Acropolis and Parthenon

The Acropolis is the rocky hill at the heart of Athens, and on its summit stand the temples of the city's golden age. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, was built between 447 and 432 BC; beside it, the porch of the Erechtheion is held up by six maiden figures, the Caryatids, whose originals are now in the museum below.

At the foot of the hill, the modern Acropolis Museum displays sculptures from the temples, with glass floors over excavated streets. Afterwards, wander the lanes of the Plaka district for lunch.

Arrive at opening time to avoid the heat and the tour groups, wear shoes with good grip, as the marble paths are slippery, and carry water. A rooftop dinner with a view of the floodlit Acropolis ends the day well.