The Acropolis above a city of rooftop bars
Athens is where Western democracy, theatre and philosophy took shape, and the Acropolis still dominates the skyline. Climb to the Parthenon early in the day, then explore the excellent Acropolis Museum at its foot. The Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus and National Archaeological Museum fill in the story. Between the ruins, the city is lively and unpretentious: wander Plaka and Monastiraki, eat souvlaki and meze in Psyrri, and watch sunset from Lycabettus Hill.