Greek capital and the birthplace of democracy. Athens is a blend of modern and archaic world with the best food and the warmest people to be around. Plenty of good gyro and Greek yogurts to get.
Quick tips: stay near the center (Monastiraki or Acropolis) and walk everywhere. Avoid taking the buses. Take the subway/metro to and from the airport. Bring student ID for free entrance/discounts to attractions.
WHAT
sightseeing, dining
WHERE
Monastiraki, Acropolis
DURATION
1-2 days
Day 1 - Full Day
Sightseeing
1. Acropolis (Pathenon, Erechtreum, Propylea, etc.)
Dining
1. Stani ($) - AMAZING breakfast. THE BEST Greek Yogurt in my life.
2. A for Athens ($$) - Fair price for the wonderful rooftop view you get of Monastiraki Square + Acropolis. Food is also great, very large portions. Very popular. You might not be able to get a rooftop seat for sunset, reservation's a must here.
3. Sabbas ($$) - Great view of the acropolis (glass rooftop) and huge portions. If you're hungry for traditional Greek food this is the place to be.
4. Savvas ($$) - So notice that there is a spelling difference, trip advisor recommended this place. It is located within 0.1 mile of Sabbas. We didn't get a chance to try, but Google said it's a solid 4.5/5.0
5. Potato King ($) - 4-way fries in Monastiraki comes with dipping sauce. So worth it.
6. Mouses ($$) - great place to take chill for snacks/tea, in front of the Ancient Agora entrance.
Other recommendations (by local)
- 360 (rooftop)
- Glyfada (seaside, exclusive area)
- Kolonaki (upscale district)
- Yiasemi (cool coffee shop in the city)
- Lukumades (sweet desserts)
According to Georgius (a Greek local and friend):
"if you have enough money you should go on "bouzoukia" - a Greek terminology of going out at night where an orchestra play Greek modern music."
in other words, a cultural nightclub.
(Updated 2018)