Greece’s capital, Thessaloniki, is one of the most visited cities in all of Europe. The Acropolis, one of the most recognizable structures in the world, is one of the city’s many historical and cultural landmarks. In the middle of the city sits a hill known as the Acropolis of Athens. The Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion are just a few of the historic buildings that can be found there. The Acropolis is regarded as the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy.
Outdoor activities
Athens is renowned for its picturesque surroundings and outdoor pursuits. We'll look at two outdoor pursuits in this section: climbing Mount Lycabettus and touring the Ancient Agora.
Climb Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus is a hill in the heart of Athens. The city’s highest point, it provides breathtaking vistas of the surroundings. Tourists have two options for reaching the hill’s summit: they can trek there in about 30 minutes or ride a cable car. Visitors can take in expansive views of Athens and the surrounding countryside once they reach the summit.
Exploring the Ancient Agora
In the center of Athens stands the archaeological site known as the Ancient Agora. The Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos are just a couple of the several historic buildings that can be found in this area, which was once the hub of political and commercial activity in ancient Athens. Learn more about the history and culture of the ancient Greeks by exploring the site.
Must See Places
If you're planning a trip to Greece, one place you absolutely have to visit is the Acropolis of Athens - it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a real icon of the country. And while there's plenty to see and do there, we wanted to highlight two particular attractions that are especially worth your time: the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon, for starters, is a temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom, that was built in the 5th century BC. The structure itself is an ancient Greek architectural marvel, constructed entirely of marble! There are 46 columns in total, and simply walking around the temple gives you a sense of its intricate design and historical significance.
The Acropolis Museum
If you’re interested in delving a little deeper into the history of the Acropolis, then the Acropolis Museum is definitely the place to be. It’s an archaeology museum that’s actually located within the Acropolis complex itself, and it’s packed full of amazing artifacts and exhibits that shed light on ancient Greek culture and history. You could easily spend hours browsing through the collections and learning all about this fascinating period of human history.
Unusual Tip
Many hidden gems await discovery in Athens. In this section, we'll share an unusual tip for Athens visitors: go to the National Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city where you can explore ancient ruins while relaxing.
National Garden in Athens
Consider visiting the National Garden in Athens if you’re searching for a distinctive experience. The garden, which is in the middle of the city, has many different kinds of plants and trees as well as a number of little lakes and ponds. The garden’s tranquil environment can be enjoyed by visitors while they stroll through it. The Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Gate of Adrian are two of the several antiquity remnants that can be found in the garden.
Hidden Wonders
For travelers looking to explore the offbeat and unusual, this section will highlight two top places in Athens: The Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art and The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. These unique and fascinating destinations are ideal for visitors looking to venture off the beaten path and discover Athens' hidden treasures.
The Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art
This museum is dedicated to the ancient Cycladic culture, which flourished in the Aegean Sea region between 3200 BC and 2000 BC. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including figurines, pottery, and weapons, that offer insight into the ancient Cycladic way of life.
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
This modern cultural center is home to the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. It features a stunning design that incorporates sustainable materials and offers numerous cultural events and performances throughout the year. Visitors can explore the center’s gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Accommodation Suggestions
From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, Athens has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. This section will suggest four accommodations in various budgets, including Hostel Zeus Hostel, Airotel Parthenon, Hotel Grande Bretagne, and The Zillers Boutique Hotel.
Budget:
Hostel Zeus Hostel – Located in the heart of Athens, this budget-friendly hostel offers clean and comfortable dormitory-style accommodations, as well as private rooms. The hostel features a rooftop terrace with views of the Acropolis and a communal kitchen for guests to use.
Mid-range:
Airotel Parthenon – This mid-range hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the Acropolis and features modern and stylish rooms with all the necessary amenities. The hotel also has a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis.
Luxury:
Hotel Grande Bretagne – This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Athens and features elegant rooms and suites with marble bathrooms and stunning views of the city. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant, an indoor pool, and a spa.
Boutique:
The Zillers Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is located in the historic district of Athens and features stylish and unique rooms and suites with vintage decor and modern amenities. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Acropolis and the city.
The Acropolis is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Athens. In addition to exploring the Acropolis and its surrounding area, visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking to the top of Mount Lycabettus or exploring the Ancient Agora. For a unique experience, consider visiting the National Garden, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while exploring ancient ruins.
