Athens, Greece

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Athens, Greece

Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization! This vibrant city is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its stunning ancient ruins to its bustling modern streets, Athens has something to offer everyone.

Places to Visit

Ancient Ruins

  • The Acropolis: The crown jewel of Athens, this ancient citadel sits atop a hill and features the Parthenon, a stunning temple dedicated to Athena.
  • The Ancient Agora: Explore the heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Museum of the Ancient Agora.
  • The Theater of Dionysus: This ancient theater is one of the oldest in Greece and offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis.

Museums

  • The National Archaeological Museum: Home to a vast collection of Greek artifacts, including works from the Mycenaean period.
  • The Acropolis Museum: A modern museum showcasing the art and architecture of the Acropolis.
  • The Benaki Museum: Explore Greek culture and history through its collections.

Parks and Gardens

  • The National Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring walking trails, a small zoo, and plenty of shade.
  • The Philopappos Hill Park: Enjoy stunning views of the Acropolis from this scenic park.

Activities

Explore the City

  • Walk or Bike Through Monastiraki Flea Market: Every Sunday, the streets are closed to traffic and transformed into a bustling flea market.
  • Take a Street Art Tour: Discover Athens’ vibrant street art scene through guided tours.
  • Visit the Panathenaic Stadium: This historic stadium hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Day Trips

  • Delphi: Explore the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, featuring the famous Oracle of Delphi and breathtaking views of the valley below.
  • Aegina Island: Visit this charming island town, featuring a stunning temple of Aphaia and plenty of beautiful beaches.
  • Cape Sounion: Watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea from this scenic cape.

Where to Eat

Traditional Greek Cuisine

  • Taverna Ta Karambeli: Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Ta Kounistra: Savor delicious souvlaki and other street food at this popular spot.
  • Metaxi Mas: Treat yourself to high-quality taverna food with a focus on local ingredients.

Cafes and Bakeries

  • The Coffee Shop on Psirri Street: A trendy cafe serving specialty coffee and delicious pastries.
  • Loumidis Cafe: Visit this cozy bakery for fresh bread and sweet treats.
  • Vardoulias Bakery: Indulge in traditional Greek sweets and baked goods.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Athens Backpackers Hostel: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.
  • Hostel Xenia: Enjoy a homey atmosphere and affordable prices at this family-run hostel.
  • Hotel Des Roses: This simple hotel offers comfortable rooms at an unbeatable price.

Mid-Range Options

  • Hotel Plaka: Stay in the heart of the Plaka neighborhood with stunning views of the Acropolis.
  • Hotel Hermes: Enjoy a boutique hotel experience with elegant rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • Hotel Nefeli: Treat yourself to a stylish hotel with modern amenities and a great location.

Luxury Options

  • The St. George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel: Indulge in luxury at this 5-star hotel with stunning views of the city.
  • The Grande Bretagne Hotel: Enjoy opulent rooms, excellent service, and a prime location.
  • Hotel Athenaeum: Savor a boutique hotel experience with elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.

Things to Know

Transportation

  • Metro: The metro is an efficient way to get around the city, with three lines (red, blue, and green) covering most areas.
  • Bus: Take buses for shorter journeys or when traveling between neighborhoods.
  • Taxis: Hail a taxi on the street or book in advance through a reputable company.

Safety

  • Petty Crime: Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
  • Traffic: Be careful crossing streets, especially at night or in areas with heavy traffic.
  • Demonstrations: Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place to avoid disruptions.

Tips

Respect Local Culture

  • Dress Modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting ancient sites or churches.
  • Remove Your Shoes: Take off your shoes before entering mosques, churches, or private homes.
  • Use Public Restrooms: Avoid using public restrooms unless absolutely necessary.

Save Time and Money

  • Buy a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket: Explore the city without worrying about traffic or parking.
  • Take Advantage of Discounts: Look for discounts on attractions and tours through websites like Groupon or Living Social.
  • Eat at Local Markets: Enjoy fresh produce and street food at affordable prices.

Other Things to Do

Shopping

  • Explore the Flea Market: Every Sunday, the streets are closed to traffic and transformed into a bustling flea market.
  • Visit the Monastiraki Street Market: Browse stalls selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
  • Shop at Local Markets: Visit markets like the Psirri Street Market or the Varvakio Market for unique finds.

Nightlife

  • Enjoy Live Music: Attend concerts and live music events at venues like the Acropolis Rock Club or the Athens Concert Hall.
  • Visit Bars and Clubs: Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, featuring everything from rooftop bars to dance clubs.
  • Take a Sunset Cruise: Watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea with a drink in hand.

Final Tips

Be Patient

  • Learn Some Greek Phrases: Impress locals by learning basic phrases like “Γεια σας” (Geia sas) for cheers or “Ευχαριστώ” (Efharistó) for thank you.
  • Take Your Time: Don’t rush; enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Bonus Tips

More Places to Visit

  • The Museum of Cycladic Art: Explore the history and art of the Cycladic Islands.
  • The Panathenaic Stadium Museum: Learn about the history of the Olympic Games and the stadium itself.
  • The Athens Observatory: Visit this historic observatory for stunning views of the city.

Final Words

Athens, the eternal city, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an ancient history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Athens has something to offer everyone. So come, stay awhile, and soak up the warm Greek hospitality.