Must Visit Attractions in Athens

Perched atop the crest of a rocky promontory, the Acropolis of Athens is a stunning spectacle of Greek Antiquity, and is counted among the most significant architectural complexes ever built. At the centerpiece of this ancient citadel is the abode of Goddess Athena – the remarkable Parthenon, which became the paragon of classical Greek architecture. Scattered across the rest of this legendary religious complex are several other monumental remnants of the world's first democracy, a sea of historic structures that were stupendously planned and constructed by statesman Pericles of Athens. The Propylaea forms an arresting gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, while the Temple of Erechtheion on the complex's north side pays ode to Poseidon and Athena. The Ionic Temple of Athena Nike rests on the southwest corner of the Acropolis and dates back to 420 BCE. A stoic symbol of victory, this temple stands as a treasured link to the ancient world.

A stunning vestige of the Classical period, the Temple of Hephaestus occupies a significant place in the vast lap of Athens’ ancient Agora. This doric-style temple is an exemplar of ancient Greek architecture, portraying an exquisite symphony of symmetrically arranged pillars and columns. Inaugurated around 415 BCE, this beautiful white marble structure is dedicated to the god of metalwork, Athena Ergane. Over the years, the temple was used an Orthodox church honouring Saint George, and as a burial site for philhellenes in the 19th Century. Despite the personalities it assumed over the ages, it remains today as an unwavering reminder of a civilization gone by.

Dedicated to Goddess Athena, the Parthenon is arguably one of the most recognized monuments of Greece. Located within the site of Acropolis, the marvelous and magnificent structure has a history that dates back to 447 BCE. Over the centuries, the Parthenon has witnessed many changes, destruction and reconstructions, along with a thoroughly mesmerizing history. It still stands tall, over 13.72 meters (45 feet) in height, representing the glorious Grecian history and all things classical. As such it is home to several Hellenic artifacts, invaluable artworks and sculptures.

Translating into ‘marketplace’ in modern-day Greek, the Agora was just that – a vast expanse at the foothills of the Acropolis where bygone communities met, debated, and thrived in commerce for several millennia. Its yawning stretch reveals a rich heritage excavated since 1931 by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens. Dotting the landscape like long-lost pieces of a jigsaw are ruins of numerous structures and buildings throughout Grecian history. Whether it is the 5th-century shrine to Aphrodite, the spectacular Altar of the Twelve Gods dedicated to Olympian deities, or the deeply ancient Stoa of Zeus, the Agora promises a stunning journey back in time. Few, however, can match the majestic form of the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the most gloriously preserved remnants of the Classical Era, located at the northwestern end of the Agora. Visitors can also find an array of archaeological finds dating back to the 7th Century BCE, proudly displayed at the Museum of the Ancient Agora within the Stoa of Attalos.

One of the city's major sights is the Panathenaic Stadium at the foot of Ardittos Hill. This huge horseshoe-shaped structure hosted the first contemporary Olympic Games back in 1896 when they were revived for the first time since antiquity. The present-day stadium is built on the site of an ancient stadium constructed in 330 BCE and later transformed by the Romans into an arena. It is the only stadium around the globe to be made out of white marble, hence the stadium's nickname "Kallimarmaro" which translates into "beautiful marble". With its capacity of 45,000 spectators, the stadium is used nowadays as a venue for large-scale events.

Mount Lycabettus or Lykavittos, located in the city of Athens, is a limestone hill belonging to the Cretaceous era. Sheathing its base are pine trees and at the peak are the Chapel of St. George, a restaurant, and a theater. Standing 300 meters (908 feet) above the sea level, this hill is a very popular with the tourists. Various artists like Bob Dylan, James Brown and Ray Charles have performed at the open- air theater, located at the peak of the hill. Hop in the railway car at the Lycabettus Funicular station, and ascend the hill to to discover a magnificent view of the city.

To experience the tranquility and colorful essence of Greece, visit Plaka also famously known as "Neighborhood of the Gods." This region is one of the oldest neighborhood in Athens. With varicolored buildings and charming cobbled pathways, it is known for its scenic views and rich history. This place is differentiated from other regions of Athens as it features accessible utilities which lie underground. Plaka is a popular tourist destination and is known for housing various museums like the Children’s Museum, Athens University Museum, Museum of Greek Children Art and more. In addition to this, it features the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates and the beautiful village of Anafiotika.

An architectural masterpiece of 6th Century BCE, this magnificent temple was dedicated to the worship of Zeus. In its prime, the temple's perimeter included 104 Corinthian columns, with additional columns inside the building that housed a huge gold and ivory statue of Zeus. After the temple's destruction by invaders in the 4th Century CE, the marble from the ruins started to vanish as it was being used as a building material for newer buildings. Today, only some of the temple's columns can be seen. Their immense height is a testimony to the size of this sanctuary.

Monastiraki Square is most notable for the Church of the Pantanassa which is nestled within it. This bustling square is near to many attractions, shops and cafes. Also famously known for its flea markets where one can get every sort of souvenir and gifts for their loved ones as a memory of Athens. It is a nice spot to walk around exploring the area and the square is well connected to the transportation facilities.

A mysterious attraction located in Penteli, the Davelis Cave is known to be the hide-out spot of the country's infamous outlaw, Davelis. The cave is home to a Byzantine church and is also known to be used for the worship of an old God, Panas. Several unusual occurrences have been reported by those who have visited this cave, including sightings of unusual human forms and eerie sounds. Visitors are usually apprehensive of visiting this cave, and even those who had their curiosity get the better of them, reported feeling highly uncomfortable inside this cave. Located in Pendeli Mountain, this cave is surely above the usual and ordinary.