| Highlights |
Acropolis & the Parthenon
The ravaged beauty of the Parthenon is truly a sight to behold. This iconic temple boasts elegant columns and friezes and crowns the Acropolis which overlooks the ancient city. Over the last 2,500 years it has survived earthquakes, fires, battles and looting. The excellent Acropolis Museum at the foot of the hill houses a number of important treasures and brings the temple’s history to life. In the shadow of the Acropolis lies the city’s oldest neighbourhood.
The Plaka
The Plaka’s labyrinthine streets are bursting with stalls and traders hawking their wares – from souvenirs, antiques and arts and crafts to clothing, paintings and hand-painted idols.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Hellenic Parliament Building in Syntagma Square attracts crowds of tourists eager to witness the pageantry and ceremony of the hourly Changing of the Guard - and see the soldiers’, or evzones’, unique uniform of kilted skirts, tasselled hats and pom-pom shoes.
National Gardens
Formerly the King’s private garden, the National Gardens that flank the Parliament Building are a welcome escape from the city’s oppressive heat, traffic jams and
crowds. Wander the narrow pathways to discover ancient remains, a small botanical museum, duck ponds and a small zoo.
Kolonaki
Rub shoulders with Athens’ elite in the upmarket district of Kolonaki and discover exclusive boutiques and fine restaurants.
Grand Promenade
Discover some of Athens’ archaeological treasures with a stroll along the Grand Promenade - Europe’s longest pedestrian promenade. This classic route links a host of ancient archaeological sites, monuments and sacred temples including the Acropolis and Herodes Atticus amphitheatre.
National Archaeological Museum
Greece’s largest museum, the superb National Archaeological Museum, houses more than 20,000 exhibits including prehistoric antiquities, ancient sculptures and vases, bronze artefacts and a rare Egyptian collection.
Kolonaki & Lycabettus Hill
Head to Kolonaki and ascend Lycabettus Hill, the city’s highest point, for panoramic views over Athens and the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus and Kalimarmaro Stadium.
Reach the summit by following zig-zagging steps to the top (challenging on a sunny day) or take the funicular that runs every half an hour from Ploutarchou Street.
Immerse yourself in ancient tradition and enjoy a concert or classical Greek tragedy under the stars at Herodes Atticus Theatre – an ancient open-air Roman theatre with superb acoustics.
Gazi
Gazi was formerly the site of the city’s old gasworks and is now spilling over with bars, restaurants, cafés and art exhibitions, whilst the picturesque harbour of
Mikrolimano in Piraeus boasts fine fish restaurants and lively bars. For glamorous nightlife it is hard to beat Glyfada, a coastal suburb that is home to myriad millionaires and celebrities and boasts chic night clubs by the beach. Glyfada is the place to see and be seen.
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| Eating/Drinking |
Athens has a thriving café culture and vibrant restaurant scene, with countless charming tavernas. In true European style, Athenians tend to eat later in the evening and can often be found chatting over a strong coffee in the early hours.
From grilled swordfish, souvlaki and calamari to tzatziki and stuffed vine leaves, Greek cuisine offers a wide selection of fresh and tasty dishes that are reasonably priced. In order to sample many of these culinary delights choose a number of small dishes or mezes that can be shared.
The ubiquitous fresh salads drizzled with olive oil and warm pitta bread accompanied by tasty dips are the perfect way to whet your palate before tucking into the delicious local speciality - fresh seafood. Dining alfresco with the illuminated Acropolis before you is an unforgettable experience.
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| Good to know |
The city is fairly compact and it is easy to navigate the main sights by foot. Since the 2004 Olympics, the metro is efficient, easy to navigate and the quickest way to explore the city. Hop on a bus for a cheap way to get around but allow extra time during rush hour. If you opt for a taxi then make sure that the metre is running, or you may find yourself paying a lot more than expected!
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