Most know this ancient citadel for the Parthenon, the most famous building on top of the high, rocky hilltop, but there are many other ancient remains waiting to be discovered. The Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the Propylaia are among the other famous buildings and temples that were erected as early as the 5th century BC, though there is sufficient evidence to suggest that the outcropping was inhabited in the 4th century BC. There is plenty of history, mystique, and wonder to go around once you reach the top. It will be the best thing you do in Athens, and it will not disappoint. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the city below with the Greek flag that flies at the top of the Acropolis in the foreground.

This is the most famous temple in the Acropolis. It was dedicated to the Greek goddess, Athena, a deity that the people of Athens revered as something akin to a saint. Her importance to the culture and religion is reflected in the detail and mightiness of the Parthenon temple. The building itself as well as the sculptures around it are considered some of the highest art in Greece.

When you’re traveling Greece, this is the museum to visit if you want to see the most important collection of ancient Greek art and the biggest archaeological museum in the country. Each of the displays has helpful and informative readings and information that explain their cultural and historical significance to Greece.

Work began on this masterpiece way before the 2nd century BC, but it was at this time that the final touches were finished. Throughout history it was used as a public, open space for hosting markets, political events and social events. Today, although it is visited mainly for tourist purposes, it still appears to have the same function with all of the people that come to gather and admire the history of the area.

Once you’ve descended from the magical experience of the Acropolis, continue down into the neighborhoods that sit beneath the famous outcropping, namely to the neighborhood called the Plaka. One of the best qualities of the Plaka is the fact that it is closed to traffic, so you’re free to walk around witihout the worry of oncoming cars. The Plaka is also the oldest section of Athens, full of colorful residential buildings, cafes and quaint tourist shops filled to the brim with irresistible jewelry and various Greek gifts. Be sure to eat something here before you go, as the food is as historical and authentically Greek as it gets.

Take the tram up or attempt the ascent to the highest point in Athens on foot, but either way make sure you go! When you get to the top, allow the swift winds to cool you as you survey the view that only Mount Lykavittos can provide. If you’re still looking for refreshment, there’s a café/restaurant at the top as well. The observation deck gives you an almost 360 degree view of Athens below, making for great picture-taking opportunities. Before you begin the walk or ride to the bottom be sure to take a look inside the small, white chapel of St. George.

Many go to Syntagma Square to see the House of Parliament building, where one can see members of the presidential guard dressed in their traditional garb, engaging in the hourly ceremony of the Changing of the Guard. They stand daily guarding the tomb of the Unknown Soldier out front. Here is also the beginning of Ermou Street, a famous shopping street in Athens. There are plenty of trees and resint areas that make a great place to people watch and relax before your next adventure.

The Acropolis Museum is a pristinely clean and shiny building which houses some of the most important Greek history in the country. The first exhibit visible to visitors has artifacts that were found in the sanctuaries around the Acropolis as well as objects that Athenians used in every day life. There is plenty to be learned about what we now know about Greek and Athenian history thanks to the excavations made over the years, the results of which are housed in the Acropolis Museum for your viewing pleasure.

If you’ve just come from the House of Parliament on Syntagma Square then you’re in great position to head straight to the National Garden of Athens. This impressive and gorgeous park was once the garden of the Royal Palace. Bird songs, flowers, and serenity await the visitors of the National Garden. It’s a perfect way to continue to see excellent Greek culture and learn of the history while simultaneously being able to partake in some much needed relaxation.

This Greco-Roman temple lies just southeast of the Acropolis, and with all of its grandeur is near impossible to miss on a walk around the downtown area of the city. At the time of its completion around 2 AD it was the largest temple in Greece. This is a great ruin to visit if you’re pressed for time, as it simply requires a walk past the site from the main street.