We have selected the TOP-30 attractions in Athens with descriptions and photos that you should definitely see on vacation for two or with children. This article describes interesting places for trips on your own through the territory of the resort and the surrounding area. We told where to go for a walk in the evening, made a map, found sightseeing tours of Athens in Russian with fascinating guides who will not take you shopping. And of course, we found delicious restaurants where you can spend an evening at sunset and taste traditional Greek cuisine.
Athens is an ancient city that keeps a lot of secrets and mysteries, the cultural heritage of mankind. Here powerful gods decided the fate, great orators lived, staged theatrical performances, and the people did not tire of glorifying the power. The city is not afraid of war or natural disasters, it is still alive and looks forward to guests from all over the world to share its secrets. The sights of Athens can be viewed endlessly, and each time more and more details will be revealed.
Acropolis, Athens
This is the heart of the city, the place where civilization was born. Tourists are offered to explore the architectural heritage of the Hellenes, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans. The remains of the most ancient temples and theaters have been preserved. Here, as if you are immersed in the atmosphere of Ancient Greece. Every intelligent person is obliged to visit the Athens Acropolis.
Temple of Hephaestus
Construction of the 5th century BC The temple belonged to Pericles - a commander and politician. For the construction, marble was used, as evidenced by the surviving columns that hold the roof of the building.
An interesting fact is that from the 7th century BC and up to the 19th century there was a church belonging to the Orthodox world. Many travelers are familiar with the building from photos of Athens attractions in textbooks and guidebooks.
Parthenon
The temple was built in honor of the patroness of the city of Athens in Greece. It also dates back to the 5th century BC. At this time, the heyday of the polis fell. The names of the architects who worked on the project are known. This is Callistratus and Iktin. Phidias was responsible for the interiors.
The temple was notable for its magnificent decoration, which is not surprising. The goddess was worshiped by all the inhabitants of the city.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
The construction of the temple began in the 6th century BC. NS. But the work could not be completed for another 6 centuries. It is believed that the building was completely finished only during the reign of the Roman emperor.
The temple suffered: it was plundered in the 3rd century, and 200 years later Theodosius ordered to close it altogether.
Recently discovered: only in the 19th century. Open for inspection.
Erechtheion
Tradition says that Athena and Poseidon quarreled here. The gods could not share power. The columns holding the roof of the temple are noteworthy. They are made in the form of female figures. The name of the architect is not clear. Some historians say that the work belongs to Callimachus, other researchers claim that the temple was created by Alkamen. This is the place worth seeing in Athens.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The oldest theater was built in the 2nd century BC. It is noteworthy that the building is still used for its intended purpose. The building is perfectly preserved. The Athens Festival is held here annually. The theater stage saw the world's best celebrities.
Theater of Dionysus
Located on the territory of the Acropolis, a little to the right of the Odeon of Herodotus. Here performances were staged based on the masterpieces of ancient writers such as:
- Aeschylus;
- Euripides;
- Sophocles.
The building was abandoned only at the beginning of our era. Now the attraction of ancient Athens is being reconstructed. It is planned to use it for its intended purpose.
Tower of Winds
The building is made in the form of an octagon, each side facing the same direction of the world. It is believed that it was erected by an ancient astronomer for the sake of studying the starry sky and correctly reading the time. Dimensions of the structure:
- height - 12 m;
- width - 8 m.
A special weather vane was installed on the roof, with the help of which the wind direction was determined.
Kerameikos
An ancient cemetery where important persons were buried until the 4th century. People come here to inspect the preserved sculptures, monuments, columns, to honor the memory of famous figures.
The site is of valuable historical and archaeological significance for researchers. Included in the list of the main attractions of Athens for a must-see.
Standing Attala
The structure was erected by decree of the Pergamon ruler, whose name it bears. The building is a colonnade with a roof. The site served as a place for walking and viewing the surroundings.
Panathinaikos stadium
The stadium is made of marble. In ancient times, competitions were held on the site. In addition, this is the site of the organization of the Panathenaic Games, which were of a religious nature. At this time, festive processions were organized here, sacrifices were made to the gods.
It was on Panathinaikos that the ceremony of the Revival of the Olympic Games took place.
National Archaeological Museum
The object is included in the list of must-sees in Athens. Collections tell about the historical past of the city. You will be able to get acquainted with works of art dating back to the prehistoric period.
- The largest museum in Greece was founded in 1889. Full details are provided on the official website: https://www.namuseum.gr/.
New Acropolis Museum
If you don't know where to go in Athens, go here. This is a modern facility, opened in the current millennium. The collections are represented by exhibits that tell about the stages of development and formation of the city.
The collection is regularly updated with new archaeological finds. Excavations on the territory of the Acropolis are still underway.
- You will learn the nuances of visiting on the official website: https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/.
Byzantine Museum
Visitors are introduced to the masterpieces of Byzantine art. It also houses the works of artists who created later. Of interest is the collection of icons - one of the largest collections in the world.
Also presented:
- tableware;
- ceramics;
- manuscripts;
- mosaic;
- church attributes.
Opened at the beginning of the last millennium, in 1914.
- Official website: https://www.byzantinemuseum.gr/en/.
Benaki Museum
The object will interest tourists who are looking for information on what to see in Athens. The collection was collected by A. Benaki. For a long time he served as the director of the museum. Here are stored textiles, canvases, ceramics, household items dating back to different eras.
The collection differs from the usual collections, there are unique relics. The place is worth visiting for lovers of rarities.
- Find out about prices and timetables at the link: https://www.benaki.org/index.php?lang=el.
Museum of Cycladic Art
Will interest fans of this direction. The collection is based on a private collection. The museum was founded in the 80s of the last century. Collections were exported to different countries. These are valuable exhibits. The most complete are the masterpieces of Cypriot art.
- The attraction is located at st. ΔΟΥΚΑ ΝΕΟΦΥΤΟΥ.
Cruiser Georgios Averof
Included in the list of things to see in Athens for the whole family on vacation. This is a ship museum. The ship was built at the beginning of the 20th century for the Italian army. He took part in 3 wars, including World War II. Disabled after the end of hostilities. The authorities decided to turn the legendary ship into a museum.
- There is a ship in Paleon Faliron (South Athens).
Syntagma Square
You will find it in the modern city, in the very center of Athens. The square began to play an important role in the 20th century. Then it became the commercial center of the policy. The Royal Palace deserves attention, now the city parliament sits in the building.
The square is notorious: it is the place of strikes, rallies, demonstrations, protests.
Included in the list of Athens attractions with photos, names, and descriptions in local travel guides. The object is a must-see at any time of the year; you can order an excursion here at any local excursion agency.
Unkown soldiers grave
Located at the walls of the Royal Palace. A guard of honor has been established. People come here not only to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers. The fact is that the appearance of the guards makes you smile. They are dressed in a very unusual way. It is the uniform of the Greek military that attracts tourists.
Lycabettus
What to visit in Athens is a must. This is the highest point in the city, a hill. The Acropolis and the port of Piraeus are perfectly visible from here. The hill has an unusual shape: it has two peaks. A church rises on one, and a modern object - a theater - is placed on the other. A cable car is equipped, and those who wish to get to the top by car.
An interesting place for photo shoots, especially in the evening here you can meet Instagram lovers and organize professional shootings for magazines.
Church of Panagia Kapnikarea
From what you can see in Athens, let us single out this object. This is the oldest temple in the city (erected in 1050). Before the construction of the monastery, there was an altar of the pagans here. Historians suggest that it was built in honor of a female deity.
The church attracts pilgrims, as it is considered one of the first buildings that arose with the arrival of the new faith. The monument was made in the Byzantine tradition. A distinctive feature is the domed roof.
You will be able to see the temple on Ermou Street. Don't miss this opportunity and take a walk in the surroundings. The street is a prestigious, expensive place. Shopaholics will like it here, Ermou is completely built up with fashionable boutiques.
Daphni monastery
The information is useful for tourists looking for information about what to see near Athens, namely, to go to the vicinity of the resort town. The attraction is located far from the capital. You will have to drive 11 km, but it's worth it, we definitely advise you to include the object in your list of attractions.
The 6th century monument is revered in the country. The original appearance of the monastery has not survived. A building created in the Byzantine Empire has survived to this day. In the 13th century, the shrine was chosen by Catholics, but already in the middle of the 15th century, the monastery returned to Christians.
Areopagus
If you have time and do not know what to see in 2 days in Athens, pay attention to the Areopagus Upland. One of the apostles was preaching from this hill. The hill got its name due to the fact that the court was located here. He was named Areopagus.
Hill of the Muses
At the top there is a monument in honor of Gaius Julius Philopappus. The Roman repeatedly helped the city in difficult situations. Tourists are attracted here by the opportunity to enjoy the silence. A park is laid out along the slopes of a natural attraction in Athens (Greece). But since there is no infrastructure, there are few vacationers.
Plaka District
People come here to admire the architecture of the 18th century. The entire area is built up with houses that have survived from that time. One of the streets of the quarter is noteworthy. It is believed that it has existed since the founding of Ancient Greece. And how old is Athens, researchers know roughly. The city was founded in the 7th millennium BC. NS.
Many living quarters have been converted into museums.
Monastiraki
Central city market. The marketplace is popular with tourists, it reminds us of our flea market. Lovers of rarities come here, they manage to find rare things here.
Be sure to bargain, sellers are already standardly inflating prices in order to give a discount and still make money on a tourist.
- You will find a bazaar in the area of the same name, believe me, you will not pass by.
Anafiotika quarter
In the guide to the sights of Athens with photos and descriptions, you will certainly see pictures of the Anafiotika quarter. It is located in the Plaka area.
The quarter appeared thanks to the builders who came here to build a palace for King Otto. Small snow-white houses will serve as an excellent backdrop for memorable pictures.
An interesting place in Athens, which is sure to please couples in love. The place is quiet and secluded, full of romance.
National garden
Broken down in the center of the capital. Occupies an area of 5 hectares. More than 500 species of trees and shrubs grow. The appearance of the garden is associated with the name of Queen Amalia. First, they grew vegetables here, and then turned the vegetable garden into a beautiful garden suitable for relaxation and walking.
Flisvos Marina
A beautiful corner of the city. Guests of the capital come to the embankment to admire the sea views. Vacationers are offered to take a trip on a yacht or boat. This is a prestigious place where expensive boutiques, restaurants, clubs are concentrated.
Zoo
Tourists with children will enjoy visiting the local zoo. The zoological garden covers an area of 20 hectares. A huge number of animals live. Handsome peacocks walk along the paths, giraffes feast on foliage from trees, hippos rest in water bodies.
Travelers spend the whole day here. There are cafes on the territory of the zoo where you can taste the national cuisine. Kids frolic on the playgrounds.
Trees are planted everywhere, flower beds are broken. The shade remains here, even on the hottest day.
- The institution works daily, detailed information can be found on the website: https://www.atticapark.com/.
Excursions in Athens in Russian
Attractions of Athens on the map
Where to eat deliciously?
- Thes "Greek Creative Cuisine" at Taki 16. A small restaurant with tables on the street is in constant demand among tourists, here they not only cook deliciously, but also decorate every dish with dignity.
- Cozy establishment Scala vinoteca with a fairly stylish interior and a small exit to the veranda. Located at Sina 50 / Anagnostopoulou.
- Thrill-seekers will love high altitude dining in a restaurant Dinner in the sky at: Iakchou | & Voutadon. You have probably seen on TV more than once how a group of tourists on a platform is lifted to a height of 30 meters using a crane and cooked in a hanging position. It is actually a common attraction, but in the evening we especially recommend having dinner here.
- Quite a cozy and inexpensive restaurant with traditional cuisine Fine mess smokehouse at Skoufa 73. The average check per person is 900 rubles.
- For lovers of desserts, we recommend a small cafe BiteBox on Veikou 84. The average bill is 700 rubles per person.
- Well, the last place with Greek cuisine and inexpensive ambitions - To Kyklamino on Pl. Avissinias 3. Appreciated for its quiet and cozy atmosphere at tables outside.
Where is the best place to stay in Athens?
We recommend that you explore the city with a guide, and devote the rest of your time to walks in the old and modern area. The impressions of the trip will remain in your memory for a long time.
