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Best Landmarks in Athens, Greece: 24 Famous Athens Landmarks to Visit Once in Your Life

Visiting Greece and wondering what famous Athens landmarks to visit?

Immerse yourself in the splendour of the iconic landmarks in Athens, Greece, and experience the timeless beauty that has captivated visitors throughout the ages.

There are countless famous Athens landmarks, each one serves as a testament to the city’s rich heritage and captivating history. From the ancient wonders that have stood for centuries to the modern architectural marvels that leave visitors in awe, Athens is a city that deserves a place on everyone’s travel bucket list.  

In this guide, I’ll give you all the details to explore the most famous landmarks in Athens and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Parthenon, a majestic structure with a series of columns in a white marble on a sunny day
The Parthenon

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24 Most Famous Athens Landmarks

Start your captivating journey as you explore the most famous landmarks of Athens, Greece.

Delve into the iconic Athens Acropolis, where the majestic Parthenon proudly stands, and uncover the fascinating stories behind its ancient ruins. From the bustling streets filled with life to the historic sites that echo the city’s past, Athens is a treasure trove of rich history and cultural heritage. 

Immerse yourself in the famous landmarks Athens has to offer, and let its enchanting landmarks transport you to a bygone era. This ultimate bucket list features the must-see Athens landmarks that will undoubtedly take your breath away. Let’s go!

Unmissable Landmarks in Athens Greece

  • The Acropolis
  • The Parthenon
  • The Erechtheion
  • Temple of Athena Nike
  • Odeon of Herodes Atticus
  • Theatre of Dionysus
  • Acropolis Museum
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Ancient Agora
  • Temple of Hephaestus
  • Roman Agora / Roman Forum of Athens
  • Hadrian’s Library
  • The Lyceum of Aristotle
  • National Archaeological Museum
  • Plaka Neighbourhood
  • Panathenaic Stadium
  • Hadrian’s Arch
  • Mount Lycabettus
  • Philopappos Hill 
  • Kerameikos Cemetery
  • Plato’s Academy
  • Syntagma Square
  • The Greek Parliament
  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Best Way to See These Monuments in Athens, Greece

When it comes to checking out Athens’ famous landmarks you’ve got plenty of ways to get around:

By Metro: The Metro system is a top pick for exploring Athens. It’s clean, efficient, and won’t break the bank. Plus, it’s a breeze to reach major attractions like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square. This was my favourite way to get about the city.

By Bus and Tram: Hop on a bus or tram to zip around the city and reach all the popular landmarks. Buses are budget-friendly, while trams offer a more nostalgic ride.

By Taxi: Taxis are everywhere in Athens. Just flag one down or head to a taxi stand. While they may cost a bit more than public transport, they’re ideal for groups or when you’ve got lots of luggage. Be careful of scams, and agree on the price before you get in.

By Hop-on-hop-off Bus: For a fun and flexible experience, try the hop-on-hop-off bus. You’ll get a guided tour of the city’s highlights, and you can jump off and explore whenever something catches your eye.

Money Saving Tip

If you’re planning on visiting quite a few of the ruin sites, including the Acropolis, then it’s worth buying the multi-pass.

It covers 7 different ruin sites in the city and saves you a fortune compared to buying individual tickets for each – all of them are listed in this article so you can find out more about each place.

The 7-site pass includes:

  • The Acropolis
  • Ancient Agora
  • Roman Agora
  • Temple of Zeus
  • Aristotle’s School
  • Hadrian’s Library
  • Keramikos Ancient Cemetery

Book your Athens Multi-Pass Here

24 Must Visit Landmarks of Athens

I absolutely loved the time I spend in Athens, a lot more than I initially thought. 

I knew about the Acropolis and a few of the other monuments, but I wasn’t expecting SO MANY outstanding places of interest in such a small place. Athens is like an open-air museum, there’s so much to see. 

Here we have it, my list of 24 famous sights in Athens that I 100% recommend visiting.

1. The Acropolis

The Acropolis, also known as Acropolis Hill, is an absolute gem among historical sites in Athens, Greece. It dates back more than 3000 years ago.

Perched high above the city, it is home to a plethora of fascinating ancient Athens attractions. As you explore this ancient wonder, prepare to be captivated by its magnificent columns and intricate architectural details. 

The crown jewel of the Acropolis is undoubtedly the iconic Parthenon, a breathtaking temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The Acropolis also houses other notable structures, including the Temple of Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids, the Propylaea entrance gateway, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus Amphitheater.

From the Acropolis, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Athens that will leave you in awe. Visiting the Acropolis is like stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the rich history of ancient Athens. 

I visited the Acropolis twice during my time in Greece – I’m obsessed with temples ruins, so I wanted to visit once by myself so I could take my time and peruse over every detail, and then I visited as part of a tour to get more insight into the history. 

The Acropolis gets insanely busy. I arrived on both occasions as soon as the gates opened. There was next to no one there at the time, and I could get gorgeous photos without anyone in there. By about 10 am the place was rammed which is when I went to explore the lesser visited parts of the complex.

Insider Tip: There are two entrances to the Acropolis, these are connected by the pedestrian-friendly Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. The main entrance is closer to the Parthenon, BUT this is always the busiest of the two entrances. I suggest entering via the entrance in Plaka and walking up through the grounds surrounding Acropolis Hill. 

Acropolis Hill offers stunning views during sunset, with the cityscape and surrounding trees
Acropolis Hill at Sunset

2. The Parthenon

One of the integral parts of the Acropolis is The Parthenon, which stands as one of the most iconic Athens historical sites in the world. 

This ancient masterpiece is a testament to the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon’s majestic columns and intricate sculptures showcase the artistic brilliance of the era. 

Despite the ravages of time and history, the Parthenon continues to captivate visitors with its enduring beauty and historical significance. Its iconic presence has made it one of the most famous Greek landmarks, drawing in tourists from far and wide. 

As you stand in awe before this ancient marvel, you can’t help but feel a profound connection to the rich cultural heritage of Athens. The Parthenon is not just a historical site; it is a symbol of Greece’s glorious past and a testament to human achievement. 

The Parthenon is the most visited attraction in Greece, with over 1 million people visiting per year. It gets crowded. If you want to see it without the crowds then Pristine Parthenon Tour gives you skip-the-line access as soon as the gates open and your gide takes you straight to all the best places.

The Parthenon showcases intricate carvings in white-marble stone, highlighting its exquisite details
Details on The Parthenon

3. The Erechtheion

Another building situated within the magnificent Acropolis is the Erechtheion. This remarkable structure, nestled alongside other notable buildings, is a true highlight of the ancient Athenian world. 

With its graceful Ionic columns and the iconic Caryatids standing tall, the Erechtheion exudes an aura of elegance and mystique. 

The Erechtheion’s unique design, with multiple levels and distinct architectural features, showcases the ingenuity of the ancient Greeks. Make sure you walk around the back of the building to see the ancient olive tree and get a better idea of the terraced layout of the building.

The statues that you can see are reconstructions. If like me, you want to see the originals, you’ll find them inside the Acropolis Museum on the second floor.  

Close up view of the sculptured statues at The Caryatids on The Erechtheion
The Caryatids on The Erechtheion

4. Temple of Athena Nike

As you traverse the majestic entrance to the Acropolis, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Temple of Athena Nike. This temple, dedicated to the goddess of victory, is a testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of the ancient Athenians and stands overlooking the gateway into the Acropolis.

It still features graceful columns and intricate friezes. You can see them as you approach the impressive Propylaea entrance. The temple’s strategic location offers outstanding views of the city below, and out to the sea.

The Temple of Athena Nike features white-brown columns and bricks with a clear blue sky in the background
Temple of Athena Nike

5. Odeon of Herodes Atticus

One standout gem within the Acropolis complex is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is built into Acropolis Hill. Built in honour of Herodes Atticus’ wife, this stunning structure was built to host theatrical performances and musical concerts. It’s also one of the historical places in Athens, Greece that’s still in use today!

By day it continues to enchant visitors – it’s a gorgeous structure – with the backdrop of the green hills. The Odeon’s semicircular design, adorned with marble and stone, reflects the architectural brilliance of its time and although parts have been repaired over the centuries, much of it is still thousands of years old! 

An open-air stone theater in a white-cream color seats, featuring a front wall that offers a majestic view of the city
Odeon of Herodes Atticus

6. Theatre of Dionysus

The theatre of Dionysus stands as a testament to the city’s rich theatrical heritage. 

This ancient amphitheatre is dedicated to the Greek god of wine and theatre. It’s steeped in history and it was here that ancient Athenians gathered to see performances of legendary playwrights like Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus. 

Although both the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus feature a semi-circular tiered structure and were used for performance, unlike the Odeon, this Theatre isn’t in use today. However, it’s still incredible to see a glimpse of the past, where drama and storytelling flourished.

The Theatre of Dionysus features stone and marble benches arranged in a semi-circular shape, offering panoramic views of the landscape
Theatre of Dionysus

7. Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is located at the bottom of Acropolis Hill. It’s not officially part of the Acropolis complex. Opening in 2009, this is one of the more modern famous landmarks in Athens, Greece. 

Housing an extensive collection of archaeological treasures, the museum showcases artefacts unearthed from the Acropolis site itself. 

Some of the highlights and things I recommend you visit here are the stunning Parthenon friezes and the Caryatid statues.

The friezes would once have been around the top of the Parthenon. There is so much detail in these sculptures, I spent ages looking at all the carefully carved details. They’re outstanding!

Five carved statues standing inside the Acropolis Museum
Acropolis Museum

Parts of the friezes are originals, and others are casts – the originals being in other museums around the world – British Museum, London has a large part of the frieze called the ‘Elgin Marbles’ which I hope one day will be returned to their rightful place. 

The state-of-the-art museum also has digital and physical reconstructions helping to show what the Acropolis would have looked like in its heyday. The museum also has expansive windows that give fabulous panoramic views of the Acropolis Hill. 

I recommend spending at least a couple of hours here taking everything in. The museum’s galleries really help tell the story of ancient Greek civilization, from its mythical origins to its golden age of democracy. With informative displays and interactive exhibits, the Acropolis Museum brings history to life, offering a truly immersive experience for visitors of all ages. 

Insider Tip: If you’re wanting to see another building that seamlessly combines old and new, then I recommend the National Library of Greece. It consists of two libraries that were joined together creating the biggest library in the country. It’s home to over one million books!

Sculpted of horsemen of the Parthenon inside the Acropolis museum
Friezes from The Parthenon

8. Temple of Olympian Zeus

This monument, dedicated to the king of the gods, Zeus, is a testament to the city’s architectural prowess and rich history. 

Several of Athens’ monuments are undergoing substantial repair – after all, they are thousands of years old – this is one of them. Despite it being supported by scaffolding right now, you can still appreciate its importance. 

The remains of the temple’s colossal Corinthian columns* once reached a height of 17 metres. Originally consisting of 104 columns, it was one of the largest temples in the ancient world!

Today, 15 columns still stand as well as a couple of ancient gateways – adjacent to the temple, you’ll see the impressive Arch of Hadrian, a Roman triumphal arch that served as a symbolic gateway between the old and new parts of the city. 

The Temple of Zeus is included as part of the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

*Currently the Odeon of Zeus is undergoing major renovations, so there’s a lot of scaffolding over the site

The Temple of Olympian Zeus features white-cream marble columns standing tall on a sunny day
Temple of Olympian Zeus

9. Ancient Agora

This was another one of my absolute highlights in Athens, and I spend hours in here.

This archaeological site, once the bustling marketplace and civic centre of ancient Athens, offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life.  

This site also features the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus – this seems fitting as it’s dedicated to the god of craftsmanship. It features intricate Doric columns and friezes. 

Be sure to wander through the Stoa of Attalos, a reconstructed ancient covered walkway that housed shops and provided shelter for gatherings – don’t forget to go upstairs for some stunning views overlooking the entire archaeological site. 

The grounds of Ancient Agora really help showcase how life was back in ancient times. I suggest spending a couple of hours here to fully explore the statues, altars, and monuments that dot the site.

Ancient Agora is included in the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

Ancient Agora surrounded by trees in a clear blue sky

10. Temple of Hephaestus

The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the most stunning ancient buildings in Athens.

This incredibly preserved building dates back to the 5th century BC. Unlike the Parthenon, this temple is intact and adorned with intricate friezes depicting mythological tales.

The Temple of Hephaestus, also known as the Hephaisteion sits on a strategic location on top of a hill within the Ancient Agora site. Looking down provides a panoramic view of the ancient city, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur from a unique vantage point. 

Visit the Temple of Hephaestus in the grounds of Ancient Agora, which is part of the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

The Temple of Hephaestus showcases columns and intricately carved roofs standing under a blue sky
Temple of Hephaestus

11. Roman Agora / Roman Forum of Athens

Travel back in time as you explore the captivating Roman Agora, also known as the Roman Forum. 

This archaeological site, located near the Ancient Agora, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman period. Stroll through the remains of this once-bustling marketplace and administrative centre, where Roman citizens gathered for commerce and civic affairs. 

One of the most striking buildings here is the impressive Tower of the Winds. 

This ancient clocktower is adorned with intricate reliefs depicting the eight wind deities. It was used to estimate time by the position of the sun and the shadows it cast, the tower also served as a weather station and was used for forecasting. 

The Roman Agora combines Roman and Greek influences, with architectural elements from both civilizations coexisting in harmony. 

Roman Agora is included in the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

The Ancient Clocktower in Roman Agora with a carved statue in a white-cream marble with a palm trees at the front
The Ancient Clocktower in Roman Agora

12. Hadrian’s Library

One of the most important historical landmarks in Athens, Greece can be found at Hadrian’s Library. Built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this grand structure served as a public library and cultural centre.

This building would once have housed the treasures of ancient knowledge. The library once contained countless scrolls and books, offering a wealth of knowledge at the time. 

Although a lot of the structure is gone, there’s still a very evident layout, with some features still remaining. It’s a huge library, and enough to rival any modern-day equivalent. You can imagine the bustling atmosphere of scholars, intellectuals, and curious minds that once filled its halls. 

Hadrian’s Library stands as a testament to the importance of education and the pursuit of wisdom in ancient Athens.

Insider Tip: If you’re visiting Hadrians Library, then take a short walk to Panagia Kapnikarea Church. This Greek Orthodox is one of the oldest churches in Athens. Although, for most, it’s probably not worth a trip in itself, it’s close to Hadrians Library so I recommend tagging it on when you visit as a bit of a detour.

You can visit Hadrian’s Library as part of the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

The arch at Hadrian's Library, made of brown brick in a clear blue sky
Hadrians Library
Hadrian's Library features intricately carved designs on its marble surfaces
Hadrians Library

13. The Lyceum of Aristotle or Aristotle’s School

Step into the footsteps of one of history’s greatest minds as you explore the remarkable Lyceum of Aristotle in Greece. 

On this site was once the renowned school founded by the legendary philosopher Aristotle.  This is where Aristotle began his teachings and engaged in profound discussions with his students. 

From an educational stance, this is one of the most important historical places in Greece. The Lyceum is a significant place in the history of education, where critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge were fostered. 

There are no impressive buildings at this site, just the footprints of what would have been training grounds and meeting places. There are lots of explanation boards dotted around pointing out the various features. 

Despite the lack of buildings, you can’t deny the importance of this place and wander through the ruins where Aristotle’s teachings started. Even after thousands of years, they still play their part in Western philosophy, science, and politics today!

You can discover Aristotle’s School as part of the Athens 7 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket

The Lyceum of Aristotle Appearance, with a lot of boards pointing on the footprints on the sand surrounded by buildings and trees
The Lyceum of Aristotle

14. National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most famous buildings in Athens. It has a significant collection of ancient Greek art and artefacts. 

Inside, you’ll find stunning sculptures, intricate pottery, and exquisite jewellery on display. From the iconic Mask of Agamemnon to the captivating Antikythera Mechanism, the museum’s vast collection showcases the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks. 

To see the highlights, I recommend a couple of hours – if you’re a fan of history, then you could spend at least half a day here walking through the museum’s halls and immersing yourself in the stories of mythical gods, heroes, and everyday life in ancient Greece.

The National Archaeological Museum has four columns at the entrance, with statues standing on the roof
National Archaeological Museum

15. Plaka Neighbourhood

The Plaka neighbourhood is located at the foot of Acropolis Hill. It’s a gorgeous little district with a charming mix of history and cuteness.

I spend ages wandering around the narrow cobblestone streets, where neoclassical buildings, quaint houses, and traditional tavernas adorned with colourful flowers create a picturesque setting.

You’ll find an abundance of shops filled with unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and traditional Greek products, intertwined with restaurants and cafes. As you wander through the streets, you’ll stumble across numerous ancient sites, including the Tower of the Winds and the Roman Agora, offering a glimpse into Athens’ rich history. 

In Plaka, the past seamlessly blends with the present, it’s clear to see why this is such a popular neighbourhood to explore. 

Insider Tip – If you’re interested in markets, then I recommend heading to neighbouring Monastiraki. Stalls line the streets here every day of the week, but the best day to experience the Monastiraki flea market is on Sunday. You’ll find everything from souvenirs, jewellery, vintage clothing and nick-nack.

The houses in the Plaka neighborhood are adorned in peach hues, with plants and flowers
Plaka Neighbourhood

16. Panathenaic Stadium

This iconic stadium is one of the most famous places in Greece, Athens. Also known as the Kallimarmaro Stadium, it holds a significant place in Olympic history as it hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. 

Take a walk through the enormous marble structure, which was reconstructed on the site of an ancient stadium from the 4th century BC. 

Climb to the top of the horseshoe-shaped arena and along the distinctive rows of white marble seats. From here you’ll get a panoramic view of the stadium. To hear the roar of the crowd during the Panathenaic Games must have been quite something!

Today, the Panathenaic Stadium stands as a timeless symbol of the Olympic spirit. There’s an onsite museum, which showcases memorabilia from past Olympic Games and provides fascinating insights into the history of sports and athletic competitions.

From a top view, the U-shaped Panathenaic Stadium features a marble staircase with a  view of the city
Panathenaic Stadium

17. Hadrian’s Arch

This monumental gateway, located near the Temple of Olympian Zeus, was erected in honour of the Roman Emperor Hadrian during the 2nd century AD. 

As you approach the arch, you’ll be able to see the intricate architectural details. Its Corinthian columns and elaborate friezes adorn its facade and show scenes from Greek mythology. 

Hadrian’s Arch served as a symbolic entrance to the city, marking the boundary between the old and the new. It’s also one of the free ancient Athens landmarks you can get up close to.

Hadrian's Arch showcases architectural details in a brown-white marble, adorned with columns
Hadrian’s Arch

18. Mount Lycabettus

This beacon that looms over Athens stands at 277 metres tall. It offers incredible views and is the best vantage point to look at the sprawling cityscape below. 

You can get up there in two ways: if you’re feeling energetic then hike up or opt for a convenient funicular ride to reach the top. Whichever way you go, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent vista that stretches from the Acropolis to the Saronic Gulf. 

The top of Mount Lycabettus also boasts a charming chapel dedicated to St. George, as well as a restaurant.  

As the sun sets, you’ll get to see the city lights flicker to life. This is a great opportunity to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shot or simply relish in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. 

View from Mount Lycabettus showcases the city view, buildings and trees all under in a clear blue sky
View From Mount Lycabettus

19. Philopappos Hill 

The Philopappos Hill always gets overlooked as the best city view in Athens, but in my opinion, it gave a much better view of the Acropolis than Mount Lycabettus did. I climbed up at sunset, which is a great time to go as the sun makes the Acropolis glow orange!

As you ascend the hill, stop off at the Prison of Socrates. This is where the renowned philosopher was said to have been held. There’s a little information board outside that explains it. 

Continuing your ascent, you’ll reach the pinnacle of the hill. Here you’ll find a ruin called the Philopappos Monument. These ancient ruins pay tribute to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos (what a name!). He was a prince and benefactor of Athens during the Roman era. 

There are quite a few vantage points at the top. Find a rock to perch on and sit and watch the sunset making everything glow a vibrant colour. 

Philopappos Monument, an ancient ruins  featuring marble stones, bricks, and sculptured stone
Philopappos Monument
From Philopappos Hill, you can see the breathtaking view of Athens, the surrounding trees, and the majestic temples
View From Philopappos Hill

20. Kerameikos Cemetery

This archaeological site holds a deep significance as the final resting place of Athenian citizens throughout the centuries. 

Wander around the remnants of this sacred burial ground. It’s a sprawling site that shows the footprints of various buildings and plazas. Explore the intricate gravestones, stelae, and burial monuments that line the pathways, each telling a unique story of the individuals who once walked these streets thousands of years ago.

Beyond its role as a cemetery, Kerameikos also served as a gathering place for civic activities. Look out for the ancient ceremonial gates; the imposing Dipylon Gate, and the enigmatic Sacred Gate, which guarded the entrance to the sacred city. 

There’s an onsite museum that shows a collection of artefacts found here, including a pair of impressive lions that would have once been on the gates. The museum gives details about the rituals and traditions surrounding death in ancient Athens.

Kerameikos cemetery showcases stones and golden bricks, surrounded by houses and trees
Kerameikos Cemetery

21. Plato’s Academy

This revered institution was founded by the renowned philosopher Plato. It served as a centre of intellectual inquiry and philosophical discourse during ancient times. Here you can walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest minds from history. 

Very little remains of the original structures, but today’s building is a testament to Plato’s Academy.  It serves as a place to reflect on the enduring influence of Plato and his disciples, whose ideas continue to shape philosophical thought to this day. 

Although the physical remnants may be sparse, the spirit of intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge still feels alive here.

In front of the Plato's Academy, two statues sit under a clear blue sky
Plato’s Academy

22. Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square, located in the heart of Athens, stands as a vibrant hub and a symbolic centre of the modern city. 

This bustling square is not only a meeting point for locals and tourists but also it’s one of the most important places in Athens. Its name, “Syntagma,” meaning “Constitution” in Greek, reflects its historical role as a gathering place for demonstrations and political rallies. 

Here, you’ll find the Greek Parliament building, the imposing Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the iconic Evzones, the Presidential Guard, with their distinctive uniforms and synchronised changing of the guard ceremony. The square’s grandeur is enhanced by its elegant neoclassical buildings, lively cafes, and high-end boutiques. 

Syntagma Square also serves as a transportation hub, connecting various parts of the city through its metro station and bus stops. 

The Greek Parliament building, in a peach-hue color, stands in Syntagma Square during sunset
Syntagma Square

23. The Greek Parliament

The Greek Parliament is a majestic building located in Syntagma Square. As one of the more famous monuments in Athens, it’s a testament to Greece’s history and solidarity. The building formerly known as the Old Royal Palace, now serves as the seat of the Hellenic Parliament. 

Outside the building, you’ll feel dwarfed by its impressive columns and the sheer size of the place. 

One of the highlights of a visit to the Greek Parliament is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, performed by the Evzones. This happens throughout the day, but if you can I recommend trying to watch the main procession at 11 am on Sunday. 

The Presidential Guards are dressed in their traditional uniforms and showcase their disciplined movements. To watch the guards is a captivating spectacle that has become an iconic symbol of Athens tradition. 

The Evzones Presidential Guards stand in their traditional uniforms
The Evzones Presidental Guards

24. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, situated in front of the Greek Parliament in Syntagma Square, stands as a solemn tribute to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to Greece. 

This is one of the most symbolic monuments in Athens. It serves as a constant reminder of the price of freedom. The tomb is guarded by the distinguished Evzones, the Presidential Guards.

The Evzones stand motionless, dressed in their traditional uniforms, as a symbol of honour and respect. This is the place where you’ll witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, carved into the cream-white brick wall
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Tips for Visiting These Athens, Greece Historical Landmarks

When visiting the historical landmarks in Athens keep these travel tips in mind:

  • Wear comfortable shoes: Exploring the ancient landmarks often involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs. Sometimes the stone and marble can be slippery, so choose shoes with a good grip.
  • Stay hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle with you and stay hydrated, especially during the warm months. It’s important to keep yourself refreshed and energised. Athens has public water fountains, including some in the ruin sites.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: Athens can get quite sunny, and at some of the sun sites there isn’t much in the way of shade. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen to help protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  • Secure day bag: Bring a secure day bag or backpack to keep your belongings safe while you explore. Be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded areas.
  • Bring a camera: Capture the beauty of the landmarks and create lasting memories by bringing a camera or smartphone to take photos.
  • Plan your visit: Research the opening hours, ticket information, and any guided tours available for the landmarks you plan to visit. This will help you make the most of your time in Athens.
  • Follow guidelines and signs: Pay attention to any signage or guidelines provided at the landmarks. They are there for your safety but also to preserve these historical sites.
  • Be respectful: Remember that these landmarks hold cultural and historical significance to the Greeks, so be respectful by not littering, climbing on or touching fragile structures, or defacing surfaces.

Famous Places in Athens, Greece – FAQs

I’ve given you a pretty comprehensive list of Athens’ famous buildings to visit. This next section gives answers to questions that come up when planning a trip.

Where Are the Best Historical Sites in Greece?

Greece is blessed with some of the most stunning ancient landmarks in the world. There are countless ancient landmarks, 18 of them with UNESCO Heritage status. The biggest cluster of individual ruins can be found in Athens. – however, you’ll find plenty scattered around the islands of Greece too.

What Is Athens Famous For?

Athens’ famous sites are rich in history and are considered iconic landmarks. It is renowned for the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, as well as other ancient sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora. Athens is also known for its contributions to philosophy, democracy, and the arts.

What Is the Most Famous Landmark in Greece?

Athens’ most famous building is the Parthenon, located on the Acropolis in Athens. 

This ancient temple is an iconic symbol of Greek architecture and civilization. With its impressive Doric columns and rich historical significance, the Parthenon attracts millions of visitors from around the world, eager to see this millennia-old monument.

What Are the Top 3 Most Famous Athens Landmarks?

The top-three Athens famous places are the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, and the Plaka District. The most famous landmark Athens offers is The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing ancient Greek temples, including the iconic Parthenon. The Acropolis Museum showcases archaeological treasures, while the Plaka District offers charming streets, shops, and tavernas to explore.

When’s the Best Time to Visit These Greek Landmarks in Athens?

The best time to visit famous places in Athens is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. 

The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer months. This allows for a more enjoyable experience while exploring these iconic sites.

Where can I find an Athens, Greece Landmark Map?

This map shows where to find each Athens landmark. Click to download the interactive version

Which of These Landmarks in Athens, Greece Will You Visit Next?

Which of these must-see Athens landmarks are you putting on your itinerary?

In a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures, Greece, proudly showcases its famous Athens landmarks. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis, where the Parthenon reigns supreme, to the immersive Acropolis Museum and enchanting streets of the Plaka District, Athens will transport you to a world of ancient wonders.

In Athens, the past comes alive, leaving you spellbound and craving more. Embark on an unforgettable journey and let these landmarks in Athens, Greece leave an indelible mark on your soul.

I didn’t realise quite how much there was to see in Athens, it feels like I only just scraped the surface of this phenomena city – I can’t wait to go back and see more. Hopefully, my guide has given you lots of inspiration for your own trip, and you fall in love with the city just as much as I did. 

Looking for more reasons to visit Greece? read more inspirational articles here…