Top 8 Places To Visit In Athens Greece

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is steeped in history and culture, and is home to some of the world's most important landmarks and archaeological sites. Here are the top 8 places to visit in Athens.

1.Acropolis

The Acropolis is one of the most famous landmarks in Athens and the world. It is a rocky outcrop that rises 150 meters above the city and is home to several iconic structures, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.

The Parthenon is the most famous building on the Acropolis and is dedicated to the goddess Athena, who was the patron goddess of Athens. It was built in the 5th century BC and is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek architecture.

The Temple of Athena Nike is a smaller temple located on the southwest corner of the Acropolis. It was built in the 5th century BC and is dedicated to Athena Nike, the goddess of victory.

The Erechtheion is a temple located on the north side of the Acropolis. It was built in the 5th century BC and is dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. The most famous feature of the Erechtheion is the Porch of the Caryatids, which is a series of six female figures that serve as supporting columns.

Visiting the Acropolis is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Athens. The complex is open daily, and visitors can purchase tickets on-site or online. It's recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. 

2.National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the largest and most important archaeological museums in the world, and it is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Greek history and culture. The museum is located in the heart of Athens and houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.

The museum's exhibits cover a period of over 5,000 years of Greek history, from the prehistoric era to the end of the Roman period. The collection includes some of the most famous artifacts in Greek history, such as the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism, as well as a large collection of ancient pottery.

Some of the most important exhibits in the museum include the Bronze Collection, which contains a large number of bronze statues, including the famous Poseidon of Artemision, and the Mycenaean Collection, which features artifacts from the Mycenaean period, including gold masks, weapons, and pottery.

The museum is open daily except for holidays, and admission is free on the first Sunday of every month. Guided tours are also available, and they are an excellent way to learn more about the exhibits and Greek history in general.

3.Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the center of political and commercial activity in Athens during ancient times. Today, it is a large open-air archaeological site located northwest of the Acropolis, and it is one of the top historical attractions in Athens.

The site is home to several important structures, including the Stoa of Attalos, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Odeon of Agrippa. The Stoa of Attalos is a restored building that was used as a marketplace during ancient times, and today, it houses the museum of the Ancient Agora. The museum features exhibits showcasing the daily life and political activities of the Athenians, including pottery, coins, and inscriptions.

The Temple of Hephaestus is a well-preserved ancient Greek temple that was dedicated to the god of metalworking and craftsmanship. It was built in the 5th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved temples in Greece.

The Odeon of Agrippa was a small theater that was built in the 1st century BC and was used for musical performances and political assemblies. Today, only a small portion of the theater remains, but it is still an impressive sight to behold.

Visiting the Ancient Agora is a fascinating way to learn about ancient Athenian life and history, and the site is open daily except for holidays. Guided tours are available, and they are an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site.

4.Plaka

Plaka is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in Athens, located just below the Acropolis. It is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The neighborhood is home to several cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, as well as a number of historic landmarks, including the Lysicrates Monument, the Tower of the Winds, and the Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea.

The Lysicrates Monument is a small circular building that was erected in the 4th century BC to commemorate a victory in a theatrical competition. It is one of the best-preserved monuments of its kind in Greece and features intricate carvings and sculptures.

The Tower of the Winds is an ancient clocktower that was built in the 1st century BC. It is an impressive structure that features carvings of the eight winds, and it was used to tell time and predict the weather.

The Church of Panaghia Kapnikarea is a Byzantine church that dates back to the 11th century. It is one of the oldest churches in Athens and is known for its beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

Exploring Plaka is a popular activity for visitors to Athens, and it is a great place to get a taste of traditional Greek culture and cuisine. The neighborhood is easily accessible by foot or public transportation and is open to visitors year-round.

5.Monastiraki

Monastiraki is a lively neighborhood located in the heart of Athens, and it is known for its vibrant street markets, antique shops, and historic landmarks. The neighborhood is situated just below the Acropolis and is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.

One of the most popular attractions in Monastiraki is the Monastiraki Flea Market, which is a large open-air market that sells a wide variety of goods, including antiques, souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. The market is open daily and is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.

Another popular attraction in Monastiraki is the Hadrian's Library, which is a large Roman-era library that was built in the 2nd century AD. Today, only a few columns and some of the walls remain, but the site is still an impressive sight to behold.

Monastiraki is also home to several other historic landmarks, including the Tzistarakis Mosque, the Roman Agora, and the Stoa of Attalos. These landmarks offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Athens.

In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Monastiraki is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes offering a variety of dining and entertainment options.

Overall, Monastiraki is a must-visit neighborhood for anyone traveling to Athens, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

6.Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is a central square located in the heart of Athens, the capital city of Greece. It is one of the most important and busiest squares in Athens and serves as a transportation hub, as well as a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

Syntagma Square is surrounded by many important buildings, such as the Greek Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne. The square is also adjacent to the bustling Ermou Street, which is one of the main shopping streets in Athens.

One of the main attractions of Syntagma Square is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier every hour on the hour. This traditional ceremony is performed by the Presidential Guard, also known as the Evzones, who wear traditional Greek costumes and perform a series of synchronized movements.

Overall, Syntagma Square is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Athens, as it offers a unique glimpse into the city's history and culture, as well as its bustling modern-day life.

7.Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus is a hill located in the center of Athens, Greece, standing at 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level. It is one of the highest points in the city and provides a panoramic view of Athens, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Visitors can reach the top of the hill by taking a funicular railway or by hiking up a steep trail. At the summit, there is a chapel dedicated to St. George and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal with stunning views of Athens and the surrounding areas.

Mount Lycabettus is also home to a theater that hosts a variety of concerts and other cultural events throughout the year. Additionally, the hill is surrounded by a park with walking paths, benches, and a playground for children.

Overall, Mount Lycabettus offers a unique opportunity to experience Athens from a different perspective and to take in the city's beauty and charm. Whether you choose to hike up the hill or take the funicular, the views from the top are sure to leave a lasting impression.

8.Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is a museum in Athens, Greece, that was founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis, a Greek collector and philanthropist. The museum's collection spans over 9,000 years of Greek history, from ancient times to the present day, and includes a wide range of art and artifacts.

The museum's permanent collection is organized into several thematic exhibitions, including ancient Greek art, Byzantine art, Islamic art, and modern Greek art. The museum also has collections of traditional Greek costumes, jewelry, and decorative arts, as well as a large collection of photographs.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Benaki Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by contemporary artists, as well as historical and cultural exhibitions.

The Benaki Museum has several branches throughout Greece, including the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art, the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, and the Benaki Museum Pireos Street Annexe, which is dedicated to contemporary art and design.

Overall, the Benaki Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Greek history, culture, and art. Its diverse collections provide a comprehensive overview of the country's rich and complex heritage, and offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore Greece's past and present.

In conclusion, Athens is a city that boasts a rich history, culture, and beauty. From ancient ruins to modern architecture, there's no shortage of amazing places to visit in this vibrant city.

The eight places we've highlighted in this blog are just a few of the many amazing destinations that Athens has to offer. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient history, admiring stunning views, or experiencing Greek cuisine and culture, Athens is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So if you're planning a trip to Athens, be sure to consider visiting these top destinations. And who knows, you may even discover some hidden gems along the way!