Athens travel guide

The city with a storied past, where every square screams its resplendent culture and history, and Athens was on my bucket list for a long time, I'm not sure when. Popularly known as the City of Ruins, Athens is also the birthplace of philosophy and democracy, but it's much more than that. New age Athens is about vibrant art, hipster cafes, and is one of a kind. Effortlessly elegant streets interwound by huge history, culture, and philosophy, you will not be disappointed coming here. I still can't fathom the fact that I had been to Greece or Athens and tried to absorb Athens into myself. 

 From iconic ancient ruins to the quaint quarter of Anafiotika, succulent souvlaki to vibrant art scenes, and bustling streets of Monastiraki Square, Athens is truly magical.

What to See in Athens   

1. Acropolis, one of the most illustrious archaeological sites in the world, is synonymous with Athens. It was built in the 15th century and features ancient ruins, creating artifacts, and some of the most stunning views of Athens. It sits on the rocky hilltop of Athens city that rises 150 m (490 ft) above sea level. Whether you are a history buff or not, here, the most stunning views of Athens greet you with its grandeur and iconic existence. No matter how much your imagination has wings, seeing and visiting the Acropolis with your own eyes is an experience of its own. The most famous temple, the Parthenon, was dedicated to the goddess Athena and is considered the peak of Greek art. The Parthenon was severely damaged during the Venetian War. There are many incredible buildings, including the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Theatre of Dionysus, among others.  
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3. Anafiotika,  this quint neighborhood is one of a kind. A visitor must quickly move from the bustling city scene to find solace. Visit the beautiful houses overlooking the city's view and vibrant art. It is an incredible experience to get lost amongst the labyrinth of narrow alleyways and quaint cottages.
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5. Olympic Stadium is a must-visit venue in Athens, built in 330 BC. This was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and remains the starting point of the Olympic flame torch relay, continuing to host events today. This curiously well-preserved stadium is a marble stadium. There are also some spectacular views of the Acropolis if you walk up to the top levels of the stadium. It's a wonderful experience standing on the medal podium and taking photos.       
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7. Plaka, not mentioning this prettiest hillside neighborhood in Athens, will be incomplete. Narrow and charming cobblestone streets lined with neoclassical buildings evoked a sense of nostalgia, as time gone by was enveloped in a history spanning 3500 years. Nestled in the foothills of the Acropolis, packed with authentic Greek eateries, quaint shops, ceramics, and souvenirs. 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
8. Lycabettus, situated in the center of Athens at the highest point of the white limestone cliffs, undoubtedly offers the most breathtaking view of Athens. Standing 277 meters above sea level, if you want to witness the best view, go during sunset and witness the panoramic views of Athens with the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and quintessential whitewashed houses in the backdrop. To go up there, you can hike or take the funicular. Walking is challenging as it is above the hil,l and you must take hundreds of steps. The funicular operates every 30 minutes from 8:30 am to 2:30 am. A return ticket costs 9 euros, while a one-way ticket is 7.50 euros. There is also a café and a restaurant at the top of the hill, where you can eat or drink. 
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10. Roman Agora was built in the 6th century BC and is an ancient marketplace nested north of the Acropolis. Seeing the tower Of Winds, East Propylon, and the old Roman bath and other structures is fascinating. A quick visit is needed compared to other attractions it does not take much time to see the Roman Empire's mark on Athens. 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
11. Ancient Agra and Stoa of Attalos one of the wonderful historic sites to wander around a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. The site was built in the 5th century BC. The agora contains the Stoa Museum and the temple of Hephaestus. It was the city's center in ancient times and an important marketplace in social and political life. It contained the most important administrative building and the court. The Stoa of Attalos was built in the 2nd century BC and set out as a marketplace; today, it is a well-preserved museum. It feels underwhelmed compared to the grandeur of the Acropolis, but it is worth a visit. 
    
    
    
    
    
    
12. Holy Metropolitan Church, situated in the heart of Athens, began its building on Christmas Day in 1842 and was completed by 1862, a beautiful cathedral and stunningly painted.  
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
13. Church of Panagia Kapnikarea. At the center of Athens, and on the bustling Ermou street, this Byzantine architecture Cathedral is one of the prettiest churches in Athens. The church was built at the beginning of the 11th c. on the ruins of an ancient temple.
14.  Hadrian Library a wonderful historic site amid the city was built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD. It was considered one of the largest libraries in ancient Greece. 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
15. Acropolis Museum - A museum with a stunning display of incredible statues, artifacts, and exhibits with immaculate descriptions and overlooking the original structure from the top. An all-weather-suited light-filled museum in new age architecture. It was a fantastic experience to see the archaeological site through the glasses. 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
16. Monastiraki Square & Flea Market is one of the most spirited squares of Athens, surrounded by the ruins of Hadrian’s Library, the Ancient Agora, and the rebuilt Stoa of Attalos, with a museum exhibiting Athenian artifacts. This is picturesque, with cute narrow alleys filled with lovely cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Monstiraki flea market is something you should not miss as it gives you the experience of outdoor shopping. The flea market is fascinating, full of antique stuff, books, etc., and jammed with souvenir shops to buy some memories to return home. 
    
    
    
    
    
    
17. Hadrian's Arch sits beside the National Garden and the Acropolis in the backdrop. An important architectural landmark and the design is perfectly symmetrical on both sides; it was built in 131 AD to pay homage to the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It was just a quick visit and a fantastic feeling that it survived after a thousand years. Created with Pentelic marble, the lower part imitates the Roman arches, while the upper part imitates the ancient Greek propylae.

Some Snippets and Highlights 

Use proper walking shoes.

Buy the tickets in advance online to avoid the queue at the ticketing center. Also, buy the 30 euros combo ticket, which gives you access to 5 archeological sites, including the Acropolis. Otherwise, entry to each site will cost you 10 euros individually.

How to get around