City break: Athens in a weekend
Thinking of a Greek getaway? Most people have the usual suspects in mind: posh islands, festive music, souvlaki, pita bread for days and stereotypes from My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Athens is a completely different vibe from the posh islands like Santorini and Mykonos. You don’t go to Athens to party and beach. More like history and food. My two objectives in Athens were simple: see the Acropolis and eat nice food. So here is my easy list, and thanks to the foodie research of my travel buddy, we ate well!
Transport: The Athens International Airport (ATH) is reachable through many airlines. The airport has a direct train to the city center which takes about an hour. For 20 euro you can get a three day pass that includes round trip to the airport and the metro during that time(or purchase 9 euro one way). Compared to many European cities, a complete deal because it includes the metro and buses! There are plenty taxis from the airport as well, but that will cost you at least 38 euro during the day or 54 euro in the evening one way.
Hotels: There are plenty of hotels downtown. I recomment staying in Monasiraki or Omonia Square for easy options. Omonia can get a little shady in the evenings on the side streets, just keep an eye out. I stayed at the Moxy Athens City. Great hotel for the location, ease of transport and if you are Marriott person, a good way to use the 25k certificates.
Culture: If you are in Athens, it is more than likely that you will want to visit the Acropolis. Buy the tickets online and save time because the lines can get a bit wild. Also, if you buy the tickets at the Acropolis, they charge more(It is a 10 euro difference…live and learn) The National Archaeological Museum is also nice, but if you are short on time, go to the Acropolis.
Dress Code: It is a casual city, but if you are visiting a monestary, ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. Athens is a walking city, so be practical here. And if you are seeing the Acropolis, flip flops will not do! There are mosquitos here, so be prepared with some repellent as well.
Food: The food is plentiful and wonderful. And really reasonably priced for the most part. Here’s the list of places I stopped by during my last trip. This list is by no means exhaustive(!) Of course, in a touristy area if you see market price on the menu, be smart and ask what the price is. But the places below will not have that issue.
Souvlaki : Souvlaki Leivadia (Σουβλάκι Η ΛΕΙΒΑΔΙΑ) this place is simple - grilled pork on a skewer served with fries, pita and salad. The student meal is a bargain with 3 skewers and fries you can’t finish for 7 euro. It is quick, pretty tasty and easy.
Greek Coffee: Mokka Specialty Coffee (ΨΩΜΑΣ, Ν., "ΜΟΚΚΑ ΚΑΦΕΚΟΠΤΕΙΟ) Good coffee, if you like it in this particular style(for some it is a bit intense - but they do it well here and they are friendly)
Hipster Coffee: Dope Roasting Company This place has amazing flat whites, cappucino and pastries as well as a nice outdoor terrace area.
Lukumades (Greek donuts): LUKUMAΔΕΣ serves these beautiful freshly fried donuts in any way you want. I recommend the classic honey and cinnamon version.
Gyro: There are so many good places here. I went to O Thanasis(Ο Θανάσης κεμπάπ Μοναστηράκι) and it was lovely!
Fancy cocktails (or a tasting menu!): Sense Athens has a perfect view of the Acropolis - but for dining you have to book. If you are lucky to snag a table for cocktails, it is well worth it.
Fine dining: Cookoovaya is a Greek inspried menu with local food done in an elevated and elegant way. Beautiful space, kind service and a nice way to spoil yourself.
Local joint!: This place, Της Θεατρου το Στεκι - Steki is delightful and I would say fully authentic. For 13 euro you can easily get a meal for two will zucchini balls and tzatizki, a plate of freshly prepared vegetables and beans and saganaki with a large beer. Heavenly. I fully recommend trying it!
Pastry: Bougatsa is a cream filled phyllo pastry sprinked with sugar. Bougatsadiko Psirri is the place to go!