Athens

Acropolis views, souvlaki joints & Psiri nights

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Athens is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Vrahakia (Areopagus Rocks), Acropolis & Parthenon and Acropolis Museum. Food lovers should not miss Elvis Souvlaki and Panellinion Chess Coffee-House. Below you will find 49 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Athens at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Vrahakia (Areopagus Rocks) and Acropolis & Parthenon
Where to stay: Kerameikos and Monastiraki
Local picks: 49 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Athens

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

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Where to stay in Athens

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City centre

Panellinion Chess Coffee-House

Time seems to have stopped in this coffee-house of well over a century, where regulars nurse a Greek coffee and hunch over the chessboard set out on every table. The walls are lined with photos of famous players; strike up a game (Karpov once played here in 1992) and ask owner Yiannis for a plate of meze.

★ 4.5

Centre

Perianth Hotel

An art-filled boutique in a restored Bauhaus building near Monastiraki, full of contemporary Greek design and a great little rooftop. Creative, central and personable.

★ 4.6

Plaka

The oldest neighbourhood in Athens, a charming maze of neoclassical houses, bougainvillea-draped lanes and cafes wrapped around the base of the Acropolis. Touristy but lovely – wander up into quiet Anafiotika to escape the crowds.

★ 4.7

Exarchia

Rakoumel

A warm, family-run Cretan spot in Exarchia with big-hearted food, flowing raki and rebetika live-music nights. Great small plates and a proper local atmosphere – exactly the kind of place you linger in for hours.

★ 4.5

Plaka

Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds

The Roman-era marketplace on the edge of Plaka, centred on the elegant octagonal Tower of the Winds – an ancient weather station and water clock. A quick, atmospheric stop covered by the combo ticket.

★ 4.5

Monastiraki

Six d.o.g.s

A sprawling all-day cultural hub near Monastiraki – café and leafy garden by day, buzzing bar, club and gig venue by night. One of the anchors of central Athens nightlife and creativity, open year-round.

Koukaki

Skoubri

A Koukaki favourite that grew from a neighbourhood fish joint into a smart little seafood meze spot – chargrilled sardines, octopus and the day’s fish done simply and well. Local, warm and reasonably priced.

★ 4.6

Syntagma

Syntagma & Changing of the Guard

The kilt-and-pom-pom-clad Evzones guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of Parliament, changing over with a slow, high-kicking ritual on the hour. Come Sunday at 11am for the full ceremony with the band.

★ 4.5

Centre

Temple of Olympian Zeus

A handful of colossal columns are all that remain of what was once the largest temple in Greece, next to Hadrian’s Arch. Small but striking, and covered by the combined Acropolis ticket.

★ 4.5

Kolonaki

The Modernist Athens

A discreet, elegant boutique in chic Kolonaki, all clean mid-century lines and warm service on a quiet residential street near the shops and museums. A refined, low-key base away from the tourist crush.

★ 4.6

Centre

Varvakios Central Market

Athens’ raucous central market – a cathedral of hanging meat, glistening fish and, around it, stalls of olives, spices, cheese and herbs. Grab a bowl of patsas or a bite at one of the legendary market tavernas.

★ 4.4

Thiseio

Vrahakia (Areopagus Rocks)

“Vrahakia” means little rocks – the smooth stone top of the Areopagus hill, with a sweeping view over Athens and the mountains ringing the Attica basin. A wonderful spot for a morning coffee with friends before the crowds, and the Acropolis entrance is just a few steps away. Find the path opposite Cine Thisseio.

★ 4.6

Before you go

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Athens travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Athens?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Athens at a relaxed pace. See our Athens itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Athens?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Athens guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Athens?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Athens?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Athens is worth visiting year-round.