Thirty minutes that justify every step of the climb

The Acropolis sits on a 156-meter limestone hill visible from most of Athens, but you cannot photograph it well from on top — you need to be at the same height or slightly above, and at a distance. Philopappos Hill, southwest of the Acropolis, is where to stand. You're facing northeast at the Parthenon on roughly the same level, and in summer the sun sets to the northwest, meaning golden light catches the west face of the Acropolis from your right. Lycabettus Hill at 277 meters, the highest point in the city, gives a panoramic view that includes the Acropolis in context within the city. Monastiraki Square is at street level below the Acropolis — useful for street photography with the ruins above. Golden hour here is fast, around 30 minutes at midsummer. Move quickly.