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What to see and do in Athens

1. The Plaka district

This is a particularly traditional and beautiful part of Athens. Neoclassical buildings, old cafés, restaurants and tavernas create a place of great interest. If you need a break, you can sit back and enjoy your coffee and the pleasant atmosphere. As you stroll through Plaka, you will see many ancient monuments, as well as a few small museums, in the countless picturesque streets. (see map of Athens)

2. The Acropolis

The Acropolis and the Parthenon are must-sees in Athens. They are associated with the identity of this city. Visit the sacred rock and admire the architecture of the Parthenon and other buildings that have stood for over 2,500 years. Of course, a visit to the Acropolis Museum, located just below the sacred rock, is a must; the museum is modern and has excellent exhibitions that will fascinate you. (see map of Athens)

3. The temple of Poseidon, at Sounion

In addition to the Parthenon, another of the city's most emblematic sites is the Temple of Poseidon. It is located just outside Athens, on Cape Sounion, by the sea. The temple is magnificent and the combination with the natural landscape makes it even more special. If possible, try to visit the temple at sunset for an even more magical experience (see map of Athens).

4. The Cultural Centre, Stavros Niarchos

At the end of Syngrou Avenue, in the Faliro delta, is the relatively new Stavros Niarchos Cultural Centre. It is a vast space that includes playgrounds, cafés, the National Opera and the National Library of Greece. As well as the modern architecture, which will impress you, you can also enjoy nature in the masterfully created landscape with the river and the immense green space. You can spend a whole day in this special place, which is ideal for adults and children alike. (see map of Athens)

5. Lycabetta Hill

Lycabetta is the second highest hill in Athens. You can climb it on foot or take the cable car to the top, where you'll find the little chapel of St George. The view from the hill is breathtaking. You can also visit the restaurant and cafeteria at the top and relax with the best panoramic view in the capital. During the summer months, concerts are also held in the open theatre of Lycabette (see map of Athens).

6. The national garden

Next to Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament, in the heart of Athens, there is a large green space where you can escape from everyday life and forget your worries. It's also a wonderful place for tourists. The National Garden has been in existence since 1840 and offers everyone a green space with numerous paths, ponds and a collection of plants and animals. There is a small zoo in the garden, which children will love. At the other end is the Zappeion, a neoclassical monument used for many official and private ceremonies. (see map of Athens)

7. Varvakeios market

Next to the Monastiraki district is a large covered market, full of colours, flavours and smells. The Varvakeios market supplies the people of Athens with fresh meat, fish, fruit, cold meats, nuts, cheese and spices from Greece and all over the world. The atmosphere is unique and all the tourists are impressed by the picture. As well as being a great place to take photos and stroll around, it's also an ideal place to shop for quality products at low prices. (see map of Athens)

8. The National Archaeological Museum

If you love Greek culture and the art of antiquity, you can put your trust in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. It is just a 10-minute walk from Omonia Square. It has a very rich collection of objects from Greek antiquity, from the Archaic period to the Roman era. The museum is not too large, but a renovation project is underway that will give it all its splendour. (see map of Athens)

9. The Psyri district

As well as Plaka, there's also the nearby Psirri district, which has its own 'colour'. Here, too, you'll find numerous restaurants, unique bars and a lively nightlife. There are cheap shops and more expensive ones with their own aesthetic and character. If you're tired of going from attraction to attraction and museum to museum, this is the place to relax. (see map of Athens)

10. The Panathenaic Stadium

An impressive stadium, the only marble stadium in the world, has graced the centre of Athens for more than 2,300 years. Created by Herod Atticus, it was rebuilt in 1896 to host the first modern Olympic Games. Today, the Panathenaic Stadium is used as a venue for entertainment, culture and sport, with occasional events and the finish of the classic marathon course. You can enter the stadium and run on the track, or climb up onto the marble bleachers and enjoy an architectural masterpiece that is unique in the world (more on Athens, see wikipedia)