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The crown jewel of Greece, if not all of Europe. Its temples are the most influential buildings in Western architecture. (see Acropolis)

The sacred rock of the Acropolis dominates Plaka, and its different temples are clearly visible from all angles throughout the neighbourhood. Legend holds that it was on this rock that Athena (see Athena) won dominion of Athens from Poseidon, and it has been devoted to worshipping the goddess since 650 BC. (see Acropolis, Archaeological Sites - Acropolis)

This 120-year-old house right in the middle of Plaka is a favourite with artists and professors, who enjoy the quiet, historic location and the original frescoes in the entryway. Rooms are basic and clean, though most have ugly linoleum floors and only half have air conditioning – for which guests pay extra.

This is one of the best deals in town. For only a little more than most budget hotels, you get a stylish restaurant and lobby, and bright, comfortable rooms with room service, satellite TV, business amenities, and, if you ask, Acropolis views. Though not located in a tourist neighbourhood, it’s within an easy walk of most sights.

The Adrian offers rooms that are small, clean and serviceable, if somewhat sterile, in the heart of Plaka next to Hadrian’s Library. The rooms have small balconies and the roof garden has lovely views. The café-filled square below is a nice place to sit, but can get noisy at night.

The stretch of this street from the Thissio metro to Hadrian’s Library offers a wonderful view of the ancient Agora and Acropolis.

Sit in one of the many outdoor cafés lining this street for a ring-side view of the ancient marketplace. (see Adrianou)

An easy and rewarding day trip, only half an hour from Athens, with pleasant beaches, famously tasty pistachios, the Temple of Aphaia, and Agios Nektarios, one of the largest churches in the Balkans.

When the “Father of Tragedy” began writing, theatre was in its infancy. He brought a wealth of characters, powerful narratives, grandeur of language, and a sweeping vision of humans working out a plan of cosmic justice to works such as Prometheus Unbound and the Oresteia .

To the protagonist, Aeschylus introduced a second character, the antagonist, creating new possibilities. Then in 472 BC came Persians , the earliest known play.