Constitution Square is a spacious public square in front of the 19th-century Royal Palace, the seat of the Greek Parliament since 1935. A popular meeting place with many visitors, it owes its name to the Constitution granted by King Otto, Greece's first monarch, in 1843 following a joint public and military uprising.

Today, the Constitution Square is well connected to many of the city's top attractions by roads, which also makes it a vital transportation hub with tram, bus, and subway services providing access to various essential destinations in and around Athens. It is also an important venue for public gatherings and political rallies.

The square is laid on two levels, with the eastern section elevated above the western part. At the center is a fountain, which, together with several benches, creates a perfect relaxation zone complemented by free public WiFi, two green areas planted with pine and orange trees, and cafes offering refreshments. The entire space is clad in white marble and was recently fitted with new lampposts.

A notable element of the square is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Here, the daily National Guard ceremony attracts tourists with a synchronized, high-stepping routine performed by soldiers dressed in distinctive uniforms, featuring kilts and pom-pom clogs. The tomb itself displays a poignant relief depicting a dying Greek hoplite warrior and was unveiled on the Independence Day of March 25, 1932.

Tip:
The lower end of the square is the starting point of Ermou Street, Athens' primary shopping thoroughfare.

Just behind the Voulí parliament building, this expansive 16-hectare (40-acre) park, held dear by all Athenians and formerly referred to as the "Royal Gardens", was officially renamed the National Gardens in 1923 by decree. The park's origins date back to the 1840s when Queen Amalía spearheaded its creation, even using the fledgling Greek navy to transport 15,000 seedlings from various corners of the world. Landscaping was entrusted to Prussian horticulturalist Friedrich Schmidt, an avid traveler who scoured the globe in search of rare plant specimens. Notably, Queen Amalía herself planted the avenue of Washingtonia fan palms, native to the southwestern United States.

While the gardens have undergone changes over the years, they remain a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Winding paths lead visitors past charming squares, park benches, and ponds inhabited by koi fish. Adding to the ambiance, visitors can explore remnants of Roman mosaics unearthed within the park and an ancient aqueduct. Throughout the gardens, you'll also encounter modern sculptures paying tribute to renowned writers such as Dionýsios Solomós (author of the Greek National Hymn), Aristotélis Valaorítis, and Jean Moreas. Towards the eastern end stands the neoclassical Zappeion Hall, constructed in 1888 as an Olympic facility. You will also find a duck pond, a small zoo, a small cafe, and a Children's Library and playground. The place is quite clean, suitable and safe for everyone in daytime.

Tip:
The pine-covered Ardittos Hill nearby offers one of the city's most serene and tranquil public spaces, along with stunning viewpoints.

The Panathenaic is truly a remarkable historical site, being the only major stadium in the world constructed entirely of white marble. Its origins trace back to ancient times when it served as the venue for the athletic competitions of the Panathenaic Games, dedicated to the Goddess Athena and held every four years. The stadium underwent significant transformations, with a marble reconstruction in 329 BC and later expansion and renovation in 140 AD, accommodating up to 50,000 spectators.

Having fallen into disuse and disrepair after the 4th century AD, it was rediscovered and revitalized for the modern era, playing a pivotal role in the revival of the Olympic Games in the late 19th century. Despite its smaller scale compared to contemporary Olympic venues, the Panathenaic's elegant simplicity and iconic five Olympic rings continue to inspire awe. At the entrance, you'll encounter four stones engraved with the interesting history of the Olympics from the late 19th century to the present day.

The inaugural international Olympic Games in modern history were held here in 1896, with King George I of Greece opening the ceremony. Among participants were 241 male athletes from 14 countries, competing in 9 sports and 43 events. These early modern Olympic sports included athletics, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, tennis, shooting, swimming, weightlifting, and wrestling. Since then, athletes from across the globe have convened every four years, with the tradition enduring through the tumultuous 20th century wars.

Why You Should Visit:
A captivating place to explore, and you can enhance your visit with the free audio guide provided.
The on-site museum provides an engaging exhibition on the fascinating history of the Olympics.

Tip:
Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the upper tier for stunning views of the stadium.

Even in its ruined state, the Athenian temple of Olympian Zeus remains a monument of awe-inspiring proportions, surpassing even the Parthenon in size. This colossal edifice saw its construction commence in the 6th century BC during the rule of the tyrant Peisistratos, who allegedly initiated the ambitious project to garner public favor. However, despite numerous attempts spanning many years to complete what would have been the greatest temple in the ancient world, it remained unfinished for over six and a half centuries.

In AD 132, the Roman emperor Hadrian, renowned for his admiration of classical Greek culture, dedicated the temple to Zeus Olympios during the Panhellenic festival, a competition of music and poetry held the year before the Olympics. This act took place during his second visit to Athens, and Hadrian also placed a gold and ivory inlaid statue of the god Zeus inside the temple. Regrettably, both the statue of Zeus and a colossal statue of the emperor himself have since been lost to history.

Today, only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns remain standing, each at a height of 17 meters (56 feet) – but enough to provide a sense of the temple's immense scale, which would have spanned about 96 meters (315 feet) in length and 40 meters (130 feet) in width. Nearby, there lies a 16th column that toppled during a storm in 1852, bearing witness to the passage of time. The temple's ruins extend beyond the towering columns, although entry into the temple may be restricted at times due to ongoing archaeological excavations.

Adjacent stands Hadrian's Arch, constructed in AD 131 and intentionally positioned to demarcate the boundary between the ancient city and the new Athens envisioned by Emperor Hadrian.

Tip:
For visitors who have acquired the Acropolis multi-site ticket, access to this historical site is automatically granted.

Resembling a triumphal arch, this monumental gateway was built to celebrate the arrival of Roman Emperor Hadrian and pay tribute to his many benefactions to the city. It serves as a symbolic passage between the ancient part of Athens and the newly developed district, largely conceived during Hadrian's rule, which extended until the year 138 A.D. Hadrian was a great admirer of classical Greek literature, philosophy, and arts. During his reign, he generously sponsored several significant projects in Athens, including Hadrian's Library, the Hadrianic Aqueduct, and the completion of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, among others.

The entire structure dedicated to honoring Hadrian is constructed from marble quarried from Mount Pentelicus, located 18 kilometers away. In terms of design, it is fully symmetrical, both from the front and the sides; however, while the lower section draws inspiration from similar Roman arches, the upper part is typical of Greek ones. Inscriptions etched into the monument's surfaces celebrate the new Roman era: the northwest frieze bears the inscription, 'This is Athens, the Ancient city of Theseus,' whereas the southeast frieze declares, 'This is the city of Hadrian, and not of Theseus.'

Why You Should Visit:
One of the most important Roman monuments surviving in Athens, providing an opportunity to gain insights into the relationship between the Roman Empire and its province of Achaea, conquered by the Romans in the year 146 BC.

Tip:
While the monument can be admired from a distance during a stroll through Athens, for a closer view, you may opt to purchase a ticket for the Temple of Olympian Zeus or a combination ticket providing access to the city's major archaeological sites.

The modern Acropolis Museum is a four-story, full-glass depository of all artifacts discovered in and around the Acropolis since 2009. Collections are presented on the first three floors, while the fourth floor houses a museum shop and café serving authentic Greek cuisine.

At the entry, visitors are welcomed by an ancient owl, the revered bird of Athena goddess, dating back to 500 BC. The array of exhibits includes freestanding sculptures of deities and humans, marble figures, fragmented artifacts, and friezes. The exterior entrance and walkways are paved mostly with glass to allow visitors a glimpse of the excavated remnants of the ancient civilization beneath.

The collection is chronologically arranged, starting with discoveries from the Acropolis slopes, such as statues and reliefs from the Sanctuary of Asclepius. The Archaic Collection is displayed in a double-height gallery, showcasing fragments of painted pedimental statues with mythological scenes, including Hercules grappling with monsters. On the level below, the post-Parthenon Collection comprises sculptures from the Temple of Athena Nike and architectural elements from the Propylaea and the Erechtheion. This includes five of the original six caryatids from the south porch; the sixth one is held at the British Museum.

Well-organized and air-conditioned, the Acropolis Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of ancient Athens, as well as affords visitors panoramic views of the Acropolis itself. Multimedia presentations enhance the experience, and personal guides available on site provide for a deeper understanding of displayed artifacts.

Tip:
Start with the informative video on the third floor. Then work your way downward, and take a break on the outdoor terrace on the second floor.

Perched atop the Acropolis, overlooking the city of Athens, the ancient temple of Parthenon is one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of classical architecture in the world. Built in the 5th century BC under the leadership of the Athenian statesman Pericles, this temple replaced an older sanctuary dedicated to the city's patron deity, Athena. Covered in ivory and gold, the 12-meter statue of the goddess of wisdom and warfare—"Athena Parthenos"—took center stage.

At that time, Athens was at the height of its power and influence, particularly after its victory in the Persian Wars and the establishment of the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states. The temple's construction was not just a religious endeavor but also a political statement, symbolizing the city's wealth, cultural achievements, and its leadership in promoting democracy and the arts.

A prime example of Doric architecture, the structure was built using high-quality Pentelic marble. In the 5th century AD, it was converted into a church, and later, under Turkish rule, into a mosque. In 1687, during the Venetian siege of the Acropolis, the temple suffered substantial damage from bombardment. Further harm occurred in the early 19th century, when Lord Elgin looted much of its sculptural decoration, currently displayed at the British Museum.

Despite these adversities, the Parthenon endures as one of Greece's most significant surviving architectural monuments and, over the years, has been a source of inspiration for many public buildings worldwide. Originally constructed as a testament to the glory of ancient Athens, it still serves as the city's emblem.

Tips:
Plan your visit to the Acropolis early in the morning to avoid long queues.
The site has two entrance gates; make sure you enter and exit via different gates so as to fully explore the site.
To save money, consider purchasing a combined ticket that covers entry to other attractions too, such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Theater of Dionysus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora of Athens.

Perched on the southern slopes of the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysos holds immense cultural and historical importance as the birthplace of and a central venue for Greek drama.

The location was deliberately chosen near the temple of Dionysus, the god of wine and patron of drama. During the 5th century BC, the ancient Greeks held an annual festival in honor of the god Dionysus. The central events of the festival were the theatrical performances of dramatic tragedies and comedies.

The Dionysus Festival typically spanned about five to six days. Theatrical competitions were held during the festival, and winning the competitions was highly esteemed. Winners received both public honors and cash prizes. It was during these annual Dionysia festivals that renowned Greek playwrights, such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, saw their works staged here as part of theatrical contests.

The ruins visible today are partly remnants of a much larger structure built by the Romans, capable of seating up to 17,000. The Romans used it as a gladiatorial arena, for which purpose, a marble balustrade with metal railings was added for spectators' safety.

Also of note is a cave above the theater dedicated to the goddess Artemis. In the Byzantine era, this cave was transformed into a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Cave and served as a place where mothers brought their ailing children.

Today, the Theater of Dionysus serves as a symbol of Athens's enduring legacy in the arts and theatre. Sitting in one of its stone seats is a great way to appreciate this historically significant theater in the Western world.

This stone amphitheater, nestled at the base of the Acropolis, ranks among Athens' most sizable and best-preserved classical Greek theatrical venues. Constructed in 161 AD by the wealthy Greek aristocrat and Roman consul Herodes Atticus, it was meant as a memorial to his wife.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, often simply referred to as the Herodeion, was primarily used as a venue for musical and dramatic performances. The theater was equipped to accommodate orchestral and vocal performances. This included both solo and group performances, ranging from choral works to instrumental music.

The Odeon was also used for theatrical performances, which were an integral part of ancient Greek culture. These performances included tragedies, comedies, and other dramatic works, reflecting the rich tradition of Greek drama. In addition to its use for performances, the Herodeion was a venue for public events and ceremonies, contributing to its role as a central cultural hub in ancient Athens.

Originally, the orchestra area was covered by a cedar roof. The spectators' seats were likely open to the sky, as there are no remnants of supports for an extended roof here.

Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant venue for a variety of cultural events, including performances of classical music, drama, and modern productions. Attending a concert here on a balmy summer evening, with the moon overhead, is a great way to experience firsthand the magnificence of ancient Greek architecture at its peak!

Tips:
International acts are frequent, so check the program ahead of your trip to Athens. Of course, securing tickets in advance is contingent on favorable weather conditions for an open-air concert.

Measuring a mere 11 feet (3.3 meters) in height, this small, jewel-box-like temple often escapes notice amid the grandeur of the Acropolis. Positioned atop the rock wall to the right of the Propylaea Gate, it comes into view as you enter the Acropolis from the upper right.

Despite being destroyed twice in its history, this temple has been meticulously reconstructed, using original masonry fragments. As a result, you can now appreciate its immaculate symmetrical design, featuring four Ionic columns at each end, just as it was in 420 BC. Back then Athenians gathered here to commemorate their victories over the Persians (the temple's frieze showcases scenes from the Battle of Plataea in 479 BC).

Designed by Kallikrates, the temple served dual roles as an observation point and an ancient shrine dedicated to the goddess of victory, Athena Nike. A remarkable sculpture of her graces the temple's balustrade. Unlike typical statues that usually depict the goddess with wings, this one is wingless, symbolizing the idea that victory will never leave the city.

Legend has it that the temple's location marks the spot where King Aegeus awaited his son, Theseus, from a mission to Crete to vanquish the Minotaur. Theseus promised that, if successful, upon his return, he would raise white sails on his ship (instead of the usual black). But Theseus forgot his pledge. When the king saw the black sails, he assumed that his son was killed and plunged into the sea, which today bears his name - the Aegean Sea.

Nestled in the shadow of the Acropolis and frequently likened to the charming whitewashed villages of the rural Greek islands, Anafiotika is one of Athens' most delightful and idiosyncratic neighborhoods. Situated in the capital's Plaka district, it is poetically described as a "breeze of the Aegean" in the heart of the city, and as such exudes a unique character and ambiance.

Originally settled by the descendants of Anafi stonemasons, who arrived in the 19th century to work in the expanding capital, Anafiotika has retained much of its original charm. The area features simple stone houses, some of which are built directly into the bedrock. Many of them remain unchanged while others have undergone restoration over the years.

The cascades of vibrant bougainvillea and pots of geraniums and marigolds adorn the balconies and rooftops, adding to the prevailing tranquility that contrasts the bustle and noise of modern Athens. Back in antiquity, this area was abandoned because the Delphic Oracle claimed it as a sacred ground. Later, during Ottoman rule, locals ingeniously constructed their homes overnight, taking advantage of the law that granted ownership of the property if it were erected between sunset and sunrise.

Recently renovated, the Plaka Stairs neighborhood abounds in small eateries and bars scattered on the slopes of the Acropolis, particularly along Mnisikleous pedestrian street and its vicinity. Due to the hilly landscape, this street is designed in the form of steps, lined with cafes and restaurants on both sides. Creative and often compact seating arrangements along the steps create a lively atmosphere filled with music and the cheerful voices of the passers-by. This unique dining experience is guaranteed from early lunchtime until the evening.

Tip:
For those seeking a lovely spot for dinner and drinks, the Anafiotika Cafe Restaurant, located on the narrow Plaka Steps, offers a spacious patio area and a rooftop terrace that is perfect for catching the sunset.