Europe is home to several stunning mega-cities. Places like Madrid in Spain or Berlin in Germany attract millions of tourists every year, and it’s easy to see why. But there is another huge metropolis on the old continent that has been described as a “design masterpiece” and some buildings there are truly jaw-dropping.
That city is Athens, the capital of Greece. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, but it’s also modern, vibrant and packed with beautiful architecture and landmarks. According to Macrotrends, the wider Athens urban area is home to more than 3.18 million people in 2025. That puts it firmly in the mega-city category, but much of the city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Tourists from around the world come to see the ancient sights, but what makes Athens stand out is how it mixes old and new.
That’s one of the reasons why the city has been called a “design masterpiece”.
Many of the buildings in Athens, both ancient and new, are famous for their attention to detail.
The Parthenon, perched on the Acropolis, is one of the most recognisable buildings in the world.
The Temple of Hephaestus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Ancient Agora are just a few more examples of architectural brilliance dating back thousands of years.
Even beyond the ancient ruins, the city has carefully kept its heritage while adding new touches.
The Acropolis Museum, built over an excavation site, lets visitors see ancient foundations through glass floors.
Meanwhile, the Panathenaic Stadium, made entirely of marble, is another example of Athens’ unique style.
In recent years, the city has continued to build in the same spirit.
One standout is the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano.
It’s home to the Greek National Opera and the National Library of Greece, and features open parkland, clean lines, and clever environmental design.
As far as online reviews go, they praise the capital city for all of the above.
One person wrote: “Athens is a design masterpiece. Renzo Piano’s opera roof, the shadow of the Parthenon, every turn gives you déjà vu and goose-bumps.”
Another review added: “It’s the only place where ancient temples, glass museums and street art all feel perfectly connected.”