City break goals? Athens ticks every box. Jaw-dropping ruins, sunshine-soaked squares, gorgeous nearby beaches, and a food scene that'll have you ordering just one more mezze plate every night.

🏛️ Athens Highlights

• Acropolis & Parthenon – The big one. Iconic ruins with views that’ll have your camera roll working overtime.

• Lycabettus Hill – Jump on the cable car and get a 360-degree view of the city (sunset up here is next level).

• Temple of Poseidon – A little drive away at Cape Sounion, but worth it for the history and horizon alone.

• Open-Air Cinemas – Catch a flick under the stars in one of the city’s alfresco theatres – romance, scenery and popcorn included.

🎉 Good to Know

• Fun Fact: The Acropolis can be spotted from nearly anywhere in the city – handy for navigating, even better for holiday snaps.

• Best Beach: Voula Beach – Calm, clean waters and family-friendly vibes, just a short ride from the centre.

• Price of a Pint: Expect to pay around €4–€5 (£3.40–£4.25), but head to a local taverna and you might shave a euro off.

🏨 Top places to stay on your holidays to Athens

• 🏛️ Athens City - Stay here on your Greece holidays if you want to be within walking distance of the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the winding lanes of Plaka. It's packed with rooftop bars, museums, and tavernas serving up moussaka until the early hours. Within the centre, you've got Monastiraki (buzzy markets and street food), Psiri (nightlife central), Koukaki (trendy and local), and Kolonaki (upmarket boutiques and brunch spots). The obvious pick for Culture Vultures who want an Athens city break where they can see it all on foot.

• 🏖️ Glyfada -  Welcome to the Athenian Riviera. Glyfada is the go-to for travellers who want sun, sand and a bit of glam without straying too far from the city. Think designer boutiques, cocktail bars, and beach clubs. It's a 30-minute tram ride from the centre, so you can easily do ruins by day and Riviera by night. Ideal if you're after an Athens beach holiday with a side of style – great for couples and groups who like their jollies with a bit of glitz.

• ⚓ Piraeus - Athens' historic port is the gateway to the Greek islands – so if you're planning to hop on a ferry to Mykonos, Santorini, or the Saronic Islands, staying here makes life easy. It's got a grittier, more authentic feel than the polished tourist centre, plus some seriously good seafood tavernas around Mikrolimano harbour. A smart base for island-hoppers looking to get more out of their holidays to Athens.

• 🌿 Vouliagmeni - This is the luxe end of the Athens coast. Pine-backed beaches, a famous thermal lake, and some of the fanciest hotels in the region. If your idea of an Athens holiday involves spa treatments, upmarket dining and crystal-clear water, Vouliagmeni is calling your name. It's quieter and more relaxed than Glyfada – perfect for couples or anyone after a slower pace on their beach holiday in Athens.

• 🏝️ Lagonissi - A little further down the coast, Lagonissi is a quieter coastal option with resort-style hotels and calm, family-friendly beaches. It's a bit more tucked away, making it ideal for travellers who want the best of both worlds – beach relaxation with easy access to Athens for day trips. A top pick for cheap holidays to Athens that still feel like a proper escape.

• 🌅 Sounio - Right on the tip of the Attica peninsula, Sounio is home to the famous Temple of Poseidon – and some seriously spectacular sunsets. It's a brilliant base if you want dramatic clifftop views, quieter beaches, and a more off-the-beaten-path feel. Ideal for history lovers and romantics looking for something different from the typical Athens city break.

Other places to stay on your Athens holidays:

• Agioi Theodoroi - Agli Apostoli - Anavyssos Beach - Kamena Vourla - Kantia - Marathonas - Mati - Nea Makri - Vravrona

🏖️ What are the best beaches to visit on your Athens holidays?

While Athens might be better known for its Acropolis than its sunlounger count, don’t be fooled – the Athenian Riviera is packing some serious seaside swagger. Here are the best beaches for your city-meets-coast escape:

• Voula Beach – just a tram ride from the centre, this organised beach serves up calm, shallow waters, loads of shade, and family-friendly vibes. Bonus points for cafés and sunbeds galore.

• Porto Rafti – a proper local hotspot east of the city, with crystal-clear waters, chilled beach bars, and a more low-key, authentic feel. Perfect for a relaxed swim and seafood lunch after.

• Alimos Beach – this glam beach club brings soft golden sands, swish loungers, and music-backed beach cocktails. It’s a fab option if you like your sunbathing with a side of scene.

• Varkiza Resort Yabanaki Beach – a cracking all-rounder with beach sports, family zones, restaurants, and even waterslides. It’s like a beach day and a mini theme park rolled into one.

• Glyfada Beach – chic, sandy, and just 30 minutes from central Athens, Glyfada is where stylish city locals come for a weekend flop. Think trendy cafés, beachwear boutiques and swanky cocktails on the promenade.

🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Athens?

When you're cooking up your perfect jolly, all the ingredients have gotta be bang on, and we reckon the most important element to the perfectly dished up jolly is the hotel of course (bonus points if you said the beach, we see you). We've got hotels to suit all rhyme and reason, whether you're looking to snag a bargain, book something on the luxury side of life, or you've made a totes last-minute decision to jet off, we've got you covered:

• Royal Olympic Hotel - this is the five-star show stopper you've been dreaming of, with a poolside bar, a rooftop garden and an on-site fitness centre, y'know, just to cover all the bases.

• Melia Athens - rooftop sky lounge complete with pool and city views... need we say more?

• Palmyra Beach - a cheap and cheerful option only a short stroll away from the beach and Glyfada Square if you're more about getting out and exploring rather than lounging poolside.

• Divani Caravel - here to give the Royal Olympic a run for its money, this five star spot is a perfect pick for a city break, we're talking on-site dining options, indoor and outdoor pools and plenty of wellness facilities from a Turkish bath to massage services and a fully-equipped gym.

• Dolce by Wyndham Athens Attica Riviera - we couldn't go through all of these recs without giving you one on the beach now could we? It comes complete with a kids club, tonnes of sports facilities, evening entertainment and a delish buffet-style restaurant.

🧳 Your Athens holidays 2026 travel guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Athens for families

Athens is a family holiday haven, bursting with big sights, wide-open spaces and plenty to keep the kids from shouting “I’m bored” every five minutes.

• Head to the Acropolis Museum – it’s interactive, air-conditioned, and full of cool artefacts (plus a killer café view).

• Explore the National Garden – loads of shady trees, a little zoo, and space to let off steam.

• Catch a flick at Cine Thission – an open-air cinema where you can munch popcorn under the stars.

• Hop on the Happy Train – this bright red mini train tours the old town and goes down a treat with the little ones.

• Take a tram to Flisvos Marina – home to playgrounds, gelato stops and pirate-style ships they can clamber all over.

❤️ Things to do in Athens for couples

Whether it’s your first holiday together or you’re looking to bring back the date night magic, Athens knows how to turn on the charm.

• Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill – champagne optional, but highly encouraged.

• Wander hand-in-hand through Plaka’s flower-filled lanes, popping into cute cafés and craft shops.

• Grab a table at a rooftop bar with views of the Acropolis – lit up at night, it’s pure rom-com material.

• Explore Anafiotika – a hidden slice of island life right under the Acropolis.

• Take a coastal drive to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon – history with a side of golden hour glow.

🎉 Things to do in Athens for groups

Whether you’re rolling deep with the gang or it’s a cheeky mate-cation, Athens has the goods for a group jolly.

• Start strong with brunch in Psiri – avo toast, freddo espresso and full Greek fry-ups all in the mix.

• Hit up Monastiraki Flea Market – ideal for quirky souvenirs and a bit of people-watching.

• Visit the Acropolis early (or late) to dodge crowds and get those iconic squad shots.

• Spend an afternoon bar-hopping through Koukaki or Gazi – beer flights, mezze and good vibes guaranteed.

• Book a group cooking class and learn how to roll your own dolmades or smash some moussaka.

🥙 Things to do in Athens for foodies

Greek food with a side of ancient ruins? Yes, please. Athens is made for grazing from taverna to taverna.

• Feast on fresh gyros from street vendors – crispy, juicy, perfect.

• Head to Varvakios Agora (Central Market) for local spices, olives, and sweet Greek treats.

• Tuck into seafood by the coast at Mikrolimano – calamari, octopus, and fish so fresh it might still be swimming.

• Try loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) with honey and cinnamon from a street cart or café.

• Book a spot at a fine dining rooftop like Strofi – think modern twists on Greek classics with views of the Acropolis.

🧳 Getting around on your Athens holidays

• 🚇 Metro – fast, clean and super affordable. The easiest way to bounce between neighbourhoods and major sites.

• 🚋 Trams – great for connecting the city centre to the beachside suburbs, especially Glyfada and Voula.

• 🚶‍♂️ Walking – the historic centre is totally walkable. Plus, there’s something magical about stumbling upon ruins mid-stroll.

🛍️ Shopping in Athens

Whether you're after ancient souvenirs, designer threads or just a good old rummage through a flea market, Athens has got the goods (and they're ready to sell them to you). Here's where to flash the plastic on your Athens holiday:

• 🛒 Ermou Street - Athens' main shopping drag is a pedestrianised strip running from Syntagma Square towards Monastiraki. It's lined with all the usual high street suspects – plus Greek favourites and international brands. Great for a browse when you need a break from the ruins.

• 🧺 Monastiraki Flea Market - Bustling, chaotic and brilliant. This is the place for vintage finds, handmade jewellery, leather sandals, quirky antiques and all the olive oil soap you can carry. Sundays are the busiest (and best) day to visit, when the whole area comes alive with stalls spilling into the surrounding streets. Go early, haggle politely, and wear comfy shoes. A must-visit on any Athens holidays.

• 💎 Kolonaki - If your budget's feeling generous, Kolonaki is where you'll find Athens' more upmarket boutiques. Designer fashion, local jewellery brands, concept stores and art galleries line streets like Voukourestiou and Tsakalof. It's got a proper "ladies who brunch" energy – think espresso martinis and shopping bags. Perfect if your holiday to Athens has room for a splurge.

• 🧀 Varvakios Agora (Central Market) - Not technically a shopping trip – more of a sensory experience. This covered market is the real deal: butchers, fishmongers, spice stalls, and vendors selling everything from olives to ouzo. It's noisy, colourful, and a brilliant spot to pick up foodie souvenirs. There are a few no-frills tavernas inside too, if you fancy a pit stop between sightseeing.

• 🎨 Plaka - The cobbled streets of Plaka are packed with souvenir shops selling ceramics, sandals, worry beads and all the "My Big Fat Greek" merch you could ever want. Yes, it's touristy, but it's also charming – and handy for picking up gifts when you're already wandering between some of the amazing sights you're packing in on your (too short) Athens break.

💶 Cheap Things to Do on Your Athens Holiday

Think you need deep pockets to explore one of the world's oldest cities? Think again. Athens is brilliant for budget travellers – here's how to soak up the history, culture and vibes without blowing your holiday fund.

• 🆓 Free Acropolis Days Yep, you can see the big one for nowt. The Acropolis is free on March 6, April 18, May 18, October 28, the last weekend of September, and every first Sunday from November to March. Get there early – everyone else has the same idea.

• 🏛️ Free Museums The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture is free every Thursday (and stays open until midnight). The National Historical Museum is free every Sunday. And the quirky Museum of Greek Folk Instruments? Always free.

• 💂 Changing of the Guard Head to Syntagma Square any hour on the hour to watch the evzones (presidential guards) do their iconic high-kicking ceremony. On Sundays at 11am, you get the full platoon with a marching band – properly impressive and completely free.

• 🌳 National Garden Right behind Parliament, this 38-acre green oasis is perfect for escaping the heat. Shady paths, duck ponds, a little zoo, and not a euro required.

• 🌅 Sunset at Areopagus Hill Skip the pricey rooftop bars and watch the sun go down from this rocky outcrop just below the Acropolis. Bring a bottle of wine (the Greeks won't mind) and enjoy front-row views of the Parthenon glowing gold. Magic.

• 🎨 Street Art in Exarchia This bohemian neighbourhood is basically an open-air gallery. Wander the streets and discover huge murals, political graffiti and some seriously cool artwork – all without paying a penny.

• 🚶 Free Walking Tours Several companies offer tip-based walking tours of the historic centre. You'll get the inside track on Athens' history from a local guide, and you only pay what you think it's worth.

• 🏟️ Jog Around Kallimarmaro The Panathenaic Stadium (where the first modern Olympics were held) charges entry, but you can jog or walk around the outside for free – and it's still pretty spectacular.

• 🛍️ Monastiraki Flea Market Browsing is free, and even if you do splash out on a pair of leather sandals or some olive oil soap, you won't be breaking the bank. Sundays are the liveliest.

• 🏖️ Beach Day on the Riviera Grab a €1.40 tram ticket and head to Voula, Glyfada or Alimos for a dip in the Aegean. Some beaches charge a couple of euros for sunbed access, but plenty of spots are completely free.

🚗 Day Trips from Athens

One of the best things about an Athens holiday? The city's a brilliant base for exploring more of Greece. Whether you fancy ancient ruins, gravity-defying monasteries or a cheeky island hop, there's loads to see within a couple of hours...

• 🏛️ Delphi - Once considered the centre of the world by the ancient Greeks, Delphi is proper bucket-list stuff. Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the UNESCO-listed site is home to the Temple of Apollo, an ancient theatre, and a cracking museum. It's about 2.5 hours from Athens by car or coach – most day tours stop at the pretty mountain village of Arachova on the way, which is worth a wander (and a coffee) in its own right.

• ⛰️ Meteora - If gravity-defying monasteries perched on giant rock pillars sounds like your thing, Meteora won't disappoint. It's a bit further out (around 4 hours), so most people do it as an overnight trip or a very long day, but the views are absolutely jaw-dropping. You can visit a couple of the monasteries, soak in the scenery, and feel like you've stepped into a fantasy film. It's one of those experiences that turns a standard holiday to Athens into something truly unforgettable.

• 🏟️ The Peloponnese (Nafplio, Mycenae & Epidaurus) - For history buffs, the Peloponnese is an absolute goldmine. Nafplio is a gorgeous seaside town with Venetian vibes, Mycenae lets you walk through the Lion Gate and explore Bronze Age ruins, and Epidaurus has one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Greece (the acoustics are unreal – you can hear a pin drop from the back row). You can hit all three in a day trip, or spread it out and stay overnight if you want to make your Athens holidays go further.

• 🏝️ Saronic Islands (Hydra, Aegina & Poros) - The Saronic Islands are just a short ferry ride from Piraeus. Hydra is car-free and impossibly chic, Aegina has pistachio orchards and ancient temples, and Poros is all about laid-back seaside charm. You can do a day cruise that hits all three, or just pick one and take your time.

• 🌅 Cape Sounion & the Temple of Poseidon - If you're staying in Sounio, you're already there – but even if you're based in the city, the Temple of Poseidon is well worth the hour-long drive. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, it's one of the most dramatic sunset spots in all of Greece. Pack a picnic, snap some photos, and soak in the mythology. Ideal for couples on a romantic Athens break or anyone chasing golden hour magic.

More Greek holidays:

• Corfu

• Crete

• Halkidiki

• Kefalonia

• Kos

• Mykonos

• Peloponnese

• Preveza

• Rhodes

• Samos

• Santorini

• Skiathos

• Thessaloniki

• Zante