Athens

2 days in Athens

12 Nov 2023

Day One

Start your day early in Syntagma Square. See the changing of the guard in front of the House of Parliament (on the hour) and walk along Amalias Avenue. Enter the National Gardens, pass Zappeion and head towards the Panathenaic Stadium.

Walk down Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, pass Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus and cross to Plaka. Allow yourself to wander around its picturesque meandering streets and stop for a coffee at one of the numerous cafés. Walk along pedestrianised Dionisiou Areopagitou street, climb the Acropolis hill and enjoy the pride of western civilisation.

Once you’re done with the sacred rock head to the new Acropolis Museum before you stop for a late lunch-Greek style somewhere around Thissio station. Afternoon is time to visit Kerameikos with its ancient cemetery, the Ancient Agora and the bustling and quaint Monastiraki Flea Market. Have an aperitif at nearby Psirri district and round off the evening with a late dinner accompanied by live Greek music, or head to Gazi where you can combine dinner with late drinks.

Day Two

Begin early in the day at the top end of Ploutarchou Street in Kolonaki, from where you will board the scenic funicular (runs every half hour) or walk the lovely pine-lined pedestrianised path up Lycabettus hill (about 300m). Take in the breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the panorama of Athens and the Saronic Gulf sprawled at your feet. Seize the opportunity to visit the historic white-washed church of Saint George crowning the hill before taking the funicular back down.

Make your way to Panepistimio station and board the metro to Victoria, from where you will cross to the National Archaeological Museum. Allow at least two hours for your visit, before stopping for light lunch at the Museum restaurant or at one of the numerous bohemian establishments lining alternative Exarchia Square.

Board the metro to Syntagma station, where you will change to the Tram that will take you down to Athens’ southern coastal suburbs. Enjoy your leisurely ride, taking in the golden sea views along the way. Get off at ‘Parko Flisvou’ stop in Paleo Faliro and walk along the seaside palm-lined esplanade, stopping off for a coffee at one of the numerous cafés (we recommend a freddocinno!) and, why not, a dip in the sea.

Enjoy lounging at the beach before taking the Tram back to downtown Athens and rounding the day off with dinner somewhere around Monastiraki Station with its numerous lively live-music establishments or, if posh dining is more up your street, head to classy Kolonaki Square.

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