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Athens, GreeceAthens, Greece

Athens Guide - City Map - Top Attractions - Accommodation

Capital of Greece and the country’s largest city, Athens is dominated by the flat-topped hill of the Acropolis, site of the Parthenon, one of the most famous classical monuments in the world.

The Acropolis hill, so called the "Sacred Rock" of Athens, is the most important site of the city. During Perikles' Golden Age, ancient Greek civilization was represented in an ideal way on the hill and some of the architectural masterpieces of the period were erected on its ground.

Spreading around the Acropolis is the old quarter of the town, known as the Plaka, picturesque with its famed flea market, small tavernas, craft shops and narrow winding alleys. The centre of modern Athens, most notably the chic area of Kolonaki, has many designer boutiques, smart restaurants and international-class hotels. The city has a thriving nightlife, with most bars and clubs staying open until at least 3am.

The city's main port, Pireaus (or Pireas) is an easy metro journey from the centre of town. From here, ferries leave regularly for the Islands.

Top AttractionsTop Attractions

Parthenon
Take a walk up the Acropolis hill to see one of the most recognisable classical monuments in the world. Currenty under renovation, the Parthenon is a modern day reminder of the greatness of Ancient Greece.

The Plaka
Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, the "old town" or Plaka is the centre of Athens. Small, pretty Byzantine churches are hidden all over the Plaka. Great shopping too.

National Gardens
In the centre of the city and open all day, the National Gardens are home to rare and beautiful flowers, trees and bushes and decorated with little ponds. A relaxing break from the hubbub of the city.

Temple of Olympian Zeus
Located just to the south of Syntagma Square, the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once largest temple in Greece and housed one of the largest cult statues in the ancient world. After being pillaged by barbarians in the 3rd century AD, it fell into disuse and was reduced to ruins, but portions of the temple remain visible today.

Kallimarmaro Stadium
Also called the Panathenaic Stadium ("stadium of all the Athenians") this beautiful mable stadium was built in the 4th century BC and was the venue of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

When asking for directions, use Kallimarmaro Stadium ("made of fine marble") so as not to confuse it with the modern Olympic Stadium or the home ground of Panathinaikos Football Club.

AccommodationAccommodation

Athens Backpackers
12 Makri Street
Makryanni
Athens GR 117-42
Greece

The highest rated and ranked hostel in Athens in the best location. Only 2 min walk to the Acropolis and the Plaka where all the action is. Super clean rooms, roof top bar and, huge communal kitchen, free breakfast, 24 hr reception and Australian owned.

Book Here!

Prices: Dorm Rooms from 25.00 Euros.

Directions: Take the metro to the Acropolis, exit to Ath, Diachou St, walk 30 metres, turn your 1st left and you're there.
Or walk down Vas Amalias Ave from Syntagma Square as it turns into Syngrou Ave go right into Dionysiou Areopagitou (the old coble stone street almost opposite from the ancients pillars of Hadrians Arch) and second left into Makri St (approx 7-10 min walk from Syntagma Square).