Fun Things To Do in Athens: Video Guide
Fun Things To Do in Athens: Top 10 Ancient Wonders and Hidden Gems
2. Explore Greek History at the Acropolis Museum
This modern museum houses artifacts found on the Acropolis and its slopes. Its highlight is the top-floor Parthenon Gallery, with a 360-degree glass enclosure offering a panoramic view of the Acropolis.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the museum’s restaurant, which offers excellent Greek cuisine with a view of the Acropolis.
3. Step Back in Time at the Ancient Agora
Once the heart of ancient Athens, the Agora was the center of the city’s political and social life. Don’t miss the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which now houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora.
4. Explore the Vibrant Neighborhood of Plaka
Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens, is a maze of narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and charming cafes. It’s the perfect place to wander, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the local atmosphere.
5. Uncover Ancient Artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum
Housing the world’s finest collection of Greek antiquities, this museum is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Highlights include the Gold Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient analog computer.
6. Indulge in a Greek Food Tour
Replace the Byzantine Museum with a culinary adventure! Join a guided food tour through the bustling Central Market (Varvakeios Agora) and nearby streets. Sample local delicacies like loukoumades (Greek donuts), koulouri (sesame bread rings), and various Greek cheeses and olives.
Foodie Tip: Look for tours that include a visit to a traditional Greek taverna for an authentic meal experience.
7. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square
Watch the impressive ceremonial changing of the guard in front of the Hellenic Parliament. The guards, known as Evzones, perform their precise routine every hour, with a more elaborate ceremony on Sundays at 11 am.
8. Shop and Dine at Agia Irini Square
Instead of the Roman Agora, explore this trendy square in the heart of Athens. It’s surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. By day, it’s perfect for coffee and people-watching; by night, it transforms into a vibrant hub for dining and drinks.
Local Favorite: Try Lukumades, a shop specializing in traditional Greek donuts with modern twists.
9. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium
This all-marble stadium hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896. Today, visitors can walk on the track, visit the small museum, and even stand on the winner’s podium.
10. Take a Street Art Tour in Psyrri
In place of the Olympieion, discover Athens’ vibrant contemporary culture through its street art. The neighborhood of Psyrri is known for its colorful murals and graffiti. Join a guided tour to learn about the artists and the stories behind their work.
Art Lover’s Tip: Combine your street art tour with a visit to some of Psyrri’s trendy bars and restaurants for a full taste of Athens’ modern cultural scene.
Interesting Facts About Athens
- Athens is Europe’s oldest capital city, with a recorded history spanning over 3,400 years.
- The city is named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, who became its patron after a contest with Poseidon.
- The Athens Metro is like a mini-museum – many stations display artifacts found during its construction.
- The modern marathon race is based on the legend of Pheidippides, a messenger who ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over the Persians.
- Athens hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
- The city experiences an average of 115 days of rain per year, making it one of the sunniest capitals in Europe.
- Celebrity Fact: Many scenes from “Before Midnight” (2013), starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, were filmed in the nearby Peloponnese region, showcasing the beauty of Greek landscapes.
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