Athens


5 spots you must visit in and around Athens


Athens, Greece, View from the Lycabettus Hill
Athens, View from the Lycabettus Hill




1. Acropolis in Greece is unmissable for all travellers


The more than 3,300-year-old Acropolis is undoubtedly the symbol of Athens and Greece. I visited the Acropolis for the first time at the end of June, when the temperature was 42 degrees. Our walk around this magical monument was adventurous. The historic trip approached the end when the archeological place had been closed because of the tropical heat.

Do’s and don’ts of an Acropolis tour

First of all, pay attention to sun protection! You’ll need a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable and decent clothes. There’s no dress code, but respect the sanctity of the place!

Secondly, albeit there are water fountains on the Acropolis, these are generally busy. Therefore, take a bottle of water! You’ll need it in the heat. You are allowed to carry only water with you on the Acropolis.

The hill is rocky and slippery. So, girls, forget the high-heeled footwear, and wear appropriate walking shoes!

Last but not least, do not touch the marble! Do not take pieces of rocks home! Even if you feel a temptation to put a relic from the Acropolis in your bag, do not! Imagine if every tourist took only one piece… This iconic Greek Archaeological monument is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let’s take care of it! This wonder is a must-see place for the future generation as well!

The Acropolis Museum is also a memorable experience for lovers of history. Learn more about the history of the Acropolis and the city of Athens here.

To avoid queuing, purchase your e-tickets to the Acropolis Museum online.

What you should know about the tickets

You can book your tickets or guided tour to the Acropolis online.

On certain days, you can visit the archaeological spots free of charge, but you have to consider that the hill will be crowded on those days. Check out the free admission dates.






2. Plaka


Go for a walk surrounded by lovely labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture. 

In the streets of Plaka, you can purchase irresistible souvenirs; for example, women appreciate olive-based hair, face, and body natural care products. Did you know it? Olive oil is the best moisturizer ever! 

The ancient Greek-style silver jewellery is the other thing I can’t resist in Plaka’s souvenir shops. After the Acropolis+Plaka tour, you’ll be happy to taste the fantastic traditional Greek food in the restaurants of Plaka.


Street in Athens, Greece
Street in Athens overlooking the ancient Hadrian’s Gate



3. Lycabettus

Lycabettus is the highest point in Central Athens, at 277 metres (908 feet) above sea level.

Enjoy the fantastic view from the top of the hill and take amazing photos.





4. Telescope Day and Night Bar


Telescope is a peculiar bar with a unique view. It’s the perfect place for (not only) the first date and an impressive sight from the restaurant, especially at night.


Telescope Bar, Athens, Greece




5. Cape Sounion and Poseidon Temple 

Cape Sounion is the southernmost spot of the Attika Peninsula, and it lies approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles) away from Athens.

The best time for a visit is the golden hour, before sunset, not just for photographers. The temple of Poseidon is one of the most magical places in Greece.




+ Trip tips from Athens:

Visit Aegina Island, Agistri Island, and Megara Town! It takes less than 1 hour to get there.



Where to stay in Athens?


There are impeccable luxury hotels in Athens with a marvellous view of the Acropolis. Choose the best hotel for your dream holiday in the historical capital of Greece.

If you’re longing for a luxury vacation with sustainability in mind, I highly recommend the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens.


In case of a limited budget, you can find cheap accommodation in and around Athens by Booking. The price range is wide, depending on your claims.