A Complete Guide for Travelers

Below you´ll find the 10 Must-See Spots that I think belong to a complete ATHEN trip:

• Acropolis
• Philopappos Hill Viewpoint
• Plaka
• Anafiotika
• Lycabettus Hill
• National Archaeological Museum
• Souvlaki Kosta
• Monastiraki Square
• Hyper Astro Bar
• Akanthus Summer Club

1. Acropolis

The Acropolis is Athens’ beating heart, a must-see for any visitor. The climb is steep, but the view of the Parthenon and the city below is worth every step. Standing among those ancient columns, I felt history come alive.

Opening Hours: Summer (April–October) 8:00 AM–8:00 PM, Winter (November–March) 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Prices: Summer €20, Winter €10, Combo ticket (incl. Agora, Temple of Zeus, etc.) €30. Free entry on select days, e.g., first Sunday of November–March. Also free entry if your 25 or yonger!

Tips: Buy tickets online (e.g., via Hellenic Heritage Eticket) to skip lines. Use the South Entrance (Metro: Acropoli) as the North Entrance is often crowded. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; food is prohibited.

Key Info: Strollers and large bags aren’t allowed; luggage storage is available. Wheelchair users can use the elevator (pre-booking required). Photography is allowed, but drones are banned.

2. Philopappos Hill Viewpoint

Philopappos Hill was my secret gem for a stunning Acropolis view, especially at sunset. The short hike through greenery was refreshing, and the top felt like a step back in time.

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7.

Prices: Free.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be steep. Sunset is magical, but arrive early for a good spot. Bring a picnic to enjoy the view.

Key Info: Less crowded than Areopagus Hill, perfect for photos. The path isn’t lit, so be cautious at night.

3. Plaka

Plaka, the old town below the Acropolis, charmed me with its narrow streets and colorful houses. I strolled through boutiques and sipped coffee while watching the world go by.

Opening Hours: Shops and tavernas mostly 10:00 AM–10:00 PM, restaurants often open until midnight.

Prices: Free to explore, meals/drinks €5–15 per dish.

Tips: Wander the streets around Adrianou Street. Try “Bairaktaris” taverna for authentic food (gyros pita ~€3). Visit early or late to avoid tourist crowds.

Key Info: Great for souvenirs and relaxed walks. Lively but safe at night. Metro: Acropoli or Monastiraki.

4. Anafiotika

Anafiotika felt like a tiny Cycladic village in the heart of Athens. The whitewashed houses and blue shutters were a perfect escape from the city buzz. I loved the quiet, winding alleys.

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7.

Prices: Free.

Tips: Visit in the morning for peace. Great for photos, but respect residents’ privacy. Wear comfy shoes due to stairs.

Key Info: Located above Plaka, near the Acropolis. No restaurants in the area, but Plaka is nearby.

5. Lycabettus Hill

Climbing Lycabettus Hill was tough, but the panoramic view of Athens was unforgettable. Sipping coffee at the top with the city at my feet was a trip highlight.

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7, funicular 9:00 AM–2:30 AM (last ride).

Prices: Funicular round-trip €7, free to walk.

Tips: Take the funicular (Metro: Evangelismos) if the climb’s too much. Visit at night for lit-up city views. The café up top is pricey (coffee ~€5), but the view’s worth it.

Key Info: The walking path is steep; wear good shoes. There’s a chapel and restaurant at the summit.

6. National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum was a history nerd’s paradise. The sculptures, pottery, and Antikythera Mechanism left me in awe.

Opening Hours: Summer 8:00 AM–8:00 PM, Winter 8:00 AM–3:00 PM (Mondays from 1:00 PM).

Prices: Summer €12, Winter €6, combo ticket with other museums available.

Tips: Plan at least 2 hours. The audio guide (~€5) adds great context. Don’t miss the bronzes and Cycladic collection.

Key Info: Metro: Omonia or Victoria. Photography allowed (no flash). Museum café for a break.

7. Souvlaki Kosta

At Souvlaki Kosta in Plaka, I had the best souvlaki of my life. The tiny shop was packed, but the fresh ingredients and flavor were unbeatable.

Opening Hours: Mon–Sat 12:00 PM–6:00 PM, closed Sundays.

Prices: Souvlaki €2.50–3.

Tips: Arrive early to beat the rush. Take away and eat in Plaka as seating is limited. Vegetarian options available.

Key Info: Address: Pentelis 5, Plaka. Bring cash; card payments aren’t always accepted.

8. Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square was a vibrant hub: flea market, street music, and Acropolis views made it unforgettable. I browsed antiques and soaked in the lively atmosphere.

Opening Hours: 24/7, flea market ~8:00 AM–8:00 PM, liveliest on Sundays.

Prices: Free, purchases vary (souvenirs from €1).

Tips: Visit Sundays for the full flea market experience. Watch for pickpockets in crowds. Try “Bairaktaris” nearby for snacks.

Key Info: Metro: Monastiraki. Great for cheap souvenirs and street food.

9. Hyper Astro Bar

Hyper Astro Bar was my go-to for a chill evening. The retro vibes and creative cocktails won me over, and the city view was a bonus.

Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 PM–2:00 AM, often later.

Prices: Cocktails €8–12, snacks €5–10.

Tips: Book ahead, especially on weekends. The rooftop is a must for Acropolis views. Try the “Astro Smash” cocktail!

Key Info: Address: Praxitelous 30. Metro: Panepistimio. Live music some nights.

10. Akanthus Summer Club

I danced the night away at Akanthus Summer Club. The open-air vibe and energetic DJs made it unforgettable. Athens at night has its own magic!

Opening Hours: Fri–Sat 10:00 PM–6:00 AM (summer, May–October), otherwise closed.

Prices: Entry €10–15, drinks €8–15.

Tips: Dress smartly; it’s a trendy spot. Arrive early to avoid lines. Cocktails are pricey but high-quality.

Key Info: Address: Leof. Poseidonos 2, Alimos. Best reached by taxi or Uber, as it’s outside the city center.