Athens is the capital city of Greece and is renowned for its rich culture, the mediterranean landscapes and weather, and ofcourse, the stunning beaches!
This Sightseeing in Athens thread is a travel guide to share all the essential information for Indian travelers and tourists who are planning a trip to Athens, including what to see, what to do, where to go, what to experience, and other useful information.
Here is a list of a few popular places to visit in Athens, Greece and things to do there:
1. Acropolis Area
- Acropolis: The ancient citadel containing the Parthenon, a symbol of classical Greece.
- Parthenon: A former temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, offering stunning views of Athens.
2. Plaka Neighborhood
- Anafiotika: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets and whitewashed houses, reminiscent of the Greek islands.
- Roman Agora: The ruins of the ancient Roman marketplace, including the Tower of the Winds. Nearby, there is the Lysicrates Monument, a well-preserved example of ancient Greek architecture.
3. Syntagma Square
- Hellenic Parliament: The Greek Parliament building, located in the heart of Athens.
- Changing of the Guard: Witness the ceremonial change of the Evzones guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
4. Monastiraki and the Archaeological Museum Area:
- Monastiraki Flea Market: A bustling market with a variety of goods, from antiques to souvenirs.
- Hadrian’s Library: Ancient ruins that once housed a vast collection of books and documents.
More things to do in Athens and nearby excursions:
- Cruise the Aegean Sea: Take a day cruise to nearby islands such as Hydra, Poros, and Aegina to explore the beauty of the Aegean Sea. Alternatively, take a day trip to the coastal town of Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy the stunning sunset over the Aegean Sea.
- Visit a Taverna: Experience traditional Greek cuisine at a local taverna, savoring dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.
- Explore Athens Central Market: Wander through the bustling Varvakios Agora to taste fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Hunt for unique treasures and antiques at the Monastiraki Flea Market.
- Attend a Cultural Event: Enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, from a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus to a modern play at the National Theatre of Greece.
- Wine Tasting Tour: Participate in a wine tasting tour in the Attica region, known for its vineyards and excellent wines.
- Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, spanakopita, and tzatziki in a hands-on cooking class.
- Picnic on Philopappos Hill: Have a picnic while enjoying panoramic views of Athens and the Acropolis from Philopappos Hill.
Share your latest experiences in exploring these sites and/or other new points of interest in Athens as responses/comments on this thread. This will be very helpful to fellow travellers and members of this travel community who are planning a trip to Greece.
