Greece is a unique country. With the vast majority falling on the mainland, the Greek islands account for just 20 per cent of the country. These include both the large islands that are popular with tourists and a huge number of small islets, of which there are almost 2,500 in total around Greece, 165 of which are permanently inhabited. If you want to discover the greek culture, it is worth starting your holiday with a visit to Athens. G

Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world, skilfully combining history with modernity. It was here that democracy was born and it is also the cradle of Western culture. There are so many things to do in Athens.

Athens, is one of the most important cities in human history, the cradle of our civilisation and the birthplace of democracy. It was here that Socrates or Sophocles created and developed, and today we can still find many traces of those ancient times in Athens.

How to explore Athens?

Walking through the city, you will encounter traces of ancient, Roman or Byzantine times, but interspersed with buildings that look as if they will collapse today or tomorrow at the latest. You can love or hate Athens, but you cannot pass by it indifferently.

If you are only visiting Athens for a short period of time and only plan to see the most important attractions, you should easily be able to get around on foot only. The most important attractions in Athens are spread out over a distance of about 3.5 kilometres, from the Kerameikos excavation site to the Panathenaic Stadium and Ancient Agora. With a well-planned walk, you will easily see all the highlights in one day from the outside. Nobody must not forget about Acropolis Museum.

It is worth knowing that the Athens metro is a free national archaeological museum. During the construction of the underground railway, many traces of antiquity were found, buildings, streets, cemeteries, tools or sculptures – from many periods, and from as far apart as Byzantine times, Roman times (Roman Emperor Hadrian) or the Mycenaean period (and more!).

Things to do in Athens

You should start your sightseeing with a visit to the Acropolis (Acropolis Museum), which opens at 8 a.m. There are the fewest tourists in the morning and you can see the most important sights of the historic hill in peace. The advantage of visiting in the morning is also the weather, at midday in the summer season the heat can be unbearable.

Once we have visited the Acropolis, we can plan the route as we wish, the other major attractions being within a range of about 3 kilometres. Greek history is at your fingertips! Of course, in addition to visiting Athens, you will have a great opportunity to try traditional Greek food, and the Greek ruins are sure to take a lot of energy out of your sightseeing.

When visiting the Greek capital, we should look out for brown plaques with yellow or white lettering that mark a monument, historical site or museum – they are worth looking out for, sometimes they can be in quite unexpected places. You are bound to find out more about greek mythology, which is truly exciting too!

List of things to see in Athens

Here you will find some must-see places related to top-notch ancient sites:

Acropolis

The Acropolis is certainly the most important site in the city and the biggest attraction in Athens. It is not only a landmark of the city but also of Greece and the whole of Europe. A leading representative of both ancient architecture and the prototype and universal, timeless inspiration of architects. This archaeological site is worth your time when you wish to visit Athens.

Erechtheion

The Erechtheion is a temple dedicated to Poseidon and Athena, proudly remembering the gods’ legendary struggle for the patronage of the city. According to myth, the place from which the salt water – Poseidon’s gift – flowed is located in the middle of the Erechtheion and takes the form of a well. An olive tree given to the inhabitants by Athena also grew there. Ancient Athens is something that will truly inspire you and your beloved ones.

Other buildings of the Acropolis

In addition to the listed buildings within the Acropolis, 17 other remains can also be admired here. Noteworthy among them are the temples of Athena Nike, Asclepios, Hekatompedon, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Pinacoteca. Ancient ruins are everywhere. Be sure that there are many things to do in Athens.

Areopag

The Areopagus is a hill adjacent to the Acropolis. In ancient times, it was dedicated to the god of war, Ares, as well as to Erynia, the goddesses of vengeance. It was also the meeting place of the city’s highest council. The Areopagus was also the site of St Paul’s famous speech. Today, however, it is a popular meeting place for Athenians. Local dwellers say that an incredible history merges with modernity.

Plaka

Plaka is the historic quarter of Athens. Vibrant, filled with shops, cafenions and slick marble pavements flitting between storied townhouses that in many cases stand on the foundations of ancient houses.

Are you still wondering what are other things to do in Athens? Check out our tour and discover Athens with Mr Shuttle?

We truly believe that every holiday should be packed with positive emotions, hassle-free movements and outstanding comfort. If you decide to have sightseeing with us, you will benefit from the below advantages:

Free hotel pick up and a private tour: Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation and once it’s over, transport you back to your hotel or any other place. Hassle-free travel is our speciality! We want to meet your expectations.. or even exceed them through an individual approach.

Skip the lines: When you book any tour with MrShuttle, all tickets are already included in the price to help you enjoy the trip.

We speak your language: Guided tours in English: If you are concerned with a new place and want to experience local heritage to the fullest, check out our offer and find out more about top Krakow tours. Time is money, and language is no more a barrier. In some cases, we provide more language options!

We are convinced that your day with Mr Shuttle will provide many different impressions and experiences thanks to a wide array of top highlights. Start your adventure with us and have fun without any interruptions. We want to make your tour very engaging by showing ancient greek landmarks, greek antiquity and ancient history. We will prove you that within one day the list of “things to do in Athens” is very long!