A Guide Around the Historical Centre of Athens

One of the oldest cities on Earth embraces the present at every turn and is a modern metropolis pulsating with life

Athens is slowly getting the recognition it deserves as a hot spot for tourism, as many videos are popping up on social media platforms presenting the unique beauties of one of the oldest cities in the world. Visitors are quite literally immersed in its ancient history. Walking in its streets they might well stumble across impressive columns standing for millennia while turning the next corner they could experience priceless artifacts, dating as far back as the Mycenaean period and Bronze Age Greece, showcased in one of the many museums.

One of the most appealing neighborhoods many tourists flock to is the Historical Centre of the Greek capital. Here is a guide to get the most out of your stay in Athens. Where to go and what to see:

Anafiotika: The small historic quarter with its narrow alleys is perched on the northeast side of the Acropolis, connected to Plaka. It owes its name to the traditional stonemasons who came from the island of Anafi in 1830 and stayed in this neighbourhood when they were working on the palace of Otto (now the Parliament). Walking through the alleyways with whitewashed houses, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a Cycladic island.

Plaka: Although always busy with sightseers, the old and stately neighbourhood still has several sophisticated cafes, bistros, and restaurants among the more touristy ones. Plaka is home to the monument of Lysicrates, the Roman Forum, the Bath of the Aeres, the Library of Hadrian, and old churches such as that of Agios Nikolaos Ragavas.

source travel.gr