Athens, Greece is a stunningly beautiful city steeped in history and culture. Tourists flock to Athens throughout the year, due to the myriad of tourist attractions to see and experiences to be had in this ancient city. Athens is hot and dry throughout the year, although it is usually cooler in winter, which means that tourists can be found in Athens every month of the year.
There are so many places to see, places of cultural and historical significance, gardens, museums and more, that discussing them all in one article is almost impossible. This article will discuss some of the most famous sites in Athens, so that you get to know them properly before starting a city trip to Athens, Greece.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a large stone theater. It dates back to ancient Greece and has a capacity for 5,000 – 6,000 people. It was built by Herodes Atticus and dedicated to his wife, Aspasia Annia Regilli. It is one of the main venues for the Athens Festival and often hosts concerts, events and shows. It is located on the southern slope of the Acropolis. It’s a remarkable sight, especially at night during a concert or event, when floodlights illuminate the entire structure.
Constitution Plaza
Constitution Square, also known as Syntagma Square, is home to the Parliament Building. The Monument to the Unknown Soldier found within this square is guarded by Evzones, guards similar to those at Buckingham Palace. You can see the changing of the guard here every night at 6 pm
the national library
The National Library is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. It is part of the Danish architect Theophil Feiherr von Hansen’s Trilogy, which includes the University of Athens and the Academy of Athens. The National Library holds 4,500 Greek manuscripts and is a must-see for scholars, book lovers, and history buffs alike. It is located on the right side of the University of Athens, on Panepistimiou street.
the arts academy
Located next to the University of Athens, the Academy is also part of Hansen’s Trilogy of neoclassical structures. The building has Ionic columns and sculptures of Plato, Socrates, Apollo and Athena.
the national garden
Formerly known as the Royal Garden, the National Garden is home to various species of plants and flowers. It is located behind Parliament House, and a door connects it to the Zappeion, a building that was used as a fencing hall in the first modern Olympic Games. The National Garden is an ideal place to visit if you feel the need to be in contact with nature while staying within the city proper.
ancient agora
In the Ancient Agora, you can find a number of ancient ruins such as the Odeon of Agrippa, huge statues of Tritons and Giants, the Church of the Holy Apostles, Thesion, Royal Stoa and the famous Altar of the Twelve Gods.
steio
Do you need a little encouragement before you continue your tour of Athens, Greece? Order a puff (an iced coffee drink favored by many Greeks) and relax at an outdoor cafe in Thiseo. Thiseo is full of quaint cafes, eating places and rest areas; making it an ideal stopover on a busy tour.
Poseidon’s temple
Located at Cape Sounion in Attica, the Temple of Poseidon overlooks the beautiful waters of the Saronic Gulf. Although the famous sunset at the Temple of Poseidon is as impressive as they say, if you want to avoid the rush of tourists, visit it early in the morning. The cool air and calm atmosphere of the Temple of Poseidon during a morning visit is a balm for the senses.
Acropolis and the Parthenon
You cannot visit Athens without dropping by the Parthenon. Located on the Acropolis, the Parthenon was a temple to the goddess of wisdom, Athena. The Parthenon was built in the Doric architectural style, and is said by some to be the best example of Doric architecture ever made. Only 15 Corinthian columns of the original 104 remain standing; another column fell in 1852. However, the majestic beauty of each column is guaranteed to take any viewer’s breath away. The Parthenon can be seen from a distance, especially at night, when the entire structure is illuminated by searchlights. Acropolis Hill also boasts a spectacular view of the city of Athens.
lycabettus hill
Lycabettus Hill or Mount Lycabettus is the highest point in the city. You can find the Chapel of Saint George and an open-air theater on its top. It has an impressive view of the city of Athens.
Plaka and Monastiraki
For a breather from sightseeing, shop for unique souvenirs in Plaka and Monastiraki. Wander down Ermou, a pedestrian-only street, and browse the wares in the quirky little shops selling everything from vegetable shapers to statue replicas, original shirts and handmade silk roses. You can also find well-known stores such as Armani, D&G and Gucci, throughout Ermou. Before going on a shopping spree in Plaka or Monastiraki, make sure you eat a big meal beforehand and wear comfortable shoes, as you may be staying in the shops for longer than you think! On a side note, Plaka was built on the site of the residential areas of ancient Athens.
Getting around in Athens Greece
Traveling in Greece and taking in the sights can be extremely rewarding. It can also be quite exhausting. When visiting Athens, you have quite a few options when it comes to getting around. You can rent a car or a motorbike, or you can take the bus. However, rental cars are expensive and taking a bus can be inconvenient, with all the waiting at bus stops and having to walk the rest of the distance to your destination. Taxi tours in Athens are a comfortable, affordable and totally new way to get around Athens. Athens Taxi, in particular, offers half-day and full-day tours in Athens, and they also offer tours from Athens to Mycenae and Epidavros. Athens Taxi can also provide a personal guide for you and your group. If you prefer walking tours, Athens Taxi can also arrange for a personal guide to accompany you, pointing out landmarks and providing mini history lessons and interesting facts.
