Athens, Greece Travel Guide
- Raquel Nakila
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
I have always been drawn to Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, because of its fascinating history, lively culture, and indisputable charm. The city has a distinct ambiance that is awe inspiring because of the seamless coexistence of the ancient and modern cultures.
But Athens isn’t just about its history. I have been dreaming of wandering in the winding streets of Plaka, the city's oldest neighborhood, where I imagine the wonderful aromas of street food. I could not wait to sample a freshly made souvlaki or the sweet custard bougatsa. This trip has been a long time coming.
Getting there:
Direct flights are available from major London airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). The flight duration is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Airlines like British Airways, Aegean Airlines, and budget carriers such as Easyjet, Ryanair and Wizz Air frequently operate on this route. We flew with Easyjet on this trip.
Getting around:
The Athens Metro is modern, efficient, and easy to navigate. With three lines covering the city and extending to the Athens International Airport and Piraeus port, it’s a quick way to access major attractions such as Syntagma Square, the Acropolis, and Monastiraki.
Athens has a network of buses and trams that connect most neighborhoods. These are a cost-effective way to travel, especially to areas not served by the metro.
Our hotel was well situated and within a walking radius of top tourist attractions, so we mostly walked, apart from our way from the airport to the city centre and back.
Currency:
The currency used in Athens, and across Greece, is the Euro (€). It has been the official currency of Greece since 2001, when the country joined the Eurozone.
When to visit:
Athens is a city that can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to early November). These seasons offer mild, pleasant weather that is ideal for exploring the city without the sweltering summer heat or the winter chill.
We went in mid-February, and the weather was a mix; one day it was hot and sunny for sleeveless clothes, then the next day still mild enough for a cardigan, and our last day, it was cold enough that we had to pull out our winter jackets from our luggage.
Where to stay:
We stayed at the luxurious 5-star Electra Metropolis Hotel in the heart of Athens. This hotel is a blend of modern luxury and classical charm.
I love the hotel lobby's sky-lit atrium, which provides a distinct architectural flair. We also loved and always looked forward to our daily breakfasts at the rooftop restaurant, which boasts stunning views of the historic Acropolis—a sight that truly captures the soul of Athens.
Located just a short stroll from Syntagma Square and the bustling Plaka district, it provides easy access to Athens' top attractions, including the Parthenon and the National Garden.
Where to eat:
Athens has a vibrant dining scene, so you're sure to find something that suits your taste.
Taverna Klimataria is a hidden gem in the heart of Athens, offering an authentic taste of Greek culture and cuisine. Located in Theatrou Square, this traditional tavern has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over 70 years. From the menu, we ordered tasty slow-cooked lamb, tender grilled pork, and surprisingly delicious Zucchini croquettes served with freshly made Tzatziki.
Tylixto Souvlaki is a must-visit spot in Athens for anyone craving a taste of authentic Greek street food. This was our first stop after we landed. Located in the vibrant Monastiraki area, this eatery has gained a reputation for serving some of the best souvlaki in the city and after eating it twice on this trip, I can attest to that.
Lukumades: If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to be. Famous for their heavenly Greek doughnuts, Lukumades offers a twist to this traditional Greek dessert by adding a variety of toppings and fillings that will leave you craving more. We ordered a serving of the ones with chocolate and hazelnut filling and another serving with pistachio toppings. This was the perfect dessert on the trip.
Top Things To Do
01. The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis of Athens is a magnificent icon of ancient Greek culture, perched atop a rocky hill and dominating the city skyline. At the heart of the Acropolis lies the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. Nearby, the Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatids—sculpted female figures serving as columns- adds to the site’s appeal. The Acropolis Museum nearby is the most notable museum near the Acropolis. This modern museum showcases original artifacts and monuments discovered during excavations in the Acropolis area.
02. Plaka Neighbourhood
Stroll around Plaka's lovely streets, the oldest district in Athens. Known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," Plaka is filled with quaint shops, traditional tavernas, and colorful architecture that transport you to another era.
03. Ancient Agora/ Stoa of Attalos
Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, this sprawling complex served as the center of civic, social, and economic activity in the city during classical times. Walking through the Ancient Agora is like stepping back in time. The ruins reveal the layout of ancient Athens, with remnants of shops, fountains, and public spaces that once bustled with activity. The site's museum, located in the Stoa of Attalos, offers fascinating artifacts and insights into the daily lives of Athenians, from pottery and coins to statues and tools.
Day Trip to...
Piraeus
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