Written by Jess
Greece has been #1 on my bucket list for the last few years, ever since I was able to throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain. So as you can imagine, I was so excited to finally see the country and all its beauty. However, I wasn’t as impressed as I hoped. We only went to Athens, which may be part of the problem. The next time I head to Greece, I want to see places like Mykonos, Santorini, and other islands. BUT, if you are still someone who wants to see Athens, have no fear. I have some tips for traveling just for you!
When you first arrive in Athens, probably by plane, I would suggest taking the bus into the city. It takes about 40 minutes but it is the safest and cheapest way to get to the city. I would suggest staying somewhere in Kolonaki, which means you can get off at Syntagma Square and walk easily. This neighborhood is more affluent, which means it tends to be safer. I loved our Airbnb and highly recommend it! The view of the Acropolis from our balcony was breathtaking.
Quick Tip: While walking around Athens, be sure to avoid Exarcheia. There have been problems there and it is not that safe for tourists.
Here are four must-see places in Athens:
- The Acropolis: while it is filled with tourists, it is still beautiful and historic, something you do not want to miss.
- Ancient Agora: I loved all the statues and architecture. There is more than one thing to see here for sure.
- Mount Lycabettus: definitely worth the hike. You get an amazing view of Athens. I, for one, was surprised just how big Athens is. There are many tourists here at sunset, so if you want to avoid that, try to go in the early morning before it gets too hot. Plus it’s free! How can you say no?
- Panathenaic stadium: the OG Olympics, probably the only one I could actually afford to go to (€2.50). It was very cool to see the restored stadium and to imagine what it would have been like all those years ago.
Overall, everything in Athens is filled with tourists. If that isn’t for you, I would suggest sitting this one out. It’s a beautiful city and is quite cheap for students as pretty much everything you can see is half off! Definitely worth it.
Travel by the Book 