The Best Things to Do in Athens, Greece
Curated By
Christine Lahlouh
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Greece
Athens
Arts & Culture
Food & Wine
International Travel
Local Culture
Local Food
Sightseeing
Curator’s statement
I feel like people always say Athens isn't worth spending any time in and I beg to differ. The food is incredible and so is the shopping. It's a lively city with a youthful vibe, plenty of exciting things to do and cute cafes that line the streets — what more can you ask for in a city?
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Things to do in Athens
Souvenir shop in Plaka. Keep an eye out for small bottle of olive oil because greek olive oil is incredible and packed with flavor. If you like olives, grab a bag of Kalamata olives, you won't be sorry.
Take a 20-30 minute hike up the Acropolis. The views from above are amazing but take a bottle of water up with you and a hat because there's very little shade and you will be fighting for some on the top.
Don't forget to visit the Acropolis Museum.
Astir Beach is in Vouliagmeni area about a 25-minute car ride from Athens. If you're craving a lazy beach day this is the place to go. It's a long sandy beach that is serviced and you only have to pay if you'd like to use a lounge chair.
Monastiraki Square is worth a visit. It has Acropolis views and a flea market next to the ruins of Hydrean's Library. Just above it is a handmade sandal shop to complete your Greek vacation vibe.
Ellyz Cafe is a cute cafe in Monastiraki completed covered in pink flowers. You can get pink coffee and a pretty cute instagram pic.
Consider stopping by Hammam Bath for a scrub before you hit the islands. They offer massages for after a long flight and steam baths.
If you like smoking hooka, there's a rooftop cafe called Hookaholic. They have a great tea selection and serve drinks.
Places to eat & drink in Athens
Nikkei Peruvian Resto Bar: Hands down the best meal in town with decor that'll have you slow clapping. Black cod is not to be missed.
A for Athens: Rooftop bar for drinks with a view of the Acropolis.
Tokyo Joe: Excellent variation of all Asian cuisine. Please don't miss the chicken bao.
Fuga Athens: Sister restaurant to Nikkei. Outdoor restaurant with great drinks and food is great.
Minü: Cute cafe with plants everywhere. Boutique shop and literal tea garden.
Tylixto Greek Wrap: Amazing Gyros and a quick 3 euro bite to hold you over while shopping.
Pink Flamingo Dim Sum: Small dim sum shop close to Niki Hotel. Duck bao is worth the stop alone.
Lukumades: Local Greek desert equivalent to our doughnuts but with honey glaze and cool toppings.
Tzitzikas Kai Mernigas: Authentic Greek Taverna with amazing shareable dishes.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out my guide to Lebanon: Food, Hotels & Activities in Lebanon: 5-Day Cultural Adventure.
Travel Advisor
Christine Lahlouh
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