Local’s Guide: short trip to Athens
Quick Tips
I recommend taking the subway or train to get around, bus service is usually delayed and takes a long time
Taxis are quite affordable, but make sure the driver is using a taximeter to avoid being overcharged
The city is so easy to navigate for downtown activities and sightseeing, but for beaches and seaside views, you will need to take the subway and taxi
Shopping in Athens is much more affordable than on the islands, and you can find everything you need in the center of Athens
Kolonaki area offers more high end shopping experiences with big brand names
Make sure to go to bakeries and try local pastries
Late at night, you should go to rooftop bars, as they are not like nightclubs, but rather very chill with an amazing ambiance and view of the Acropolis
Activities
Marina Floisvos in Paleo Faliro
https://www.greeka.com/attica/athens/sightseeing/flisvos-marina/
There are many great restaurants, bars, hookah lounges, and scenic walks in the area. I recommend going early evening so you can see the sunset and avoid the heat of the day.
Vouliagmeni
https://www.thisisathens.org/neighbourhoods/vouliagmeni-guide
The area around here is by far my favorite in Athens, the views are magnificent, it is quieter and more laidback than other areas, but at the same time it is also quite upscale.
Spend a full day there, get some breakfast at a bakery and then head to Vouliagmeni Plaz, where you will have to pay for entrance to the organized beach, but you will receive sunbeds and umbrellas for free.
There are also water sports available in that area if you are interested.
If you have a choice of restaurants, you should go to Sardelaki, which is about five to ten minutes walk from the Plaz, has amazing food and a great view. You can also go for gelato or ice cream waffles near the restaurant.
In addition, Vouliagmeni has a number of very nice bars for the evening, located all within a short walking distance.
Cine Thissio
Check out what movies and times are scheduled at this outdoor open movie theater near the Acropolis. Even if you don't like the movie, you should still go just for the ambience. There is a concessionaire that sells wine, food, and snacks. The walk around the Acropolis and the ruins is so picturesque.
Acropolis museum
https://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en
I strongly recommend you visit the museum since it is relatively new, modern, and a remarkable experience. Spend a few hours in the museum and have breakfast there as well. If you can choose between hike the Parthenon or visit the museum, consider the weather and the amount of time you have.
Sounion and Temple of Poseidon
https://whyathens.com/temple-of-poseidon/
Those are the best beaches and waters in Athens. Vouliagmeni's waters are fine, but Sounio is like being on an island.
Taxis are available, or you may take the subway until Elliniko station and then take a taxi from there. It is quite a distance from downtown but well worth the trip.
You can spend the day on the beach, it is usually a mix of families and tourists, and you can get lunch at one of the restaurants that are located right on the beach.
After that, head to the Temple of Poseidon, which you can view from the beach as well, but since you are there, you should take the time to step up close to see it in person. At this site, you can also see beautiful sunsets.
Anafiotika Athens
https://www.highheelsandabackpack.com/anafiotika-athens/
It is an absolute must to eat dinner here when you are staying in downtown.
The name Anafiotika is derived from the island Anafi, which some call it the “small Santorini”. It gives the impression of being on a Greek island while being in the heart of Athens!
Take a stroll around and select a coffee shop, restaurant, or bar. I recommend having a late dinner at one of the taverns up the steps (you can see it as you walk around). Many evenings they have traditional live Greek music to enjoy.
In downtown, there would usually be live music in the restaurants in the evenings, which is something you should definitely experience.
