Overwhelming heat, little shade, high volumes of crowds and uneven terrain can make a visit to the classical marvel a minefield. Athens gets extremely hot in summer and the recent record temperatures across the continent saw authorities close the monument in July 2023, as visitors collapsed and suffered from the effects of heat as the mercury rose to 48°C (118°F).

It’s a different experience altogether in low season, although you’ll still be advised to wear your grippiest shoes and watch where you tread. The attraction has recently capped visitors at 20,000 a day but that's still a lot of people to contend with.

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Europe’s most dangerous tourist attractions