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Athens is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. From the Acropolis and Parthenon to the Plaka and Monastiraki districts, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Athens. So whether you're visiting for a few days or weeks, this travel guide will help you make the most of your trip. Here, we'll cover the best things to do, where to stay, and some of the best foods in Athens.

History 

The Great Powers appointed Otto, the king of the newly created state after Greece gained independence. He was a young Bavarian prince. He moved the capital from Nafplio to Athens.

This city was selected for its historical significance and not its size. The population then was approximately 4000-5000, with most people living in Plaka. There were also a few Byzantine-era buildings in Athens. After the capital was established, a modern city plan and new public buildings were created.

After the 1921 war with Turkey, the city experienced its first significant population growth. Over a million Greek refugees fled Asia Minor to settle in Greece. Nea Ionia, Nea Smyrni, and many other Athenian suburbs became refugee settlements near the city's outskirts. The German forces then captured Athens during World War II. It suffered one of the worst privations in its history, the Holocaust, in the last years of the war.

However, Athens grew again after the war. Greece also joined the EU in 1981. This was a significant step that strengthened Athens' economy. Athens also won the Olympic Games in 2004. The event was a great success and brought back international prestige to the birthplaces of democracy.

Best Time to Visit 

Although you can visit Athens all year, the weather is often cool and wet between November and March. However, Athens' best season is from late March to early June or late September to early November. This is when the weather is mild but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are lower than in July and August. Besides, Athens' most popular beaches are at their best from June to October.

Things to Do and Places to Visit

These are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Athens

The Acropolis 

The Acropolis is a 2,500-year-old rock outcrop in Athens' new metropolis. We place the Acropolis at the top of our list because it is one of Athens's best things to do. In addition, these monuments are among the most important architectural achievements of Greek antiquity. Do not miss visiting the Acropolis Museum and the ancient Agora.

The Parthenon 

The Parthenon is the Doric order's most significant achievement and Classical Greece's most important 21st Century building. It is a symbol of western civilization as well as Athenian democracy. 

The Parthenon was dedicated in honor of Athena. Callicrates and Ictinus co-designed it. It was at the time a city treasury, then a church in the 6th century, and finally a mosque by the 1460s. However, some Parthenon sculptures were stolen by The Earl of Elgin at the beginning of the 18th century. They were then sold to the British Museum, where they are still.

Temple of Hephaestus 

This temple is on top of the Agoraios Kolonos hill, 65 m high, on the northwest side of the Agora in Athens. It is a Doric Peripteral temple that is in remarkable condition.

Ictinus designed the temple, which was dedicated to Athena Hephaestus. It has six fluted columns along its west side and thirteen on its southern and north sides. It is also possible to see many sculpted parts, such as the Labor of Hercules and the metopes on the east side.

Plaka 

Plaka is an excellent antidote for traffic-heavy urban sprawl and the quiet ancient temples. It's located on the top of Athens's residential areas in the shadows of the Acropolis.

This district has narrow, winding alleyways with 19th-century facades adorned with flowering bougainvillea during summer. Plaka also has family-run shops selling everything from ceramics and musical instruments to handmade jewelry to food shops with olives, spices, and other goodies.

You can also grab a gyro and eat meze at Plaka, the best place for nightlife and dining. Moreover, Anafiotika lies below the Acropolis's rocky northerly slope. This whitewashed area was established during the 19th-century Otto of Greece's reign.

Panathenaic Stadium 

Panathenaic Stadium was built in 1896 to host the Olympics. It has a U-shape design and is also entirely made of marble. The stadium is almost precisely a replica of the 2nd century BC construction. It can accommodate 45,000 people. You can see the Acropolis and the National Garden at their highest levels.

Culture and Customs 

Athens is a popular tourist destination because of its friendly attitude to foreigners. However, understanding Greek etiquette can help you to interact with locals and integrate into society.

Language barriers are one of the most significant challenges visitors face. Athens' official language is Greek. But you may find English speakers in many tourist areas. However, it is always a good idea for visitors to bring a Greek dictionary or phrasebook. Knowing body language will also help you interact better with Athenians. Pay attention to your gestures. In Greece, the hand signal "OK" is made with the index fingers and thumb, for instance. 

The majority of the time, casual dress is acceptable. However, it's essential to consider your surroundings. While shorts and T-shirts suit hiking and other social outings, try to be more formal when visiting churches. For business trips to Athens, you should bring a dark-colored suit (or a coverall that covers your knees) and conservative clothing.

Moreover, Athenians don't eat dinner out until the later hours of the evening. This is usually around 9-10 p.m. Besides, it isn't nice to place your elbows on the table. However, it is polite to hold your hands up to the table. Tipping is not required for restaurant or bar bills. However, it is common to tip exceptional service.

Athens' official currency is the euro. Therefore, always check the exchange rate between the euro and the U.S. dollar before you go. Most shops and restaurants also accept major credit cards.

What to Eat 

These are some of the best foods to try when visiting Athens.

Tsoureki 

This bread is usually available during Easter. It features three braids that symbolize the Holy Trinity. It is a rare treat! Belle Vue is the perfect place to enjoy this delicious dish!

Dolmades 

Dolmades can come in many forms and vary from one Greek restaurant or household to the next. You will find them in the form of stuffed grape leaf parcels. However, hollowed-out vegetables such as tomatoes, courgettes, or peppers can also be found. You can substitute minced meat for rice or herbs such as thyme, dill, and oregano. Dolmades is available on almost any Greek restaurant's menu in Athens.

Moussaka 

This traditional Greek dish is a favorite and is widely eaten throughout Greece. They make this baked dish with roasted aubergines, minced beef, tomatoes, cheese, and creamy bechamel sauce.

Souvlaki Grilled Meats

You will find this dish in every part of the city. You can eat Gyros as a wrap in pita bread, with delicious dips or sauces like Tzatziki.

Horiatiki - Greek Salad 

This is one of the best salads you will ever taste. The freshness of the Greeks' flavors is reflected in the feta cheese and olives.

Spanakopita 

Pita (not confused with pitta bread) is the queen of street food. Various pies and pita bread are available at many coffee shops and small bakeries as an alternative to sandwiches during lunch. However, try artisan bakeries and pie shops if you want the best and freshest.

Bougatsa 

This pastry custard pie is sweet and creamy. You can also make it with minced meat or cheese. This lovely version is usually topped with cinnamon and icing sugar and served with coffee.

Saganaki 

Saganaki, a Greek cheese dish, is an appetizer. However, it would be best to wrap a cheese like a kasseri or gruyere in flour before baking it. This unique method produces melted cheese with a crunchy crust. It is also great with a salad or a slice of lemon. Although you can make it home, trying this Greek favorite at a local restaurant is best.

Where to Stay 

These are some of the best areas to stay in Athens. There are many boutique hotels in a central location. Also, 2 Luxury Collection Hotels in the heart of Athens offer rooftop restaurants with stunning views of the city. 

Syntagma 

Syntagma Square is the central point of Athens. Here is the Greek Parliament. To its right are the Evzones which are famous for their dramatic photographs.

The famous Ermou Street is also located here. It's easy to see why the street is so familiar. This is where TV reporters broadcast their news around the world. There are also many great hotels around Syntagma Square. Great bars, restaurants, cafes, and taverns are also close by.

Psiri - Monastiraki 

Psiri is an excellent place to stay, provided you pay attention and consider specific details. Look for hotels close to Ermou Street and Monastiraki Square. However, avoid those near Koumoundourou Square and Evripidou Street.

One of the city's most lively squares is right in front of Monastiraki Metro Station. There is a bustling flea market and many shops, restaurants, and cafes surrounding it. In addition, the area's rooftop bars offer unique views of the Acropolis. If you are sensitive to noise, you should ensure your accommodation is soundproofed.

Koukaki 

Koukaki is a neighborhood that has seen significant growth in Athens over the last few years. It is close to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, which are the main reasons for its development. It is also easily accessible via the Syngrou-Fix metro station.

This is a great place to go to have a local brunch or chill with a beer on a hot summer night. Koukaki is also the place to go if you want to experience modern Athens.

Kolonaki 

Kolonaki is the most exclusive neighborhood in Athens' center. It is also home to some of the most expensive shops. This area is ideal for those who want to be close to Athens' historic center and shop at luxury brands such as Rolex and Louis Vuitton. You can also enjoy coffee with local celebrities and business people. You will also find many unique museums in the vicinity.

Petralona 

Although Pangrati and Petralona are both densely populated areas, they are not very well-known to tourists. Petralona is a district that has no hotels, only apartments. However, it is a good option for those who want to feel "authentic Athenian" without moving too far from the historical center.

You will also be only two metro stops from Monastiraki. This means you'll be in the city for less than five minutes. Ano Petralona is part of the larger Petralona region and is a popular Athens area. The neighborhood is also great for relaxing drinks and food, far from the bustling center. Even if your stay is not here, don't forget to check out the local taverns.

Glyfada 

Glyfada and Vouliagmeni are the best options if you go to Athens to relax and enjoy the sea. The beaches will also be more apparent if you are further from the city center.

Glyfada, Athens's southernmost suburb, is one of the most beautiful and essential. There are many options for shopping, food, drink, and sports activities. You are also close to the city's center. With moderate traffic, driving to Syntagma will take approximately 25-30 minutes. Public transportation takes 45-50 minutes.

How to Get Around 

You can access Athens by foot or the metro. Moreover, many of the city's most popular attractions are either within walking distance of each other or within a short metro ride. Renting a car in Athens is a hassle because of the heavy traffic and difficult parking. Instead, you can take the metro's Line 3 and one of the four EXPRESS buses to Athens International Airport, located 23 miles southeast. 

Besides, you can take the bus or the train to Athens if you are coming from another part of Greece. You can also reach Athens by metro or taxi if you arrive by ship from other Mediterranean countries like Santorini, Crete, and the Saronic Islands. 

How to Stay Safe 

Pickpockets often target tourists on public transport and in high-traffic areas. Therefore, keeping valuables safe in your hotel and alert is essential. It is also common to be harassed racially, particularly at night in Omonia or Exarchia. So you might want to avoid these areas once the sun sets. In Athens, there have also been many domestic terrorist attacks in recent years. These areas are usually safe during daylight hours, but exercise caution and stay away from violent protests. Every year, they hold public demonstrations on December 6, November 17, and May 1.