Walking Tour of Athens: Explore the City in a Day
Athens is a city that blends history, mythology, and modern life. With a population of over 3 million (including the metropolitan areas), it’s both Greece’s capital and its largest city. Everywhere you look, there’s something to see — ancient ruins, bustling squares, colorful markets, and lively neighborhoods.
But with so much packed into one place, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s why a walking tour of Athens is the best way to experience the city. You get a high-level overview of the highlights, then you can go back later and dive deeper into the spots that capture your attention.
During my two-week trip to Greece, I spent a few days in Athens, along with time in Santorini, and ended with a wellness retreat in Agistri. In Athens, I booked a private Athens walking tour with Joe (Dzoremino Kuczek). He was incredible — knowledgeable, personable, and full of insider tips. Not only did he guide me through the city, but he also gave me advice for before, during, and after my visit. I highly recommend using his service for the best experience you will have in Athens.
Here’s everything we covered on our 1-day tour of Athens — and why I recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
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Stops on the Walking Tour
My walking tour of Athens with Joe started right from my hotel in Psiri and wound its way through some of the city’s most iconic spots. We began in Monastiraki Square, explored ancient sites like Hadrian’s Library, the Roman Agora, and the Temple of Hephaestus, then moved on toward Syntagma Square for Parliament and the famous Changing of the Guard.
From there, we strolled along Ermou Street with its historic churches, paused in the National Gardens, and continued past the Panathenaic Stadium, Zappeion, the Arch of Hadrian, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. To finish, we wandered the streets of Plaka and Anafiotika.
Here’s a closer look at each stop along this Athens walking tour:
Monastiraki Square
One of the busiest squares in Athens, filled with street vendors, shops, and energy. It’s the perfect starting point for any tour of Athens. Make sure you hold onto your belongings – it’s a prime place for pickpocketing.
Hadrian’s Library
Built in 132 AD by the Roman emperor Hadrian, this was once a massive complex of books, lecture halls, and gardens. Only ruins remain, but its history still impresses.
Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds
This ancient marketplace dates back to the 1st century BC. The Tower of the Winds, an octagonal clock tower, is one of the world’s oldest weather stations.
Ancient Agora & Temple of Hephaestus
The political and commercial heart of Athens in classical times. The Temple of Hephaestus, overlooking the site, is one of the best-preserved temples in Greece.
Parliament from Syntagma Square
The central square of Athens, home to the Hellenic Parliament. This is where crowds gather for national celebrations and protests alike.
Changing of the Guard
Outside Parliament, the Evzones guards perform their traditional changing ceremony. They stomp their feet to “wake the dead” and remind them Greece is still independent — a moving tradition worth watching.
Ermou Street
Athens’ busiest shopping street, filled with international stores and Greek brands. A great place for people-watching.
Panagia Kapnikarea Church
A tiny medieval church from the 11th century, tucked right into Ermou Street. Stepping inside feels like entering another time.
Holy Metropolitan Church
The main cathedral of Athens, built in the 19th century, combines Byzantine and neoclassical styles.
National Gardens
A beautiful escape from the city’s bustle. Once the royal gardens, today it’s filled with shaded paths, fountains, and ancient ruins. If you are into birdwatching, keep an eye out for the Eurasian Hoopoe and Monk Parakeets.
Panathenaic Stadium (Kalimarmaro)
The only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. I went back the next day and explored in the Stadium, which was a cool step back in history.
Zappeion (Congress & Exhibition Center)
A neoclassical landmark used for events and exhibitions. Its columns and courtyard are as beautiful as the history it holds.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Once the largest temple in Greece, with 120 towering columns. Today, only 16 remain, but they still show the temple’s massive scale. Unfortunately, it was under repair, so the picture isn’t the best.
Arch of Hadrian
A monumental gateway built in 131 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian. It marks the line between ancient and Roman Athens.
Plaka District
A picturesque neighborhood with cobbled streets, lively tavernas, and very cool architecture. It sits below the Acropolis and is filled with restaurants, shops, and beautiful flowers at the right time of year.
Anafiotika
A hidden “village” under the Acropolis, built by islanders from Anafi. Its whitewashed houses feel more like Santorini than Athens.
Tripodon Street
One of the oldest streets in Athens, once lined with monuments to dramatic victories. Today, it’s a charming lane to wander.
Plaka Stairs (Anefani Café)
We ended the tour at a rooftop terrace in Plaka with sweeping views, where you can grab a slice of their famous orange pie. A perfect finish to a long but rewarding day.
Other day trips from Athens
For travelers who prefer structured outings, there are plenty of Cape Sounion tours to choose from that will get you out of the city. Many tours to the Temple of Poseidon include hotel pick-up, guided commentary, and optional sunset stops. There’s also the option to take a day trip to Aegina to see the Temple of Aphaia. If you want to explore the Greek Islands, I recommend checking out some of the boat tours from Athens.
FAQs About an Athens Walking Tour
Final Thoughts on A Walking Tour in Athens
A walking tour of Athens is the best way to experience the city. In just one day, I saw ancient ruins, lively neighborhoods, hidden corners, and modern landmarks — all connected by stories and history.
If you want the best walking tour of Athens, I can’t recommend Joe enough. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the city come alive. Whether you have one day or several, a walking tour will give you the foundation you need to appreciate Athens.
This was the perfect way to spend my three days in Athens during my visit to Greece. If you’re wondering how to tour Athens in one day, start with a walking tour — you’ll see it all.
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