Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece, located in the southern part of the country, on the plain of Attica. It is known for its ancient landmarks, rich culture, and vibrant street life. Athens is home to many famous landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora.
The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as moussaka (a baked dish with eggplant and minced meat), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and tzatziki (a yogurt and cucumber dip). Athens has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters.
The public transportation system in Athens includes buses, trams, and a modern subway system, providing easy access to all parts of the city. However, many locals and tourists opt for walking to explore the city’s historic streets and charming neighborhoods. Athens is also a major transportation hub, with an international airport serving domestic and international flights.
- Country: Greece
- Population: 3.75 million
- Language: Greek
- Currency & Exchange Rate: Euro (EUR), 1 EUR = 1.12 USD (as of February 2023)
- Area size: 412 km²
- Main airport: Athens International Airport
- Visitors per year: Approximately 6 million
- Official website for visa application: https://www.mfa.gr/en/visas/visas-for-foreigners-traveling-to-greece/
Best Things To Do in Athens
Here are the top 10 must-visit activities in Athens, Greece:
- Acropolis: A world-famous and iconic ancient citadel located in the heart of Athens, with many historic ruins and monuments, as well as beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Price: From EUR 20 (approx. USD $24) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.theacropolis.gr/
- Parthenon: A beautiful and historic temple located on the Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: From EUR 20 (approx. USD $24) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.theacropolis.gr/
- Ancient Agora: A fascinating and informative archaeological site located in the heart of Athens, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history and culture of ancient Greece, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: From EUR 10 (approx. USD $12) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/
- The Acropolis Museum: A modern and interesting museum in Athens, with many exhibits and artworks showcasing the history and culture of ancient Greece, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: From EUR 10 (approx. USD $12) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/
- Plaka: A picturesque and popular neighborhood in Athens, with many small shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as many interesting murals and street art.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- National Archaeological Museum: A fascinating and informative museum in Athens, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history and culture of ancient Greece, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: From EUR 10 (approx. USD $12) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.namuseum.gr/en/
- Mount Lycabettus: A beautiful and picturesque mountain located just outside Athens, with many opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, as well as beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Benaki Museum: A unique and interesting museum in Athens, with many exhibits and artworks showcasing the history and culture of Greece, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: From EUR 9 (approx. USD $11) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://www.benaki.org/index.php?lang=en
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: A beautiful and historic amphitheater located on the Acropolis, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: Varies by event
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh355.jsp?obj_id=2384
- Temple of Olympian Zeus: A beautiful and historic temple located in the heart of Athens, dedicated to the god Zeus, with many interesting designs and features, as well as beautiful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Price: From EUR 8 (approx. USD $9.50) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3
Here are the top 10 activities for kids in Athens, Greece:
- Acropolis Museum: A museum and archaeological site, with exhibits on the history and culture of ancient Athens, including sculptures, pottery, and artifacts, as well as a restaurant and a gift shop.
- Price: €10 (approx. $12 USD) per person, free for children under 18
- Website: https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en
- National Archaeological Museum: A museum and archaeological site, with exhibits on the history and art of ancient Greece, including statues, jewelry, and frescoes, as well as guided tours and a gift shop.
- Price: €10 (approx. $12 USD) per person, free for children under 18
- Website: https://www.namuseum.gr/en/
- The Hellenic Children’s Museum: A museum and educational center, with interactive exhibits and workshops on science, art, and culture, as well as a playground and a cafe.
- Price: €7 (approx. $8 USD) per person, free for children under 2
- Website: https://www.childrensmuseum.gr/en/
- Athens Planetarium: A planetarium and science center, with shows and exhibits on astronomy, space, and technology, as well as a gift shop and a cafe.
- Price: €8 (approx. $9 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://www.planetarium.gr/
- Attica Zoological Park: A zoo and animal park, with over 350 species, including big cats, primates, and birds, as well as playgrounds, shows, and a cafe.
- Price: €20 (approx. $24 USD) per person, free for children under 3
- Website: https://www.atticapark.com/en/
- Allou Fun Park: An amusement park and entertainment center, with rides, games, and attractions, as well as food courts, shops, and a cinema.
- Price: Prices vary depending on the rides or activities
- Website: https://www.allou.gr/en/
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: A cultural center and public space, with performances, events, and activities, such as concerts, dance shows, and workshops, as well as gardens, a library, and a cafe.
- Price: Free admission, some events may have a fee
- Website: https://www.snfcc.org/en
- Mount Lycabettus: A scenic hill and park, with panoramic views of the city and the sea, as well as walking trails, a funicular, and a restaurant.
- Price: Free admission, funicular ride €7 (approx. $8 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Plaka Neighborhood: A historic neighborhood and shopping district, with narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, and souvenir shops, as well as taverns and cafes.
- Price: Prices vary depending on the goods or services
- Benaki Museum: A museum and cultural center, with exhibits on the history and art of Greece, including paintings, sculptures, and costumes, as well as guided tours and a gift shop.
- Price: €12 (approx. $14 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://www.benaki.org/index.php?option=com\_content&view=article&id=57&Itemid=488&lang=en
Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in Athens, Greece:
- Plaka: The historic and cultural heart of Athens, Plaka is known for its stunning ancient ruins, beautiful architecture, and lively atmosphere.
- Kolonaki: An upscale and chic neighborhood that is located to the east of the city center, Kolonaki is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining restaurants, and trendy cafes.
- Syntagma: The political and administrative center of Athens, Syntagma is known for its stunning neoclassical buildings, important government institutions, and beautiful parks.
- Monastiraki: A vibrant and bustling neighborhood that is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
- Psirri: A trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood that is popular with young professionals, Psirri is known for its hip cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops.
- Exarcheia: A diverse and multicultural neighborhood that is known for its street art, live music, and community events.
- Gazi: A trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood that is popular with artists, creatives, and young professionals, Gazi is known for its hip cafes, art galleries, and nightlife.
- Thissio: A peaceful and residential neighborhood that is located to the west of the city center, Thissio is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Neos Kosmos: A multicultural and diverse neighborhood that is located to the south of the city center, Neos Kosmos is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively community events.
- Pangrati: A peaceful and residential neighborhood that is located to the east of the city center, Pangrati is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Here are the top 10 restaurants in Athens, Greece:
- Spondi: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: Pyrronos 5, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.spondi.gr/
- Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani: Casual restaurant offering a menu of traditional Greek cuisine, including cured meats and cheeses.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Sokratous 1, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.karamanlidika.gr/en/
- Hytra: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of modern Greek cuisine.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 107-109, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.hytra.gr/
- Funky Gourmet: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of modern Greek cuisine with molecular gastronomy influences.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: Paramithias 13 & Salaminos, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://funkygourmet.com/
- Varoulko Seaside: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of seafood dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Akti Koumoundourou 52, Mikrolimano, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.varoulko.gr/
- Nolan: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Mediterranean and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Megalou Alexandrou 16, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://nolanrestaurant.gr/en/homepage/
- Aleria: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine made with local ingredients.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Megalou Alexandrou 57, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.aleria.gr/
- Kuzina: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Adrianou 9, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.kuzina.gr/
- Athiri: Casual restaurant offering a menu of traditional Greek cuisine made with local ingredients.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Plateon 15, Athens, Greece
- Website: https://www.athiri.gr/
- Mani Mani: Casual restaurant offering a menu of traditional Greek cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Falirou 10, Athens, Greece
- Website: http://www.manimani.gr/
Here are the top 10 most popular bars/pubs in Athens, Greece:
- Brettos Bar – historic bar with colorful decor and homemade liquors in Plaka area
- Six Dogs – bar and live music venue with a garden and a rooftop terrace in Monastiraki area
- The Clumsies – bar and restaurant with an elegant decor and a cocktail selection in Psirri area
- The Gin Joint – speakeasy-style bar with a retro decor and a gin selection in Syntagma area
- Baba Au Rum – bar with a Caribbean-style decor and a rum selection in Psirri area
- MoMix Bar – molecular mixology bar with creative cocktails and a modern decor in Monastiraki area
- The Lazy Bulldog Pub – traditional English-style pub with pub food and a cozy decor in Monastiraki area
- Baba Rafi – bar and restaurant with a Middle Eastern-style decor and a hookah selection in Gazi area
- The Bank Job – speakeasy-style bar with a retro decor and a cocktail selection in Gazi area
- The Clumsies Annex – bar and restaurant with a vintage decor and a cocktail selection in Monastiraki area
And here are the top 10 best rooftops in Athens:
- A for Athens – rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city in Monastiraki area
- Couleur Locale Rooftop Bar – rooftop bar with city views and a Mediterranean-style decor in Psirri area
- Galaxy Bar – rooftop bar with panoramic city views in Hilton Athens hotel, Kolonaki area
- 360 Cocktail Bar – rooftop bar with panoramic city views and a cocktail selection in Monastiraki area
- Point a – rooftop bar with city views and a modern decor in Kolonaki area
- The Zillers Rooftop Bar – rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city in Plaka area
- Island – rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic views of the sea and the city in Pireas area
- Thea Terrace Bar – rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city in Peristeri area
- City Zen Rooftop Bar – rooftop bar with city views and a cocktail selection in Omonia area
- Electra Roof Garden – rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic city views and a Mediterranean menu in Electra Metropolis hotel, Monastiraki area.
Here are the top 10 shopping areas in Athens, Greece:
- Ermou Street: This pedestrian street is located in the heart of Athens and is known for its fashion stores, boutiques, and souvenir shops. It’s the most popular shopping area in Athens and a must-visit for tourists.
- Monastiraki Flea Market: This outdoor market is located in the historic Monastiraki neighborhood and features many vendors selling antiques, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience local culture and find unique gifts and souvenirs.
- Kolonaki: This upscale neighborhood is known for its designer stores, luxury boutiques, and art galleries. It’s a great place to shop for high-end fashion and accessories.
- Plaka: This historic neighborhood is known for its traditional shops, souvenir stores, and artisan workshops. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs while exploring the city’s rich history and culture.
- Athens Central Market: This indoor market is located near Omonia Square and features many local vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and meat. It’s a great place to experience local cuisine and culture.
- Glyfada: This coastal suburb is known for its high-end fashion stores, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- The Mall Athens: This large shopping mall is located in the suburb of Marousi and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Golden Hall: This large shopping mall is located in the suburb of Marousi and features many international fashion brands, luxury stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to shop and dine in luxury.
- Pangrati: This neighborhood is known for its trendy shops, local boutiques, and vintage stores. It’s a great place to find unique clothing and accessories.
- Kifissia: This upscale suburb is known for its designer stores, luxury boutiques, and art galleries. It’s a great place to shop for high-end fashion and accessories while enjoying the scenic views and luxurious atmosphere.
Here are the top 10 museums in Athens, Greece:
- The Acropolis Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the ancient history and culture of Athens, including artifacts, sculptures, and interactive displays, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 10 (about $12 USD) for adults, EUR 5 (about $6 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.theacropolismuseum.gr
- The National Archaeological Museum of Athens: A museum with exhibits related to the ancient history and culture of Greece, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 10 (about $12 USD) for adults, EUR 5 (about $6 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.namuseum.gr/en
- The Benaki Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the art and culture of Greece, including paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 9 (about $11 USD) for adults, EUR 7 (about $8 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.benaki.org
- The Museum of Cycladic Art: A museum with exhibits related to the art and culture of the Cycladic islands, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 7 (about $8 USD) for adults, EUR 3.50 (about $4 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.cycladic.gr/en
- The Byzantine and Christian Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the Byzantine and early Christian history and culture of Greece, including icons, mosaics, and manuscripts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 8 (about $10 USD) for adults, EUR 4 (about $5 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.byzantinemuseum.gr
- The Museum of Islamic Art: A museum with exhibits related to the Islamic history and culture of Greece, including ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 8 (about $10 USD) for adults, EUR 4 (about $5 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.mia.gr/en
- The Museum of Ancient Agora: A museum with exhibits related to the ancient history and culture of Athens, including artifacts, inscriptions, and architectural fragments, as well as guided tours and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 8 (about $10 USD) for adults, EUR 4 (about $5 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en/content/archaeological-site-ancient-agora
- The Goulandris Museum of Natural History: A museum with exhibits related to the natural history and biodiversity of Greece, including specimens, fossils, and interactive displays, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 8 (about $10 USD) for adults, EUR 4 (about $5 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.gnhm.gr/en
- The Museum of the City of Athens: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Athens, including paintings, photographs, and historical artifacts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 5 (about $6 USD) for adults, EUR 3 (about $4 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.cityofathens.gr/mca
- The Epigraphical Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the study of inscriptions from ancient Greece, including epigraphs, vases, and sculptures, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: EUR 4 (about $5 USD) for adults, EUR 2 (about $3 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.emuseum.gr/en
Here are the top 10 parks in Athens, Greece:
- National Garden: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Zappeion Exhibition Hall and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Philopappos Hill: This park is located near the Acropolis and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including several peaks and the Philopappos Monument. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Stavros Niarchos Park: This park is located near the Palaio Faliro area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre and the National Library of Greece. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Lycabettus Hill: This park is located near the Kolonaki area and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including a peak and the Chapel of St. George. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Pedion tou Areos Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Athens War Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Parnitha National Park: This park is located near the city and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including several peaks and the Parnitha Casino. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Alsos Veikou: This park is located near the Vyronas area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including a pine forest and a lake. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
- Kaisariani Monastery: This park is located near the Kaisariani area and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and a historic landmark, the Kaisariani Monastery. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and cultural events.
- Dimokritos Park: This park is located near the Agia Paraskevi area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several sports facilities. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Alsos Papagou: This park is located near the Papagou area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including a pine forest and a stream. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
Opening hours & prices are subject to changes. Please visit the website for updated information.
TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Athens
Weather in Athens:
Athens has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Here are the average temperatures in Athens throughout the year:
- Summer (June to August): 20-33°C (68-91°F)
- Fall (September to November): 12-24°C (54-75°F)
- Winter (December to February): 6-14°C (43-57°F)
- Spring (March to May): 11-22°C (52-72°F)
Peak Season: Athens’ peak tourist season is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is hot and sunny, and many tourists come to enjoy the city’s historical and cultural attractions. This is also the busiest time, and prices for accommodations and attractions are higher.
Off-Peak Season: The best time to visit Athens in terms of smaller crowds and more affordable prices is during the shoulder seasons from March to May and from September to November. Although the weather may be cooler, you can enjoy discounts on accommodations and attractions, and the city is less crowded.
In addition, visiting during cultural events such as the Athens Epidaurus Festival or the Athens International Film Festival can be a unique and memorable experience.
In summary, the best time to visit Athens is during the shoulder seasons from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. If you’re looking for hot and sunny weather, visiting from June to August can also be a great option, but expect larger crowds and higher prices. Additionally, visiting during cultural events can offer unique opportunities to experience Athens’ vibrant culture.
Here’s a summary of transportation options for getting around Athens, Greece:
- Metro: Athens has a modern and efficient metro system that serves most parts of the city and some of the surrounding areas. A single ride typically costs EUR 1.40 (about $1.62 USD), and there are various types of passes available. The official website for the map of the lines is https://www.ametro.gr/.
- Bus: Athens also has an extensive bus network that covers most parts of the city and some of the surrounding areas. A single ride typically costs EUR 1.40 (about $1.62 USD), and there are various types of passes available. The official website for the map of the lines is https://www.oasa.gr/en/.
- Tram: Athens has a tram system that serves the coastal areas of the city. A single ride typically costs EUR 1.40 (about $1.62 USD), and there are various types of passes available. The official website for the map of the lines is https://www.tramsa.gr/en.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Athens, and they are metered. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day, but it’s important to note that taxis in Greece are required by law to issue a receipt.
- Bike: There are several bike rental options available in Athens, and biking can be a great way to explore the city’s many parks and bike-friendly paths. The cost varies depending on the rental company and the length of the rental.
- Walking: Athens is a very walkable city, and many of the major tourist destinations are located within walking distance of each other. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s ancient landmarks and historic neighborhoods.
Overall, Athens has a modern and efficient public transportation system, with the metro, bus, and tram systems providing convenient and cost-effective options for getting around the city. Taxis can be useful for short trips or exploring specific areas of the city, and biking can be a great way to explore the city’s more bike-friendly areas. Walking is an excellent way to explore the city’s many ancient landmarks and historic neighborhoods.
Here are the top 10 celebrities from Athens, Greece:
- Aristotle: 384-322 BCE – philosopher and scientist, known as one of the most influential thinkers in Western philosophy and contributed to the development of many fields, including logic, metaphysics, biology, and ethics
- Plato: 428/427 BCE-348/347 BCE – philosopher and founder of the Academy in Athens, known for his influential works such as The Republic and Symposium, and for being the teacher of Aristotle
- Sophocles: 496/5 BCE-406/5 BCE – playwright, known for his tragedies such as Oedipus Rex, Antigone, and Electra, and considered one of the greatest playwrights in Western literature
- Yannis Ritsos: 1909-1990 – poet and playwright, awarded the Lenin Peace Prize and the International Botev Prize and considered one of the greatest Greek poets of the 20th century
- Maria Callas: 1923-1977 – opera singer, awarded multiple Grammy Awards and known for her contributions to the world of opera, particularly for her performances in the bel canto repertoire
- Melina Mercouri: 1920-1994 – actress and politician, awarded the Cannes Film Festival Best Actress Award and known for her work in Greek and international cinema and for her contributions to Greek politics and culture
- Dimitris Mitropanos: 1948-2012 – singer and songwriter, known for his contributions to Greek music and his distinctive voice in the laiko and rebetiko genres
- Odysseas Elytis: 1911-1996 – poet, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature and known for his contributions to modern Greek poetry and his poetic collections such as Axion Esti
- Nana Mouskouri: born 1934 – singer and politician, awarded multiple Gold and Platinum records and known for her contributions to Greek and international music and for her work in the European Parliament
- Theodoros Angelopoulos: 1935-2012 – filmmaker and screenwriter, awarded the Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or and known for his contributions to Greek cinema and his works such as The Travelling Players and Ulysses’ Gaze.
Here are 10 notable movies that were filmed in Athens, Greece:
- Before Midnight (2013) – This romantic drama is set in Greece and features several scenes shot on location in Athens.
- The Bourne Identity (2002) – This action-thriller features several scenes set in Athens, including a thrilling car chase through the city’s narrow streets.
- Mamma Mia! (2008) – This musical romantic comedy is set on a Greek island but features several scenes shot on location in Athens, including the famous “Dancing Queen” sequence at the Acropolis.
- The Two Faces of January (2014) – This thriller is set in Athens and follows the story of a wealthy couple who get involved in a murder investigation.
- Zorba the Greek (1964) – This classic film is set on the island of Crete but features several scenes shot on location in Athens, including a memorable dance sequence in a nightclub.
- Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (2001) – This romantic drama is set on the Greek island of Kefalonia but features several scenes shot on location in Athens.
- Never on Sunday (1960) – This romantic comedy is set in Athens and follows the story of an American intellectual who falls in love with a prostitute.
- For Your Eyes Only (1981) – This James Bond film features several scenes set in Athens, including a chase sequence through the city’s streets and a dramatic escape from the Acropolis.
- The Big Blue (1988) – This drama is set largely in the Aegean Sea but features several scenes shot on location in Athens, including the film’s opening sequence.
- The Durrells (2016-2019) – This television series is set on the Greek island of Corfu but features several scenes shot on location in Athens.
Here are 10 interesting facts about Athens, Greece:
- Athens is the capital city of Greece and is known for its rich history, stunning ancient landmarks, and vibrant culture.
- The Acropolis is a famous landmark in Athens that features a variety of ancient Greek structures, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.
- The National Archaeological Museum is a popular attraction in Athens that features a variety of exhibits related to Greek history and culture, including artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.
- Greek cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, including dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.
- The Plaka neighborhood is a popular destination in Athens that is known for its beautiful architecture, traditional shops, and tavernas.
- The Athens Festival is a popular cultural event in the city that features a variety of music, theater, and dance performances.
- The Ancient Agora is another famous landmark in Athens that features a variety of ancient Greek structures, including the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.
- Athens is a city of innovation, with a growing tech industry and a variety of startups and tech companies based in the city.
- The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a beautiful ancient theater in Athens that is still used for concerts and other cultural events.
- Athens is a city of contrasts, with ancient landmarks sitting alongside modern high-rise buildings and trendy neighborhoods.
Here are ten popular entertainment venues in Athens, Greece:
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus – a historic amphitheater that hosts concerts, theater shows, and other cultural events
- Athens Concert Hall – a modern performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and hosts a variety of shows, including classical music concerts, theater, and music performances
- Gazi Music Hall – a popular music venue that hosts concerts, live shows, and other cultural events
- National Theatre of Greece – a theater that hosts plays, musicals, and other cultural events, as well as offers workshops and training programs for aspiring actors and performers
- Cine Paris – a cinema that showcases local and international films, as well as hosts seminars, workshops, and other cultural events
- Technopolis City of Athens – a cultural center that includes multiple exhibition spaces, a performance hall, and a library for various shows and performances
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center – a large cultural complex that includes multiple theaters, exhibition spaces, and other facilities for various shows and performances
- Megaron Athens Concert Hall – a performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and hosts a variety of shows, including classical music concerts, theater, and music performances
- Allou Fun Park – a popular amusement park that features rides, games, and other entertainment options
- Lycabettus Theatre – a historic outdoor theater that hosts concerts, theater shows, and other cultural events, as well as offers stunning views of the city.
Here are the top 10 dishes to try in Athens, Greece:
- Moussaka – This classic Greek dish features layers of sliced eggplant, ground beef, and potatoes, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden and crispy.
- Souvlaki – This popular street food features tender pieces of grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) that are served on a skewer with a side of pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
- Greek Salad – This refreshing salad features a mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Gyros – This classic Greek dish features slices of roasted meat (usually pork or chicken) that are wrapped in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
- Spanakopita – This savory pastry is made with phyllo dough that’s stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden and crispy.
- Dolmades – These stuffed grape leaves are a popular appetizer in Greek cuisine, featuring a filling of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground beef.
- Taramasalata – This popular dip is made from fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, and bread crumbs, and it’s often served with pita bread or vegetables.
- Saganaki – This popular appetizer features fried cheese (usually feta or kefalotyri) that’s served hot and crispy with a side of lemon.
- Octopus – Greece’s fresh seafood is a must-try, and grilled octopus is a popular choice in Athens. It’s often served with a variety of sides, like potatoes and vegetables.
- Baklava – This sweet and indulgent dessert is made with layers of phyllo dough that are filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup, then baked until golden and crispy.
Here are the top 10 events in Athens, Greece:
- Athens Epidaurus Festival: A cultural festival featuring theater, music, and dance performances, with local and international artists
- May/June/July/August/September
- Various venues throughout Athens and Epidaurus
- https://greekfestival.gr/en/home/
- Athens Pride: A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Athens, featuring a parade, concerts, and cultural events
- June
- Various locations throughout Athens
- https://athenspride.eu/
- Athens International Film Festival: A film festival showcasing both Greek and international films, with a focus on independent and alternative cinema
- September/October
- Various venues throughout Athens
- https://www.aiff.gr/en/
- Athens Technopolis Jazz Festival: A music festival featuring jazz performances from local and international musicians
- May/June
- Technopolis, Athens
- https://jazzonline.gr/en/jazznews/jazz-festival-in-greece/item/2713-athens-technopolis-jazz-festival-2019.html
- Athens Marathon: A long-distance running event featuring a full marathon, a 10K race, and a fun run, with a route that includes historic sites in Athens
- November
- Various locations throughout Athens
- https://www.athensauthenticmarathon.gr/site/index.php/en/
- Athens Street Food Festival: A food festival featuring street food from Greece and around the world, with food trucks, cooking workshops, and live music
- May/June
- Technopolis, Athens
- https://streetfoodfestival.gr/
- Athens Fashion Week: A fashion event featuring Greek and international designers, with runway shows and exhibitions
- March
- Various venues throughout Athens
- http://www.athensfashionweek.com/
- Athens Wine Week: A wine festival featuring Greek wines, with tastings, food pairings, and wine-related events
- May
- Various locations throughout Athens
- https://www.athenswineweek.gr/
- Athens Biennale: An art event featuring contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and other cultural events
- Every two years (most recently in 2018)
- Various venues throughout Athens
- https://athensbiennale.org/
- Athens Science Festival: A science festival featuring interactive exhibits, workshops, and talks on various scientific topics
- April
- Technopolis, Athens
- https://www.athens-science-festival.gr/





