From Acropolis To Ancient Agora: Our Two-Day Guide To Exploring Athens

Acropolis. Picture: Unsplash

One of the greatest symbols of Greek architecture and antiquity, the famous Acropolis is a hilltop complex that is home to several Greek monuments including the majestic Parthenon, the large Propylene and the mesmerising temple of Athena Nike. The area, which survived the ravages of time, also offers stunning views of the city. You can also visit the Acropolis Museum which houses artefacts found on the Acropolis, right from the slopes to the various sections of the hill complex. 

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora of Athens. Picture: Unsplash

In Greek cities, Agora was the open space where all social and political discussion of the city would happen. Located on the northwest of the Acropolis, between the neighbourhoods of Thission and Monastiraki, Agora of Athens is known to be one of the most famous Greek agoras comprising the most renowned buildings – the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the most preserved ancient Greek temples in the country, and the Stoa of Attalos, which was once a trade market but is a museum today. 

Thissio

Thissio is the perfect neighbourhood for a leisurely stroll. Picture: ThisIsAthens.org/Georgio Makkas

Beautiful buildings, cafetaris and scattered vendors selling unique homemade jewellery makes Thissio an ideal place to spend your evening. When summer hits, Thissio transforms into an open area where one can see small live bands performing and people vibing on the streets making it a very joyful experience. The Observatory and the St. Marina’s Church are some of the places you can visit in Thissio during the evening. After nightfall, this neighbourhood transforms into a social hub with a plethora of bars and nightlife.

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square. Picture: Unsplash

This is the central square of Athens, for more than its geographical position. It is here that Athenians rose up against King Otto of Greece on September 3, 1843, and demanded a constitution; this is why Syntagma Square is also called Constitution Square. Built in 1843, this spot is where the famous changing of the guard ceremony starts and ends. The ceremony takes place everyday however, on Sundays the ceremony starts at 11 am and is a longer one. On one of the sides of the Syntagma square, hotel Grande Bretagne is located which is a 5-star hotel built in 1842 and transformed in 1874. Renowned celebrities usually stay here during their visit.

Panathenaic Stadium

Panathenaic Stadium. Picture: Unsplash

Known to be the birthplace of Olympic games, the Panathenaic Stadium dates back to the 4th century, and is the only stadium in the world to be made entirely of marble. With a capacity of 60,000 spectators, this stadium was the original venue of the Olympic games that started in 1896. The standard ticket price is €5 and for children under 6 years, the entry is free.

Psiri neighborhood

Vintage shop in Psiri. Picture: thisisathens.org/Thomas Gravanis

End your day in Psiri, the nightlife district of Athens. Since ancient times, this district has been the home of artisans who would practise their craft here. Even today, vibrant streets with Greek art and small art galleries makes this neighbourhood a must-visit. With cool bars and cute cafes playing live music, you can end your trip on a lively and fun note.

The National Archaeological Museum

National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Picture: Unsplash

Founded at the end of the 19th century, this museum was built to protect precious antiquities from all over Greece and to showcase their historical and cultural value. It is also the largest museum in Greece, and a central point for all Greek Antiquity art. It also houses the archaic terracotta statuette daidala that inspired the designers of the 2004 Athens Olympics mascot Athena and Phevos.