Athens, Greece is the birthplace of democracy and the cornerstone of philosophy. It’s impossible to walk around the massive and stately Acropolis and not contemplate the ancestors of Western civilization that trod those same paths, maybe even feel a kinship with those great ones that came before you. Are you an Athenian, too?

Athens is one of the highlights of Europe that should not be missed. The city’s dichotomy of ancient and modern merge in a riveting, yet sometimes overpowering manner. Below the sacred hill of the Acropolis, smog and noise are rampant as horns honk and cars belch along congested streets lined with concrete high rises. But there are also cobbled pedestrian-only lanes where you can sample traditional Greek dishes in vine-swathed tavernas or discover dusty treasures in a packed bazaar. Or maybe you spend the heat of the day in the air conditioned respite of a museum of antiquity, then the evening at an outdoor cinema sipping ouzo under the stars.

I’m an Athenian Too

In the wake of Greece’s most severe economic crisis of modern times, the country has worked hard to renovate and reinvent its capital city, and the modern makeover results are charming. An international tourism campaign called, “I’m an Aθenian Too” invites visitors to become honorary Athenians by sharing their visit to the city on social media, using the mobile app. As an incentive, the owners of the top 100 trending photos will be asked to write a story about how Athens inspires them, and three winners will win unique vacations for two to Athens! If you enter, be sure to let us know on our Facebook  and Twitter pages and we’ll be happy to share your photo to help it go viral!

Tips for Sightseeing in Athens

If it’s your first visit to Athens, you must start with a visit to the awe-inspiring Acropolis, the hill that was the sacred center of Greek genius during the Golden Age (fifth century BC). On the plateau at the top, you’ll be greeted with sweeping vistas of Athens and the Saronic Gulf and you can explore the ruins of three temples – Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. Travel Maestro tip: Wear sturdy shoes and take plenty of water for the ascent, which is steep, slippery and scorching hot midday.

At the base of the hill, the ultra-modern Acropolis Museum displays antiquities from the Acropolis dating to the sixth century BC. Athens has many wonderful museums, but another not to miss is the stunningly beautiful Benaki Museum for a succinct and fascinating introduction to Greek art. TM tip: Just opposite the Acropolis Museum is the Greek National Tourist Organization where you can pick up a free map of Athens’ important archaeological sites and museums.

Syntagma Square is the center of the city and a good place to get oriented. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony of the Evzones who guard the monument to the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek Parliament. Every hour, on the hour, soldiers dressed in traditional uniforms of short, pleated skirts and clogs with pom-poms execute choreographed high kicks with flair. TM tip: The Square is also a focal point for political demonstrations. If one occurs, stay away from the area.

The Agora (or market) was ancient Athens’ commercial center. There, the Theseion is the best-preserved ancient temple in Greece. Nearby is the Roman Forum and the graceful Tower of the Winds, which served as a sundial, water clock and weather vane.

The Plaka neighborhood is the oldest quarter in Athens. The labyrinth of narrow winding streets are packed with Byzantine churches, ancient monuments, quaint tavernas and small hotels. Visit Hadrian’s Arch, the original city gate and the ruins of the massive Temple of Zeus. Cars are banned in Plaka, but motorcycles and scooters rush everywhere in the frenetic pace of “Old Athens.”

Pnyx is one of Athens’ major heritage sites considered to be the birthplace of democracy. In 594 BC, ancient Athenians first met in democratic assembly on the semicircular terrace that could hold 10,000 people.

Shopping in Athens is impossible to avoid, with tiny little shops tucked into every alcove along narrow streets, their colorful wares spilling out to the walkway. The famous Monastiraki Flea Market is particularly exciting on Sundays and Ermou Street is one of Athens’ best shopping concourses for high-quality goods. TM tip: Souvenir shop and flea market vendors are aggressive and persistent, but don’t forget to bargain!

Two Final Travel Maestro tips for sightseeing in Athens:

• Do take advantage of the bargain-priced 12-euro multipass (local tourism office only) that covers entry to the Acropolis, the Agora of Athens, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Roman Forum, Theater of Dionysus, Hadrian’s Library and the Kerameikos cemetery.
• Don’t book “Athens by Night” tours pushed by hotels and tour companies in Athens. They are never worth the money. Covington can arrange customized private tours for any sightseeing you desire.

Athens is a fascinating city where antiquity blends with the modern world in captivating style. When you’re ready to become an Athenian too, contact the vacation advisors at Covington Travel to plan your visit.