It's easy to see why Greece checks so many boxes for honeymooners. With a historic capital city, beautiful beaches, dazzling islands, and amazing cuisine, the country continues to rank as one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world.
Even if your honeymoon itinerary ultimately takes you to some of Greece's spectacular islands, newlyweds will likely spend time in the ancient city of Athens. One of the world's oldest cities, Athens is a wonderful destination to explore with all of its fascinating historic sites, unique neighborhoods, terrific restaurants, and world-renowned museums.
To help honeymooners narrow down the options while visiting, we've highlighted the top 30 things to do on your Athens honeymoon. After you've decided on your "can't-miss" experiences, be sure to register for your honeymoon, add the activities to your registry, and start turning that dream honeymoon into a reality.
1. Visit the Acropolis, one of the best known historic sites in the world. You'll climb to the top of this ancient citadel before exploring magnificent structures like the Parthenon and Temple of Athena Nike. You'll also be treated to spectacular views of the city from this vantage point.
2. Take a romantic stroll in the National Gardens, a true oasis set in the heart of bustling Athens.
3. Explore the Plaka neighborhood. Nestled right below the Acropolis, this is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and features beautiful, winding streets and plenty of terrific restaurants, shops, and other interesting detours.
4. Head to the National Archaeological Museum, the largest museum in Greece. The museum boasts a massive collection of ancient Greek art and archaeological treasures (such as the Mask of Agamemnon) and is well worth a visit.
5. Get tickets to an open-air cinema, considered one of the city's great summer traditions. Notable locations include Cine Paris and Aigli Zappeiou, two of the oldest open-air picture houses in Athens.
6. Enjoy a memorable al fresco dining experience with rooftop drinks (ideally with a view of the Acropolis). Three can't-miss spots include 360 Cocktail Bar, Thea Terrace Bar & Restaurant, and the Roof Garden at The Foundry Suites.
7. Walk among treasures at the Acropolis Museum, dedicated to the findings from the Acropolis and its surrounding slopes.
8. Meander among the colorful food stalls at the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora), a vibrant market home to everything from fresh fish and meat to olives, cheeses, and fruits and vegetables.
9. Visit the Odeon of Herod Atticus, an ancient stone theater built around 161 AD. Beautifully restored in the 1950s, the theater now hosts many performances throughout the year (from operas to orchestras to ballets to modern rock bands).
10. Find some treasures at the Monastiraki Flea Market, situated in the heart of Athens near Monastiraki Square. Honeymooners will be able to find just about anything here, particularly antiques, books, jewelry, vintage finds, jewelry, and other quirky items.
11. With Athens being right along the Aegean Sea, there are ample places to hit the beach and enjoy the soft sands and turquoise waters -- which will be essential if you visit during the summer months. Check out Kavouri Beach on the Athenian Riviera and Kalamaki Beach, just a short drive from the city center.
12. Make the upgrade and stay at a relaxing luxury hotel. After all, this is your honeymoon. Hotel Grande Bretagne features a top-notch spa and outdoor swimming pool, while Electra Palace Hotel boasts cozy accommodations and excellent views of the Acropolis.
13. Book an olive oil tasting, where you'll get to sample extra virgin olive oils from different parts of Greece. The tasting even comes with bread, cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.
14. Hop on a Greek ferry, escape the city, and visit the nearby Saronic Islands. Aegina and Hydra are two of our favorites for their beautiful towns, scenery, beaches and archaeological sites.
15. Indulge in Greek delicacies by joining a food tour in Athens. Themes include everything from street food spots, wine tasting, gourmet food experiences, and even day trip culinary tours.
16. Stroll the alleyways and whitewashed houses of Anafiotika, just below the Acropolis. This hidden gem of Athens will make it feel like you're on a Greek island (and not right in the heart of a bustling city).
17. Get your caffeine fix by visiting some of Athens' top coffee shops. On top of excellent java, we love the ambiance at Samba Coffee Roasters, while Little Tree Books & Coffee features a cute bookstore and lovely outdoor seating area.
18. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the top restaurants in Athens. Whether you're in the mood for authentic Greek cuisine or a contemporary Michelin-starred option, or perhaps something in between (hopefully with a view of the Acropolis), the city is packed with memorable dining experiences fit for a honeymoon.
19. Take a day trip to extraordinary historical sites just outside of Athens. The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is considered one of the best preserved ancient theaters in the world. Or couples could choose to explore Delphi, home to the world-famous oracle of Delphi.
20. The Athens cocktail scene is thriving these days, so be sure to sample some of the city's vibrant nightlife. Whether it be a dive bar, jazz club, or a hip hangout like The Clumsies, you can expect to have a fantastic time in one of the greatest cities in the world.
21. Watch the Changing of the Guard (also one of the top free things to do in Athens!). The event takes place every hour in front of the Hellenic Parliament.
22. Go shopping at some of the city's top boutique stores and souvenir shops for keepsakes and handmade gifts. We particularly love some of the gift stores in the Plaka neighborhood featuring local artists and products like Flaneur and Forget Me Not.
23. Visit the Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus, one of the city's best preserved historical sites.
24. Explore the Benaki Museum, home to amazing art and displays focusing on Greek history and culture. It also houses one amazing museum shop featuring great replicas, prints, gifts, and accessories.
25. Visit Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in Athens. On top of amazing views, there's a theater, church, and restaurant to visit. Be sure to visit at sunset for a most magical experience.
26. Go for a run at the Panathenaic Stadium, constructed for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Joggers will want to arrive early as the stadium is only open to runners between 7:30 am and 9:00 am.
27. Learn to cook like a local through an Athens cooking class. At CookinAthens, couples can visit a local market, learn to cook six dishes from scratch, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
28. Dine at a traditional Greek taverna such as The Traditional or Klimataria.
29. Sample some of Athens' best desserts (think baklava, donuts, and fluffy chocolate cake) at spots like Alchemist Cafe, Lukumades, and Koukouvaya.
30. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The structure began being built in the 6th century BC. Today 15 standing columns and 1 fallen one remain.
In case you missed it:
Where to Honeymoon in Greece: Breaking Down the Best Greek Islands by Region