Last Updated: December 20, 2023
When I was a kid, each year we would travel from Crete to Albania to visit my grandparents. More often than not, we would make a stopover in Athens for a couple of days. Back then, I was not fond of this massive city. For someone who grew up on an island, Athens seemed to me like a city without a face and a lack of character.
With the years passing, every time I visited, my friends and family would show me at least a few new neighbourhoods and cool places to see. That eventually led to my love affair with the Metropolis.
This is my guide on how to spend 48 hours in Athens.
SYNTAGMA & NATIONAL GARDEN
You can start your day from Syntagma square, which is essentially the centre of Athens. The Greek Parliament has been standing there since 1934. Next to the Greek Parliament is the National Garden. A green oasis and a pleasant break from the busy streets of Athens. On a hot day, the shadow provided by the 7,000 trees scattered around the park, make the National Garden the perfect getaway if you wish to lose yourself in a book, relax while enjoying a traditional Greek koulouri (sold at the entrance of the park by a street vendor) or simply watch the passers-by.
PLAKA
From the National Garden, walk towards the Temple of Olympian Zeus and from there cross the avenue to enter Plaka.
Plaka is one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Athens. A beautiful blend of neoclassical houses and narrow streets. Here you will come across several archaeological sites pretty much on every turn you take.
ACROPOLIS
Acropolis stands proudly in the centre of Athens on top of a hill and it is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Whether you choose to take a tour or explore it yourself, one thing is for sure, you will be at awe by its beauty.
ANAFIOTIKA
At the foot of Acropolis Hill, is Anafiotika or little Santorini, as I like to call it. A picturesque neighbourhood which gives the sense of a Greek island due to its Cycladic architecture. Once you enter the narrow passageways you will be greeted by houses with white walls which are hugged by Bougainvilleas, colourful doors and windows. It is a small, quiet, residential area and a great escape from the crowds of Plaka. Take your time to explore it; play with the stray cats and why not, even engage in a conversation with the local residents.
MONASTIRAKI
Continue towards Monastiraki square. If the smell of the Greek Pita Gyro is inviting (I assure you, it will be) then don’t fight it. All the eateries located right behind the church on the square have decent food but if I had to choose one, then Thanasis restaurant would be my go-to place for a delicious kebab. Alternatively, you can try Savvas for a pita gyro (choose tzatziki as a sauce and if you’re not a big fan of onion, then order one without).
The flea market of Monastiraki is less of a flea market and more of a bazaar. It is bustling with tourist shops selling anything from fridge magnets to “I Love Athens” t-shirts, antiques and books.
I always like to make a stop on Monastiraki square at the 360 Cocktail Bar or A for Athens for a drink. The both are the perfect spots to recharge my batteries before continuing my stroll around the city. The view of the Acropolis from these bars is breathtaking.
PSIRI
Cross Ermou street and you will find yourself in the Psiri neighbourhood. Psiri is home to family-run restaurants with live music (in the evenings), cute cafes and boutique hotels. You may get the impression that Psiri is a shabby area. But, past your first impression, allow yourself to stroll its streets and embrace its unique charm.
One of the places you don’t want to miss is Little Cook. A fairytale themed cafe with spectacular displays on the exterior and interior. A great spot to snap that perfect Instagram worthy picture.
VOULIAGMENI LAKE
This place is a real treat if you wish to escape the bustling centre of Athens and looking for a quick getaway. Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal spa located in Vouliagmeni suburb. It is 30 minutes from Athens city centre by car or roughly 1h 45 minutes by public transportation.
The landscape is gorgeous. There is a rock formation on one side, with sea caves hidden underneath. On the other side, you will find beach umbrellas and a restaurant. The water is very inviting, with a warm turquoise colour and a temperature no lower than 18 °C. It is truly the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing day.
If you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your day, then you must visit Four Seasons Astir Palace. This gem of a hotel blends in perfectly luxury with the Greek hospitality.
The facilities include three private coves and two swimming pools. Amongst their 7 bars and restaurants, my favourite was Helios, a poolside lounge restaurant where you can sip your favourite cocktail while enjoying the view of the Mediterranean sea.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
FOOD & DRINK
Needless to say, Greek cuisine is one of the best. A few things that you must try during your visit are below.
Pies & pastries – be sure to try some of the delicious Greek pastries found at the local bakeries. I guarantee you that won’t be a challenge as there is usually one bakery every couple of blocks. Try Greek specialties such as spanakopita, tyropita, koulouri, bougatsa, peinirli and pretty much anything you can pronounce.
Coffee – Greeks LOVE their coffee and they take it pretty seriously. So, you must try a freddo espresso (cold espresso) or freddo cappuccino (cold espresso topped with creamy frothed milk). Frappe is also a big favourite (made from instant Nescafe coffee). Because these coffees are cold, sugar needs to be added while preparing the coffee. Hence why the barista will always ask you whether you take sugar with your coffee or not. Last but not least, Greek (warm) coffee.
AVOID TAXI SCAMS
Taxi drivers in Athens have a tendency to avoid using their metre. Instead, they try to negotiate the tariff of the route. Make sure you pick a taxi which has the taxi lights on their roofs on and has working meters. Check this site for more information.
Alternatively, you can download the FreeNow app, which is basically like an Uber.
PICKPOCKETING
Gypsies are everywhere in Athens. It may sound strange, but beware when you see them approaching you. They usually go in pairs and while one is trying to sell something and distract you, the other one will try stealing your belongings.
Same rules apply when using the Metro. Be extra careful, especially during rush hour when it is full of people and there is a lack of personal space. Keep an eye on your belongings and especially on your mobile phone (this comes from personal experience).
