Athens: Cradle of Western Civilization

Athens, the centrepiece of Ancient Greece and as such the cradle of Western Civilization, is the largest city of Greece and also serves as its capital. Consistently ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful and liveable cities, Athens has been in continuous habitation for about 3400 years. Ancient Athens was a very powerful city state; this can be amply evident from Athens’ architectural and cultural wealth. Unsurprisingly, Athens is a major tourist centre and is one of the cultural capitals of the world. The city’s classical wealth is being painfully preserved and the city tries to creat new architecture that is in sync with its history and heritage. A vibrant and colourful city with a likable mixture of modern and pre-modern architecture, Athens is a wonderful mosaic that is to be seen to be believed. The city’s fine infrastructure and historical iconism are perhaps the most inviting of the many Athens tourist attractions.

Places to visit in Athens

Athens is home to a large number of significant and noteworthy buildings and structures, the beauty of which is only enhanced by the city’s unique environs and architectural iconism. Athens is a beautiful city and is home to some of the best classical architecture not only in Europe but the whole of the planet. Some of the more prominent Athens tourist sights include practically every nook and corner of Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio, the many narrow streets, Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, Kerameikos, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathianiko Stadium, Lycabettus Hill, Athens City Hall, Academy of Athens, University of Athens, Old Parliament, New Parliament, the many museums and galleries, etc.

Athens- Travel tips, languages spoken, cuisine

Athens is very safe for tourists; nevertheless, it is advisable that certain rather necessary precautions be taken including avoiding certain areas after dark, keeping valuables out of sight, etc. Athens is beautiful and the city’s eclectic mix of historical buildings and modern architecture is simply seen to be believed. Besides having some of the best avenues, walkways and buildings in the world, Athens also boasts a very vibrant and very good nightlife. The city is home to a multitude of restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, bars, discos, etc.

Athens is also home to some of the best malls and hotels in the country. The local language is Greek, but English is sparingly understood by one and all. The local currency is the Euro (EUR). The local cuisine draws influences from a variety of cuisines and has its own unique and distinct flavour. What’s more, it is freely available at very affordable prices. Athens has a large number of eateries catering to all types of cuisines and suited to all types of budgets; it is also home to some of the country’s best and most prolific restaurants.

Best time to visit Athens

The best time to visit Athens is from April to October.

Best way to reach Athens

• By Air: Athens is one of the region’s most important travel hubs, and is connected to most major destinations in the world via regular flights.
• By Rail: Athens is one of the most important railway stations in the Greek and European rail networks, and forms the terminating or origin point for many inter-city trains. Many high-speed trains also have a halt at Athens. For intra-city transport, there is an extensive tram network, a large metro system and a decent suburban rail network.
• By Road: Athens is well connected to all national and regional destinations and popular attractions. Further, Athens is also one of the major centres of Greece’s road transport system and as such offers comfortable transport options for almost all of the nearby Greece attractions. The city is the hub of intra-country bus travel in Greece. The road network within the city is rather good but prone to congestion. The intra-city bus network is also very convenient.
• By Sea: Athens is a major cruise ship destination, and almost all major cruise ships visiting the region make a call to Athens. There is also an intra-regional ferry and river-boat network.

Accommodation

The Athens accommodation scene is very active and wide enough to cater to all budgets and needs. Athens is home of some of the finest hotels in the continent. Further, many local and international tour operators offer Athens vacation package tours. These tours cover most of the Athens tourist destinations, but do not carry the element of risk and adventure that going solo does. One might even miss out on the many hidden attractions and surprises Athens may hold.