Athens - The Layover
Athens International Airport is about a 40 minute car ride into the city center. One thing that many people don't know is that Athens Metro system can easily get you from the airport into the system in about 50 minutes and all around the city through their underground routes.
The city center is made up of many different neighborhoods all circled aroudn the main attraction - The Acropolis.
My favorite neighborhood - Makrygianni - tends to be less full of tourists and tourists shops, although they are right around the corner, staying a few blocks into this neighborhood you get more of a feel of traditional Athenian lifestyle. The neighborhood is near the Acropolis Museum and easy walking distance to the Acropoli Metro Station. It is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood where you can immerse yourself in Greek culture.
Hotel Recommendations
For those looking to be more budget-concious but still have good amenities in a boutique environment I recommend Hotel Philippos. The hotel has a delightful rooftop seating area with great views of the Acropolis.
Just around the corner for those who want to splurge a bit more is the sister-property of Philippos - The Herodion Hotel. It provides a chic and elegant atmosphere for a truly unique experience,
Bars & Restaurants
There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants in the Makrygianni neighborhood.
If you are looking to stretch your legs and see more than the boutique neighborhood you are staying in, you can take a stroll along Thrasillou street which will take you up into more busy neighborhoods of Athens.
Moving in a counter-clockwise direction around the Acropolis, you will wander into the Anafiotika neighborhood, part of Plaka.
Further down the way on the north side of Acropolis Hill in the maze of shops and markets is the lively and commercial neighborhood of Monastiraki. Here you will find the James Joyce Pub offering good food and outdoor seating to for people watching.
As you continue your counter-clockwise direction to the northwest side of Acropolis Hill you will come upon the Psyri neighborhood which is famous for it's nightlife.
For more adventurous
About a 10-15 minute cab ride out of the Acropolis area, you will find yourself at the base of Lycabettus Hill where you can take a funicular cable car up to the top.
At the top of the hill is a more upscale seafood-oriented restaurant with a panoramic terrace and views for miles. Perfect place for an evening meal to see the sites of Athens a lit from above, or a great place to settle in and watch the sunset over the city and the sea.
Things to Do
Acropolis & Parthenon
The UNESCO-listed Acropolis of Athens is the city’s most visited attraction and although is very busy, it is a must-see. There are several ticket booths around the base of the Acropolis Hill.
Acropolis Museum
Athens Hop On / Hop Off Bus
An easy and economical way to see the city is through the tourist Hop On Hop Off buses that can be seen around Athens. It will take you past the major highlights of the city.
Schedule a City Tour with Guide
If you are looking for something a little more informative and immersive, schedule a city tour with a guide to meet you at the hotel lobby and show you the main sites of Athens.
Interested in Booking?
Want to add Athens as layover option for a larger Greecian Trip? Check out my Travel Planning Consulting Services and let's set up a time to chat.
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