THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Athens
Best Free Things to Do in Athens
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Travellers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.
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Neighbourhoods
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208 results sorted by traveller favourites
- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
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Mountains • Lookouts
Kolonaki / Lykavittos
Neighbourhoods
Monastiraki
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Open now
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
Thissio / Makriyanni
Historic Sites • Geologic Formations
Omonia
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Monastiraki
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Syntagma
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Syntagma
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Monastiraki
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals
Syntagma
Architectural Buildings
Akadimia (Academy)
Neighbourhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Omonia
Historic Sites • Government Buildings
Syntagma
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Thissio / Makriyanni
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
Syntagma
Religious Sites
Kolonaki / Lykavittos
Neighbourhoods
Psirri / Gazi
Historic Walking Areas
Monastiraki
•
Open now
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Showing results 1-30 of 208
What travellers are saying
- Kaeden M2 contributionsA very safe and aesthetically pleasing area to walk around. There are many shops and places top eat, so perfect for just catching some fresh air. Plus lots of interesting art to see.Written 23 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- 609RogerHSidmouth, UK339 contributionsWe were lucky that the temperature was in the low twenties so we could walk to the top. Just take your time and enjoy the views on the way up. I think this is much better than taking the funicular. There is also a greater feeling of satisfaction. The view of the Parthenon on the way is magnificent.Written 26 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- bigboy61455xxx1,189 contributionsFor white buildings at Anafiotika quarter, walk uphill road next to Acropolis Museum from Plaka. Some people had difficulty finding this quint place. I saved St George on the Cliff church on my google map and it is way easier that way.
You will just need to make a loop from this landmark. Be mindful as real people still live here. So limit your noise when visiting.
Be aware of pickpockets!
(Anafiotika quarter is the placed where workers/builders from Cyclades island came for job in Athens and settled. Since I do not have time to visit Mykonos, this is the closest I can get with Whitewashed houses.)Written 5 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Camila M6 contributionsWe visited Monastiraki with my boyfriend and really enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere! The narrow streets are full of small shops, vintage items, and cozy cafés. Our walk was wonderful, especially with the beautiful view of the Acropolis, though it’s good to stay alert in some busier spots where it can feel a bit crowded. Despite that, it’s a unique experience, and we’d love to visit again!Written 31 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Gaye NPerth, UK517 contributionsWell worth the climb. We went up through the trees and not path set out, a bit scrambling needed but worth it for views every time we stopped to catch our breath. We made it to the monument. Views from here at a 360o degree angle cannot be beaten no other view of the Acropolis and all other the city can beat it. Wander back down proper path and you will find the Pnyx and Socrates prison. A highlight of our trip to be up here.Written 21 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tzvi GJerusalem, Israel53 contributionsNational Garden: A Green Getaway
The National Garden is a peaceful spot in the heart of Athens, with shady, intersecting paths that make it perfect for a relaxing stroll. There’s even a small café—nothing fancy, but it’s surrounded by nature, making it a great place to sit and soak in the calm. A nice hour walk.Written 19 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Cassie HCalgary, Canada1,082 contributionsThe market itself was cool but they were actively preparing the fish when we were there and it grossed me out. Was crazy to see they sell everything from olives to live birds.Written 17 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- John SDurham, NC1,202 contributionsDuring our time in Athens, we visited Mars Hill, an elevated site rich in history and cultural significance. Located below the Acropolis, Mars Hill (Areopagus) offers stunning views and a deep connection to ancient Greek and Christian history. Climbing the rocky steps, we felt the presence of centuries past.
Famous as the place where Apostle Paul delivered his sermon about the “unknown god,” Mars Hill is both awe-inspiring and humbling. The serene atmosphere made it feel as if the stones whispered stories of history. We were especially captivated by the sweeping views of the Parthenon and modern Athens, reflecting the city’s blend of history and progress.
Walking the grounds, we thought of ancient philosophers who once debated here. Mars Hill, once a meeting place for the Athenian council, brought history to life. The site is free, with a plaque commemorating Paul’s sermon, adding to its significance. A visit to Mars Hill is a must for those seeking reflection and connection to Athens' rich past.Written 19 September 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Tamara PMinot, ND128 contributionsYou definitely have to experience the Changing of the Guard ceremony. I recommend that, if possible, you visit the one on Sunday. It is the largest, with the parade etc. We were told to get there a half hour early... NO. I recommend that, if you want to see the whole thing, you get there 45 minutes to an hour early. If you are facing the Parliament, you will want to be on the left. They will only let so many people in that space so once they feel like it is enough they will cut everyone else out and you will have to go across the street to view the ceremony. You will not be disappointed with this one!!Written 17 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Thomas VOakland, CA18,905 contributionsIt's an interesting neighborhood and one where we sought out lunch, successfully. Lots of street art and it is a little skruffy, but we thought that was OK. Still very much in the center of things.Written 16 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AdhinaSouth Africa405 contributionsLovely street to walk through when weather is good. Lots of shops and restaurants and other small vendors. Worth a walk through even if you are not a shopperWritten 3 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tamara PMinot, ND128 contributionsIf you love history, walking through the doors of this 1000-year-old church will do more than take your breath away. It is an amazing experience with an amazing history. And to find it in the middle of the square, among modern and cosmopolitan businesses and shops is simply unique. To enter and view the church is free.Written 17 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Susan LDenver, CO504 contributionsNot very crowded. Impressive what these young men must learn. It’s almost as if a dance choreographer gave them lessons, but as a soldier.Written 2 June 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ShevaCentral Greece, Greece12 contributionsThe most central location of Athens and the cleanest - better visit at Spring and avoid the summer. Average temp is 37 CelsiusWritten 9 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Thomas VOakland, CA18,905 contributionsThis ancient street takes you through part of the Plaka and past some sites of ruins. As always, there are cafes and restaurants around and lots of souvenir stores.Written 25 March 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
