a large stone building on a hill
Athens
top attractions
a large stone building on a hill
The Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens, the ultimate symbol of ancient Greece, majestically dominates the city. It is home to some of the most famous monuments of world cultural heritage, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. A visit to the Acropolis is not just a walk through history, but an experience that unveils the grandeur of ancient Greek civilization.
a city on a hill
Parthenon
The Parthenon, the most iconic monument of the Acropolis, represents the pinnacle of ancient Greek architecture and sculpture. It symbolizes the power and wisdom of ancient Greek civilization and is dedicated to the city's patron goddess, Athena. Constructed between 447 BC and 438 BC, it remains one of the most revered temples in the world.
a row of buildings
Dionysiou Areopagitou Street
Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, one of the most picturesque and historic avenues of ancient Athens, stretches at the foot of the Acropolis and offers a unique view of the city's ancient monuments. This pedestrianized street is ideal for walking and strolling, with many cafés, restaurants, and shops inviting visitors to enjoy the atmosphere of Athens. Every walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street blends modern life with history, and each step brings you closer to the monuments of antiquity.
a high angle view of a city
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens, is where history and the modern city meet. Here stands the Hellenic Parliament and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, dedicated to the Greek soldiers who sacrificed their lives on the battlefield without ever being identified. Every day, the changing of the guard in front of the monument impresses visitors and offers a unique sense of respect and national pride. Syntagma Square serves as a central hub for shopping, cafés, and cultural events, and from there, Ermou Street begins.
a large building with many windows
The Hellenic Parliament
The Hellenic Parliament, located in Syntagma Square, is the political center of Greece and one of the most iconic landmarks of Athens. This building was constructed between 1836 and 1842 and, while initially serving as a royal palace, it has housed the Greek parliament since 1934. In front of the Hellenic Parliament, you can admire the Monument to the Unknown Soldier and the changing of the guard by the Evzones, who are a symbol of Greek history.
a garden with palm trees and a body of water in the background
The National Garden
The National Garden of Athens, a green oasis in the heart of the city, spans 15 acres and offers a peaceful paradise for walking and relaxation. Created in 1838 by Queen Amalia, it is home to lush vegetation, ponds, and sculptures, making it one of the most beloved destinations for both locals and visitors. With numerous paths and abundant shade from trees, the National Garden provides the perfect refuge from the city's hustle and bustle, just a few steps away from the Hellenic Parliament.
a building with columns and a cross on top
The Zappeion Megaron
The Zappeion Megaron, one of the most important buildings in Athens, is located within the National Garden and hosts significant political and cultural events. Its construction was completed in 1888, and it serves as a venue for international conferences and exhibitions. Considered a symbol of Athenian classical architecture, its surrounding grounds are perfect for walking and leisurely strolls.
a large dam with a city in the background
Panathenaic Stadium - Kallimarmaro
The Panathenaic Stadium, or Kallimarmaro, is one of the most impressive and historic stadiums in the world, holding great significance for Greece and sports. Built entirely of white marble, the stadium was originally constructed in 330 BC and was used for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It was renovated for the Athens Olympic Games in 2004, has a seating capacity of 50,000, and today serves as the finish line for the Authentic Marathon of Athens, the most classical and historic race in the world.
aerial view of a large building
Thiseio
Thiseio, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Athens, is home to the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Built in the 5th century BC, the Temple of Hephaestus is an outstanding example of classical architecture and stands in the heart of Athens. Thiseio is also known for its narrow, charming streets, traditional cafés, and stunning views of the Acropolis.
a long hallway with pillars with Stoa of Attalos in the background
Ancient Agora of Athens
The Ancient Agora of Athens was the center of political, commercial, and social life in the ancient city. It was where the most significant public activities took place, such as the meetings of the Council and the marketplaces. At the Ancient Agora, you will find the Temple of Hephaestus and the famous Stoa of Attalos. Today, it offers a unique experience for visitors who wish to delve into ancient Greek history and culture, while also providing stunning views of the Acropolis and Mount Lycabettus.
a hillside with buildings and a hill with a town below
Plaka
Plaka is the most picturesque and traditional neighborhood of Athens, filled with narrow alleys, neoclassical houses, and charming tavernas. Located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is the perfect destination for strolls, blending the atmosphere of ancient Athens with modern touches. In Plaka, you'll also find numerous historical monuments, such as the Roman Agora and the Monument of Hadrian, making the area a meeting point between ancient and modern Athens.
a small town with a hill in the background
Anafiotika
Anafiotika is a beautiful, picturesque neighborhood in the heart of Athens, built amphitheatrically at the foot of the Acropolis. With narrow streets and houses in Cycladic architecture, the area resembles an island in the Aegean. This neighborhood was created by workers who came from Anafi to build the palace of King Otto and remains a quiet, charming oasis. Today, the classic blooming bougainvilleas and small tavernas create the perfect setting for endless strolls.
a city with many buildings and people
Monastiraki
Monastiraki is one of the most vibrant and popular areas of Athens, known for its colorful market and traditional shops. Here, you'll find the Monastiraki Flea Market, filled with small stores selling antiques, clothes, jewelry, and local products. Monastiraki is also famous for its stunning views of the Acropolis, and its square is one of the most central in Athens, serving as a meeting point for both locals and visitors.
a busy street with people and buildings
Ermou Street
Ermou Street is the busiest and most commercial street in Athens, connecting Syntagma Square to Monastiraki. Known for its fashion stores, international brands, and boutiques, Ermou is an ideal destination for shopping, as well as for strolling, as it blends commercial activity with the charm of Athenian architecture. Here, you'll find a variety of cafés, restaurants, bars, and rooftop gardens, making it one of the most popular spots for both locals and tourists.
a city built on a mountain
Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in central Athens, offering a breathtaking view of the entire city, from the Acropolis to Piraeus and the Saronic Sea. At an altitude of 277 meters, its summit is accessible either by funicular or on foot, for those who enjoy a short hike within the city. In addition to the stunning views, Lycabettus is home to the Lycabettus Theater, where concerts and performances are frequently held. It is an ideal destination for a romantic stroll or to enjoy the cityscape, especially during sunset.
a large stone structure with a pool of water in front of it
Herodes Atticus Theater - Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, or Herodion, is one of the most important and imposing monuments in Athens, built in 161 AD by the Roman nobleman Herodes Atticus at the foot of the Acropolis. It is one of the most famous open-air theaters in the world, known for its exceptional acoustics and unique view of the Acropolis. Today, it still maintains its identity and function, with a seating capacity of 5,000 and hosts the Athens Festival, along with numerous theater, music, and dance performances.
a large stone building with Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens in the background
Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the "Olympeion," is one of the most impressive ancient monuments in Athens. Built in the 6th century BC by Peisistratus and later completed by Emperor Hadrian, it was dedicated to Zeus, the chief god of the ancient Greek pantheon. The temple was considered the largest of its time, originally featuring 104 columns, of which only 15 remain today, known as the "Columns of the Olympian Zeus."