Exploring Athens, Greece in 2020

Deemed the “birthplace of Western Civilization” some 2400 years after its hey-day origins, Athens, Greece remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world — and for good reason. While gone are the days of Olympic chariot races and free-for-all public bathhouses, visiting Athens in 2020 is the perfectly-blended time warp of historical and modern. Not unlike Zeus’ famed bolt of lightning, adventure is waiting to strike; check out a few of the must-try ideas below, and we guarantee you’ll be speeding to book your plane ticket faster than Hermes can fly.

1. Explore the Acropolis

The most famous site in all of Athens, and arguably, one of the most famous remaining pieces of ancient architecture in the world, the spectacular Acropolis stands erected on a large hill in the middle of the city. It can get very crowded, which is why it is best to go in the off season. While breathtaking views are guaranteed when exploring the grounds on your own, visiting these historic ruins is made all the more memorable when narrated by a###a href="https://archaeology-travel.com/gr-articles/best-walking-tours-acropolis-athens/"> guide who can walk you through the history and mythology contained within the revered relics.

2. Tour the Parthenon

Next up on the list of historical must-sees is the world-renowned Parthenon. Erected in 447 BC in dedication to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon remains heralded today has a stunning piece of architecture and symbol of democracy. It’s so well known that a full-scale replica was built in 1897 for the Centennial Exposition in Tennessee. Although it was built as a temporary attraction, the building still stands today in Nashville.

3. Take a Greek Cooking Class

Get acquainted with the wonderfully fragrant world of Mediterranean cuisine and eat like the locals by trying your hand at a Greek cooking class. With the recipes for tangy dolmadakia and savory tzatziki under belt, authentic Greek flavor will be within your reach even once you’ve returned from your trip.

4. Visit a Greek Bakery

Not so confident that cooking is your thing? No worries. The myriad of casual street stalls and fine dining establishments have you got covered, just ensure that one (or two, or three) of your stops includes a Greek bakery. Nothing beats a hearty spinach and feta-stuffed spanakopita or sticky-sweet baklava on the go.

5. Rekindle Your Love of Mythology

When one thinks of Greece, the Greek gods and goddesses first come to mind. These mythological figures played a large role in building early Greece, since the Greeks thought the gods and goddesses controlled every part of their lives. You can see the influence the Greek gods and goddesses had on city life by taking a tour built entirely around them.

Originally published at robertsiekert.net on February 26, 2020.