Stroll Through The Streets Of Monastiraki

Also known as "Downtown Bargain" (during the Turkish possession era), Monastiraki has maintained its bargaining flair. The picturesque district of Monastiraki is the place to visit with the company of a local host if you want to have an inside taste of the Greek culture. Its numerous streets and alleys are occupied by many shops and street vendors.
What you should not miss out on is the flea market. Every Sunday Monastiraki turns into a cultural hub marrying aspects of modern lifestyle to the old heart and soul of the city which is still alive. A huge variety of products from ceramics, books and vinyls to copper or bronze hearth sets is your for the taking!
Once your shopping experience is complete, it is high time you discovered the open air market where you are bound to run into some tasty food. The wide range of cafes and taverns can satisfy any kind of taste!

See Things From A Psiri Point Of View

Paying a visit to the Psiri district is one of the must things to do in Athens. This district is the home of a series of neoclassical deserted houses which give off vibes of bygone eras. Despite its negative reputation up until the 90s, Psiri is an upcoming district due to the recent restoration of its neoclassical buildings.
This district has transformed into a trendy and hot choice amongst the young Athenians. A local host can expose you to a wide selection of traditional taverns with live Greek music, stylish cafes, trendy bars and affordable stores has attributed to its popularity increase. If you are eager to explore a night out through the eyes of an Athenian in a tourist-free district, Psiri is the choice for you.

Check In At The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

With a local host as your guide, the city is ripe for taking! The archaeological site of the Olympian Zeus is just one of the stops you can make on this trip down history lane. Located in downtown Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was considered the largest temple of Greece during the ancient times.
You will have the chance to see some of the remaining parts of the temple, specifically its columns. This temple was said to have 104 columns. Most of its parts have been lost after a strong earthquake. This site will certainly impress you, even during night hours illuminated by the lights of the city! A little piece of history in the center of Athens which you should not ignore!

Eat Like A Greek

Greek people are known for their hospitality. But, they are also known for their cuisine. Why not combine the company of a local host and a nicely-cooked Greek meal and grant yourself a delightful dinner experience? Or how about a food tour in Athens? There are many locals who would love to open their door to you or take you on a food tour personalized according to your wishes.

Following the Greek traditions, this meal is likely to end with a long talk over some dessert and a cup of coffee. Through this talk you will have the chance to get an insider glimpse of the Greek culture and reality. Sharing a meal with locals is the best way to experience first-hand the local cuisine! This is why it is rightfully included in the top 10 things to do in Athens.

Personalize Your Tour

A trip to Athens is not complete if you do not spend a day by the sea. A local host must be aware of that and this is why he can offer you a memorable drive by the sea. Even there, the city of Athens will not stop surprising you. The ancient temple of Poseidon in Sounio along with a delicious meal by the sea or a nice cup of coffee as the sun sets down is bound to set the bar very high.
From a point on, your host can entertain you based on your preferences. You can pay a visit to the Attica Zoo, go shopping, check out local vineyards or even take up an off-road activity.

Check Out The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier

Greece is a country with rich war history. Over the centuries, Greece has participated in a series of wars in which thousands of soldiers have lost their lives. The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier in downtown Athens was built to commemorate the memory of all these soldiers. Here is why visiting this monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Athens.
The Presidential Guard, also known as Evzones, is assigned of guarding the Tomb round the clock. Evzones are dressed in the traditional Greek uniform which includes a white skirt, white stockings and pom-pom shoes (tsarouhia). Every hour Evzones perform a ceremony which announces the Changing of the Guard. Moreover, on Sundays at 11am the ceremony is even more imposing since the army band joins in. It is a ceremony you would not like to miss.

Get In Touch With The Riverside Ambience

Over the centuries, the city of Athens has been occupied by many nations such Romans or Byzantines. Buildings and monuments which remind of these occupies are found all over the city. A local host can let you in on Athens' ancient secret gems. Top that with a riverside stroll and you got yourself an experience you will never forget.
It may sound odd, but your local host will unfold things you never thought a city like Athens could hide. Prehistoric caves, Roman baths, the Agora and Christian churches are just some of the venues you will encounter during the riverside tour.

Experience The Past Beyond The Present

Acropolis is the synonym of Athens. Taking a tour by a local host at the Acropolis site as well as visiting several other monuments of historical importance stands at the top of the list of interesting and fun things to do in Athens. The Acropolis has been drawing the attention of both locals and tourists for many years now. The overview of the city from the up there is breath-taking. But, the spotlight is on the Parthenon.
The Museum of Acropolis has been a pleasant addition to this tour. Visitors have the chance to view the excavation findings of the site. The Museum occasionally hosts exhibitions or musical performances which will surely entertain you. There is always the possibility of enjoying a delicious meal at the museum restaurant while basking at the Acropolis, even late at night. Let your local host take you by storm!

Capture Athens In Your Camera

You and your local host will experience Athens in a whole different way. Every surface or place is a fair game! From Syntagma Square, formerly known as Palace Square, where many historical events have been hosted through the centuries to trourist-free spots, Athens can be captured in your camera. This personalized experience is bound to be unforgettable since your local host will guide you through the spots where no tourist guide can take you.
Let the city of Athens, its buildings, its monuments and its aura be your photographic canvas. This activity not will imprint on you great memories, but it will also equip you with images which will make everyone envy of your experience!

Cook Yourself A Greek Meal

Almost everyone can visit Athens. But, how many have actually had the chance to cook a Greek meal during their stay in Athens? Well, you can! Under the guidance of an experienced local chef, you can participate in cooking classes which are held by locals who own taverns. Fragrant herbs and spices, fresh shellfish and colorful vegetables are just some of the ingredients you and your chef can use to create traditional Greek specialties such as Greek salad and tzatziki among others.

Your culinary adventure begins as long as you enter the local shop and It ends with eating the delicacies you created, drinking and listening to Greek music. Such activity is one of the most alternative yet fun things to do in Athens.