Athens

About
Climate
Getting there
Getting around
Things to do
Shopping

Athens

Athens General Information

Athens is one of the world's oldest cities with its recorded history spanning around 3,400 years and being inhabited since the 11th Millennium BC. In the 5th century BCE classical Athens was a centre of arts, democracy, science and philosophy. Home of Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum, Athens is considered the cradle of western civilisation. Over the years, a multitude of conquerors occupied Athens, and erected unique, splendid monuments - a rare historical palimpsest, evident everywhere in the city.

In 1834, Athens became the capital of the modern Greek state. The choice was based on the symbolic significance of Athens' classical history. during that period the city was constructed around the Acropolis walls.

Today, the greater urban complex of the Greek metropolis is called Attica and includes suburbs and the neighbouring city of Piraeus. Home to more than 4 million people it is the political, social, cultural, financial and commercial centre of Greece. The contemporary urban scenery of the sprawling city reflects its exciting history, its multi-cultural modern personality as well as the infrastructure and facilities. In Athens and the wider Attica area, you will find high standard hotel accommodation, modern means of transportation such as the cutting edge modern metro, a wide choice of opportunities for shopping, dining and night life but above all the hospitality and warmth of its inhabitants. In other words, Athens is a must destination that combines modern urban innovation with history, culture and natural beauty throughout the year.

You will need several days to see Athens. The archaeological sites never end and the modern city has many surprises to offer!

Tap Water

Water quality in Athens is very good so drinking water from the tap in Athens and in most major cities of Greece is perfectly safe. Bottled water is readily available at convenience stores located on most streets, and for a very cheap price.

Climate

Attica and Athens' climate is mild with temperatures ranging from 20° to 30° celsius in Summer months and from 5° to 15° in winter. Rainfall is low while snowfall is rather rare. During the summer months there are sometimes heat waves which last two to three days , mainly in July and August. "Meltemia" is a summer wind which moderates the heat and makes the climate more pleasant.

Getting there

How to Get to Athens

Getting to Athens by air: The primary entry into Athens is El.Venizelos airport, situated 33km (20.5 miles) east of Athens. To get to town you have a choice between metro, suburban railway, bus, taxi, hire car or private transfer. Athens international airport is connected with Athens via the metro line 3. Alternatively you can take the suburban railway from Nreratziotissa station where you can take the Metro line 1 to the city centre or Piraeus Port. Athens International Airport is connected with the greater area of Athens via four express bus routes; X93 from Kifissos & Liosion intercity bus stations, X95 from Syntagma, X96 from Piraeus Port, X97 from Elliniko metro station. All buses run 24 hours. Regional buses (KTEL) connect Athens International Airport with the following destinations: Port of Rafina, Markopoulo, Port of Lavrio, Kalyvia and Keratea. Taxis from the airport to the city centre take an average of 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the traffic. Expect to pay from 35 to 55 euro (including freeway toll and luggage surcharge). Most major Rent A Car companies have their offices at the airport. During peak months cars may be booked out, so it is highly recommended that hire car arrangements are made before arrival. The easiest and most stress free way to travel from Athens International Airport to the city, the port or your hotel is via pre-booked transport, whether thats private or shared. Depending on service booked, a driver will either be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, or will give you a designated meeting point beforehand.

Getting to Athens by sea: If you arrive in Piraeus by boat, you can use the Metro to take you to the city centre or the express by X80 Piraeus-Acropolis-Syntagma. There is a free bus service that runs inside the harbour you can use to take you there id you disembark far away from the main entrance. Taxis are available at the front of the main terminal in the designated taxi bay, you will have to wait in line, you cannot hail a taxi from here, even with large amounts of people the wait does not tend to be too long. Do note that taxis charge extra for pick up and luggagee.

Arriving to Athens by train: The main train station (Larissis station) is not very far from the city centre. You can use the Metro (there is a station outside the main terminal) or a bus to take you anywhere in Athens. They are connected with the city centre and major Metro stations via buses. Taxis are available at the stations. Do note that they change extra for pick up and luggage.

Getting around

How to Get Around Athens

Most taxis in Athens are relatively new and in very good condition. They are clean and not very expensive. They are the most inexpensive taxis in Europe. The official taxis are yellow, with every driver being required to have their license displayed in the taxi. You can take a taxi from a designated taxi stand or you can simply hail a taxi from the street. Taxi stands are available at many hotels and major destinations like the airport and the port. Don't try hail a cab driving by at the airport-you have to use the stand with everyone else.

An empty taxi should have the light on the top of the car on and also the light on the top right corner, on the cars screen. Make sure you stand at the side of the road when you want to stop a taxi and hold your hand out. Once you get into a taxi, tell them exactly where you want to go and give them the address of where you're going. Read the flag fall and pricing information carefully. When you get out, make sure you check the correct amount. Pay the fees, check your belongings, then exit the taxi. The lowest fee for a short drive is 3.50 euro even if the taxi meter shows less. Tipping is optional for taxi drivers, but rounding up to the nearest euro or adding 5-10 extra euros is recommended. Smoking is not allowed in the cab and seatbelts are mandatory by law id you are sitting in the front.

A new ticketing system is taking place in Athens. You will have to purchase one of these tickets in order to catch any of the public transport in and throughout Athens. You can purchase either an ATH.ENA Card or an ATH.ENA Ticket for your transports. You will need to have either one in order to enter or exit the metro stations, or to take a bus, trolley or tram. The ATH.ENA Card is a debit type card on which you can add credit for tickets at the designated selling points inside the metro stations. The ATH.ENA Ticket can be used for one ticket product or you can add extra credits on it. Both of them can be purchased through the ticket booths found inside every metro station. The ATH.

ENA Ticket can also be purchased by the automated ticket machines placed inside every metro station. The ticket machines do not accept credit cards at the moment.

Things to do

Top Things to See in Athens

The Acropolis: The Acropolis is the symbol of Athens, the sacred rock, linking the fabulous ancient civilisation with the modern city. The monuments on the Sacred Rock date back to the prehistoric era and antiquity. The grandeur and beauty of the Acropolis attracts Greek and foreign visitors. A visit to the Acropolis is a unique experience and a must do for everyone visiting Greece. The Acropolis is made up of a range of sights;
The Propylaea: Adorned with monuments, the Propylaea is the grand entrance of the Acropolis. Built by Pericles in 437-432 BC, it was the work of the famous Athenian architect Mnesikles. They were incorporated in the wall which has been preserved until today and was built during the first half of the 5th century BC, in place of the older destroyed Cyclopean wall. Before reaching the Propylaea, you will pass through the Beule gate, part of the Roman fortifications of the Acropolis. Right after that you will encounter a 13m high pedestal, known as the "monument of Agrippa", on which the Athenians in, 27 BC, erected a statue of the Roman Marcus Agrippa, benefactor of the city.
The Temple of the Athena Victory: South of the Propylaea, the Temple of the Athena Victory was built, circa 420 BC, in commemoration of the victory of the Greeks against the Persiand. The temple was the work of the architect Kallikrates. The site was the location of a sanctuary in the prehistoric era. To the left of the temple you will find the Erechtheion. Facing the temple is the Parthenon.
The Parthenon: Undoubtedly the most well known site within the Acropolis, the Parthenon is an architectural masterpiece of great renown. You will appreciate its splendour if you visit, and learn about the history and the secrets of the construction of the magnificent structure. This unique temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, was built of Pentelic marble. The Parthenon of the classical era was built on the remains of the monumental earlier Parthenon, an archaic temple built in the late 6th century BC. The architects of the classical temple, which was constructed and decorated from 447-432 BC (in the golden century of Pericles), were Iktinos and Kallikrates. It is a Doric peripteral temple with 8 columns on the front and the back and 17 columns on each side. In the Parthenon stood the chryselephantine statue of Athena. the work of the famous sculptor Pheidias, who was also i charge of the overall construction. The statue was the destination of the great procession of the Panathenaea, depicted on the frieze of the temple.
The Erechtheion: Built from 420-406 BC at the most holy site of the Acropolis, where goddess Athena planted the olive tree, her sacred symbol. The tree was later destroyed by Persian invaders. According to mythology, following the expulsion of the Persians, the tree miraculously sprouted again. The Erechtheion is a unique temple constructed according to the style of ancient Athens. It is constructed on two levels. It is asymmetrical and has two balconies, which are both thematically connected to each other. The small balcony on the south side is better known, mainly due to the six Caryatids that support the roof. The differences between the sections of the temple may be die to the fact that the various part are dedicated to various gods. The eastern section was dedicated to Athena Poliada, and the wester section to Poseidon Erechtheus. The figures of the maidens, Caryatids, support in the roof of the the southern balcony of the temple are copies. Five of the six Maidens that once adorned the temple are displayed in the Acropolis Museum, while the sixth is displayed in the British Museum.

Monastiraki: A distinctive "old" Athens area, with narrow, irregularly criss-crossing streets, and small buildings, characteristic of Ottoman and to some extent Byzantine urban planning. On the outdoor stands of street sellers, or the small shops on the central roads (Adrianou St, Pandrosou St, Ifaistou St, Thiseiou St, Ayiou Filippou St, Astigos St and Ermou St) you can find anything, such as shoes, clothes, old and new furniture, old books and magazines, souvenirs, jewellery, hats, bronze objects, new and used records and CDs and traditional Greek instruments (bouzouki, touberleki). Shopping or walking in Monastiraki is an unforgettable experience. You will be stunned by the variety and quality of things you can buy in the Market. The main historic square, or platia, in Monastiraki has been fully renovates, paves with colourful stones and paving blocks forming a muti-coloured mosaic. In the background, marvel at the view of the the looming Acropolis and Plaka. In this magnificent square, significant monuments from manu different historic eras coexist. Such monumental sites are the Tzistarakis mosque, Hadrian's library, the Byzantine church of Pantanassa. Of particular interest also is the mezedes - in one of the small shops of the square, and observe the bustle of the bazaar.

Syntagma Square: Syntagma Square is Athens' central square. The name of the square is derived from an uprising on 3 September 1843, of the people and the guard of Athens before the then Royal Palace building, (what is now the Parliament), demanding that King Otto grant a Constitution (Syntagma means constitution). Syntagma Square and Omonia Square are the two central locations of the city. You should not be surprised when you ask directions if people refer to Syntagma Square. Plaka, the Acropolis, the Cathedral, the National Garden, Ermou St, and Kolonaki are located in the vicinity of Syntagma Square. You will find fashionable cafes and small restaurants located here. The square is busy around the clock. At the kiosks you will find miscellaneous items, among other souvenirs, newspapers, and foreign magazines. One of the most significant and well known sites within Syntagma Square is the Monument of the Unknown Soldier. Built from 1929-1932, in front of the Parliament, it is a sculpted depiction of a slain soldier (the work of sculptor K. Dimitriades), bearing an inscription with excerpts of Pericle's Epitaph. Commemorated on the marble wall surrounding the monument are the greatest battles of the Greek army posterior to 1821. Greek and visiting officials lay a wreath at the monument on national holidays. The monument is guarded by two selected troops, called Evzones, who wear the traditional uniform. The ceremony of the changing of the guard, which takes place every hour, is definitely worth seeing, especially on a Sunday morning (11 am) when it is accompanied by a military band and large regiment of Evzones.

The National Gardens: The National Gardens, open from dawn to sunset, are an oasis in the centre of the city. It has a total area of 160,000 meters squared. Some five hundred different kinds of plants, bushes and trees from various locations around the world are grown here (in total, it has 7,000 trees and 40,000 bushes). At the same time it comprises as important natural life reserve in Athens as manu different species of birds, hedge-hogs, turtles, ducks and even bats are gathered here. The National Garden - which was formerly known as the palace garden - was laid out from 1838-1860. There are six entrances: at Vassilisis Sofias Avenue, Irodou Attikou St, Vassilisis Amalias Avenue, and two entrances connecting the National Garden to the Zappeion. You will also find here a small pond, a small zoo, the Botanical Museum, a traditional cafe, a children's library, a playground, various monuments of antiquity, and the busts of important personalities of modern Greece (among others, politicians and and authors).

Kolonaki: Kolonaki is situated at an exclusive location, encompassed by Sydntagma Square, Vassilisis Sofias Avenue and the slopes of Lycabettus Hill. It was names after the old column (the Greek word for small column is kolonaki), in the centre of Kolonaki Square. The area was not developed before the 1880's. In Kolonaki you will dins parks and attractive buildings, built predominantly in the neoclassical and modernist architectural style, lending the area a distinguished character. It is considered the "aristocratic" neighbourhood of Athens. You will dins here the most expensive commercial shops, popular cafes and modern bars, and luxury restaurants. If you seek diversion and relaxation, go for a stroll at Patriarchou Ioakim St, Tsakalov St, Anagnostopoulou St, Milioni St, Fokylidou St, Karneadou St, Loukianou St, Ploutarchou St, Haritos St, Soedsipou St and the Lykabettos circular.

Lycabettus: A forrest in the heart of the city, it is considered by Athenians one of the most favourite places for hiking, resting and relaxing in the different cafes and restaurants operating there. According to mythology, goddess Athena wanted her temple in Acropolis to be closer to heaven. One stormy night she went to Mount Penteli and took a large rock with the purpose of placing it on the existing rock. As she transported the rock, two black birds approached her, bringing her bad news regarding something she had to take care of immediately. In her rage and hast, the rock fell in the centre of Athens. The rock, which is 278 metres high, is located in the centre of Athens. In ancient times the hill was covered by lush vegetation and on its top stood a temple dedicated to Zeus. by the time Athens was liberated from the turkish occupation, Lycabettus Hill had no trees at all. Reforestation started in 1180 and was completed in 1915. Don't miss the view of the Acropolis and of the entire city extending up to the sea. You will also enjoy walking along narrow paths all the way to the top of the hill.

Sounio - The Temple of Poseidon: The sanctuary of Sounio is the most important sanctuary of Attica. Situated at the unique site Cape Sounio, the sanctuary is one of the major sights of Greece. It is one hour's drive from the centre of Athens (68 km). The route to Sounio follows the coastline of the Saronic Gulf passing through the tourist resorts of Varkiza, Ayia Marina, Lagonissi, Saronida, Anavissos, et al. Look out of the window of your car or bus and you will enjoy the blue sea. You will also find here a multitude of cafes, tavernas serving fresh fish and ouzo. Here you will also find the famed Temple of Poseidon. At this site the ancient Greeks worshiped the god of the sea Poseidon. Preserved are 15 Doric style columns (originally there were 34). The temple was built during the Golden Age of Pericles on the ruins of a preceding temple. We do not know who the architect is, however, it is though that it is the architect who designed the Theseion. Its dimensions were 31.12 x x13.47m; it had a frieze with a sculpted decoration above the architrave of the vestibule. Following an examination of the finds unearthed in the area archaeologist have deduced that Poseidon was worshiped here before the 5th century BC.

Gazi: The former Gas works is at the centre of the neighbourhood, which was formerly called "Gazohori" (Gas Village). Located in western Athens, it is the third square of the city, in accordance with the Kleanthis Schaubert urban plan. It has to a large extent maintained the colour of a historic Athens neighbourhood. You will find cafes, bars and luxury restaurants, popular among Athenians, in a multitude of old, picturesque buildings. In the area, one can choose between different theatres and theatrical scenes.

Shopping

Where to Shop in Athens

At the city centre, but in the suburbs of Athens as well, you will find luxurious department stores and small intimate shops with all the brand names of fashion, as well as many amazing Greek products. Take a stroll around Ermou street, one of the best shopping areas, and its 2500 shops right at the heart of the traditional commercial area of Athens. Kolonaki is the area where you will find many shops selling expensive brands and haute couture. Feel the cosmopolitan air of Voukourestiou street, one of the hippest and trendiest in Europe with the prestigious designer boutiques and the world renowned jewellery stores. Discover the bohemian chic shops of Exarchia selling clothes, old records, books, art and hand-made jewellery, and the sensational Flea Market in Monastiraki, displaying great bargains on new and second-hand goods.

You will be surprised at the bargains you will find in Athens. Gold and silver jewellery are popular, given the international renown of Greek designers. A multitude of jewellers shop in the Syntagma Square and Kolonaki areas, have a wide selection of reproductions of ancient Greek jewels and traditional and modern designs. Most of them are hand made by local craftsmen. Moreover, at a multitude of Greek shops you can find silver and turquoise filigrans, most of them made in the city of Ioannina, in Epirus, with attractive traditional motifs.

It is worth a visit to the Ilias Lalounis Jewellery Museum. The Museum houses more than 3000 designs of jewels. Some 45 collections representing the history of Greek jewellery inspired by the are and architecture of eleven civilisations, nature , technology and biology.

You may be interested in the famous furs of Kastoria, the product of a craft that was perfected over the centuries. In the Syntagma Square area a multitude of fur shops offering a wide range of coasts, jackets and fur hats, with classic and modern designs.

You may also find bargain souvenirs, hand made good and bronze vases. Athens has been famous for its copper utensils, clay and ceramic goods since the Archaic Age. the ideal place to find unique items of Greek ceramic art and pottery is the suburb of Maroussi, where most designers and ceramicists have shops offering hand made goods.

You may also find a bargain quality woven wool and cotton jumper with unique designs and leather goods and shoes made by Greek designers, You will find these items at Ermou St and Kolonaki Square.

You will find an abundance of antiques in various shops in Kolonaki, Syntagma and Monastiraki. You may find various kinds of antiques, such as furniture, hand painted wooden trunks, attractive miniatures, and small decorative items.

Athens

Athens General Information

Climate

Getting there

How to Get to Athens

Getting around

How to Get Around Athens

Things to do

Top Things to See in Athens

Shopping

Where to Shop in Athens

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