Athens History, Food and Chill 🇬🇷

Start early at the Acropolis. Go slowly, enjoy the views over Athens, visit the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Theatre of Dionysus, and Odeon of Herodes Atticus. All of these sit on the Acropolis.

Walk down to the Ancient Agora next. This is best enjoyed by wandering, not rushing. Imagine it as the old civic centre, full of trade, politics and conversation.

The Temple of Hephaestus is a real highlight. It is beautifully preserved and calmer than the Acropolis. Sit nearby if you can and take in the setting. There are some incredible buildings and things to see in this area.

Continue through Plaka or Anafiotika towards the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Look for quiet lanes, old churches, cafés and glimpses of ruins.

At the Temple of Zeus, enjoy the huge scale of the remaining columns and nearby Hadrian’s Arch.

Finish at the Panathenaic Stadium. Set a personal best running a lap then climb the seats for the best view. Walk through the tunnel for the museum.

Public transport: Metro Line 2 to Elliniko, then bus 122 towards Vouliagmeni. Get off near Lake Vouliagmeni.

Or taxi / Uber is easy.

Go early morning for calmer water, fewer people and the best spots to relax. Swim slowly, float in the warm mineral water and enjoy the cliffs and peaceful atmosphere around the lake.

Bring swimwear, a towel, flip flops, sunglasses and water. Stay for coffee or lunch beside the lake rather than rushing off after swimming.

If you have extra time afterwards, walk towards the coast for sea views or stop in Vouliagmeni town for a relaxed meal or drink.

2 options for Mount Lycabettus. Take the metro to Evangelismos, then walk uphill towards the Lycabettus funicular station. From there, either take the funicular up or continue walking to the summit.

For a more scenic approach, walk up through Kolonaki and the pine covered paths. Wear comfortable shoes, as parts are steep.

Go for sunset if you can. Arrive early enough to avoid rushing and watch Athens turn golden, then slowly light up after dark.

At the top, enjoy the view of the Acropolis, the sea, the Panathenaic Stadium and the whole city spread below.

Bring water, sunglasses and a light layer if staying after sunset. The summit can feel breezy.

Afterwards, walk down to Kolonaki for dinner, coffee or drinks.

Take the tram from Syntagma towards the coast and get off at Kalamaki. From there it is a short walk to Bolivar Beach Club. A taxi or Uber from central Athens is also easy and usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

The vibe is lively, social and beach club focused rather than quiet or traditional. Expect DJs, cocktails, sunbeds, swimming, sunset music and people staying into the evening.

Go in the late afternoon for the best atmosphere. Swim first, relax by the beach, then stay for sunset drinks and music as the energy builds into the night.

Astir Beach is more peaceful, organised and scenic, with clear water, comfortable loungers and a quieter crowd. It feels polished and relaxed rather than party focused.

Kavouri Beach is another good option. Parts are free, there are pine trees for shade, and the vibe is local and laid back. Good for swimming and spending a slow afternoon.

Yabanaki Beach at Varkiza is relaxed during weekdays, especially earlier in the day. It has cafés, sunbeds and calm swimming areas.

Go in the morning or late afternoon for softer light, cooler temperatures and fewer people. Bring water, sunscreen and beach shoes, as some areas are pebbly.

11am - Watch the changing of the guard at the old royal palace.

Next door is the National Gardens. Look for the duck, turtle and koi fish ponds! 🐢