Athens is a city where ancient myths meet modern energy. Walking through the streets, the energy of the gods, philosophers, and artists who helped shape Western civilisation is ever-present. It is a blend of modern city life and classical life. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or culture seeker, Athens deserves a top spot on your euro-summer itinerary.
A city of history and culture
One of the best ways to experience Athens is with the Athens Combined Ticket — a multi-day pass granting access to all the major archaeological sites. At €42/£35, it offers significant savings over individual entry fees and allows you to hop between landmarks. Be sure to ask for the reduced ticket if you’re under 25! This is usually €10/£8. A bus tour around the city is another brilliant way to get your bearings – cruise past all the highlights on these tours, around €20/£17, with audio guides bringing the history to life.
The Temple of Zeus, dedicated to the King of the Gods, now in ruins, is a must-visit. One of the largest temples of the ancient world, it is surrounded by wild grass and is still a wonder to behold. Look closely and you might spot brown turtles sunbathing nearby.
The Parthenon and the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena, are the iconic landmarks of Athens, visible on the high hill from most points of the city. If there is one place to go in Athens, this is it. Step right into ancient civilisation and explore the architectural wonders of the world. Stretched endlessly in every direction, the mosaic of whitewashed buildings and terracotta rooftops is mesmerising. Pair this with a visit to the Acropolis Museum (€15/£12 or €10/£8 if you’re under 25 or over 65).
The Roman Agora and Temple of Hephaestus are hidden gems. Here you walk on paths worn by Athenians and philosophers, including Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. Nestled beside the Agora sits the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Its marble columns are untouched by time, and the whole scene feels as if you’re walking through an epic.
Right down the road from the Agora, for a look into the quiet and culture of Athens, visit Hadrian’s Library. Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, this is a step right into ancient education. Though quieter than its flashier counterparts, its elegant columns and inner courtyard are perfect for slow wandering. Its open courtyards are perfect for a slow afternoon wander in the city.
Then, take a break from the roaring city and visit the Athens National Garden, which is free to visit. Positioned opposite the Temple of Zeus, escape the city heat by stepping under the cool, shaded canopy of the gardens. This peaceful refuge was once a royal garden, and still feels regal.
The Panathenaic Stadium is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Walking through feels like time travel into ancient sports and games. Sit on the cold stone seats and imagine the roar of a crowd cheering chariots or runners. The track invites a rare chance to run in the footsteps of Olympic legends.
Exploring beyond Athens
Only 100 miles from Athens is Delphi. A day trip to the mystical sanctuary of Apollo is perfect for history and philosophy lovers. Wander through mountainous ruins once believed to be the navel of the world, with stunning views and rich mythology. This mountain sanctuary offers haunting ruins and a mystical atmosphere, hidden among trees and hills. Key Tours is a great, reliable company that offers interesting and affordable tours around Delphi, the Parthenon and more, costing €39.53/£33.86 for the Delphi tour, and €25/£21 for the Acropolis tour. Key tours have expert tour guides who provide in-depth knowledge, and arrange the transport, itinerary and food all for you, ensuring 5-star experiences.
Eating in Athens
Athens restaurants are second to none. Avoid the busy restaurants with the big signs and English options, and go to the smaller restaurants, down the quieter streets, for real, authentic meals that are half the price.
Zorbas Restaurant, Restaurant Scholarhio and To Kafeneio are must-visit places for authentic, reasonably priced food for outdoor ambience and to soak in street music. For a starter, a Greek salad is the best choice: always fresh, always with a block of creamy feta on top. For lunch, gyros are the ultimate choice: spiced meat or halloumi, tzatziki, tomato and fries, wrapped in warm pita. Visit O Gyros pou Girevis, a local, small vendor for a real, authentic experience, for under €10/£8.
For a refreshing side, a tzatziki, a cool, garlicky dip, is the obvious choice or a taramosalata, hummus or feta dip, paired with bread or chips, for usually under €5/£4.20. For dinner, a classic Greek kebab – with meat or vegetarian options – is faultless, or a Pastitsio, a Greek take on a lasagna. For those with a sweet tooth, visit Lukumade, which serves traditional Greek doughnuts with honey and cinnamon, paired with coffee for that enhanced flavour, for around €7/£6.
Rooftop bars are a must-visit. Enjoy your dining in style with a view of the Parthenon, beautifully lit up at night, and a wonderful blue during the day. There is truly no better view than eating and drinking in front of the Parthenon. To get the best view, visit places around Plaka, Monastiraki and Koukaki, all within walking distance to the Parthenon. The Royal Olympic Hotel is a perfect choice for a rooftop bar and restaurant; adjacent to the Temple of Zeus and has an exquisite view of the Acropolis. Drinks here are a bit more pricey, around €12/£10 for a drink, but you pay for the view!
Athens doesn’t just show you its history, it makes you feel part of it. Whether you’re standing on marble steps where philosophers once spoke, or laughing over wine as the Parthenon glows in the distance, this city is not to be missed.
Words by Maicey Navarro Griffiths
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