traveldk.com

The fascinating displays of finds from the city’s ancient marketplace focus on objects used in the workings of the first democracy, including the declaration inscribed on marble that a government of democracy, not tyranny, was to rule. (see Stoa of Attalos)

Follow the progress of Greek art and culture through this first-rate collection from the eras of antiquity to the mid-20th century. Walk through excellently presented displays in the gorgeous Neo-Classical mansion of the Benaki family. (see Benaki Museum)

The Cycladic island civilization of the Aegean flourished at the same time as the early Egyptians and Mesopotamians, but produced something very different: strangely elegant, stylized marble goddess-cult figurines. These were the first pieces in the centuries-long tradition of Greek art that was to follow; this is the world’s largest collection. (see Museum of Cycladic Art)

A rich collection of Greek folk art from 1650 to the present day, including traditional tapestries, embroideries, costumes, shadow puppets, and not-to-be-missed sumptuous filigreed jewellery. Another highlight is an original room full of frescoes by internationally renowned folk artist Theofilos Khatzmikhail, transported in its entirety from his home on the island of Lesvos. (see Museum of Greek Folk Art)

Greek musical instruments are far more varied than the bouzouki that plucked out the theme to Zorba the Greek . The Greek musical tradition, though heavily influenced by Turkey and Asia, has filtered through the unique Hellenic sensibility. The array of beautiful instruments includes carved Byzantine lyres, ivory lutes and gypsy flutes. (see Museum of Greek Musical Instruments)

One of the world’s most important museums, jam-packed with a jaw-dropping array of treasures from the ancient and Classical Greek civilizations. Don’t miss the exquisite frescoes of 17th-century BC Thira, and the golden hoard of splendid prehistoric Mycenae. (see National Archaeological Museum)

Greece’s most important art gallery, showing the greatest works of Greek artists. Masterpieces by El Greco (known in his homeland by his true name, Domenikos Theotokopoulos) are the highlight of the collection. Hosts major travelling exhibitions.

Scheduled to open in 2007, this beautifully designed museum is being built partly to give a fitting new home to the famed marble sculptures of the Acropolis, and partly as a political gambit to force Britain to return the Parthenon marbles, which currently reside in the British Museum. (see Museum of Greek Musical Instruments)