Athens

Published: 12 January 2023, 13:00

Antiquity, Aegean and Acropolis

Cradle of European culture, Olympic city and centre of antiquity: welcome to Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world. It is named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom. However, anyone who thinks that Athens is only a journey back in time and a visit to ancient sights is mistaken. Athens is a city full of contrasts that mix living tradition with a modern lifestyle.

Modern architecture and hip nightlife districts characterise the face of the Greek capital, as do bustling markets, hip street cafés and cool street art. On top of that, there’s even a tram connection to the beach – the ideal way to combine a city trip with a beach holiday. Those who take some time for Athens will be richly rewarded – from the famous Acropolis to the adjacent Aegean Sea and the monumental Olympic Stadium, there are all kinds of things to discover.

Numbers, data, facts

Time difference: + one hour
Population: Four Millions
Official language: Greek
Currency: Euro

Athens highlights

Acropolis at sunset captured from a greater distance.

The Acropolis at sunset: Athens’ most famous sight is the 3000-year-old, higher part of city with the Parthenon Temple and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. © sborisov/AdobeStocks

Ancient statues in the Acropolis Museum against a neutral background.

Ancient finds: the modern Acropolis Museum, located right next to the Acropolis, gives an insight into ancient history. © saiko3p/AdobeStocks

Monastiraki Square with old town and colorful buildings in daylight.

Like Plaka and Psirri, the neighbourhood around Monastiraki Square is part of the historic old town. The Sunday flea market is a wonderful place to browse. © Ecstk22/AdobeStocks

Narrow alley in the Anafiotika cliffside quarter with white houses.

Village in the city: the narrow streets of Anafiotika give you that holiday feeling. The rocky Athenian neighbourhood was built in the style of a typical Cycladic village. © EnginKorkmaz/AdobeStocks

Roman AgoraRuins of the Roman marketplace with columns and stone remains.

Roman market place: the Roman Agora shows the remains of where people once gathered and ran the city. © Valerie Rokhin/AdobeStocks

Tall palm trees in the National Garden on a sunny day.

An Oasis in the heart of the city: the National Garden lets you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind. Afterwards, you can watch the changing of the guard at parliament across the street. © v

Marble Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first Olympic Games.

The Panathenaic Stadium is the Olympic Stadium used in the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Concerts and events still take place here today. © anastasios71/AdobeStocks

Ancient Theatre of Dionysus with semicircular stone seating.

The world’s first theatre: the Theatre of Dionysus is considered the birthplace of ancient Greek theatre. From here you have a magnificent view over Athens. © Cracker Clips/AdobeStocks

Athens at sunset with golden sky and city skyline.

The most beautiful sunset: from Lycabettus Hill, you can see far across Athens to the sea. The cable car will take you to the top if you don’t want to walk © milangonda/AdobeStocks

Asteras Beach in Glyfada with clear water and sun umbrellas.

A trip to the sea: Asteras beach in Glyfada is a quick and easy tram ride away from Athens’ Syntagma Square. © aerial-drone/AdobeStocks

A culinary voyage of discovery

The way to the heart is through the stomach: if you really want to get to know and love Athens, a culinary voyage of discovery is a must! Rustic tavernas still uphold traditions today, serving classics like moussaka (aubergine casserole), saganaki (fried feta cheese), dolmádes (stuffed vine leaves) and souvlaki (grilled meat skewers). In some places there is no menu at all: they serve whatever is available. You can try Greek antipasti (“mezedakia”) and watch the locals drink ouzo in simple street cafés. A real Athenian highlight is the Athens Market Hall (Varvakios Agora), which offers a varied selection of fruit, olives and other delicacies alongside fresh fish.

Athenian cuisine

Souvlaki pita with chicken gyros, tomatoes, and onions served.

Mouth-watering: the famous souvlaki pita with chicken gyros is an ideal snack for in between meals. © Rawf8/AdobeStocks

Antipasti with olives, cheese, bread, and grilled vegetables arranged.

It’s impossible to imagine Greek cuisine without starters: antipasti such as olives, lentil salad and fried aubergines are often accompanied by wine or raki. © www.push2hit.de/AdobeStocks

Greek coffee served in a small cup with a glass of water beside it.

When your feet need a rest and your mind needs refreshment – a typical Greek coffee with a view provides a welcome break. © Василий Комарницкий/AdobeStocks

Cozy tavern in Plaka old town with outdoor seating.

Rustic tavernas, like those in the old town neighbourhood of Plaka, invite you to eat traditional dishes such as keftedakia (meatballs) and tzatziki in a relaxed atmosphere. © kite_rin/AdobeStocks

Fresh fish on ice displayed in the Athens market hall.

Not for the faint-hearted, but a real highlight: The Athens Market Hall (Varvakios Agora) is home to Europe’s largest fresh fish market. © Theastock/AdobeStocks