Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by Tia
In this article, I will help you Explore Athens off the beaten path in a way you never have before!
Because whilst in Athens, it is often so easy to stick to the big sights as there is literally history and beauty everywhere you look.
But Athens is far more complex, mysterious and incredible than that.
And In this article, we are going deep into the heart of the city; with a list of 24 local, and unique things to do in Athens to blow your socks off.
So flip the coin and keep reading to experience something different, Athens off the beaten path!
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Table of Contents
24 Ways To Explore Athens Off The Beaten Path
1. Dance Tango In The Streets Of Athens
What better way to explore Athens off the beaten path than to join the locals in a street party right?
Every Monday night, in the pedestrian street between Thiseio and Kerameikos metro stations, ‘’Street Dancing Milonga’’ draws in an impressive crowd. Expect to find dancers from all over the city, tango lovers, and passersby.
Equipped with a sound system, this street event proves that dance and music are really special. They are the bridge that brings together people from all walks of life, ethnicities, and sexes. This is a night you will remember!
Address: Pireos & Ermou, Athina 105 53, Greece ‘’Street Dancing Milonga’’
Weather permitting – every Monday from 10 pm till the early hours!
2. Indulge In A Traditional Hamam In The Heart Of Athens
Nothing is more relaxing on holiday than a good spa day, and the beautiful Al Hamam in Plaka, Athens ticks all the right boxes.
This traditional bathhouse is tiny in comparison (8 people max) and retains all the characteristics of an original bathhouse. A long soak in the steaming Hamam, a body exfoliation, a foamy body/hair wash with natural olive oil soap, and of course, a relaxing massage.
A day well spent in Athens to provide relief on aching limbs from all the walking and exploring you are bound to do!
With prices starting from only 25 euros and special offers for couples, this spa day can be enjoyed by everyone.
Address: Al Hamam Athens Address: Tripodon 16, Athina 105 58, Greece.
3. Have A Picnic At Diomidis Botanical Gardens
A short 8 kilometers away from Athens City center lies an 18-hectare nature oasis – the Diomidis Botanical Gardens.
Diomidis boasts an impressive amount of exotic plants and flowers – over 500 species in fact from all over the world!
Go on little walks and hikes on the premises and discover medicinal, ornamental, and Aromatic plants.
When you get hungry, enjoy your packed lunch in one of the many picnic tables set in this little nature’s paradise.
An excellent way to spend the day – to reconnect, meditate and hike!
Nature and plant enthusiasts will love to explore flowers and exotic plants from Greece and the rest of the world!
Address: Iera Odos 403, Chaidari 124 61, Greece
4. Watch An Outdoor Cinema Under The Acropolis
In Athens, outdoor cinemas are plentiful and extremely popular!
The Thision open-air cinema has been around since 1935 and has the added benefit of being right beneath the Acropolis.
I can think of little else more beautiful than watching a movie and gazing up at the staggering Acropolis above you.
And seeing as not a lot of tourists know about this, it deserves a place in my Athens off the Beaten Path list!
Enjoy a foreign film in its original language (we do not translate foreign movies, only Greek subtitles at the bottom).
Munch on the famous spoon sweets of Greece (the walnut, apricot, and watermelon are to die for).
Alternatively, Sip on some wine or Tsipouro, (a traditional strong Greek spirit)
Address: Apostolou Pavlou 7, Athina 118 51, Greece
Open from May through to October- weather permitting.
Ticket Prices: Monday – Wednesday 6 euros. Thursday – Sunday 8 euros
5. Stroll The Cycladic Anafiotika Neighborhood
You are bound to do a lot of walking in Athens. The city is beautiful, historical, and majestic! But this little neighborhood is special too.
Located in the heart of the center of Athens, Anafiotika is a small walk from the Acropolis. If you are walking from Monastiraki you will find it instantly!
History Tip: The streets in this neighborhood are occupied by Cycladic islanders; who came to Athens to build Kind Otto’s Palance in 1841. Here, the island influences are very evident!
They called this area ‘’Anafiotika’’ – Little Anafi- and built the neighborhood to resemble their beloved Cycladic island’s origins.
Small cubic whitewashed houses with flat roofs, with bright and colorful painted doors… island decorations, lazy wandering cats…its so pretty!
You will see narrow alleyways and magenta cascading bougainvillea too, and for a minute you will think you are on the island of Santorini.
2 gorgeous Byzantine churches also await you to visit and at the end of the road; and a majestic viewpoint of Lykabettus with views of all the city below.
Anafiotika is an island escape right beneath the Acropolis.
Address: Anafiotika, Athens 105 58, Greece
6. Attend A Pool Party Under The Stars
Usually, swimming at the Hilton Pool as an outside guest will set you back 25 euros on a weekday and a staggering 45 euros on the weekend.
And even that is a price some are willing to pay when stuck in the city heat of the summer.
However, the Hilton Hotel is now opening its doors at night too, particularly on Thursdays and Fridays.
It offers a night swim experience, accompanied by DJs and cocktails from 9 pm until 1 am.
The 25 m long pool becomes the place to be with your friends on a hot summer night in the heart of Athens.
Address: Hilton Athens, Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 46, Athina 115 28, Greece
Entrance: 10 euros
7. Have drinks with the best view of the Acropolis
You can’t go to Athens and skip the Acropolis; you just can’t!
After seeing and exploring it in all its majestic and historic excellence, you should also photograph it at its best- and that’s from up high!
The 360 Hotel Athens rooftop bar offers the best views of the world-famous Acropolis.
Grab a table, order a snack, coffee, or drink, and marvel at this amazing creation that is the epitome of all things Greek.
Make sure you have your camera with you- the views are fantastic, unobstructed, and awe-inspiring.
360 Degrees Hotel Athens Address: , Pl. Monastirakiou, Athina 105 52, Greece
8. Shop antiques At Monastiraki Flea Market
Flea market lovers rejoice! Monastiraki Flea market is not to be missed. It’s got everything you could imagine; from furniture, rugs, and bedsheets, to war memorabilia!
You will also find old cameras, vintage teacups, and household items. Souvenirs are also plentiful, along with natural leather sandals and bags, sunglasses, and everything in between!
You will need a good 1-2 hours or more to look through everything, and even if you don’t end up buying anything you will no doubt love snooping around to what other people store in their attics.
Monastiraki Flea Market Address: Ifestou 2, Athina 105 55, Greece
Tip: Keep your belongings safe from pickpocketers as it is often packed, especially on Sundays!
9. Take Pictures At The Lamp Lit Pittaki Street
When those 150+ lights ignite, Pittaki Street is instantly transformed into a hip and happy area in Psyri! It’s gorgeous, with boutique shops, cafes, and one of the most Instagramable decorations in all of Athens!
History Tip: In 2012, two nonprofit organizations joined forces to turn the previously grim and dirty alley of Pittaki Street into an Athens gem. And they did just that!
The alley was filled with volunteers who cleaned and painted the abbey in happy pastel colors! It was such a cool event, the whole community coming together like that!
The Locals donated furniture and over 150 unused lights of all kinds to represent the multicultural identity of Athens! You will see Chinese lanterns, metal lamps, 40”s era floral lamps, and so on.
Does it deserve a spot in this Athens off-the-beaten-path guide? I certainly think so!
Address: 4, Pittaki 14, Athina 105 54, Greece
10. Marvel At The ‘’Dromeas’’ Sculpture
”Dromeas” is a stunning sculpture of a running man in motion made out of thousands of pieces of sharp glass. This blurred shape of a runner is the work of Costas Varotsos.
It is a piece of exquisite contemporary art, that is best admired during the day.
History Tip: This is a project that started in 1988 and in the typical Greek fashion, wasn’t completed until 1994.
Address: Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 61, Athina 115 21, Greece (Opposite the Hilton Hotel)
11. Visit The Varvakeios Food Market- The oldest Food Market in Athens
The Varvakeios Laiki Agora which translates to the Varvakeios Food Market is the most famed food market in Athens.
Athenians love this market; the produce sold is so much fresher than at supermarkets and the prices are cheaper too!
Becoming one with the locals will feel like you are experiencing Athens off the beaten path too!
Endless parallel rows of produce with every row being assigned to a specific type of food. And of course, well-dressed salespeople dressed in white and meat and fish stalls that are stacked to perfection!
Tip: Head over to the spices section and find out all about the spices used in of the best cuisines in the world. Greek Food is simply out of this world!
Buy nuts and traditional Greek herbs to take home, and when you are finished, finish off with a traditional Greek meal in one of the many restaurants on site.
History Tip: Varvakeios Food Market has been running successfully for over 130 years and it shows no signs of stopping!
Varvakeios Food Market Athens: Open daily from 8 am-6 pm. Closed on Sundays!
Address: Athinas 42, Athina 105 51, Greece
12. Hike Mount Lycabettus At Sunset
Mount Lycabettus simply begs to be admired from the top. Towering above the Acropolis at 277 meters it can be seen literally from everywhere in Athens.
It provides the highest and most perfect 360 views of all of Athens!
By hiking it at sunset, you get to watch the city bathe in magnificent orange light. At the top of Lycabettus Hill, a viewing platform will help you pick different viewing points.
To the south, you will see the Acropolis in all its glory, the Syntagma Square, the aristocratic Kolonaki, and the beautiful Parthenon. To your north, the Lofos Strefi – one of the seven hills of Athens as well as several museums.
Lastly to your West, Omonoia, Thisseio, and Monastiraki.
The Climb takes about an hour so time your hike to enjoy the sunset!
Make sure you stop and appreciate the flora, fauna, and bird species that call Mount Lycabettus their home.
Also, admire the native tortoises which grow huge and live up to 100 years that are present everywhere!
Nature, the golden sunset, and incredible city views are yet another beautiful way to enjoy Athens off the beaten path
Address: Athens 114 71, Greece
If you are experiencing mobility issues or don’t want to hike, I have a solution! The Cable Car Athens costs 5 Euros for a single ride up and only 7 for a round trip.
For Cable Car Athens information click here
13. Learn to Cook like a Greek
Not falling in love with Greek cuisine is impossible. So imagine walking away from your trip with the ability to recreate heavenly dishes for your guests at home!
Learning to cook like a Greek is a valuable skill; our cuisine is one of the best in the world! I adore spending time in the kitchen so for me, this Athens off-the-beaten-path activity is an absolute must!
In this fantastic Athens cooking class in the Greek Kitchen, you get an added benefit. Experiencing the Central Food market through a local’s eye, where you will be taken to pick up supplies! You then get back to the kitchen with your fresh produce and begin the fascinating culinary journey.
In the next 2-3 hours, you will learn how to make various beloved Greek dishes. Think of mezes like Fava puree to scrumptious desserts like the finger-licking orange pie.
You will learn all about the history of Greek gastronomy, from a real Greek cook! Lastly, you’ll feast on your creations with good conversation, wine, and newfound skills you will no doubt be itching to show off at home
This is an Athens cooking class that is not to be missed.
Address: Athens, Athinas 36, Athina 105 51, Greece
Duration: 4 hrs. Open from Mon-Sat 9:30-3:00. Price: 59 euros per adult
14. Take a day trip to a Greek island -Aegina Island
There are a few Greek islands near Athens, but Aegina is magical.
It’s a quaint, colorful, and peaceful island, that offers just enough to see, to make a day trip special.
It has mild winters and year-round tourism so Aegina can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Of course, it flourishes in the spring and summer.
You can get there by ferry from Piraeus Port, it takes approximately one hour only!
Once there, head to the many beautiful beaches of Agia Marina and enjoy the crystal-clear water!
Then, make sure you explore the island on foot; admire the classic Greek architecture and fishing villages, and most importantly the ancient temple of Aphaea.
This temple is a true gem on the island and one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Greece.
Lastly, choose a beachfront restaurant, indulge in fresh seafood, and in the evening, take your ferry back to Athens. What a blissful day!
Address: Egina 180 10, Greece
Ferry schedule: compare ferry companies and prices on this site
15. Live the jet set life at Balux Seaside – Glifada
You don’t need to be on an island to enjoy the sea in Greece and this fact is unknown to many travelers! As a result, this deserves a spot in this Athens off-the-beaten-path guide!
The largest of Athens’s southern suburbs, Glifada is an aristocratic, beautiful area of Greece. It is also famed for its boutique shopping, art galleries, and gorgeous seaside
So head over to Glifada, and make your way to the beach!
Specifically, Asteras Glifada beach, to enjoy the clear waters, Mediterranean sun, exquisite food, and refreshing cocktails. Where do you ask?
Well at my favorite bar and restaurant of the Asteras Complex; Balux Seaside.
In the Asteras Glifada Complex, you will find a fully organized beach that hosts up to 5000 people. There are sunbeds and umbrellas, a kid’s playground, and lockers!
Additionally, there are changing rooms, a beach volleyball, and Beach soccer yards. Spent a relaxing day on the beach or the Balux Pool Seaside if you prefer a pool
What to eat at Balux Seaside
Choose one of the indoor or outdoor seating options of the utterly gorgeous Balux Cafe restaurant and Make sure you order sushi or one of my house specials favorites: Caramelized Chicken Risotto with saffron, balsamic glaze, and melted parmesan.
Cocktails are pretty exquisite here too; with a variety of options, although nothing beats their Cucumber Smash gin cocktail on a hot summer’s day!
Address: Leof. Posidonos 58, Glifada 166 74, Greece
16. Spend a leisurely day golfing – Athens off the beaten path
Pro of beginner, you better Practice your golf skills! Nothing screams a more leisurely holiday than a game of golf in the vast grounds of Glyfada Golf Club Athens.
With Splendid scenery and views, you will love your time on this 18-hole golf course that once housed the World Cup Tournament.
Address: Kon/nou Karamanli, Glifada 166 10, Greece
Tel: +30 21 0894 6459. Open daily 10 am-2 pm
17. Discover Street and Modern Art at Psyrri
Psyrri, once a crime-ridden neighborhood is now a hip and trendy colorful neighborhood bursting at the seams with art galleries and street art.
It is also a great neighborhood to explore Athens off the beaten path.
Take an afternoon stroll through the streets of Psyrri and you will discover large and colorful murals and exciting street art.
Look for the works of Alexandros Vamoulakis – one of the pioneer street artists in Athens and take plenty of photos.
Then take a break with a refreshing iced Greek Coffee (frappe) in one of the hip cafes of the area and make your way down to the AD art gallery.
This hip gallery features works from over 22 young artists of Greek and International descent that richly contribute to the modern art scene of Athens and the world.
AD Art Gallery Address: Pallados 3, Athina 105 54, Greece
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday 12-9 PM Saturday – 12-4 PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
18. See The First Computer Ever Made In Greece – Athens off the beaten path
Housed under the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, hidden among impressive pieces of Greek History, lies section no 38; the mechanism museum.
Here, amongst the 35.000 antiquities in the collection, you can observe the first computer ever invented in Greece!
There are also other fascinating gadgets- the first instruments used in medicine, large bronze statues, the first metal bed frames, and more.
A nontraditional museum visit, housed under a traditional Archaeological Museum! Definitely a fascinating part of your Greek travels.
Address: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
19. Enjoy The Outdoor Thermal Springs At Lake Vouliagmeni
Just past the Glyfada neighborhood, you will find Lake Vouliagmeni.
The natural thermal lake is mixed with seawater and surrounded beautifully by a small beach area with a cliff, and a wooden deck with chaise longues to relax in.
You can easily spend the day there, as there is also a cafe and restaurant on site.
It maintains a steady 22-30 Degrees throughout the year, and the waters are famous for their therapeutic properties.
Many people go there for all sorts of difficulties – dermatological, muscular, skeletal, and gynecological.
History Tip: Lake Vouliagmeni is part of the Natura 2000 network and is named as an Outstanding Site of Natural Beauty by the Ministry of Culture.
Address: Admission Fee:
20. Attend A Big fat Greek Party at Bouzoukia
You haven’t been to a Greek party if you haven’t been to a Bouzoukia!
Every season, Greek famous singers draw huge crowds at the bouzoukia, which are essentially huge nightclub venues. They are always packed to the brim, and they start late, but they also finish well into the wee hours. 5-6 am to be exact!
The dress code is glam to the max, and expect to pay a minimum of 60-100 euros per person.
But if you want to explore Athens off the beaten path and become one with the locals… Bouzoukia is THE place to be.
So grab your friends, wear your best, and be ready to experience Athens, like never before!
Tip: Contrary to popular belief, nowadays Greeks throw buckets of flowers instead of breaking plates! Avoid those, because they cost a bomb!
21. Savor Local Greek Delicacies
In Greece and Cyprus, we eat…everything! Some may shock some, and make others squirm.
But you should go ahead and give it a go because many of the local delicacies are delicious.
For example ”kefalaki” – is a whole, intact lamb head, which we eat boiled with lemon or roasted in the oven.
Another example is ”saligkaria” – which are snails. We cook the small ones in vinegar and the larger ones in a rich tomato sauce!
Next up, is ”Kokoretsi” which is lamb innards wrapped in entrails and roasted until luscious brown over the spit.
If you can’t seem to find the courage to stomach these, then try something simple: Greek frape. Greek frape is the famous Greek coffee, which is served iced, shaken, and with milk or without.
22. Enjoy A Classy Night At The Opera
A classy opera affair is always a wonderful idea.
So head on to the Herodes Atticus open theater, which is at the base of the Acropolis, and enjoy a performance of Puccini or Bizet under the gorgeous starry sky.
Absolute bliss!
23. Go stargazing at the observatory
Established in 1842. the Observatory of Athens is a wonderful way to explore Athens off the beaten path.
Located beautifully on the Hill of the Nymphs, it is home to the original 1902 Doridis refracting telescope which still brings the heavens close to us.
So take some time to take in the majesty of the night skies on an observatory tour.
24. Get Lost With The Scents Of The Spice Market
Along Evripidou Street, you will find dozens of spice merchants, and other Greek house artifacts like wine jugs, and oil barrels.
The smells in the neighborhood are insane, with Greek oregano overpowering everything else! And if you haven’t tried it, it’s unlike any other oregano you will ever taste!
Bonus points go for all the people watching you will do, as it is, of course, packed with locals looking for the best ingredients.
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Tia x
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