FENCA Congress 2025

The FENCA Congress 2025 will be held in the historic city of Athens, Greece

from 8 to 10 October 2025, at the Royal Olympic Hotel.

Rooms are available at exclusive rates starting from €205 per night (including breakfast, free Wi-Fi, VAT and all taxes). Book now!

Welcome to Athens, a city where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. As you prepare for the upcoming congress, take some time to explore the captivating sights that make Athens a must-visit destination. Here are some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions:

#1 Acropolis

No visit to Athens is complete without marveling at the Acropolis. This ancient citadel, perched high above the city, is home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. It's a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Greece.

The entrance ticket also gives you access to the ancient Dyonisos Theatre, and you will have beautiful views of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient theater that still hosts concerts and events as unforgettable experiences in a stunning setting on the southern slope of the Acropolis.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30 (last admission: 18:00)
• Regular Entrance Fee: €20
• To avoid long waiting lines, we recommend buying your ticket in advance: Online Tickets for Archaeological Sites | e-tickets Acropolis & Slopes
• Online Tickets for Archaeological Sites | e-tickets | Step 1
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 15 min (1 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Acropolis of Athens, Athina 105 58, Greece - Google Maps

#2 Areopagus (Areios Pagos)

Only a few meters from the Acropolis, the Areopagus is a rocky hill steeped in ancient history and myth. Once the meeting place of Athens’ high court, it’s where legendary trials were held – most famously, the trial of the philosopher Socrates. Today, it offers a peaceful spot to take in sweeping views of the city, the Acropolis above, and the Agora below.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a scenic break between conference sessions, the Areopagus is a must-visit. Wear good shoes – the marble can be slippery – and don’t forget your camera!

• Open 24/7, no entrance fee
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Areopag, Athens, Greece - Google Maps

#3 Acropolis Museum

Just a stone's throw from our congress hotel, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Acropolis site. It's a perfect blend of history and modern design, offering a fascinating glimpse into Athens' past.

The museum’s highlights include, among many others, the Parthenon Gallery, the Caryatids of the Erechtheion, the Archaic Korai, and the underground excavation.

• Opening Hours: Monday: 09:00-17:00 (last admission: 16:30), Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday / Sunday: 09:00-20:00 (last admission: 19:30), Friday: 09:00-22:00 (last admission: 21:30)
• Regular Entrance Fee: €20
• To avoid long waiting lines, we recommend buying your ticket in advance: Acropolis Museum | Tickets
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 5 min (0.3 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Acropolis Museum - Google Maps

#4 Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympeion)

Across the street from our congress hotel, be awed by the sheer scale of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples ever built in ancient Greece. Though only a few columns remain, their grandeur is undeniable.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30 (last admission: 18:00)
• Regular Entrance Fee: €20
• NB: The ticket for this attraction alone is quite pricey. However, multi-site tickets at (incl. #12 Ancient Agora #13 Roman Agora #14 Hadrian’s Library #20 Aristotle’s Lyceum) are usually available on site a quite fair rate.
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 5 min (0.3 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Temple of Olympian Zeus - Google Maps

#5 Hadrian’s Gate

When visiting the Olympeion, you will also pass Hadrian's Gate, a triumphal arch made of fine Pentelic marble. It serves as a monument in honor of Emperor Hadrian and is still very well preserved today.

• Open 24/7, no entrance fee
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 5 min (0.3 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Arch of Hadrian - Google Maps

#6 Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and continues to be a symbol of athletic excellence. Even without entering the site’s area, you can see most of it just from the street.

• Opening Hours: Daily: 08:00-19:00
• Regular Entrance Fee: €10
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 12 min (0.8 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Panathenaic Stadium - Google Maps

#7 Plaka

Wander through the charming streets of Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens. With its narrow alleys, neoclassical architecture, and bustling tavernas, Plaka is the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and a taste of local cuisine.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 8 min (0.5 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Plaka, Athens, Greece - Google Maps

#8 Syntagma Square

The bustling heart of modern Athens, Syntagma Square is home to the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony, a unique spectacle of precision and tradition.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 15 min (1.1 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Syntagma Square, Athina, Greece - Google Maps

#9 Ermou Street (Odos Ermou)

Between so much history and culture, you can treat yourself to a bit of variety. From Syntagma Square, head for pure shopping pleasure to Ermou Street – one of the main shopping streets in Athens. It is said to be the 10th most expensive shopping street in the world with lots of designer and luxury goods. But also many international fashion brands and chains have set up shop here, so nobody leaves Ermou Street without a shopping bag.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 20 min (1.5 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Ermou, Athens, Greece - Google Maps

#10 Monastiraki

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Monastiraki, very near to Syntagma Square and known for its flea market, eclectic shops, and lively cafés. It's a great place to hunt for souvenirs and to experience the local culture.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 16 min (1.2 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Monastiraki, Athens, Greece - Google Maps

#11 National Garden

Near our congress hotel and Syntagma Square, the National Garden offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. Once the royal garden of Queen Amalia, this lush 15.5-hectare park is filled with shaded pathways, exotic plants, ancient ruins, and even a small zoo. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll, a quiet picnic, or a break between sightseeing. 

• Open sunrise to sunset, no entrance fee
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 8 min (0.5 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Athens National Garden - Google Maps

#12 Ancient Agora

Step back in time at the Ancient Agora, the heart of public life in ancient Athens. Explore the ruins of temples, marketplaces, and the Stoa of Attalos, which now houses a museum.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30 (last admission 18:00)
• Regular Entrance Fee: €20
• NB: The ticket for this attraction alone is quite pricey. However, multi-site tickets (incl. #4 Olympeion #13 Roman Agora #14 Hadrian’s Library #20 Aristotle’s Lyceum) are usually available on site at a quite fair rate.
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 20 min (1.4 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Ancient Agora of Athens - Google Maps

#13 Roman Agora

Tucked between the Acropolis and Monastiraki, the Roman Agora is a fascinating open-air site that once served as the commercial and civic heart of Roman-era Athens. Built in the 1st century BC with funding from Julius Caesar and Augustus, it replaced the older Greek Agora as the city’s main marketplace. Highlights include the Gate of Athena Archegetis, a grand marble entrance, and the Tower of the Winds, an ancient weather station and clock that still stands remarkably intact. Wandering through its columns and ruins offers a quiet, atmospheric contrast to the bustling modern city just outside its walls.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30 (last admission 18:00)
• Regular Entrance Fee: €10
• NB: The ticket for this attraction alone is quite pricey. However, multi-site tickets (incl. #4 Olympeion #12 Ancient Agora #14 Hadrian’s Library #20 Aristotle’s Lyceum) are usually available on site at a quite fair rate.
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 15 min (1.1 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora) - Google Maps

#14 Hadrian’s Library

Next to the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library is a captivating blend of Roman grandeur and Greek heritage. Built in 132 AD by Emperor Hadrian, this once-majestic complex was more than a library – it was a cultural hub, adorned with marble columns, tranquil courtyards, and lecture halls. Today, its elegant ruins whisper stories of scholars, philosophers, and emperors, offering visitors a serene escape into the intellectual soul of ancient Athens.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30
• Regular Entrance Fee: €6
• NB: The ticket for this attraction alone is quite pricey. However, multi-site tickets (incl. #4 Olympeion #12 Ancient Agora #13 Roman Agora #20 Aristotle’s Lyceum) are usually available on site at a quite fair rate.
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 18 min (1.3 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Hadrian's Library - Google Maps

#15 National Archaeological Museum

Dive into Greece's rich history at the National Archaeological Museum. With its vast collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years, it's a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

• Opening Hours: Monday: 13:00-20:00, Tuesday to Sunday: 08:00-20:00
• Regular Entrance Fee: €12
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 40 min (2.7 km)
• Taxi: 10 min
• Public transport: 20 min
• Royal Olympic Hotel to National Archaeological Museum - Google Maps

#16 Mount Lycabettus

For panoramic views of Athens, hike or take the funicular up Mount Lycabettus. At the summit, you'll find a charming chapel and a café where you can relax and soak in the stunning vistas.

• Funicular operating hours: daily 09:00 - 02:30
• One-way ticket: €9
• Round-trip ticket: €12
• The funicular runs every 30 minutes, and during peak times, the frequency can increase to every 10 minutes.
• If you are in good shape, the hike up (and down) is well doable 😉
• Walking distance from congress hotel (up to the summit): 40 min (2.7 km)
• Taxi: 12 min
• Public transport: 40 min
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Mount Lycabettus, Athens 114 71, Greece - Google Maps

#17 Philopappos Hill

At 147 meters, Philopappos Hill is not the highest elevation in Athens. However, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the Acropolis from here and it is quieter than on other hills. You can easily climb it on foot. Socrates is said to have been imprisoned here before his conviction.

• Walking distance from congress hotel (up to the summit): 25 min (1.5 km)
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Philopappos Monument - Google Maps

#18 Central Market

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Athens Central Market, where you can find fresh produce, meats, and spices. It's a sensory delight and a great place to experience local life.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 25 min (1.7 km)
• Taxi: 10 min
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Varvakios Central Municipal Market - Google Maps

# 19 Aristotle’s School (Lyceum)

Hidden in a quiet park near Syntagma Square, Aristotle’s Lyceum is the site where the great philosopher founded his school in 335 BC. It was here that he taught logic, ethics, politics, and science. Today, visitors can explore the peaceful – though, as a site, not very spectacular – archaeological remains of the gymnasium and lecture areas, surrounded by greenery.

• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:30
• Regular Entrance Fee: €5
• NB: The ticket for this attraction alone is quite pricey. However, multi-site tickets (incl. #4 Olympeion #12 Ancient Agora #13 Roman Agora #14 Hadrian’s Library #19 Kerameikos) are usually available on site at a quite fair rate.
• Walking distance from congress hotel: 23 min (1.5 km)
• Taxi: 10 min
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Archaeological Site of the Lyceum of Aristotle - Google Maps

# 20 Gazi

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Gazi, a trendy neighborhood known for its bars, clubs, and restaurants. It's the place to be for an evening of fun and entertainment.

• Walking distance from congress hotel: 35 min (2.5 km)
• Taxi: 15 min
• Royal Olympic Hotel to Gazi, Athens 118 54, Greece - Google Maps

#21 Excursion to Piraeus / Mikrolimanos

Imagine dining just steps from the water, with fishing boats gently bobbing in the harbor and the scent of grilled seafood in the air. That’s Mikrolimanos – Piraeus’ most charming marina, where elegant tavernas and seafood restaurants line the waterfront in a perfect curve, only 15 taxi minutes away from our congress hotel.

Royal Olympic Hotel to Mikrolimano, Greece - Google Maps

#22 Excursion to Cape Sounion: Temple of Poseidon

Just an hour’s drive from Athens, the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Greece. Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, this ancient sanctuary to the god of the sea is steeped in myth and history. As the sun dips into the horizon, the marble columns glow golden, and the sea stretches endlessly below – an unforgettable moment that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Whether you're a history lover, a romantic, or simply in search of beauty, a visit to Poseidon's temple is a magical escape from the city.

There are many well-organized tours to this stunning beauty of the Aegean Sea, perfectly timed for the sunset experience, which can be booked via various agencies and well-known travel platforms.

#23 Cruise to Saronic Islands: Hydra – Poros – Aegina

Just a short ferry ride from the city, the Saronic Islands Hydra, Aegina, and Poros offer the perfect blend of charm, history, and relaxation. Spend the day island-hopping through crystal-clear waters, exploring car-free cobblestone streets, ancient temples, and seaside tavernas. Whether you're tasting pistachios in Aegina, admiring Hydra’s elegant mansions, or enjoying a sunset cocktail in Poros, a Saronic cruise is a refreshing and unforgettable escape from the urban buzz of Athens.

There are well-organized one day cruises to these beautiful islands, which can be booked via various agencies and well-known travel platforms.

#24 Excursion to Meteora: A Day Trip to the Skies

Rising like stone giants from the Thessalian plain, the towering rock pillars of Meteora are home to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring monastic complexes. Just a few hours from Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a surreal blend of natural wonder and spiritual serenity. Perched atop the cliffs, centuries-old monasteries seem to float in the sky, offering breathtaking views and a deep sense of peace. Whether you're drawn by the dramatic landscapes, the rich history, or the quiet beauty of the chapels, a day trip to Meteora is a soul-stirring escape you’ll never forget.

There are well-organized one day tours to this to this amazing place, which can be booked via various agencies and well-known travel platforms.

NB: Meteora can be perfectly combined with #25 Delphi to a two-day tour, also offered by many agencies / platforms.

#25 Excursion to Delphi: A Journey to the Navel of the Ancient World

Step back in time with a day trip to Delphi, once considered the center of the ancient world. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a stunning mix of myth, history, and mountain scenery. Walk the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once whispered prophecies to kings and warriors. Explore ancient ruins, a world-class museum, and breathtaking views over the olive-filled valley below.

NB: Delphi can be perfectly combined with #24 Meteora to a two-day tour, also offered by many agencies / platforms.

#26 Extend your stay in Greece: It just takes a ferry ride to the Cycladic Islands

Why rush home when paradise is just a surprisingly short and low-priced ferry ride away? After your congress in Athens, treat yourself to a few unforgettable days on the Cycladic Islands – easily reached from nearby Piraeus Port.

Whether you crave the whitewashed charm of Santorini, the vibrant energy of Mykonos, or the laid-back authenticity of Paros or Naxos, the Cyclades offer the perfect post-conference escape. Picture yourself unwinding on sun-drenched beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or dining seaside under the stars. It’s the ideal way to shift from networking to recharging – Greek island style.