Pericles' Acropolis dominates the city from its 156 metres. At the foot of the rock, the Monastiraki district with its bazaar and the rooftop bars overlooking the Parthenon make Athens an unmissable destination.
Athens: where history can be touched
Athens is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western world. Walking through the lanes of Plaka - the medieval district beneath the Acropolis - means crossing 3,000 years of history in a few blocks.
The Acropolis
The Parthenon (447-432 BC) is the absolute symbol of classical Greek civilisation. The view from the Acropolis over modern Athens, with the mountains of Attica in the background, is one of the most moving in the world.
The combined ticket (30 euro in high season) includes the Acropolis, the Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, the Olympieion and other sites. Valid for 5 days. Visit at opening (8:00) to avoid the heat and the crowds.
The rooftop bars with a view of the Parthenon
The rooftop bars of Monastiraki and Plaka offer direct views of the illuminated Acropolis. A360 Bar, Couleur Locale and Galaxy Bar are among the best. A cocktail (12-15 euro) is worth the panorama.
The souvlaki of Monastiraki
Monastiraki is the street food of Athens: pork, chicken or lamb souvlaki in pita with tzatziki, tomato and onion. The cost: 2-3 euro a piece. Thanasis and Bairaktaris are the two historic institutions facing the square.