Historic Centre

Discover the historic areas of Plaka, Monastiraki, Theseion, Psyrri and Gazi

What better way to start your Athens adventure than the world famous Acropolis. The crown jewel of Greece, this breath-taking display of marble masterpieces of Athens' 'Sacred Rock' was built during the late 5th century BC during the reign of Perikles, the Golden Age of Athens. Aside from dominating the Plaka landscape, the Acropolis is considered one of the most important monuments in the Western world. The Parthenon, the epitome of ancient Greek Classical art is an astonishing temple built to honour goddess Athena, the city's patron.

The The New Acropolis Museum, which officially opened in 2009, is a magnificent and extremely important building. The big glass walls allow a direct view of the Acropolis temples from within the museum, while the glass floor offers a view over the ruins of an early Christian settlement. All the Greek antiquities found here are gloriously displayed, and the museum has also successfully sent an important international message and answered previous criticism that Athens did not have the capacity to sufficiently and safely exhibit the stolen marbles currently displayed at the British Museum in London. Despite the empty showcase, the Greek government, people and supporters worldwide strongly anticipate the fair return of the marbles by Britain.

Plaka, also known as the 'neighbourhood of the gods', is the oldest and most charming neighbourhood of Athens. Stroll around the winding medieval alleys of Plaka and you will discover places of untouched delight, or explore the Acropolis before heading down to the The Herodes Atticus Theatre. There is also the beautiful pedestrian Pikionis Road, leading further up to the pine-covered slopes of the Filopappou Hill and its monuments marking centuries of history. Known as 'the hill of muses' in antiquity, the hilltop is distinguished by sweeping views overlooking the Acropolis and all of southern Athens stretching to the sea. The working-class areas of Makrigianni and Koukaki are shaking off their old image and now boast must-see museums, good restaurants and ultra-hip clubs.

If after a while - among bougainvillea’s and the olive and pine trees - you want to return to the hustle and bustle of life, Monastiraki is found nearby, where you can find the church of the Dormition of the Virgin or wander around the narrow streets and markets and shops selling souvenirs and antiques. On Sunday mornings, Plateia Avissynias comes alive with Athens' biggest and most colourful flea market; you will be surprised by the variety and quality of things you can buy.

Why not re-live history and discover the classical monuments of the city, including the 6th-century Agora and its museum housed in the Stoa of Attalos. The Agora is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in Greece; as the heart of ancient Athens, it was the main site of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, the religious and cultural centre, and the seat of justice. This is where Socrates addressed his public, where democracy was born and where St Paul preached. Not far away you see the Roman Forum and the Tower of the Winds and the Hadrian's library.

Walk down the big pedestrian road towards Theseion, named after the ancient temple in the Agora, and you will find the Temple of Hephaistos, the city's best preserved temple of antiquity and built in 460-415 BC. The Theseion area is a lively place, a fun area with great tavernas and cafes; it is a real treat to enjoy your coffee right next to history. Psyrri, similarly to Theseion, is a colourful neoclassical Athens neighbourhood, a busy area especially in the evening. It is impossible not to find the tavernas that you will love, with live Greek music and decent meze food, ouzeries, cafes, clubs, theatres, galleries and antique shops.

Walk down the big pedestrian road towards Theseion, named after the ancient temple in the Agora, and you will find the temple of Hephaistos, the city's best preserved temple of antiquity and built in 460-415 BC. The Theseion area is a lively place, a fun area with great tavernas and cafes; it is a real treat to enjoy your coffee right next to history. Psyrri, similarly to Theseion, is a colourful neoclassical Athens neighbourhood, a busy area especially in the evening. It is impossible not to find the tavernas that you will love, with live Greek music and decent meze food, ouzeries, cafes, clubs, theatres, galleries and antique shops.