Welcome to Athens, Greece

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world, and is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in the Mediterranean. It is the capital of Greece and one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with a rich history and plenty to explore. Home to some of the oldest monuments in the world, Athens is a city of culture, art, and beauty. It’s no surprise that millions of visitors come to Athens every year to explore its ancient wonders and experience a taste of Greek culture.

Athens is situated on the southern end of the Attica peninsula, looking out onto the Aegean Sea. It is home to over 3 million people and is the largest city in Greece. The city is known for its iconic ancient monuments such as the Parthenon, Acropolis, and Temple of Olympian Zeus. It is also home to a thriving art scene, with world-renowned museums such as the Benaki Museum and National Archaeological Museum. Furthermore, Athens has a variety of lively shopping districts, nightlife scenes, and delicious restaurants.

In recent years, Athens has seen a surge in popularity as a tourist destination. In fact, it was named as one of the top travel destinations in 2018 by Lonely Planet. Visitors flock to Athens for its ancient monuments, but also for its vibrant culture and unique experiences. From old-world charm to modern innovation, Athens has something for everyone.

A Guide To The Best Places In Athens

Athens is a city filled with incredible sites and attractions. From ancient ruins to modern hotspots, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to visit in Athens.

The Acropolis and Parthenon

The Acropolis and Parthenon are two of the most iconic symbols of Athens. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the city, the Acropolis dates back to 447 BC and was once a fortified citadel. It is home to several ancient monuments including the world-famous Parthenon, an impressive marble temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. The Parthenon is the most recognizable structure in Athens and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Europe. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Acropolis and experience a true taste of ancient Greece.

The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum houses some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. This impressive museum offers visitors a glimpse into the world of classical Greece, with an extensive collection of artifacts from all across the country. The museum showcases sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and even ancient weapons from Greek culture. It is also home to one of the most famous artifacts from ancient Greece: the Mask of Agamemnon.

The Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is another must-see in Athens. This museum hosts an extensive collection of Greek art and artifacts from all periods of Greek history. It offers visitors an immersive experience into Greek culture, with everything from Byzantine art to traditional costumes on display. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase modern Greek art, making it a great place to explore the city’s art scene.

Plaka

Plaka is a historic neighborhood located at the foot of the Acropolis hill. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens and has been inhabited since antiquity. The area is known for its cobblestone streets and neoclassical buildings, making it one of the city’s most picturesque areas. Plaka is also filled with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops that are perfect for exploring on a leisurely stroll through town.

Kerameikos

Kerameikos is an ancient cemetery located near the Plaka neighborhood. It was once used as an ancient cemetery during classical times and is now home to some impressive archaeological sites such as monuments and tombs. Visitors can explore these sites and learn more about ancient Greek burial customs. The cemetery also has several stunning statues on display that depict scenes from Greek mythology.

Monastiraki

Monastiraki is a lively neighborhood located in central Athens. It is known for its vibrant street life, with plenty of cafes, shops, and restaurants for visitors to explore. It’s also home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as the Ancient Agora and Hadrian’s Library. Monastiraki is also known for its bustling flea market where visitors can find anything from vintage clothing to traditional Greek souvenirs.

Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill is one of the highest points in Athens and offers stunning views of the city below. The hill is home to a small chapel dedicated to Saint George as well as hiking trails for visitors who want to explore the area. At night, Lycabettus Hill transforms into a popular spot for locals and visitors alike who come here to watch the sunset or take in views of the twinkling city lights below.

The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

The Temple Of Olympian Zeus is one of Athens’ most iconic landmarks. Built in honor of Zeus, king of gods, it was considered one of the largest temples in all of Greece when it was completed in 131 AD. Today it stands as a reminder of Ancient Greece’s grandeur and power. Visitors can explore this impressive temple and admire its impressive columns and statues that still stand today.

Popular Tours In Athens

Athens offers plenty of interesting tours for visitors wanting to explore the city’s culture and history in more depth. Here are two popular tours that offer an immersive experience into life in Ancient Greece:

Half Day Tour Of The Acropolis And Ancient Agora

This half-day tour offers a comprehensive look at two of Athens’ most iconic sites: The Acropolis and Ancient Agora. Visitors will explore these two sites with an expert guide who will provide insight into their history and importance in Ancient Greece. The tour also includes an exploration of other nearby sites such as Temple of Hephaestus and Kerameikos Cemetery, providing a full experience into Greek culture and history. Book this half-day tour here.

Full Day Tour Of The Acropolis Museum And Plaka Neighborhood

This full-day tour offers an immersive experience into Athens’ culture and history with visits to two important sites: The Acropolis Museum and Plaka neighborhood. Visitors will explore these two sites with an expert guide who will provide insight into their history and importance in Ancient Greece. The tour also includes visits to other nearby sites such as Ancient Agora, Benaki Museum, and Lycabettus Hill for a full experience into Athenian life throughout time. Book this full-day tour here.

Conclusion

Athens is an incredible city with plenty to explore and experience. From iconic monuments such as The Acropolis and Parthenon to vibrant neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or just want to soak up some history, Athens has it all! And if you want to get a deeper look into Athenian life, there are plenty of tours available that offer a comprehensive look into this vibrant city’s culture and history. So what are you waiting for? Come explore all that Athens has to offer!