Athens, Greece is a city steeped in history and brimming with culture. My recent trip there was an unforgettable adventure filled with ancient wonders, incredible food, and lively accommodations. Here’s a recap of my experience while traveling with four of my good friends, and some tips for your visit!
Must-See Sites:
The Acropolis and Parthenon:
The Acropolis, visible from many angles across the city, offers stunning views even from the lower sections of rock and forest, which you can explore for free. However, to see the Parthenon up close, there is an entry fee of $10 USD for young adults under 25 years-old. For EU residents under 25, it's free.
These structures are breathtakingly beautiful, though it can get quite crowded, even outside the busy season. I recommend getting there early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat.
Again, I used the Rick Steve's Audio Europe app for a free audio tour around 30-40 minutes-long, which provided fascinating historical insights into these ancient monuments. Afterwards, you'll be wondering why the city of Athens was named after the goddess Athena if her statues keep going missing!
National Archaeological Museum:
While my friends and I were getting tattoos on our last day in Athens, my partner visited this museum and, coming from a History major, found it to be one of the most captivating museums he had ever seen.
The museum houses an extensive collection of statues and ancient artifacts, some even predating the Egyptian pyramids. Don't miss the olive tree in front of the museum, which is over 1,000 years old!
He also used the Rick Steve's Audio Europe app for this museum, which was about 70 minutes, but took about two hours while walking through the exhibits. Entry is also free for EU young adults under 25 years-old.
Accommodation:
I stayed at the Athens Hawks Hostel, perfect for a group of five. This hostel was clean, reasonably priced, and offered a fun atmosphere. Additionally, for 5 euros, you get an all-you-can-eat breakfast, and the rooftop bar offers free welcome shots. The location is very central, and just a 15-minute walk from many tourist attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.
Dining:
Greek cuisine quickly became one of my favorites. The fresh vegetables, delectable cheeses, and delicious lamb dishes are simply irresistible.
One remarkable venue was Orizontes Lycabettus, a fancy restaurant atop the tallest hill in Athens. While the sunset view is spectacular, you can probably find better food at lower prices elsewhere in the city. A particularly annoying part of getting to this restaurant is the price and experience of the gondola. For 5 euros per person, per way, you can cram yourself into an underground gondola to take you up the hill. What fun :).
Despite many restaurants in Athens being touristy, the quality of the food and reasonable prices generally did not disappoint.
Athens is a city where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, making it a fun visit for any traveler. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to the engaging museums and delightful culinary experiences, my trip to Athens was an enriching journey through time and culture. Don’t forget to bring your walking shoes, a good appetite, and some sunscreen!
Best,
Hailey
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