10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Athens Greece

Published On : 02 Sep 2024

It should be noted that Athens is one of the largest and most ancient cities in Europe and has always been an important center of history and culture. Athens is one of the most historical cities in the world and the capital city of Greece, travelers can find remnants of ancient civilization, museums, vibrant city districts, delicious food, and picturesque landscapes. So here are ten breathtaking and meaningful sites and neighborhoods you should put on your list if you are planning a trip to Athens.

1. Acropolis and Parthenon

Every visitor to Athens should get to the wonder of the world known as the Acropolis, a massive flat-topped rock that stands 490 feet above sea level. Located on top of the Acropolis is perhaps one of the most famous temples, The Parthenon, which was constructed between 447 and 432 BC to pay homage to the Greek goddess Athena. Over thousands of years, the Parthenon was subjected to many attacks and pilfering and was heavily polluted and partially destroyed, however, the size and detail of the structure along with its history make the Parthenon a splendid sight. It was a cloudy day though the day I visited the monument must have offered a clear view of the city in the evening.

2. Plaka Neighborhood

With cobblestone paths full of quaint twists and turns, the Plaka district is a throwback to a bygone era, built just below the Acropolis. This is the oldest residential neighborhood in Athens built with narrow cobblestone roads having ancient ruins, Byzantine Church, Neoclassical mansions, restaurants, shops, cafes, and many other structures. Having a walk around Plaka is much more impressive at night when the streets are decorated with strings of lights. Roman Agora archaeological site featuring the marvelous Gate of Athena Archegetis must also not be missed.

3. Lycabettus Hill

There is the Lycabettus Hill which is one of the highest places in Athens and a perfect place if you want to have a beautiful view of the city. Known as ‘Lycabettus’ is slightly lower than a 1000ft high hill and has a commanding position. There is also a trail for hiking to the top but the steep incline might prove straining. To make it easier you can take a 19th-century funicular railway in or near the Kolonaki area. On top, of the distinct white Chapel of St. George is the rotating structure with an unobstructed view of the Acropolis and beyond through the Saronic Gulf islands and mountains. The night scenery, especially the sunsets, viewed from the top of Lycabettus Hill is a sight to behold.

4. Temple of Olympian Zeus

Out of the one hundred and four Corinthian columns that were originally constructed, fifteen remain standing today; however, the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens remains a striking reminder of the grandeur of ancient structures. Built in the 6th century BC but was not fully constructed until 132 AD under Roman domination, it was once the temple of the Olympian king of the gods, Zeus, and the largest temple in Greece. Only a few columns of the temple stand now proudly amid beautifully maintained gardens that are excellent for leisurely walks. There is a massive Hadrian’s Arch nearby, don’t forget to explore it.

5. Both these architectural masterpieces are situated in the city of Athens in Greece The Erechtheion is an ancient temple and the Porch of the Caryatids is a porch made of stone figures in the shape of women.

Located on the north slope of the Acropolis, the Erechtheion temple which stands at the site today was constructed between 421 and 406 BC and dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. What makes this temple different from the other ancient buildings are the six female figures draped and acting as the pillars of the porch ceiling, the Caryatids. The original Caryatids today are in the Acropolis Museum but on site notice the plaster casts. Although a relatively small temple, the intricate friezes, columns, and position overlooking the city of Athens make the Erechtheion temple a worthy visit indeed.

6. National Garden

Located in the middle of the city, the National Garden was originally a royal villa that belonged to the Greek kings and queens. Founded in 1923 this immense park offers greenery, flowers, pedestrian trails, fountains, ponds, statues and benches, a zoo, and a café. People like to have a stroll there, sit on benches with a book under the trees, or simply take children to a nearby playground. I would recommend a visit to this park during the warmer months when Athenians seek refuge from the concrete jungle of the capital or during the autumn when the trees put on a colorful display.

7. Mount Lycabettus Funicular Railway

It is fun to take a funicular railway constructed in the 19th century to the top of Mount Lycabettus to enjoy the views, but the ride in the rail car is part of Athenian tourist tradition. The low 600-meter-long funicular railway can be described as something from a black-and-white movie as it moves up and down the hill of Mount Lycabettus. Having been launched in 1885, this was the first electric railway in the world although it was first operated using a water counterweight before being electrified in 1910. Sign in to this legendary taxi just for the fun of it, and enjoy the magnificent views of the city from Lycabettus Hill.

8. Temple of Hephaestus

Built in the 5th century BC as a temple for Hephaestus, the metalworking god of fire with views of the Thissio district and the marketplace ruins called Ancient Agora. The temple was constructed in 450 BC and is considered one of the most preserved ancient temples in Greece. Although it is not as popular as the Parthenon with which it shares the same acropolis, its preserved state and serene setting atop the mountains make for an undervalued visit. The Temple of Hephaestus looks beautiful when it is well lit at night time especially when taking photographs.

9. Philopappos Hill and Monument

If you want to avoid the crowds, and the views of the Acropolis area, then go to the Philopappos Hill which is covered with pine trees. It is an earthen mound that was given the name of Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappus, the prince from the Kingdom of Commagene, who died in 116 A.D. The monument of his tomb is made of marble and is located on the highest point, where you get a breathtaking view of the whole Acropolis and the city of Athens. There are ramps for wheelchair access up through the temperate pines along with other pathways across the rocks, and there is also a small theater carved into the side of the hill. Sunset here is also good for any great view of Athens you would wish to marvel at.

10. Benaki Museum

To get a feel of the nation’s history and rich culture do not fail to visit the renowned Benaki Museum. Situated in a neoclassical-style dwelling, the museum displays works of Greek art and antiques in its four-story gallery. The exhibition includes clusters of regional costumes, Byzantine icons, sculptures from any period of Greek history, late art of the War of Independence, and modern paintings. The reception area has a glass atrium, carved ceilings, luxurious furniture, and antique chandeliers that make you feel like you are in a 19th-century mansion while the historical and cultural aspects come alive through a tour.

Beyond the ruined sights, which are numerous, there are lively districts with good food and bar scenes, museums, picturesque hills with stunning views, green spaces, and historical sites that can be visited in Athens. How the opportunity to consider them will provide you with a better notion of the historic setting and the present-day thriving city of Athens. Below is a list of some of the most beautiful places one should visit to be sure he or she has not missed the best that Athens offers. But beware, you may very well leave a piece of your heart in one of these stupendous Greek capitals!

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