Athens is the largest and the capital city of Greece. It is one of the oldest, most historic and most beautiful cities in the world. It is known as the cradle of Western civilization, a cradle of knowledge and philosophy, the birthplace of democracy, and the birthplace of the Olympics. Athens is one of the most visited cities in Europe because of its good weather, beautiful scenery, historic monuments and many archaeological treasures. Its status as a major tourist destination is supported by many inns, hotels and restaurants that offer fine Greek cuisine.
Athens or Athina in Modern Greek is one of the most historic cities in Europe. Its recorded history goes back 3,400 years and many of its ancient monuments and buildings still stand most of which are located in the ancient Acropolis. Most famous of these buildings is the Parthenon whose facade has been copied in many places around the world. Athens was named after the Greek goddess of love Athena. In 1400 BC, Athens was already a major settlement. Democracy was introduced in the 508 BC. The city became a major naval power in 490 BC effectively deflecting several Persian invasions. Athens later progressed and became a cradle of knowledge and culture in what is known as the Golden Age of Greece populated by men such as Hippocrates, Socrates, and Plato.
Greece became a province of the Roman Empire and by the middle Ages was conquered by the by the Ottomans. When Greece gained independence in the 19th century, Athens was again chosen as capital. What is amazing about Athens and Greece is the preservation of their historic monuments and artworks. Many Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman buildings still exist. Many artifacts and archaeological discoveries are preserved in museums such as the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum. Currently, Athens remains the center of Greek economy, finance, industry and tourism.
Weather in Greece is friendly for tourists. Most of its rainy weather occurs during the winter season. Cozy inns and hotels and warm restaurants with their pleasant Greek cuisine make up for the rainy days. Getting an accommodation is easy because of the many hotels and inns available. There is a healthy competition among tourist establishments and deals for hotels, dining and tours can be found everywhere.
Getting around Athens to visit their stunning monuments is easy through their public mass transport system consisting of buses, trolleys, and trains. Neighborhoods in Athens tend to be as colorful and picturesque as its historic centers. Some ancient monuments and buildings are distributed among these neighborhoods. Extended hotel stays are a must because of all the sights and experiences Athens has to offer. Tourists can trek on their own or take advantage of museum tours, tours of the city and tours of the Acropolis and other famous sites.
There are many places to visit in Athens many of which are included in guided tours. The following are what to expect in Athens.
- The Parthenon – is the most recognizable landmark of Athens and Greece. It is located in the ancient city or the Acropolis.
- The New Acropolis Museum – is home to many Greek and Athenian artifacts and monuments. Those interested in the ancient world are sure to enjoy the exhibits in this museum.
- The Acropolis – is a cluster of ancient ruins on the city’s central hill. Visitors will surely enjoy a trip back in time. It is a museum in itself and is home to one of the wonders of the ancient world, the Parthenon.
- The Athens Planetarium – is one of the most modern planetariums of the world. Tourists especially children can enjoy something other than architecture and archaeological exhibits.
Visiting Athens is like going back in time. Tourists are advised to be armed with plenty of cameras and storage media to make the most of this ancient city. Accommodation in hotels, city and museum tours can easily be done online or by contacting the nearest travel agency.