Ep 8. Athens and Side Trips

In season 5 episode 8 of Rick Steves' Europe, viewers are taken on a journey to Athens, Greece and its neighboring destinations. The episode starts in Athens itself, where Rick sets out on foot to explore the city's ancient history, culture, and modern vibrancy. The first stop is the iconic Acropolis of Athens, a massive rocky outcrop that towers over the city and is home to the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.

As Rick explores the Acropolis, he provides viewers with a fascinating insight into the ancient Greek civilization that gave rise to this incredible monument. He explains how democracy, philosophy, and science all flourished in Athens during its Golden Age, and how the Acropolis was the city's spiritual center and a symbol of its power and wealth.

From the Acropolis, Rick heads to the city's bustling markets and shops, where he samples local delicacies like olives, cheese, and fresh seafood. He also takes viewers to some of Athens' most famous landmarks, such as the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch.

After experiencing the vibrant energy of Athens, Rick takes viewers on several side trips to nearby destinations that offer a different view of Greece. One of these side trips is to Delphi, a small mountain town that was believed to be the center of the ancient world by the Greeks. Here, Rick visits the Temple of Apollo, home to the famous oracle that was considered a conduit for the gods and a source of wisdom and guidance.

Another side trip takes viewers to the Peloponnese Peninsula, which is home to some of Greece's most stunning natural scenery and historic sites. Here, Rick explores the fortified city of Mycenae, which was once home to the legendary Greek hero Agamemnon. He also visits the ancient theater of Epidaurus, which is famous for its perfect acoustics and is still used for performances to this day.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to Rick's trademark mix of insightful commentary, engaging storytelling, and stunning visuals. Whether he's exploring the ancient ruins of Athens or hiking through the hills of the Peloponnese, Rick's passion for travel and culture shines through in every moment.

Overall, Athens and Side Trips is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in Greek history, culture, and natural beauty. With its in-depth exploration of one of the world's most iconic cities and its surrounding destinations, this episode is sure to inspire viewers to start planning their own Greek adventure.