Athens: A Timeless Journey Through History and Flavor

The Acropolis was an absolute must-see for me. I had signed up for an organized tour, but, honestly, after about 20 minutes, I decided to ditch the tour. I wanted to feel the real Athens, so I wandered off to explore on my own.

I ended up visiting some beautiful old churches and strolling through Plaka and Paleo, the historic parts of the city, where the charm of ancient streets and local life truly came alive. The narrow streets, the colorful houses, the smell of delicious food — it was magical.

I also had a blast exploring Monastiraki Flea Market, where I found some amazing souvenirs and quirky antiques. And for the best panoramic view? Lycabettus Hill at sunset — absolutely breathtaking!

Athens is the kind of city that hits you with history at every corner, but what really makes it special is the mix of old and new — the grand ruins, the vibrant streets and, of course, the food. I explored Athens with a friend, walking through its buzzing neighborhoods, admiring street performers dressed in traditional Greek attire and taking in the sights. We visited the Acropolis, but to be honest, while the history was fascinating, my focus was elsewhere — on the flavors of Athens.

Getting around Athens like a pro

Athens is a mix of ancient streets, bustling squares and lively neighborhoods, and getting around is part of the adventure. If you’re staying in the city center, walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere — Plaka, Monastiraki and Syntagma are all within easy strolling distance. But when your feet need a break, here’s how to move like a local:

• Metro magic: The Athens Metro is clean, efficient and gets you to major spots fast. The Monastiraki and Acropolis stations are perfect for sightseeing, while Syntagma connects you to the airport. Plus, it’s cheap!

• Taxis & ride apps: Taxis are everywhere, but to avoid surprises with pricing, use the Beat app — it’s like Uber but for Athens, and it helps find reputable drivers.

• Trams for a scenic ride: If you want a chilled-out ride to the Athenian Riviera, take the tram from Syntagma to the coast. It’s slower but perfect for sightseeing.

• Buses & trolleys: Great for exploring, but Athens traffic can be unpredictable. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one for a more local experience.

If you know me, you know food is a huge part of my travels. In Athens, I went all in! I started with a classic souvlaki — grilled meat wrapped in warm pita with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki. Then there was moussaka, a rich and hearty dish that reminded me of a Greek version of lasagna. And of course, I couldn’t leave without trying baklava, that sticky, nutty, honey-soaked perfection. Oh, and if you love coffee, do yourself a favor and grab a traditional Greek coffee at a kafeneio — it’s strong, but so worth it.

• Diodos Archaias Agoras: A classic taverna with views of the Ancient Agora, perfect for a traditional Greek meal in a historic setting.

• Artensis Restaurant: A stylish yet authentic spot serving Mediterranean dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

• MIRONI Greek Restaurant: A cozy gem known for its homemade Greek comfort food and warm hospitality.

For coffee or a relaxed drink, these cafés are perfect:

• Yiasemi: A bohemian café with a rooftop view and amazing pastries.

• Laluk Café-Bar: A lively all-day hangout spot that blends café culture with a bar atmosphere.

• Melina Merkouri Café: A charming place in Plaka, full of old-Athens character.

• Plakaki Café: A peaceful escape with great coffee and a cozy atmosphere.