Athens is the capital and one of the largest cities in Greece. Known for its historical and cultural riches, Athens has a history that dates back from ancient times to the present day. In this article, you will discover 10 iconic places in Athens that you must see. Get ready, your journey to Athens is about to begin!

The Acropolis:

The Acropolis is one of the most famous and iconic symbols of Athens. As one of the most important structures of ancient Greece, the Acropolis is located on a high point in the city center and boasts a magnificent view. Here are more details about the Acropolis:

Parthenon: The most recognized structure of the Acropolis, the Parthenon is a temple built in the 5th century BC. Dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, this temple features flawless architecture and has become a globally recognized symbol.

Erechtheion: Located next to the Parthenon, the Erechtheion is another temple built in the 5th century BC. Notable for its female columns known as the Caryatids, the Erechtheion is an important example of ancient Greek architecture.

Propylaea: The Propylaea is an ancient entrance structure that greets visitors to the Acropolis. Built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, this structure dazzles with its elegant columns and intricate decorations.

Temple of Athena Nike: Situated right next to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike is dedicated to the goddess of victory, Athena Nike. This magnificent temple was used to celebrate the victories of ancient Greece.

Acropolis Museum: Located on the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum is a modern museum that houses numerous artifacts from the ancient period. The Parthenon friezes, ancient sculptures, and other important works are displayed here for visitors.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a structure used for theater and music performances in ancient times. Still in use today for concerts and other events, this ancient theater has an impressive atmosphere.

Theatre of Dionysus: Located on one of the slopes of the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus is one of the oldest examples of ancient Greek theater. This large open-air theater hosted important performances during ancient times.

The Acropolis is a symbol of Athens’ historical and cultural heritage. This ancient site enchants visitors with its grand architecture, historical significance, and panoramic views. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens, as it offers a perfect opportunity to explore the splendor and beauty of ancient Greece.

Plaka:

Plaka is one of the oldest and most famous neighborhoods in Athens. With its historical texture, narrow streets, traditional Greek houses, and atmosphere, it offers visitors a unique experience. Here are more details about Plaka:

Atmosphere and Historical Texture: Plaka is famous for its unique atmosphere with narrow streets and cobblestone pathways. As you walk through here, you can feel the historical texture and discover many traces of the ancient era.

Anafiotika: Located within Plaka, Anafiotika resembles a Greek island village with its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. It is situated at the foot of the Acropolis and provides a peaceful atmosphere. Exploring Anafiotika allows you to experience the beauty of traditional Greek houses.

Taverns and Restaurants: Plaka is an excellent place to enjoy traditional Greek cuisine. The neighborhood is home to many taverns and restaurants. Here, you can savor delicious Greek dishes, seafood, and mezes (appetizers).

Ancient Agora: The Ancient Agora, located near Plaka, was the center of trade and social life in ancient Athens. Here, you can see ancient ruins and historical structures. The Stoa of Attalos is a noteworthy structure to visit.

Mitropoulos Street: Mitropoulos Street is the main street of Plaka and is ideal for shopping and strolling. Here, you can find souvenirs, handmade products, jewelry, and local items.

View from Anafiotika: From the Anafiotika area in Plaka, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Particularly, looking at the city from the slope of the Acropolis offers an unforgettable experience. You can capture beautiful photos and immortalize your memories.

Museums: Plaka is also home to several important museums. In particular, the Plaka Museum is a museum that showcases traditional costumes, crafts, and other historical artifacts. These museums allow you to get a closer look at Greek culture and history.

Plaka is a neighborhood where you can feel the historical and cultural fabric of Athens, discover traces of the ancient era as you wander its streets. With its atmosphere, restaurants, and historical sites, it offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

Monastiraki Market:

Monastiraki Market is one of the most famous and vibrant markets in Athens. Known for its historical and colorful atmosphere, this market offers visitors various shopping opportunities and street delicacies. Here is more information about Monastiraki Market:

Shopping: Monastiraki Market is a large shopping area where you can find antique items, handmade products, jewelry, clothing, and much more. You can explore and discover unique and interesting items as you wander around. Particularly, various antique shops have great appeal for antique lovers.

Street Market: On Sundays, the open-air street market set up in the main square of Monastiraki is a colorful place where local products are sold. Here, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, and other local products. It is a place frequented by the locals for shopping and meeting their daily needs.

Food Stalls and Restaurants: Around Monastiraki Market, you will find many food stalls and restaurants offering street food and traditional Greek cuisine. You can enjoy delicious snacks like gyro, souvlaki, suvlaki, and immerse yourself in a Greek culinary feast.

Historical Ambiance: Monastiraki Market is located in a historical area with ancient ruins and significant structures around. You can see the remains of the Agora and experience shopping in an impressive atmosphere with traces of the ancient era.

Entertainment and Vibrancy: Monastiraki is a lively area both day and night. The cafes, bars, and restaurants around the market offer visitors opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. Especially during the summer months, the outdoor spaces of Monastiraki come alive with live music and events.

Monastiraki Market is an energetic and colorful spot in Athens. It is an ideal place to shop, taste local delicacies, and feel the historical atmosphere. It is recommended for everyone visiting Athens to explore Monastiraki Market.

Ermou Street:

Ermou Street is one of the most famous and vibrant shopping streets in Athens. Located in the heart of the city, this street is a shopping area with numerous stores, boutiques, brands, and restaurants. Here is more information about Ermou Street:

Shopping: Ermou Street is famous for its variety of stores in different categories such as fashion, clothing, shoes, cosmetics, and accessories. You can find both international brands and products by local designers. The lined-up stores on both sides of the street offer visitors a wide range of shopping options.

Trends and Fashion: Ermou Street is an ideal place for those who want to keep up with trends and stay in touch with the fashion world. The latest fashion collections, the newest trends of the season, and style tips can be discovered here. You can browse through the stores and find clothing that suits your own style.

Cafes and Restaurants: Ermou Street offers many options for cafes and restaurants to relax and recharge during shopping. Here, you can taste the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine as well as international cuisines. The cafes and restaurants in the side streets of the main street are also worth exploring.

Lively Atmosphere: Ermou Street has a lively and bustling atmosphere throughout the year. While strolling along the street, you can see street artists, musicians, and performances. Especially during the summer months, the events and festivals organized on the street create enjoyable moments for visitors.

Proximity to Touristic Sites: Ermou Street is located close to important tourist sites in Athens. You can reach places like Monastiraki Square, Plaka, and Syntagma Square on foot. This provides easy access to other tourist areas while exploring Ermou Street.

Ermou Street is an essential destination for shopping enthusiasts. It offers an ideal shopping experience for those seeking fashion, style, flavors, and vibrancy. It is recommended for everyone visiting Athens to visit Ermou Street, whether for shopping, experiencing the atmosphere, or simply enjoying the vibe.

The National Archaeological Museum:

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Athens. It showcases Greece’s rich cultural heritage from ancient times and houses many significant artifacts. Here is more information about the National Archaeological Museum:

Collection: The National Archaeological Museum hosts a vast collection dating back thousands of years to the ancient period. This collection includes archaeological findings from various regions of Greece. Ancient sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, frescoes, and many other artifacts are exhibited here.

Masks: One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Mycenaean Masks, also known as the Gold Masks. Particularly, the Mask of Agamemnon is one of the most valuable treasures from ancient Greece. These masks played a significant role in ancient Greek mythology.

Ancient Greek Sculptures: The National Archaeological Museum houses numerous ancient Greek sculptures. These include statues of gods and goddesses such as Zeus, Poseidon, Artemis, Athena, and others. These sculptures reflect the beauty and craftsmanship of ancient Greek art.

Ancient Frescoes: Frescoes from the ancient period also form an important part of the museum. These frescoes depict daily life, mythology, and historical events of ancient Greece. Especially, the frescoes from Akrotiri in Santorini are among the notable examples that attract visitors’ attention.

Restoration of Ancient Artifacts: The National Archaeological Museum has played a significant role in the restoration and preservation of many ancient artifacts. Through restoration efforts, the exhibits can be displayed in a way that closely resembles their original appearance and be passed on to future generations.

Journey into the Past: The museum offers visitors an opportunity to embark on a journey into the rich history of ancient Greece. The arrangement of the exhibits, informational panels, and interactive display methods allow visitors to learn more about the history and culture of the ancient period.

The National Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in exploring the captivating world of ancient times. It provides an ideal setting to develop an understanding of Greece’s rich archaeological past and experience the beauty of ancient art and culture. It is recommended for everyone visiting Athens to explore the National Archaeological Museum.

Olympic Stadium:

Olympic Stadium, located in Athens, is a historic stadium that hosted the ancient Olympic Games. It is also known as Panathinaikos Stadium or Kallimarmaro. Here are more details about the Olympic Stadium:

History: The Olympic Stadium is an ancient stadium that was built in the 4th century BCE. It hosted the Panathenaic Games of that era and later many events of the ancient Olympic Games. It was later reconstructed in the 19th century to its present form.

Architecture: The most remarkable feature of the Olympic Stadium is its construction with white marble. This gives the stadium an aesthetic appearance and is a characteristic feature of ancient Greek architecture. The seating capacity of the stadium is approximately 50,000 people.

Panathenaic Games: The Olympic Stadium was the venue for the Panathenaic Games in ancient times. These games were dedicated to the city’s patron goddess, Athena, and were one of the most important sporting events in ancient Greece.

Modern Use: Due to its historical significance and impressive atmosphere, the Olympic Stadium hosts various events today. These include concerts, festivals, sports events, and special occasions. Additionally, it is used as a starting or finishing point for some sports events.

Visitor Experience: Visitors to the Olympic Stadium can trace the footsteps of the ancient Olympic Games and feel the historical atmosphere. You can explore the stadium, see the seating rows, and imagine the track where athletes competed in ancient times. Additionally, you can take a walk in the surrounding areas and explore the surroundings.

The Olympic Stadium is an important site for both history and sports enthusiasts. It is recommended for anyone who wants to experience the spirit of the ancient Olympic Games and delve into Athens’ rich sports history.

Athens Agora:

The Agora is an open-air square and marketplace that served as an important social and commercial center in ancient Greece and Rome. The Agora is divided into two main sections: the Athens Agora and the Roman Agora, both located in Athens. Here are more details about the Agora:

Athens Agora: The Athens Agora was a central square in ancient times, serving as a hub for trade and political discussions. It was also a meeting place for philosophers, scholars, and politicians. The surrounding structures of the Agora include the Stoa of Attalos (Attalos Library), the Temple of Erechtheion, the Bouleuterion (Council House), and the remains of the Agora.

Roman Agora: The Roman Agora is located north of the Athens Agora and was constructed during the Roman Empire. This area was the focal point for commercial and social activities influenced by the Roman Empire. Significant structures within the Agora include the Library of Hadrian, monuments of Tiberius and Julius Caesar, and the Trajan Fountain.

Trade and Market: Agoras served as central hubs for trade and markets in the ancient world. Various merchants, craftsmen, and sellers would offer their goods and services there. Agoras also played an important role in social interaction.

Philosophical Discussions and Scientific Progress: Agoras became centers for philosophical discussions and scientific advancements in ancient Greece. Philosophers, scholars, and students would gather there to share their thoughts and engage in the exchange of knowledge.

Cultural and Social Events: Agoras hosted various cultural and social events such as theater performances, sports activities, and religious festivals. These events brought people together, fostering social interaction and were integral parts of ancient society.

Agoras are significant social, commercial, and cultural centers from ancient Greek and Roman periods. The Athens Agora and the Roman Agora are important sites for visitors seeking to journey into history and trace the footsteps of the ancient world.

The Dionysus Theatre:

The Dionysus Theatre is one of the most important theaters in ancient Greece and is located in Athens. This theater was primarily used for drama and tragedy performances during religious festivals dedicated to Dionysus. Here are more details about the Dionysus Theatre:

History: The construction of the Dionysus Theatre began in the 6th century BC and was gradually developed over time. Initially, the theater had a wooden stage and seating, but it was later reinforced with stone structures.

Location: The theater is situated at the foothills of the Acropolis in the southeastern part of Athens. Its location offers a magnificent view to the audience and enhances the acoustics of the stage. The theater has a seating capacity of approximately 17,000 people.

Stage and Orchestra: The stage of the Dionysus Theatre is where actors performed and narrated stories. The stage is made of large stone blocks and still stands today. In front of the stage, there is an area called the orchestra. The orchestra is a section where choruses would perform their songs and dances.

Tragedy and Drama Performances: The Dionysus Theatre was a significant venue for the representation of tragedy and drama plays in ancient times. Works by renowned playwrights such as Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus were staged in this theater. The theater played a major role in religious festivals dedicated to Dionysus, incorporating theatrical performances into the religious rituals.

Ancient Greek Art: The Dionysus Theatre is an important example of ancient Greek art. Its architecture, acoustics, and structural features reflect the engineering and artistic skills of the ancient era. Additionally, the theater holds a significant place in the origin and development of ancient Greek theater.

The Dionysus Theatre is a symbol of ancient Greek theater and a historical treasure. Its enchanting atmosphere and historical significance offer an impressive experience for anyone interested in exploring the cultural and artistic richness of the ancient world.

Lycabettus Hill:

Lycabettus Hill, located in the center of Athens, is a hill that offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Lycabettus Hill provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and experience the captivating scenery of Athens. Here are more details about Lycabettus Hill:

Location: Lycabettus Hill is situated in the Kolonaki neighborhood, in the center of Athens. It stands out with its proximity to the city center. The height of the hill is approximately 277 meters.

Scenery: Lycabettus Hill serves as an observation point that offers a panoramic view. From the top, one can admire the expansive view of the city, including landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. Especially during sunset or under the city lights at night, enjoying the view can be an unforgettable experience.

Transportation: There are several options to reach Lycabettus Hill. Options such as a cable car or hiking are available to ascend to the summit of the hill. The cable car provides an easy and quick way to reach the top. Additionally, there are walking paths around the hill, allowing visitors to hike up to the summit.

Lycabettus Church: At the top of the hill, you will find the Lycabettus Church (Agios Georgios). This small church is a popular spot for visitors and is considered a symbolic part of the hill. You can explore the interior of the church and find tranquility at a point that enhances the view even further.

Other Activities: Lycabettus Hill offers not only stunning views but also the opportunity to explore its surrounding natural beauty and engage in various activities. You can take a walk on the hill, immerse yourself in nature, or have a picnic. Additionally, there are restaurants and cafes located at the foot of the hill, allowing you to enjoy a meal or a drink while appreciating the view.

Lycabettus Hill is a worthwhile destination for those visiting Athens. With its breathtaking views, natural beauty, and the activities it offers, it provides visitors with an unforgettable experience. It is recommended for anyone who wants to observe Athens from above and enjoy the captivating scenery of the city to visit Lycabettus Hill.

The Temple of Poseidon:

The Temple of Poseidon is a temple dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the seas and earthquakes in ancient Greek mythology. The temple is located on Cape Sounion, southeast of Athens. The Temple of Poseidon is notable for its historical and cultural significance as well as its impressive sea view. Here are more details about the Temple of Poseidon:

History: The Temple of Poseidon was built in the 5th century BC and served as an important place for the safety of sailors and merchant ships during ancient times. The temple has undergone repairs and renovations over time, but today only its remains remain.

Architecture: The Temple of Poseidon is a classical Greek temple with a Doric order. The temple is adorned with columns, friezes, and other architectural details. The most striking feature of the temple is its location on a cliff overlooking the sea. This provides the temple with a dramatic view and an impressive backdrop.

Sea View: The location of the Temple of Poseidon offers visitors a unique sea view. From the hill on Cape Sounion, one can see the magnificent blue of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape. Especially during sunset, the temple and the sea view combine to create a visual spectacle.

Cultural and Mythological Importance: The Temple of Poseidon played an important role as a sacred site where sailors and merchants prayed for Poseidon’s protection during their sea voyages. The temple was also a place where rituals and festivals dedicated to Poseidon were held.

Visiting and Tourism: Today, the Temple of Poseidon is a popular destination for tourists. The temple’s remains provide visitors with an atmosphere of the ancient era. Additionally, there is a visitor center and souvenir shops near the temple. Visitors can explore the temple while enjoying the sea view.

The Temple of Poseidon is an impressive ancient structure near Athens. It offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its historical and natural beauty. If you are interested in Greek mythology and ancient history, I recommend not to miss the Temple of Poseidon during your trip to Athens.

In this article of the Athens Travel Guide, we have shared with you the most iconic and worth-visiting places in Athens. By exploring these sites, you can witness the historical and cultural richness and have an unforgettable Athens experience.