Athens Travel Blog – November 2024: Acropolis, Ancient History & Exploring with Travis
✈️ Arrival in Athens – Travel from London to the City Centre
In November 2024, I travelled with my son Travis from London Gatwick Airport to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos for a short but history-packed city break in Greece.
From the airport, we took the combined train and metro/tram system into the city. The journey is straightforward and efficient, with the airport line connecting directly to central Athens stations. We disembarked at the stop closest to our hotel and made a short walk to the Dorian Inn Hotel Athens, located within easy reach of the historic centre.
🌆 First Evening – Rooftop Views of the Acropolis
That first evening, we kept things simple and headed up to the hotel rooftop restaurant. It turned out to be a perfect introduction to Athens.
With a light meal and drinks, we sat looking out at the illuminated Acropolis of Athens glowing above the city. Seeing it lit up at night, towering over the modern streets below, was the first moment the scale of the history really hit home.
🏛️ Walking to the Acropolis – Cafés, Chaos & Ancient Streets
The next morning we set out on foot from the hotel toward the Acropolis. The walk is roughly 7 km (about 60-90 minutes) depending on the route, and it takes you through some of the most atmospheric parts of central Athens.
Along the way, you constantly pass layers of history—Roman ruins, neoclassical buildings, and small archaeological remains tucked between cafés and shops.
At one point we stopped for breakfast… including what may have been the largest croissant we’ve ever seen, paired with what was probably the worst coffee of the trip. A classic travel balance.
🏺 Climbing the Acropolis – Parthenon, Odeon & Ancient Temples
We purchased entry tickets and began the climb up through the winding pathways of the Acropolis.
Key highlights along the route included:
- The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, still used today for performances
- Smaller ancient sanctuaries and temple remains along the ascent
- Panoramic views across Athens as the city opens up below
At the summit, we reached the iconic structures of the Acropolis, including:
- Parthenon
- The Temple of Athena Nike (a smaller but beautifully preserved structure nearby)
The Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, dominates the skyline and remains one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. Over its long history it has been used as a temple, church, mosque, and even a munitions store.
One of the most significant moments of damage came in 1687, when Venetian forces besieging the city struck the structure, which was being used by Ottoman forces to store gunpowder—causing a massive explosion that destroyed much of the interior.
Despite this, what remains is still extraordinary.
⚖️ Socrates Prison & Acropolis Museum
After descending, we visited the so-called Prison of Socrates, traditionally identified as the site where the philosopher was held before his execution in 399 BC.
We then visited the nearby Acropolis Museum, which provides incredible context to everything seen on the hill above. The museum’s glass floors and open design allow you to see ongoing excavations beneath your feet while displaying original sculptures and artefacts from the Acropolis itself.
🍽️ Exploring Athens – Food, Streets & Local Flavour
The surrounding neighbourhoods were just as enjoyable to explore. Narrow streets, small squares, and endless cafés make it easy to wander without a fixed plan.
One of the highlights was stopping at a small local café for a fantastic gyro, served simply and perfectly—one of those meals that reminds you why street food is often the best food while travelling.
🏛️ Ancient Agora – Temples, Stoas & Classical Athens
The following day we continued exploring Athens, focusing on the Ancient Agora of Athens, the heart of classical public life.
Key features included:
- The Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world
- The Stoa of Attalos, reconstructed and now housing museum exhibits
- Open courtyards and ruins where public gatherings, politics, and philosophy once took place
- Smaller shrines and foundations scattered throughout the site
Walking through the Agora really brings home how central this area was to the development of democracy and Western political thought.
🇬🇷 Final Thoughts – Athens Through History
Athens is one of those cities where history isn’t confined to museums—it’s everywhere. From ancient ruins embedded in modern streets to monumental sites like the Acropolis rising above the city, it’s impossible not to feel connected to the past while walking around.
Travelling with Travis added another layer to the experience, sharing moments that combine history, travel, and everyday discovery.
❓ Travel Reflection
If you’ve visited Athens, did you focus mainly on the major sites like the Acropolis and Agora—or did you find some of the smaller, less obvious ruins and neighbourhood spots just as memorable?
