Athens

Accomodation

Finding accommodation in Athens is relatively easy, with options for every budget. The city center provides a variety of hotels, ranging from luxurious to more affordable ones. Staying in areas like Plaka, Monastiriaki, Syntagma Square (and generally around the Acropolis) ensures proximity to major landmarks and attractions. For a more authentic experience, consider booking a room in a traditional guesthouse in one of the other older neighborhoods, such as: Thiseio, Psyri, Koukaki.

Transportation

Athens also offers convenient and efficient transportation options. The city boasts an extensive metro system that connects various neighborhoods and key attractions, making it easy to get around the city. Additionally, buses and trams provide excellent coverage, offering convenient access to different parts of Athens. Consider purchasing daily tickets or multi-day passes for unlimited use of public transportation.

Eat

Athens is a culinary paradise, providing a wide array of dining options. Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in the city, is known for its traditional Greek tavernas and charming outdoor seating. Here, you can indulge in delicious Greek dishes like “moussaka,” “souvlaki“, and “spanakopita“. For a more modern and trendy dining experience, head to areas like Kolonaki or Psyri, where you’ll find contemporary restaurants serving both Greek and international cuisines.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Athens is vibrant and diverse. Popular areas for enjoying drinks and entertainment include Gazi and Exarcheia, which are known for their lively bars and clubs. While in Athens, don’t miss the chance to try some famous Greek drinks like “ouzo” and “tsipouro“. Additionally, the city has many rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the Acropolis and the city’s skyline.

Shopping

Shopping enthusiasts will be delighted with the options in Athens. Ermou Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue, is a shopping paradise with a mix of international brands and local boutiques. For a more unique and artisanal shopping experience, visit Monastiraki Flea Market, where you can find vintage items, souvenirs, and traditional Greek crafts. Of course, strolling at least once along the Plaka district is a must.

Day Trips

Athens serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations. Consider taking a day trip to the ancient site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its archaeological significance. You can also visit the beautiful Saronic Islands, such as Aegina or Hydra, for a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Delphi: Day Tour from Athens
• Hydra, Poros and Aegina: Day Cruise + Lunch from Athens
• Athens to Meteora: Day Trip by Train in English or Spanish

Overall, Athens captivates visitors with its rich history, ancient landmarks, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, contemporary art, or simply savoring delicious Greek cuisine, this city offers a captivating and memorable experience that seamlessly blends the old with the new.

In the cradle of ancient civilization, Athens emerged as a beacon of wisdom and democracy. With roots dating back to the Neolithic period, the area surrounding Athens was inhabited as early as the 6th millennium BCE. The city’s mythical origins are attributed to the legendary King Cecrops, who is said to have established the first settlements atop the Acropolis hill. Over time, Athens grew into a bustling metropolis, benefiting from its strategic location as a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange.

During the Bronze Age, Athens flourished under the Mycenaeans, who left behind impressive archaeological remnants. The city’s transformation accelerated during the 6th century BCE, with the introduction of democracy and reforms by Solon, laying the groundwork for its future greatness.

The Golden Age of Athens unfolded during the 5th century BCE, an era of unparalleled intellectual, artistic, and political achievements. The visionary leadership of statesmen like Pericles propelled Athens to new heights. Pericles’ ambitious building program gave rise to architectural marvels such as the Parthenon, the iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, crowning the Acropolis. It embodied the pinnacle of Athenian artistic and engineering prowess.

Athens became a beacon of knowledge and philosophical inquiry, thanks to luminaries like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. These influential thinkers laid the foundation for Western philosophy, impacting generations to come. The Athenian democratic system set an example for governance, with citizens actively participating in decision-making processes.

With the decline of the Roman Empire, Athens entered the Byzantine era in the 4th century CE. During this period, the city became an important center of Christian worship and culture. Magnificent churches, such as the Church of the Holy Apostles, adorned the cityscape. The influential theological school in Athens attracted scholars and further solidified the city’s intellectual reputation.

Despite periods of political and social turbulence, Athens remained a significant cultural and artistic hub throughout Byzantine rule. Byzantine emperors embellished the city with new structures and fortifications, leaving their mark on the urban landscape.

In 1458, Athens fell under Ottoman rule, marking a significant transition in its history. The Ottoman Empire introduced new architectural influences, leading to the construction of mosques, hammams (bathhouses), and other structures. The iconic Tzistarakis Mosque, with its distinct Ottoman design, stands as a reminder of this era.

Despite the foreign influence, Athens managed to preserve elements of its Hellenistic and Byzantine heritage, creating a unique blend of cultures. The Ottoman occupation brought about social and economic changes, shaping the city’s identity for centuries to come.

The 19th century witnessed a revival for Athens, fueled by Greece’s War of Independence in 1821. As the capital of the newly established Greek state, Athens experienced a significant transformation. King Otto, the first modern monarch, initiated an ambitious urban planning project, known as the “City Beautiful” plan, which aimed to transform Athens into a modern European capital.

Architectural wonders emerged during this period, including the National Library, the University, and the Academy of Athens, all inspired by neoclassical design. The city’s skyline changed dramatically as new avenues, parks, and squares were created, reflecting the ideals of the era.

Today, Athens stands as a vibrant and dynamic city, where ancient ruins coexist harmoniously with contemporary attractions. The Acropolis, with its iconic Parthenon, serves as a testament to Athens’ rich history. The National Archaeological Museum showcases a wealth of artifacts