10 Unique Things to Do in Athens (That Most Tourists Miss)

Looking for 10 unique things to do in Athens, Greece, that go beyond the typical tourist checklist? You’re in the right place. This guide reveals hidden gems and authentic local experiences that highlight the real character of the Greek capital. From rooftop bars and artisan markets to a microbakery you’ll never forget, these handpicked activities will make your time in Athens truly unforgettable.

I’ll be honest: the first time I visited Athens, I didn’t have high expectations. I thought it was all about ancient ruins, crowds, and maybe a gyro or two. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Within just a few days, Athens completely won me over. It’s now one of my favorite cities in Europe – a place where ancient history and modern creativity collide. And once you go beyond the big-ticket sights, you’ll discover a raw, vibrant city full of character, community, and incredible food.

➳ Read more: 3 Days In Athens: A Complete Itinerary

Since that first trip, I’ve returned for two month-long workations, giving me the chance to really dig into the local scene. I’ve explored street art that tells the story of the 2010 economic crisis, sipped natural wines in tucked-away bars, browsed weekend markets, and hiked up hills just in time to catch a golden Athenian sunset.

And no, I’m not about to gatekeep. Here’s my carefully curated list of 10 unique things to do in Athens – for curious travelers who want to go deeper and experience the city like a local.

➳ Read more: See all hotel options in Athens

10 Unique Things to Do in Athens

1. Catch the Sunset from Lycabettus Hill – The Highest Point in Athens

For one of the best panoramic views in Athens, head to the top of Lycabettus Hill. As the city’s highest peak, it offers a stunning view that stretches across the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and even as far as the nearby islands on a clear day.

Sunset is the most magical time to visit, when the sky turns golden and the city glows beneath you. To get to Lycabettus Hill you can take the metro to Syntagma or Panepistimio. From the foot of the mountain, it’s a fairly easy 20-minute hike.

Not up for the climb? There’s also a cable car that takes you to the summit. It runs regularly and costs €10 for a return ticket – check the official schedule in advance.

Whether you hike or ride, Lycabettus Hill is absolutely worth adding to your Athens itinerary!

2. Sip a Sunset Cocktail at a Rooftop Bar with Acropolis Views

Athens has no shortage of incredible rooftop bars, and most of them come with a front-row seat to the Acropolis. It’s one of the few cities in Europe where nearly every rooftop feels like a cinematic experience, especially at golden hour.

The ideal time to visit? An hour before sunset. Order a drink and wait for the city to bathe in warm light and the Parthenon to glow against the dusk sky.

Here are a few of my personal favorite rooftop bars in Athens:

• A for Athens – Iconic views in the heart of Monastiraki
• Anglais – Stylish and social with a buzzing crowd
• Retiré at ERGON House – Sophisticated and perfect for a romantic drink

3. Discover Athens’ Creativity on a Street Art Tour – My Favorite Unique Thing to Do in Athens

Athens has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s street art capitals – and for good reason. The city’s walls are filled with impressive street art, from gritty political graffiti to huge city-commissioned murals by well-known artists like INO and Achilles. Much of this movement began during the economic crisis of the 2010s, when art became a powerful outlet for public emotion and protest.

While you’ll definitely spot murals just by walking around, taking a guided street art tour brings a whole new level of insight. You’ll not only learn about the artists and their messages but also gain a deeper understanding of Athens’ recent history and social struggles – all told through the lens of spray paint.

I took a tour with Kalliopi from Awesome Athens Experiences, and it was a highlight of my first trip to Athens. Her passion for art, local stories, and neighborhood tips made it feel like exploring the city with a super-informed friend. Highly recommended if you want to see Athens beyond the postcard version.

4. Visit Kallidromiou Farmers’ Market – A Local Saturday Ritual

If you want to experience Athens like a local, head to the Kallidromiou Farmers’ Market on a Saturday morning. Tucked away in the Exarcheia neighborhood, this vibrant street market is a weekly tradition for Athenians.

Stretching along Kallidromiou Street, the market is packed with stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to olives, herbs, honey, and homemade preserves. Grab some fresh produce for a picnic, buy a bag of sun-dried figs, or simply wander with a coffee in hand and people-watch.

5. Enjoy a Specialty Coffee at Myller – A Hidden Gem in Athens

This is my absolute favorite coffee shop in Athens! Tucked away on a quiet square in Psirri, Myller is one of those spots I almost don’t want to share – but it’s just too good to keep secret. Minimalist, calm, and with a focus on high-quality beans and expert brewing, Myller is a haven for coffee lovers who appreciate both craft and atmosphere. Definitely a unique thing to do in Athens (in terms of almost no tourists!)

Go here for an afternoon coffee, bring your book, and just relax on their sunny patio.

Pro tip! Pair your coffee with their delicious peanut butter cookie.

6. Taste Greek Wines at Cinque Wine Bar

I first discovered Cinque Wine Bar thanks to a recommendation from a follower on Instagram – and now, I make sure to return every time I’m in Athens. Tucked away in the heart of Psirri, this tiny spot is a must-visit for anyone curious about Greek wine.

The bar itself is intimate and welcoming, with only a handful of tables, which makes the experience feel personal and relaxed. You won’t find a formal, stuffy wine tasting here. Instead, you choose from a thoughtfully curated menu of wines – organized by region or style – and each one comes with a brief intro from the friendly staff, plus a tablet-guided tasting to walk you through the notes and stories behind each bottle.

Pair your wine with one of their delicious cheese or charcuterie boards (highly recommended), and you’ve got yourself a perfect pre-dinner activity or a slow, cozy evening in Athens.

Insider tip: The owner is incredibly kind and knowledgeable – don’t hesitate to ask for pairing suggestions or Greek wine recs to take home.

7. Hunt for Vintage Finds at Abyssinia Square Flea Market

If you love vintage treasures, quirky antiques, or just browsing with a coffee in hand, you’ll want to spend a Sunday at the Abyssinia Square Flea Market (sometimes spelled Avissinias Square). Located just off Monastiraki Square, this open-air market is a fascinating mix of chaos and charm – where you’ll find everything from retro vinyls and handmade jewelry to old postcards, military relics, and classic Greek furniture.

Opening hours: The market is open on Sundays

8. Watch a Movie at an Open-Air Cinema with a View of the Acropolis

Watching a movie under the stars is already magical. Doing it with the Acropolis glowing in the background? That’s next-level Athens.

The city is famous for its open-air cinemas, a beloved summer tradition for both locals and visitors. My personal favorite is Thision Open Air Cinema, one of the oldest in Athens and hands-down one of the most scenic. Tucked in a quiet spot near the Acropolis, it offers a unique blend of culture and charm – plus a view that might just steal the spotlight from the film itself.

They screen a mix of international classics and newer releases (usually in their original language with Greek subtitles), and you don’t need to book in advance. Just show up and buy your ticket at the counter before the movie starts. Arrive a bit early to grab a good seat and enjoy some popcorn or a cold beer from the kiosk.

➳ Read more: A Digital Nomad Guide to Crete, Greece

9. Dine on the Iconic Mnisikleous Street Stairs in Plaka

Few dining spots in Athens are as charming as the Mnisikleous Street Stairs in the Plaka neighborhood. This sloped, stone stairway is lined with tightly packed tables and colorful cushions from restaurants that spill out onto the steps. It’s a favorite hangout for both locals and travelers looking for a cozy evening.

Come here for a relaxed dinner of meze (Greek tapas), a glass of local wine, and that classic Athenian evening buzz. My go-to spot here is Anefani, a lovely little taverna with great service and tasty small plates.

Pro tip: Arrive a bit earlier in the evening to snag a good spot, as the stairs fill up quickly, especially on warm nights. Already full when you arrived? Many restaurants, including Anefani, have a gorgeous rooftop with a great view of the Plaka neighborhood.

10. Grab a Next-Level Sandwich at The Black Salami Microbakery

If you’re a sandwich lover, The Black Salami Microbakery is the kind of place that will ruin all other sandwiches for you – in the best way possible. Tucked away in the trendy Exarchia neighborhood, this small, modest bakery serves some of the best sandwiches I’ve had anywhere.

They bake their bread fresh, use high-quality ingredients, and put real thought into every combination on the menu. The vibe is minimalist and cool, and the space is tiny – more of a grab-and-go spot than a sit-down café – but that just adds to its charm. It’s the perfect place for a quick, delicious lunch while exploring the city.

Local tip: It gets busy around lunchtime, so try to go a little earlier to beat the queue. And yes, it really is that good!

Where To Stay in Athens

If you want to get the real Athenian vibe, be close to historical monuments and the best restaurants and bars in Athens, these are all great areas to stay in:

• Monastiraki: Montastiraki is Athens’ historic center, where you are close to many historic sites such as Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, and Hadrian’s Library. Hotel recommendation: Beautiful City Suites
• Psyrri (or Psirri): My favorite area in Athens! Hotel recommendation: Selina Athens.
• Plaka: Plaka’s characteristic narrow streets, colorful houses, flower-filled courtyards, and local restaurants attract many tourists – maybe a bit too many if you ask me. Hotel recommendation: Athens Plaka Family Suites.
• Thiseio: Just like Plaka, Thiseio is located at the foot of the Acropolis, but on the northwest side. Hotel recommendation: Live in Athens, THISEIO Historic House.

Where To Eat in Athens

Athens is known for its delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include Greek salad, moussaka, fava beans, vegetable patties, and tzatziki. Here’s a list of some of my favorite restaurants in Athens:

• Tavern Klimataria
• Avli Psiri
• L’œuf Du Coq
• Mozzart Pizza
• Karamanlidika
• Anefani
• Falafellas
• ERGON House

How to Visit Athens

Planning a trip to Athens? Here’s what you need to know about getting there and getting around once you arrive.

How to Get to Athens

• You can either grab a taxi, which will take 45-60 min depending on traffic. A taxi should cost around €40.
• Another great option is to take the train. There’s a train departing from Athens International Airport every 30 minutes, that takes you directly to Monastiraki square in 45 minutes. You can buy a ticket using one of the machines at the train station. A one-way ticket costs €9 for adults, and €4,5 for children.

How to Get Around Athens

Athens is surprisingly walkable, especially in central neighborhoods like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psirri. But when you need to go farther, the metro is a great option. It’s clean, fast, and easy to use (3 main lines; English signage available).

Best Time to Visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens is spring or autumn, when temperatures are cooler and the city is less crowded. I would recommend April and May, or September and October. I would avoid the summer months as the temperature can get really hot, and the crowds almost too much.

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