Athens Monastiraki

Museum of Cycladic Art, 4 Neophytou Douka (☎210 72 28 321; www.cycladic.gr), This museum's informative and well-labeled contents highlight a style of Greek art different from the other museums of its caliber. The first floor holds prime examples of Cycladic art, which is defined by its violin-shaped figures that capture human form in extreme simplicity. The fourth floor also holds dioramas about life in seventh century Athens. From Syntagma, walk to Pl. Konolaki; the museum is two blocks past the square. Pictures without flash permitted. €7, over 65 €3.50, students €2.50 for students, under 18 free. Open M 10am-5pm, W 10am-5pm, Th 10am-8pm, F-Sa 10am-5pm, Su 11am-5pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Has air conditioning.
Benaki Museum, 1 Koumbari and Vas. Sofias (☎210 36 71 000; www.benaki.gr), Founded in 1930 from a collection accumulated by Antony Benaki in his family's mansion, this museum—the central one of the Benaki museum network—houses an extensive collection of art from Greek history to the present. Pottery, busts, paintings, and a gold crown are shown behind glass in the museum that reopened in 2000. From Syntagma, walk along Vas. Sofias; the museum is at the intersection of Vas. Sofias and Koumbari. €6, students and over 65 €3, EU students and under 19 free. Open M 9am-5pm, W 9am-5pm, Th 9am-midnight, F-Sa 9am-5pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Has air conditioning.
National Gallery, Vas. Konstantinou 50 (☎210 72 35 937; www.nationalgallery.gr), Greece is not renowned for its modern art, yet it seems the National Gallery showcases work mostly from the last few hundred years. The main collection holds a large number of Greek portraits, whose prominent moles have been immortalized forever, but lacks any artwork that really stands out. Located on the intersection of Vas. Konstantinou and Vas. Sofias by the Hilton Hotel. Photos without flash permitted. €6.50; students, children, and over 65 €3. Open M-Sa 9am-3pm, Su 10am-2pm. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access. Has air conditioning.