10 Best Things to Do Near the Parthenon in Athens
The Parthenon sits at the heart of a remarkably dense cluster of world-class sites. Within a 15-minute walk, you can explore 2,500 years of history, eat fantastic food, and find some of the city's best bars. Here is what to do after — or before — your Acropolis visit.
Acropolis Museum
The must-see companion to the Acropolis hill — world-class museum with the original sculptures
15 minutes walk from the main Acropolis entrance. Houses the original Caryatids, Parthenon frieze, and thousands of artifacts from the Archaic period. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Ticket: 10 euros.
Ancient Agora of Athens
The political heart of ancient Athens — where democracy was born
10 minutes walk west of the Acropolis. The marketplace where Socrates debated. The Stoa of Attalos (a reconstructed covered market) is surprisingly impressive. Included in the 30 euro combined ticket.
Plaka Neighbourhood
Athens most charming old quarter — winding streets, neoclassical houses, great cafes
Adjacent to the Acropolis north slope. Perfect for post-visit lunch and exploring on foot. Best area for traditional Greek tavernas and souvenir shopping.
Theatre of Dionysus
The world's first theatre — birthplace of Western drama
On the south slope of the Acropolis hill, visible from the main path. Included with Acropolis entry. Where Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus premiered their plays for audiences of 17,000.
Filopappou Hill
Free viewpoint with arguably the best Acropolis photography angle in Athens
5 minutes walk from the Acropolis entrance (follow signs). Free, always open. The elevated angle gives the classic Parthenon-on-hilltop photo. Sunset is spectacular.
Monastiraki Flea Market
Athens most atmospheric market — antiques, vintage, and street food
15 minutes on foot (or 2 stops on Metro Line 1). Best on Sunday mornings when it expands into Avyssinias Square. Mix of genuine antiques and tourist items.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Athens largest ancient temple — once the biggest in the Greek world
20 minutes walk east (or 5 min by Metro). 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns still standing. Included in the 30 euro combined ticket.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Still-functioning 2nd-century Roman theatre — hosts world-class performances every summer
On the south slope of the Acropolis. Performance season runs June-October. Previous performers: Placido Domingo, Elton John, Yanni. Check programme at herodeon.gr.
Thissio Outdoor Cinema
Watch films under the stars with the Acropolis lit up behind the screen
One of Athens most romantic experiences. The Cine Thission (open-air cinema) runs May-October. Around 10 euros per ticket. Bring a jumper for later screenings.
Athens Street Art in Psirri
Award-winning murals in Athens creative neighbourhood — 15 min walk
The Psirri neighbourhood, north of Monastiraki, has some of Europe's best street art. Self-guided (use Google Maps), or book a street art tour. Free. Great in late afternoon light.
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