20 free things to do in Athens this summer

If you are traveling to Athens this summer and on a budget, don’t worry, there are plenty of fun sights to see and activities to participate in that are free. Kathimerini Engish Edition has compiled a broad list of free things to do in the city.

Whether you are a history buff, love sightseeing, or simply want to sit back and watch a movie, this list has got you covered.

Ancient Monuments 

• Stop by the Arch of Hadrian. It’s the perfect spot to take cool photos to share with friends and family.
• Watch the ceremonial changing of the guard at the Hellenic Parliament building in Syntagma Square.
• Visit Kallimarmaro! Take a walk around the Kallimarmaro stadium where the first modern Olympic games were held in 1896.
• Go to the Acropolis, one of the world’s most recognizable monuments of the ancient world. Children and young people up to the age of 25, from EU member-states, are entitled to free entry, upon presentation of their ID card or passport for verification of their age and country of origin.

Views

• Walk up Lycabettus Hill, the city’s highest point, to get a beautiful view of Athens.
• Admire the white-colored cottages and winding alleys at Anafiotika in Plaka.
• Philopappos Hill offers great views of the Acropolis and the city. It’s a perfect spot for a hike or a picnic. 

Arts and Activities 

• Exercise in Fokianos sports park: use the free exercise machines in Zappeion Neighborhood. While you are there, consider visiting Zappeion Hall.
• Art Walk in Psiri: Take a stroll through the neighborhood of Psiri and enjoy the street art. 
• Visit the Current Athens website and check out the free art exhibitions around the city.
• Run or cycle for free at the Athens Olympic Sports Complex (OAKA).
• Travel to Glyfada or Kavouri Beach for a day of fun and relaxation by the Aegean Sea. 

Walking Activities and Traditional Greek Sightings

• Stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market. The market is a sight to behold as the street is covered with street vendors selling intriguing items.
• Wander through the historic neighborhood of Plaka whose charming atmosphere is sure to leave you inspired and content.  
• Visit Varvakios Agora to experience a traditional Greek market.
• Walk through Exarchia, a neighborhood known for its edgy aesthetic and anarchist history. The area was the site of the 1973 student uprising against the Greek dictatorship and a vibrant space for free thinking and mutual aid networks.
• Visit the National Garden near Syntagma Square. Take a peaceful walk or simply stand back and admire the greenery. 

Museums and Cultural Centers 

• Visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: Enjoy the park and the free events often held there.
• Benaki Museum of Greek Culture has free admission on Thursday (6 pm to 12 am).
• Watch an outdoor film: participate in the Athens 14th Open air film festival at different locations each week.

Irene Anastasiadis is a summer intern at Kathimerini English Edition and a master’s student at Boston University.

Achilles Frangos is a summer intern at Kathimerini English Edition and a third-year college student at Columbia University.

Source: ekathimerini.com