Athens
A full Guide For Ultimate Adventure
Hey, travellers, let me take you on an incredible journey to Athens. A city that truly stole my heart. A city which is a perfect blend of history and modern glamour. In this blog post, I’ll take you through some of the must-visit attractions, delectable culinary experiences, and vibrant neighbourhoods that make Athens a traveler’s paradise. If you are looking for a guided tour, then I would recommend booking with Alternative Athens for an exceptional adventure. Click here to find out more about Athens gastronomy.
Where every corner is a chapter in the book of adventure
Where To Stay In Athens
I stayed in Electra Metropolis, a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Athens. From the moment I entered, I was blown away by the timeless luxury and sophistication. The impeccable service and the staff, with their warmth and professionalism, elevated my stay to a level of comfort that surpassed my expectations. The room is elegantly appointed with modern amenities and the view from the window is just incredible.
One of the highlights of the hotel was the rooftop terrace. The stunning views of the Acropolis were incomparable. The breakfast with a view is something which can’t be missed; they presented a delectable fusion of traditional Greek dishes and international cuisine. And the cherry on the top was the rooftop pool. Click here to find out more.
Places to Visit in Athens
The Acropolis of Athens
It is an ancient citadel that stands majestically atop the city. The word ‘acropolis‘ is a combination of two Greek words: ‘akron,’ meaning highest or topmost, and ‘polis,’ meaning city. As you ascend to the top of the hill, you will witness several ancient architectural buildings of great historic significance.
One such structure is the Theatre of Dionysus, the birthplace of Greek drama, comprised of a semi-circular arrangement of stone seats, hinting at the gatherings of enthusiastic spectators. Moving on, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an impressive amphitheatre built in 161 AD. It was originally used for concerts, with seating for 5,000 audiences. The area has been restored and is now used for concerts, which become lively during the summer.
Further ascending you will encounter the Propylaea, an imposing gateway that serves as the monumental entrance to the Acropolis. Moving beyond, the majestic Parthenon comes into view. It is a former temple that was dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC and is the most famous example of the use of real marble on the Acropolis .
To the left, are the graceful Caryatids of the Erechtheion, these female figures, serving as columns, add a touch of elegance to the temple. Continuing along the pathways is the Temple of Athena Nike. Perched on a high platform offers a stunning view of the surroundings. This also served as a symbol of victory.
The Little kook
It is a whimsical establishment that has taken the art of theme decoration to a whole new level. What makes this place even more special is its ever-changing and fantastical theme, transforming the cafe into a fairy tale wonderland. It’s like stepping into a storybook, a facade that seems to have emerged straight from the pages of a fairy tale adorned with vibrant colours, oversized props, and intricate decorations. The cafe undergoes stunning transformations throughout the year, aligning its décor with various seasons, holidays, or even fictional worlds.
The establishment is also renowned for its diverse menu of delicious treats. The café typically serves a variety of desserts, beverages, and light bites, including cakes, pastries, cupcakes, cookies, macaroons, coffee, tea, hot chocolates, sandwiches, snacks, and breakfast items. The place is generally overcrowded due to its popularity and aesthetic-themed decorations, and it is open daily from 9 am until midnight. I would recommend visiting this place during a trip to Athens.
The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum is designed with a glass floor, offering glimpses of the ongoing excavations of the ancient city below. It is organised across multiple floors and is designed to accommodate many artefacts from the Acropolis and its surrounding areas. It is mainly constructed with three main levels and two intermediate levels, covering an overall area of 23,000 square meters on the full site.
The Parthenon Gallery, located on the top floor, displays the marble and sculptures from the Parthenon, also offering a panoramic view of the Acropolis and modern Athens. The first large gallery incorporates a glass-floored ramp, mirroring the Acropolis’s incline, showcasing the archaeological findings from this historical site. The first floor, characterized by its high ceiling, features artefacts from the Archaic Acropolis and also highlights sculptures from the Athena Nike temple and the Erechtheion, along with architectural elements from the Propylaia. The museum also comprises a cafe and shop to grab a quick bite or snacks and shop for souvenirs.
The Panathenaic Stadium
It is also known as Kallimarmaro, is the only stadium in the world entirely built with marble. It was originally constructed in 330 BC and was later reconstructed in marble in 144 AD with a capacity of 50,000 seats. In 1869, the stadium was excavated and after being refurbished it hosted the first modern Olympic games in 1896.
The stadium is now open daily for tourists from 8 am, with a general admission fee of €10. It is situated near historical landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and is easily accessible by public transport. I highly recommend visiting this place not only for its rich history and marvellous white marble architecture but also for the excellent photo opportunities and panoramic views of the city it offers.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC)
SNFCC is a cultural complex situated in the Kallithea district of Athens, officially inaugurated in 2016. It is easily accessible from the city centre of Athens via public transportation, including buses and the Metro.
The complex covers a vast area and houses the Greek National Opera, the National Library, and the Stavros Niarchos Park. The Opera features a tiered seating arrangement that ensures optimal visibility of the stage from every seat. The stunning interior, adorned with rich red-coloured velvet seats and a mini-screen embedded in each seat, offers an incredible experience to the audience.
The National Library comprises diverse collections of books, manuscripts, and other materials. Its large windows allow natural light to illuminate the interior while protective coating controls exposure to direct sunlight. The panoramic steps, designed by the architect Renzo Piano offer stunning views of the city and are especially delightful during summer nights.
The SNFCC is unique in that it was conceived as a public space, and many of its facilities are open to the public free of charge. Throughout the year, they host a diverse array of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibitions, and Christmas light displays. The inclusion of the ice rink adds a magical winter activity.
Lively street of Athens
A stroll around the lively street is also a must-do activity. One of my favourites is Monastiraki Square, surrounded by vibrant cafes and shops. The rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the Acropolis, is located near the square. I like Hyperastrobar because it is not too pricey, and the views from the top are just incredible. Adjacent to Monastiraki is Athens’ famous flea market, where you can discover an eclectic mix of vintage items, antiques, and narrow lanes lined with colourful trinkets.
The cobblestone streets of Plaka offer a serene contrast to the lively Monastiraki. Famous for its quaint tavernas, cute cafes, and boutique shops lining the narrow lanes. The vibrant neighbourhood of Psiri is known for its lively nightlife, where you can also enjoy traditional Greek food in the outdoor seating cafes. Finally, a hidden gem called Anafiotika is characterized by its whitewashed houses and narrow alleys.
Maria Callas Museum
This Museum was constructed as a tribute to one of the legendary opera singers of the 20th century. It provides a multimedia experience with audio and video recordings showcasing Maria Callas’s exceptional vocal talent. The museum focuses on presenting the true personality of the Diva and dispelling any myths or misconceptions about her. It displays some of her personal belongings and chronicles the timeless journey of the biography of the legendary singer.
