Visitors planning a short vacation to Greece face a challenge: What can you realistically and affordably cover in a week to ten days? There’s Athens, the capital city and home to the Acropolis. Then, there are the islands, each with uniqueness and attractions. After much research, my wife and I landed on Athens and Santorini. The logic was simple. A nine-hour direct flight from Toronto to Athens, Greece, saved transit time. Also, the vibe of cities in faraway countries fascinates us.
Santorini was easy! Who doesn’t want to see the white-washed buildings with blue domes?
The the top three island destinations in contention were: Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
This post is my take on the top things to see and do in Athens. Since pictures are worth a thousand words, check out the Web Story within this post.
In the heart of Greece lies Athens, the storied capital that boasts ancient history and modern charm. The iconic Acropolis is its main draw. The name Acropolis, which stands for “The highest point in the city,” refers to a group of ancient buildings standing atop a hill. The Parthenon, the Propylaea, and the Erechtheion are the more famous architectural structures in the Acropolis that keep the tales of ancient gods and heroes alive.
The fall season (September-October) is a great time to visit Greece. Crowds start dwindling, and the weather turns milder, providing a more relaxed overall experience.
So, here are the top things to see and do in Athens.
Sights
Acropolis
The Acropolis is one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. The group of old structures on top of the Acropolis and the famed Parthenon stands sentinel over Athens, visible everywhere within the city.
Propylaea
The Propylaea is a monumental gateway that serves as the entrance to the Acropolis. During the tail-end of the tourist season, it is a great place to take photos and admire the ancient architecture.
Parthenon
The impressive Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and is one of the world’s most famous and recognized ancient buildings. It is located on the Acropolis.
Erechtheion
Located on the Acropolis, the Erechtheion, is a temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. It is known for its unique architecture and beautiful carvings, including four graceful female statues acting as temple pillars.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The stone Roman theatre structure on the southwest slope of the Acropolis was the third to be built in the city. It is considered distinctively Roman in contrast to the nearby Theatre of Dionysos.
Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is a modern museum that houses artifacts from the Acropolis and surrounding areas. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Greek history.
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is a bustling spot in the heart of Athens and is within walking distance of major attractions like the Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki, and the National Garden. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the city.
The Parliament Building
The Hellenic Parliament Building is a neoclassical structure that was previously the Old Royal Palace overlooking Syntagma Square. The hourly changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Parliament Building is a big tourist attraction.
Monastiraki Square
Monastiraki Square is a vibrant area known for its flea market, tavernas, and street performers. It is a great place to experience the local culture and food.
Olympic Stadium
The Olympic Stadium in Athens holds immense historical significance as the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. With its elegant white marble structure and enduring legacy, it stands as a symbol of athletic excellence and the spirit of the Olympic movement. During the morning jogging slot (7:30-9:00), visitors are allowed to do a lap around its tracks!
National Archaeological Museum
This museum is one of Athens’ top attractions and houses the world’s finest collection of Greek antiquities.
Experiences
Plaka
Plaka is a historic neighborhood in Athens known for its shopping and tavernas. It is a great place to explore, shop, and experience the local culture. Linen clothing is big among visitors to Greece, with many stores prominently displaying their wares along the narrow streets of Plaka.
Metropolitan Cathedral
Not far from Syntagma Square, the Metropolitan Cathedral is a beautiful Greek Orthodox church in the heart of Athens. It is a great place to visit for those interested in religious history.
The Port of Piraeus
The main port, Piraeus, acts as the city’s gateway to the various islands in Greece, with daily ferry crossings to the Saronic islands, the Cyclades, Crete, and other islands. It is the largest ferry port in Greece and one of the largest in the world.
Food
Athens is known for its delicious food, including traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, dolmades, kebabs, and tzatziki. There are many restaurants and tavernas throughout the city where you can try these dishes. Numerous hotels offer rooftop restaurants and bars, which offer stunning views of the Acropolis.
Athens is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many attractions and experiences to enjoy. Whether you are interested in ancient history, local culture, or delicious food, the city has something for everyone.
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