Places To Explore
The Acropolis
Rising up from the center of Athens is the Acropolis, a fortified limestone plateau that is topped with the Parthenon and several other historical monuments. This is ancient, iconic Greece, the place where philosophers questioned the universe, democracy and freedom of speech were born, and temples were built to honor the gods. The Acropolis is the most popular place to visit in Athens, so expect big crowds, especially at midday. In order to skip the ticket lines, purchase your tickets online in advance or buy a combination ticket at one of the less popular sites and then visit to the Acropolis. The Acropolis museum is located near the Acropolis. Lines can be long so it is best to purchase your tickets online in advance (tickets for the Acropolis Museum are sold separately from the Acropolis).
Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic Stadium was the first modern Olympic stadium, hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It's known for being the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble and is a significant historical site.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Located in Syntagma Square near the Hellenic Parliament Building, this is a war memorial that is dedicated to the Greek soldiers who died in war. The tomb is guarded by an Evzone soldier dressed in traditional uniform. The changing of the guard ceremony occurs regularly throughout the day.
Plaka
Plaka is a neighborhood in Athens that stretches from the Acropolis to Syntagma Square. This is one of the best spots in Athens to go shopping. Ermou Street is a pedestrian street lined with popular stores. The older and more interesting streets are located closer to the Acropolis. The Anafiotika area is a charming, older section of Plaka with narrow, photogenic streets and shops.
Temple of Poseidon
The Temple of Poseidon at Sounio is one of the most majestic temples in the whole of Greece. No Greek God or Goddess could have asked for a better spot to have a temple built in their honor. Cape Sounio is surrounded by steep rocks, offering spectacular views to the Aegean Sea. Many people prefer to visit the ancient site during the evening, when the sun sets behind the temple and illuminates it in a beautiful orange hue. Watching the sun set from the top of the cliff is an unforgettable experience. There are three ways to visit the Poseidon temple: by public transportation, rental car, or an organized tour. It is located at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula, about 70 kms (43.5 miles) out of central Athens.
