Athens attractions

Set along the coastline south of Athens, Glyfada Beach is one of the top seaside destinations from the city. This long stretch of sand and pebbles is lapped by the clear waters of the Saronic Gulf—ideal for swimming and sunbathing—and direct tram connections from Syntagma Square take you from the heart of Athens to the beach in under an hour.

A paradise for coin enthusiasts, the Athens Numismatic Museum is one of the most important of its kind worldwide. Admire its collection of more than 500,000 rare coins, weights, seals, medals, and gemstones from across the globe—all housed in the lavish Iliou Melathron residence. One of Athens’ most beautiful neoclassical mansions, it was originally home to Troy archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann.

Amid the bustle of Ermou, Athens’ main shopping street, the Greek Orthodox Church of Panagia Kapnikarea stands out. With a history dating back to the 11th century and the Byzantine era, it’s one of the city’s oldest churches, though the structure has evolved over time. The dazzling frescoes are by Photis Kontoglou, a renowned 20th-century icon painter, or artists from his workshop.

Marvel at one of the world’s top collections of Byzantine icons and mosaics at the Byzantine & Christian Museum, housed in the elegant neoclassical Villa Ilissia. Drawing on more than 25,000 treasures from across the Greek world, the museum traces the development of early Christian and Greek Byzantine culture from the 3rd century until the modern era.

Stargazers and science buffs can marvel at the mysteries of the universe at the spectacular Eugenides Foundation New Digital Planetarium. Not only is the 278-seat planetarium one of the world’s largest, with almost 1 acre (4,047 square meters) of dome surface, it’s also known for being technologically advanced. It offers visitors spectacular virtual trips into space—when it’s not screening astronomy-themed IMAX movies.

A local icon, the armored cruiser Georgios Averof served Greece in conflicts from 1910–1952—including both world wars. Built in Italy around 1910, the decommissioned cruiser is now moored near a replica ancient trireme in Athens’ Flisvos Marina. The Floating Naval Museum—Battleship Georgios Averof has four decks open to the public, including the officer and crew quarters, engine rooms, and kitchens.

The Museum of Cycladic Art houses one of the top ancient art collections in Athens, centered around the Cycladic figurines dating from 3000 BC to 2000 BC that inspired many 20th-century artists. Also admire Greek and Cypriot art spanning the millennia between 2000 BC and AD 300, as well as a multimedia exhibit of scenes from daily life in ancient Greece, plus occasional special exhibitions.

Located just 12 miles (19 kilometers) from downtown Athens in the coastal town of Vouliagmeni, Megalo Kavouri is one of the most easily accessible beaches for a quick break from the bustle of the city. This popular stretch of coastline has all you need for a day of sunbathing and swimming, including several restaurants and cafés, an offshore islet, a playground, and the remains of an ancient road.

The Athens War Museum (Polemiko Mouseio) is located just north of the city center and provides a comprehensive history of Greece’s military involvement dating from ancient times through modern day. The museum showcases preserved war relics and seeks to bring Greece’s national history to life, as well as honoring soldiers that gave their lives in service to their country. For those interested in Greek military history, this museum is a must-visit during a trip to Athens.

Situated in Athens’ historic Plaka neighborhood, the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates is a symbol of ancient Greek architectural innovation and cultural influence. A freestanding pillar created in the Corinthian style, the monument was erected to serve as a prize for a choral competition victory, and was funded by its namesake, Lysicrates. Those interested in ancient Greek history and architecture won’t want to miss a visit to this noteworthy site during a trip to Athens.

The Dora Stratou Greek Dances Theater is the single most authentic way to enjoy Greek dance in Athens—it’s a living museum with an inventory of more than 2,000 handmade costumes and jewelry pieces from around the country. During the summer, the dance company runs regular performances at its open-air theater. There are also classes, workshops, and courses in Greek dance.

Take a break from Athens’ ancient sites and have fun while challenging your power of imagination at the unique and interactive Museum of Illusions. Explore its images, exhibits, and entire rooms created to trick the eye and baffle the mind, plus snap striking photos that appear to defy the laws of physics. Book a group guided tour with museum staff or visit at your own pace.

Many visitors in search of sun and sand land in Athens and flee the Greek capital for islands like Santorini or Mykonos. But Vouliagmeni Beach is where Athenians go when they’re looking to relax, and it has quickly become a favorite among international visitors, too. After all, it’s not for nothing that the Four Seasons has a luxury resort, Astir Palace, in Vouliagmeni, while the modest entrance fee makes the beach accessible to daytrippers, too.

Athens is known as Greece's capital of fashion and style, so between seeing the sights, you may find a shopping trip beckons. One of the best places to pick up a new outfit—and have some fun bargain-hunting—is at the Athens Designer Outlet, east of the city center. The open-air complex brings together hundreds of brands, providing a luxury shopping experience at discounted prices.

Centered on the work of pioneering Greek jeweler Ilias Lalaounis (1920–2013) and housed in his former home, the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum also hosts exhibitions of art, glass, jewelry, and more by other artists. In addition to 4,500 examples of Lalaounis’ classically influenced gold pieces, the diverse permanent collection displays works from as far afield as India and as far back as the 18th century, as well as pieces by modern jewelers.

Just a few blocks away from the National Archaeological Museum, the Hellenic Motor Museum is filled with old classics of a whole different genre. Spread over three floors within the popular Athenian Capitol Mall, the collection features more than 100 classic cars, vintage motors, and antique vehicles spanning from the 1800s to the 20th century. Dive into the history of automotive design, and admire rare cars, as well as classics from Ferrari to Rolls-Royce.

From the 8th to 6th centuries BC, Delphi was a sanctuary, known as the sacred abode of Apollo, the Olympian god of light, music, and knowledge. It was here that the Oracle of Apollo delivered prophecies that impacted the ancient world. Today, the area is a protected archaeological site and its treasures are housed in this museum, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi.

Once the home of important modern Greek painter Niko Ghika, the Ghika Gallery (Pinakothiki Ghika) centers on his work. (English writers generally spell his full name Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika or Nikos Chatzikyriakos-Gikas.) Besides Ghika’s art and possessions, it celebrates the Greek artistic and literary culture of the mid-20th century.

From the 8th to 6th centuries BC, Delphi was home to a sanctuary with a revered status throughout the ancient world. That’s because it was here that the Oracle of Apollo issued prophecies that changed the course of history. Today, Delphi is a UNESCO–listed archaeological site and museum. Though only a few weathered pillars remain, the Temple of Apollo is considered one of its most important monuments.

A low, rocky hill between the Acropolis and the Agora of Athens, the Areopagus is steeped in history: One of the most important judicial councils in ancient times held trials here, and St. Paul famously addressed the Athenians on this very spot. But most travelers stop on this hilltop to enjoy the spectacular views it offers across Athens and the Acropolis, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

In the heart of Athens’ foodie district, the Central Market (or Varvakios Agora) is where locals have come to stock up on fresh fish, meat, cheeses, produce, and specialty foods since 1886. Bustling with activity from the early morning hours, it’s an ideal spot to sample authentic Greek delicacies.

One of the most spectacular Roman ruins in Athens, Hadrian’s Library draws travelers who want to delve into the city’s ancient history beyond the Acropolis. Take in the restored western wall and other surviving fragments of this massive 2nd-century cultural center that was once lined by 100 columns and contained a library, lecture halls, and exhibition spaces.

Located a short tram ride from Athens’ main Syntagma Square, Voula Beach is a popular spot along the Athenian Riviera for a quick seaside getaway. A hassle-free way to enjoy the coast for a few hours, this long stretch of sand has numerous beach clubs offering services such as umbrella and chair rentals, dining options, and places to hire water sports equipment.

Perched atop a high bastion by the Propylaea (the citadel’s main gate), the small Temple of Athena Nike (Victorious Athena) is one of the Acropolis’s essential sights. Built between 421 and 426 BC by Kallikrates, who also designed the more famous Parthenon, it’s a classic example of the Ionic style, with a 4-column portico at either end. The temple celebrates Athena—Athens’ patron and goddess of victory—and is a must-see for ancient history enthusiasts exploring the Acropolis.

A grand neoclassical structure with pillared colonnades and an elegant dome, the National Observatory of Athens stands atop the Hill of the Nymphs, with views across to the Parthenon. Since astronomical research has moved to spots with less light pollution, the site is now a museum of Greek astronomy; evening tours include a look at the night sky.

One of the most significant yet least crowded ancient ruins in Athens, the Kerameikos Archaeological Site is a welcome respite from Acropolis throngs. Explore the remains of this ancient cemetery—in which burials took place from the early Bronze Age through the Roman times—and admire temple columns, marble statues, ruins of public buildings, funeral offerings, and thousands of tombs in the open-air excavation and small adjacent museum.

One of three Byzantine monasteries to share a UNESCO World Heritage listing, the Monastery of Daphni can trace its history back to the 6th century. The 11th-century church features gorgeous mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Jesus on a gold background—a high point of Byzantine art—while a small basilica dates to the 9th century.

Standing tall above the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Tower of the Winds is considered the world’s first meteorological station. Built during the first century BC by the Greek astronomer Andronicus of Cyrrhus, this octagonal marble structure is decorated by a frieze depicting the eight wind deities corresponding to their direction. One of the most unique ancient sights in the city, this 39-foot (12-meter) tower is a must-see for archaeology and science buffs.

Zappeion Hall—or Zappeion Megaron—is one of Athens’ most remarkable modern buildings, with an elegant neoclassical design and vast size. It was originally built for the revival of the Olympic Games in 1896, but today it is used as a backdrop for important events and ceremonies. Admire its column-lined facade from the outside or attend an event to take in the richly decorated interiors.

Fans of modern art are drawn to the National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens (EMST), which showcases a permanent collection of Greek and international pieces, as well as temporary exhibitions. It is also a favorite with visiting architecture buffs—the museum is housed in the Fix building, a converted brewery that’s a landmark of industrial design. Many travelers claim that the on-site fine-dining restaurant is reason enough to visit, thanks to its Acropolis views, and it’s best to book ahead.