10 best things to do in Athens, Greece

If Greece is the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is where it all began. This legendary city is the birthplace of democracy and the center for philosophy, arts and education, a living museum where marble ruins from thousands of years ago rise beside bustling cafés and modern boutiques. Walk the streets where famous philosophers like Socrates, Plato and Aristotle once stood. There’s simply no other place like it. 

What makes Athens truly unforgettable is its blend of old and new. One moment you’re tracing the footsteps of philosophers in the Agora, and the next you’re sipping a cold frappe in a sunny plaza experiencing a classic European summer day. Venture up to Lycabettus Hill or the Acropolis viewpoint for sweeping panoramas of the city that stretch all the way to the Aegean, and it’s the kind of view that makes you pause and just take it all in. 

And the best part? Athens is incredibly easy to explore. With great shore excursion options from Princess, you can get to all the highlights of the city from the cruise port easily and with no stress. Whether you’re here for a few hours or an overnight stay before or after your cruise to Athens, this city is an unforgettable destination.

Athens is a city that feels alive with history — where every step seems to echo with stories from thousands of years ago. Whether you’re here for a day at port or staying longer before or after your cruise, these top 10 experiences capture the very best of this incredible city.

Rising high above Athens, the Acropolis is the city’s most iconic sight — and for good reason. This ancient hill is home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, Odeon of Herodes Atticus and even the Theater of Dionysus, where people used to gather to see works by legendary storytellers like Sophocles and Euripides. Walking up its sun-warmed marble paths feels like stepping into the pages of history. 

The Parthenon’s majestic columns gleam in the morning light, and from the top, you can see the city stretch all the way to the sea. Arrive early to enjoy cooler air and fewer crowds, then take your time admiring one of the most breathtaking views in Greece.

Experience the Acropolis on a Princess excursion, and our expert guide will take you up the 80 steps of the Parthenon for one of the best views in Athens at its most iconic site.

Just a short walk from the Acropolis, this modern museum offers a cool (literally — it’s air-conditioned!) retreat filled with ancient treasures. You’ll find marble sculptures, pottery and artifacts that tell the story of Athens’ golden age, beautifully displayed with views of the Parthenon above. It’s the perfect stop before or after your Acropolis visit. Join a Princess excursion to explore this museum with an expert guide as you see artifacts depicting Athenian life for centuries. 

Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, the Plaka neighborhood feels like a Greek island village in the heart of the city. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, lined with cafés serving iced coffee and boutiques selling handmade jewelry and leather sandals. Just above, the whitewashed houses of Anafiotika climb the hillside, offering postcard-perfect views of the Acropolis. Don’t forget to stop for a scoop (or two) of pistachio gelato!

On the Princess excursion to the Parthenon, you’ll stop at the Plaka where you can spend a few hours wandering this historic shopping district. It’ll be the perfect stop to pick out your perfect Greek souvenir. 

Once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, the Temple of Olympian Zeus still inspires awe with its towering Corinthian columns. Nearby, Hadrian’s Arch frames views of both old and new Athens — a powerful reminder of how seamlessly the city blends eras. Both sites are easy to visit on foot from Plaka or Syntagma Square, making this a quick but unforgettable stop. See these stunning ruins as a stop on the ultimate Athens excursion, just after the Acropolis and the Plaka. 

In front of the Parliament building, the Evzones guards perform a precise, ceremonial routine every hour — complete with traditional uniforms featuring pom-pom shoes and pleated kilts. It’s a must-see slice of Greek culture and an easy photo stop during your city wanderings. Start your day in Athens right out front of the Parliament building where you can watch the guard change before diving into Greece’s ancient history.

Step inside the world’s only all-marble stadium, a gleaming masterpiece that once hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Walk the track where athletes competed over a century ago, or simply sit in the stands and picture the roar of the crowd. It’s a fun and family-friendly stop close to central Athens. Experience the Old Olympic Stadium on a Princess excursion for the chance to explore an iconic piece of Olympic and Greek history.

For one of the most spectacular views in the city, hop on the funicular railway or hike to the summit of Mount Lycabettus. From the top, the Parthenon gleams in the distance, surrounded by a sea of whitewashed rooftops. Time your visit for sunset, when the city glows golden and the Aegean sparkles on the horizon. We’ll take you up the cable car as part of an Athens sightseeing tour, so you can see the city from its highest vantage point. 

Just outside Athens lies one of Greece’s most impressive engineering feats — the Corinth Canal, a narrow, rock-cut waterway connecting the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Watching ships glide through its towering limestone walls is mesmerizing. Join a Princess excursion to Ancient Corinth, where you can see temple ruins and Roman roads that have stood the test of time.

End your Athens adventure on a high note — literally — at Cape Sounion, where the Temple of Poseidon stands atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the azure Aegean Sea. The view here is legendary, with blue skies as waves crash below. It’s the perfect, peaceful finale to a day of exploring Greece’s vibrant capital with your Princess excursion.

Athens is a feast for the senses, and that doesn’t just apply to its history. The city’s food scene is full of flavor, warmth and local pride. Start your culinary adventure with classic meze plates, a Greek tradition of sharing small bites that might include creamy tzatziki, tangy feta, olives and grilled vegetables drizzled with golden olive oil. Follow it up with souvlaki fresh off the skewer or grilled seafood caught just hours before — best enjoyed at a seaside taverna with a view of the Aegean.

For something truly memorable, head beyond the city to the lush countryside for a wine tasting at a historic estate. The Queen’s Tower Estate, once home to Greek royalty, offers a serene escape surrounded by vineyards and cypress trees. Sip local varietals while learning about centuries of winemaking tradition — and enjoy a glimpse into Greece’s aristocratic past.

Whether you’re sampling street food in Monastiraki, enjoying a glass of Assyrtiko under the stars or joining a traditional dance at a folkloric show, Athens’ culture invites you to savor every moment.

A day in Athens is an adventure, and a little planning helps you make the most of every moment. The Greek sun can be strong, so bring sunscreen, a hat and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city’s hilly terrain and marble walkways.

Cruise ships dock in Piraeus, about 20–30 minutes from central Athens. You can take a taxi or shuttle, but Princess excursions make it easy with direct transportation and guided access to top attractions, saving you time and hassle. If you’re interested in more time in Athens, stay and play and explore the city before or after you depart on your Princess Cruise. With this option, you can even book Princess excursions to help you reach all the best parts of Athens without the stress. 

To beat the crowds and midday heat, start your morning at the Acropolis when the light is soft and the air is cooler. Afterward, spend your afternoon your way: whether that’s exploring world-class museums, relaxing in a shady café in Plaka or browsing artisan shops for keepsakes to bring home.

No matter how you spend your time, Athens rewards curiosity and a sense of wonder at every turn.