Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. We spent two full days (three nights) exploring Athens and getting acclimated to the time zone. Following Athens, we took the 8:20am train from Athens Central Station to visit Meteora near Kalambaka.
Getting Around Athens
Within Athens, you can travel via city buses, electric trolley-buses, metro, tram, and the suburban railway. If you need directions to and from the Airport, Piraeus (Port), and/or Downtown Athens, review travel information on the Athens Transport website! This site provides a lot of useful information regarding transportation in and around Athens.
Where to Stay?
We stayed approximately 15 min walking distance to the Syntagma station. It was a good location, though we walked approximately 8 miles each day. If you would prefer to do a little less walking, I would recommend staying in a hotel/AirBnB/hostel closer (but might be slightly more expensive).
We stayed in Athens for three nights before we headed to Meteora and one night after Meteora (before we went to catch the ferry to Santorini). Our AirBnB was near the Akropoli Metro Station. Since our ferry was departing at 7:20am from Piraeus, we decided to take a taxi to the port instead of the metro because the metro would require two transfers before getting onto the green line to Piraeus. We didn’t want to risk missing the ferry so we opted for the taxi. If you are planning to depart on an early ferry to the islands, I would recommend having your stay in Athens (the night before the ferry) somewhere on the green line or closer to the port. NOTE: The taxi cost us 10 Euro. For tips on using the ferry and Santorini, visit my Santorini post!
Things to See
(1) Acropolis of Athens: Also known as “The Acropolis” is from the Greek words ἄκρον (akron, “highest point, extremity”) and πόλις (polis, “city”). It was an ancient citadel located in Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Go early or prior to closing as this site is extremely busy with tourists and school groups.
(2) Monastiraki Flea Market: If you want to look for some cheap souvenirs: postcards, olive wood objects, soaps, olive oil, Greek sandals, miscellaneous items this would be the place for you.
(3) Lycabettus Hill: A very popular place to watch the sunset! You will not be watching it alone. It requires a “slight” hike to get to the top, but well worth it. Bring a bottle of wine and snacks with you and enjoy the sunset.
Places to Eat
(1) To Maupo Provato Press Cafe (Arrianou 31): This place was recommended by our AirBnB host. It was so good we decided to return for a second time! It is recommended to make a reservation, however if you come at irregular European eating hours you might be able to get a table without a reservation. Bread, tomato spread, and a shot of ouzo are served as complimentary apéritifs. We ordered the seafood pasta and it was delicious!
(2) Mani Mani (Falirou 10): If you’re looking for a fancy dinner, I’d recommend this place.
(3) Avocado (Nikis 30): If you are in need of vegan and/or vegetarian options, Avocado is the place for you. They use all organic and locally produced products.
(4) Tzitzikas kai Mermigas (Mitropoleos 12): Classic mezze and Mediterranean cuisine.
(5) Diporto (Sokratous 9): Greek Restaurant with only a daily menu that changes frequently.
Places to Shop
(1) Forget Me Not (Adrianou 100): Local artists selling handmade goods.
(2) The Apivita Experience Store (Solonos 6): All natural made-in-Greece cosmetics store. I love their face masks and they serve as great “made-in-Greece” souvenirs! You can purchase their products at multiple locations but if you want to visit their flagship store I would go here.
(3) Korres Natural Products (Ermou 4): All natural “made-in-Greece” cosmetics store.
(4) Monastiraki Flea Market
I’ve mapped all of my favorite restaurants, places to stay, and places to shop on Google Maps! See Greece 2018 Google Map pins! Happy travels. 🙂
