Top 6 things to do in Athens, Greece

Top 6 things to do in Athens, Greece

Athens was the North Star of Ancient Greece – a magical destination where art, sports, science and philosophy flourished. Time has only given this city more star power. Relics that have stood for millennia rub shoulders with modern bars and eateries, ready to tantalize every sense.

Celestyal helps you to see the real Athens. Get to know the city with an expert local guide, ready to show you the capital’s hidden gems and share little-known facts about Athens’ brightest stars.

Here are just six of the best things to do in Athens, Greece.

1. Wonder at the Acropolis

Dominating the Athenian skyline, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the city’s glorious past. The iconic Parthenon has dazzled visitors for more than 2,500 years – the crowning glory of the capital. Explore paths that were once bustling with ancient Athenian life and discover incredibly well-preserved structures like the Erechtheion, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

The nearby Acropolis Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed from the Acropolis and its slopes. Step back in time to Ancient Greece, and listen to the secrets of past civilizations as history and mythology come to life.

2. Immerse yourself in Plaka

Plaka, the oldest residential neighborhood in Athens, is a labyrinth of narrow streets. Stunning neoclassical architecture, quaint shops and traditional kafenios line every cobbled path. During summer, the pink and red hues of bougainvillea climb between buildings and splash heavenly colors across the scenic streets. As you wander through the streets, you’ll feel the magnetic pull from the Tower of the Winds – a Pentelic clocktower dating back as far as the first century AD.

3. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

See the stars of ancient Greece through a contemporary lens at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. It’s home to some of the most important collections of ancient Greek art, including the Antikythera Mechanism, the Mask of Agamemnon and the Statue of Zeus. Listen as an expert guide unravels the story of each piece and shares the wonder of Greek civilization through the ages.

4. Delight the senses in Monastiraki and Psirri

Monastiraki’s bustling flea market and vibrant square pulse with activity around the clock. Browse the stalls full of unique treasures and barter for a keepsake, or savor a traditional Greek coffee in the cool shadow of the Acropolis. Neighboring Psirri is known for its street art and lively nightlife. Drink in the atmosphere, soak up the conversations and prepare to experience Athens like a local for the night.

6. Catch a show at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, known as the ‘Herodeon’, lies at the foot of the Acropolis. This cosmic venue was built in around 160AD and reopened its doors in 1955. It has welcomed some of the world’s brightest stars, from Pavarotti to Frank Sinatra to Sting. s

When the evening draws in and the sky begins to twinkle above, the Odeon is the perfect place to finish a day in Athens. From May to October every year, the venue hosts a packed calendar of opera, ancient theatre and music performances from local and international performers. Not to be missed!

Explore Athens like a local

Athens is a city that captivates the adventurer and leaves every visitor dazzled. With Celestyal, you’ll get closer to the heart of this starry destination – and so many more across Greece and the Mediterranean. Immerse yourself in true Greek culture ashore and aboard with our award-winning Greek hospitality. Designed with your comfort and happiness as our North Star, a Celestyal cruise leaves you with memories to last a lifetime.

Book your cruise today!