Known as the Sacred Rock, the Acropolis is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. This is a must-see destination on any holiday to Athens as it takes you on a journey to the fifth-century BCE. At the heart of the Acropolis stands the Parthenon, a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Looming over the city of Athens, the Acropolis is an iconic landmark and an architectural wonder that played a significant role in Greek history.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus
Drive out of Athens to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the biggest doric temples in Greece and the most important building in Olympia. This magnificent structure was put up in honour of the Greek god, Zeus, and is twice as big as the Parthenon. Originally, it comprised 104 marble columns but, following a storm in the mid-19th century, only 15 remain . The monument is fringed by trees inside an archaeological park at the centre of the city.
Soak up the Views from Filopappou Hill
Away from the bustle of the capital, Filopappou Hill, also called the Hill of the Muses, is a green oasis believed to be the mythical battleground of Theseus and the Amazons. Linked by old stone paths, you can explore this ancient site on foot. At its summit is the Filopappou Monument and mausoleum, and you can enjoy immense views over Athens and the Acropolis from here. Walk to the foot of the hill and you’ll find a beautiful 16th-century church with a timber roof, marble floors and an 18th-century fresco of St Dimitrios.
Experience the Greek Culture
If you want to take time out from exploring the ancient sites on your holiday to Athens, the city has a vibrant cultural scene where you can hang with the locals. You’ll find plenty of cafes where people spill out onto the pavements– perfect for watching the world go by. Or why not visit the Monastiraki flea market where traders sell a range of second-hand goods? Athens also has an impressive art scene with a good selection of galleries where you can while away a couple of hours.
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium
Another ancient site you should try to see during an Athens holiday is the Panathenaic Stadium. Built entirely out of marble in the fourth-century BCE, and restored in the late-19th century, the stadium hosted the Panathenaic Games and was later used for the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Legend has it that at the time of Hadrian’s inauguration in 120 CE, 1,000 animals were sacrificed here. As you stand amid the sprawling rows of marble seats, you can almost hear the excitement and noise of the crowd from times gone by.
Holidays in Athens
The ancient city of Athens – capital of Greece – is known as the birthplace of modern civilisation and democracy, which means there’s plenty to explore on Athens holidays. Rising high above the city is the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and several temples. According to legend, Athena and Poseidon held a contest here to see who would possess control of Athens. Poseidon created a saltwater spring by throwing down his trident; Athena created an olive tree.
On our trips to Athens, you can embark on a walking city tour, with a chance to visit the Acropolis ruins and artefact-filled Acropolis Museum. Your journey is also one through history, from a time ruled by Zeus and the other Olympians to the modern age. In your free time, discover the vibrant arts scene that has sprung up in the shadow of the Acropolis. Filled with galleries, cafés, hip shops and start-ups, Kerameikos-Metaxourgeio is well worth exploring if you get the chance during your holiday to Athens.
You may also have time to explore the forests, mountains and picturesque coastline, where you can get closer to the native wildlife and nature or swim in a deserted cove. And don’t forget to visit a traditional Greek taverna on your holiday to Athens to sample the local ouzo and mezze.
The trip is very comprehensive seeing all the major sites and some of the lesser known sites but all added to the sense of the sophistication of Ancient Greece. George our guide was able to bring these sites to life with the stories of Greek mythology. There are some long-ish driving days but the scenery is stunning and was a great opportunity to bond with the group.
Excellent holiday only slightly affected by the Force 9 gales that blew for 5 days of our holiday . Karystos a lovely place , family run hotel clean and welcoming , guide Thanos brilliant in the face of having to rearrange whole of the walking itinerary !
