First Trip to Athens Greece
As one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens has been the inspiration of many works of art, movies, and novels. With approximately 3400 years’ worth of recorded history, Athens has seen a great deal of human development over several millennia. The city itself contains a culture rich people with a population of over 660,000.
Athens is home to some of the oldest surviving constructs in the world, which is fitting as it is one of the world’s oldest cities. The Parthenon is a testament to Ancient Greek construction as it has withstood various battles and approximately 2500 years of time. Although the surrounding ruins are magnificent in their own rights, few ancient buildings are more recognized than the Parthenon itself.
Steeped in tradition and history Athens in Greece is one of the best places to visit to get a first hand of how the old world lived. Whether you’re a budget traveler or on a tour or on a vacation on your own there is something for everyone. There are tour operators who can show you all the attractions in and around Athens to your satisfaction. You can also plan a sightseeing tour based on the information given below. Here are five must-see sites for beginners who are on the first trip to Greece.
Delphi
The classic Greek world revolved around Delphi which is one of the famous sites in Greece. Delphi’s theater, the temple of Apollo and ancient ruins, the unique bronze charioteer are all sights to see on your trip to Athens. The drive towards Delphi is scenic through Levadia and Arachova (famous for Greek carpets). The archeological treasures of Greece deport you back to the historical era when Europe was the only happening place in the world. Greece was the center of the universe and there was no other country as popular and vibrant as Greece. This is one of the five must-see sites for beginners visiting Athens.
Take a Cruise to Grecian Islands
Hydra, Poros, and Egina are three popular islands near Athens where you can relax by the sea. Surfing and other water sports are available here. If you wish to just idle on the beach relaxing this is the best place to do so.
Founders Memorial Garden Complex
A living memorial to America’s first Garden Club, memorial garden complex was founded in Athens in 1930. Winding pathways, lilting sound of the fountains, lighting, blooming flora and lush green fauna, shrubbery and rare flower species are a must-see in the memorial garden complex. Entry to this garden is free. It is well maintained and a visit to the Acropolis by sunset is a sight worth viewing. Don’t miss it.
Meteora
The awe-inspiring cliff-top monasteries of Meteora are a sight to watch. The travel from Plain of Thessaly to Kalambaka is one of the most scenic locales in Greece. The towers of the monasteries are made of sandstone and are centuries old. The inaccessibility to tourists till recently gave the monks privacy to meditate in solitude.
Church in Albany
Besides the monasteries, the Church in Albany is famous for its age-old architecture and design. It’s a must-see on your visit to Athens.
Santorini
Okay, so perhaps this one is not Athens (had to see if you were paying attention), but the beautiful white-colored Santorini should definitely be on your to-do list for Greece. This former volcanic island boasts of red, white, and black beaches. You should spend the night on the island to drink in the beauty of the place by night light.
There are many more interesting sights to see among the five top sights to see for beginners in Athens.
Affordable Family-friendly Lodging
Art Suites
The Hotel Art Suites is a fine location that is family friendly with affordable rates. For example, a family of two adults and three children can stay within a spacious condo-like establishment for four nights for less than $700. The hotel features a swimming pool, family room, wireless Internet, and is a short distance from the Megaron Mousikis Metro Station in order to facilitate your exploration of the great city.
Philippos Hotel
The elegance of the Philippos Hotel puts the family sitting right next to the Acropolis Museum. Located in an ideal location to explore the culture of Athens, yourself and the family can visit a wide variety of museums covering nearly every aspect of the city’s heritage from art to jewelry. This hotel also features tour reservations of the large and entrancing city.
Athens Atrium Hotel & Jacuzzi Suites
This majestic location is high in class and provides family discounts for you and your loved ones. The rooms are spacious and lathered in a luxurious presence that will make the stay of your family a memorable one. The natural lighting of the restaurant is pleasant on the eyes and ice cream is served all day long.
Tours of Athens, Greece
Many young persons and family guided tours are offered by those who have lived in the wonderful city of Athens their entire life. Instead of a scripted tour that is more akin to an acting position, these people offer their knowledge to guide you and your family across some of the most amazing sites in the city. Explore the city as an Athenian and marvel at its glory.
Wide Variety of Tours
Whether you are walking, riding, busing, or being delivered in a limo with first class service and detailed knowledge, there is an abundant supply of family-friendly tours and locations that can keep you from wanting to go home. As the city of Athens is vast, being able to visit all of the attractions in their entirety may not be possible in a short trip. By booking a tour from the more versed guides, you can feel that you are immersed within history itself.
Rich with history and life, Athens is a wonderment of human ingenuity that has spanned across many centuries. Filled with explorable ruins and ripe with recorded history, the experience can rank alongside with some of the most memorable times within your family’s life. Visit Athens and witness for yourself just how construction methods can be delivered to withstand the ravages of time.