Visiting Athens and looking for things to do that won’t bust your travel budget? This bustling capital has plenty to offer that is completely free, and guaranteed not to break the bank.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art museum enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up some local culture, here are some of the top 8 free things to do in Athens, Greece.
Immerse yourself in culture at the Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC) is a one-stop-shop for art, culture, and community—all accessible for free. Join a free guided tour (they offer them in English) and uncover the backstory behind the SNFCC’s impressive and sustainable design, which blends architectural innovation with environmental consciousness.
Beyond its impressive architecture, the SNFCC offers a host of cultural activities, including browsing centuries-spanning collections at the National Library of Greece and participating in free outdoor sessions of yoga, tai chi, Pilates, or aerobics.
The grounds are also perfect for a walk or a cycle around. And make sure you also check their website before you go: the SNFCC hosts an array of events throughout the year, (also mostly free) from concerts to outdoor movie screenings and exhibitions.
Get some history at the First Cemetery of Athens
Nestled in the often-overlooked posh area of Mets, the First Cemetery of Athens is not on most tourists’ to-see list, but is well worth a visit.
This cemetery serves as the final resting place for some of the most notable Greeks and philhellenes– like writer Giorgos Seferis, actress and politician Melina Mercouri, and archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann–and is crowded with ornate tombs, gravestones, and neoclassical sculptures to heroes or icons of Greek culture.
Insider tip: Lined with Cypress and palm trees, the First Cemetery of Athens is still a quiet resting place, so keep in mind there may be funerals scheduled if you visit in the morning hours.
Check out some free museums
Several excellent museums are free all year round, and an excellent chance to buff up on some specific aspects of Greek history.
- Museum of the Athens-Piraeus Electric Railways: All aboard a trip through history. Transport lovers will love this detailed nerd-fantasy museum, featuring exhibits detailing the evolution of the city’s electric railway system.
- Museum of Greek Popular Instruments: Dive into the rich musical heritage of Greece at the Museum of Greek Popular Instruments, showcasing a diverse collection of bouzoukia, gaïda, and more. Check out their website for chances to also see free concerts.
- Melina Merkouri Cultural Centre: Pay homage to the legacy of Melina Merkouri, a beloved Greek actress and politician, at this cultural center dedicated to promoting the arts, education, and cultural exchange.
- Museum of Folk Art & Tradition: Immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of Greek folk art and tradition at this museum, which preserves and celebrates the cultural heritage of Greece through a captivating collection of artifacts and exhibits. Insider tip: This is one of the best places to see traditional Greek folk costumes.
Admire the Changing of the Guard
Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of the Greek Parliament building on Syntagma Square.
Dressed in elaborate traditional attire complete with pom-pom-topped shoes, the Evzones stand stock-still until the change, which they conduct with big ceremonial kick-steps, making it a captivating spectacle to behold. The changing of the guard takes place every hour.
Take a stroll in the National Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the National Gardens. Located near the Parliament building, this tranquil oasis offers a peaceful retreat amidst Athens’ urban landscape.
Traveling with little ones? There is a small zoo and a vast playground inside the National Gardens, making this a great spot to visit with kids.
Enjoy the sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Hike up Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views of Athens that stretch from the mountains all the way to the Aegean Sea, and are especially stunning during sunset. If you settle yourself at the church at the top you get a 360 degree view of the Athens sprawl that is guaranteed to take your breath away, (and is perfect for a bit of a photoshoot).
Pack a snack or bring a drink and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a magical glow over the city below.
Wander through Plaka and Anafiotika
Lose yourself in the narrow streets of Plaka, one of Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Meander past charming neoclassical buildings, quaint cafes, and souvenir shops while soaking up the neighborhood’s elevated bohemian vibe.
Make sure you also stroll through the charming village-like neighborhood of Anafiotika, which is like stepping onto a Greek island without any of the travel.
Go for a beach day along the coast
Athens is a coastal city, which means that it is lined with beaches. Many of the beaches near Athens are organized with sun beds and beach bars, but there are still plenty that are free with just sea, sand, and a chance to get some sun.
Some of our favorite free beaches in Athens are:
- Edem Beach: This is the first stop along the coast if you take the tram, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to easily relax and unwind. It has sandy beaches, plenty of space to spread out a towel, and calm waters for a swim.
- Limanakia Beach: This beach in Vouliagmeni enchants beachgoers with its secluded coves and dramatic rock formations, providing an idyllic setting for cliff clambering and jumping.
- Kavouri Beach: This spot is known for white sands and shallow, calm waters, making it perfect for families seeking a peaceful day by the sea amidst gorgeous mediterranean backdrops.
Take advantage of these free activities to explore the bustling tapestry of Athens without spending a single euro, making for an unforgettable–and extremely affordable– adventure in the Greek capital.