YOUR GUIDE TO ATHENS, GREECE
GENERALLY CONSIDERED TO BE THE BIRTHPLACE OF WESTERN CIVILISATION, the capital of Greece features an exciting fusion of ancient history, iconic ruins, creative energy, intriguing mythology and delicious cuisine — and that’s just the beginning. Athens is home to landmarks that are centuries old, if not millennia, so visitors can expect to learn something new at every turn.
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
THE ACROPOLIS OF ATHENS: An ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above Athens which contains the remains of several buildings of great architectural and historic significance. This UNESCO site offers spectacular views of the city.
THE PARTHENON: Dominating the hill of the Athenian Acropolis, the Parthenon is an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Completed in 438 BC, it is considered one of the world’s greatest cultural monuments.
THE NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM: Home to some of the greatest collections of antiquities in the world, including the treasures of the royal tombs of Mycenae, the Linear B tablets and the enigmatic Cycladic marble figurines.
ATHENS CENTRAL MARKET: Known to locals as Varvakios, the market was built in 1886. Here, you will find stalls displaying fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, nuts and spices. There are also several small tavernas serving up local delicacies.
THE PLAKA DISTRICT: This historic neighbourhood has a Greek island feel to it — think narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint, family owned eateries and tiny shops selling jewellery and local crafts.
EXPLORE ATHENS ON THESE VIKING ITINERARIES
OCEAN GREEK ODYSSEY — 11 Days | Athens to Athens
OCEAN ANCIENT ADRIATIC TREASURES — 15 Days | Venice to Istanbul or v.v.
OCEAN MEDITERRANEAN & ADRIATIC SOJOURN — 22 Days | Athens to Barcelona or v.v.
OCEAN MEDITERRANEAN’S ICONIC SHORES — 29 Days | Barcelona to Istanbul or v.v.