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Welcome to the birthplace of modern civilization and the beginning of the creation of the west. Athens is where it all started; the start of democracy and democratic ruling. The capital of Greece and a major metropolitan with 3.7 million citizens, this city has a lot to offer to any college student coming to visit. The ancient architecture and ruins date back to 1000 B.C.. No where else in the world will you find such a visually stimulating skyline in a city. There is a lot more than meets the eye with Athens and it will take coming to visit to learn all the mysteries and secret places to go. Whether on spring break or taking a weekend trip while studying abroad, Athens is the perfect city to visit. You will be very disappointed if you don’t get a chance to come.

Athens Pictures

Things to do in Athens

Ancient ruins, temples and architecture is the main reason most people come to Athens. The acropolis is the main thrill and is noticeable from most locations in the city. It is the oldest standing building in the city and is absolutely amazing. You truly have to be here to experience it. Take a tour or audio guide and learn a thing or two about ancient life in the city. The Temple of Olympian Zeus, Ancient Agora, Kerameikos, and Syntagma Square, where the Parliament resides, are all located in Athens. Take a walk around the city to get the full feeling of how incredible all the ancient ruins are. In 2004 Athens hosted the summer Olympics and is a great site to see. Take in the buildings and fields. Pretend like you were there and see some of the paraphernalia that is still there.

Nightlife in Athens

Athens is a traditional Mediterranean city in that dinner is served later and goes for a long time. Like many other countries in Europe dinner usually does not start until 8:00pm. It can then go for up to three hours. Multiple courses and fabulous Greek dessert are a must when visiting Athens. If you are looking for something more, check out the clubs and bars in this city. You might consider taking a small break in between dinner and going out, since clubs don’t really get going until after midnight. The coastal zone of the city becomes the club zone at night, especially on weekends. This is where college students can be found any night of the week dancing or grabbing a beer in a bar. The weekends are of course more busy and will also include lines at some places. Be sure to try a frappé. It’s a really yummy drink served in Greece with cold coffee and baileys. Greek wine is also delicious and can be purchased in most bars.

Dining in Athens

There are certain specific dishes that are authentically Greek. Souvlaki’ is a grilled meat and vegetable dish. Lamb and pork and chicken are typical meats in this dish. Tzatziki’ is a Greek yogurt dish with dill and cucumbers. This side dish is served with most meals, especially dinner and lunch. Bread, usually pita bread is served as a side and accompanies any good meal. You can also find Greek olives and chick peas (hummus) at most places. Tabule is not served everywhere, but is a great lunch item. There are some places that are cheaper than others. Obviously around the main sites and acropolis food is more expensive. If you want the true authentic Greek dining experience venture out to the neighborhoods and get a real Greek meal.

Shopping in Athens

Athens is not known for its shopping. In fact there are really no malls or shopping outlets. This is a common trend in Mediterranean Europe. There are some smaller shops here and there with souvenier items and essentials. The best bet is to over pack before going. If you are looking for the typical tourist items like shot glasses, magnets, scarves, flags, and mugs you will be overwhelmed with the selection. Near any tourist hot spot there will be carts set up and small shops around the corner. So don’t worry about trying to find something to bring home to Mom.

Athens travel tips

• There are many different dialects of Greek, although many people in Athens speak English.
• It is considered disrespectful to show bare shoulders or mid drifts in churches.
• The time zone in Athens is EET/EEST.