Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a melting pot of ancient history, cultural landmarks, and contemporary attractions. The city has been attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries, and it’s no surprise why. From the Acropolis to the bustling neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, Athens has something for everyone. And, with the city’s unbeatable Mediterranean climate, it’s the perfect destination for a city break.
Discovering the Best of Athens on a City Break
Athens is a city with a rich and diverse cultural history, and there’s no better way to discover it than on a city break. If you’re planning a trip to Athens, here are some of the best things to do and see during your trip.
1. Visit the Acropolis
The Acropolis is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Athens. It’s the most famous landmark in Athens, and for a good reason. The Acropolis is a hill that houses some of the most important ancient ruins in Greece, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea. The best time to visit the Acropolis is early in the morning when the crowds are still low.
2. Take a stroll through Plaka
Plaka is Athens’ oldest neighborhood, and it’s located at the base of the Acropolis. The neighborhood is known for its winding streets, charming buildings, and quaint cafes. Plaka is also home to some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Tower of the Winds and the Roman Agora.
3. Explore the Monastiraki Flea Market
The Monastiraki Flea Market is a bustling outdoor market that’s been a popular shopping destination in Athens for over a century. At the market, you can find everything from souvenirs to antique jewelry and clothing, and the best part is that it’s all reasonably priced.
4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, and it’s home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including statues, pottery, and jewelry. The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Mask of Agamemnon, which is believed to have belonged to the famous warrior from Greek mythology.
5. Take a day trip to Cape Sounion
Cape Sounion is a stunning headland located about an hour’s drive from Athens. It’s home to the Temple of Poseidon, which is an ancient ruin that sits atop a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. The views from the temple are breathtaking, and it’s the perfect destination for a day trip from Athens.
6. Visit the Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was once the heart of the city of Athens, and it was a bustling marketplace where Athenians would come to trade goods and socialize. Today, the site is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Greek life.
7. Take a food tour of Athens
Greek cuisine is known for its mouth-watering flavors and fresh ingredients, and there’s no better way to explore it than on a food tour. These tours will take you to the best restaurants, cafes, and markets in Athens, and you’ll get to sample some of the city’s most delicious dishes.
8. Walk through the National Garden
The National Garden is a peaceful oasis located in the heart of Athens, and it’s the perfect escape from the bustling city. The garden is home to over 500 different plant species, as well as several lakes and waterfalls, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
9. Take a sunset cruise
Watching the sunset from the Aegean Sea is a breathtaking experience that you won’t want to miss. There are several sunset cruises that depart from Athens’ main port and offer stunning views of the city and the sea.
10. Watch a show at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient amphitheater located at the base of the Acropolis. Today, the amphitheater is used for concerts and performances, and it’s one of the most popular live music venues in Athens. Watching a show at the Odeon is an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best time to visit Athens?
A: The best time to visit Athens is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are low.
Q: How long should I spend in Athens?
A: You can see most of the main attractions in Athens in three to four days.
Q: What’s the currency in Athens?
A: The currency in Athens is the Euro.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Athens?
A: Athens is a safe city, but like any other city, there are areas that you should avoid, especially at night.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Athens?
A: If you’re traveling from the US, Canada, or most European countries, you don’t need a visa to travel to Athens as a tourist.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions In Discovering the Best of Athens on a City Break:
1. Acropolis
2. Plaka
3. Monastiraki Flea Market
4. National Archaeological Museum
5. Cape Sounion
6. Ancient Agora
7. Food tour of Athens
8. National Garden
9. Sunset cruise
10. Odeon of Herodes Atticus