Things to see in Athens Greece

There is no such city in Greece like Athens, so abundant with treasures from the past like nothing else in the world. The capital of Greece, centre of Attica, a city on the coast of the Aegean Sea that has a history of more than 3400 years. Piraeus is the main port of Athens since ancient times and still a busy harbour for ships heading towards nearby islands and the rest of the Mediterranean. If you decide to visit Athens the best way of getting there is by plane. The airport is serviced by regular flights from European capitals and some transcontinental flights as well. Athens is the terminus for a lot of buses in the region. You can also rely on rail but there are a limited number of destinations. The city’s climate is definitely Mediterranean with permanent high temperatures during the summer. The only negative aspect is the poor quality of the air and therefore recent smog alerts. The current level is not hazardous to your health but pay attention to up to date information. Don’t worry about finding a hotel because the variety is almost endless and youth hostels are present as well.

Athens, the cradle of Greek culture

The first and probably most famous sight in Athens is the Acropolis. The Greek word means citadel and it was the centre of the ancient city. At the top of the steep rocks the Acropolis you will find the ruins of the ancient building complex with temples, theatres, and porticos that is unique in Europe. At the foot of the hill you can find the parking lot and most tourists arrive here. After purchasing the ticket start climbing up the steep steps towards the top just to find yourself in front of the Pantheon. Take a walk around the citadel to discover the temple of Athena on the left, the altar of Zeus in the back and the shrine of Artemis near the gate. The nearby Acropolis Museum is a must for everyone because it has a perfect collection of statues, jewellery, weapons and vases found in the vicinity. Spend some time wandering around the ruins and enjoy the panorama.

The most important building of contemporary Athens is the Hellenic Parliament. In front of it you’ll see guards dressed in their national uniform. Wait for the change of guards and watch them swapping their guns and marching around the square. The Zappeion in the close vicinity is a special place within the city. The gardens were designed to reflect ancient style and surrounded by colonnades it has a magnificent look. Feel the modern heartbeat of Athens at the Omonoia Sqauare and in the neighbourhood. Look in to the streets to grasp the average weekdays of the locals. Of course you’ll find a lot of sights other than museums in Athens. Experience the atmosphere of the Monastiraki flea market and admire the traditional buildings in the narrow streets.

If you’re in this area try some of the local specialities. Gyro is known around the world but Greece has a lot more to offer. As a starter taste olives with feta cheese and then continue with a cold fruit soup and fried lamb chops with thyme as a main dish. Musaka is aubergine with some kind of a filling, most commonly minced meat.

Lovers of archaeology will enjoy the National Archaeological Museum which houses a great collection of ancient finds. Bear in mind that Athens was the first city to organise modern Olympic Games and since then it has housed many games. It is possible to visit the old stadium and the new Olympic Village though not all of the Olympic Park. Mount Lycabettus has a great view of the city doesn’t matter which part of the day you go. Athens is a regular stop for Mediterranean cruises and nearby islands furthermore Turkey or Cyprus are easily accessible by boat. Get information about the prices and schedule ahead. Athens is one of those cities that are inhabited since ancient times but still lives in the present with a rich heritage from the past.