ATHENES - Que voir et faire ?

ATHENS - What to see and do?

Are you planning a trip to Athens? Here are a few tips and recommendations for your journey to the Greek capital.

 

Where to stay? 

  • Pláka: This is the oldest and most picturesque neighborhood, located at the foot of the Acropolis. With its cobblestone streets and flowery houses, it is the most charming spot, although very touristy. Ideal for getting around on foot.

  • Koukaki: A very trendy neighborhood, it is located just south of the Acropolis. It is a quiet residential area, filled with local cafes, bistros, and art galleries, offering a more authentic vibe.

  • Psirí / Monastiráki: If you like to be at the heart of the action. Psirí is the neighborhood for nightlife, craft bars, and street art.

  • Kolonáki: The chic and upscale neighborhood of Athens. Located at the foot of Mount Lycabettus, you will find designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and bars here.

 

Despina Galani - Unsplash

 

 

How to get around? 

  • The Metro: It connects the city's key points and extends to Piraeus. Some stations, like Syntagma or Acropoli, are true open-air museums, displaying ancient ruins unearthed during the excavations necessary for its construction.

  • Walking: The historic center has a large pedestrian zone that connects the main archaeological sites. It is the best way to discover hidden corners.

  • Taxis / Uber: Yellow taxis are everywhere and very affordable compared to other European capitals. Note that Uber in Athens mainly calls official taxis.

  • The Tram: Ideal if you want to leave the center to reach the coast and enjoy the beaches of Glyfada or Voula.

 

Andrea Leopardi - Unsplash 

 

 

What to see? 

  • The Acropolis: Climb to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the city and visit the various monuments showcasing the architectural and engineering qualities of the ancient Greeks.

  • The Parthenon: The most famous building on the Acropolis, this temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena was once the symbol of Athenian power.
    Tip: Go right at opening (8 AM) or two hours before closing to avoid the crowds and heat, especially in the middle of summer.

  • The Acropolis Museum: A modern architectural masterpiece that houses the treasures found on the sacred rock. The glass floor allows you to see the ruins beneath your feet.

  • The Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimármaro): A stadium unique in the world, built entirely of white marble. It was here that the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

  • Mount Lycabettus: The highest point in Athens. Take the funicular or walk up for a breathtaking sunset over the entire city and the sea.

  • The Changing of the Guard (Syntagma): In front of Parliament, watch the Evzones in traditional costume perform their rotation every hour.

  • Anafiótika: A micro-neighborhood hidden in Pláka with white houses and blue shutters that will make you feel like you are on a Cycladic island.

  • Saronic Islands: Take a day or two to escape Athens and reach the Saronic Islands (Angistri, Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Salamis), easily accessible from the port of Piraeus. These islands make for an ideal getaway to catch your breath far from the bustle of the capital.

 

Enric Domas - Unsplash 

 

 

What about sports? 

  • Football: The three big clubs are Olympiacos (based in Piraeus), Panathinaikos, and AEK Athens. The atmosphere in the stadiums is known for being among the most intense in Europe.

  • Basketball: Greece is a basketball country. The duels between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos in the EuroLeague are legendary and electric.

  • The Athens Marathon: The "authentic" route that starts from the town of Marathon and ends in the Panathenaic Stadium, every year in November.

 

Dmitri Limonov - Pexels

 

 

After all that, where should we go out, what should we eat? 

Where to eat

  • Souvláki & Gýros: The Greek fast food par excellence. For a few euros, enjoy a pita stuffed with grilled meat, tzatziki, tomatoes, and fries.
  • Mezédēs: The concept is to share several small dishes (grilled octopus, Greek salad, baked feta, dolmades). Pair it all with a glass of Ouzo (anise-flavored alcoholic drink) or Tsípouro (pomace brandy).

  • Traditional Tavernas: Look for places where the menus are simple. Try the Moussaka or the Pastítsio (pasta and meat gratin).

  • The Central Market (Varvakios): A fascinating organized chaos for buying olives, spices, or eating in small canteens hidden among the butcher stalls.

 

Where to go out

  • Bars with a view (Rooftops): Having a drink facing the illuminated Acropolis is a "must." The Olympias Athinas or the 360 Cocktail Bar offer stunning views of the Acropolis.

  • Exárcheia: Here you will find cafes, rock bars, and a very student-friendly atmosphere.

  • Open-air cinema: An Athenian tradition in the summer. Cine Paris in Pláka allows you to watch a movie under the stars with a view of the Parthenon.

 

Leonhard Niederwimmer - Unsplash
1st image - Mert Erbil - Unsplash
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