The question is… What is a visit to Athens if you didn’t go to the Acropolis? It’s the symbol of Athens and a present-day testament of our connection to prehistoric civilizations! And yes, checking it out is a must! So be prepared to be awestruck as I take you around an ancient city on top of a hill! Ready?
1. The PARTHENON
Let’s be honest, most of us will go to Acropolis just to see the PARTHENON! It was attacked and severely damaged as a temple, a church and a mosque but still look stunning until today! Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare must have been really protecting it all this time!
2. Erechtheion
Believe it or not, this is the most sacred structure in Acropolis even more sacred than the Parthenon. It contains the graves of mythical kings and houses the wooden cult statue of Athena! It’s elegance and fine details will certainly catch your eye!
3. Propylaia
Welcome to the The Propylaia: the gateway to Acropolis! Clearly it was once the residence and sanctuary of the ruling class having such a grandiose entrance! Though it remains unfinished up until today, it is still a masterpiece of art considering its elaborate design and remarkably creative monumental gates!
4. The Temple of Athena Nike
Right next to the Propylaia is the most well-preserved temple in Acropolis: Temple of Athena Nike! “Nike” means victory in Greek for the information of everyone! It was built in honour to the goddess of victory Athena. It is the pearl of Acropolis as it is situated at the edge of a high cliff and is elaborately designed and decorated! Just a reminder, it’s really quite small and you might miss it so keep an eye out!
5. Old Temple of Athena
Located between Erechtheion and Parthenon is the old temple of Athena! It was dedicated to Athena Polias, the patron goddess of the city of Athens. This building was made out of of premium limestones though today only the foundations of its’ south side are visible to visitors.
6. Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Known as “Herodeon” to locals, the theatre has survived to this day almost in its original form! The outstanding political figure Herodes Atticus built this amphitheatre in memory of his beautiful wife Regilla who died at a young age. Built at the base of Acropolis, the Odeon seats 5,000 spectators per show. AAAhhhh… Writing this blog makes me want to fly back to Athens and witness a concert, play, ballet or opera in this magnificent open-air theatre!
And while in the Acropolis… Soak in the superb panorama of the city! The sights from this spot are as beautiful as the views from Mount Lycabettus!
And lastly… Here are my 10 tips before you go!
1. Arrive early morning or late in the afternoon. Stay ahead of the day trippers and group tours that come in hundreds!
2. Cash is king if you’re buying your tickets on site! You would have to line up longer if you’re paying by card!
3. Don’t forget to pack your hat, sunscreen and sunglasses to protect you from the hot sun & bright surroundings!
4. Avoid tripping or falling over the slippery white cobblestones by wearing good pair of walking shoes!
5. Pack lots of water. The sun is intense at the top of the hill, there is no shade because of its location so please stay hydrated!
6. Allow enough time to experience the Acropolis! Don’t be like other tourists who push and elbow in because they’re rushing and short in time.
7. Look up and take in views other than the Parthenon, the other monuments are worth your attention as well! PROMISE!
8. Do some research before you go. Having an understanding of what you’re looking at will make your experience more meaningful!
9. Please don’t be surprised that some structures are damaged and under construction.
10. For more information about opening times, ticket prices and transportation, visit their official website!
Visiting Acropolis is on many traveller’s bucket list all over the world so please make the most out of your trip! Hope my practical tips somehow help you in one way or two!
►You can also read my Athens in 24 hours city guide, by clicking this link!
If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask me in the comments!
Let’s also be Instagram buddies! Follow me: @thetravelbelle, Thank you guys!
Love from Greece,
The Travel Belle
52 comments
Wow I must add this to my bucket list. So stunning. Thanks for all the info
it will all be so worth the wait dear!
I’ve always wanted to visit Greece (Athens + the Islands). It’s filled with so much magnificent history.
i’m not a history buff but i def found the tours very fascinating!
Awesome guide, hopefully I’ll be in Greece in 2021 for my 45th birthday if all goes well! Thanks for the tips.
welcome Tamika. im sorry but i’m already greeting you an advance happy birthday!!! have the best 45th in Greece! xoxo
Excellent guide! As a Greek myself, I recommend you to visit Athens during this period (Spring). It’s the best time as it’s not too crowded and not too hot either!
i will come back next year and thinking of visiting during the spring!
I have always had an immense fascination with ancient cultures , and Greece is no exception. You took some lovely pics and it looks like you had a stunning time 🙂 What did it feel like to stand amongst those iconic buildings, possibly contemplating their glory days?
Thanks for reading hun! well it was really surreal. i felt like i was transported to the ancient times!
The Parthenon has always been on my list but adding Odeon of Herodes Atticus too!! Great photos and I can’t wait to take some of my own when we’re in Athens!
im so excited for you Sana! 🙂
This looks incredible ! I would love to go here one day and you’re right -I’d love to go to see the Parthenon! ha!
make sure to download the free audio guide!
Yes! This is my drram destination! Thanks for the informative post 🙂
thanks for reading! so excited for your trip!
oh my gosh this is incredible- ive never been to athens but i have always wanted to go- ill be using this guide to help me when it comes time! your pictures look incredible!
YAYYYY! its impossible to take a bad photo in the hill! Everything looks so amazing!
What an amazing experience! I’ve always dreamed of visiting Athens ever since I was a kid.
Travel Dreams do come true!
loved this post! I visited Athens two years ago and loved the history it still has around the city. My favourite were the statues in Erechtheion. Now i hope to go back to Greece and visit even more places around the country as well as the islands.
xx
malibluemymind.com
me too i have to visit more of the islands! i’ve only been to Mykonos and Santorini!
It looks amazing, so much history! I have never been to Athens but I would love to go.
Athens is waiting for you Ethan and Evelyn!
The Acropolis and the Parthenon are both on my travel bucketlist. Actually, Athens in general is on my list of places that I must see! The rich and vibrant history of Ancient Greece is always something that has fascinated me.
What a history buff! Athens can’t wait to see ya Emily!
Greece has always been on my mind, for like forever. Athen is gorgeous!!! This summer i hope.
3 more months! YOOOHOOO!
I’ve been wanting to go to Greece ever since I read The Sisterhood of the Traveling pants in middle school. Haven’t made it yet so thank you for taking such great photos.
What a coincidence i just finished watching the sisterhood of traveling pants just then! AHIHI
The pictures are so great, I felt like I just got a tour of the whole place. I should plan a trip to Greece soon!
Yes hun. Greece is really a must visit! I’m obsessed with it!
I’ve been all over Europe but not in Athens yet! I am hoping to go there this summer. Beautiful City. Thanks a lot for sharing.
You’re welcome! Please include Athens in your itinerary next time hun! 🥰
I have now seen so much of Athens that it is my cherished dream of visiting this place soon.
Awwwwww i’m glad you enjoyed the virtual tour!
What a great travel guide. Those historical places are a must visit with families and friends. I would love to go there.
Yes Please Agnes! Athens is waiting for yaaaaaaa!
My family visited in 1971 and It sure has changed a lot since then.
you’ll still feel the ancient vibes of the city until now hun!
I would love to go here one day. I’m adding it to my bucketlist.
YEHEY!!!
I doubt we will ever get a chance, but I would love to go on a trip here with my hubby! It would be wonderful to be there and feel the majestic aura of history represented by all those buildings and sites. Thanks for the virtual tour!
you’re welcome Dr. Banks!
Such a great and very detailed post. This guide can be very helpful in planning a trip to Athens. Thank you for sharing
Always happy to help Alexandra!
So many great reason to love Athens. One of the places I always wanted to visit.
YAYYYY!
Beautiful pictures. I love to visit Greece someday. Such a historical place Thanks for the inspiration.
you’re welcome!
I’ve been to Greece many time but never to Athens – it’s definitely on my bucket list. Your photos are gorgeous by the way!
Thanks pretty! Next time please make sure to spend some time in Athens!!! hugssss!