Athens is arguably one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. The Greek capital is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene beaches and finger-licking cuisines. It is a spectacular city with a fusion of both ancient Greek history and modern attractions to suit the varying needs of different tourists.
If you are considering visiting Athens, there are a few things you might want to know that could enhance your overall stay in the city. In today’s piece, we will focus on a few of these things, including finding accommodation and top attractions to visit while touring the capital.
Where to Stay in Athens
When going on a holiday, one of the most important things to plan ahead is accommodation. No one wants the struggles of trying to find a place to retire for the night, especially after a long, tiring day of travelling. Ideally, you would want to book accommodation before leaving home so that everything is set when you arrive.
Lucky for you, Athens is a popular tourist destination, and that means plenty of amazing areas to stay when visiting. Of course, your preferred location will depend on areas you want to explore and things you would love to see. Being close to your favourite attraction sites not only reduces travel time but also saves money on transport costs. Some popular neighbourhoods in the city include Syntagma, Plaka, Kolonaki, Monastiraki and Ampelokipoi.
When it comes to holiday accommodation in Athens, there are plenty of choices to choose from depending on personal preference. For instance, if you are seeking a homey and authentic experience, holiday rental apartments in Athens might be an excellent choice. These holiday homes offer comfort and convenience, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying your holiday trip.
How to Choose the Perfect Holiday Home in Athens
With so many options, choosing the perfect holiday accommodation can be very frustrating. You will need to take your time and analyse each home to find one that is right for you. Here are a few things to consider:
Location
Before looking at anything else, it is essential to first consider the location of your accommodation. Ideally, you need to find a home close to areas you will likely visit during your tour. For instance, if you would love to tour the Benaki Museum, getting accommodation in Kolonaki might be a good idea. Similarly, if you enjoy a bit of nightlife, holiday accommodation at Psiri might suit you better.
Amenities
Once you are settled on the location, the next thing to consider is the amenities and features you will need. These could include essentials like parking and Wi-Fi to more luxurious options like a gym and swimming pool. Having the desired amenities in your hotel or apartment helps avoid many inconveniences.
Budget
Having a budget when choosing holiday accommodation in Athens is also important. In most cases, accommodation often takes a bigger chunk of your holiday budget. That said, you need to ensure it is not expensive to the extent that it eats into your budget for activities. Shop around the area for the best deals and ensure there are no hidden charges.
Top Attraction Sites in Athens
The Acropolis Hill
The Acropolis Hill is a must-see attraction site in Athens. It is located in the middle of the city and is visible from almost all the neighbourhoods, thanks to its impressive height of 156 metres. While touring the hill, there are a few other places to explore besides the beautiful view of the city’s famous neighbourhoods. These include the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum.
Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. On the other hand, the Acropolis Museum is home to various finds excavated at the hill alongside the history of the area.
Ancient Agora
Another place you should consider visiting when touring Athens is the Ancient Agora. You can even combine the trips on the same day with visiting Acropolis because the two destinations are very close. Ancient Agora used to be the city’s centre, which means all the important buildings, including places of worship and markets, were in the area.
A good example of buildings that stand to date is the Temple of Hephaistos, which is a great place to explore the religious practices and architectural ingenuity of ancient Greek people.
Syntagma Square
If you have been researching locations to visit in Athens, there is a great chance you have come across a suggestion to explore Syntagma Square. It is a slightly less touristy part of Athens, but still a perfect location to learn something interesting about the city and its people. For starters, the square was one of the most common meeting places for people who lived in the city.
At the location, you can explore the Hellenic Parliament, housed in the former Royal Palace of Athens. You can also witness the change of guards (a ritual where military units exchange guards every hour) who stand perfectly still in front of the parliament.
Conclusion
Athens is a population holiday location with a combination of historic charm and vibrant modern culture. Whether you are interested in trying out art, food or the nightlife, the city has got something to offer. However, ensure you find the right accommodation close to the sites you want to explore. Book your holiday apartment or hotel beforehand to avoid last-minute rush and other inconveniences.
Image: Adobe Stock – moofushi
