Parthenon travel guide

The Parthenon, an iconic symbol of ancient civilization, was constructed in the mid-5th century BCE during the Golden Age of Athens.

It was built to honor Athena, the city's patron goddess. The temple's stunning architecture and intricate sculptures are testament to the brilliance of architects Ictinos and Callicrates, and the sculptor Phidias.

Over the years, the Parthenon has served various roles - from a treasury of the Delian League, to a Christian church, to a mosque under Ottoman rule, and finally to its current state as a monumental ruin.

The 1687 Venetian bombardment inflicted significant damage, and subsequent looting and vandalism further marred its beauty.

Today, restoration efforts are ongoing to preserve the Parthenon for future generations. Its enduring legacy and architectural grandeur continue to captivate visitors from around the world, standing as a testament to Greece's rich historical and cultural heritage.

Located in the dynamic Athens Municipality, the popular Parthenon is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Athina or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Greece.

Athina is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Athina offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Athina and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Acropolis of Athens, Acropolis Museum, Athens National Garden, Ancient Agora of Athens, and National Archaeological Museum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Athina has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Athina, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

Parthenon is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Athina, Greece. If you're flying in, Athens International Airport is approximately 12.1 miles (19.5 km) away from Athina. From there, you can easily reach Parthenon by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Athina, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Parthenon, which is located 0.9 miles (1.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Parthenon, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Athens 105 58, Greece, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Parthenon!

To truly enjoy your visit to Parthenon, joining a tour that features this popular ancient Greek temple in Athina is highly recommended. As one of Greece's most iconic attractions, Parthenon draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Parthenon starting at just 15.5 EUR below.

The best time to explore Parthenon is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are less dense. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring the ancient ruins. The site tends to be crowded in the summer months, so visiting during these off-peak seasons allows for a more relaxed experience. It's worth noting that the Parthenon is breathtaking at any time of day, but there's a special magic during sunrise and sunset. The way the light illuminates the ancient stones creates an unforgettable atmosphere. If your trip coincides with the Athens Festival, usually held from May to October, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a range of cultural events in the vicinity. Remember to bring comfortable footwear for the rocky terrain, and a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. With this in mind, you'll be ready to make the most of your visit to this iconic site.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Parthenon and Greece's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Athens International Airport and the city of Athina, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Greece cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Athina and beyond.

Conveniently explore Parthenon and plenty more captivating attractions in Athina by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Parthenon and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Athina has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Parthenon below.

Aside from Parthenon, Athina is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Athina, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Acropolis of Athens, Acropolis Museum, and Athens National Garden.

Acropolis of Athens is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Athina, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 120,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Acropolis of Athens is Athens 105 58, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Athina is Acropolis Museum. Like Acropolis of Athens, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 65,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece.

Athens National Garden is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Athina. This park and top attraction in Athina has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 1, Athina 105 57, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Athina below.