This ancient set of temples is visited by just about every Greek tourist, and is definitely a must see. Originally built by the world’s first democracy in the 5th century B.C. The Parthenon is the renowned temple of the group and is dedicated to the goddess Athena. Parthenon became the model of Greek architecture for years to follow. Be sure to check out the museum where you can purchase souvineers.

Check out Reymondos for to see a collection of French and English books like you’ve never seen before. Great for everyone with kids books, travel guides, fiction books and much more. The magazine section is also worth seeing.

Located near Syntagma Square in the pedestrian area of Voukourestiou Street

Construction begun on this must see temple in 515 B.C. The structure is dedicated to the one and only Zeus. Much of the temple was ruined during invasions in the 4th century A.D. and the years to follow, but the sheer magnitude of the columns is still awe inspiring. The total perimeter of the temple includes 104 Corinthian columns.

The main attraction for Syntagma Square and a must see for Greece visitors. Originally constructed by King Otto in 1840, it served as the royal palace until 1910 when it was ruined by a fire. It reopened in 1935 and serves as the National Assembly. Every hour on the hour there is a great photo opportunity during the “changing of the guard.” On Sundays at 10am there is a special performance of this with a very large group of soldiers.

Syntagma Square

A must see because this is one of the best museums in the world. Originally opened in 1889 this place houses magnificent exhibits such as the Cycladic idols, the giant Kouros statues, but the highlight is the 3,600+ year old gold mask from the Agamemnon. Also be sure to see other one-of-a-kind sites like the very first ‘computer’ dating back to the first century B.C., or the splendid exhibits from Ancient Egypt.

This is a great souvineer shop to get exceptional crafts, pottery, lamps, hand-made tin items from Morocco, delicate Indian furniture, marble items, decorated sheets, towels and much more. Fun for both lookers and buyers.

The Megaron is a top-of-the-line world renowned concert hall bringing the best venues to town. The magnificent marble exterior with homey wood lined interior makes this place very inviting for any concert hall listener. The acoustics here are exceptional. The Megaron features two concert halls, a 2,000 seater and a 500 seater.

This ancient Greek marketplace was the center of town from the 6th century B.C. until the 6th century A.D. Socrates walked the paths of Agora over 2,500 years ago, engaging in philosphical discussions with the towns people. Highlights include the Agora statures and ancient ruins from various buildings. The best preserved building is the Temple of Hephaistos or Thission, constructed in 5th century B.C. Be sure to also checkout the archaelogical jewel in the reconstructed Stoa Attalou from the 2nd century B.C.

Travel an hour from central Athens and reach the east coast of the Attica Peninsula where you will find Schinias Beach, arguably the best bathing spot in all of Greece. The place is just picture perfect with the fine sand, pine forest coastline, and a half-water horizon. A variety of stores and taverns are available for people just visiting for the day , and hotels can be found a short distance away in nearby Schinias.

The bust to Schinias leaves from Mavromateon Street at the Pedion Areos Park. Nearest metro stop: Victoria.

One of Europe’s largest market places in this impressive 1886 built building. Taste the wide variety of food from sheep, seafood, pig heads, fresh meats and vegetables and more. Try all different styles of patsa soup, or grilled squid, even live chickens are available for purhcase.

near Omonia Square

Travel a few minutes away from the city life and get to the suberb of Palio Faliro where you will find the Flisvos Marino, a great place to swim at the beach, walk amongst the luxury of yachtsm and check out the Averof battleship from the Balkan Wars in 1912-1913. The Balkan wars helped liberate Greece, and now this historic battleship is a museum definitely worth seeing.

Shop in the narrow streets of Athens where there is a huge selection of goods to choose from. Anything from classic records, unique jewelry, hand-made rugs, vintage furniture, musical instruments, books and much more. For more souvineers and things to take home, be sure to visit Monastiraki Square which is just across Avissynias Square. Also close by is Athinas Street where you can find great deals at cheap prices.

Avissynias Square