Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, seamlessly blends its rich historical tapestry with a vibrant, modern lifestyle. As a year-round destination, Athens' historical centre offers a captivating journey through time with its ancient ruins, bustling markets, and contemporary eateries. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply in search of picturesque strolls, Athens has something special for everyone.
Getting to the Heart of Athens
1. Eleftherios Venizelos Airport:
Your journey begins at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, the main international gateway to Athens. It’s well-equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable start to your trip. From here, you can easily access the city centre using various transportation options.
2.Taxi from FREENOW:
For a smooth and hassle-free transfer to the city centre, use the FREENOW app to book a taxi. This app allows you to book and track your ride, ensuring a convenient and reliable service. Taxis from the airport to the city centre are plentiful and offer a direct route to your accommodation.
3.Metro Blue Line (Line 3):
Alternatively, hop on the Metro Blue Line, which will whisk you away to Syntagma Square in 14 stops. This line runs directly from the airport to the heart of Athens, providing an efficient and cost-effective way to reach the city. The metro is clean, air-conditioned, and offers a glimpse of the local life as you travel.
Rent a Car
1.Economy Car Rentals:
For those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, renting a car is a great option. Economy Car Rentals offers competitive rates and a wide selection of vehicles. Their service is reliable and convenient, allowing you to book online and pick up your car directly at the airport.
2.Avis Car Rental:
Avis provides another excellent car rental option, with a reputation for quality service and a comprehensive range of vehicles. Whether you need a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for longer trips, Avis has you covered. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Athens and its surrounding areas at your leisure.
Where to Stay in Athens City Centre
Choosing the perfect accommodation in Athens can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some top recommendations:
The Modernist Athens
This chic hotel in Kolonaki offers stunning views of Lycabettus Hill and is just a short walk from Evangelismos Metro Station. The Modernist Athens combines contemporary design with classic elegance, featuring minimalist rooms with luxurious touches. Its rooftop terrace provides a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of Thiseio, this boutique gem is close to Monastiraki Metro Station and boasts views of the Acropolis. Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel offers a unique blend of modern comfort and traditional charm. The rooms are stylishly decorated, and the hotel’s restaurant serves delectable Mediterranean cuisine. Its proximity to major attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.
The Foundry Suites
Offering luxury suites in a prime central location, this hotel is an 8-minute walk from Monastiraki Metro Station. The Foundry Suites stands out with its industrial-chic design and spacious accommodations. Each suite is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and artistic touches. The rooftop garden is a delightful retreat where you can relax and enjoy views of the Acropolis.
Grande Bretagne Hotel
For a high-end experience, stay at the iconic Grande Bretagne Hotel, known for its luxurious amenities and central location. This historic hotel exudes old-world charm and elegance. Guests can enjoy exquisite dining, a luxurious spa, and breathtaking views from the rooftop bar. The Grande Bretagne is a symbol of refinement and offers a truly memorable stay.
Where to EAT
Athens’ culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. From breakfast to dinner, here are some top spots to satisfy your cravings:
BREAKFAST/BRUNCH
- Sol Bake and Coffee: Start your day with a visit to Sol Bake and Coffee, renowned for its excellent coffee and the best cinnamon and pistachio rolls in town. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a morning treat.
- Minu: Delight in coffee and brunch amidst amazing plants at Minu. This café offers a serene environment filled with greenery, making it an ideal place to unwind. The menu features a variety of healthy and delicious options, from avocado toast to smoothie bowls.
- Anana: Offers excellent coffee and food, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Anana’s welcoming ambiance and tasty offerings, such as fresh pastries and sandwiches, make it a great place to start your day.
- Blind Spot: Must-try brunch spot in Pangrati, famous for its avocado toast. Blind Spot is known for its creative menu and vibrant atmosphere. The brunch offerings are diverse and cater to different tastes, making it a favorite among brunch enthusiasts.
- 72h Bakery by Ergon House: Renowned for its freshly baked goods, 72h Bakery is a must-visit for anyone who loves bread and pastries. The bakery uses traditional methods and high-quality ingredients to produce some of the best baked goods in the city.
- Overoll: Known for its delicious pastries and coffee, Overoll is a hidden gem in the city centre. The bakery’s selection includes croissants, muffins, and other delectable treats, all made fresh daily.
Lunch/Dinner
- Malconi’s: Famous for its pizza and wine in Kolonaki. Malconi’s offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that features Italian classics and an extensive wine list. The stylish interior and attentive service make it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
- Granello: Best pizza and great focaccia. Granello is a beloved pizzeria that serves authentic Italian pizza with a variety of toppings. The casual and cozy atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
- Ekiben: Renowned for its smashed burger. Ekiben is a popular spot for burger lovers, offering a unique twist on the classic burger. The smashed patties are juicy and flavorful, making it a must-try for anyone craving a delicious burger.
- Spitjack: Must-try rotisserie with dishes like picanha and duck, and a delightful millefeuille. Spitjack specializes in rotisserie cooking, offering a menu that features succulent meats and creative sides. The inviting atmosphere and exceptional food make it a favorite among locals.
- Tre Sorelle: Known for its fantastic pizza. Tre Sorelle is another great option for pizza lovers, serving delicious wood-fired pizzas in a warm and welcoming setting.
- Deos: Enjoy a rooftop experience with stunning views and dishes like beef tartare and pumpkin risotto. Deos offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and creative flavors. The rooftop setting provides breathtaking views of the city, making it an ideal spot for a memorable meal.
- Tan Popo: Offers a delightful Japanese dining experience. Tan Popo is known for its fresh and flavorful Japanese dishes, including sushi, ramen, and tempura. The elegant decor and attentive service make it a standout dining destination.
- Oikonomou Tavern: Traditional Greek food. Oikonomou Tavern is a great place to experience authentic Greek cuisine, with a menu that features classic dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki.
- Thanasis & Bairaktaris: Famous for their kebabs. These two establishments are legendary in Athens for their delicious and affordable kebabs. They offer a true taste of Greek street food, with juicy meat and flavorful toppings.
- Souvlakia “Kostas”: Renowned spot for souvlaki at Mitropoleos & Pentelis 5, Syntagma. Kostas is a must-visit for anyone craving traditional Greek souvlaki. The small, no-frills eatery serves some of the best souvlaki in the city, with tender meat and fresh pita.
MALCONI'S, Italian cuisine
GRANELLO, Neonapolian Pizza
EKIBEN, Japanese kitchen & smashed burgers
SPITJACK, Rotisserie
OIKONOMOU TAVERN, A traditional Greek tavern since 1930
THANASIS KEBAB, Greek Kebab & souvlaki in Monastiraki
KOSTAS, Traditional souvlaki since 1948
WHERE TO DRINK
As the sun sets, Athens transforms into a vibrant playground for night owls. Here are some top spots to enjoy a drink:
- Drupes Spritzeria: A perfect place for a refreshing spritzer. Drupes Spritzeria offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu that features a variety of refreshing spritzers, perfect for a warm evening.
- Heteroclito: A charming wine bar with an excellent selection. Heteroclito is a cozy spot for wine lovers, offering a curated selection of Greek and international wines. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect glass or bottle to suit your taste.
- Tragos All Day: Modern twist on the traditional kafeneio. Tragos is a versatile spot that serves coffee by day and cocktails by night. The stylish interior and relaxed vibe make it a great place to unwind at any time of day.
- By the Glass: Another excellent wine bar option. By the Glass offers an extensive wine list and a menu of small plates that pair perfectly with the wine. The elegant setting is ideal for a sophisticated evening out.
- Thamai Spritzeria: Known for its unique spritzers. Thamai offers a creative take on the classic spritzer, with a menu that features innovative flavors and combinations. The trendy decor and lively atmosphere make it a popular spot for a night out.
- Hippy3: Offers great drinks and vibrant music. Hippy3 is a lively bar with a fun, bohemian vibe. The drink menu includes a variety of cocktails, beers, and spirits, and the music keeps the energy high all night long.
- Birdman: Renowned for its cocktails and lively atmosphere. Birdman is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts, offering expertly crafted drinks in a chic and trendy setting. The bartenders are skilled and creative, ensuring a memorable drinking experience.
- Vrettos: a historic bar in Plaka that's been enchanting visitors for over a century. Famous for its vibrant array of colourful bottles lining the walls, Vrettos offers a unique ambiance where you can enjoy traditional ouzo and other Greek spirits. This charming spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavours and timeless atmosphere of Athens.
- Yiasemi: Nestled in the picturesque streets of Plaka, Giasemi is renowned for its charming ambiance and delectable treats. With its cosy setting and scenic views, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing coffee or a light meal.
Drupes Spritzeria
Heteroclito
Tragos
By the glass
Thamai
Hippy3
Birdman
Vrettos
Yiasemi
Must-See Sights in the Historical Centre
No trip to Athens is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks. Here are some must-see sights in the historical centre
THE ACROPOLIS MUSEUM
A must-visit to explore ancient Greek art and history. The Acropolis Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Acropolis, providing a fascinating insight into ancient Greek civilization. The modern building is designed to showcase the artifacts in a way that highlights their historical significance.
Acropolis & Parthenon Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in ancient history with a guided tour. The Acropolis is one of the most famous ancient sites in the world, and a guided tour is the best way to learn about its history and significance. The Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, is the highlight of the Acropolis and a symbol of classical Greece.
National Gallery
Perfect for art lovers. The National Gallery houses a vast collection of Greek and European art, ranging from the Byzantine era to the modern period. The museum’s exhibitions provide a comprehensive overview of the development of Greek art and its place in the broader context of European art history.
National Garden
A serene escape amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. The National Garden is a lush, green oasis in the heart of Athens, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy city streets. The garden features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, as well as several ponds and walking paths. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll.
Syntagma Square and the Change of Guards
Witness the traditional changing of the guards ceremony. Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens and a major hub of activity. The changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in front of the Hellenic Parliament, is a popular attraction. The ceremonial guard, known as the Evzones, wears traditional uniforms and performs an intricate routine that is both impressive and moving.
Lykabettus Hill
Ascend Lykabettus Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Athens. This iconic landmark offers a serene escape with its lush greenery and a stunning vantage point over the city.
Where to shop : the galleria armadoro store
Of course, no visit to Athens' historical centre would be complete without a stop at Galleria Armadoro. Located in this enchanting area, our showroom offers a collection of 925 sterling silver and brass jewellery. Known for our hypoallergenic, lightweight, and affordable pieces, especially our signature puffy, chunky hoops, we are the perfect destination for one of a kind jewellery and gifts.
