Athens - A Backpacker's Adventure Through the Best of Athens

My journey to Athens wasnt planned. I arrived with just a backpack and a guidebook, but I left with a heart full of history, myth, and unforgettable experiences. If you're hunting for the top things to do in Athens, let me walk you through my accidental adventure.

It all started with the mighty Acropolis. Towering over the city, it's an awe-inspiring sight. Climbing up the hill at sunrise, the Parthenon bathed in golden light, is something Ill never forget. Right below is the Acropolis Museum, where artefacts from centuries past tell stories that no textbook ever could.

The city is best explored slowly, but if you're short on time or want a relaxed introduction, the Hop On Hop Off Athens bus is your best mate. I used it on my second day to map out areas I might have otherwise missed, like Syntagma Square with its changing of the guard, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Every neighbourhood has a unique vibe. Plaka is postcard-perfect with its narrow streets, flowers, and quaint shops. I spent hours just wandering and chatting with locals. Then theres Monastiraki, where ancient ruins sit beside quirky flea markets.

For epic views, I climbed Mount Lycabettus. A bit of a trek, but the panorama is the kind you frame on a wall. And just below lies Kolonaki, a chic district filled with cafes and art galleries.

Of all the things to do in Athens, food is an experience in itself. I survived on gyros, moussaka, and endless amounts of baklava. One night, in a tucked-away tavern, I was invited to dance with locals. It was spontaneous, spirited, and very Greek.

The Hop On Hop Off Athens service deserves another shoutout. With audio guides, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to all major sights, it gave me structure without sacrificing freedom.

My Athens adventure was supposed to be a quick stopover. Instead, it turned into a story I keep telling. From ancient ruins to modern delights, the things to do in Athens are endless. And whether youre a backpacker or a luxury traveller, this city welcomes you like an old friend.