Europe has several stunning megacities. Places like Madrid, Spain and Berlin, Germany attract millions of tourists each year, and it's easy to see why. However, on the old continent there is another huge metropolitan city, which is described as a “masterpiece of design”, and there are truly amazing buildings there.
The city is Athens, the capital of Greece. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, but it is also modern, lively and packed with beautiful architecture and landmarks. According to MacroTrends, the wider urban areas of Athens were home to over 3.18 million people in 2025. This is firmly placed in the megacity category, but much of the city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Tourists from all over the world come to see ancient tourist spots, but what sets Athens apart is how it mixes old and new.
That's one of the reasons why cities are called “design masterpieces.”
Many of the ancient and new Athenian buildings are renowned for their attention to detail.
Perched in the Acropolis, the Parthenon is one of the most famous buildings in the world.
The Temple of Hephaestus, the Odeon of Atticus in Herod, and the ancient Agora are just a few of the brilliance of architecture dating back thousands of years.
Beyond ancient ruins, the city carefully retains its heritage, adding new touches.
Built at the excavation site, the Acropolis Museum allows visitors to see the ancient foundations through glass floors.
On the other hand, the Panathini Stadium, made entirely of marble, is another example of Athens' unique style.
In recent years, cities have continued to build with the same spirit.
One outstanding is the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano.
Home to the Greek National Opera and the Greek National Library, it features open parklands, clean lines and clever environmental design.
As far as online reviews go, they praise the capital for all of the above.
One wrote: “Athens is a masterpiece of design. It gives the roof of the Renzo piano opera, the shadows of the Parthenon, each turn, giving it the deja vu and goose bumps.”
Another review states, “The only place where ancient temples, glass museums and street art all feel fully connected.”
