The most significant archaeological sites in Europe may be found in Athens, a four-million metropolis that is lively and vibrant but also ancient and modern at the same time. The capital of Greece has a wealth of unique materials that may occupy tourists for days. To that end, here are some tips on how to enjoy Athens to the fullest!
Acropolis
The Acropolis of Athens is conserved as a global emblem of the classical spirit and human civilization and is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Indeed, it would be impossible to visit Athens and skip the most significant ancient landmark in the Western world because the Acropolis is listed in every travel book, postcard, and list about the city. It is a collection of historic structures, and the Parthenon, which can be seen from practically anywhere in the city, stands as the jewel in the crown of them all.
In addition, the Parthenon, a massive temple with 2,400-year-old Doric columns that make you feel in awe and amazing embellishments carved into the temple, is the most well-known structure on the Acropolis. Given its fame, the Acropolis is always full of curious and inquisitive tourists who are eager to explore it. This, however, can cause huge lines and make it a little bit difficult to reach them. Nevertheless, that should not deter you from visiting it. For example, at acropolistickets.tours/acropolis-tickets-skip-the-line/, you can buy a skip-the-line ticket and enjoy your visit to the Acropolis. This monumental site will certainly make your trip to Greece memorable!
Visit the National Museum of Archaeology
The National Archaeological Museum is a fantastic site to see numerous historically significant artifacts all in one location. It is both the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the most prominent museums devoted to ancient Greek art in the world. More than 11,000 exhibits are currently housed at the museum, which was established in the late 19th century to contain and preserve relics from all across Greece. The earliest exhibits date back to the Neolithic age. The structure is a monument itself: It is a massive, late-19th-century neoclassical structure with dozens of halls on each floor and an amazing collection of exhibits. The very tour of the museum will bring you back into ancient times and make you feel the spirit of the age of antiquity! It is certainly an experience that will make your visit to Athens unforgettable!
Go to the Syntagma Square
The city’s largest plaza, Syntagma, also known as Constitution Square, is where the most significant avenues and streets in Athens begin. The Greek Parliament building, which lies at the center of the plaza, is a popular tourist destination not just for the structure itself but also for the well-known “changing of the guard” that takes place every hour in front of the Unknown Hero statue. The soldiers, who are clad in ancient Greek garb, seem unperturbed by the throng gathered around them. The area hosts concerts and protests frequently since it serves as the city’s geographic center. There are upscale hotels and office buildings all around the square. In addition, Ermou, Athens’ most renowned retail avenue, begins at Syntagma Square. All this makes this place a must-visit to enhance your experience in Athens!
See the Olympic torch
The Greek fire myth is linked to the Olympic torch. The story claims that Prometheus took fire from Zeus so that people might use it. The torch is customarily ignited in the sanctuary of Olympia in the Peloponnese before the opening of the Olympic Games. As previously, the sun’s beams and ladies wearing white who stood in for Zeus’ priestesses used to light the fire. Nowadays, the athletes transport the fire that has been kindled in this manner to the city where the Olympic Games will take place. When the Olympics started, the fire eventually returned to Greece and burned at the Panathinaiko Stadium.
Lycabettus mountain
Lycabettus is Athens’ tallest hill. It is 300 meters above sea level and provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of all of Athens, including the port of Piraeus. In addition to using the elevator, which is free for kids, you may also use the steps to go to the top of the hill.
The Church of St. George, two restaurants, and an outdoor theater are all located on the hill. The theater has hosted renowned international bands and performers for years. The name Lycabettus means, roughly, “where wolves stroll.” Indeed, it is a place that will enhance your overall experience in Athens, so don’t miss it!
Athens is the place where we can touch time and feel its transitoriness. All this makes Athens a great place to visit!