by Isla Campbell

Of all the cities in the world you could visit for a culturally enriching city break, Athens is surely one of the most intriguing. See ancient ruins all over the city, or visit during on of the various cultural events and festivals held annually. There are a host of museums and galleries filled with ancient treasures where cultural enthusiasts are sure to come away with an experience to remember.

Temple of Athena at Acropolis photo by Marco ed Emanuela/ Wikimedia

So what are some of the most quintessential sights to visit on a historical getaway in Athens? Of course, you won’t want to miss what’s arguably the city’s most famous attraction - the Acropolis - which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the late Bronze Age, the Acropolis was the ancient fortified town of Athens. It’s also the site of some of the most famous buildings of the Greek Classical age, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. Not only does walking around the Temple area take you back in time, but it’s a fun way to learn about antiquated history.

Temple of Hephaistos photo by Sekundenschlaf/Wikimedia

You also won’t want to miss the Ancient Agora or Syntagma Square. The Ancient Agora is a very green region of Athens, which houses the Temple of Hephaestus – one of the most well preserved ancient Greek temples. Then stop by the Attalos Stoa - the museum of the agora. Other must-see ancient sites include the Kerameikos - site of the ancient cemetery of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Panathinaiko Stadium. This is the stadium that housed the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It’s easy to walk around many areas of Athens, but an enjoyable way to experience the old area of the city is to join a bike tour - usually available during the weekends.

New Acropolis Museum photo by lkopp/Wikimedia

While on your historical tour of Athens, you’ll also want to visit a range of the city’s intriguing museums and galleries. Some of the most prominent include:

• Kanellopoulos – in the Plaka
• Folk Art Museums - in the Plaka
• The New Acropolis Museum
• The National Archaeological Museum near Omonia,
• The Benaki - in Kolonaki
• Cycladic Art Museums - in Kolonaki

All of these spots are full of national treasures.

Athens is also renowned for its many festivals and seasonal events - many of which take place during the summer months. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival, for instance, offers a wide array of performances at the ancient theatre of Epidaurus.

Other summertime festivals include the Athens Festival - held June to September, which hosts classical and modern music, opera, dance and theatre performances - and the Athens International Film Festival - an annual event since 1974, presenting independent films from around the world.

Whether you visit Athens for a day or for a week, the city entices and beckons you in a magical way like no other city. This article might touch on a few highlights, but when you visit Athens there are surprises in abundance around every corner.

Athens flights are served by the main city international airport, making Athens easily accessible for most international visitors.

Bike Tours in Athens
www.yellowzebrabikes.com
www.cyclegreece.gr

A few favorite Athens restaurants

Varoulko
Pireos 80, Gazi
Tel: 210 522 8400
Website: www.varoulko.gr
Fantastic food with amazing views of the Acropolis

Arheon Gevseis
22 Kodratou St.
Athens, Greece
Tel: 210-523 9661
Website: www.thematic-dining.gr
A favorite for most and interesting as it goes back to ancient ways of eating. Eat here to have a memorable meal and experience

O Geros Tou Moria
27, Mnisikleous St. (Plaka)
Athens, Greece
Tel: 210 322 1753
Websiste: www.gerostoumoria-restaurant.com
Lots of charm and good food located under the Acropolis on the Plaka.

 

Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.