-
Latest entries
-
BOOK YOUR FERRIES ONLINE
See here all our Accommodation in Greece
One Day in Athens: A Modern Journey Through Time and Taste
One Day in Athens: A Modern Journey Through Time and Taste
Athens, a city that pulses with life and an ever-evolving energy, is much more than its ancient ruins. Here’s a unique day in Athens, blending its contemporary vibes, local flavors, and hidden sides with a fresh perspective that’s both approachable and memorable.
8:00 AM: Wake Up to Athens
Start your day at a boutique hotel or a stylish Airbnb in the hip neighborhood of Koukaki. Known for its creative vibe, Koukaki offers chic cafes, graffiti-filled streets, and a mix of locals and travelers. Begin with a cup of freddo espresso (the iced coffee Greeks swear by) at Bel Ray, a retro café-bar that serves excellent morning bites. Opt for a modern twist on Greek breakfast—think a Grilled cheese “spinach pie” with goat cheese, fennel seeds, gruyère and sourdough bread for 6.50€.
9:00 AM: The Acropolis and Its Surroundings, Reimagined
Skip the basic “ruins checklist” approach to the Acropolis. Instead, take a guided tour focused on storytelling, mythology, and how ancient Athens connects to modern life. Pair this visit with a stroll along the pedestrianized Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, where street performers and artists breathe life into history.
After the Acropolis, stop by the Onassis Stegi Cultural Center for an unexpected juxtaposition—cutting-edge exhibitions housed in a building that's as much about Athens' future as its past.
11:00 AM: Street Life Meets Urban Renewal
Walk through Psirri, a once gritty but now gentrified district. The area brims with surprises: small artisan workshops making traditional leather goods, quirky art spaces, and colorful street murals narrating Athenian life. Don’t forget to visit Little Kook, a whimsical dessert shop where every corner feels like a fairytale, even if you just pop in for a photo.
12:30 PM: Lunch with a Local Twist
Instead of a stereotypical taverna, try Feyrouz, a wildly popular local spot offering Eastern Mediterranean fusion. Their lahmacun (thin flatbread) and vegan wraps are a must-try. Pair it with a refreshing homemade lemonade infused with local herbs. Alternatively, head to Cookoovaya, a restaurant that reinvents Greek staples with fresh, modern flair—like zucchini carpaccio or octopus with smoked eggplant.
2:00 PM: Cool Off by the Riviera
Yes, Athens has a coastline, and it’s worth the short tram ride to discover. Head to Edem Beach, a slice of seaside charm just outside the city. Grab a lounge chair or simply stroll along the promenade, dipping your toes in the Mediterranean. For a laid-back drink, stop by Ark—a stylish beach bar where the Athenian chic meets relaxed seaside vibes.
4:00 PM: A Different Kind of Museum
Athens isn’t just about the classics. Visit the Benaki Museum of Islamic Art, tucked in a quiet corner near Kerameikos, showcasing stunning artifacts from the Islamic world. Or explore the Museum of Cycladic Art, with its minimalist aesthetic and impressive collection of Cycladic figurines that feel almost contemporary.
5:30 PM: Rooftop Refreshments with a View
Athens is famous for its rooftop bars, but skip the tourist-heavy spots and head to Couleur Locale in Monastiraki. Overlook the Acropolis as it glows in the golden hour while sipping on a cocktail crafted with mastiha, a unique resinous liqueur from the island of Chios.
7:00 PM: A Feast for All Senses
For dinner, indulge in the creative Greek cuisine scene at Spondi, an acclaimed restaurant blending local ingredients with modern gastronomy. If fine dining feels too formal, head to Ama Lachei, an urban oasis in Exarchia. Here, you’ll find dishes like orzo risotto with seafood or slow-cooked pork infused with Athenian herbs, all in a cozy garden setting.
9:00 PM: Athens by Night
Athens comes alive after dark. Head to Bios, a hybrid bar and cultural space, for live music, art installations, or simply the rooftop view. Alternatively, explore the Gazi District, where old gasworks have been transformed into a hub of bars, clubs, and art venues. The vibe here is unpolished yet magnetic, perfect for an eclectic crowd.
11:00 PM: Midnight Stroll and Sweet Treats
Cap off your night with a leisurely walk through Kolonaki, the city’s upscale quarter. Grab loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) at Lukumades—but with a twist: filled with chocolate or drizzled with pistachio cream. Pair it with a shot of tsipouro (a potent Greek spirit) before heading back to your accommodation.
Athens isn’t just a city; it’s an experience that constantly reinvents itself. Spend one day here, and you’ll see that it’s not just about the past—it’s about how the past and present collide to create something utterly unforgettable.
