-
The Acropolis
Named as a world heritage site, and the world’s most famous Acropolis, the Acropolis of Athens was first settled in 3000 BC. From this time it has served as a citadel for Athens, and holds within many historically significant structures. Most famous is the Parthenon but alongside this are many more. The Propylaia is the entrance to the Acropolis and is a rectangular building divided into two and decorated with stars on the ceiling. Before entering through this, the Temple of Athena Nike is on your right and is important as a commemoration of the Athenians’ victories over the Persians. On the most sacred site inside the Acropolis sits the Erechtheion – where Athena once planted an olive tree and Poseidon left his trident marks – both to try and ensure possession of Athens. On the southeast of the site is the Acropolis museum, housing inside it a collection of treasures found within the Acropolis. These include fragments of the Parthenon frieze, scenes from mythology statues and some restored sculptures.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166 -
The Parthenon
Visit one of the world’s most famous buildings in the heart of Athens. Completed in 438 BC, the Parthenon has been used for hugely varied functions - a church, a mosque and an arsenal to name a few. Due to severe damage - namely in 1687 when used as an arsenal and bombarded with cannon fire resulting in an explosion from within - most of the original features are no longer a part of the Parthenon. None-the-less, a visit to the Parthenon is well worthwhile as it is still the emblem of Athens, has received huge fame around the world, and is in a condition from which its past glory can be gauged. Standing at the East Cella the inner room of the temple is visible - the focus of this room, and of the entire Parthenon, would have been a statue of Athena made of ivory and gold and surrounded by offerings - a copy of this statue is currently displayed in the National Archaeological Museum. The West Cella was used as a treasury. The circumference of the Parthenon was once plated by an outer frieze; depicting myths and honouring Athena. The roof tiles and their supporting columns were made from marble. Finally, take a look at the southeast top corner where remains of carvings are visible.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166 -
The Roman Agora
Established as one of Greece's most important sites, The Agora is an ancient, 6th century BC marketplace, once the centre of politics, philosophy, commerce and religion. St Paul has preached here and Socrates has spoken. Today the Agora is filled with ancient monuments allowing for fantastic images of times past. See the ruins of Stoa Basileious, once the office of legal affairs; walk the circular Tholos, the building housing Athens' first parliament; and investigate the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, originally built by King Attalos II, and today a world-class museum.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166 -
Agora Museum
Exhibiting historical finds from the Agora site, and housed in the one time Stoa of Attalos, key artefacts displayed in the Agora museum include the earliest known caryx krater, a vase used at banquets; a huge bronze Spartan shield, taken by the Athenians in their victory over the Spartans; and the first inscribed text from the historic decision when every male citizen was given an equal vote.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166 -
Filopappos Hill
Winding through many historical landmark, the route to the top of Filapappos Hill is surprisingly accessible. Named after Roman senator Gaius Julius Filopappos, this hill with its shady pine-tree lined paths, allows visitors an enjoyable stroll to the top where a wonderful view over southern Athens and the Acropolis awaits you. Be sure to visit the other famous monuments in the surrounding area; the prison in which Socrates' was held; the old national observatory, observing earthquakes, weather and astronomy; and the Filopappos monument, dedicated to the Roman senator. Visit on the first day of lent and see a spectacular kite-flying display, performed by the many Athenians who flock here in celebration.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166 -
National Archaeological Museum
After the burial of its precious collection in World War II, the National Archaeological Museum reopened in 1946 and today displays some unique ancient Greek and Roman Artefacts. Collections of gold, bronze, pottery and jewellery from many different time periods make up a part of the Archaeological Museums great wealth of artefacts. Many statues are also displayed including a marble sculpture of Aphrodite, Eros and the goat-footed Pan, dating from 100 BC.
Show on map37.9892 23.7324 -
Theatrical Museum
A collection of memorabilia tracing Greek theatrical performances from classical times through to modern day performances; included in this collection are photos, playbills, programmes and costumes from a variety of genres - opera, musicals and theatre. A puppet theatre is also displayed, as are replica dressing rooms of some famous Greek actresses, aiming to give an insight into the life of a theatre performer.
Show on map37.9892 23.7324 -
Monastiráki Flea Market
Monastiráki's famous Flea Market is a wonderful place to visit for those who enjoy browsing through many antiques and collectibles. Discover a world of second-hand books and records, mixed with the newer kitsch artefacts and modern tourist souvenirs.
Show on map37.9762 23.7251 -
August Moon Festival
On the night of the August full moon, believed by Athenians to be the most beautiful moon in the year, various attractions throughout Athens are open to the public for free. These include the Acropolis, the Roman Agora, and varying others. Adding to the festival feel are the moonlit Greek dances, Opera performances and classical music performances that surround the ancient monuments. Be sure not to miss this spectacular event if you're in Athens during August.
Show on map37.9792 23.7166
Things to Do in Athens
Recommended Offers
 |
FREE Disney gift card worth up to $1000 Book a 14 night Disney holiday with Disney's Ultimate Tickets on selected dates and receive a gift card with a value of up to $1000! |
|
|
Low deposits on Summer 2010 Holidays Book your holiday for next summer and only pay a small deposit - from just £50pp! Then you only have to pay the balance 8 weeks before you travel. |
|
|
Top TV Offers Deals of the week including Cyprus, the Maldives, Rhodes, USA and Northern Europe Cruises. |
|
Beach holiday bargains Deals from your local airport Sky Travel cruise offers Tailor-made holidays City breaks and hotels |
|
Subscribe to Sky Travel's Newsletter
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter, packed with exclusive holiday deals, competitions, quizzes and travel ideas.
- Explore things to do in Athens
-
-
The Acropolis
Named as a world heritage site, and the world’s most famous Acropolis, the ...Read more -
The Parthenon
Visit one of the world’s most famous buildings in the heart of Athens. Completed ...Read more -
The Roman Agora
Established as one of Greece's most important sites, The Agora is an ancient, ...Read more -
Agora Museum
Exhibiting historical finds from the Agora site, and housed in the one time Stoa ...Read more -
Filopappos Hill
Winding through many historical landmark, the route to the top of Filapappos Hill ...Read more -
National Archaeological Museum
After the burial of its precious collection in World War II, the National Archaeological ...Read more -
Theatrical Museum
A collection of memorabilia tracing Greek theatrical performances from classical ...Read more -
Monastiráki Flea Market
Monastiráki's famous Flea Market is a wonderful place to visit for those ...Read more -
August Moon Festival
On the night of the August full moon, believed by Athenians to be the most beautiful ...Read more
-
-
Click on an entry in this list of Things to Do to see where that attraction is located on the map. You can learn more about the attraction by clicking the “Read more” link that pops up on the map.
