Athens is the largest city in Greece, with a population of around 4 million people, roughly 40% of Greece’s entire population. It is the Greek capital with a rich history spanning more than 3,000 years and is one of the most important economic and cultural centers of Southeast Europe. Athens is also the southernmost capital of Europe’s mainland, and in terms of its climate, it is the warmest European major city, enjoying over 300 days of sunshine each year!
Acropolis and the Museum
For more than 25 centuries Acropolis and the temple of Parthenon dominates the landscape of Attica land. The greatest symbol of the Athenian Golden Age and an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy and Western civilization. Even today, as you ascend the marble steps it still feels like a pilgrimage continuing for thousands of years. Complete the experience by visiting the new Acropolis Museum.
Ancient Agora
Experience the rich philosophical heritage of ancient Greece by walking the historic paths of the Agora of Athens, situated just northwest of the iconic Acropolis. This bustling civic center, which once served as a hub for commerce, assembly, and public gatherings, was a place where the great minds of Plato and Socrates shared their ideas and engaged in spirited debates. As you explore the Agora, you’ll encounter two remarkable structures from the ancient period that stand as enduring testaments to its former glory: the beautiful Temple of Hephaestus, a fine example of Classical architecture dedicated to the god of fire and craftsmanship, and the grand Stoa of Attalos, an impressive reconstruction from the Hellenistic period.
Plaka and Monastiraki Flea Market
Plaka is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in Athens, nestled right beneath the iconic Acropolis hill. This charming area is adorned with beautiful neoclassical buildings that reflect the city’s rich history. As you stroll through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing the essence of old Athens as it was in the previous century.
The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a myriad of cafés, taverns, and restaurants, where you can savor traditional Greek cuisine while enjoying a view of the ancient ruins. Not far from Plaka lies the bustling Monastiraki flea market, arguably one of the best spots for second-hand shopping in Athens.
Here, you can roam through a treasure trove of unique items, vintage clothing, and artisanal crafts. It’s the perfect destination to hunt for authentic Greek souvenirs to take back home. As you browse, immerse yourself in the lively ambiance, and don’t forget to haggle for a good deal! With its blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, Plaka and Monastiraki promise an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Temple of Poseidon, Sounion
At the southernmost tip of Attica’s peninsula, where the Greek landmass forms a dagger-like feature that meets the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the ancient Athenians built the Doric temple of Poseidon to honor the lord of the high seas.
The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, often associated with ancient Athens, was constructed in the mid‐5th century BC (around 444–440 BC) under the leadership of Pericles, replacing an earlier Archaic shrine dating to roughly 480 BC. Erected on a promontory overlooking the Aegean, its thirty‐four surviving Doric columns once formed part of a 6 × 13 colonnade, reflecting the height of Classical Greek architectural elegance. Dedicated to Poseidon as protector of seafarers, the temple served religious and navigational purposes: its white marble silhouette guided Athenian ships home.
Cape Sounion and the temple are about an hour’s drive from central Athens, depending on traffic. The best time to visit the temple and take in the mesmerizing landscape is during sunset.
People have populated the area around Athens since the prehistoric period, and the oldest known evidence of human presence dates back to the 11th millennium BC. Evidence suggests the city of Athens has been inhabited continuously for at least 5,000 years. By the 15th century BC, the settlement grew in size and became an important center of the Greek Mycenaean civilization. During the Bronze Age period, the Acropolis was heavily fortified with the characteristic Cyclopean megalithic walls, remains of which are still recognized even today.
By the 6th century BC, following widespread social unrest in the city, Solon introduced his radical reforms that eventually paved the way for the introduction of Athenian democracy by Cleisthenes in 508 BC. Athens, by that time, had developed a sizeable merchant and naval fleet, allowing the city to become a rising power in the region. In the Greco-Persian Wars that followed, Athens, together with Sparta, led the Greek alliance in the war against the Persians. After the Greek victory against the Persian invasion, Athens entered what is known today as the Golden Age of Athenian democracy, laying the foundations for Western civilization.
Athens continued to thrive even after the Roman conquest but by late antiquity following a wave of successive sacks, the city suffered massive destruction and declined. During that period, the first Christian churches were built and the Parthenon was converted into a church dedicated to Virgin Mary. In the Middle Ages and the Byzantine period, Athens was relatively prosperous and the settlement expanded. In 1458, the city was conquered by the Ottomans and entered a long period of decline.
After the Greek War of Independence and the establishment of the Modern Greek state, Athens had only a small population of 4,000 people leaving along the foothills of Acropolis. In 1834, the city was chosen mainly for historical reasons to become the modern capital of Greece.
Yes, a day trip to Meteora from Athens is possible. However, due to the travel distance and the depth of experiences Meteora offers, we strongly recommend booking a multi-day tour. This allows for a more relaxed itinerary and deeper exploration of the monasteries and surrounding landscapes.
In the past, train tours offered a scenic and comfortable journey to Kalambaka, where our local guide would meet you. However, due to current disruptions in the train connection, this option is no longer reliable or pleasant.
We now recommend choosing private bus or minivan tours, which provide a smoother, more flexible experience. These are ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want to travel at their own pace.
Hotel transfers in Athens are available upon request. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or Airbnb, we can arrange pick-up and drop-off for any of our private tours or transfers upon request.
Absolutely. We offer 2-day and 3-day combined packages that include both Meteora and Delphi, with overnight stays, cultural tours, and transport all included. These are ideal for travelers who want to explore Greece beyond Athens.
Driving time is approximately 4 to 4.5 hours each way. Our private transfers include breaks along the way, with optional scenic stops, and are operated by English-speaking professional drivers.
Book your 2026 trip to Meteora today and enjoy up to 10% off our award-winning tours and stays. Lock in your preferred dates before they sell out — early birds always fly higher!
Use code EARLYBIRD26 at checkout 
Offer Conditions:
Valid on selected tours, trips, and activities scheduled to depart between 1 January 2026 and 31 December 2026. The offer does not apply to bookings with start dates from 1 April 2026 to 12 April 2026. Availability is limited and subject to change without notice.