The Travelista

  • Home
  • About
    • Collaborations
    • Press
    • FAQ
    • Contact
  • Travel
    • Destinations by World Map
    • Hotels
    • Airlines
    • Restaurants
    • Itineraries
  • Life
    • Yorkshire
    • Style
  • Motherhood
  • Inspire Me
    • Adventure
    • Beach
    • City
    • Culture
    • Mountain
    • Tropical
  • Shop
    • E-mail
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

15 Reasons to Visit Athens on a City Break

21/03/17 ᛫ 8 Comments

Let me set the scene. Before January this year I had never once thought about visiting Athens on a European city break. It hasn’t been a long-standing competitor of my bucket list, and beyond the famous Acropolis, I didn’t know much at all about the Greek capital city. Fast forward to March and it’s a whole different story. After a recommendation from a part-Greek friend, I decided to visit Athens for myself to check out the city she spoke so highly of – and guess what? The city exceeded every single one of my expectations. Here are 15 reasons to visit Athens.

the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens-acropolis2

Athens isn’t one of the first places that springs to mind when you think of city break destinations. But if you’re willing to think outside the box with me, you will be rewarded with a sun-soaked, culture-filled and effortlessly cool city break. Let me explain…

Reasons to Visit Athens on a City Break

  1. The Acropolis

It would be a crime to start this list with anything other than The Acropolis of Athens; the rugged hilltop citadel, which dramatically towers above the city. The most iconic part of The Acropolis is The Parthenon, which was originally a temple built as a place to worship Athen’s ruler, the Goddess Athena. Dating all the way back to 447 BC, the history of this place is mind-bending. But even if you’re not that into the facts, it’s worth coming up here for the breath-taking 360 degree views of Athens. This has to be one of the biggest reasons to visit Athens.
 the-acropolis-erechtheion-athens-greece

the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens-acropolis3

  1. The Rooftop Bars 

What isn’t immediately apparent about Athens is its incredible rooftop bar scene. They’re scattered around the city, each one providing a different perspective of the spectacular Acropolis. Visit by day to soak up the sunshine or arrive at night to listen to DJs and see The Acropolis lit up in all its glory. Often hidden away, the rooftop bars of Athens make up a secret social scene that only the locals and savvy travellers know about. A visit to some rooftop bars is a must on any city break to Athens.

  1. The Friendly Locals

I’ve always thought that the Greeks are very friendly as a nation of people, but I didn’t know if this friendliness would transcend into its bustling capital city. But the locals in Athens seem just as friendly, chatty and just as willing to help as those in the sleepy Greek islands.

the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens2

  1. The Old Town of Plaka

No European city break would be complete without a stroll through a charming Old Town, right? Plaka is Athen’s Old Town and easily the most picturesque neighbourhood. Imagine cobbled streets, historical architecture, sun-drenched piazzas and restaurants with white and blue table-cloths. Andrianou is the main shopping street in Plaka and is lined with boutique stalls and souvenir shops. Venture to the end of this street and you’ll find a strip of great restaurants too.

plaka-athens1

  1. The Flea Market

The flea market is one of the best reasons to visit Athens for anyone that loves anything on the quirky side. The weird and wonderful selection of objects are as random as they come, many of which are vintage and antiques. If you want to pick up a Greek souvenir that is truly unique, the flea market is where to come.

athens-flea-market

athens-flea-market1

  1. The Delicious Greek Food

The Greek food alone is reason enough to plan a city break to Athens. You’ll be feasting on fresh Greek salads, succulent Souvlakis, fresh calamari, grilled meats, tszaziki, mousakka and more. The list of mouth-watering Greek dishes is endless and the quality of produce in Athens is high. There’s also something in the air that make tomatoes in Greece 10 times more delicious and flavoursome than anything in the UK.
 reasons-to-visit-athens-greek-salad

fried-feta-with-honey-greek-food

  1. The Coffee Culture

The Greeks take their coffee seriously and coffee culture is a part of the way of life in Athens. Instead of a beer, friends meet up for coffee and can spend hours in one of the many artisan coffee shops. It’s a pleasure to be enjoyed slowly. No trip to Athens is complete without ordering the Freddo Cappucinno, an iced coffee with sweetened milk and foam on top. Heaven!

freddo-coffee-athens

360-rooftop-bar-athens-greece

  1. Anafiotika

Until recent years the sleepy hillside village of Anafiotika went by unnoticed by tourists, but now the secret is out. Located just below The Acropolis hill, this tiny village is more reminiscent of a rural Greek island than a capital city. Get lost amongst the labyrinth of narrow alleyways that connect the whitewashed houses.

Top Tip: Locals live in Anafiotika and the increase in visiting tourists has caused an issue with noise pollution. Be a mindful traveller and try to keep the noise down as you explore this beautiful village.

  1. The Souvlaki Shops

The Souvlaki shops in Athens need no introduction. They’re Greece’s answer to a kebab, but far more tasty and fresh. Succulent grilled meat is served up with salad in a warm toasted pitta. Perfect for on the go, incredibly cheap (about 3 euros) and utterly delicious. The shops stay open late so if you’re need of a late night snack this is where to go. I could write a separate blog post about all the foodie reasons to visit Athens too!
 athens-souvlaki-greek

  1. The Al Fresco Culture

Inside Athens’ many piazzas and squares you’ll find an endless choice of al-fresco cafes and restaurants. Outdoor living is the way of life in Athens and you’ll never be short of places to stop for a drink on a city break in Athens.
 the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens4

greek-flag-acropolis-greece-athens

  1. The Ancient History

Athens is one of the oldest cities on earth. It’s where ancient civilisation began and where democracy was born. It’s the home of the Greek gods and goddesses you learned about in school and every monument and ruin plays a part in the city’s fascinating history. If Athens can’t capture your historical imagination, nowhere can.

reasons-to-visit-athens1
the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens-acropolis

  1. The Gelato

Although gelato may be synonymous to Italy, the Greeks do a pretty good job of it too. Head to Plaka for the best choice of Gelato shops where you can choose from an incredibly creative selection of gelato flavours.
 gelato-athens-greece

  1. The Walking Tours

Athens is best explored on foot, so pack your comfiest shoes and book yourself on to a walking tour. My sister and I did a bespoke walking tour with Athens Insiders and it was without doubt a highlight of the trip. All of their tours are tailor-made to you so they’ll theme their tour around your interests e.g. history, gastronomy or fashion. Our local guide showed us all of the hidden gems of Athens including Anafiotika, which we wouldn’t have found on our own.

the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens

anafiotika-athens-greece1

  1. The Open Top Buses

It’s not particularly cool or unique, but an open bus tour of Athens is so much fun! If your feet start to tire from all the walking, an open top bus tour is the perfect way to spend the final day of your city break in Athens. This is what my sister and I did and we got to see some extra sights including the Panathenaic Stadium.

open-top-bus-tour-athens-greece

athens-greece

  1. The Museums

If you’re a culture vulture, then Athens is a dream destination for you. There are so many museums it would be impossible to get around them all in just one trip. Make sure that The Acropolis Museum, The Museum of Gastronomy, The Museum of Cycladic Art and The National Archaeology Museum are all high on your list. But really, it’s all down to personal interest.

the-acropolis-museum-athens

From the ancient history to trendy rooftop bars and coffee culture, Athens is a thriving city that has all the right attributes for a dream city break. I can’t believe it took me so long to discover this vibrant, friendly and culture-filled city. I’m so glad I found it, and I would return in a heartbeat.

the-travelista-blog-jess-gibson-athens

SHOP THE POST

What did you think of these 15 reasons to visit Athens on a city break? Are you thinking of visiting Athens or has this post inspired you to do so? If you enjoyed reading this, please leave me a comment in the box below. X

Want to read more on Athens? Look out for my Athens City Guide.


 For more on information on Greece, visit DiscoverGreece.com

 Check out Aegean Airline’s low fare finder for their lowest available air fares to Athens. 


Disclaimer: My trip to Greece was provided complimentary on behalf of Discover Greece. All views are my own.

the-travelista-travel-blog-jess-gibson-athens-acropolis4

8 Comments

Related Posts

  • Spa and Sea Fu at The Four Seasons Dubai
  • How to Spend A Day in Siena, Italy
  • 9 Things to do on a Hen Party in Milan
« A Mother-Daughter Day out in Leeds
Boutique Bliss at The New Hotel, Athens »

Comments

  1. Hayley says

    22nd March 2017 at 12:32 pm

    Girl I LOVE this post – I followed your trip on Instagram and it looked so bloody wonderful! (the weather looked incredible too!). Athens was never really on my radar, but it definitely is now after reading this! 🙂

    Hayley xo
    http://www.frockmeimfamous.com

    Reply
    • Jessica says

      23rd March 2017 at 3:56 pm

      Hey girl – I am so pleased to read that Athens is now on your travel radar! The weather was just heavenly and it’s such a cool underrated city. Thanks for following along xx

      Reply
  2. Anastasia (@Natbeesfashion) says

    22nd March 2017 at 11:28 am

    I am so jealous right now! All my friends fly back home (Greece) for Easter while I am stuck in bloody Aberdeen with my PhD. Thank you so much for sharing this and for mentioning a few of the best things about Athens!

    xo
    Anastasia
    http://www.natbees.com/

    Reply
    • Jessica says

      24th March 2017 at 5:04 pm

      Hi Anastasia! Thanks for your comment. Keep up the hard work with the PHD! Greece will always be there and waiting for you! I’m sure you’re due some well deserved sunshine soon xxx

      Reply
  3. Angie Silver (@SilverSpoonLDN) says

    22nd March 2017 at 9:42 am

    I definitely think more about Mykonos and Santorini when it comes to visiting Greece but this post has me keen to get on the plane to Athens!

    Reply
    • Jessica says

      31st March 2017 at 4:43 pm

      They are the obvious choices for sure Angie! But so glad I’ve got you thinking about a trip to Athens 🙂

      Reply
  4. Vicky Kingsnorth says

    22nd March 2017 at 9:25 am

    I love Athens too! But the only reason I went was because it was where I had to get my flight to another greek island from here and we decided to stay for 2 days. I’m so glad we did. It’s a beautiful city and the history is just incredible! x

    Reply
    • Jessica says

      31st March 2017 at 4:44 pm

      Hi Vicky! You definitely made a good choice. I think this is how lots of people end up visiting Athens, but really 2 days isn’t long enough to do it justice! I think 3-4 days is perfect for a leisurely trip. I agree the history is just crazy! xx

      Reply

Spark a conversation! Cancel reply

Jess is an an award-winning travel blogger based in Yorkshire, navigating the world as a new Mum to baby Theo. Blogging about adventures both local and global.

Read More

Booking.com

Subscribe

Never Miss a Post!

Latest Posts

The Best Places to Stay in Florence

Woolacombe Beach

A Toddler-Friendly Holiday in North Devon

Our Mini Adventures: 5 Family Friendly Days Out in Yorkshire

Follow on Instagram

Post nap relaxation. My son is a vibe #BeMoreTheo Post nap relaxation. My son is a vibe #BeMoreTheo 💫
“Are you going to have another?”, asked a well “Are you going to have another?”, asked a well-meaning family member, out of the blue. Another cup of coffee? Another what? It could have been anything, but I knew exactly what they meant. Another baby. The question that fills me with dread.

It seems like when your first child enters toddlerhood, there is a societal expectation, or assumption, that all mothers are yearning for the next one. For me, that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Why assume there will be a next one? For many, one is enough.

After extreme prematurity, neonatal surgeries, a 3.5 month NICU stay, post natal anxiety, PTSD and a global pandemic, motherhood has well and truly consumed me, challenged me and changed me.

I feel like there is so much we still have to experience with Theo. He is a healthy and happy little boy ready to see the world. But it’s not just about Theo. 

I am working hard on my own personal development and having further therapy for my trauma. I am healing and reconnecting with parts of old myself. I want to write a book! I am unapologetically making myself a priority again. 

Having another baby is not a priority right now, and perhaps it never will be. All I know is that this little boy and his Daddy complete me and they are all I need. 

Now that restrictions are slowly lifting, we are ready to start living our best life and making memories that go beyond the local playground, as a family of 3.

Female adult life isn’t all about having babies. There is so much more available to us now.

Please always be careful when asking people about their family plans. You don’t always know what they’ve been through, or are going through. 

Have you ever been asked a similar question and how did you deal with it? I’d love to know 💭🌿
Happy Easter everyone 🐣💫 Just a post to appr Happy Easter everyone 🐣💫 Just a post to appreciate this mini egg cheesecake, delivered to our door by @nowtbutcheesecakes. I can’t wait to devour a slice with family in the garden.  #SupportLocal 

(@nowtbutcheesecakes is an amazing local business in Leeds and this is the third time we’ve ordered from them)
Now that Theo is talking, soon we will talk about Now that Theo is talking, soon we will talk about the scars on his tummy. I will tell him that they are something to be proud of. I will tell him that they are special. I will tell him that they make him unique. He will learn that anyone with a scar is very lucky because it means they are stronger than whatever it is they had to fight. I will make sure he knows all about his extraordinary journey 🤍

Theo had a total of 3 bowel surgeries all before 35 weeks gestation due to #NecrotisingEnterocolitis (NEC). NEC is the most common gastrointestinal emergency occurring in preterm babies and is what could have taken his life.

His scars are the reason he is alive today and remind me of his bravery and strength. 🌿

Adapted post from 2019

#behindthescars #25Weeker
A year on since lockdown, and look at how you’ve A year on since lockdown, and look at how you’ve grown.

Each day has felt so long, but the entire year has flown.

Your world has been so small, if these four walls could talk.

I cannot wait to show you, life is more than muddy walks.

I want to show you freedom, a new adventure every day.

My mind can only imagine, how much you’d love soft play.

Now you’ve entered toddlerhood, you’re a whirlwind, a burst of thunder.

Soon we will do new things, that light your face with wonder.

You started lockdown as a baby, now you’re a boy with wild hair.

My sweet son, I promise you, there’s an entire world out there 🍃🌍

Sketch by my talented Mum @veryanart1
🤍 Happy Mothers Day 🤍 This wild ride calle 🤍 Happy Mothers Day 🤍 

This wild ride called motherhood gets better and better with time. I am beyond proud and grateful to be this little boys Mummy ✨

Subscribe

Never miss a post! Subscribe for Travelista updates and newsletters

Latest Video

  • 3847likes
  • 19680followers
  • 10332followers
  • 1910subscribers

Copyright © 2021 · Design by Gatto

Copyright © 2021 · The Travelista on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

  • Privacy Policy
  • FAQ
  • Contact