Athen holiday Information by Netty

Spoilt for choice is the best way of describing the sightseeing that can be done in Athens

There are few cities in the world with as much history as Athens. The capital of modern day Greece, this magnificent city is one of the oldest in the world, with a recorded history dating back 3,600 years. Athens can proudly boast that it has contributed more to the civilisation of mankind than any other. Humanism and democracy were born here, as were Aeschylus, Euripides, Plato, Sophocles and Socrates amongst others.

Athens was first called Aktike or Akte, after its first king Akteos. The name changed to Kekropia after the second king Kekrops, who succeeded the throne after marrying Akteos’ daughter. Legend has it that he had the lower body of a dragon. These were times of Greek mythology, those wondrous tales that we are still fascinated by today. During this reign, the God Poseidon and Goddess Athena were competing for the protection of the city and each offered gifts. Poseidon took up his trident and hit the rock at the Acropolis (the mark can still be seen) and a spring of water gushed out, whilst Athena offered an Olive tree. The women voted for Athena’s gift, while the men voted for Poseidon’s. There was one more woman so Athena won and the city took her name.

Spoilt for choice is the best way of describing the sightseeing that can be done in Athens. One place you must visit is one of the most famous historical sites in the world, the Acropolis. This large hill rises majestically from the centre of the city and contains a cluster of ancient ruins. Climb to the top and there is the Parthenon, a beautiful, White Marble reminder of the great days of the Greek Empire. Seeing this fabulous monument up close is something you’ll never forget. It is vey calm and peaceful and gives you a real sense of history as you walk where people from past centuries have walked before you.

The fabulous national gardens give you a chance to relax in a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle. There is lush greenery with duck ponds, numerous picnic tables, cafes and even a small zoo.

The best thing you can do to make sure you see everything of importance is to book yourself onto one of the Athens walking tours. The friendly and knowledgeable guide will take you round all the major attractions, which then you can choose to go back to at your leisure as you’ve seen them all and now know what you found most interesting. These are particularly recommended to tourists making their first visit to the city, as the prospect of having so much to see can be daunting. Keep your camera with you at all times, you will want to remember this trip.

Athens; Stock Market Invest Information - Distance Travel Guide.