1-day walking tour in Athens

Description:

Quite possibly the most famous symbol of Athens, if not all of Greece, the Acropolis crowns the city and provides a romantic focal point amidst the modern-day noise and mess. The word "Acropolis" comes from "Acro" meaning "High" and "polis" meaning city.

History

The Acropolis as we know it was masterminded by Pericles in the fifth century BC after the original Acropolis was burned to the ground by the Persian army. The sacred rock was dedicated to the goddess Athena since Neolithic times, but was also used as a gathering place during times of danger due to its strategic positioning. The rebuilt grouping of temples, framed by the Propylaea, or gateway, was intended to be a testament to human achievement and unique in the world in their beauty. They include the demure Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheum or Erechtheion, hallmarked by the Porch of Caryatids (maidens) and the queen of them all, the Parthenon. The Parthenon and the Propylaea were completed first, in under ten years. The temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheum were built after the death of Pericles.

In the centuries that followed, the sacred rock was used as a church, a fortress, a mosque, an arsenal, and pillaged... read more

Description:

South of the Acropolis stands the world's oldest theatre. It was constructed in the 6th century BC and rebuilt in the 4th century BC. All the works of the great ancient dramatists Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes were first performed at this location during the 5th century BC. Walking uphill towards the Acropolis, you will come across the Eumenes Arcade (constructed in the 2nd century BC) and the Asklepios Temple. Further to the west is the Odeon of Herod Atticus, a Roman theatre still used for concerts and performances.

Description:

The Odeon of Herod Atticus is an impressive open-air steep-sloped stone amphitheater situated on the south slope of the Acropolis. It was built by the Roman ruler Herodes Atticus in 161 AD in memory of his wife. It was originally constructed with a wooden roof with a seating capacity for 5,000. Since the 1950s the theater has been hosting musical, dance and theatrical events which are part of the Athens Festival. Check the Athens Festival calendar during the months of June through September. It is well worth experiencing a performance firsthand where you can admire this site in all its glory. It is located next to Dionysos Theater the world's oldest theatre built in the 6th century BC. Accessible by metro, Acropolis station.

Description:

Step in to what was once the 'agora" or marketplace of ancient Athens. This wasn't only a commercial center, but also where important political, religious and administrative transactions took place side by side. The Stoa of Attalos, an impressive two-story building built from Pentelic marble and limestone was donated by Attalos II, King of Pergamon in the 2nd century BC. Of note are the Doric and Ionic colonnades. The building was reconstructed in the mid 1950s and now displays objects unearthed during excavations. The archeological finds are housed within the Museum of the Ancient Agora. Just south of the Stoa of Attalos is the 11th century church of Agii Apostoli or the Holy Apostles, a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture. The exquisitely preserved 5th century BC Temple of Hephaistos, also know as Thission will definitely catch you eye. Continue to the Roman Agora and Tower of the Winds. The Keramikos Cemetery is a 7 minute walk south of the Ancient Agora along pedestrianized Ermou street in the direction of Gazi. Either the Monastiraki or Thissio metro stops bring you closest to the Ancient Agora's entrance.

Description:

The Roman Agora was built as an extension to the Ancient Agora in the 1st century BC. This marketplace contained a courtyard, shops, storerooms and stoas. Not to be missed is the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal marble tower which served as a water clock, compass, sundial, weather vane and water clock. On each of its eight sides is a depiction of a directional wind. There is also a relatively intact 15th century mosque north of the agora along with the Gate of Athena Archegetis. Visit the museum of Greek Popular Musical Instruments (URL) literally down the street. Walk back towards Monastiraki metro station and view Hadrian's Library. Closest metro: Monastiraki. For a flavor of Greek island architecture, walk up to Anafiotika.

Description:

Octagonal tower known in Greek as Aeridhes, was designed by astronomer Andronikos of Kyrrhos in the 1st century BC. It is one of the most interesting sights within the Roman Agora. This marble tower served as a water clock, compass, sundial, weather vane and water clock. On each side of the tower is a relief of a floating figure personifying the eight winds (Eolou, Boreas, Skiron, Zephyros, Lips, Notos, Euros, Apiliotis and Kaikias).

Our Local Expert Says:

Tables outside have great views of the Acropolis and of people passing by. Indoors cozy.

Description:

Located along Adrianou Street next to the Ancient Agora, this place is great for people-watching as well. To Kouti (The Box) stands head and shoulders above its neighboring restaurants that seem to rely too much on their location. The place looks like children decorated it with bright-colored crayons -- even the menu is handwritten in brightly illustrated children's books. Beyond decor, To Kouti has an unusual but very tasty menu: Try the beef in garlic and honey or the shrimp in carrots or opt for some of its exceptional vegetarian dishes. The homemade bread is served in (of course!) boxes.

Description:

One of the most authentic places for an alfresco dinner in Plaka is Xynos. Once you have managed to find the rather hidden entrance of this traditional taverna, you will discover the serene garden in the backyard where the tables have been set up. The unpretentious cuisine serves traditional Greek fare such as lamb, piglet and several vegetarian dishes. Musicians will accompany your dinner with a serenade of old songs.

Description:

Charming taverna nestled within the quaint historic Plaka district just below the Acropolis. Tou Psara, which means the fisherman's taverna, dates back to 1898 and occupies two restored homes, a tree-covered courtyard and a terrace. Choose a handful of flavourful appetizers or settle in for a more substantial meal by selecting a regional Greek dish. Yellow chequered table linens, exposed stonework and wood create a welcoming rustic ambience both in and outdoors. The bougainvillea-covered terrace offers views out over the city and the courtyard offers a neighbourhood charm. Dine to live folk music and enjoy the friendly service. This taverna offers a memorable Greek dining experience that sees many return guests, Athenians and visitors alike.

Description:

The Dora Stratou Dance Theatre sponsors a festival each summer which offers an excellent opportunity for guests to sample this wealth of customs and traditions through a spectacular presentation of Greek folk dances. The dances and songs (from all parts of Greece) are performed by a group of 75 dancers, musicians and singers all decked in traditional costumes. This garden theatre which has a capacity for 900 persons is located at the back of Philopappou Hill, near the Acropolis.