Athens is a city that's alive, pulsing with energy and layers of history in unexpected ways. Beyond the iconic Acropolis and crowded Plaka, there’s a side of the city that travelers often miss. Start your day with a quick shot of Greek coffee from a small street-side kiosk – they’re everywhere and they’re no-nonsense, much like the people here.

Head towards the vibrant neighborhood of Koukaki, where independent shops, art spaces, and small studios are tucked between bakeries and cozy cafés. Try a koulouri, a sesame bread ring sold by vendors on almost every corner, or sample modern Greek bites like mini loukoumades (donut-like pastries) drizzled in honey or stuffed with chocolate. Many spots in Koukaki and Psyrri are elevating local ingredients with contemporary twists – think grilled octopus with wild greens or smoked eggplant hummus, dishes that go beyond the familiar fare.

For a breath of sea air, Piraeus and Glyfada are just a quick tram or metro ride away, offering easy access to beaches. Athens Riviera, with its clear blue waters, surprises many visitors. Vouliagmeni Lake, with its warm mineral waters, provides a calm, scenic escape, surrounded by cliffs and greenery – a great spot for a morning swim and a spa-like experience that’s actually part of nature.

Tourism and accommodation options have grown up here as well, from boutique hotels in neoclassical buildings to modern lofts in buzzing neighborhoods like Monastiraki and Kerameikos. The rooftop bar scene has taken off, too, giving people plenty of places to kick back with a view of the city’s glittering skyline at night.

Athens also has a new crowd of food trucks and popup kitchens. Catch one at Technopolis or one of the newer markets in Gazi – here, chefs experiment with bold flavors, blending Greek staples with spices and sauces from global cuisines.

For an evening scene, stroll down to Exarchia, where locals gather in alternative bars and music venues. This is a city that’s constantly renewing itself, a blend of grit and grace, and it’s well worth taking the time to explore beyond the obvious.

Discover Athens through various tours that highlight its rich history and vibrant culture. Take a guided tour of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, explore the ancient Agora, or enjoy a leisurely walk through Plaka, the old neighborhood. Food tours, night tours, and day trips to nearby destinations like Cape Sounion and Delphi are also popular choices. Embark on your Athenian adventure with FollowMeToGreece, ensuring a memorable and authentic experience in this historic city.