Athens

About

A Mediterranean Megalopolis, Greece’s Capital is one of the world’s oldest cities and a testament to the Ancient Greeks. Athens was idolized by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans alike; follow in their footsteps, into this labyrinth of charming streets, and it’s easy to see why the city is so revered. Pre-Christian monuments adorn the age-old streetscape. Starting in the heart of the city, you’ll find the Temple of Hephaestus and the Ancient Agora of Athens. Then pass Areopagus Hill and walk among the icons of the Acropolis and its crowning jewel, the Parthenon. Beyond them, a cluster of foregone deities are heralded in the Zappeion Garden, with Temples to Zeus, Apollo, and Kronos. Exploring this timeworn garden, you will pass landmarks like the Monument to the Unknown Soldier and the Kallimarmaro, a 4th-century B.C. stadium that hosted the first modern Olympics. The park ends on a street of museums, featuring the Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, and the Byzantine and Christian Museum. Close by is Plaka; a quaint, cobblestoned neighborhood, encrusted with beautiful boutiques, traditional cafés, and family-run tavernas. Finally, like the legends of Mount Olympus, gaze in the wonderment of Athens from atop Mount Lycabettus.