The Athens Adventure

Athens has always been one of those places I have been dreaming about going since I was little! I’ve always been fascinated with the Greek Mythology and history, and let’s face it, in Athens you’re really at the center of it. If ancient history is one of your interests, Athens must be on your list of European cities to visit. Besides from the rich history, Athens also offers amazing shopping facilities. We’ve only spent 48 hours there, but that was enough time to explore the city. If you’re planning a trip to Athens, make sure to add the following highlights to your itinerary. 

Syntagma Square & Parliament Building

The Syntagma Square is Athens’s central square and the place where the nation’s main events are being organized. The most important building at the Syntagma Square is the Parliament Building, formerly the King’s Palace. It was built between 1836 and 1840 by King Otto. The tomb of the unknown soldier is guarded by Evzones, elite soldiers who are chosen for their height and strength. Every day at 6pm you can see the changing of the guard.The principal shopping street, Ermou Street, can be find apposite to the Parliament Building. Over there you can find the popular brands. If you are looking for the high end stores, head to Kolanaki, which is also really close to Syntagma Square.

Plaka

Plaka is the oldest and most charming part of Athens. You’ll find the Acropolis and many other stunning Greek ruins in this area. In this part of town you can find plenty of bars and restaurants. If you are looking for some typical Greek souvenirs, Plaka is the place to be.

The Acropolis & the Acropolis Museum

The most famous landmark in Athens is the Acropolis, the hill where the Parthenon and other famous ruins such as the Odeon Herodes Atticus, Propylaea, Erectheion and the Temple of Athena are located on. It was built in the 5th century BC. If you don’t want to be greeted by groups of people, I recommend to go early. We arrived at 8am and almost had the place to ourselves, which was lovely. We had plenty of time to see the sides and enjoy the wonderful views upon the city. In the Acropolis Museum you can see over 4,000 objects found in the archaeological site of the Acropolis. The original columns of the Porch of the Caryatids from the Erectheion are preserved in this museum.

Temple of Zeus & Hadrian’s Arch

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was one of the largest temples in the ancient world. Originally the temple consisted out of 104 columns with a 17m height, today only 15 remain. The construction of the temple began in the 6th century BC, but was not completed until the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s reign in the 2nd century AD.

Just outside the archaeological site, stands Hadrian’s Arch built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

Mount Lycabettus

If you want a wonderful panoramic view upon Athens and the Acropolis, you have to climb Mount Lycabettus. With its height of 227 meters, it’s the tallest hill in the city. A funicular at the bottom of the hill takes you to the top in 10 minutes. Good to know is, that during the ride there is no view, because of the fact that the funicular is inside of a tunnel. Therefore we decided to walk! Although the hike up is beautiful, it can be a challenge in summer. But once you’re up there, it’s so worth it!

On top of the hill stands the adorable St. George Chapel. This orthodox building, dedicated to St. George, was built in the 19th century. As Mount Lycabettus is considered one of the most romantic places in Athens, lots of couples want to get marry in the chapel. And with that view, who can blame them! But hey, don’t get your hopes up, there’s a two-year waiting list.

 

Thinking back on my Athens trip, I’m really pleased to have seen the landmarks that carry so much importance in our western history. However for some reason I kept comparing Athens to Rome. And that’s something you shouldn’t do. The first time I was in Rome it was love at first sight. Every corner you turn, you find an even more beautiful building than the one before. Going to Athens, I expected kind of the same thing. And that wasn’t the case as the buildings are not as well preserved as the ones in Rome. When it comes to the architecture and history the cities are equally interesting, but Rome just offers so much more! After three visits I still haven’t managed to see it all. While in Athens you can easily see all of the sites in two days. But like I said in the beginning of this post, if you are intrigued by ancient history, Athens should be on your to do list!

Practical information Athens

  • The easiest way to go to the centre from the airport is by taxi.
  • Currency: Euro (€)

 

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