A modern city built on ancient foundations, Athens provides plenty for expats to see and do. You can discover the city’s history in its museums and monuments, but you can also experience it in your daily interactions. Becoming immersed in the various attractions in Athens is a great way to get to grips with your surroundings and to make yourself feel at home.

Below are some of the best things to see and do in Athens.

Recommended attractions in Athens

Acropolis of Athens with Parthenon and Erechtheion from Filopappou Hill

Acropolis of Athens

Set higher than the rest of the city, the Acropolis is the heart of Athens. The perfectly sculpted ancient marble buildings and stunning views of the city provide a memorable experience. The most famous monument is the Parthenon, a testament to craftsmanship during the height of Ancient Greece’s power.

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum was built in the shadow of the Acropolis itself and is a landmark in its own right. The museum’s layout provides panoramic views of the city and leads visitors along its walkways to discover ancient relics from the surrounding archaeological sites. Thousands of fascinating artefacts are on display.

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest of its kind in Greece and remains one of the world’s most prominent Ancient Greek museums. This museum is a must-see, with a rich collection of historical art dating back to the Prehistoric era.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Construction on this remarkable ancient site first began in the 6th century BC. More than 600 years later, the 104-column temple was completed. During the Roman period, the temple was the largest in all of Greece. Although the temple later fell into disuse, it is still possible to visit the ruin, where 16 beautiful Corinthian columns remain standing.

Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion was an important place of worship in Ancient Greece and is now a popular day-trip destination. Set on a cliff, this temple is dedicated to the god of the sea and provides breathtaking views of the ocean below.

What activities do expats recommend in Athens?

"If you are here for holiday, I would suggest seeing the Acropolis, of course, and also visiting the new Acropolis Museum. It has a very interesting video you can watch about the history of the Acropolis before going up to see it. I would then head to Plaka for a late lunch/early dinner, where you can sit outside and have a wonderful view of the Acropolis hilltop."

Read more of Bree's advice in her expat interview about living in Athens.

Further reading

►For more on leisure in the city, see Lifestyle in Athens

Photo credits: Acropolis of Athens with Parthenon and Erechtheion from Filopappou Hill by Constantinos Kollias from Unsplash.

Are you an expat living in Athens?

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