Athens
Greece
Backpacking Athens
Information on Athens, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Athens is a popular backpacker destination due to its warm weather, many historical sights and access to the Greek Islands. Thanks to its affordability and impressive history you will find many travelers exploring their way throughout the city year round. It is the world’s ancient capital and a top sightseeing spot for ancient Greek monuments. Today, the city of Athens remains the center and capital of Modern Greece. Built in the 5th-century BC, the hilltop Acropolis and citadel, ancient temples, and monumental buildings have represented Greece’s culture and rich history. Nowadays the capital has become into a worthwhile backpacking stop because of its people, International scene and being both a modern metropolis and ancient open-air museum. Being on the coast means on those sweltering days, you can pop over to the Saronic Gulf Islands for a day trip. For any backpacker who wants to explore Greek culture, nightlife, and food scene, for an affordable price, then Athens is for you.
Must See
Visit the Acropolis - The Acropolis, visible from almost every part of the city, is an ancient citadel overlooking Athens. The temple city was built in the 5th century BC and includes the Propylaea, the temple to Athena, and the famous Parthenon.
Visit the Parthenon - The Parthenon is a sight to see and really highlights the full glory of the Greek Empire. The Parthenon is encircled by the Acropolis and is made entirely of marble.
Visit the Temple of Olympic Zeus - The Temple of Olympic Zeus took 700 years to build and although not much of the temple is left, the sheer size of the columns that still stand is impressive.
Must Do
Visit the National Archaeological Museum - The museum has one of the most extensive collections of ancient Greek sculpture, jewelry, and pottery in the world.
Hike to the Top of Lycabettus - For a great view of the city in the evening, hike up to the peak of this hill. The path starts at the end of Aristippou Street and you can take a return trip on the funicular.
Food Tour - If you are a fan of Greek food then we highly recommend trying as much of the street food as possible!
Nightlife
Athens is one of the best places to party in Greece, despite the popularity of the Greek Islands. Athenians love to have a good time, and the party goes into the morning here. Club-hoppers should hit up the areas of Gazi and Monastiraki, where you’ll find huge venues hosting international DJs and the streets packed with partiers. If you’re into trendy bars, the neighborhood of Exarchia is a cool hot spot with a wide variety of small bars and food scene. Koukaki is where you’ll find live music venues and chill bars frequented by young locals.
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