What to do in Athens, Greece

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and the birthplace of Western civilization and democracy. It’s a city where ancient ruins stand next to busy streets, cozy cafés, and lively neighborhoods. From the famous Acropolis to local tavernas serving delicious souvlaki and ouzo, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re on standby or just have a short layover, Athens is a great city to explore as a non-rev traveler. With so much history, culture, and great food packed into one place, even a few hours on the ground can feel like a real adventure. Let’s take a look at how to get there and what to do once you land.

How to non-rev to Athens

Athens International Airport (ATH), officially called Eleftherios Venizelos, is the largest and busiest airport in Greece. It’s a major hub for Aegean Airlines and offers numerous direct connections to key cities around the globe.

Here’s an overview with airlines that fly non-stop to and from the world’s main hubs. Use the StaffTraveler app to find the perfect flight for you.

New York	Emirates, American Airlines, Delta Airlines
Boston	Delta Airlines
Chicago	American Airlines
Toronto	Air Canada, Air Transat
Montreal	Air Canada, Air Transat
London	British Airways, Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet
Paris	Air France, Transavia, Aegean Airlines
Amsterdam	KLM, Transavia
Zurich	SWISS, Aegean Airlines
Brussels	Brussels Airlines, Aegean Airlines
Dubai	Emirates
Doha	Qatar Airways
Abu Dhabi	Etihad Airways

Explore the Acropolis & Parthenon

No trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis, the ancient hill that towers over the city. From nearly every neighborhood, you’ll catch a glimpse of this historic site. At the top, you’ll find the Parthenon, a stunning temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. You’ll also see other incredible ruins like the Erechtheion and the Temple of Nike. Besides the breathtaking views, the entire area is full of ancient history and impressive architecture.

Tip: In peak season, lines can get long so it’s best to book your Acropolis tickets online in advance to save time.

Stroll Through Plaka

Plaka is one of the most popular and charming neighborhoods in Athens, located right below the Acropolis. It’s known for its colorful streets, neoclassical buildings, and cozy cafés and tavernas.

You’ll find souvenir shops, local boutiques, and several small monuments to visit. Even though it’s touristy, it still feels authentic and lively. The narrow streets are perfect for a relaxed walk and offer great views and atmosphere.

Plaka is always busy, and there’s always something to see or do.

Visit the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the political, commercial, and social center of ancient Athens. You’ll find ruins of temples, stoas, and statues, including the well-preserved Temple of Hephaistos.

The Stoa of Attalos has been fully reconstructed and now houses the Agora Museum, which displays artifacts from daily life in ancient Athens.

A key site for understanding Athenian democracy and philosophy.

Visit The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest ancient temples in Greece. Although only a few columns remain standing today, its massive scale gives you an idea of how impressive it once was. Construction began in the 6th century BC but wasn’t completed until Roman times, under Emperor Hadrian. The site is just a short walk from the Acropolis and is easy to combine with other nearby landmarks.

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, but its history goes back to ancient times when it was used for the Panathenaic Games. Today, you can walk on the track, explore the stands, and even stand on the winners’ podium. It’s a great spot for sports fans and history lovers alike.

Monastiraki Flea Market

The Monastiraki Flea Market is one of the best places in Athens for shopping and people-watching. Located near Monastiraki Square, this lively area is full of shops, stalls, and street vendors selling everything from antiques and souvenirs to clothes, jewelry, and handmade goods. It’s a great spot to pick up unique items or just explore the local vibe. The market is busiest on Sundays but open daily.

We highly recommend Athens! Find the seat availability for your non-rev flight to Athens today!

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