I’ve always been a little bit of a nerd for Greek + Roman culture so visiting Italy + Greece have always been on my travel bucket list. I’ve traveled all over Italy but had never been to Greece, so I was SO excited when one of my friends Megan, who was coming out to visit me in Budapest, suggested a little trip to Athens.
I honestly cant explain HOW amazing the trip was. I think we both fell in love with Athens almost immediately. The views, the history, the food. So much goodness.
Buckle your seatbelts because this post is going to be jam-packed with everything you NEED to do on your trip.
EXPLORE
PLAKA
Probably one of my favorite things to do in Athens was to aimlessly wander the streets. The hillside Plaka neighborhood is right next to the Acropolis and is filled with the cutest restaurants and shops. Within Plaka is the Anafiotika neighborhood, full of whitewashed homes and tiny streets to get lost on. Definitely gives off some Greek-island vibes even though it’s in the middle of the city.
PANATHENAIC STADIUM
The Panathenaic Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium and the only one in the world made entirely of marble. It originally hosted the Panathenaic Games AND was the home to the first modern Olympics. It was so much fun to walk around the track and climb to the top of the stadium, but prepare yourself, the steps are incredibly steep
PHILOPAPPOS HILL
For a stunning view of the Acropolis and the entire city, take a walk up Philopappos Hill.
ACROPOLIS + PARTHENON
Of course the most famous landmark of Athens is the Acropolis, an ancient citadel located above the city of Athens. You’ll find the remains of several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon. I recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds and the heat.
EVEN MORE
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Monastiraki Square + Flea Market (I personally preferred the shopping in Plaka, but the square is beautiful).
And a few we didn’t make it to (this time around):
• Acropolis Museum
• Lycabettus Hill
• Piraeus Port
• Temple of Poseidon
• A trip to one of the nearby Greek islands.
FOOD + RESTAURANT GUIDE
There’s SO much to try, and everything was so delicious, but here were some of my absolute favorites:
• Baked Feta + Fresh Pita
• Moussaka
• Greek Yogurt + Honey
• Retsina Wine
• Mastic Liqueur
Honestly, I think you could walk into just about any restaurant, and you wouldn’t be disappointed, but here are some that we tried and loved:
For great rooftop views + drinks:
A is for Athens or Point A
For some fresh seafood and an ocean view:
Zorbas
In the heart of Plaka try:
Kosmikon Restaurant (their baked feta is to die for!)
Grab some Greek coffee, yogurt, and honey for breakfast at:
Chandelier Plaka
Take an afternoon break, and try a Mastic Mohito at:
Cafe Plaka (another relaxing rooftop)
Sweet Tooth? Try a lemon tart at:
The Pie Shop
TIPS
- Wear shoes with good traction, especially when visiting the Acropolis and the Panathenaic Stadium as the marble is very slippery!
- If you visit during the summer, prepare for the heat and stay hydrated.
- Have cash (euros) on hand for shopping, taxis, and the occasional meal.
If you ever have the chance to visit, I hope you love it as much as I did. I absolutely cant wait to visit again (especially to do some Greek island hopping). If you’ve ever been to Athens (or anywhere in Greece), what were your thoughts? And if you haven’t, have you started planning your trip yet??
– Courtney
PS – Zack + I have just under 3 months left in our time abroad, and I’m cramming in a few more trips, so be sure to follow along on my instagram if you want to keep up with my daily adventures. This weekend: Berlin, Germany!
Restaurant Links:
A is for Athens // Point A // Zorbas
Kosmikon Restaurant // Chandelier Plaka
Cafe Plaka // The Pie Shop
hardys on holiday 
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