Athens.

During our cruise I was lucky enough to get Boyfriend off the amazing ship to visit the Acropolis in Athens. All I could hear as we got off at the port was music from the Disney movie Hercules "Who puts the glad in gladiator - Herculeeeeees, from zero to hero, and that's a fact". I was so excited to see the ancient Greek ruins. Giant old monuments seem really peaceful to me. Not sombre, but they certainly command a certain respect.
For those of you who don't know what the Acropolis is, it's a peak in the middle of the city of Athens, on which the ancient Greeks constructed temples for their gods, the Olympians. The site overlooks the city and the panoramic views are incredible. It was absolutely boiling though! Hello sunburn.
Instead of booking an expensive excursion with the cruise company, we just went on our own. I think this is a safe enough option unless you're a total idiot who can't tell the time. It's worth it, as a basic tour with the cruise can cost £40 each. We took the well known 'Hop on - Hop off' sightseeing bus. You know, the red ones, open top. If you book with Viator they guarantee to get you to the next port of call for your cruise if you miss the boat because of their services.
It's a great way to see the city in a day. It's also a great way to say you've been around Athens when you've already seen what you came for. ;)
The Acropolis is amazing, go check it out. My favourites were the Temple of Olympians, Odeon of Herodes and the Temple of Athena. Then down in the city there's Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Zeus and Panathinaiko Stadium (the site of the 1st Olympic Games in 1896).
Yeah, go check it out. Ancient stuff. Awesome.

xoxo