This might not be the first post that you’ll see out there about why you shouldn’t skip Athens and I really (wholeheartedly) wanted to also contribute to that message. Our first Greek adventure started in Athens and with no expectations, I fell in love with this city! Rolling through Athens streets, we witnessed a mix of history and edginess, grunge and grace that is to remember. The true Greek experience is to really see the edginess of this country, interact with its people, eat their delicious food and appreciate each city for what it is or for what it was.

We spent three days in Athens and could’ve easily stayed for five days, at the minimum. A city as busy as Athens, you can still find moments of calmness in its alleyways, small beautiful cafe bars where you’ll find people gathered, singing Greek songs, smoking and playing the guitar. Come across locals who are on their way to work or back or immigrants lining up at the social service center. The warmth of Greek people is felt throughout the city and through its midday heat (haha).

Here are some of our highlights and for your consideration on your next stay in Athens 😉

• Athens Walking Tour: Highly recommend a walking tour, there is so much to learn and so many hidden pockets in Athens that are worth discovering.
• Acropolis: One of the most significant ancient sites in the world. The Acropolis crowned by the Parthenon and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. Obviously a must!
• Acropolis Museum: Just like you shouldn’t skip Athens, you shouldn’t skip this museum. It houses the surviving treasures from the Archaic to the Roman period; a dazzling museum with ruins visible through floor and ceiling windows. Also, their fine museum shop and restaurant have superb views not to miss :).
• Plaka neighbourhood: It is one of the oldest settlements in Europe. This neighbourhood offers narrow charming alleyways, beautiful shops, temples along the way, and rooftop restaurants. Try to find Anafiotika, it is a tiny settlement where a lush scenery meets quaint white houses ( almost like a mini version of Santorini ). Next time we are in Athens we will definitely stay around the Plaka area.
• Cine Paris: If you’re like me who wouldn’t go to the movies while on vacation then you might want to bend that rule while in Greece. They have beautiful setting cinemas. A great way to end your evening and watch some classics. Cine Paris was built by a Greek hairdresser who lived in Paris. This rooftop cinema is a magical place in Plaka with astonishing views of the Acropolis from your seat (Whaaa!).
• Cape Sounion: There is so much to see around Athens (and within two hours bus ride) and so I chose this destination as a surprise date. We indulged a delicious meal near the Aegeon Beach Hotel, went for a pre-sunset swim and enjoyed a breathtaking sunset at the Poseidon Temple.
• Athen’s Central Market: Where Athenians have been choosing their daily stock of meat, fish, cheese, fruit, and vegetables for centuries. An incredible and overwhelming food scene.
• Ermou Street: If you’re into shopping then you might want to tell your spouse/partner to meet you in a few hours because Ermou street is where it’s at. 😉

XO Dalia

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