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Best Things to do in Athens (2026)

Some of the most memorable experiences in Athens cost nothing at all. Every hour, the Evzones of the Presidential Guard change watch at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of Parliament, with a full parade and band on Sunday mornings at 11:00. A short walk west, the Monastiraki Flea Market spreads from Monastiraki Square into the lanes around Avissinias Square, where antique dealers and junk stalls are busiest on Sundays.

Food is a good way into the city's everyday life. The Varvakios Central Market on Athinas Street has traded since 1884, with a great fish hall, meat aisles and old canteens serving the traders; go in the morning, and note that it is closed on Sundays. For the classic view of the Parthenon, climb Philopappos Hill, the pine-covered Hill of the Muses across from the Acropolis, ideally around sunset. To see modern Athens, take the free shuttle bus from Syntagma to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Renzo Piano's home for the National Library and National Opera, set in a large park with a canal, bike paths and free events throughout the year. Most of these can be combined with the main sights on foot, so they slot easily into a two or three day stay.

5 places · Updated October 27, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Athens

  1. Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Ceremony, SyntagmaThe Evzones of the Presidential Guard change watch every hour in front of Parliament, with a full ceremonial parade and band on Sundays at 11:00.
  2. Monastiraki Flea Market Flea market and shopping district, MonastirakiThe old-town market district around Monastiraki Square and Avissinias Square, where antique dealers, junk stalls and souvenir shops crowd the streets below the Acropolis.
  3. Varvakios Central Market Food market, Historic CentreAthens' central food market since 1884, with a vast fish hall, meat aisles, produce stalls and old market canteens on Athinas Street.