12 Best Tourist Attractions Destination in Athens
A symbol of Western Civilization at its most
magnificent, Athens boasts an illustrious history spanning over 3,000 years.
The city was the birthplace of Socrates, Pericles, and Sophocles during the
classical antiquity. Athens today is a busy and modern capital city, more than
just a relic of its glorious past. A completely different holiday experience
from the idyllic Greek islands, Athens is capable of feeling hectic and crowded
but offsets incredible cultural attractions. The Acropolis is one of the most
amazing ancient ruins in the world, and the exceptional archeological museums
of the city display fascinating uncovered artifacts at local sites. Other
hidden charms waiting to be discovered are the beautiful Byzantine churches
found throughout the city and the village-like neighborhoods north of the
Acropolis. In the narrow pedestrian streets of the Plaka district, lined with
quaint bougainvillea-draped houses and inviting restaurant terraces, tourists
will enjoy getting lost.
01. The Acropolis
Few world views compare to the Acropolis of Athens,
with its temple of Parthenon perched high on a rocky crag watching over
centuries of civilization. The Acropolis was the center of the ancient city, a
reminder of the glory of ancient Athens, and functioned as a citadel in its
protected hilltop location. The most emblematic building is the Parthenon, the
largest temple dating from 447 BC to 338 BC in the classical antiquity period.
The temple is an amazing sight with its monumental rows of Doric columns and
amazing sculptural details. Reliefs depict the birth of the goddess Athena in
the frieze on the east side. Other ruins of the Acropolis include the
Erechtheion, a complex of ancient sanctuaries built between 421 BC and 395 BC.
The most famous feature of the Erechtheion complex is the Porch of the
Caryatids, with six statues of maidens in place of Doric columns.
Also be sure to visit the Acropolis Museum at 15
Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, under the hilltop of the Acropolis. This museum
includes one of the world's most valuable collections of ancient Greek art. Two
interesting neighborhoods, Plaka and Anafiotika, are also nearby, charming
areas where you can stop for a meal and walk around the picturesque streets.
02. National
Archaeology Museum
Athens ' National Archeological Museum, founded in
the 19th century, is Greece's largest archeological museum and one of the
world's largest antiquity museums. The museum is housed in a stunning
Neoclassical building with an exhibition space of 8,000 square meters. Five
permanent collections with over 11,000 exhibits are on display, offering a
comprehensive overview of Greek civilization from prehistory to late antiquity
through the classical period. The Prehistoric Collection covers the sixth
millennium BC to 1050 BC (Neolithic, Cycladic, and Mycenaean periods) and
presents findings from Thera's prehistoric settlement. The Sculpture Collection
displays ancient Greek sculptures, including rare masterpieces, from the sixth
century BC to the fifth century BC. The collection of Vase and Decorative
Objects presents ancient Greek pottery from the 11th century BC until the Roman
Classic period. The collection of Stathatos features minor objects from a
variety of historical periods. The Metallurgy Collection displays exquisite
small statues and figurines sculpted from metals.
03. Byzantine
Museum
This interesting museum provides fascinating
insights into Greek history's Byzantine period. Housed in a palace built in the
19th century for the Duchesse de Plaisance, Charles-François Lebrun's wife of
France, the museum exhibits a precious collection of Byzantine art. The
Byzantine Empire was the heritage of the eastern half of the Roman Empire after
it fell; in religion and Greek speaking, the expansive empire was officially
Orthodox Christian. The Byzantine Empire ruled the land of what is now the
Balkans, Greece, and Asia Minor from the third century to the fifteenth
century. Religious art has been highly valued during this time. Byzantine
artists created masterpieces of detailed, glittering mosaics and gilded icons.
The Byzantine Museum, with more than 25,000
artifacts on display, is a treasury of Byzantine religious artifacts as well as
early Christian, medieval and post-Byzantine artifacts. Sculptures, paintings,
icons, textiles and mosaics are included in the collection. Highlights are the
architectural fragments of early Christian basilicas and Byzantine churches, as
well as the reproduction of a fountain depicted at Dafní Monastery. The
courtyard of the museum features a splendid fragment of a fifth-century mosaic
floor.
04. Agora: Ruins of
the Ancient Marketplace
The ancient Agora in ancient Athens was the
marketplace and the center of daily life. For an impressive distant view of the
Agora, head to the Acropolis ' north wall or the Areopagus roads. The northern
gate off Adrianoú Street (near Saint Philip Church) is the best place to enter
the Agora. The Greek word "Agora" means "gathering and
orating," indicating that this site was a public-speaking location. The
Agora, as well as the Agora tou Dimou, a civic decision-making group, was a
place of administration and commerce. Also held here were athletic events and
theater performances. One of the Agora's most interesting features is the
18-meter-long Royal Stoa, Archon Basileus ' seat, which took over the earlier
kings ' cultic functions. This BC stoa of the sixth century may have been the
scene of the trial of Socrates in 399 BC.
Tourists can take an enjoyable walk from the Agora
along the footpath leading up to the Agora Hill (Kolonos Agoraios). There is an
amazing sight on the top of the hill at 24 Andrianou Street, the Temple of
Hephaistos. This BC Doric temple of the fifth century is one of the best
preserved ancient Greek temples due to its conversion into a Christian church
that saved it from destruction. The temple was designed on a classic plan with
six rows of 13 columns, and on the Parthenon the Ionic friezes seem to be
modeled. Only 16 meters from the Roman Agora is the site of Hadrian's ancient
library, a complex of buildings founded after 132 AD by Emperor Hadrian.
05. Museum of
Cycladic Art
The Museum of Cycladic Art was established by the
Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris Foundation in the Kolonáki quarter in 1986.
Nikolas P. Goulandris, the shipowner, was a well-known patron of Athens ' arts
and cultural life. The collection of Goulandris itself forms the core of the
exhibits of the museum. The permanent collection of the museum is housed in a
sleek modern building with a marble and glass façade. The collection represents
ancient Greek art, ancient Cycladic art (the Aegean Sea islands surrounding
Delos Island near Mykonos), and Cypriot art (from Cyprus Island) from the
fourth century BC to the sixth century AD. Many of the displayed artifacts date
back to the sixth century BC. The elegant Stathatos Mansion of the 19th
century, accessible from the main building by a passageway from the atrium,
holds temporary exhibits.
06. Church of the
Holy Apostles
The Church of the Holy Apostles was the only
building left standing on the site of the ancient Agora when this whole quarter
of Athens was demolished to dig the archeological site of the Agora. Built in
the 10th century, over a nymphaion (sacred spring) stands the church. The
exterior is characterized by its ashlar masonry and its ornamental inscriptions
of Kufic (a style of Arabic script). The church has a dome supported on four
columns, typical of Byzantine architecture, and the apse and transepts feature
semicircular conches. Original frescoes depicting Christ Pantocrator (Ruler of
All), John the Baptist, adorable little cherubim, and archangels adorn the
interior of the dome. Much of the original 11th-century iconostasis (wall of
icons and religious paintings) has also been well preserved.
07. Panaghia
Kapnikaréa Church
The Panaghia Kapnikaréa Church is a delightful place
to visit, with a little square opening onto Ermoú Street. The intervention of
King Ludwig I of Bavaria saved this beautiful little church from demolition in
the 19th century. The church is a beautiful example of Byzantine 11th-century
architecture. Domed cruciform churches like this one were typical during this
period. The church was enhanced in the 12th century with a graceful portico
entrance and a narthex with four pediments (built on the west end). Inside, the
church is decorated with paintings from the 19th century created in Middle Byzantine
iconographic style.
08. Olympieion:
Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Olympiaion was the largest temple in ancient
Greece, dedicated to Zeus. Although the Parthenon is better preserved, an even
more monumental structure in its day was the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The
temple dates back to the sixth century BC but was not finished by Emperor
Hadrian until the second century AD. The great impression this temple made in
its complete form is easy to imagine. The grandiose sanctuary was once
supported by more than a hundred huge marble columns. Only 15 columns remain
standing, and there is another surviving column on the ground, but the monumental
presence of the ruins gives a sense of the original building's massive size.
The gigantic structure was an appropriate shrine for Zeus, the most
all-powerful God of the ancient Greeks, known as the King of Gods. Nearby, just
north of the Olympieion, there is a small park with the ruins of the wall of
Themistokles and the ancient Roman baths.
09. Panathenaic
Stadium & Olympic Stadium
The largest building in Ancient Athens, the
Panathenaic Stadium, can accommodate 60,000 spectators. Built in the Herodes
Atticus era around 335 BC, the venue hosted the Panathenaic Games where runners
competed in races around the track. The 204-meter-long track was designed with
four double herms that would turn runners in the races. Around AD 140, Herodes
Atticus updated the stadium with new marble seats. The structure that tourists
see today is a replica of the original stadium that was reconstructed for the
1896 Olympic Games. This modern-era Olympic Stadium was created in the
identical fashion as the Panathenaic Stadium, with 47 tiers of seating and a
rounded southeast end.
10. The Charming
Neighborhoods of Pláka and Anafiotika
Between the northern slopes of the Acropolis and
Ermoú Street, there are two important archeological sites in the picturesque
Pláka neighborhood on Pepopida Street: the Roman Agora of the 1st century BC
and the Hadrian Library of the 2nd century. However, this historic area's main
attraction is its charming village atmosphere. Narrow pedestrian streets and
quarter Pláka's cheerful little squares are lined with beautiful pastel-painted
houses trimmed with bougainvillea. Historic churches, such as the Metamórfosis
Church in the southwest and the Kapnikaréa Church in the north, are tucked away
in the quiet corners of the neighborhood. The picturesque setting invites you
to take pleasant walks.
There are plenty of authentic Greek restaurants with
inviting terrace seats in the Plaka quarter. The area is renowned for its
Mnisikleous Street Staircase Restaurant. Many of the restaurants look
attractive, but most of them are tourist traps (with aggressive hosts baiting
passengers for entry) and should be avoided. Consult a guidebook or ask a local
for recommendations before choosing a restaurant in this area, or try the
quieter hidden streets on the hillside that hide cute little cafes and tavernas.
Anafiotika, another atmospheric village-like neighborhood where tourists can
enjoy traditional Greek food, is also nestled in the slopes north of the
Acropolis. The winding medieval streets of this Anafiotika are also a delight
to explore.
11. Changing of the
Guard at Syntagma Square
Watching the Guard Change at Syntagma Square is an
exciting and memorable experience for many tourists. The Presidential Guard
soldiers stand 24 hours a day, year round, in front of the Hellenic Parliament
on Syntagma Square. The guards are wearing traditional costumes with folded
skirts, leg tassels and pompom shoes. The Guard Change takes place daily at 11
am in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Monument. This monument honors
anonymous soldiers who have passed away fighting for the country. The monument
features a marble relief imitating an ancient times warrior grave stele.
12. Saint Demetrius
Loumbardiaris Chapel
This tiny Byzantine chapel of the 12th century
offers tourists an enchanting spiritual experience in a green setting on
Philopappou Hill. Because of the ancient belief that divinity protected the
gates, the chapel was built at the Diateichisma Gate. The chapel has a
single-aisle vaulted basilica shape inside, and the walls are decorated with
frescoes dating back to 1732. The chapel's name "Loumbardiaris" is
linked to the legend that the church was saved by a miracle around 1650 when
the Acropolis ' Turkish commander, Yusuf, bombed the church. Architect D
restored the church in the 1960s. Pikionis. Pikionis Another highlight of
visiting Philopappou Hill is the chance to take in spectacular views of the
Parthenon from this location.
Where to Stay in Athens for Sightseeing
The best place to stay in Athens is near the
neighborhoods of the Plaka Acropolis or Anafiotika. This will put you at the
center of the action and walking distance from the Acropolis, Roman Agora,
Hadrian Library, and Syntagma Square. Both neighborhoods are picturesque and
picturesque, with narrow pedestrian streets, lots of restaurants and
interesting shops. Some high-quality hotels in convenient locations are as
follows:
·
Luxury
Hotels: Within walking distance from the Temple of Olympian
Zeus and many good restaurants, the boutique AVA Hotel Athens offers quaint and
cozy suites with kitchenettes. The O&B Athens Boutique Hotel is a 10-minute
walk to the Acropolis and features modern rooms and a spectacular rooftop patio
with amazing views. The elegant Grande Bretagne Hotel, with a well-regarded
rooftop restaurant, is set in a prime location that it has occupied since 1874.
·
Mid-Range
Hotels: The appropriately named Plaka Hotel offers good
rooms in a great location, and the rooftop patio has views to the Acropolis.
Free coffee and tea are on offer all day long. The Hermes Hotel in the Plaka is
newly renovated and just a two-minute walk to the attractions of Syntagma
Square. On a quiet side street, the Central Hotel has also been recently
renovated and offers modern, comfortable rooms and a hot breakfast. It's a
15-minute walk from the Acropolis, and the view from the rooftop patio is quite
spectacular.
·
Budget
Hotels: The Hotel Acropolis House is a good value option
close to all the attractions. Basic but comfortable rooms are on offer, and the
shops of the pedestrian-only Ermou Street are a short stroll away. The Kimon
Athens Hotel features small but well-appointed rooms and is a two-minute walk
from Syntagma Square. The Hotel Metropolis has been recently renovated and
provides rooms with balconies, some facing the Acropolis.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Athens
·
See
the Sights: For maximum sightseeing flexibility and
value, it's hard to beat the City Sightseeing Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Tour.
Accompanied by an audio commentary, you can cruise around Athens in an open-top
double decker bus, hopping on and off at any of the 14 stops to spend more time
at your favorite attractions, such as the Acropolis or the Plaka. If you only
have a few hours to see the highlights of Athens, the Athens Half-Day
Sightseeing Tour blends both the city's ancient and modern attractions. An
expert guide takes you to see top sites such as the Tomb of the Unknown, the
Acropolis, and the Pantheon. This 3.5-hour tour includes admission to the
Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum (optional), hotel pickup, and free
Wi-Fi on the coach.
·
Delphi
Day Trip: If you want to complement your Athens tour by
exploring historic monuments further afield, consider the Delphi Day Trip. This
full-day tour takes you to this World Heritage-listed archaeological site to
see the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archeological Museum. On your way home,
you have a chance to explore the picturesque towns of Arachova and Levadia.
Included in the tour are hotel pickup and drop-off at select hotels, free
Wi-Fi, and entrance fees.
·
Mycenae
and Epidaurus Day Trip: Stunning scenery and hilltop ruins
are the highlights of the Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip. This full-day guided
adventure includes a beautiful drive along the Saronic Gulf and into the
Peloponnese to see the hilltop ruins of Mycenae as well as a visit to
Epidaurus, the birthplace of Apollo's son, and the picturesque town of Nauplia.
Also included are entrance fees, a professional guide, free Wi-Fi on the coach,
and a map.
·
Cape
Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Day Trip: See one of Athens'
most famous monuments on the Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip.
Traveling in an air-conditioned coach, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a
scenic drive to Cape Sounion to see the remains of the clifftop Temple of
Poseidon, overlooking the sea, while an experienced guide shares information
about its history. This four-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at
select hotels, entrance fees, and free Wi-Fi on the coach.
Venturing Beyond Athens: Mythology, History, and the World's Most Beautiful Beaches
Greece's rich history extends far beyond Athens, but
the remains of Corinth's Apollo Temple and Delphi's oracle seat are within a day
trip's reach. Besides numerous continental attractions, such as the monasteries
above Metéora's rock formations, the numerous Greek islands are known for their
iconic whitewashed houses with brightly painted shutters, ancient ruins,
medieval monasteries, and varied landscapes. Santorini's romantic island (also
known as Thíra) is popular with couples and celebrities, renowned for its
bright houses that seem to cling to the side of the volcanic cliffs of the
island.
Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands and the
southernmost part of Europe, which is large enough to occupy a whole holiday.
Heraklion is the main port and capital city on the island, best known for
Knossos' Minoan Palace. The city of Rethymnon has several interesting
historical attractions west of here, including Turkish mosques and Venetian
churches. Farther west, Chania's coastal city was founded almost 5,000 years
ago by Minoans as Kydonia's city-state. The island of Delos is a UNESCO-listed
site north of Santorini, known in mythology as the birthplace of Apollo. Heraion
(Hera's Temple) is also a UNESCO site, located on the far-reaching island of
Sámos, less than two kilometers from Turkey's coast. Also strongly influenced
by surrounding cultures, the port city of Rhodes Town is a popular cruise stop.
On Corfu Island you can find the best beaches in Greece; Corfu Town, its
capital city, is a pedestrian-only holiday paradise with Mediterranean charm.
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