October is a wonderful time to visit Athens. The intense summer heat has eased, the city is less crowded and the cooler temperatures make it much more enjoyable to explore on foot. From ancient monuments and world-class museums to autumn food, cultural events and OXI Day celebrations, Athens offers plenty to discover throughout the month.
Here are some of the best things to do in Athens in October.
Explore the Acropolis
October is an excellent time to visit the Acropolis. With milder temperatures than during the summer months, you can explore the Parthenon and surrounding archaeological sites without the intense midday heat.
Afterwards, walk through Plaka and Anafiotika, two of Athens’ most atmospheric neighbourhoods, and stop for a coffee or lunch at one of the many cafés and tavernas.
Visit Athens’ Museums
October is also a great month to explore Athens’ museums, particularly if you happen to catch a cooler or rainy day.
The Acropolis Museum is an obvious choice, with its impressive collection of artefacts from the Acropolis. The National Archaeological Museum is another must-visit, housing one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Greek art and antiquities.
For something different, visit the Museum of Cycladic Art or the Benaki Museum to discover other aspects of Greek history, art and culture.
Walk Through the National Garden
October’s cooler weather is perfect for enjoying Athens’ green spaces. Take a leisurely walk through the National Garden, located right next to Syntagma Square, or head up Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views over the city.
For one of the best walks in Athens, explore Philopappou Hill around sunset. The paths offer beautiful views of the Acropolis and the city, particularly as the evening light begins to change.
Enjoy the Athenian Riviera
October doesn’t necessarily mean the end of outdoor life by the sea. On warm, sunny days, head towards the Athenian Riviera for a seaside walk, lunch overlooking the water or a relaxed afternoon by the coast.
You can also continue south to Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon. Watching the sunset from this dramatic archaeological site is one of the most memorable experiences within easy reach of Athens.
Discover Athens’ Neighbourhoods
October is a great month to experience Athens beyond its famous landmarks.
Explore the cafés and restaurants of Pangrati, wander around the streets of Koukaki, browse independent shops in Monastiraki or discover the lively atmosphere of Psyrri.
The cooler evenings are particularly enjoyable for sitting outside at a local restaurant or enjoying a drink in one of the city’s many neighbourhoods.
Taste the Flavours of Autumn
Autumn brings a new selection of seasonal ingredients to Athens’ restaurants and markets. Look out for pomegranates, figs, grapes, quinces and chestnuts, alongside traditional Greek dishes that are particularly comforting as the weather cools.
October is also a good time to explore Greek wine. Visit a wine bar in Athens or take a short trip to a winery in Attica to discover some of Greece’s native grape varieties.
Experience OXI Day
One of the most important dates in October is 28 October — OXI Day.
The national holiday commemorates Greece’s refusal of the Italian ultimatum in 1940, which marked the country’s entry into the Second World War.
In Athens, the day is marked by a large military parade, while student parades take place in communities across Greece. Greek flags fill the streets, creating a particularly memorable atmosphere for visitors.
If you are in Athens around 28 October, keep in mind that it is a public holiday and some businesses, museums and services may operate on different schedules.
