Hilltops of Athens in Two Days

Description:

Opposite the Acropolis are three hilltops. All three hilltops offer panoramic views of the Parthenon and surroundings. On clear days you can see as far as the sea. As you walk up Philopappou hill note St. Loubardiaris to your right. This chapel was built under Ottoman occupation and restored in the mid 50s by well-known Greek architect Dimitrios Pikionis. At the summit of Philopappou hill is a monument erected in memory of Roman benefactor Philopappos. Pnyx hill is where the Athenian Assembly gathered in the 5th century – in open air! Arios Pagos hill is where the ancient parliament went to session. The closest metro station is Acropolis.

Description:

The Hellenic Children's museum was founded in 1987 by a group of experts in child development with the philosophy that direct experiences and entertainment support learning. Located in a restored neoclassical building in historic Plaka, it is dedicated to children from four to twelve years of age with a large number of hands-on interactive exhibits. While much of the written information is in Greek, there's plenty of activities that require no language at all and allow kids to play, research, think, experiment, create and observe.

*Read the NileGuide Local Flavor Blog featuring the Hellenic Children's Museum's start of the 2010/2011 season for a more in-depth look at what they do.

Description:

Take a look at what comes from Greece outside of Athens at the Museum of Greek Folk Art in Plaka. The museum's collection includes items from the 1700s to present day. On display are folk paintings, pottery, costumes worn for religious and wedding ceremonies, weavings and masks to name a few. A lot of what is on display was used in homes every day, while the more formal items were used when families entertained. The museum has a library with 5000 volumes of folklore and ethnology in addition to photo, film and sound archives. Other points of interest are the Museum of Greek Children's Art, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Vlassis Frissiras Museum of Contemporary European Art. The closest metro station is Syntagma.

Description:

The building at 10 Heraklidon Street served as the royal stables during the 19th century. Today, it has been transformed into an entertainment complex consisting of a café, a restaurant and a rock club. It is located in one of the oldest and most charming quarters of Athens, just a stone's throw away from the Acropolis. Tables are also set up on the traffic-free street and in the inner courtyard, which is a cool resting place on a hot summer day.

Description:

The southern slope of the Acropolis is the site of two ancient theaters. The one dedicated to Dionysos is the world's oldest theatre built in the 6th century BC. A few meters to the west is the Odeon of Herod Atticus, built under Roman rule. The Odeon, standing out for its impressive façade, was constructed by Herod Atticus in memory of his late wife. This majestic semicircular theater holding 5,000 people was inaugurated in 161 AD, but was destroyed a century later. Nowadays, the restored open-air Odeon serves as the city's major theater. The architectural beauty and the location just beneath the Acropolis makes it one of the world's most impressive venues for concerts and performances which are part of the Athens Festival. Check the Athens Festival calendar during the months of June through September. A short walk from the Acropolis metro station.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

Location, location, location. A picture perfect view of the Parthenon from the terrace of this café.

Description:

Dionysos Zonar's Restaurant occupies one of the world's most privileged locations. Customers can enjoy the view of the magnificent Acropolis while enjoying their coffee at Dionysos. The view is even better from the restaurant located on the top floor serving Greek and international cuisine. The complex named after the Greek God of wine is the ideal resting place after a visit to the Acropolis. Customers can sit either in the courtyard or on the terraces shaded by tall trees. The café opens for breakfast and stays open until after midnight.

Description:

One of the most unusual landmarks of the old town of Plaka is a cyclical marble tower constructed in the 4th Century BCE. On top of the tower stood a bronze tripod awarded by the city to the Maecenas Lysicrates, who sponsored the winning performance of a musical competition held in 334 BCE. The frieze above the inscription depicts the god Dionysos petting a panther in the company of satyrs who are pouring him wine. The monument, also called the "Lantern of Diogenes", was later used as a library, when it became part of a Catholic monastery in 1669.

Our Local Expert Says:

The combination of the museum's niche subject and one of the most important neoclassical buildings in Plaka makes it one of the best art museums in Athens.

Description:

Among the newest museums of Athens is the modern art collection of Vlassis Frissiras. This private museum occupies two beautifully renovated neo-classical mansions in the heart of Plaka, the old town of Athens. Among the 3,000 paintings and sculptures of the collection are works by some of the most renowned Greek artists such as Tsoklis, Moralis, Tetsis, Kessanlis and Psychopedis. European artists represented at the museum include Paladino, Blake and Adami among others. A café is at the disposal of the visitors.

Description:

A private museum space in the heart of Athens, under the shadow of the Acropolis. Housed within a newly refurbished building dating back to 1898, it is a beautiful example of Greece's neoclassical architecture. Within the museum, the most up-to-date security systems has been installed. The museum hosts exhibitions of work by Greek and foreign artists. The works of Francesco Scavullo will be showing during the fall of 2007. The permanent collection includes works of Victor Vasarely and M.C. Escher. The museum also host other events, such as musical performances, literary events, book presentations, scientific and other seminars, corporate presentations, conferences, and lectures beyond those pertaining to the visual arts. Tasteful gift shop and cafe.

Description:

Anyone who appreciates attention to detail, artistry and craftsmanship will enjoy a visit to one of the world's only jewelry museums where 4,000 creations of its founder, Ilias Lalounis, gleam brilliantly from display cases. You'll see all of the cultural and historical points of reference from which he drew inspiration, such as earrings inspired by an ivory plaque from Samaria, decorated with the motif of the sacred tree of life, or a pendant taken from the folds of a "chiton" an ancient Greek garments. The third level is given to temporary exhibitions by local artists and the first level has a protected courtyard for refreshments, rooms for special workshops (some directed specifically toward children) and a gift shop that sells fashion books, children's books, hats, t shirts, ceramics, silk scarves, and, hm... oh yes! World class jewelry.

Hours are 9-9 on Wednesday
Thr, Fri, Sat 8:30-4
Sunday 11-4
closed on Mondays

Acropolis Metro is a two minute walk. Located on Karyatidon and Kallisperi streets, just off of Dionysiou Areopagitou St.

Description:

When you're far away from home, it's nice to have space, be treated warmly, come back to a comfortable bed, get a big breakfast to start your day...and the guests of the Herodion are treated to all of these things. With 90 rooms the size of the hotel fits the "just right" category which means while you're not running into the same ten people every hour, you're not a nameless entity. You can't beat the location, just a stone's throw from newly pedestrianized Makrigianni Street, the Acropolis Metro Station and New Acropolis Museum. Many rooms along with the rooftop garden and jacuzzi offer an impressive view of the Acropolis, itself.

The owners are the same family behind the slightly more economical Philipos Hotel.

Description:

This boutique hotel is set in the centre of historic Athens, 200 metres from the Acropolis and 400 metres from the Temple of Zeus.

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  The 38 guestrooms feature warm decor and modern furnishings; all offer air conditioning, balconies and satellite television.
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  Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant, relax with drinks in the bar, and order from the room service menu.
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  Closest metro stop: Acropolis.

Description:

Behind a vine-covered gate, in a romantic white mansion, eight thousand years of Greek history come alive. Enjoy prehistoric works of art, rare manuscripts, Byzantine icons, historic weapons and paintings. The greatest attraction is the reconstructions of 18th and 19th century living. The museum also features a Childhood and Toy Department (with 15,000 historic games and children's items from around the world), a Chinese Art Department (with ceramics as old as 4,000 years) and a Coptic Art Department where displays include rare textiles from Egypt.

Along with the standing collection, temporary exhibitions that spotlight artwork and culture are rotated on the top level. The museum shop offers upscale treasures like hand-embroidered linens, painted porcelain, silver, and a hefty selection of premium books on Greek culture. A cafe and roof garden is located on the top level, providing an excellent place for a light snack, tea or coffee with a stunning view of the Acropolis.

The striking building was designed by Greek architect Anastasios Metaxas who was also responsible for the restoration of the Panathenaic Stadium one block away.The Benaki has two additional museums worth visiting: the Museum of Islamic Art and the Benaki Pireos Street Annexe.

The Benaki is part of the "Museum Mile" which includes the Cycladic Museum of Art, the War Museum, the National Gallery, and the Byzantine Museum.

Nearest Metro: Evangelismos

Description:

A member of Yes Hotels & Restaurants, the Periscope is a category A hotel in the heart of chic Kolonaki. Rooms feature free 24-hour internet access, TV, stereo, bathrobes, safe, direct dial pone, mini bar. Non smoking rooms available. A penthouse suite has a Jacuzzi and view to the Acropolis. Enjoy a cocktail at the trendy lounge bar.

Description:

From first glance, the little white 19th century church of St. George looks like a castle from a fairytale  perched atop Lykavittos, the highest point of the city. Lykavittos one of the most treasured green spaces of Athens, woven with paths used by the residents of underlying Kolonaki for jogging and dog-walking. A modern funicular provides access for those who prefer to climb up to the top without huffing and puffing, but all appreciate the dazzling cityscape of Athens spread out below and one of the best views of the Acropolis. Just before the large parking lot of the Lykavittus Theater (still used for rock concerts and a festival) near the cave and shrine of Agii Isidori, there are a couple of benches along the ledge for contemplating. More often they're used by amorous couples on a clear night.

The church is very popular for weddings, so road access could be tough on Saturdays. The funicular operates 365 days a year, 19 hours a day and costs 6 Euros round trip. It goes through the hill and lets out just under restaurant Orizantes, frequented by many tourists who have read of the extraordinary view of the dining room. There is an adjacent cafe with lighter fare as well as a cantina on the theatre parking lot with sandwiches and soft drinks.

Description:

After 10 years of serving happy clients on the island of Paros, famed fish taverna Papadakis closed its doors only to open them in 2005 to the same faithful clients in the chic Kolonaki neighborhood of Athens. Tables have rarely been empty. Chef-owner Argyro Barbarigou, a Paros native, and chef George Kostas prepare innovative Greek dishes using fresh ingredients with a twist. The octopus simmered in a honey-wine sauce is a favorite along with the Papadakis salad and a number of the seafood-based risotto dishes. They have a good wine list and even make their own ice cream. A hit is the halva (sesame and honey) ice cream. Order the dessert first! Reservations recommended.

Our Local Expert Says:

Authentic home cooking and fresh fish. Gets crowded weekday evenings and weekends.

Description:

On the ground level of an office complex in Kolonaki is the site of an eatery dedicated to ouzo, a traditional Greek liquor that is accompanied by a variety of tidbits, usually seafood. This place features a very large selection of ouzo and other traditional spirits in Athens. The menu includes a variety of flavorful dishes that make a perfect fit to this drink of choice. Diners will find meat, fish and vegetarian dishes.

Description:

Orizontes means horizon, named for the incredible scenery offered by the highest restaurant of the city. Take the cable care up Lycabettus Hill to reach Orizontes from Aristippou street in Kolonaki. The meals are pricey and unfortunately, not exceptional in a city where a remarkable meal can easily be obtained, but the view and elegant setting make for a fine impression. Resevations required.

Description:

The Nicholas P. Goulandris Foundation private museum houses a remarkable collection of objects dating back to the 3rd millennium. Among this collection which features art from ancient Greece, the Cycladic culture and Cyprus, what will imprint in the visitor's mind are the white marble Cycladic figurines and vessels. Of interest is also a permanent exhibition "Scenes from daily life in antiquity". An additional highlight are the temporary exhibitions in the Stathatos Mansion (Vasilissis Sophias Ave and 1 Irodotou St.), accessible via an internal passage way between the buildings. Don't miss touring this beautiful building, an outstanding example of 19th century Neoclassical architecture. In addition there are activities for children and museum reproductions at the museum shop. Exit the museum and head up into Kolonaki for a coffee or lunch. The closets metro stop is Evangelismos. Other museums in the vicinity are the Benaki Museum, National Gallery-Alexandros Soutzos Museum, War Museum and Byzantine Museum. If you want to escape the concrete and asphalt spent some time in the National Gardens.

Description:

For those who have done the bus and walking tours to death and need something with a little more gusto, Hop In tours offers this Helicopter Tour that includes a pick up from your hotel directly and an aerial view of all the major points of interest of Athens. They promise on their website to fly "the lowest and the slowest" (3000 feet over Athens) for optimal sightseeing.

1800.00 Euro for up to 5 people

Our Local Expert Says:

A hotel that gets you up and away without taking you far away. Fantastic views.

Description:

Built high on the slopes of Lykavittos Hill, this hotel offers spectacular views of the city. It is located in the trendy Kolonaki district, surrounded by elegant boutiques and restaurants. Syntagma Square is just a 15-minute walk away. All rooms (some with a view of the Acropolis) are equipped with a hairdryer, satellite TV, radio, voice mail and data port. Other amenities include a rooftop outdoor swimming pool, a library, two restaurants and a bar. Original works of art are on display in the hotel's public spaces. The hotel's restaurant and bar Frame is a hot spot during summer months as it offers alfreco dinning.

Description:

Amidst the row of museums on Vassilissis Sophia's Avenue stands the War Museum of Athens which explores the history of warfare. It covers a period of thousands of years, from pre-historic times until today and features all sorts of weapons—from stone axes to heavy artillery. The oldest exhibits are primitive weapons used in the stone age as well as more recent finds from the early bronze age. Other exhibits cover the classical and medieval period, the Greek War of Independence and conflicts of the 20th century—from the Balkan wars to the Second World War. You can even climb into the cockpit of a fighter plane

Description:

A former ducal mansion is home to the Byzantine and Christian museum which contains one of the most important collections of Byzantine icons in the world. On display are objects representing 1500 years of Byzantine architecture and art including sculptures, icons, textiles, mosaics, wood carvings and wall paintings. Recent renovations and a new museum extension have brought to light more than 1,200 objects that had been kept in storage. Visitors pass through "The Byzantine Empire", "From the ancient world to Byzantium" and "The Byzantine World". The museum is part of the "museum mile" which includes the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Benaki museum and right next door, the War museum exhibiting as one might expect weapons from the antiquity to the Second World War in addition to aircraft, uniforms and model warships. Closest metro stop is Evangelismos.

Description:

The building at 10 Heraklidon Street served as the royal stables during the 19th century. Today, it has been transformed into an entertainment complex consisting of a café, a restaurant and a rock club. It is located in Thissio, just a stone's throw away from the Acropolis and is one of many bars along pedestrianized Herakleidon Street. Enter Stavlos into the club which exudes a warmth from its wood and stone-studded interior. The inner courtyard is bright with trees and a glass roof. Sunday afternoons live music and Fridays there is a guest DJ.