43 Off the Beaten Path Things to do in Athens in 2024. Written by a Local

Off the beaten path things to do in Athens: An oxymoron? Despite the fact that the Greek capital is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, there is plenty to do here that escapes the eyes of most tourists. 

Athens, Greece

Filoppapou Hill, Athens
Filoppapou Hill, Athens

Most people that visit Athens simply hop around the city’s major attractions, crossing things off their sightseeing checklist. The Acropolis? Check! The Roman Agora? Check! The Temple of Olympian Zeus? Check! 

While the Greek capital’s historical and archaeological sites are every bit as incredible as the travel guides would have you believe, Athens has so much more to offer. The Greeks keep most of the city to themselves, and most international travellers leave after barely scratching the surface.

Off the Beaten Path Things to do in Athens 

"Secret" Anafiotika
“Secret” Anafiotika

I have lived in Athens for the past three years. During that time, I have explored virtually every nook and cranny in this gritty city. 

This guide summarises all of the best off the beaten path things to do in Athens that you may want to consider incorporating into your Athens travel itinerary.

Whether you are interested in culture and the arts, or sandy white beaches and relaxing spas, rest assured, this guide contains a little something for everyone. Feel free to use the Table of Contents to skip to the most relevant sections.

Sip Coffee at Quirky Spots in Koukaki and Pagrati

Off the beaten path things to do in Athens: Koukaki
Off the beaten path things to do in Athens: Koukaki

Coffee culture is huge in Athens. You could even say that coffee drinking is the national sport of Greece!

Consequently, there are dozens of cute eclectic coffee stores scattered throughout the city. The only caveat?

Most of these places are not in the centre. Instead, they are tucked away down unsuspecting alleyways, or in the midst of leafy residential areas.

Uncovering two of Athens’ quierkiest districts

Koukaki and Pagrati are two Athenian neighbourhoods that are well worth your time in visiting. Both boast an array of themed coffee stores and authentic local bars and tavernas.

They are perfect for people watching and getting off the beaten path in Athens. Order yourself a traditional Greek coffee (Ellinikos Kafes) served short, strong, and prepared in a copper biriki. Alternatively, sample the popular Greek “freddo” (iced) coffee.

Sing and Dance at a Bouzoukia

Things to do in Athens: Watch the sunset from Lycabettus
Things to do in Athens: Watch the sunset from Lycabettus

If there were to be a quintessential Greek experience that everyone ought to have while travelling here, visiting a bouzoukia would be it. Bouzoukias are essentially Greek music halls.

These establishments have been given their names based on the Greek instrument that is played during musical performances (the bouzouki). Local singers perform traditional Greek music and ballads as the locals sing, dance, and drink..

Bouzoukia Options in Athens

If you are interested in visiting a bouzoukia while in Athens then there are two options. You can either opt to visit a smaller, more intimate bouzoukia where local singers perform as people are eating. (These are popular in Plaka and Anafiotika Plaka).

Alternatively, you can go one step further and visit one of the larger bouzoukia clubs. The most popular among locals are Posidonio and Gazi Live. Bouzoukia places are among the best places to visit in Athens if you want to get a feel of Greek culture.

Swim at a Secluded Cove

Off the beaten path things to do in Athens: KAPE beach
Off the beaten path things to do in Athens: KAPE beach

If you didn’t know where to look for KAPE beach, you would probably drive right past it. That is the precise reason why the beach is seldom crowded and is never filled with tourists – so few people know about it.

KAPE Beach

KAPE beach is accessible from a dirt path that leads off from the main road between Athens and Sounio. Nestled in a secluded cove, the beach is a nice alternative to the crowded beaches of Glyfada and the Athenian Riviera. KAPE is one of the best places to visit in Athens if you want to spend a lazy day in the sun.

Kape beach is one of many stunning Athens beaches that can be reached within just an hour or two’s drive from central Athens. The beaches encapsulating the Greek city offer something for everyone – whether you prefer catered exclusive beach clubs, or more rugged, isolated wonders.

Take a Walking Tour of Athens’ Kypseli Neighbourhood

Kypseli is one of Athens’ oldest neighbourhoods. It is set right in the heart of the city centre. However, most tourists have never even heard of it.

Cheap rent in the area made Kypseli a popular choice for foreign people moving to Greece. Today, it is one of the most eclectic and multicultural Athenian districts.

Expect to see a mishmash of architectural styles as you walk around. In Kypseli, neoclassical mansions sit beside traditional Bauhaus constructions.

International dining options aplenty in Kypseli

The area’s wonderful international community is reflected in the stores and restaurants that are located here. You will be met with a plethora of Middle Eastern and African dining options as you meander the narrow streets.

If you want to try something new, Asia Minor is a beloved local Kurdish restaurant. Meanwhile, Lalibela provides a chance to experience Ethiopian cuisine, music, and traditional dance.

Admire the Island Architecture at Anafiotika

Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Athens
Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Athens: Can’t Make it to Santorini? No Problem!

Anafiotika is a quaint area within Athens’ Plaka neighbourhood. Its narrow winding passageways and white-washed, blue-roofed architecture look out of place among the rest of the city.

Strolling through Anafiotika transports you to Santorini and the picturesque pathways of Oia. This small neighbourhood was constructed and designed by islanders who moved to mainland Greece.

Cycladic style in the heart of Athens

They wanted the area to possess an appearance that reminded them of home. If you will not have the opportunity to explore the Cyclades while travelling in Greece, Anafiotika could well be the next best thing.

Anafiotika is also one of the best places to visit in Athens to enjoy views of the city. From up here, you can watch a beautiful sunset over the Acropolis.

Take a Greek Cooking Class

One of the best ways to really get to the heart of a country’s culture is through its food. In Athens, there is truly no better way to do that than to take a Greek cooking class.

Classes like this one give you the opportunity to learn how to replicate well-known traditional dishes like moussaka and lamb kleftiko. You will also purchase your ingredients at a local market for a real Greek experience.

Have Brunch in Gazi

Gazi, Athens
Gazi, Athens

Gazi is quickly emerging as one of Athens’ trendiest neighbourhoods. Today, Gazi is filled with lively nightlife spots, bouzouki places, and hip coffee stores.

It wasn’t always this way though. Gazi was originally a predominantly industrial area. 

Gazi translates to “gas” in Greek. This is a fitting name as Gazi was once home to the Athens gas power plant.

After the facility was closed, Gazi started to become one of the artsiest neighbourhoods in town. The sarcophagus of the old power plant still stands and has been converted into a cultural space. Gazi is a popular brunch/lunch spot for young Athenians.

Take an Athens Food Tour

Touring Athens' Markets
Touring Athens’ Markets

One of the many highlights of visiting Greece is the country’s rich and varied cuisine. Opting to take a local food tour is a great way to sample a variety of dishes. Better yet, you will be sampling them at the very best places in town away from the tourist traps.

This food and wine tour of Athens leads you through the city’s most historic neighbourhoods. It enables you to sample a variety of classic local dishes, wines, and small plates.

A food tour is one of the best things to do in Athens early on in your trip. Your guide can give you suggestions of lots of great places to eat for the remainder of your time in the city. Furthermore, this will help you to get your bearings in the Greek capital.

Enjoy Exquisite Fine Dining at Athens’ Michelin Restaurants 

If fine and indulgent dining is your thing, Athens is certainly the perfect city for gourmands. There are a total of five Michelin starred restaurants in Athens. Not to mention, countless food options for those with a more refined palette. 

Spondi is a popular Michelin restaurant set in Pagrati that offers Mediterranean and French fusion cuisine. The recipes often seem to boast obscure pairings, yet somehow they just work.

If you love seafood, head to Varoulko. Here, the latest catches of the day are served fresh in a beautiful seafront setting.

Treat Yourself to a Gourmet 24 Course Meal 

Michelin restaurants aside, there are so many elegant eateries in Athens. You could dine at a different place every night for a month and you would never get around to trying them all!

Eleas Gi, Kifissia

Eleas Gi is a fantastic upscale restaurant in Kifissia that is housed in a magnificent old manor. The views over the city from the verandas here are second to none. 

You can stop by Eleas Gi for lunch or dinner. However, the main draw is the restaurant’s 14 and 24-course tasting menus.

The tasting menus are best enjoyed with wine pairings chosen by the expert in-house Sommeliers. This is a perfect introduction to Greek cuisine for international travellers. 

Hike Mount Lycabettus at Sunset

Things to do in Athens
Things to do in Athens: The Acropolis offers a great view over the city but so too does Lycabettus Hill.

Mount Lycabettus is the tallest point in Athens. It is situated 277 meters above sea level and surrounded by dense woodlands.

From up here, you can enjoy incredible views over the city and the Acropolis which lies just opposite. The hike to the peak is pleasant.

It is easily manageable even for those who consider themselves as not being at their peak of physical fitness. The route ascends via a steady circular path.

The Chapel of St. George

The Chapel of Saint George is the quaint little whitewashed church that awaits at the top of Lycabettus. Here, you will also find a giant Greek flagpole that blows in the wind.

You can climb to the top of the hill at any time of day. However, it is best to do so at sunrise or sunset. At this time, the city of Athens, the Acropolis, and the Panathenaic stadium are illuminated with twinkling lights.

The atmosphere is almost ethereal by nightfall. Orizontes Lycabettus is a fine-dining restaurant that sits adjacent to the Chapel of St. George. This is a perfect place to stop for dinner if you want to reward your walking efforts with indulgent cuisine.

Enjoy Cocktail Hour in Kolonaki

Jazz in Jazz, Kolonaki
Jazz in Jazz, Kolonaki

During your Athens itinerary, don’t restrict your evening tipples and entertainment to staying within the city centre. Athens is far more than just Monastiraki, Plaka, and Syntagma.

If you want to see a more off-the-beaten-path side to Athens night-life, head to the glamorous district of Kolonaki. Don’t be deterred by the fact that this is one of Athens’ most exclusive neighbourhoods. Often the price tags at the bars here are no different from in the city centre.

The Perfect Night Out in Athens

Start your evening off with a Negroni (or seven) at the quirky Jazz in Jazz. This is a tiny New Orleans-themed Jazz bar situated in an unsuspecting residential area on Dinokratous, Kolonaki. Minnie the Moocher is another favourite with its swing music and unique blends of cocktails.

Check Out the Punky Metaxourgeio Art Scene

Metaxourgeio is an Athens neighbourhood that does not have the best reputation. A few unsavoury types loiter around Karaiskakis Square at night. However, Metaxourgeio is fine during the day. 

The area is particularly interesting for art lovers. Several independent galleries operate here.

Independent Art Galleries of Metaxourgeio

Notably, you should look out for the Municipal Gallery of Athens, the Rebecca Camhi Gallery, and the Breeder Gallery. These art havens display a collection of works from renowned and emerging Greek and International Artists. 

The streets of Metaxourgeio are a work of art in themselves. The buildings and storefronts here are laden with graffiti, some of which are politically-motivated and thought-provoking. 

Hang Out in the Coffee Shops of Nea Smyrni 

Nea Smyrni is a lesser-known Athenian neighbourhood that is bursting with personality. The more time you spend in Athens, the more you will notice that each of the city’s various districts are like little towns in themselves.

The suburb of Nea Smyrni is home to a small but pleasant park which is popular among cyclists, and dog walkers. The suburb’s namesake “Nea Smyrni square” is particularly pleasant during the summer months.

Numerous coffee bars encircle the square. When the weather is good, their outdoor seating spills out into the square. This is a popular rendezvous point for locals.

Enjoy the Walking Routes in the Athenian Riviera

Off the beaten path things to do in Athens
Off the beaten path things to do in Athens

Athens is far from being just another concrete jungle. The sandy white beaches and cerulean waters of the Athenian Riviera can be reached in just thirty minutes from the city centre. The city’s coastal neighbourhoods boast exclusive beach clubs, charming tavernas, and numerous walking routes.

Popular Walking Routes

A popular walking route to follow is the route from Flisvos Marina in Paleo Faliro to Alimo. The route is popular with hikers and joggers.

There are two separate walking and cycling lanes that run alongside the sea. The route is parallel to Poseidonos Avenue. However, it is away from the noise and dangers of the busy road.

This route passes by neoclassical mansions, elegant residential areas, charming tavernas, and beaches before coming to its conclusion at the quaint church at Alimos. Those looking to continue the walk can venture on to Voula and Vouliagmeni.

Board the Flying Dolphin to Hydra and the Saronic Gulf

While it may be Greek islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Zakynthos that most international tourists flock to, there are several equally beautiful alternatives that await just one hour away from Athens. 

If you have a little extra time to spend in Athens during your Greece travel itinerary, consider hopping on board the flying dolphin to Hydra, Poros, Spetses, or one of the other islands in the Saronic Gulf.

Hydra is especially charming. The quaint island is comprised of small fishing villages, a historic port, and numerous hiking trails that twist and turn through beautiful countryside.

There are no vehicles on Hydra, and people get around on horseback. Taking a trip to Hydra feels like a journey back in time.

Hang Out at the Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre

The Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre is an awesome place to hang out, especially during the summer months. The impressive modern culture park boasts a library, an art exhibition hall, and several cafes that line a man-made stream.

The highlight of the SNCC though is the breathtaking views that can be enjoyed from the second floor. The building’s location means that you have a 360-degree view of the most notable places to visit in Athens. 

From the second floor of the building you can look across the ramshackle Athenian apartment buildings to The Acropolis, Mount Lycabettus, and Piraeus port. You can even see as far as the Saronic Gulf islands.

During the summer months, the SNCC hosts several free festivals and cultural events. Year-round, it is a popular place for Digital Nomads and students to work and study.

Sip Cocktails While Overlooking the Acropolis

View from Athens 360

Athens’ Galaxy Bar has been named as one of the best rooftop bars in Athens time and again. It sits perched atop the Hilton Hotel.

From up here, travellers have incredible views of the Acropolis by night. You can also see out to Mount Lycabettus and the Athenian neighborhoods of Syntagma, Kolonaki, and Pagrati.

The vibe is chic and classy. The Galaxy bar is a little pricy, but the experience is worth it.

Locals consider the Galaxy Bar as one of the best places to visit in Athens for elegant evening drinks. Alternative popular rooftop hangouts are Couleur Locale, or the centrally located Athens 360.

Search for Street Art in Exarchia

Exarchia, Athens
Exarchia, Athens

Exarchia is essentially the punky, “alternative” neighbourhood of Athens. On Valtetsiou street, virtually every spare square inch of wall space is filled with graffiti.

The street art here is some of the most intense in the city and tends to depict political scenes. The works of popular European artists such as Ino and Borondo can be found here. One of the best ways to experience Exarchia is on an Athens street art tour like this one.

Fall in Love with Exarchia’s Edgy Vibes

Off the beaten path places to visit in Athens: Exarchia
Off the beaten path places to visit in Athens: Exarchia

Among locals, Exarchia is considered as being a “troubled” neighbourhood. Exarchia has a history of riots, protests, and violence.

Police will not set food in Exarchia and on Friday and Saturday night. Instead, they stand around the edges of the neighbourhood making sure anarchist groups don’t venture into the city centre to cause problems. 

Based on that description I doubt I’ve sold Exarchia to you! For regular people, heading into Exarchia generally isn’t a problem. The interesting thing about the neighbourhood is that it is home to lots of alternative rock bars, live music places, and great places to eat.

Learn Traditional Greek Dancing

Traditional dances are still a big part of Greek culture. At weddings, festive celebrations, and basically any form of event, it is not unusual to see everyone up on the dance floor dancing together in a group.

Zorbas is the dance that most tourists think of. However, there are more than 10,000 different Greek dances!

Each island or part of Greece will have its own traditional dance. One great alternative activity to try out while in Athens is taking a traditional Greek dance class.

Classes like this one enable you to learn several different Greek dances and their history. You will then have the opportunity to enjoy a sumptuous Greek feast with your new friends, to the background of live music. Oppa!

Order a Charcuterie Board in Psiri

Places to Visit in Athens: Miran and Karamanlidika
Places to Visit in Athens: Miran and Karamanlidika

Greece is a foodie paradise. Besides the home-cooked taverna classics, and marinated meats and souvlakis, a big part of Greek cuisine is its excellent charcuterie products.

Various regions of Greece are famous for their cold cut meats, cheeses, condiments, and wines. In Athens’ Psiri district there are a couple of great places for ordering charcuterie boards which are popular among locals and travellers alike. 

Grab a table at Miran or Karamanlidika

In the evening, head to either Miran or Karamanlidika in Psiri. The former sells meats and other specialty products from the Kerkini region of Greece. Meanwhile, Karamanlidika focuses on produce from Drama in Thessaly.

At both spots, you can have a wonderful bespoke charcuterie board prepared for you with an accompaniment of locally sourced wines. Karamanlidika arguably has a better ambiance. This is the more taverna-style place of the two. 

Sip Cocktails with the Athenian Elite in Neo Psychiko

Kolonaki, the Athenian Riviera, and Kifissia are the neighbourhoods that spring to mind when you mention Athens’ most upscale areas. However, there are other elegant districts too, which are more understated. Two of those are Psychiko and Neo Psychiko. 

Psychiko is mostly residential. However, its adjoining region: Neo Psychiko boasts a selection of sophisticated bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.

You will not find tourists here, just a well-heeled Athenian crowd. Neo Psychiko makes a nice alternative place to experience Athens’ nightlife scene. Gaspar Food & Mood, El Jiron, and Finca Vigia are popular local hangouts.

Ascend the Highest Peak in the Attiki Region

Mount Parnitha is the tallest mountain in the Athens region. It towers above the surrounding landscape at 1,413m.

Those looking for a challenge will thoroughly enjoy the hike to the top. Indeed, the Mount Parnitha climb is one of the best hiking routes in Greece.

The trails lead through dense woodland and past numerous fortresses and ancient defensive sites. Parnitha can be easily reached by public transport. If you prefer to have a guide, you can consider joining a hiking tour like this one.

Tread the Kavouri Coastline

The coastal area that surrounds central Athens is breathtaking
The coastal area that surrounds central Athens is breathtaking

The Kavouri region is a glamorous, upscale area just south of Athens. Walking along the coastal road leads you along off-the-beaten-path beaches.

It takes you past sprawling mansions, glamorous eateries, and areas of undisturbed natural beauty. This is a pleasant leisurely stroll to tackle any time of year.

Relax by a Calming Azure Lake

Marathon Lake is a tranquil, relaxing spot that is reachable by public transport from Athens. The lake isn’t exactly a tourist spot. However, it is a nice place to visit if you want to get away from the hectic city centre for a while.

Numerous hiking trails twist and turn through the woodland area that surrounds the lake. They lead travellers past ancient caves, quaint churches, and beautiful forests. 

Find an Old, Forgotten Mosque

Tzistarakis Mosque, Monastiraki Square
Tzistarakis Mosque, Monastiraki Square

Tzistarakis Mosque was built in 1759 during the Ottoman rule of Greece. You could easily walk straight past it and not even know that it is there! The minaret was removed after the Greeks reclaimed their country from the Ottoman rule.

Over the centuries, the building has had several uses. It was used as a prison, as storage, as an assembly hall, etc. Now, the mosque is an art museum.

Sadly, Tzistarakis Mosque and the exhibits inside have remained closed to the public for the last few years. It is not quite the same when you are unable to access the building. However, it is still worth stopping by and taking a peek from the outside.

Dine Al Fresco Style in an Old Mansion

Psaras Fisherman’s Taverna in Psirii is one of the oldest restaurants in Athens. Here, visitors can enjoy all of the traditional homemade Greek classics.

The menu boasts an ever-changing selection of seafood dishes that are prepared using the freshest catches. Those that do not eat fish need not despair.

Pastitsio, moussaka, dolmas, and other famous dishes can be found on the menu here too. Psaras is set inside a cosy old stone mansion where you can dine to the background of bouzouki music.

Wander the Tree-Lined Boulevards of Kifissia

Places to Visit in Athens: Artisanal, Kifissia
Places to Visit in Athens: Artisanal, Kifissia

Kifissia is one of the best places to visit in Athens if you have a little more time to spare. This exclusive northern neighbourhood escapes the attention of most visitors to Athens. 

At Kifissia station, elegant horse-drawn carriages stand waiting to take visitors on tours of the neighbourhood. The beautiful tree-lined streets of Kifissia are filled with sprawling neoclassical mansions. Many of these have been converted into quirky restaurants, bars, and art galleries. 

Kifissia Highlights

Stop for a coffee at chic Artisanal before admiring the work of local artists at Kifissia’s independent galleries and browsing the boutique stores. Don’t miss the opportunity to grab a snack at Varsos. This is a centuries-old patisserie that has been beloved by Kifissia locals for generations. 

Kifissia is 14 km out of the city centre but is easily accessible via the green line metro. If you want to base yourself in a quiet place during your Athens trip, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Kifissia is a nice place to consider.  

Grab a Kolouri from a Monastiraki Street Vendor

Koulouri is a popular mid-morning snack
Koulouri is a popular mid-morning snack

Street food is as much a part of Greek food culture as the country’s marinated meats, hot pot dishes, and meze plates. As you explore Athens city centre, be sure to try a breakfast koulouri.

Koulouris are circular sesame-seeded bread snacks that are often enjoyed at breakfast time in the accompaniment of a good, strong coffee. This is essentially the Greek version of the American pretzel.

You will find koulouris sold at a lot of coffee shops and bakeries. One place to look out for is the “Mon Kolor” chain.You will also find koulouri street food carts in Monastiraki, Kolonaki, and Syntagma.

Eat at the City’s Oldest Restaurant

If you want to treat yourself, head to Vassilenas. This is an exquisite fine dining restaurant that is also the oldest restaurant in Athens.

Passed down through the generations of a local family, Vassilenas prides itself on its selection of local wines and freshly sourced ingredients. The restaurant has moved premises in recent years.

However, in doing so, it certainly hasn’t lost its popularity or culinary expertise. In the early days of Vassilenas, the likes of Frank Sinatra and Sophia Loren would dine at the establishment.

Unlock the Mystical Powers of Lake Vouliagmeni

Arguably the most notable highlight of Vouliagmeni is the lake which is rumored to have healing properties. Lake Vouliagmeni is classified as being a wonder of nature and a healing natural spring.

There is a network of mysterious caves that remain beneath the lake and have never been fully explored. One of the cave tunnels is rumored to be 800m long and the largest in the world!

Experience Vouliagmeni Lake by Night

One alternative to visiting Vouliagmeni by day, is to stop by for cocktails after the sunsets. At this time, the atmosphere is almost ethereal as the lake and the mountains that surround it are illuminated with hundreds of twinkling fairy lights.

The bar exudes an air of old fashioned glamour. The patrons are a well-heeled crowd, and old Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra classics play out over the speakers.

Indulge Your Senses at a Traditional Hammam

Al Hammam, Athens
Al Hammam, Athens

Going to a hammam was once a very important part of life in Greece – particularly during the days of the Ottoman Empire. A hammam is a traditional bathhouse, somewhat similar to a sauna.

The “bathhouse of the winds” is one of Athens’ old original bathhouses. Its crumbling remnants can be seen in old Plaka

If you would like to incorporate a little R&R into your Athens trip, try out a traditional hammam experience like this one. At the beautiful Polis hammam,  you can enjoy the steam room, an exfoliating body scrub, and a luxurious massage. When your treatment is done, relax in a beautiful setting with a pot of tea and some sweet Turkish delight.

Visit a Laeki in a Greek Neighbourhood

Most neighbourhoods in Athens host a laiki agora (a local farmer’s market) on fixed nights each week. During this time, the streets are closed off to allow room for the traders to set up stalls selling their wares.

You can pick up virtually everything at the weekly laiki. Everything from fresh locally grown fruits, homemade jams, marmalades, pies and meats, and cheeses can be found here. You can get a whole kilo of oranges in Athens for as little as 20 cents per bag!

Some of these local markets also double as flea markets selling second-hand clothing and household items. Laskou in Pagrati (hosted on Tuesdays), Xenokratous in Kolonaki (hosted on Fridays), or Plakendias in Ambelokipi (also Fridays) are all interesting markets. Additionally, they are all relatively close to the city centre.

Join the Greek Jet-Set in Glyfada

Glyfada & the Hellenic Hamptons
Glyfada & the Hellenic Hamptons

Glyfada is one of the most glamorous regions in the Athens Riviera. It is an area often referred to as the “Hellenic Hamptons”.

Glyfada Beaches

Enjoy a pleasant stroll, jog, or cycle along the waterfront promenade that extends from Glyfada beach to Asteras beach. Glyfada beach is free to visit and is a popular spot for surfers – especially during the Autumn months.

While in Glyfada, be sure to drop by Balux Café – The House Project. This is a chic beachside bar where you can enjoy sipping exotic cocktails by the sea or eating contemporary fusion cuisine within the restaurant.

Glyfada Highlights

Exploring Glyfada town centre itself is a pleasant way to while away an afternoon and one of the most relaxed things to do in Athens. Glyfada is somewhat comparable to Athens Kolonaki district in its elegance.

Glyfada’s palm tree-lined promenades showcase the white-washed ornate facades of storefronts belonging to the most glamorous international designer and local boutique stores. Dabbling in the local fashion and investing in some handmade Greek jewelry or leather sandals are undoubtedly among the best unique Greek souvenirs.

Find Hidden Woodland Monasteries

The Kaisariani Monastery is one of the best off-the-beaten-path things to do in Athens. The structure Dates back to the 11th century. This is a beautiful Greek Orthodox Monastery that was built as a shrine to the Virgin Mary.

Nestled in the middle of a scenic pine forest, the monastery is filled with beautiful, brightly colored frescoes. The large complex contains ancient accommodation for monks, bathhouses, and libraries.

Getting to the monastery is one of the most pleasant, and easiest hikes in Athens. Those looking for a physical challenge can also continue onwards to the peak of Mount Hymettus.

Visit the Home of Forgotten Greek Royals

The Tatoi Royal Former Palace was once the home of the Greek Royal Family. It sits within the reaches of the Parnitha National Park. Dating back to the 18th century, the palace and its outbuildings are very well preserved.

This lesser-known site doubles as a museum that provides a fascinating insight into more recent Greek history. The palace sits in the midst of a 10,000-acre estate. The beautiful gardens, meadows, and woodlands make the perfect spot for a picnic.

Obtain the Best Photos of the Acropolis

Filopappou Hill is famous for the Roman memorial that stands at the top, dating back to 115AD. From up here, you also have incredible views across to the Acropolis. The views are especially beautiful at sunset as the Acropolis is illuminated by delicate, twinkling lights.

The ancient monuments scattered around Filopappou Hill are often missed from most Athens itineraries but are well worth visiting – particularly the Socrates prison and the quaint 16th century chapel of Agios Dimitrios Loumbardiaris

Attend an All-Night Beach Party

There are numerous beachside bars, restaurants, and nightclubs situated along the seafront in coastal Athens. During the summer months, these places host live DJs and all-night parties that carry on into the early hours of the morning.

Nalu Café and Bolivar Beach Bar are two of the most popular Athenian beach bars. Both establishments have a trendy young vibe during the day.

Stop by in the morning or afternoon to enjoy iced ‘freddo’ cappuccinos and light snacks while lounging on the sunbeds by the sea. Come night time, the exotic cocktails are flowing, and the house music is pounding.

Pay your Respects at a Sacred Mountain

Mount Hymettus is located in the southern suburbs of Athens and is locally known as “the sacred mountain”. Centuries ago, there was a temple of Zeus at the top.

Now though, the crumbling remnants of many ancient temples and religious shrines still remain. From the Korakovouni peak, you can enjoy incredible views across Athens.

Experience the Highlights of Piraeus

Places to Visit in Athens: Piraeus
Places to Visit in Athens: Piraeus

The port city of Piraeus is not a common tourist destination. At first glance, Piraeus may appear as a somewhat industrial port town. Most people stop by only to catch a boat out to the Greek islands and for nothing more.

However, there are plenty of things to do in Piraeus that may leave you pleasantly surprised. History buffs will enjoy the historical museum of Piraeus.

This dates back to the 8th century and displays an array of findings from various civilisations throughout ancient Greek history. Mikrolimano port, and Marina Zeas are charming places to stop for a drink.

Have an Evening Tipple by the Sea at Marina Zea

For refreshing sangrias and coffees with a sea view, check out the elegant Piscina bar (or one of the other lounge options) at Zea Marina, Piraeus. A seemingly infinite number of dinner options can be found in Pasalimani. Here, you can hang out by the sea at ouzo places and restaurants serving exquisite dishes from around the world.

Enjoy a Slice of R&R at Vouliagmeni

Vouliagmeni, The Athens Riviera
Vouliagmeni, The Athens Riviera

Located just 20 km south of Athens, the exclusive district of Vouliagmeni is essentially an extension of the Greek capital. Yet, Vouliagmeni comes with one special addition – coastal life and access to the Aegean Sea!

Magnificent Vouliagmeni

Think upscale beach resorts reminiscent of the Californian coast and you are halfway to picturing Vouliagmeni. The areas of Kavouri and Lemos are home to beautiful beaches which are essentially the places to see and be seen in Southern Athens.

You must pay to access most of the beaches here. However, there are still plenty of clean, free beaches scattered around the region. Not to mention, a plentiful supply of with chic restaurants and bars that allow you to look out to the sea under the cover of your private cabana.

Astir Beach

A local favourite is Astir Beach. Entrance fees here range between €25-50 per day depending on the season.

That said, at Astir beach, you get what you pay for, and here you will be treated like a Queen (or King!) A visit to Vouliagmeni is certainly one of the most scenic things to do in Athens.

Final Thoughts

Have any questions or suggestions on other off-the-beaten-path things to do in Athens? Feel free to reach out to me via the comments below!

I have lived in Greece for the last three years and I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Safe Travels! Geia sou! Melissa xo


highheelsandabackpack

Alice Cooper is a British Travel Writer and Blogger based in Athens, Greece. She writes for numerous high profile travel publications across the globe - including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, The Times of Israel and The Huffington Post.

9 Comments

  1. Hey Melissa,

    thanks so much for the tips. Finally found a blog with real content and not only add-on links and content copied from a touristic folder. The Internet needs more places like yours.

    I´ll be in Athens for a couple of days in the next week and it will be a pleasure to do some hikes and try some of the suggested bars and restaurants.

    Thanks

  2. Aloha!
    My husband and I are just decided to take a trip to Athens in March. I am so glad I came across your website. So well thought out, detailed, and full of life. We will definitely be using your guidance on our trip. We will be in Athens for a week before going to Santorini. Do you recommend any neighborhoods for our stay? We love food, coffee, culture, cocktails, dancing, etc:)
    Also, if you have to choose between Santorini and Mykonos…?

    Thanks for your help.

  3. Hi and thank you for this article, so helpful! I’m going to Athens beginning of December, how cold it usually is? Should i bring a heavy winter jacket? Any particular winter activity i shouldn’t miss? Thanks in advance!!

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