Athens is loud, chaotic, and glorious. Before attempting to navigate this ancient metropolis, a proper caffeine fix is required. Greeks don’t mess around with coffee, and neither should you. Head to a kafeneio and order a freddo espresso—basically an iced espresso but ten times better. Sip it slowly while watching the organised chaos of Athenian traffic and wondering how no one has crashed yet. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, pair it with a koulouri, a sesame-coated bread ring that is essentially Greece’s version of a bagel but crispier and slightly addictive.
For a deeper coffee experience, visit one of Athens’ third-wave coffee spots, like Taf or Kudu, where baristas treat espresso like an art form. Try a freddo cappuccino if you want something with a bit of creaminess—it’s a game changer.
The Acropolis and the Art of Time Travel
If there’s one thing you must do in Athens, it’s ascend to the Acropolis. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. And yes, you will sweat. But standing beneath the Parthenon, with Athens sprawling in every direction, is worth every step. Wander around the ancient ruins, pretend you understand classical architecture, and let the weight of history sink in. It’s best to go early in the morning before the sun decides to punish everyone.
While there, take a moment to appreciate the smaller, often overlooked gems—the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Theatre of Dionysus, where Greek drama was practically invented. If you want to avoid the crowds, head to Areopagus Hill right next to the Acropolis for stunning views of the Parthenon without the ticket price.
Athens: Meandering Through Plaka and Anafiotika
After the Acropolis, Plaka is the perfect place to get lost. This is old Athens at its most picturesque—cobbled streets, colourful houses, and cats that seem to own the place. Walk uphill to Anafiotika, a tiny neighbourhood that looks like it belongs on a Cycladic island rather than in the middle of a city. Whitewashed houses, blue shutters, and an almost eerie silence make it feel like a well-kept secret. Sit at a tiny café, order a fresh orange juice, and bask in the calm before diving back into the madness.
Duck into tiny Byzantine-era churches scattered throughout the neighbourhood, some of which date back over a thousand years. If shopping is on the agenda, Plaka has an array of small artisan shops selling handmade jewellery, ceramics, and locally woven textiles. Perfect if you need a unique souvenir that isn’t a fridge magnet.
A Feast Fit for the Gods
Greek food is designed to make you eat past the point of reason, and you should absolutely lean into it. Find a taverna and start with a Greek salad (the feta is supposed to be a huge block, don’t question it), some saganaki (fried cheese, because of course), and a plate of dolmades. Then go for souvlaki or moussaka, depending on your level of commitment. Wash it all down with a carafe of house wine, because that’s just how things are done here.
For dessert, order loukoumades—golden, bite-sized doughnuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. If you still have space, ask for a plate of galaktoboureko, a creamy custard pie wrapped in crispy filo, and then accept that you’ll need a nap afterward.
Athens: Sunset at Lycabettus Hill
Athens has no shortage of epic views, but Lycabettus Hill wins purely because it makes you work for it. Climbing up takes some effort, but the reward is unbeatable—a panoramic view of the city bathed in golden light, with the Acropolis glowing in the distance. If climbing feels like too much work (fair), there’s a funicular that will whisk you to the top. Either way, order a drink at the café, sit back, and watch as Athens transforms under the setting sun.
For an alternative sunset spot, Filopappou Hill offers equally stunning views with fewer tourists. It’s also the best place to snap that perfect Acropolis photo without 100 selfie sticks blocking the shot.
A Night Out in Psiri
Athens comes alive at night, and Psiri is where you want to be. The once-gritty neighbourhood is now packed with lively bars, street art, and an almost electric atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a rooftop cocktail, or a casual ouzo at a tiny taverna, this place delivers. Try Brettos Bar for a vintage drinking experience or head to Six d.o.g.s for a more alternative crowd. Either way, expect to be out late—Athens doesn’t sleep early.
For something truly Greek, find a rembetiko bar—these tavernas play old-school Greek blues music, usually accompanied by passionate singing, strong drinks, and a whole lot of atmosphere.
A Slow Start and a Legendary Breakfast in Athens
A proper Greek breakfast doesn’t involve eggs and bacon—it’s all about pies. Find a bakery and order a spanakopita (spinach and feta pie) or a bougatsa (custard-filled pastry sent from the gods). Pair it with a strong Greek coffee and take your time. If you need something a bit more extravagant, look for a café serving koulouri, a sesame-coated bread ring that pairs beautifully with a second coffee.
For a sit-down experience, head to a café in Koukaki or Exarchia, where you’ll find shakshuka-style eggs served with warm bread or plates of yoghurt topped with walnuts and thick honey.
Exploring the Ancient Agora and Monastiraki
The Ancient Agora was the heart of Athens in its heyday—a buzzing marketplace where Socrates probably judged people’s opinions. Today, it’s a mix of ruins and greenery, perfect for strolling while contemplating deep philosophical thoughts (or what to eat next). From here, wander over to Monastiraki, the flea market district where you can find everything from antiques to questionable knock-off sunglasses. Barter if you dare, but know that the shop owners have been at this game far longer than you have.
Stop by Hadrian’s Library and the Roman Agora while you’re in the area—smaller but equally impressive ruins that showcase Athens’ multi-layered history.
One Last Greek Feast Before Goodbye
Before leaving Athens, there’s time for one last meal, and it has to be epic. Find a seaside taverna in Piraeus and order seafood like it’s your last day on earth. Grilled octopus, fresh calamari, a plate of garides saganaki (prawns in tomato sauce with feta)—it’s all mandatory. Pair it with a chilled glass of ouzo, toast to 48 hours well spent, and start plotting your inevitable return to Athens.
For a different kind of farewell meal, head to a rooftop restaurant near Syntagma Square for a final view of the illuminated Acropolis—because no matter how long you stay, it’s never quite enough.
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