The best things to do in Athens

What is it? Every autumn, Athens transforms into a cinephile’s playground during the Athens International Film Festival.

Why go? The festival screens premieres, retrospectives, and masterclasses across several central cinemas, while the glamorous opening gala takes place at the Megaron Athens Concert Hall. With a mix of international stars, acclaimed Greek directors, and late-night screenings, it’s one of the capital’s biggest cultural draws, adding a cinematic glow to the city as summer fades into fall.

Time Out tip: Some of the screenings are followed by parties in nearby bars where – if you’re lucky enough – you can meet members of the cast and crew of the films.

Address: Vasilissis Sofias Avenue & Kokkali Street, 115 21, Athens 

Opening hours: October 1-12, 2025

Price: €5-15 depending on performance 

What is it? This 2,500-year-old rocky outcrop perched in Athens’ modern metropolis is the sight you’ve only dreamed about. The Acropolis finds itself at the very top of our list because if you do one thing in Athens, it has to be this. 

Why we love it: The monuments here are considered the greatest architectural feats of Greek antiquity. The Parthenon temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is perfectly proportioned and considered the world’s finest Doric masterpiece. Round the corner is the Acropolis Museum, which is well worth checking out – since 2009 it has accommodated all the artifacts found in the area that were previously exhibited on top of the ancient hill.

Time Out tip: Try to avoid visiting on hot summer days, as the rocky, sun-exposed site offers little natural shade and can be difficult to endure. During extreme heatwaves, authorities often close it to visitors.

Address: Acropolis Hill, 105 58, Athens 

Opening hours: Open from April to August 8am-8pm, September to October 8am-7.30pm. 8am-5pm November-March. 

Price: Around €20 in the summer and €10 in the winter

What is it? Athens isn’t short on treats for fans of Greek mythology. This temple at Sounion, which is dedicated to the mighty Poseidon, should be one of the first temples on your checklist.

Why we love it: He may be the god of oceans, but Poseidon’s palace stands 60 metres above sea level on Cape Sounio. This marble temple was first built by ancient Athenians to honour Poseidon and guide sailors safely home. All that remains now is a series of towering columns that don’t half look beautiful against a glorious Greek sunset. Bear in mind the temple is a bit of a way from the city center, so if you don’t drive, you might need to take a bus or two to reach it (but it's definitely worth it).

Time Out tip: In the warmer months, combine your visit to the site with a refreshing swim at a nearby beach.

Address: Cape Sounion, Sounio 19500, Athens

Opening hours: Daily 9.30am-sunset (usually around 6.30pm, extended in summer)

Price: €10-12

What is it? Lycabettus Hill is one of the highest peaks in Athens. You can get to it by hiking up a forested slope – only briefly, mind – or, if you’re feeling lazy, there’s a cable car to the top.

Why we love it: At the peak, you’ll find one of the most sweeping views of the city. There’s also a pretty whitewashed church called St George, a café and Orizontes, a gourmet Greek restaurant with surely the capital’s most scenic terrace. Concerts are held at the Lycabettus open-air theatre, built on another part of the hill, in the summertime. 

Time Out tip: Go at dusk for the best panoramic view of Athens, with the Acropolis glowing in golden light, or enjoy a concert under the stars.

Address: Lycabettus Hill, 114 71, Athens 

Opening hours: Accessible at all times; funicular runs daily 9am-1.30am

Price: Funicular ~€7 round trip