The Greek capital's greatest classical site was truly magnificent, they said, but the crowds had been such, even in April, that they preferred to experience it from a distance.
"We didn't go, not with all those people," said Jackie, looking up at the monument, built in the fifth-century BC, from the boulevard below.
The couple had pondered whether to do a private tour instead. The Greek culture ministry is planning to run private guided tours of the ancient complex - at a cost of €5,000 (£4,285) for a small group.
"We wouldn't pay that," said Malcolm, a lorry driver. "Crazy prices," Jackie chipped in.
Denne historien er fra April 15, 2024-utgaven av The Guardian.
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Denne historien er fra April 15, 2024-utgaven av The Guardian.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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