Athens is a city where history and everyday life go hand in hand. Everywhere you walk, you will encounter ancient buildings, squares and stories. Whether you love culture, like to walk or just want to enjoy the atmosphere, Athens has something for everyone. In this article you will discover the most beautiful sights in Athens and we give you five handy tips for your visit.
Top 10 Sights in Athens
Below you will find a list of the 10 most popular spots you should definitely not miss. Each location tells its own story and is easily accessible.
1. AcropolisThe symbol of Athens. 2. Agora of Athens 3. National Archaeological Museum 4. Plaka 5. Monastiraki 6. Temple of Olympic Zeus 7. Lycabettus hill 8. Syntagma Square and changing of the guard. 9. Panathenaic Stadium 10 Anafiotika
1. Acropolis - The symbol of Athens
The Acropolis towers high above the city. This ancient citadel is Greece’s most famous monument. Among other things, you will find the famous Parthenon. From here you also have a beautiful view of the city. Especially in the morning it is quieter and less hot here. The Acropolis is the face of Athens.
2. Agora of Athens
The Agora used to be the heart of public life. Here the ancient Greeks gathered to talk, trade and make decisions. You can now admire remains of temples and buildings there. The famous Stoa of Attalos has been completely rebuilt and serves as a museum.
3. National Archaeological Museum
This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Greek art in the world. From sculptures to jewelry, everything tells something about Greece’s rich history. The museum is well organized and clearly signposted, which makes it extra nice for tourists.
4. Plake Athens
Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens. Here you walk through narrow streets with colorful houses and cozy terraces. This is an ideal place to unwind, eat something or buy souvenirs. Especially in the evening, the atmosphere here is particularly pleasant.
5. Monastiraki
In this lively district you will find everything: a flea market, stores, churches and views of the Acropolis. Its central location makes Monastiraki a good starting point for your city tour. Don’t forget to have a drink on one of the roof terraces.
6. Temple of Zeus
This impressive temple was once one of the largest in antiquity. Although only a few columns remain standing today, you can clearly see how large the whole thing once was. The temple is a short distance from the Acropolis and is easy to combine with other sights in Athens.
7. Lycabettus hill
Want to see Athens from above? Then climb the Lycabettus hill. You can walk or take the cable car. A beautiful view awaits you at the top, especially during sunset. There is also a small church and a cafe where you can have a drink.
8. Syntagma Square and changing of the guard.
On this square is the parliament building. Every hour the changing of the guard takes place here. The guards wear traditional clothing and move in a fixed rhythm. It is a short but special experience that you will not soon forget.
9. Panathenaic Stadium
This stadium is made entirely of marble and was used for the first modern Olympic Games. Now you can walk around it and learn more about the history of sports in Greece. The stadium is impressive even if you are not a sports fan.
10. Anafiotika
This small neighborhood is located just below the Acropolis. The white houses and narrow paths are reminiscent of the Greek islands. It feels like being out of the city for a while. Anafiotika is quiet, photogenic and perfect for a short walk.
Our 5 tips for sightseeing in Athens
Based on our experiences, we share 5 practical tips. These will help you to fully enjoy the sights in Athens.
1. Start early in the day
Many places are less crowded and cooler in the morning. So you avoid the heat and long queues.
2. Buy your tickets online
For popular attractions, such as the Acropolis, it is smart to buy tickets online in advance. That saves waiting time.
3. Wear good shoes
Many sights are on hills or have uneven paths. Sturdy shoes will make your visit a lot more pleasant.
4. Use public transportation
The Athens Metro is clean, fast and cheap. Ideal for getting around easily between neighborhoods.
5. Combine sights smartly
Many highlights are close together. Plan your route well so you don’t have to travel back and forth unnecessarily.
In conclusion
Athens is a city full of stories, atmosphere and variety. Whether you come for the culture, the history or the local atmosphere, there is always something to discover. With this list of sights to see in Athens and our tips, you’ll be well prepared for a great trip.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Special offers on sightseeing in Athens
If you are going on a city trip to Athens and would like to visit some of the sights, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
Sights in Athens: What must you have seen?
Athens is a city where history and everyday life go hand in hand. Everywhere you walk, you will encounter ancient buildings, squares and stories. Whether you love culture, like to walk or just want to enjoy the atmosphere, Athens has something for everyone. In this article you will discover the most beautiful sights in Athens and we give you five handy tips for your visit.
Top 10 Sights in Athens
Below you will find a list of the 10 most popular spots you should definitely not miss. Each location tells its own story and is easily accessible.
1. AcropolisThe symbol of Athens.
2. Agora of Athens
3. National Archaeological Museum
4. Plaka
5. Monastiraki
6. Temple of Olympic Zeus
7. Lycabettus hill
8. Syntagma Square and changing of the guard.
9. Panathenaic Stadium
10 Anafiotika
1. Acropolis - The symbol of Athens
The Acropolis towers high above the city. This ancient citadel is Greece’s most famous monument. Among other things, you will find the famous Parthenon. From here you also have a beautiful view of the city. Especially in the morning it is quieter and less hot here. The Acropolis is the face of Athens.
2. Agora of Athens
The Agora used to be the heart of public life. Here the ancient Greeks gathered to talk, trade and make decisions. You can now admire remains of temples and buildings there. The famous Stoa of Attalos has been completely rebuilt and serves as a museum.
3. National Archaeological Museum
This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Greek art in the world. From sculptures to jewelry, everything tells something about Greece’s rich history. The museum is well organized and clearly signposted, which makes it extra nice for tourists.
4. Plake Athens
Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens. Here you walk through narrow streets with colorful houses and cozy terraces. This is an ideal place to unwind, eat something or buy souvenirs. Especially in the evening, the atmosphere here is particularly pleasant.
5. Monastiraki
In this lively district you will find everything: a flea market, stores, churches and views of the Acropolis. Its central location makes Monastiraki a good starting point for your city tour. Don’t forget to have a drink on one of the roof terraces.
6. Temple of Zeus
This impressive temple was once one of the largest in antiquity. Although only a few columns remain standing today, you can clearly see how large the whole thing once was. The temple is a short distance from the Acropolis and is easy to combine with other sights in Athens.
7. Lycabettus hill
Want to see Athens from above? Then climb the Lycabettus hill. You can walk or take the cable car. A beautiful view awaits you at the top, especially during sunset. There is also a small church and a cafe where you can have a drink.
8. Syntagma Square and changing of the guard.
On this square is the parliament building. Every hour the changing of the guard takes place here. The guards wear traditional clothing and move in a fixed rhythm. It is a short but special experience that you will not soon forget.
9. Panathenaic Stadium
This stadium is made entirely of marble and was used for the first modern Olympic Games. Now you can walk around it and learn more about the history of sports in Greece. The stadium is impressive even if you are not a sports fan.
10. Anafiotika
This small neighborhood is located just below the Acropolis. The white houses and narrow paths are reminiscent of the Greek islands. It feels like being out of the city for a while. Anafiotika is quiet, photogenic and perfect for a short walk.
Our 5 tips for sightseeing in Athens
Based on our experiences, we share 5 practical tips. These will help you to fully enjoy the sights in Athens.
1. Start early in the day
Many places are less crowded and cooler in the morning. So you avoid the heat and long queues.
2. Buy your tickets online
For popular attractions, such as the Acropolis, it is smart to buy tickets online in advance. That saves waiting time.
3. Wear good shoes
Many sights are on hills or have uneven paths. Sturdy shoes will make your visit a lot more pleasant.
4. Use public transportation
The Athens Metro is clean, fast and cheap. Ideal for getting around easily between neighborhoods.
5. Combine sights smartly
Many highlights are close together. Plan your route well so you don’t have to travel back and forth unnecessarily.
In conclusion
Athens is a city full of stories, atmosphere and variety. Whether you come for the culture, the history or the local atmosphere, there is always something to discover. With this list of sights to see in Athens and our tips, you’ll be well prepared for a great trip.
Edward and Raziye
Authors Cities To Travel
Special offers on sightseeing in Athens
If you are going on a city trip to Athens and would like to visit some of the sights, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
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