8 things to do outdoors in Athens to soak up the sun

8 things to do outdoors in Athens to soak up the sun

From wandering the ancient Acropolis to the National Garden, find the top sunny day activities in Athens in this guide.

Walk in the footsteps of Greek philosophers, explore centuries-old ancient temples, or uncover the legends of gods and goddesses in Athens, the oldest and largest city in Greece. From 360-degree views of the Parthenon at Mount Lycabettus to traditional Greek musical performances at the open-air Dora Stratou Theatre, you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy on a sunny day in Athens. With so many ways to immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Greece, this guide rounds up eight of the best things to do outdoors in Athens you don’t want to miss.

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Photo: Anastasia Siomou

Marvel at the iconic Acropolis, where ancient ruins and breathtaking views tell the story of Athens’ glorious past.

1. Immerse yourself in ancient history at the Acropolis

A trip to Athens isn’t complete without making a stop at the Acropolis, an ancient citadel containing the remains of the Parthenon, a dominating temple formerly dedicated to the goddess Athena, and other culturally significant buildings. Since the ruins are open-air and exposed to the elements, exploring the Acropolis is one of the best things to do in Athens when it’s sunny.

Insider tip

To avoid long waits at the ticket booth, you’ll want to purchase a skip-the-line entry ticket for the Acropolis in advance. Your ticket will have a time slot for entering the attraction, but you can stay at the site as long as you’d like. 

Address and opening hours

Acropolis, Athens 105 58. Open 8:00 AM-8:00 PM every day.

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Experience the beauty of Mount Lycabettus, where breathtaking views reward your outdoor exploration.

2. Get a bird’s-eye view from Mount Lycabettus

Experience the best view in downtown Athens at the summit of Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in the city’s center. Ancient Greek legends credit Athena for the creation of the majestic mountain, where thousands of travelers climb or ride the Lycabettus Hill cable car to reach the top each year. At the summit, you can enjoy the view with a rooftop dinner at Orizontes Restaurant or visit the white-washed church of Agios Georgios.

Best time to go

Visit Mount Lycabettus on Good Friday to see the path up to the church of Agios Georgios lit up by candlelight in observance of Greek Orthodox Easter.

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Stroll through the charming streets of Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood filled with colorful homes and quaint cafes.

3. Wander through the historic streets of Plaka

Situated beneath the slopes of the Acropolis, explore one of Athens’ oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods in Plaka. Book a walking tour of Plaka to guide you through the maze of streets or take your time perusing the souvenir shops, Greek cafes, and jewelry stores at your own pace. On a sunny day in Athens, you can enjoy the city’s charming atmosphere while having lunch at one of the many restaurants offering outdoor dining. 

Highlight

Finish the evening at one of Plaka’s popular rooftop bars for an unbelievable view of the Acropolis illuminated at night.  

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Photo: Erud

Enjoy an evening of authentic Greek music and dance at the Dora Stratou Theatre, a cultural gem in Athens.

4. Catch an outdoor show at the open-air Dora Stratou Theatre

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a traditional Greek dance performance under the Acropolis at the Dora Stratou Theatre. With a collection of over 2,000 traditional costume pieces, the theater is committed to preserving the historical authenticity of its traditional Greek dance performances. This 860-seat open-air theater offers one of the most culturally enriching things to do outside in Athens.

Insider tip

Tickets are purchased at the door, so you don’t need a reservation for shows at the Dora Stratou Theatre.

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Photo: Omri Yamin

Take a dip in the warm, healing waters of Lake Vouliagmeni, a unique outdoor activity near Athens.

5. Take a relaxing swim in Lake Vouliagmeni

Let your cares float away in the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters of Lake Vouliagmeni, a 2,000-year-old thermal spring nestled on the outskirts of Athens. Said to have natural healing properties, the mineral spa is one of the best outdoor activities in Athens for travelers seeking respite from long days of sightseeing. With temperatures ranging from 69 F (21 C) to 84 F (29 C) from January through December, you can enjoy Lake Vouliagmeni any time of year.

Highlight

Lake Vouliagmeni offers plenty of amenities to enjoy during a day at the lake, such as a luxurious wellness spa and restaurant.

Address and opening hours

Vouliagmeni 166 71. Open 8:00 AM-8:00 PM every day.

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Photo: HildaWeges

Escape the city bustle in the National Gardens, a lush oasis perfect for a relaxing stroll in Athens.

6. Explore Athens’ native flora and fauna at the National Gardens

The National Gardens of Athens are rated among the best sunny day activities in Athens for kids, letting families take a break from the city, enjoy a picnic, or just release some energy. Explore a collection of ancient ruins scattered throughout the garden, visit the children’s library, or watch playful ducks at one of six lakes throughout the gardens. 

Highlight

The National Gardens are home to over 500 plant species, but perhaps the most notable variety is the iconic palm trees planted along the garden entrance at Vasilissis Amalias Avenue.

Address and opening hours

Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 1, Athens 105 57. Open 6:00 AM till sunset every day.

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Uncover the secrets of the Ancient Agora, a site rich in history and archaeological treasures.

7. Discover the birthplace of democracy in Ancient Agora

Once the bustling commercial, political, and legal center of Greece’s capital city, the Ancient Agora of Athens will transport you to the lively market scene that existed centuries ago. Walk freely around the 30-acre archeological site or take a guided tour to learn about how ​​the democratic system came to be in Athens. The Ancient Agora of Athens is also home to the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the most well-preserved temples in the city.

Insider tip

Purchase your tickets to see this attraction in advance, or visit the Ancient Agora of Athens on a free admission day: March 6, April 18, May 18, the last weekend of September, October 28, and all Sundays between November 1 to March 31.

Address and opening hours

Athens 105 55. Open 8:00 AM-8:00 PM every day.

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Photo: Leonhard Niederwimmer

Discover the best view of Athens and the Parthenon from Philopappos Hill, a serene spot for sunny day adventures.

8. Admire panoramic views of the Parthenon at Philopappos Hill

Take a leisurely walk up Philopappos Hill and discover a treasure trove of ancient ruins and historic monuments along the way. From the sanctuary of prophet Musaeus and the Prison of Socrates to the breathtaking 360-degree views of the Acropolis, you won’t regret walking up to the summit of Philopappos Hill to admire one of Athens’ best city vistas. 

Highlight

As one of the most popular landmarks in Athens, Philopappos Hill is a spectacular spot to watch the sunset above the city.

FAQs 

1. What are the driest months in Athens?

The driest months in Athens are during the spring and fall, between April and October. The month of July has the fewest wet days in Athens.

2. What are the best free things to do outside in Athens?

Explore the National Garden, hike Philopappos Hill, or wander the picturesque streets of Plaka for the best free sunny day activities in Athens. 

3. What are some family-friendly outdoor activities in Athens?

There are many fun things to do outside in Athens for families, such as exploring the Acropolis, strolling through the National Garden, or watching an outdoor show at Dora Stratou Theatre.

4. Are there good walking and cycling trails in Athens?

Athens is pedestrian-friendly with plenty of walking and cycling trails, especially in the historic city center.

5. What are the best sunny day activities in Athens for couples?

Athens offers a plethora of romantic activities for couples to enjoy outdoors. A few options are wine-tasting in Plaka, watching the sunset on Phillopappos Hill, and enjoying a romantic dinner at the Orizontes Restaurant atop Mount Lycabettus.

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