Athens is the capital Greece It is a sprawling city built between seven historic hills and surrounded by magnificent mountains.
This city has been inhabited for 3,000 years and is widely known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy.
Divided into a large city centre and an urban area, it offers a bewildering mix of historic and modern features.
The city is famous for its monuments, however, they are not just ancient ruins.
This bustling city is also an important center of culture, life and sports. Below is an overview of the top tourist attractions in Athens.
Top Tourist Attractions in Athens
Theater of Dionysus, Athens
Theater-obsessed travelers cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Theater of Dionysus, the oldest theater in Greece.
In ancient times, many of the most famous comedies and tragedies of ancient Greece were performed on stage here.
This theatre, originally a temple built in the 6th century BC, was dedicated to Dionysus, the god of joy in Greek mythology.
The theatre can seat 17,000 people and has been remodelled and restored several times over the course of its history.
Theater of Dionysus
Museum of Cycladic Art, Athens
What began in the 1960s when two individuals acquired artifacts associated with the Greek Cyclades Islands, has resulted in a world-class collection of Cycladic art.
Opened in 1986, the Museum of Cycladic Art houses over 3,000 artefacts from the period 3300 to 1100 BC in the Aegean archipelago.
Some of the marble statues are lifelike and large in size.
Some artifacts are also in groups such as heroes and gods to give a better picture of ancient Greek civilization.
Artifacts in the Museum of Cycladic Art
Temple of Athena Nike
It is an indescribably wonderful experience to visit the Temple of Athena Nike, which has stood prominently on the Athens Hill since 420 BC.
Nike is the Greek word for victory.
In this temple the ancient Greeks prayed for victory in the war against Sparta.
The temple was destroyed in the 17th century during a war between the Venetians and the Turks, but was rebuilt.
Temple of Athena Nike
Anafiotica
Ruins aren't the only things worth visiting in Athens.
Between the old and the sparkling new lies Anafiotika, an old neighborhood that is well worth a visit.
This picturesque spot in Athens can be found below the Acropolis and just north of the historic Plaka district.
It was built in the 1860s by order of King Otto I.
Many of the houses were destroyed in the 1950s for archaeological excavations, but 45% of the original houses still stand.
The houses feature Cycladic architecture, reminiscent of those found on the Greek islands.
The modest houses are still inhabited, many of them decorated with colorful bougainvillea.
Anafiotica
National Park
In the heart of Athens, the National Garden provides a green oasis for sunny afternoon strolls.
This public park was established in 1923.
It is a quiet place that gives you a breather away from the noisy city with a wonderful green canopy of trees and vibrant plant life.
Statues decorate gardens as well as flower beds and small monuments from ancient times.
The Zappeion Gardens can also be found here, which surround the old conference hall built in the 19th century.
National Park
Panathenaic Stadium
Although built by the ancients, the Panathenaic Stadium holds a special place in the history of sports.
This original stadium, dating back to around 300 BC, hosted several Olympic Games.
Most importantly, the stadium is where the Olympic flame begins its journey to the country hosting that year's sporting competitions.
In ancient times, the stadium hosted a religious festival dedicated to the goddess Athena every four years.
The current structure was restored in the 19th century for the first modern Olympic Games after centuries of neglect.
The Panathenaic Stadium has a capacity of 50,000 spectators and is the largest stadium in the world made entirely of marble.
The stadium is the main attraction in Athens.
Panathenaic Stadium
Mount Lycabettus
For romantic evenings, stunning sunsets and a stunning panoramic view of Athens, Mount Lycabettus is an incredible adventure.
As the highest point in Athens, it allows visitors to see all over the Attica Basin and the Aegean Sea.
Climbers can also see St. George's Church from its summit.
Visitors can also ride the funicular that departs from Plutarchio and Aristipou Street.
Mount Lycabettus
Syntagma Square
The main point of interest for any traveler to Athens is Syntagma Square.
The most famous aspect of Syntagma is the changing of the guards that takes place in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Greek Parliament building is located here as well as several bus, trolley and tram stations.
The fountain, ancient statues and two large grassy areas provide an ideal spot for photos and picnics.
Most of the major events that take place in Greece are celebrated in Syntagma Square.
It was also in this square that the military junta government was overthrown in 1974.
Besides the Greek Parliament building, there are also historic hotels such as the Grand Bretagne and the George II.
Changing of the guards in Syntagma Square
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