Acropolis & Parthenon
The single most important ancient site in Europe. Combined ticket includes six other ruins; arrive at opening to beat the cruise crowds.
About Athens
Athens is two cities — the ancient one frozen above the rooftops on the Acropolis, and the modern one of street art, neighbourhood tavernas and rooftop bars below it. Three days is enough to fall for both.
Map of Athens
Explore Athens by interest
Museums & Culture
Acropolis Museum
Purpose-built glass-and-marble museum at the foot of the rock. Visit after the site itself to see what's missing from where.
National Archaeological Museum
Three thousand years of Greek antiquities — Mycenaean gold, classical bronzes, the Mask of Agamemnon.
Ancient Agora
The civic heart of ancient Athens. Quieter than the Acropolis itself and arguably more atmospheric.
Theatres & Concert Halls
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
A cultural complex in Kallithea, Athens, with new facilities for the Greek National Opera and the National Library, set beside a large park.
Athens Concert Hall
A concert hall on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, inaugurated in 1991 with two halls and later extended to four, two large and two smaller.
Popular Tours & Day Trips
Acropolis & Parthenon Skip-the-Line Tour
Two-hour guided walk with a licensed Greek archaeologist. The history is what makes the stones worth the climb.
Delphi Day Trip
Three hours by coach to the most important oracle of antiquity, returning by evening.
Cape Sounion Sunset Tour
The Temple of Poseidon at sunset, an easy half-day from central Athens.
Where to Stay
See full Athens hotel guide →Plaka
Beneath the Acropolis — cobbled lanes, tavernas spilling onto squares. Best for first-time visitors.
Koukaki
Quieter neighbourhood directly south of the Acropolis. Walk to every major site, sleep without the noise.
Monastiraki
Buzzy market district with great rooftop bars. Lively at night — book a room with double-glazing.
Practical Info
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Getting There
Fly into Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). The Blue Line metro reaches Syntagma Square (the centre) in about 40 minutes for a flat fare.
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Best Time to Visit
April to early June, September to October
