Athens Things To See: A City Guide for First-Time Tourists

Athens is a city that is full of history, culture, and picturesque scenery. As the capital of Greece and home to many of the world’s oldest and most iconic monuments, Athens has captivated visitors since ancient times. With its ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and lively culture, Athens is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and a must-see for any traveler.

Overview of Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the largest city in the country. It is located in the region of Attica and was once one of the most powerful cities-states in the Mediterranean region. Athens has been inhabited since the Neolithic times, and its history can be traced back to the Bronze Age. It was the birthplace of democracy and the home of many renowned philosophers and playwrights, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristophanes.

The city’s population is estimated to be around 3.7 million people, making it the 12th largest metropolitan area in Europe. The city is divided into five districts: Central Athens, Northern Athens, Southern Athens, Eastern Athens, and Western Athens.

Athens is known for its beautiful architecture and unique cultural heritage. The city is full of ancient ruins and monuments that are a testament to its rich history. The most famous sites include the Acropolis, which houses the Parthenon; the Temple of Olympian Zeus; and the Ancient Agora. The city also boasts many museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Athens is also home to several parks, including National Garden and Olympic Park, which offer beautiful views of the city. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, with restaurants offering a wide range of traditional Greek dishes.

The Acropolis

The Acropolis is one of the most iconic sites in Athens and a symbol of the city’s ancient past. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop that overlooks the city. It is home to several ancient ruins and monuments, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. These monuments are a testament to the city’s rich history and are considered some of the most important landmarks in Greece.

The Parthenon is located on the highest point of the Acropolis and was built between 447 and 438 BC. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena and is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek architecture. The Erechtheion is another important monument on the Acropolis that dates back to 421 BC. It was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon and is known for its iconic columns that are carved in the shape of female figures known as Caryatids.

The Propylaea is a grand gateway that leads to the Acropolis. Built in 437 BC, it consists of a series of grand staircases and columns that lead up to the Parthenon. The Temple of Athena Nike is located at the entrance to the Acropolis and was dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike. Finally, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient theatre that was built in 161 AD by Herodes Atticus in honor of his wife Regilla.

The Acropolis is open from 8am to 8pm daily, with extended hours during peak season from May to October. Admission is €20 for adults, €10 for children aged 6-17 years old, and free for children under 6 years old.

The Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora is one of the most important sites in Athens and was once the center of public life in ancient times. Located below the Acropolis, it was originally used as a gathering place for merchants, politicians, and philosophers during classical antiquity. It was also home to several important monuments such as the Temple of Hephaestus and Stoa of Attalos.

The Temple of Hephaestus was built between 449-415 BC in honor of the god Hephaestus, who was associated with fire and metalworking. It is one of the best-preserved temples in Greece and stands at 22 meters tall with six columns at its entrance. The Stoa of Attalos is an impressive two-story portico that was built in 159 BC by King Attalos II of Pergamon. It houses an extensive collection of Greek artifacts from various periods.

The Ancient Agora is open from 8am-3pm daily, with extended hours during peak season from April to October. Admission is €12 for adults, €6 for children aged 6-17 years old, and free for children under 6 years old.

National Garden

Located in central Athens, National Garden is a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden was commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838 as a refuge from urban life and has since become a popular spot for leisurely strolls and picnics. The garden features a variety of plants and trees, including cypresses, oaks, and pines, as well as a lake where you can spot ducks and swans. There are also several monuments within the park such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier which honors those who fought in World War II.

National Garden is open from 7am-7pm daily with no admission fee.

Popular Tours In Athens

Athens offers a variety of tours that explore its history, culture, and attractions. Here are two popular tours that are perfect for first-time visitors:

The Acropolis Tour

This tour takes you on a journey through time as you explore one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks – The Acropolis! You’ll get an up close look at some of its most famous monuments such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Your guide will provide you with interesting anecdotes about each site as you wander around this ancient citadel that has been standing for thousands of years. You’ll also get to experience breathtaking views over Athens from up high. The tour lasts around two hours and can be booked here.

Athens Food Tour

This tour takes you on an exploration through some of Athens’ tastiest culinary delights! You’ll get an opportunity to sample traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, spanakopita, dolmadakia, baklava, and more! Along the way your guide will provide interesting facts about Greek cuisine as well as information about local markets and restaurants where you can go to find authentic local delicacies. This tour lasts around four hours and can be booked here.

Final Thoughts On Things To See In Athens

Athens is truly a city like no other – full of history, culture, beauty, and delicious food! With its iconic monuments such as The Acropolis and Ancient Agora, stunning parks like National Garden, lively nightlife scene, and variety of culinary offerings, it’s no wonder why so many people have fallen in love with this amazing city! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll through nature or an exciting adventure through some of Europe’s oldest ruins – Athens has something for everyone!