We’ve covered Las Vegas in the last article, but now lets travel across the world to Athens, Greece! Besides welcoming you to a unique language, Athens has stunning ruins, delicious food, and cats of all types and colors. I’ll cover must-see attractions, optional day trips to places like Meteora, and other travel tips.
Attractions
- Monastiraki
The first stop on our trip was Monastiraki square — a central area connecting to various shops, ruins, and more. Though initially underwhelming in the afternoon, it becomes more lively in the evening with more pedestrian traffic. Close by you have Hadrian’s Library, Plaka neighborhood, and Ermou street where you can stroll and shop.
- Plaka
This neighborhood has cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of restaurants. Though it was quiet and calm in the afternoon, many restaurants have live music in the evening if you’re interested. If you enjoy sightseeing, I recommend visiting Anafiotika, a smaller neighborhood with an island-style atmosphere. Plan your walking route by reading blogs or watching YouTube videos like these: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQNrD_PfbHo
- Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora is a 30-acre outdoor archaeological site that originally served as a meeting ground for citizens. Though I personally haven’t visited the site, you can see fractions of it outside the fence that stretches across the perimeter. If you plan to add this to your trip list, try to learn a little bit about the structures online for a fuller experience.
- Hadrian’s Library
Walking distance from Monstiraki square, Hadrian’s Library is a structure built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in AD 132. Similar to the Ancient Agora, we didn’t enter the premises but had a great view from outside the fence. If you like cats, I challenge you to try to spot some roaming around in the area!
- Roman Agora
Don’t mistake the Roman Agora for the Ancient Agora! The Roman Agora includes the Gate of Athena Archegetis and the Tower of the Winds. We didn’t enter the site but it’s good to know that this area is typically quiet and not too busy.
- Philopappou Hill
There are two hills that are easy to spot: Philopappou Hill and Lycabettus Hill. The highest point in Central Athens is at the summit of Mount Lycabettus, 277 meters above sea level. Philopappou hill has a small beige structure and the hike up is not too long. There is an amazing 360-degree view including the city, Acropolis, and the Saronic Gulf.
- Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis was at the center of our plan; though, there was some uncertainty on when we would visit and how to get tickets for the morning. Buying tickets online is the most common method but we choose to arrive before opening and buy tickets at the office for the 8am slot. The heat wasn’t extreme and we noticed that it wasn’t until the end of our visit, around 9am, that traffic picked up and more tour groups entered.
- Arch of Hadrian
After seeing many other arches, this one wasn’t any more interesting than the others. Given that it was along the way, we still made a quick stop before heading to the Temple of Olympian Zeus next door.
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
Once a large temple, today only a few columns remain and the structure is undergoing restoration and remodeling. The scenery isn’t very exciting, especially given ongoing construction, so we decided to not buy any tickets.
- Panathenaic Stadium
As the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble, this structure is stunning regardless of whether or not you’re a sport enthusiast. A handful of people were walking and running the track at the time we visited.
- Athens National Garden & Zappeion Park
Zappeion Park includes fountains and pathways leading up to Zappeio Hall. You can find Athens National Garden by walking around to the back of the building and finding one of the park entrances after crossing a short road. We didn’t explore the entire park, but it was a great place to cool down. I recommend visiting the turtle pond within the park!
- Monument of Unknown Soldier
From April 1st to September 30th, you can catch the changing of the elite Greek Presidential guards, known as Evzones, every half hour. We didn’t have the chance to visit, but I recommend checking out what it looks like online. You can also decide whether you want to stroll around Syntagma Square as well.
Day Trips
- Go to a beach on the Athens Riviera coast
If you’re staying in Athens for more than a couple days, head south to the coast for half a day or a full day. We visited Paralia Edem beach for free which included parking on the beach and shade provided by the trees. There are restaurants on the beach and sunbeds available for renting. You can also visit the many other beaches along the coast and stop by the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion at sunset for a stunning view.
- Drive north to Meteora
Meteora, a site famous for its monasteries built on rock pillars, is roughly 3.5 hours away from Athens. Some downsides with visiting is that the location is far away and many monasteries are somewhat similar. We visited The Great Meteoron, Varlaam, and passed by the Holy Trinity. I recommend deciding ahead of time which monasteries you plan to visit, whether you want to hike or drive, and preparing appropriate attire.
- Optional Stop: Delphi
Delphi is an ancient sanctuary that includes various ruins. Saving some time for Athens, we choose to skip Delphi which is on the way to and from Meteora. Consider adding this spot to your plans if you have the time.
Tips
- Consider making a spreadsheet itinerary to organize your trip effectively
- Download offline maps and use google pins to mark down attractions, food spots, etc.
- Rent a car if you’re planning a day trip to somewhere like Meteora — or book a group tour if you prefer
- Wear comfortable shoes, drink water, and apply sunscreen regularly, especially on the beach
- Visit attractions early to beat the heat and crowds
- Use hotel safes to hold valuables
- Have cash on hand for payments such as for gas and/or bathrooms
- Be prepared to pay for any bread or water you’re given at a restaurant prior to your meal
- Have patience — it’s common that locals in Greece will take their time and won’t rush things
Bloggers and YouTubers — like https://www.youtube.com/@GreeceExplained — are some of the best sources to use when planning your trip! Depending on the duration of your trip, you may find that Athens doesn’t offer as many attractions as you think. If you plan to stay longer than two or three days, definitely prepare for a day trip or some smaller experiences within Athens. Happy travelling!
