A real treat for lovers of history, especially the period of antiquity. Many come to Athens with high expectations, but the Greek capital blows them away in no time with a series of magnificent ancient buildings.
The best things to do in Athens go beyond the city's illustrious history. Many have a hard time deciding what they will be more impressed by: mighty ancient buildings or delicious Greek cuisine? The choice is yours. Athens is without a shadow of a doubt one of the oldest cities in the world, as evidenced by the archaeological treasures and the mighty Acropolis. The city is dotted with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, so visiting Athens feels like a step back in time. A wonderful history lesson. Immerse yourself in this cradle of Western civilization and birthplace of democracy, watched over by the goddess Athena. The Greeks believe that Athena and Poseidon used to compete for the patronage of Athens. During their battle, Poseidon struck the ground with his trident and a spring of salt water sprang up. Athena hit the ground with a rock and an olive tree grew in that place. Both cities are honored with temples built on the Acropolis.
When to Athens?
The best times to visit Athens are between March and May and between September and November. The weather in these spring and autumn months is pleasant, as you are caressed by the gentle sun, and it is also much less crowded than in summer.
Photo: Unsplash/Sergio GarciaWhat should I see in Athens?
Above the center of Athens rises the Acropolis, a fortified limestone plateau with Parthenonm and many other historical monuments. An icon of the Greek capital and a place where philosophers questioned the universe. Democracy and freedom of speech were born here. Temples were built here in honor of the Greek gods. The Acropolis is a place full of sights, from the most famous Parthenon to the temples of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Theater of Dionysus.
The Parthenon is the central temple of the Athenian Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena. It was built in the 5th century BC. n. no. and is one of the most famous achievements of ancient architecture. In the Acropolis Museum, you can see artifacts found on the Acropolis and the surrounding slopes. If you miss greenery on the rocky Acropolis, you can find it in the Cultural Center Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNFCC), in an oasis of Mediterranean greenery. In the 170,000 square meters of the park, you can find a series of gardens, playgrounds, cafes and even the Greek National Library. A wonderful view of the Acropolis extends from here.
Photo: Unsplash/Constantinos KolliasAthens really has no shortage of treats for fans of Greek mythology. The Temple of Poseidon is dedicated to the god of the oceans, although it stands 60 m above sea level on Cape Sounio. The marble temple was built by the ancient Athenians in honor of Poseidon, with the intention of guiding sailors home safely. Hill of Lycabettus is one of the highest peaks in Athens. A climb up a wooded slope leads you to the top, but if you don't feel like walking, you can go up there by cable car. At the top you will find one of the most stunning views of the city.
Here you can find some restaurants and lively events, but if you want to eat like a local, check it out Varvakios Agora. The indoor and outdoor food market in the city's Monastiraki area delights all the senses. Greek vendors offer their best products from the early hours, and the atmosphere here surpasses many European markets. You are tempted to explore the neighborhoods. Check out Plaka, which stretches under the shadow of the Acropolis and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhoods in the world. Immerse yourself in the colorful houses here and explore the charming narrow old streets.
Photo: Unsplash/Mert ErbilHow to explore Athens?
Although modern Athens stretches from the sea to the mountains, the city center, where most of the ancient sites cluster around the Acropolis, is compact and accessible on foot. However, if you want to explore the outlying neighborhoods of Athens, public transportation is fairly affordable and easy, especially if you download some n. Regardless of whether navigation applications. Athens otherwise has a single ticket system, so you can use the same ticket or pass for the metro system, bus, tram and commuter rail within the metro area.
How much is a plane ticket to Athens?
You can fly from Brnik to Athens with Aegean Airlines for 154 euros. If you have no problem driving to Venice, you can find flight tickets with Volotea for as little as 50 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Pat WhelenCovid-19 restrictions in Athens
In May, Greece relaxed all restrictions on entry into the country. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Athens
Emporikon Athens Hotel
The hotel is located in the very center of the city, in the immediate vicinity of Agia Irini square. The neoclassical building from the 19th century was remodeled for the needs of hotel services, and the rooms offer views of the Acropolis. The rooms are equipped with TVs and minibars, and the location is especially appealing to travelers traveling as a couple.
Noma Hotel
The hotel boasts an excellent location in the heart of the city, just a two-minute walk from Monastiraki Square. The air-conditioned rooms are also equipped with a desk and a minibar, and a continental breakfast is served every morning.
