options, tap in/out at gates. Airport supplement for Metro/Express Bus.
Airport to city: From ATH, Metro Line 3 to Syntagma (~40 mins), or X95 express bus to Syntagma (24/7). Taxi flat rate to city center.
Main rail hub: Larissa Station for intercity trains northward.
Trams: Connect center to Athens Riviera (beaches, marinas—runs from Syntagma to Glyfada).
Traffic tips: Historic center is walkable but driving and parking are tricky—use Metro or bus for fastest transfers.
Alternative transport: Licensed taxis at key ranks, and rideshare (Beat) work well; ferries at Piraeus for Aegean islands day trips.
Tip: Late-night Metro closes ~12:30am (Fridays/Saturdays later). Use Express Buses or taxis for early or late airport connections.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
Spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) are ideal—expect highs of 20-29°C, light rain, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Summer (late June through August) sees lively festivals but brings hot, dry weather (up to 35°C+) and dense crowds at marquee sites. Winters (December to March) are mild, slow-paced (10-17°C), and see major museums and sites open year-round, often with lower prices.
How many days do you need in Athens?
Two days fit the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, New Acropolis Museum, and a Monastiraki walk. With three to four days, add the National Archaeology Museum, Plaka, and a hop-on-hop-off bus loop or Cape Sounion sunset tour. Five days lets you explore neighbor districts and take a guided day trip to Delphi or Corinth for myth-filled landscapes and ruins.
Is the Athens City Pass worth it?
The Athens City Pass pays off if you’ll do the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, at least one more major site, and use the hop-on-hop-off bus or public transport. It’s a great value for short stays with packed itineraries. For minimal sightseeing, individual tickets may be better. Always review included attractions before purchase.
What are the must-see attractions in Athens?
The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential. Add the New Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora (Temple of Hephaestus), Roman Agora, and Theatre of Dionysus. Don’t skip Monastiraki Flea Market, Plaka’s historic lanes, and the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. If time allows, the National Archaeology Museum is a treasure trove spanning millennia.
Do I need to book Acropolis tickets in advance?
Yes—Acropolis tickets frequently sell out, especially April to October. Advance purchase with timed entry is best for skipping lines and accessing less crowded time slots, like early morning. Upgrades add guides or museum entry. If sold out, consider combo packages or late-afternoon slots when crowds ease.
How do I get from ATH airport to central Athens?
Take Metro Line 3 from ATH airport directly to Syntagma Square or Monastiraki—about 40 minutes. The X95 express bus runs 24/7 to Syntagma for a budget ride (60 minutes). Licensed taxis have a flat rate (about €40-€55) to the center. Prebooked shuttles and rideshares (Beat) are reliable alternatives.
Where should I stay in Athens?
Plaka is ideal for first-timers, steps from the Acropolis. Monastiraki suits nightlife and quirky markets. Kolonaki offers upscale boutiques and quiet cafés, while Koukaki blends local life with museum access. Syntagma is best for transit links and shopping. Thiseio has great views and green space. Exarcheia feels young and alternative.
What are easy day trips from Athens?
Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon) is a popular sunset destination under 90 minutes from central Athens. The archaeological site of Delphi offers ancient ruins and dramatic mountain settings—a full-day guided tour fits perfectly. Ancient Corinth, with its famous canal and agora, makes another worthwhile trip. Ferries from Piraeus unlock Aegina and Hydra in a day.
Athens quick facts: airports, main stations and maps
Plan your days with these essential travel details for Athens, Greece.
Region/Country: Attica, Greece (European Union)
Airport: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)
Main train station: Athens Railway Station (Larissa Station)
Metro lines: Athens Metro Lines 1 (Green), 2 (Red), 3 (Blue)
Fare card: Ath.ena Card (reloadable, daily and multi-day fares, contactless)
Coordinates: 37.9842° N, 23.7281° E
Popular neighbourhoods: Plaka (historic core), Monastiraki (market and nightlife), Koukaki (museums, cafés), Kolonaki (upscale shops, galleries), Syntagma (transport hub), Psyri (bars, artisan shops), Thiseio (views, open-air cafés), Exarcheia (student, alternative culture)
Other highlights: Philopappos Hill (views), Lycabettus Hill (panoramas), Piraeus Port (Aegean ferries)
Key update: Since the Metro Line 3 expanded, you can now travel directly from Athens Airport (ATH) to Syntagma and Monastiraki, making city arrival seamless—tap your Ath.ena Card for a fast, direct transfer in under 40 minutes.
Top things to do in Athens
Start with the classics, then mix in a stroll through buzzing markets or a day trip for the full Athens experience.
Walk the Acropolis: climb to ancient temples, see the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Theatre of Dionysus with fast-track Acropolis tickets Athens.
Explore the New Acropolis Museum: marvel at original Caryatids, Parthenon marbles, and glass-floor excavations with Acropolis Museum tickets.
Stroll the Ancient Agora: explore birthplace of democracy—Temple of Hephaestus, Bouleuterion, Tholos, and the Stoa of Attalos.
Hop aboard the Athens hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus for 48-hour access to major Athens attractions and neighborhoods.
Discover the Museum of Illusions Athens: an interactive experience popular with families and creatives.
Tour the National Archaeology Museum: see Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures.
Wander Plaka and Anafiotika: meander cobblestone lanes below the Acropolis, lined with neoclassical houses and vibrant cafés.
Shop and eat your way through Monastiraki Flea Market: vintage finds, street food, local crafts near the ancient Library of Hadrian.
Visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds: combine these with a central Athens walking tour.
Catch sunset at Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon: join a guided sunset tour for dramatic views over the Aegean.
Take a day trip to Delphi or Ancient Corinth: absorb Greece’s classical and mythological heritage in a single outing.
Climb Lycabettus Hill: panoramic views—arrive by funicular or hike up for the best cityscape photos.
Tickets and city passes in Athens
Buy Athens passes or attraction tickets in advance to skip queues and stay flexible.
Athens City Pass (Turbopass): Access 20+ sites—Acropolis, museums, hop-on-hop-off Athens bus tickets—plus discounts and a digital city guide.
Athens MegaPass: All-in-one for the Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, National Archaeology Museum, bus tour, eSIM, and top day trips.
Acropolis & Parthenon Entry Ticket: Main landmark, with upgrade to Acropolis Museum or guided options. Book early access for fewer crowds.
Combo Acropolis & Bus Tour: Bundle the Acropolis (and Parthenon) with 2-day bus transit for an efficient Athens intro.
Ancient Agora tickets with audio guide: Great for deeper exploration—covers Temple of Hephaestus and civic sites.
Guided and self-guided walking tours: Multiple themes span central neighborhoods, ancient sites, and Athens art & food culture.
If you plan at least two paid Athens attractions—like the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum—an Athens City Pass or MegaPass is likely to save money, cut time at entries, and provide extras like transport and guides.
Getting around Athens by metro, tram, and bus
The Athens Metro, buses, trams, and airport trains let you connect ancient sites, neighborhoods, and the coast with one fare card.
Metro lines: Lines 1 (Green, Piraeus–Kifisia), 2 (Red, Anthoupoli–Elliniko), 3 (Blue, Airport–Dimotiko Theatro) hit key sites—Syntagma, Monastiraki, Acropolis, Omonia.
Ath.ena Card: Use for Metro, bus, tram, suburban rail; daily/weekly options, tap in/out at gates. Airport supplement for Metro/Express Bus.
Airport to city: From ATH, Metro Line 3 to Syntagma (~40 mins), or X95 express bus to Syntagma (24/7). Taxi flat rate to city center.
Main rail hub: Larissa Station for intercity trains northward.
Trams: Connect center to Athens Riviera (beaches, marinas—runs from Syntagma to Glyfada).
Traffic tips: Historic center is walkable but driving and parking are tricky—use Metro or bus for fastest transfers.
Alternative transport: Licensed taxis at key ranks, and rideshare (Beat) work well; ferries at Piraeus for Aegean islands day trips.
Tip: Late-night Metro closes ~12:30am (Fridays/Saturdays later). Use Express Buses or taxis for early or late airport connections.
When is the best time to visit Athens?
Spring (April to early June) and fall (September to October) are ideal—expect highs of 20-29°C, light rain, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Summer (late June through August) sees lively festivals but brings hot, dry weather (up to 35°C+) and dense crowds at marquee sites. Winters (December to March) are mild, slow-paced (10-17°C), and see major museums and sites open year-round, often with lower prices.
How many days do you need in Athens?
Two days fit the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, New Acropolis Museum, and a Monastiraki walk. With three to four days, add the National Archaeology Museum, Plaka, and a hop-on-hop-off bus loop or Cape Sounion sunset tour. Five days lets you explore neighbor districts and take a guided day trip to Delphi or Corinth for myth-filled landscapes and ruins.
Is the Athens City Pass worth it?
The Athens City Pass pays off if you’ll do the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, at least one more major site, and use the hop-on-hop-off bus or public transport. It’s a great value for short stays with packed itineraries. For minimal sightseeing, individual tickets may be better. Always review included attractions before purchase.
What are the must-see attractions in Athens?
The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential. Add the New Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora (Temple of Hephaestus), Roman Agora, and Theatre of Dionysus. Don’t skip Monastiraki Flea Market, Plaka’s historic lanes, and the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. If time allows, the National Archaeology Museum is a treasure trove spanning millennia.
Do I need to book Acropolis tickets in advance?
Yes—Acropolis tickets frequently sell out, especially April to October. Advance purchase with timed entry is best for skipping lines and accessing less crowded time slots, like early morning. Upgrades add guides or museum entry. If sold out, consider combo packages or late-afternoon slots when crowds ease.
How do I get from ATH airport to central Athens?
Take Metro Line 3 from ATH airport directly to Syntagma Square or Monastiraki—about 40 minutes. The X95 express bus runs 24/7 to Syntagma for a budget ride (60 minutes). Licensed taxis have a flat rate (about €40-€55) to the center. Prebooked shuttles and rideshares (Beat) are reliable alternatives.
Where should I stay in Athens?
Plaka is ideal for first-timers, steps from the Acropolis. Monastiraki suits nightlife and quirky markets. Kolonaki offers upscale boutiques and quiet cafés, while Koukaki blends local life with museum access. Syntagma is best for transit links and shopping. Thiseio has great views and green space. Exarcheia feels young and alternative.
What are easy day trips from Athens?
Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon) is a popular sunset destination under 90 minutes from central Athens. The archaeological site of Delphi offers ancient ruins and dramatic mountain settings—a full-day guided tour fits perfectly. Ancient Corinth, with its famous canal and agora, makes another worthwhile trip. Ferries from Piraeus unlock Aegina and Hydra in a day.