Colorful and bright city with a centuries-old history. The oldest neighborhoods coexist with fashionable resorts, which host numerous tourists in a very hospitable way.
Athens experienced several periods of incredible prosperity and decline. Nowadays the capital of Greece reflects the power of all Hellas. That is a great place where such a number of temple complexes and monuments of architecture can be found. And the turquoise Mediterranean and the best European beaches open unlimited opportunities for recreation.
The main sights of the Greek capital
The phrase, which is very common among many people "Everything is there, in Greece!", is mostly dedicated to Athens. There are magnificent views of the picturesque Greek landscapes from any point of the city. But the most luxurious observation platforms await you in the hills of Acropolis and Lycabettes. It seems you can see the whole of Attica surrounded by mountain ranges, forests and the Aegean Sea.
There are a lot of resort areas in the vicinity. A trip to the Greek capital is the best opportunity to combine an active and undisturbed beach vacation with visiting historical sites. Try to find the time for an excursion to Athens after you have enjoyed the warm and calm sea.
The main attraction of the city and all of Greece is the majestic Acropolis. Hellenic temples on a rocky hill, were built in the 5th century BC, and also they were erected in honor of the gods-patrons of the city and the people. The architectural wonders of Hellas are shrouded in legends and epic tales. And it is nothing more to say because almost every stone here is historical. Majestic ruins come to life, revealing the secrets of antiquity.
The oldest areas of Athens are at the basement of the Acropolis. Walking there, you will see typical houses with flat tiled roofs, an abundance of greenery, fruit trees and flowers. Here, in Plaka and Monastiraki there is an atmosphere that cannot be found in the new prestigious areas. And you will have a unique opportunity to buy real antiques and vintage jewelry.
The main Syntagma Square and the National Park are in the city center. The second name of the "Royal Garden" was not accidental: the large territory is covered with rich vegetation, the alleys are decorated with exquisite sculptures, and the openwork bridges are thrown over picturesque ponds.
The unique museums, famous monuments and ancient buildings can be observed In each district of Athens:
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is in the center;
The marble Panafinese Stadium is in the Kallimarmaro;
You can find Areopagus, the theater of Dionysus in the area of the Acropolis;and also
- an ancient necropolis in Kerameikos.
It is impossible to omit the modern areas of the city, with its unique Kolonaki and Glyfada which are especially prominent. Modern buildings, shopping malls, fashionable hotels and mansions confirm that you are in one of the best European capitals.
Entertainment in Athens
Having a rest in the Greek capital does not mean only excursions and cultural programs. Magnificent restaurants and traditional tavernas will please you with Greek cuisine. Fans of extreme sports will not be bored either. You can organize even diving, paragliding, jeep tours, rafting and much more direct from the city.
When organizing a family holiday, pay attention to entertainment. "Allou Fun Park" is the largest amusement park in the country. In the water park "Copa Copana Park" you will see e waiting for incredible slides and dizzying descents. And in the SEC "Village Entertainment Park" you can watch a movie in the open air, take a walk in the shops and spend time with the children in the games room.
Most of the excursions in Athens are walking. Therefore, make sure you take comfortable shoes and sun protection.
Municipal beaches are free, the fee is charged only for renting sun beds and umbrellas.
If you want to save money buying souvenirs, buy them in the city markets.
You can get to the city by metro, train, bus or taxi from Athens International Airport