15 must-visit landmarks and historical sites in Athens

Today, Ancient Greece is still alive and breathing in Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities and a mecca of historic sites. The city's ancient Greek allure is embodied in Athens landmarks like the Agora of Athens and the Thermopylae Hot Springs. Seeing ruins and remnants of the city’s rich past intertwined with its modern life is truly awe-inspiring.

From the marbled steps of the Acropolis to the quiet alleys of Anafiotika, Athens’ monuments offer an experience that goes beyond sightseeing. This guide invites you to explore the city’s most famous landmarks, each one offering a glimpse into the history, culture, and distinct atmosphere of Athens.

Historic and architectural landmarks in Athens

1. The Acropolis

Arguably one of the most historic landmarks in Athens, the Acropolis, is the epitome of the ancient world and classical architecture. Worn marble steps, polished by centuries of footsteps, lead you through this UNESCO World Heritage Site that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Don't miss the Temple of Athena and the Propylaea.

Best time to go:

For a quieter visit, arrive early in the morning. As a bonus, you'll be able to see the Parthenon bathed in soft, golden light.

Address and opening hours:

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

2. The Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens was once the heart of Athens, where political, commercial, and social life bustled. The Agora’s open spaces invite you to imagine the lively market scenes that once filled this area. As you pass by the temple and building ruins, you can almost hear the murmur of voices from centuries ago.

Highlight:

The Agora is home to the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Athens.

Address and opening hours:

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

3. The Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the greatest temple in Greece, dedicated to the god Zeus. Even in its partially ruined state, the temple's surviving columns are a powerful reminder of the grandeur of Athens architeture and the scale of Ancient Greece.

Best time to go:

Arrive just before sunset when a golden hour glow and dramatic shadows enhance the temple’s dramatic appearance.

Address and opening hours:

Athens 105 57, Greece. Open daily 8:00 AM-3:00 PM.

4. The Theatre of Dionysus

See where the world's first plays were performed under the open sky at the Theatre of Dionysus, a historical landmark that’s celebrated as the birthplace of drama. Nestled into the southern slope of the Acropolis, stone seats and a sprawling stage hold intriguing stories of long-gone crowds and ancient performances.

Highlight:

Feel like Greek royalty by sitting on one of the theater's 67 marble thrones reserved for VIPs, with the most elaborate being the priest of Dionysus’ throne.

Address and opening hours:

Mitseon 25, Athina 117 42, Greece. Open 8:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

5. The Byzantine and Christian Museum

The Byzantine and Christian Museum is a treasure trove of history that transports you to the medieval world of Byzantium. It’s one of the best museums in Athens and is filled with over 25,000 artifacts, including depictions of religious icons, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles, illuminating the Byzantine Empire’s religious and secular life.

Highlight:

Find exhibitions, fountains, and seating under fruit trees in the gardens of the Byzantine Museum.

Address and opening hours:

Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 22, Athina 106 75, Greece. Open 9:00 AM-4:00 PM every day except Tuesdays.

6. Kerameikos Cemetery

The Kerameikos Cemetery, one of the most important ancient sites in Athens, gives you a sense of how the ancient Athenians lived and honored their dead. Once a major burial ground and pottery district, this historical site is now filled with archaeological remains, from ancient tombstones to family burial plots. The cemetery also features the Dipylon Gate and the Sacred Way, which was the main road used for the Eleusinian Mysteries.

Highlight:

Your entry ticket to the cemetery includes entry to the Kerameikos Museum, which features artifacts, pottery, and other interesting finds.

Address and opening hours:

Ermou 148, Athina 105 53, Greece. Open 8:00 AM-3:00 PM every day during winter; 8:00 AM-7:00 PM every day during summer; 8:00 AM-7:30 PM every day from September 1-15; 8:00 AM-7:00 PM every day from September 16-30; 8:00 AM-6:30 PM every day from October 1-15; and 8:00 AM-6:00 PM every day from October 16-30.

7. The Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art is a portal to the ancient cultures of the Aegean and Cyprus. The museum’s impressive collections of Cycladic, Ancient Greek, and Cypriot art beautifully depict the artistic flair and ingenuity of these civilizations. Marble figurines, intricate pottery, and artifacts that show how people lived thousands of years ago.

Highlight:

Contemporary art inspired by ancient themes gives visitors a unique perspective of the relationship between past and present.

Address and opening hours:

Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece. Open Monday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; Wednesday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; and Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM.

8. The Goulandris Museum of Contemporary Art

The Goulandris Museum, one of the best art museums in Athens, is a must-visit for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. It houses a diverse collection of 20th-century art, including works by international masters such as Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky, as well as prominent Greek artists. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops for all ages.

Insider tip:

Make sure to check out the museum shop, the library, and the café during your visit.

Address and opening hours:

Levidou 13, Kifisia 145 62, Greece. Open Monday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM; Wednesday-Thursday, 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM; and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

9. The Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is one of Athens' hidden gems. Its rich collections span thousands of years and include Greek art from prehistoric to modern times, as well as Islamic and Chinese art. The museum was founded by Antonis Benakis in memory of his father, Emmanuel Benakis, and is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building.

Highlight:

The Benaki Museum is a short walk to other Athens landmarks, including the Museums of Cycladic Art, the Byzantine and Christian Museum, and the National Gallery, so you can easily visit multiple historical sites in one day.

Address and opening hours:

Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM-12:00 AM; and Sunday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Scenic and natural landmarks in Athens

10. The National Garden

In the middle of Athens, you’ll find a lush oasis called the National Garden. This peaceful park, home to various trees, plants, and animals, provides a refreshing break from the city’s urban environment, whether you’re looking for a picnic spot or a place to jog. Established in the mid-19th century by Queen Amalia, the garden also features ancient ruins and a botanical museum.

Insider tip:

Visit the garden’s quiet café for a relaxing bite and drink while surrounded by greenery.

Address and opening hours:

Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 1, Athina 105 57, Greece. Open 6:00 AM-7:45 PM every day.

11. Philopappos Hill

For a mix of history, nature, and views, climb Philopappos Hill. Make your way up paths lined with pine trees and wildflowers to find 360-degree views of the Acropolis, the city, and even the sea in the distance. The Philopappos Monument, a mausoleum dedicated to a prominent Roman consul, also awaits at the top.

Best time to go:

Visit at sunset for the most striking views and romantic photos.

Address and opening hours:

Athens 117 41, Greece. Open 24/7.

12. Mount Lycabettus

The summit of Mount Lycabettus, the city’s highest point, has what many consider the best views in downtown Athens. Tied to legends of Greek gods and goddesses, the hill also has a chapel, theater, and restaurant. Taking the funicular up the mountain remains one of the coolest things to do with kids in Athens.

Best time to go:

On Good Friday, you can watch a candle-lit ceremony lighting a path down the hill in celebration of Greek Orthodox Easter.

Address and opening hours:

Athens 114 71, Greece. Open 24/7.

13. Lake Vouliagmeni

Lake Vouliagmeni, located just outside Athens, is a natural wonder with its therapeutic thermal waters. The lake, which is nestled between a rugged cliff and the Aegean Sea, is rich in minerals and maintains a year-round temperature of 22-29°C (71-84°F), making it a perfect spot for a relaxing dip no matter the season.

Insider tip:

Make it a day trip and explore the city of Vouliagmeni, where you'll find sights like Vouliagmeni Beach and Panagia Faneromeni Church.

Address and opening hours:

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

14. Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion, located on the southernmost tip of Attica, is renowned for the Temple of Poseidon, which sits dramatically atop a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. This famous landmark's natural beauty is as remarkable as its historical significance, with breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

Best time to go:

Visit just before sunset for a truly magical scene as the sun dips into the Aegean Sea, casting a golden glow on the temple.

Address and opening hours:

Lavreotiki 195 00, Greece. Open 9:30 AM-sunset every day.

15. Thermopylae Hot Springs

Known for the famous battle between Greeks and Persians in 480 B.C., Thermopylae Hot Springs provides a unique opportunity to bathe in toasty 40°C (104°F), therapeutic waters in a setting of historical importance. The natural springs are rich in minerals and have been used for their healing properties since antiquity.

Insider tip:

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Thermopylae Battlefield and the Leonidas Monument to fully appreciate the historical significance of the area.

Address and opening hours:

Unnamed Road, 350 09, Greece. Open 24/7.

FAQs

What is the oldest historic landmark in Athens?

The Acropolis, particularly the Parthenon, is one of the oldest and most important historical landmarks in Athens. Built in the 5th century B.C., these ancient structures are emblematic of Athens’ rich historical and architectural legacy.

What are some free landmarks to visit in Athens?

Free Athens landmarks include the National Garden, Philopappos Hill, Thermopylae Hot Springs, and many more. Free museums include the Hellenic Children’s Museum and the G. Gounaropoulos Museum, while many paid museums have free days or reduced ticket prices for certain groups. The Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square is a free event to attend.

How can I get the best views of scenic landmarks in Athens?

For the best views of Athens’ landmarks, head to Mount Lycabettus, the city’s highest point. Here, you can enjoy vistas stretching to the Aegean Sea. Other great spots for views include Philopappos Hill, Areopagus Hill, and the National Observatory of Athens. Rooftop bars and restaurants in central Athens also provide impressive perspectives of the cityscape, particularly at night when the landmarks are illuminated.

What is the best way to get around Athens to visit its landmarks?

The best way to get around Athens is by using a combination of public transportation and walking. The city’s metro system is efficient and connects you to most major sites, while buses and trams can take you to areas not covered by the metro. Walking is highly recommended for exploring neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, where you can discover hidden gems and enjoy the vibrant street life. Renting a car is another option if you are traveling with young children and flexibility is important.

When is the best time of year to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the visitor crowds are smaller. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. Summer can be quite hot and crowded, while winter is cooler and quieter, offering a different, more relaxed experience of the city.