Athens in Three Days: Your Full Greek Odyssey
Athens, the heart of ancient Greece and the cradle of Western civilization, attracts tourists with its rich history, unique culture, and unparalleled atmosphere. Planning a three-day trip to this city allows you to experience both the traces of the past and the vibrant energy of modernity. Before we embark on a journey through the most important monuments of Athens, it is worth getting familiar with their fascinating history, which has shaped the history of Europe for centuries.
Table of contents:
- Key Events in the History of Athens: From the Golden Age to Modern Times
- How to Get from Athens Airport to the City Center
- Guide to Athens Attractions + Map
- One Ticket for 7 Major Attractions in Athens
- Getting Around Athens: A Practical Guide to Public Transport
- Comfortable Accommodations in Athens: How to Find the Perfect Place to Stay
- How to Taste Athens: A Guide to Local Restaurants
- Safety Guide for Travelers in Athens
- The Jewel of the Athenian Riviera: Lake Vouliagmeni
- What to Bring Back from Greece?
- How to Get from Thessaloniki to Athens?
- Summary of a Three-Day Stay in Athens
Key Events in the History of Athens: From the Golden Age to Modern Times
The Golden Age of Athens
One of the most significant periods in the history of Athens is the so-called Golden Age, which took place in the 5th century BC. During this time, the city experienced a flourishing of culture, science, and democracy. Under the leadership of Pericles, many monumental buildings were constructed, including the famous Acropolis with the majestic Parthenon at its core. It was during this period that the philosophical works of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle were created, which to this day form the foundation of Western thought. Athens became the intellectual, cultural, and political center of the ancient world, influencing the shaping of European civilization.
Roman and Byzantine Occupation
After the Golden Age, Athens came under Roman rule. In 86 BC, the city was captured by the Roman general Sulla. Nevertheless, Athens maintained its position as a center of science and philosophy. The Romans enriched the city with new buildings, such as the Roman Forum and the Tower of the Winds. During the Byzantine period, Athens gradually lost its significance, although it continued to function as a religious center. Many ancient temples were transformed into churches, reflecting the spiritual continuity of the place.
Ottoman Period and National Revival
In the 15th century, Athens came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. The city went through a period of stagnation, although it remained inhabited and developed in its own way. A major turning point came in the 19th century when Greece regained its independence after the War of Independence (1821-1829). Athens was chosen as the capital of the newly formed Greek state in 1834. Intensive reconstruction efforts began to restore the city’s former glory. Ancient monuments were also discovered and restored, and today they are among the most important tourist attractions.
Visiting Athens, we can immerse ourselves in a thousand years of history that shaped our culture and civilization. This city is a living museum, where every street and square has its own extraordinary story to tell.
How to Get from Athens Airport to the City Center
Getting from Athens Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to the city center is simple and convenient. There are several options available, depending on your preferences and budget.
The first option is the metro. Line 3 (Blue Line) offers a direct connection from the airport to downtown Athens, reaching key stations such as Syntagma (Syntagma Square) and Monastiraki. The travel time is approximately 40 minutes, and trains run every 30 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is around 10 €.
The second option is the bus. Line X95 is a direct bus service that connects the airport to downtown Athens, ending at Syntagma Square. The travel time is around 50-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and buses run every 20 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is around 6 €.
Another option is the uburban train (Proastiakos). This train runs from the airport to the central station (Larissa Station), where you can transfer to the metro. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and trains run every hour. The ticket price is around 8 €.
For those who value comfort, taxis are available directly outside the arrivals terminal. The travel time is about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and the fixed fare is around 38 € during the day and 54 € at night (23:00 – 05:00).
The last option is private transfers, which can be booked online in advance. This is a convenient option for those traveling with large luggage or in larger groups. The cost of a private transfer depends on the chosen company and type of vehicle, typically starting at 40 €.
Each of these options has its advantages, so the choice depends on individual preferences and budget.
Guide to Athens Attractions + Map
Below you will find a map with marked attractions in Athens, important points such as the main train station and the airport, as well as recommended restaurants. Each location is accompanied by a short description containing information about the entrance fee and opening hours.
- Areopagus Hill,
- Nymphs Hill,
- Filopappos Hill,
- Pnyx Hill,
- Socrates’ Prison,
- Theater of Dionysus,
- Stoa of Eumenes ΙΙ,
- Odeon Heroda Attyka,
- Plaka District,
- Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Chrysokastriotissa,
- Old Madrasa Gate,
- Monastirakiou Square,
- Monastiraki District,
- Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in Athens,
- Syntagma Square,
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
- National Garden,
- Panathenaic Stadium,
Areopagus Hil:
The place where in ancient times the Areopagus Council, the highest court of Athens, held its sessions. Today, it offers beautiful views of the city and the Acropolis and is a popular tourist spot. The Areopagus was the center of political and judicial life in ancient Athens, where key decisions regarding law and justice were made.
Open 24/7, free entry.
Nymphs Hill:
A charming hill that is part of the ancient sacred area dedicated to the nymphs. While walking around the hill, visitors can enjoy picturesque views of Athens and the surrounding hills. Nymphs Hill was a site of worship and religious rituals, where reverence was given to the nymphs – deities of nature.
Open 24/7, free entry.
Filopappos Hill:
A hill with the monumental monument of Filopappos, a Roman senator. This place offers stunning panoramas of the Acropolis and the port of Piraeus, as well as numerous walking paths surrounded by greenery. Filopappos was a distinguished Roman citizen and a friend of Athens, and his monument is a tribute to his contribution to the city’s development.
Open 24/7, free entry.
Pnyx Hill:
A historic meeting place of the Athenian assembly, where important political debates took place. It features an impressive terrace with a view of the Acropolis, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of ancient democracy. Pnyx was the heart of political life in ancient Athens, where citizens discussed and made key decisions about the city.
Open 24/7, free entry.
Socrates’ Prison:
In the prison of Socrates, located in Athens, one of the most important philosophers of ancient Greece died. Socrates was sentenced to death by drinking hemlock in 399 BC for allegedly corrupting the youth and impiety. The prison, located near the Athenian Agora, became a symbol of philosophical courage and intellectual independence. The modern ruins of this place attract many tourists who wish to visit a site connected to one of the most poignant moments in the history of philosophy.
Open 24/7, accessible only from the outside.
Theater of Dionysus:
One of the oldest theaters in the world, where the tragedies and comedies of ancient Greek playwrights were performed. It is the birthplace of theater, where works by Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus, among others, were presented. The Theater of Dionysus was a venue for many significant cultural and political events in ancient Athens.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) from 08:00 to 19:00
- Winter season (November-March) from 08:00 to 17:00
Stoa of Eumenes II:
A long, covered passage that connected the Theater of Dionysus with the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Stoa served as shelter for the spectators from the sun and rain, and today it stands as a testament to the architectural craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks. The Stoa of Eumenes II was also a place for meetings and discussions among the elites of Athenian society.
Odeon Heroda Attyka:
A Roman theater built by Herodes Atticus in 161 AD, which is still used for concerts and performances today. This impressive marble structure, seating over 5,000 spectators, boasts excellent acoustics. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus was a symbol of the power and wealth of ancient Athens and a place where the city’s elite enjoyed entertainment and culture.
Accessible only from the outside.
Plaka District:
The oldest district of Athens, full of narrow, winding streets, neoclassical buildings, and charming taverns. Plaka is the heart of the city, vibrant both day and night. Plaka has preserved its medieval charm and represents a unique blend of tradition and modernity in Athens.
Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Chrysokastriotissa:
A small, picturesque church located in the heart of Plaka. The temple is a place of peace and reflection, with beautiful frescoes and icons. This church is an important part of Athens’ religious and cultural heritage, attracting numerous pilgrims and tourists.
Old Madrasa Gate:
A fragment of the former madrasa, an Islamic theological school from the Ottoman period. The gate is one of the few remaining elements of this institution in Athens. The Madrasa Gate is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the influence of Islam on Athens’ history.
Open 24/7, accessible only from the outside.
Monastirakiou Square:
A historic square in the center of Athens, known for its vibrant trade, markets, and atmosphere. It is a place where the smells of fresh produce, the sounds of street musicians, and colorful souvenir stalls blend together. Monastirakiou Square is not just a marketplace, but also a meeting point for locals and tourists, full of the life and energy of the city.
Monastiraki District:
A historic district full of landmarks, shops, and restaurants. Known for its market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to local delicacies. Monastiraki is a place where the past and present intertwine in a unique way, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in Athens:
The main Orthodox cathedral in Athens, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral. An impressive building with richly decorated interiors and beautiful icons. The cathedral is an important religious and cultural center, attracting both pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Syntagma Square:
The central square of Athens, surrounded by important government buildings, including the Greek Parliament. It is the site of the famous changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Syntagma is the political and social heart of the city, where numerous demonstrations and cultural events take place.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier:
A monument in front of the Greek Parliament, dedicated to the Greek soldiers who died in battle. It is known for the solemn changing of the guard ceremonies by the Evzones guards. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a symbol of the heroism and sacrifice of the Greek nation, evoking respect and patriotic feelings.
The changing of the guard takes place every hour. The most ceremonial one occurs every Sunday at 11:00.
National Garden:
A vast park in the center of Athens, offering an oasis of greenery and tranquility. It is an ideal place for relaxing walks, with numerous paths, fountains, and a zoo. The National Garden is a place where locals and tourists can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Opening hours: from dawn to dusk
Tickets: free entry
Panathenaic Stadium:
An ancient stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Completely built of marble, it is one of the most important sports landmarks in the world. The Panathenaic Stadium is a place where history and sports meet, attracting enthusiasts of both sports and culture.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-August) daily from 08:00 to 19:00
- Winter season (September-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Kolonaki District:
An elegant district of Athens, known for its luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. It is an ideal place for shopping and enjoying Greek cuisine. Kolonaki is a symbol of prestige and style, where fashion, art, and good food lovers come together.
Lycabettus Hill:
The highest hill in Athens, offering a spectacular view of the entire city. At the top, there is the Chapel of St. George, as well as a restaurant and an outdoor theater. Lycabettus is a place where you can feel the magic and beauty of Athens from above, while also honoring nature and history.
Lycabettus Hill is an excellent spot to admire the sunset and is extremely popular. If you want to secure the best spot or table, it’s recommended to arrive really early. Many people come up with the idea of watching the sunset from this spot, so be prepared for long queues for tickets and to get to the top.
NOTE: Cash payment at the ticket office, card payment only at the ticket machine behind the counter! The line often starts at the entrance, so you need to buy tickets first!
Opening hours:
- Daily from 09:00 to 03:00
Price:
- One way – 8€
- Round trip (Alles return – as it’s described… I’m not sure why 😅) – 10 €
Omonoia Square:
One of the oldest and most well-known places in Athens, the center of urban life. Located in the heart of the city, it is a transportation hub and a popular meeting spot. Omonoia is a place that never sleeps, bustling with life both day and night.
Omonoia Square offers many restaurants, and despite the area’s popularity, prices are affordable. It is also an excellent transfer point, where two metro lines intersect. It is only two stations away from Syntagma Square, where all metro lines converge.
Exarcheia District:
Known as the center of counterculture and youth rebellion, full of cafes, clubs, and music shops. It is also home to numerous anarchist and artistic organizations. Exarcheia is a place where freedom, art, and activism merge in a unique way, creating an alternative reality in the heart of Athens.
National Archaeological Museum:
The largest and most important archaeological museum in Greece. It houses a rich collection of artifacts from all over ancient Greece, including the famous golden masks from Mycenae. This museum is a true treasure trove of Greek history and culture, attracting archaeology and art enthusiasts from around the world.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October)
- Tuesday from 13:00 to 20:00, Wednesday to Friday from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March)
- Tuesday from 13:00 to 20:00, Wednesday to Friday from 08:30 to 15:30
Tickets:
- Regular 12€, Concessions 6€
Atena Partenos:
A reconstruction of the great statue of Athena, which once stood in the Parthenon. The original, created by Phidias, was a symbol of Athenian power and culture. Athena Parthenos is an icon of the Greek world, symbolizing wisdom, war, and justice.
Lýkeion:
The place where Aristotle founded his philosophical school, the Lyceum. It was an important intellectual center of ancient Athens, the remains of which can be visited today. Lyceion is a place where philosophy and science were shaped, inspiring successive generations of thinkers.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens:
An impressive temple dedicated to Zeus, the largest in ancient Greece. Of its 104 columns, only 15 remain today, yet the site still makes a huge impression. The Temple of Olympian Zeus was a monumental structure that was once one of the wonders of the ancient world, attracting pilgrims and participants of the Olympic Games. Despite the scaffolding, it still takes your breath away!
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Athenian Acropolis:
The symbol of Athens and Greece, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. On the Acropolis hill, you will find the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea. The Parthenon is a majestic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, built on the Acropolis in the 5th century BC. It is considered a masterpiece of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of the power of Athens. The Erechtheion is a temple on the Acropolis, known for its unique structure and famous portico with caryatids, sculpted female figures that serve as columns. The temple was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. The Temple of Athena Nike, also on the Acropolis, is a small, elegant structure from the 5th century BC. Dedicated to the goddess of victory, Athena Nike, it symbolizes the triumph of Athens in the Persian Wars. The Propylaea is the monumental entrance gateway to the Acropolis, built in the 5th century BC. It is an impressive marble structure that served as the grand entrance to the sacred hill and its many temples. The Acropolis is the most important attraction in Athens, a place of worship and art that has attracted pilgrims, tourists, and scholars from all over the world for centuries.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Roman Forum in Athens:
An ancient commercial and administrative center built by the Romans. It houses the Tower of the Winds and the ruins of Hadrian’s Agora. The Roman Forum is a place where the histories of ancient Athens and Rome converge, showcasing the multiculturalism and diversity of the city. The Tower of the Winds is an ancient structure from the 2nd century BC, functioning as a water clock, wind vane, and sundial. The octagonal tower is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Athens. The Tower of the Winds was not only a timekeeping device but also a symbol of the power and advanced technology of the ancient Greeks.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-August) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (October-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Athenian Agora:
The heart of ancient Athens, a place of meetings, trade, and political debates. It houses numerous landmarks, including the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. The Athenian Agora was the center of social and political life in the city, playing a key role in shaping Greek civilization and democracy. The Temple of Hephaestus is a well-preserved temple from the 5th century BC, dedicated to Hephaestus and Athena. Located on the Athenian Agora, it is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Greece. The Hephaesteion was a site of worship and religious rituals, as well as a testament to the outstanding architectural achievements of ancient Athens.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Hadrian’s Library:
A monumental structure from the 2nd century AD, built by Emperor Hadrian. It was not only a place for storing books but also a cultural and intellectual center. Hadrian’s Library is a place where art, science, and literature converge in one spot, attracting scholars and intellectuals from around the world.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Kerameikos:
An ancient Athenian necropolis, known for its richly decorated tombs and funerary stelae. This site played an important role in the religious and social life of Athens. Kerameikos is a testament to the passage of time and the remembrance of the deceased, remaining an important part of Athens’ cultural heritage.
Opening hours:
- Summer season (April-October) daily from 08:00 to 20:00
- Winter season (November-March) daily from 08:00 to 18:00
One Ticket for 7 Major Attractions in Athens
One of the most important things when planning to visit Athens is purchasing tickets for the famous, heavily visited attractions in advance online (if such an option is available, and it usually is). This way, you can avoid standing in line twice – once for tickets and then again for entry.
In my search for the best deals, I concluded that the best option is a combined ticket for the Athenian Acropolis and six other attractions (Lyceion, Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens, Roman Forum in Athens, Athenian Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Kerameikos). The price for this ticket is around 35 euros. You can purchase tickets on websites such as:
During the tourist season, from June to mid-September, the line to enter the Acropolis can stretch up to 2 kilometers. If you want to visit the Acropolis and avoid huge queues under the scorching sun, I recommend going outside the tourist season. I visited in mid-May, which turned out to be a great choice.
Even though I bought a ticket for the Acropolis and chose the earliest time slot, I wasn’t able to completely avoid the queue. It was about 15-20 minutes long, but by arriving at 8 a.m., I was able to use a side entrance, bypassing the organized groups.
On ticket websites, you can find various combinations, such as Acropolis + museum, museum-only tickets, or tickets with a guide. This way, everyone can find an option suited to their needs and preferences, making sightseeing in Athens even more enjoyable and efficient.
Getting Around Athens: A Practical Guide to Public Transport
Public transport in Athens is very well-developed. You can use the metro, buses, trolleybuses, and trams. Taxis, which can be ordered through the Bolt app, are also a good option.
Metro: The metro is a fast and convenient way to get to many places in the city, with frequent services. The only downside is that it can often be overcrowded.
Buses: Buses are less crowded, but their schedules are quite unpredictable. Sometimes the bus arrives earlier or later than the timetable suggests, so you have to be prepared for a bit of improvisation.
Taxis: The easiest way to catch a taxi is to stand by the road and raise your hand – they usually show up within a few minutes. The prices are reasonable.
However, I preferred using public transport. Tickets can be purchased at stations from Hellenic Train windows, in ticket machines, and from drivers. The best option is a 5-day ticket for 8.2 euros and a one-way ticket to the airport for about 9 euros. For both tickets, I paid around 17 euros. The three-day tourist ticket includes a ride to the airport, but it’s more expensive than combining the 5-day ticket with the one-way airport ticket, making the latter option more cost-effective.
Walking: Walking around Athens is very pleasant. If I didn’t have to travel a long distance or still had energy for an evening stroll home, I would opt for walking through the city. However, be cautious at pedestrian crossings, as traffic lights are often ignored by both pedestrians and drivers, and drivers don’t always drive carefully. If you decide to rent a car or scooter, it’s worth getting full insurance. The risk of scratching the vehicle or being involved in a collision is high.
Ticket prices (as of May 2024):
- 90-minute ticket: Regular 1.2€, Reduced 0.50€
- Daily ticket: Regular 4.2€, No reduced fare
- 5-day ticket: Regular 8.2€, No reduced fare
- 3-day tourist ticket: 20€, No reduced fare
- Metro from the airport: Regular 9€, Reduced 4.5€
- Round-trip metro from the airport: Regular 16€
Comfortable Accommodations in Athens: How to Find the Perfect Place to Stay
Accommodation in the center of Athens outside the tourist season is not that expensive. A double room for 10 days can be found for as little as 200 euros. For a 2-3 day stay with a private room in the center, accommodation can be found for around 60 euros. However, it’s advisable to book accommodation well in advance. When I booked a month ahead, there weren’t many cheaper options left for a private room – that’s the price for spontaneous trips. I can confidently recommend Booking.com for its wide selection of hotels and affordability.
Additional Tips for Accommodation in Athens
Location: Choosing accommodation in the center of Athens gives you easy access to the most important tourist attractions, such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and the Acropolis Museum. Good transportation connections make sightseeing convenient.
Accommodation Options: Athens offers a wide range of accommodation options – from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget hostels and private apartments. Everyone can find something suitable, regardless of their budget.
Seasonality: During the tourist season (June – September), prices can be higher, and availability may be limited. Outside the season, there are more options at lower prices. Booking in advance is key to finding the best deals.
Hostels: For budget travelers, hostels are a great option. They offer affordable beds in dormitories as well as private rooms. Many of them are located in central areas and provide additional amenities such as shared kitchens and organized tours.
Apartments: Renting an apartment can be a comfortable and economical solution, especially for families or groups of friends. Apartments often come with kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
Reviews and Ratings: Before making a reservation, it’s worth checking reviews and ratings from other travelers. Websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Airbnb offer reviews that can help you choose the right place.
Additional Costs: Be sure to check if additional fees are included in the accommodation price, such as tourist taxes, breakfast, or Wi-Fi access. Some places may charge extra for certain amenities.
In summary, accommodations in Athens are diverse and available for every budget. The key to a successful stay is booking in advance and choosing a place that best suits your needs and preferences.
How to Taste Athens: A Guide to Local Restaurants
The first rule I follow when choosing food is my nose and stomach, and the second is the number of people in the restaurant. Before traveling, I always read about recommended restaurants, but if I have to walk halfway across the city just to reach a specific place, I abandon that idea. Usually, when I feel hungry, I slowly look around for something nearby. If there’s a pleasant smell in the air and the dishes on the tables catch my eye, I enter the restaurant without hesitation.
Once I sit down, there are always two things: bread, which is added to every meal and costs an extra 0.5 euros per person, and water. If the water is bottled, it’s extra, but if it’s in a jug, it’s free.
As for Greek dishes, I recommend a variety of salads, seafood, pita, which is a staple of Greek cuisine, and the moussaka casserole.
Traditional Greek Dishes to Try:
- Souvlaki: Grilled pieces of meat (usually pork or chicken) on skewers, often served in pita with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
- Gyros: Spiced meat roasted on a vertical spit, served in pita or on a plate with various sides.
- Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, meat, and herbs.
- Spanakopita: Filo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese.
- Kleftiko: Traditional roasted lamb, often prepared with vegetables and herbs.
- Tzatziki: A yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, and olive oil, served as an appetizer or accompaniment to dishes.
- Baklava: A dessert made from filo dough, nuts, and honey, often served with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Loukoumades: Greek doughnuts, deep-fried and served with honey and cinnamon.
- Fasolada: A traditional bean soup, considered a national dish of Greece.
These dishes offer a full spectrum of flavors from Greek cuisine, which you should definitely try during your stay in Athens. On the map, I’ve marked a few restaurants recommended by travelers, including some with scenic viewpoints.
Safety Guide for Travelers in Athens
During taxi rides, make sure the meter is turned on. In the metro, there may be large crowds, so be cautious of pickpockets. Motorcycles/scooters often appear out of nowhere and ride on sidewalks – avoid accidents and always keep your eyes open. In Greece, the priority on roundabouts is given to those entering, not to those already on them. Places marked with a blue line are parking spaces for residents only.
Avoid wandering through deserted streets in the area of Karaiskaki Square, especially after dark. Tap water is not suitable for drinking, so make sure to boil it before consumption. Fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating to avoid health problems.
Here are important safety tips and potential risks to keep in mind when traveling to Athens. Although Athens itself is not considered dangerous, it’s important to stay particularly cautious on the roads and during everyday activities. Keep your eyes wide open, follow basic safety rules, and consider getting insurance when renting a vehicle.
The Jewel of the Athenian Riviera: Lake Vouliagmeni
Lake Vouliagmeni, located south of Athens in the heart of the Athenian Riviera, is a hidden gem of Greece. What makes it so special? Its waters are a natural spa, combining seawater with thermal underground springs. Additionally, the water temperature never drops below 21°C, making it possible to swim year-round.
To enjoy this natural spa, you must purchase an entrance ticket. However, it’s recommended to opt for a full-day visit to fully enjoy the lake’s benefits. Set amidst lush vegetation and towering cliffs, the lake is also home to thousands of unique Garra rufa fish, which are used in ichthyotherapy as they feed on dead skin, providing an exfoliating effect while swimming.
Ticket Prices:
- Regular ticket: Monday-Friday 16€, Saturday-Sunday 19€
- Reduced ticket: Monday-Friday 14€, Saturday-Sunday 17€
- Children under 5: Free entry
Opening hours:
- Winter season: 08:00 to 17:00
- Summer season: 07:30 to 20:00
Getting there:
- Bus line 122 from Ellinko station (Metro M2 to Ellinko station)
- By car – Parking available nearby
- By taxi – It’s best to ask about the fare in advance.
If you don’t want to spend money on an entrance ticket, there’s a free option available. Across from the entrance to Lake Vouliagmeni, you’ll find stairs leading down to a charming little rocky beach. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation in peace and quiet, although due to the rocky shore, it’s advisable to wear swimming shoes. The surroundings are stunning and provide a good alternative for those who don’t want to spend the entire day at the lake.
In conclusion, while the entrance fee is quite high, Lake Vouliagmeni is definitely worth a visit for a full day of relaxation and rest.
Places around Athens worth visiting
Ancient Port of Piraeus
This is one of the oldest ports in the world, full of history and life. It’s an ideal place for a walk to feel the spirit of ancient Greek commercial power. You can reach it by metro (line M1) from Athens or take a bus from the main train station heading towards Piraeus.
Corinth Canal
This impressive canal, built in the 19th century, offers extraordinary views and the chance to watch ships passing through it. It’s best to drive there, with a journey time of about an hour from Athens.
City of Mycenae
Mycenae is an ancient city with a rich history and cultural significance. Here, you can see the ruins of ancient buildings, including the famous Cyclopean Walls and the Royal Tombs. It’s best to rent a car or take an organized tour.
Corinth
A city full of history and legends, known for the Corinthian Acropolis and the Temple of Apollo. It’s also strategically located, offering views of the Aegean Sea and the Corinthian Gulf. It’s best to rent a car.
Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Sounion is a picturesque town by the Aegean Sea, home to the ancient Temple of Poseidon. It’s an ideal place for a sunset and to admire the ancient ruins in a beautiful seaside setting. You can drive there.
These places around Athens offer exceptional historical and scenic experiences, allowing you to explore the rich history and culture of Greece beyond the capital.
What to Bring Back from Greece?
If you’re wondering what to bring back from Greece to remind you of those beautiful moments or local flavors with just one glance, here are my suggestions:
- Olive oil: Greek olive oil is known worldwide for its excellent quality. It’s worth bringing back a bottle or two.
- Honey: Greek honey, especially from regions like Crete or the Peloponnese, is incredibly aromatic and delicious.
- Ouzo: A traditional Greek aniseed liquor, a popular choice for those who enjoy stronger spirits.
- Greek wines: Wines from regions such as Santorini, Nemea, or Naoussa are excellent. It’s worth bringing back a bottle of local wine.
- Feta and other cheeses: Greek feta is unique in flavor, and other cheeses, such as graviera, are also worth trying.
- Lavender and herb products: Lavender products, such as sachets for the wardrobe or soaps, are popular in Greece.
- Ceramics: Hand-painted dishes, vases, and other ceramic items make beautiful souvenirs and great gifts.
- Jewelry and handmade crafts: Greek jewelry, especially those inspired by ancient designs, is beautiful and unique. Handmade items, such as woven fabrics, are also interesting souvenirs.
- A figurine of your favorite Greek god: Miniatures of Greek gods make a great souvenir for mythology enthusiasts.
- Miniature buildings: Models of ancient structures, such as the Parthenon, are a perfect reminder of Greek architecture.
- Collectible magnets: Magnets are classic and always popular souvenirs that look great on a fridge.
For me, Greece is most associated with ancient buildings, olives, ouzo, and Greek gods. I brought back a mini statue of Ares and a jug with the image of Athena, two of my favorite gods, and of course, a beer opener magnet for my collection.
How to Get from Thessaloniki to Athens?
On the Thessaloniki-Athens route, there are several trains running daily as part of the Hellenic Train network. The journey takes about 5 hours, with the first trains departing early in the morning. I chose the 7:00 AM option from Thessaloniki, which got me to Athens by 12:00 PM.
There are tickets available in both first and second class, with a price difference of about 6 euros. I decided to pay the extra few euros and opt for first class. A second-class ticket costs about 40 euros, while a first-class ticket is around 48 euros. When buying tickets through intermediaries, you may pay up to 55 euros, so I recommend purchasing directly from the Hellenic Train website, which is available in both Greek and English.
First class offers more comfortable seats, folding tables, and a free bottle of water for the journey. Additionally, snacks and coffee are available for purchase in the dining car. In first class, you can expect more space and fewer people, making the journey much more comfortable.
Are you heading to Thessaloniki and don’t have a plan yet? Don’t worry! I invite you to read: Thessaloniki: (Non)Tourist City – The True Face of Greece. You’ll find a map with marked attractions and all the essential information that will allow you to fully discover this fascinating city. See for yourself the many treasures Thessaloniki holds and why it’s worth visiting!
Summary of a Three-Day Stay in Athens
Three days spent in Athens were wonderful moments during which I managed to visit all the planned places, get to know the culture, history, and people. The temperatures ranged from 25 to 30 degrees, and at times it was really hot. I recommend visiting popular sites, especially those exposed to the sun, in the morning or evening (if possible). It’s best to visit Athens outside of the tourist season (June – September) to avoid queues and crowds at busy locations. Although my visit was in May, there were still quite a few people, but it was manageable.
Greek food is delicious, and the people are very friendly and helpful. Prices in the capital are moderate, as long as you take the time to look around. Here’s my list of expenses:
- Food and drinks: 89.5 euros
- Entrance tickets to attractions: 30 euros
- Local transport: 17.2 euros
- Accommodation: 128.7 euros
- Souvenirs and other expenses: 59 euros
- Flight and train: 206.69 euros
Total: 531.1 euros
If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!
