Top 10 Must-See Historic Sites in Athens (2025 Guide)
Few cities layer history and modern life like Athens. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, these landmarks tell the story of Western civilization in marble and myth.
1. The Acropolis & Parthenon
The heart of ancient Greece. Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch morning light on the Parthenon’s columns.
📍 Official Acropolis Info
2. Ancient Agora
Walk where Socrates and Plato once taught. Don’t miss the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos.
📍 Ancient Agora Info
3. Temple of Olympian Zeus
Once the largest temple in Greece — and still awe-inspiring.
📍 Wikipedia – Temple of Olympian Zeus
4. Panathenaic Stadium
Built entirely of marble and used for the first modern Olympics in 1896.
📍 Official Stadium Site
5. Roman Agora
An elegant glimpse of Athens under Roman rule.
6. Hadrian’s Library
History meets serenity in this tucked-away ruin near Monastiraki.
7. National Archaeological Museum
A must for ancient sculpture and artifacts.
📍 Museum Info
8. Mount Lycabettus
Hike or take the funicular for panoramic city views.
9. Plaka’s Neoclassical Streets
A living museum filled with cafés, flowers, and friendly locals.
10. Kerameikos Cemetery
A quiet archaeological site that shows another side of Athens’ ancient past.
Travel Tip:
Grab the “combined ticket” for major sites to save time and money.
Stay Tip: Base yourself in Koukaki or Plaka for easy access to all of these landmarks.
For where to stay: see “The Best Neighbourhoods in Athens & Where to Stay”
For food & cafés: see “Eat Like a Local: Athens Food & Café Guide”
For day trips: see “Day Trips from Athens”
For nightlife: see “Athens After Dark – Rooftops, Bars & Nightlife”
For boutique stays: see “Boutique Short-Stay Rentals in Athens”
