Page 68 - ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL 2023

ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL
culture

V pink and red, and you’ll also get a chance to visit the Greek Orthodox

isiting Athens in a flash? Here are some of the best ways to ex-
perience the capital of Greece this summer.
great rooftop bars can be found all over the city – and they are great for
wander the streets of monastiraki and plaka church of Agios Georgios (St. George). Keep in mind that a number of
watching the sunset too!
Head straight to the very heart of the city. Much of the action is right
behind the Monastiraki metro station. Expect live music and dancing in the past and the present of art
the streets in the afternoons. Every day, Monastiraki is a market area full The iconic Acropolis Museum remains a captivating journey through
of small shops selling antiques, art and records. Cross Ermou Street to time. Conceived as a living, breathing museum, not only does it house
find the picturesque Psiri, a neighbourhood full of cafeterias, bars and some of the most impressive finds from Ancient Athens and Greece but
tavernas. For a dose of tranquillity, head to Plaka, on the other side. In it interacts with its surroundings, inviting visitors to engage, experience
its narrow cobblestone streets stand beautiful listed buildings, and there and feel. The views of the Acropolis are breathtaking, while you’ll be
are endless alleyways to explore. enjoying glimpses into the excavations that unearthed these treasures
through glass floors.
discover the acropolis and athens from above
A favourite Acropolis spot is right next to flag, on the northeast corner, visit the stavros niarchos foundation cultural
with views of Athens stretching out below. One can see the ceramic tiled centre
roofs of the houses in the Plaka area, Hadrian’s Arch and the giant Temple If you are looking for proof that Greece is still very much a hub for arts,
of Olympian Zeus – as well as Zappeion, the National Garden and the culture and innovation in Europe, give this place a visit. Designed by
First Cemetery of Athens. Make sure you take in this bird’s eye view of world-renowned architect Renzo Piano, the SNFCC houses both the Na-
the historic Greek capital and marvel at all the monuments you can see tional Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. But there’s also
from this spot. Is it too hot to visit the Acropolis? In Athens, that can the 210,000 m2 Stavros Niarchos Park, a modern landscape architecture
certainly happen… So just head to the best spots to see it from afar. No project that has been designed with sustainability and nature in mind. It
matter where you are in Plaka, you are no more than a short walk away, is a welcoming open space of typical Mediterranean character. The guided
and you can play hide and seek with this wonder of the ancient world tour will let you in on this park’s secrets and wonders – keep in mind that
behind the buildings. Alternatively, head to Lycabettus Hill to enjoy it will take you up and down some steps, too. At the very end of the walk,
stunning sunset views of both Athens and Piraeus. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the Bay of Phaliron and the city
you’ll watch the sun dive into the sea in an explosion of warm orange, of Athens including the Parthenon and Lycabettus Hill. 

The SNFCC is

a public space,

where everyone
has free access

and can participate

in a multitude

of cultural,
educational,

athletic,

environmental

and recreational THE HIGHEST
activities and POINT OF ATHENS
Lycabettus hilI stands in the
events. YIORGIS YEROLYMBOS Hall of Fame of Athenian
hotspots. Besides being
a significant city site, it is
also an exceptional point to
enjoy the spectacular view
of the Greek capital.
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