Athens in winter: plenty of sunshine and culture.
08.12.2025If you want to escape the cold days in Switzerland and enjoy cultural experiences in autumnal temperatures and sunshine – immersing yourself in culture from antiquity to classical modernism – then Athens is the perfect destination.
The “Athens Architecture City Guide” by ArchDaily portrays Athens as a city where the profound legacy of antiquity is intricately woven into a modern and vibrant urban landscape. While world-renowned landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon stand as enduring symbols of classical architecture and symmetry, the Greek capital also reveals itself as a thriving metropolis where contemporary design coexists with rich historical heritage. The guide showcases a curated selection of 26 architectural works that span from ancient grandeur to modern-day innovation.
Key historical highlights include the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, alongside the Panathenaic Stadium, the Hellenic Parliament, the Zappeion, and the National Library. Contrasting these timeless structures are significant contemporary projects that often emphasize sustainability and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
Prominent examples include the New Acropolis Museum by Bernard Tschumi, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) by Renzo Piano, and the recently revitalized Piraeus Tower, which stands as Greece’s first green skyscraper. This architectural journey is further enriched by modern institutions like the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) and innovative interior designs such as the Ace Hotel, underscoring Athens’ emerging role as a hub for design and global architectural discourse.