Athens

Athens is the capital and the largest city of Greece. Athens is also known as one of the world’s oldest cities, rich in history, culture, and arts. However, such considerations are superficial when compared with the fecundity of Athens’ legacy to the world, such as its philosophy, architecture, literature, and political ideals. 

Athens has a very long history of more than 3,000 years. One of the greatest symbols of ancient Greek civilization is the Parthenon, built between 447 and 438 BC, making it one of the most popular archaeological sites in the world.

In addition to being a center of history and cultural civilization and its natural beauty, Athens is also a center of economy and trade. The transportation system in the Greek capital is one of the most sophisticated and modern, and it includes the subway (Metro), buses, and trams. The Metro in Athens has been operating since 2000 and has more than 300 stations connecting various areas in the city. Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Southern Europe, serving more than 25 million passengers annually.

A visit to Athens is incomplete without tasting typical Greek food such as souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava sold in several local restaurants. The price of traditional Greek dishes in restaurants and cafes in Athens is relatively affordable, with an average of €30 – €50 for a dinner for two.

Places to Visit in Athens

1. Acropolis and Parthenon

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Athens is known for its iconic Acropolis, a large rocky hill in the middle of the city. At its peak is the Parthenon, a magnificent temple built in the 5th century BC as an offering to the city’s patroness, the goddess Athena. Exploring the Acropolis and Parthenon will provide stunning views and a profound historical experience of the glory of ancient Greek civilization.

How To Get There

The Acropolis is easily accessible from downtown Athens. You can take Metro 1 (Green Line) to Monastiraki station or walk for about 10 minutes to get there. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi and get off right in front of the entrance.

2. Acropolis Museum

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Acropolis Museum, located near the Acropolis, offers some of the most incredible collections of artifacts from the site, such as statues, reliefs, and everyday objects used by the people of ancient Athens. The museum’s modern architectural design allows visitors to understand its history and meaning better. The view that leads directly to the Parthenon makes the Acropolis Museum an attraction that can captivate the hearts of tourists.

How To Get There

This museum is very close to the Acropolis; the nearest Metro Station is Akropolis (Line 1), which is only 5 minutes from the station to the museum.

3. Plaka District

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Plaka is Athens’s oldest district and the perfect place to experience local life. Plaka has narrow, winding streets, neoclassical houses, souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Greek food. In Plaka District, visitors can explore local markets or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in a cafe overlooking the colorful streets. 

How To Get There

You can visit Plaka just by walking from the Acropolis and Monastiraki Square. Alternatively, take the Metro to Syntagma station and walk for a few minutes.

4. Monastiraki Square

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Monastiraki Square is the center of Athens city life, known for its open-air markets and bustling bazaars. It is a haven for antique and handicraft hunters. Visitors can also enjoy views of the Acropolis and Parthenon from a distance. Monastiraki is filled with cafes and restaurants serving delicious Greek cuisine, making it a great place to rest after exploring the city. 

How To Get There

To get to Monastiraki Square, you can take Metro Line 1 (Green Line) or Line 3 (Blue Line). Monastiraki Square is also a major transportation hub, so it is easy to access by bus or taxi.

5. Syntagma Square

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Syntagma Square is the political heart of Athens, with the Greek Parliament building in the center of the square. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Parliament building, performed by Evzones troops dressed in traditional Greek clothing. Hotels, shops, and restaurants around Syntagma Square make it a great starting point for exploring other parts of Athens.

How To Get There

Syntagma Square is accessible via three Metro lines, Line 1 (Green Line), Line 2 (Red Line) and Line 3 (Blue Line) which stop at Syntagma. Besides the Metro, buses, and taxis are alternatives because the square is in the city’s heart.

6. Temple of Olympian Zeus

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The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest temples in ancient Greece; it was built to honor Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology. Although the temple is now in ruins, visitors can still see how magnificent the building was in its time, as evidenced by the still-standing giant columns. Located in the city center, the temple is close to the Athens National Park and surrounded by beautiful scenery.

How To Get There

Because of its proximity to the Acropolis, you can go to the nearest Metro station, Akropolis, or Syntagma, about a 10-minute walk away to get to the temple.

Best Time to Visit

To avoid the day’s heat, morning or afternoon is the best time to visit the temple of Olympian Zeus.

 

7. Mount Lycabettus

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Mount Lycabettus is the highest hill in Athens and offers spectacular views of the entire city. To get to the top, visitors can take a comfortable cable car. Arriving at the top, visitors will find a small church and a restaurant serving delicious dishes against the backdrop of beautiful city views. The view will be very romantic at night because dim lights light up the entire city. 

How To Get There

If you want a more challenging experience, you can climb it. However, to reach the base, you can take the funicular from the station on Kallirois Street near the foot of the hill.

Best Time to Visit

The best time is at sunset because you can enjoy the beautiful view of the entire city with golden colors emerging from the setting sun. 

 

8. National Archaeological Museum

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The National Archaeological Museum is one of Greece’s largest and most important museums. This museum houses a collection of artifacts found throughout Greece, such as statues, paintings, and other historical items. Famous collections include the Discobolus (Football Player) Statue and objects from the Minoan and Mycenaean Civilizations.  

How To Get There

It is a little further from the city center, but access to it is easy by Metro Line 1 to Omonia station or Line 2 to Panepistimio station. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time is in the morning because there are few visitors.

How to Protect From Scam

• Be careful of pickpockets. They are active in crowded places like Monastiraki Square and on some public transportation. It is better to keep your valuables in a safe bag and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• It’s best to avoid strangers who approach you with unsolicited assistance, such as giving you directions or taking photos. They may be seeking a tip from you or trying to distract you while someone else retrieves your belongings.
• Use a taxi service with an official permit, such as Uber or Bolt, to avoid excessive costs; also, make sure you ask about the fare before getting in the taxi.
• Plaka dan Monastiraki is a great place to shop for souvenirs, but compare prices before buying and avoid paying too much for souvenirs.

Safety Tips

• Stay alert by paying attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reliable transportation by choosing a reputable taxi service or ride-sharing app
• Keep valuables safe while traveling to various locations 
• Save emergency numbers at the location where you live by calling 112 for emergencies.