On another corner sits the majestic parliament building, with the tomb of the unknown soldier, guarded by evzones dressed in the traditional Greek uniform. There's a changing of the guard ceremony daily, at different times, but the most elaborate ceremony takes place on Sunday. It's on Sunday that the young guards don their foustanellas (kilts), which have 400 pleats, one for each year of the Ottoman occupation. A band accompanies the procession, which begins at the barracks at 10:45am, and usually arrives in front of the parliament building at 11:15am.

Starting underground, in the new subway station, you will be marvel at the museum-like exhibits the city has set up. (Apparently, it took years to build this section of subway line due to all the ancient artifacts they kept uncovering as they dug.) There are skeletons, pottery, tombs, and all kinds of fascinating items on display in this amazing station. One of the walls has actually been preserved as the trenches of an archaeological dig. Kids of all ages will be very impressed!

Above ground, across from the square, sits the majestic parliament building, with the tomb of the unknown soldier guarded by evzones wearing the traditional Greek costumes. There's even a changing of the guard ceremony if you arrive on the hour.

Also across Syntagma Square is the gorgeous Grande Bretagna Hotel. It's the most prestigious hotel in Athens and has a rich history of hosting dignitaries.

The Parliament Building is fronted by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is guarded by the Evzone, or national guards. Their traditional outfit of cream-colored billowy shirts over skirts and stockinged legs makes for a great picture. Take the kids up to the unsmiling guards and snap away. Their high-stepping march in front of the tomb is a spectacle to see. Doublecheck with your hotel to see when the changing of the guards will take place.

When the kids lose interest in that, they will invariably want to by some seed from the man in the plaza to feed the pigeons. More photo opportunities!

From here, you can head down Ermou Street for shopping, or to the National Gardens for a cool respite from the blazing Athens sun. With kids, I recommend the Gardens. They are cool and have ponds with ducks as well as a small zoo . . .

Syntagma Square is also an important transportation hub in Athens. The E95 Airport Bus stops just south of the Parliament at the edge of the National Gardens. There is a major Metro stop within the plaza, which is a good spot for a rest or for people watching. A steady stream of public buses passes the square constantly. There are several airline and ferry offices in the area along with travel agencies, post office, city tourism office, hotels, restaurants and shops.

Syntagma Square is a prime spot for protests and political rallies, but all was relatively calm here during my stay in town. The square seems to be well guarded so it is generally a safe place to hang out.