Visiting Athens: A Guide to Exploring the Acropolis and Beyond

When I travel, I really love getting out into the small towns and countryside to experience daily life. However, to take advantage of many world class sights and attractions, a few days in large cities are necessary.  Athens is the capital of Greece.  It’s also a very busy and densely populated place, but since it’s home to many historical and cultural sites, it’s well worth a stop on any Greek itinerary.  

Above the busy pedestrian shopping area known as the Plaka, the Acropolis crowns the city.  A short climb up centuries-old marble pavers leads to a collection of buildings and temples which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Temple of Athena was built around 500 BC followed by the huge and stunning classical Parthenon around 430 BC.  Arriving early in the morning is useful for beating both the heat and the crowds of tourists!  From the hilltop, visitors also have a beautiful 360-degree view of the city stretching all the way to the blue Aegean Sea. 

The Acropolis Museum, at the foot of the Acropolis, is one of the best historical museums I have ever visited. Constructed over seven years, it opened in 2007 and houses artefacts of great archeological importance.  A visit presents life in ancient Athens, and the excellent interpretive materials support amazing excavations under glass floors.  Discovered when the foundations were excavated, these displays give us a look at both historical and archeological wonders.

The National Archeological Museum is another great stop in Athens.  Here you will find art works as well as pottery and implements used in daily ancient life.  It’s much busy than the Acropolis, so offers a good opportunity for slow-paced examination of well-preserved and beautifully presented artefacts.

If you are planning a trip to Greece, allow three or four days to explore Athens – you won’t be disappointed in these wonders of the ancient world or the modern sights, sounds, and tastes that add to the experience! 

Safe Travels

Lynn

#TravelAdventures #ExploreGreece #AthensTrip #CityLife #HistoricAthens #CulturalSites #GreekItinerary #TravelInspiration #SmallTowns #CountrysideAdventures #WorldClassAttractions #GreekCapital #TravelTips #CityExploration #DailyLifeAbroad #TravelWithUs #RetiredLife #RetiredReinspired #AthensHistory #MustVisit