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May 4, 2007updated Dec 07, 2015

What to Do in Athens During the Day

By Chris Boyle

Syntagma Square

Athens is a truly diverse city, rich in culture, art and history. Whether you prefer to spend your days browsing galleries, basking in the sun or haggling with market stall owners, Athens has everything an elite traveler could desire.

THE PARTHENON AND THE NEW ACROPOLIS MUSEUM

The New Acropolis Museum

Dominating the Athenian skyline, The Acropolis is the pride of Athens. Perched at its summit is the magnificent Parthenon, the enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy and one of the world’s most recognizable cultural monuments.

Work began on this iconic building in 447BC and took 15 years to complete. It has withstood invasions, earthquakes and mortar attacks, and today serves as a reminder of what humans can achieve. Before embarking on the climb up The Acropolis, “the Sacred Hill,” it is essential to visit the New Acropolis Museum. This beautifully constructed modern museum was opened in 2007 and since then has continued to awe visitors with its spectacular displays of artifacts from The Parthenon and Ancient Greece. This venue is the perfect aperitif to the magnificent Parthenon main course.

NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

National Archaeological Museum

 Completed in 1889, the National Archaeological Museum is an imposing and iconic construction.

Its design is neoclassical and reflects the classical pieces which it houses. The museum is considered one of the greatest in the world, and contains the richest collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity. The vast exhibition space accounts for 86,000 square feet over five floors, containing five permanent displays and numerous temporary exhibitions. Among its permanent exhibitions is the Prehistoric Collection, which includes works of the great civilizations from the sixth millennium BC through to 1050BC. The museum is a cultural experience not to be missed.

+30 210 821 7724

44 Patission Street, 10682

www.namuseum.gr

SYNTAGMA SQUARE

Syntagma Square

The most famous square in Greece is at the heart of Athens, and with links to the most popular Athenian sites, Syntagma Square is the ideal starting point for any day.

The square has been the center point for all major events in modern Greece; it has witnessed a German invasion and the toppling of a monarchy, and is now home to the Greek Parliament. However, Syntagma Square is more than just a starting point and has a wealth of attractions to offer. The Parliamentary guards change every hour and the Square holds the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and countless coffee shops and bars, where you can sit and watch Athens pass you by. The Square is also home to some of the finest hotels in Athens and a number of spectacular roof top bars. With fantastic links to the shopping district and the National Park, Syntagma Square is on every Athens to-do list.

Leoforos Vasilissis Amalias, 10557

THE NATIONAL GARDEN

The National Garden

Located close to Syntagma Square, the National Garden is a 15.5 hectare oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Athens city center.

Commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1888, German agronomist Frederick Schmidt imported over 500 species of plants and animals to transform the central Athens area. Formerly the garden was known as the Kings Royal Garden; however, since the dissolution of the Greek monarchy its name was changed to the National Garden. The surrounding area is now completely free of traffic, and the park itself plays host to ducks, birds and turtles. It is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, a quiet lunch or a well earned glass of cold ouzo.

+30 210 721 5019

Leoforos Vasilissis Sofias, 10557

THE AGORA

The Agora view

The Agora, which is the focal point of Ancient Athens, is where the Athenian elite would gather to discuss politics, shop and socialize.

The Agora became so important to Athens that it is branded on the Greek language; the word “agora” is the etymological base for the verbs, “I shop” and “I speak in public.” Despite resting in the shadow of The Acropolis, the importance of this wonderful site should not be underestimated, for on this very plane modern democracy came to life. This was also the site of the dreaded ostracism vote, which could banish a citizen from the city for ten years. The Agora, which is home to the Temple of Hephaestus, The Altar of the Twelve Gods, Stoa Basileios and Apollo Patroos, remains the best example of an ancient Greek agora and a brilliant insight into ancient politics.

+30 210 331 0963

24 Adrianou, Monastiraki, 18540

ZULUBUNGY

Leaping into the Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is one of the true wonders of the modern world, with a history that stretches over 3,000 years.

Set in this prestigious location, Zulubungy offers a once in a lifetime opportunity for the adventurous elite traveler. Originally conceived in 603BC, many of Europe’s most famous leaders have attempted to excavate the canal. In 66AD, with the help of 6000 slaves, Emperor Nero made the most famous attempt, but failed when unrest in Rome forced him to return. Eventually it was opened 1893, 2,495 years later. Zulubungy, a highly professional organization, has operated at this spectacular spot for ten years, safely bringing the thrill and adrenaline of bungee jumping to thousands of people. Past thrill seekers include: Rally World Champion Sebastian Loeb, US television presenter Phil Keoghan and Brazilian TV star Daniela Monteiro.

Andy Kokkinis, Jumpmaster

+30 274 104 9465

www.zulubungy.com

 

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