The cradle of Western civilisation; the birthplace of democracy, poetry, philosophy, arts and crafts; it’s a destination that never fails to impress

 

 

As Greece suffers some of the toughest economic challenges in its modern history, you could be forgiven for believing the eurozone debt-crisis has brought business in the southern European nation to an end.

 

Yet for the inhabitants of its capital city, Athens, life continues and goes on, as it has done so, for more than 7,000 years.

 

One of the oldest and most historical cities in the world, Athens has developed into a sprawling modern metropolis, barely recognisable from the golden age of the Athenian city-state which was home to artists, scholars and philosophers like Plato, Aristotle and Socrates.

 

Reminders of a glorious past lay in the numerous monuments which dot the verdant rolling hills that surround the city. From its earliest days as the birthplace of democracy, Athens has evolved into a sophisticated and cosmopolitan destination for lovers of ancient ruins, restaurants, shops and revamped hotels.

 

Though economists continue to argue over the long-term financial consequences of Athens’ hosting of the 2004 Olympiad, there can be no doubt the extensive regeneration and gentrification which took place prior to the games has made a dramatic impact in the city’s cultural and social life; new art and leisure districts now compliment one of most lively and vibrant nightlife scenes you will find in any European capital.

 

So whether you want to dance till dawn, shop ‘till you drop, or ruminate over ruins and relics, Athens has a little something for everyone.

See the sights

The Greek capital is regarded by many tourists as the gateway to some of the country’s most beautiful islands, but finding just enough time to climb atop of the Acropolis hill, before boarding a boat to some of the Aegean Sea’s 1,400 plus delights, simply doesn’t do Athens justice.

 

The best way to explore the historical sights is by foot. And kitted out with a good pair of comfortable walking shoes, the Athens Walking Tours (www.athenswalkingtours.gr) provide a terrific service, offering fascinating insights, with tailored tours for all ages, interests and fitness levels.

 

Undoubtedly, the first stop of any tour of Athens must be at the Acropolis. The high rocky citadel dominates the city, sitting some 70 metres above it, and is home to some of the most important archaeological ruins in the world.

 

Atop the Acropolis sits the Parthenon. Arguabaly the true icon of Athens, this buiding was used as a temple to the Goddess Athena – the protector of the city. Almost 2,500 years old, the edifice and its decorative columns and stonework are considered the high point of Greek art of that period.

 

The Acropolis also is home to numerous other ruins and buildings including the Theatre of Dionysus and on the hill’s southside lies the partially-reconstructed Odeon of Herdotus Atticus which still hosts a number of performances during the year. As part of the Athens Festival held from June to September of every year, visitors can enjoy a wonderful night’s entertainment by catching an ancient Greek drama on stage, or choose from one of the many world-famous artists who come and perform at the old stone Amphitheater.

 

The city also boasts almost 50 museums but two in particular, can honestly be decribed as ‘must-sees’: the Acropolis Archaeological Museum with its transparent glass floor allows the visitor to see an extensive archaeological site beneath, while a short two-kilometre jump north, the National Archaeological Museum houses the world’s greatest and most important collection of ancient Greek art.

Elsewhere in Athens

The Plaka is where you will find a large number of cafés, bars, restaurants, boutiques and tourists. Gazi and Monastiraki are charming neighbourhoods with plenty of little shops to draw you in. Fans of hiking and fine views can make their way up Lycabettus Hill.

 

Aspiring Olympians and fans of the Games can visit the old Olympic Stadium, near Syntagma square. This is where the 1896 games were staged, and where the marathon and several other events took place in 2004. Finally, to take a break from the noise and activity of this busy city, spend some time inside the grounds of the impressive 150,000 square metre refuge that is the National Gardens, just beside the stadium. This public park is right in the centre of the city and was once the grounds of the 19th century royal palace. It houses ancient ruins, mosaics and Corinthian-period art.

Tristan Mulhall