Ela Nostos

Acropolis, landmark

So: “acropolis” refers to the fortified hill. Sitting on and around this hill are several sites, including the Parthenon (most iconic), but there’s also the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus. Raph’s recc: if you have an EU ID – entrance is normally half price (if I remember correctly)

Acropolis museum, landmark

If it’s your first time, or you love history, the Acropolis Museum is actually incredible to visit – it gives so much insight to the landmarks and artefacts, while also presented in an ultra modern space. Raph’s recc: apart from the giant glass windows that look towards the Parthenon, there is also a rooftop terrace that make for great views too. It’s also air conditioned (!!)

Monastiraki, square

Located in the center of Athens, the bustling square is just a great place to people watch or to enjoy some fresh food from one of the stalls as you look onto the Parthenon. Just be mindful of pickpocketing. Raph’s recc: the food stalls often have some of the best seasonal fruit (I remember paying 99c for a kilo of cherries), roasted hazelnuts, koulourakia (greek biscuits) and charred corn – it’s great to try or take as a snack for the road.

Panagia Kapnikarea, church

Located on Ermou Street in Plaka, you’ll find one of the oldest churches in Athens. Built in the 11th century, this church is nestled amongst the stores, as the city of grew up around it. Raph’s recc: if the church is open, a custom is to light a candle in the church and say prayers (for one’s self l or loved ones). This isn’t compulsory, and quite a simplified explanation for the custom but sharing for those that curious about greek orthodox customs.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, monument

In Syntagma Square near the Hellenic Parliament Building, you’ll see the war memorial. The tomb is guarded by an Evzone soldier dressed in traditional uniform and every hour there is a changing of the guard (see video). But apparently 11 am on Sunday shows a group of soldiers marching to the tomb. Raph’s recc: often great to watch while you’re missioning between shops and foodie stops.

O Thanassis, restaurant

The best gyro in Syntagma – a great place to grab a pita while shopping the streets of Athens, or to sit down and people watch (if there isn’t a soccer game on). Raph’s recc: order a greek salad, a portion of chips and a side of tzatziki, along with pork gyro (either in a pita or as a portion (known as a ‘meritha’).

Le Greche, gelato

The best gelato in Syntagma – amongst the delicious flavours and scoops to try, they also have gluten free cones (which is a BIG DEAL!!). Raph’s recc: pistachio and hazelnut gelato in a cone!

360 Cocktail, rooftop bar

Athens is dotted with many rooftop bars, and a lot of the city’s hotels offer free access to their own, like Athens Cypria hotel. With that being said, there’s no single bar I’ve visited repeatedly but 360 Cocktail is well known – and for good reason – as it boasts incredible views over the square and acropolis. Here are some other rooftop bars ro consider: * A for Athens * Attic Urban Rooftop (has swings on the terrace) * Anglais Athens Raph’s recc: if you are staying near Syntagma / Monastiraki, ask your hotel if they have a rooftop. More often than not, they have a terrace with beautiful views and the accommodation normally comes with a discount or voucher to enjoy the rooftop bar too.

Little Kook, sweet spot

Tucked away on a side street in the Psiri neighborhood, you’ll find Little Kook. The cafe has ever-changing seasonal themes, decking out the passage and store fronts with all kind of decor and costumes. When we visited, the theme was ‘Alice in Wonderland’ (one of my favourite classics!) and the brightly coloured strip really came out of no where! Raph’s recc: even if you aren’t in the mood for their sweet treats (famous for their crepes), it’s a taste of Disney nostalgia in the middle of a bustling Athens.

Attica, outlet / department store

For the shopperholics, Syntagma and Monasteraki are great places to find beautiful boutiques and stores. But for those looking for a ‘branded bargain’, Attica has floors worthy of discounted items and even has little coffee shops. Raph’s recc: if you are going to buy over €50, remember to ask the cashier for a tax-free slip so you can claim back the tax on your departure (at the airport) but remember to keep the clothing tags.

Shopping, areas and hours

If you’re pressed for time and staying in the central part of Athens, Ermou Street has a plethora of chain stores and boutiques, with summer sales starting from about mid-July. You can also fin markets and second hand stores along Plaka’s streets and through Monastiraki.

If you’re a backgammon fan, the Manopoulos store is close to Attica (Voulis 21) and has many beautiful boards – if you’re feeling risky, you can negotiate with the owner to play him a few rounds of tavli for a discount.

If you’ve got more time or visiting the ‘Riviera’, heading into Glyfada (with the tram) is a great alternative and is less touristy, with similar stores to the center of Athens.

Opening hours:
Store hours are not the same for each town. In the city centers, the usual hours are continuous (09:00 – 21:00), but generally closed on Sundays.
In the suburbs, the working hours are split into shifts:
Tues | Thurs | Fri: open 09:00-14:30 and 17:30-20:30
Mon | Wed | Sat: only open 09:00-15:00 Sun: closed all day

Athens Riviera

If you have more time to spend in Athens, here are some of the coastal gems found in Glyfada (Voula and Vouliagmeni) – easily accessed with the trams or taxi:

Aqua Marina, cafenio with kaïmaki

Located close to the Vouliagmeni promenade is an old cafe – many call it an ‘institution’ for its timelessness. Whether you’re leaving the beach and looking for that afternoon recalibration or looking for an after dinner spot, Aqua Marina is your best bet. Raph’s recc: a great place to order a greek coffee (elliniko cafe) and a kaimaki (a masticha flavoured stringey ice cream).

Tylixto, gyro

Again, if you’re in Vouliagmeni and looking for a bite to eat, Tylixto (or Toni’s) is a great place to grab a gyro. Raph’s recc: order the gyro ‘xoris patates’ (without chips inside) and order a separate portion for the table, and (as always) order extra tzatziki.

Εllados Eikones, bouzoukia

I went here a while ago but for those looking for bouzoukia (greek live concerts), this was an incredible place to listen to the music and dance. Raph’s recc: call before hand and ask for the upcoming dates, and remember to book a table.

Krabo, beach and bar

Admittedly, Greece’s best beaches are not in the city, hut if you do have some time in Athens, the areas Voula and Vouligameni have some nice ‘organized’ beaches. Krabo is very modern and has great food, the beach is quite small and expensive to get a bed (compulsory) but it’s a cool way to enjoy the day. Raph’s recc: grab one of the bean bags instead or the bed (cheaper), and order a frappé if you’re only wanting to stay a short while.

Balux, beach

Again, this is another ‘organized’ beach, but a lot bigger than Krabo. Raph’s recc: if you’re doing a long day at the beach, head over early and claim the beds you would like – kick back and relax for the rest of the day.

Island hopping, day-trip

The Saronic islands sit just off the mainland and Peloponnese peninsula – they’re known for their beaches and ancient ruins, and are a popular day-trip / weekend destination.

A great city escape is Aegina, the island of pistachios, home to the Agios Nektarios church, and a local’s favourite:
* trip duration: ferry is <60min
* ticket fare: <€10 pp from Piraeus