Discover Athens: Ancient History and Modern City Life
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Description
Athens’ heyday was around 400 years BC, that’s when most of the classical monuments were built. During the Byzantine and Turkish periods the city decayed into just an insignificant little village, only to become the capital of the newly-liberated Greece in 1833. Ahead of the 2004 Olympics, almost the entire infrastructure was transformed: the Metro, trams, new ring roads and viaducts have eased the pressure of heavy traffic. Athens is still a rather messy and chaotic place — it wouldn’t be Athens otherwise — and despite all the improvements, it still retains a great deal of its original charm. The whole coastal stretch from Piraeus to the old Hellenikon airport has been improved with new plantings, viaducts and paths for walking. The Plaka district is becoming more and more popular and it is on the way to catching up with Psyrri, Gazi and Rouf when it comes to restaurants and cafes. Discover the beauties of the Anafiotika district, at the feet of the Acropolis, and visit the ancient village still housed in the midst of the city. In Exarchia, there is a somewhat in-your-face anarchic atmosphere around the Technical University. Meanwhile, Kolonaki is becoming more and more gentrified.
Useful information
3.155 million (2025)
Euro (EUR, €)
Police: 100
Fire & Rescue: 199
Ambulance: 166
Shops are generally open Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays from 9am to 3pm; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday are siesta days, which means businesses are open from 9am to 2pm and from 5:30pm to 9pm. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Department stores have more regular opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 9pm.
Do & See
Dining
Cafés
Bars & Nightlife
Shopping
Tourist Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Athens is renowned for its ancient landmarks. The Acropolis, with the Parthenon, is a must-see for its historical significance and stunning views. The Ancient Agora offers insights into daily life in ancient Greece, while the Temple of Olympian Zeus showcases grand architecture. Don't miss the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games.
A stay of 3 to 4 days in Athens is ideal to explore its main attractions. This allows time for visiting historical sites like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, exploring neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, and enjoying local cuisine and culture. Additional time can be used for day trips to nearby destinations like Cape Sounion or Delphi.
Athens has an efficient public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams, which is the best way to get around. The metro is particularly useful for reaching major attractions. Taxis are also widely available and affordable. For a more local experience, consider walking through the city's historic neighborhoods.
Athens offers a variety of traditional Greek dishes. Be sure to try souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), moussaka (a layered eggplant and meat dish), and spanakopita (spinach pie). For dessert, try baklava, a sweet pastry made with nuts and honey. Pair your meals with a glass of ouzo, a traditional Greek spirit.
The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These months also avoid the peak summer tourist crowds and high temperatures, making it more comfortable to explore the city's outdoor attractions.
Athens hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival, held from June to August, features performances of music, theater, and dance. The Athens Marathon in November is a major event, tracing the route from Marathon to Athens. Easter is also a significant time, with various religious and cultural celebrations.
Athens has several vibrant neighborhoods worth exploring. Plaka, the city's oldest district, is known for its charming streets and neoclassical architecture. Monastiraki is famous for its flea market and lively atmosphere. Psiri offers a trendy vibe with its cafes and nightlife, while Kolonaki is known for upscale shopping and dining.
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