Athens is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Every year, millions of people visit Athens to see its ancient ruins, enjoy the Mediterranean climate, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. Check this Athens tourism guide to know more about the top attractions.
If you’re planning a trip to Athens, be sure to check out this tourism guide. We’ll cover everything from where to stay and what to eat, to the best things to see and do in Athens.
There are also plenty of great places to eat and drink in Athens. From traditional Greek tavernas to trendy bars and restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
And of course, no trip to Athens would be complete without visiting some of its famous archaeological sites. The Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Parthenon are just a few of the must-see attractions in Athens. These are the best tourist attractions in Greece Athens.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Athens today!
- The Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It was here that the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other famous buildings were constructed. The Acropolis was also the site of several important events in Ancient Greek history, such as the Peloponnesian War and the Persians’ failed siege of the city. Today, the Acropolis is a major tourist destination and one of Greece’s most recognizable landmarks.
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympieion or Columns of the Olympian Zeus, is a colossal ruined temple in the centre of Athens that was dedicated to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods. Construction began in the 6th century BC during the rule of the Athenian tyrants, who envisaged building the greatest temple in the ancient world, but it was not completed until the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, some 650 years later.
The temple’s glory was short-lived, as it was sacked just a few years after its completion by the Heruli in AD 267. The temple nonetheless remained an iconic symbol of Ancient Greece and Athens itself for centuries,
- Parthenon
The Parthenon is a massive ancient Greek temple that was built in honor of the goddess Athena. It is located on the Acropolis of Athens and is one of the most famous buildings in the world. The Parthenon was constructed between 447 and 438 BC and is considered to be one of the finest examples of classical Greek architecture. It has been extensively damaged over the centuries, but has been restored to its former glory in recent years. The Parthenon is a symbol of Ancient Greece and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Athens.
- Athens Archaeological Museum
The Athens Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece. It houses some of the most important artifacts from Greek antiquity, including the world-famous statues of the Kouros and Kore of the Acropolis. The museum also has an extensive collection of pottery, coins, and other artifacts from ancient Greece.
The museum is located in central Athens, near the Acropolis. It is open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free for EU citizens, and reduced for non-EU citizens.
- Ancient Agora of Athens
The Ancient Agora of Athens was the central marketplace of the city during its Classical period. The Agora served as a gathering place for Athenians to meet and discuss the latest news and politics. It was also where people would buy and sell goods. The Ancient Agora was located at the foot of the Acropolis.
The first buildings in the Ancient Agora were built in the 7th century BC. These early structures were made of wood and mud brick. Over time, more permanent buildings were constructed out of stone. The most important building in the Ancient Agora was the Temple of Hephaestus, which was built in 449 BC. This temple was dedicated to the god Hephaestus,
- Hadrian’s Library
Hadrian’s Library was a public library in Rome built by the Emperor Hadrian in 135 AD. It is one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. The library was part of a larger complex which included temples, gardens, and a theatre.
The library was built on the site of an older library that had been burned down during Julius Caesar’s reign. Hadrian’s Library consisted of three main halls, each with its own entrance. {Also Read: expensive mumbai} The main hall contained shelves for books, while the other two halls were used for lecture rooms.
- Roman Market (Agora)
The Roman Market, or Agora, was the center of commerce in ancient Rome. Located in the heart of the city, the market was a bustling place where merchants sold their goods and services. There was a wide variety of merchandise available, from food and clothing to furniture and pottery. The market was also a great place to socialize and meet new people.
- Kerameikos Archaeological Site
Kerameikos was an important archaeological site in Athens, Greece, located to the northwest of the Acropolis. It was the site of a cemetery and potters’ quarter in ancient times, and is now an important tourist destination. The name comes from the Greek word for “potter” (keramos).
The cemetery at Kerameikos was used from the early Bronze Age until the end of the Classical period. It is best known for its richly decorated tombstones, many of which are on display in the Kerameikos Archaeological Museum.
- National Gardens of Athens
The National Gardens of Athens are a public park located in the center of the Greek capital. The gardens date back to the 19th century and cover an area of approximately 15 hectares. The gardens feature a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as a number of sculptures and fountains. The National Gardens are a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and offer a respite from the busy city streets.
- Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus is a cone-shaped hill in Athens, Greece and at 908 feet (277 meters), it is the city’s highest point. Visitors can hike to the top for panoramic views of Athens or take the funicular railway. The hill is also home to the 19th-century Chapel of St. George, as well as several restaurants and cafes. Mount Lycabettus is a popular spot for watching sunsets and offers visitors a unique perspective of Athens.
These are the top 10 Athens Greece tourist spots you must visit when you are visiting Athens. Otherwise, your Athens Greece tours will be incomplete. Explore these historical places and cultures of ancient Europe.
