Top 10 Free Things to Do in Athens (That Won’t Suck)
Photo by: Giovanni
Changing of the Guard
Photo By: "Extractor2000"
Ever think London beefeaters were the end-all ,be-all when it comes to un-amused guards in silly hats? Think again. At the Parliament building in Syntagma Square, the Evzones soldiers (badass Greek army unit) provide a 24-hour guard to what’s known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Here, you will find yourself staring at two grown men standing ice-statue still in seemingly ridiculous costumes. Go ahead, take pictures with them and tickle them to death. If it weren’t for their hourly rotation, we’d absolutely be convinced that these guys aren’t real.
Walk Through Plaka
Photo By: "DarkenSiva"
Lying in the shadow of Athens’ famed Acropolis Mountain, is a village within the city: Plaka. Closed to cars, these busy streets present you with Greek life in its most chaotic form. With restaurants, shops and museums galore, if you don’t find a million things to do in Plaka, there’s something wrong with you. Keep it free by resisting the temptation to buy useless knickknacks that memorialize your trip. If your willpower fades, team up with the other broke-ass travelers wandering around Plaka; maybe solidarity will remind you that you just don’t need that silver-plated decorative spoon.
Tour the Panathenaic Stadium
Photo By: Simon Rooke
Host to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, the Panathenaic Stadium was originally built in the fourth century B.C. The stadium is shrouded in history that cannot be explained without firsthand experience. We recommend a night walk up Arditos Hill to admire the view of the track and stadium in its brightly lit beauty, accompanied by the soundtrack of smooth jazz pumping from a nearby club in the quiet night.
OTP Tip: While the Panathenaic Stadium inaugurated the modern Olympics, the Greeks built another stadium for the 2004 Games hosted in Athens. Just ask people for the “old one” if you find yourself confused when seeking directions.
Museum & Study Center of Greek Theatre
Outdoor Theater in Athens, Photo By: Jorge Lascar
In addition to philosophy, democracy and socially-acceptable orgies, the ancient Greeks are also to thank for the birth of drama… and not the Jersey Shore kind. Theatre originated in a festival meant to honor the god of wine and this free museum presents everything from 18th-century manuscripts to the actual masks worn in the show. Precisely replicated dressing rooms can be found in several winding hallways, so feel free to get your masquerade on.
Go to the Beach
Chios Beach, Photo By: Shadi Khadivi
A day of soaking in the sun can prove quite beneficial for recharging your body’s batteries. While there are dozens of beautiful beaches within the city limits, OTP recommends Alimos Beach, because it’s closest to the heart. Don’t let the proximity to attractions and tourists deter you; Alimos is large enough to stake out your own spot and marvel at the crystal-clear water in peace.
Museum of Popular Musical Instruments
Opa! For all you music fanatics this museum is not to miss. 1,200 different instruments, dating back to 1750, are displayed on three overwhelmingly large floors. The museum features drums, bouzoukis, tambourines, bagpipes, flutes and more, all with fancy Greek names that we dare not attempt to pronounce, or even write. If you’re unsure of how a bouzouki sounds, each instrument is conveniently displayed next to an audio sample of it being played. The museum also hosts concerts at which musicians play the instruments on display.
Navigate Monastiraki
Photo By: Daniel Zollinger
Similar to Plaka, Monastiraki is a vibrant, bustling shopping district that can still be enjoyed when you’re flat broke. The swirling streets present an enjoyable challenge to navigate. Take a break and do some people-watching; everyone from a beggar to a priest shares the district. Be aware that Monastiraki is as crowded as the depths of Hades on Sundays. Unless you’re trying to sweat your weight in water, stay away on god’s day.
War Museum
300 fans unite! The lore of Greek battle has evolved drastically over the years and our favorite museum walks you through the evolution. You will feel a six-pack developing as you meander through everything from ancient swords, those badass Spartan helmets and armor, to world war 2 memorabilia and modern day fighter aircrafts. There’s tons on display for your drooling pleasure.
Walk the Piraeus Port
Photo By: "Dimitris"
The largest port in all of Europe, Piraeus may be the place you explore when you first arrive by boat. We love globetrotters (and sailors in tight pants) so much that simply seeing all these travelers and ships in one place is entertaining. Live music, gift shops and thriving restaurants (seafood, of course) line the vibrant area streets. While most people enter and exit Piraeus in a mad hurry to proceed, take a step back and appreciate the chaotic nature of a major port.
Climb the Hills
Photo By: Yera Ha
While it costs money to climb the Acropolis hill and visit the famous Parthenon temple, Athens offers several other hills to conquer for free. Mars Hill is conveniently next to the Acropolis, which (for all you Bible fanatics) is where Paul the Apostle gave his “Identity of the Unknown God” speech. If your legs can handle more after that excursion, climb Mt. Lycabettus, the highest point of Athens. Its breathtaking sunset view is brilliant.
Priceless memories built from adventures of equal cost are rare in modern travel. Yet the good people of Athens give reason for their notoriously hospitable stereotype and have so much pride in their famed history that they’re willing to share it at no cost.
A mind and body traveller who thrives on recollection and anticipation, all the while decorating the crossroads.
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I LOVE IT !
Yes, the hills, great view, lots of people drinking beers and smoking stuff
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