Athens
April represents the time when my relationship with đẹp trai goes full circle year-round and, by a happy twist of fate, it’s also my parents' wedding anniversary. That calls for a celebration! So we wanted to weave together good family time and romance in the best way possible: cruising through the enchanting Greek islands and visiting Athens at the same time! With their striking white and blue colours, ancient ruins and beautiful sunsets, it was a perfect spot for us lovebirds.
Named after the goddess Athena, Athens was the hub of ancient Greece and stands today as its vibrant capital. It's fascinating to see how modern life has seamlessly woven itself around the remnants of the Classical era.
Stay
Astor Hotel: Located in the heart of Syntagma, staying here put us in the perfect location for our first and final days in Athens. It made exploring nearby shopping streets like Ermou and the historic Plaka neighbourhood completely effortless, with top-rated neighbourhood dining right outside our doorstep.
Activities Between wandering through historic neighbourhoods and taking in ancient ruins, we immersed ourselves in classical history and local architecture:
The Acropolis of Athens: Perched atop a high, rocky outcrop, this iconic citadel served both religious and strategic purposes in ancient times. Today, you can still admire the remnants of its classical architectural styles, meticulous design, and stunning marble work, most notably the Parthenon.
The Agoras: Right in the city center and just a short walk apart, you can explore two historical public spaces side by side: the Ancient Agora (dating back to the 6th century BC) and the Roman Forum (1st century BC). It’s an incredible opportunity to admire Classical Greek and Roman architecture together.
Hadrian's Library: Constructed in the 2nd century AD under Roman Emperor Hadrian, this was once the largest library in Athens, complete with a pool in the middle!
Plaka Neighbourhood: Known as the "Neighbourhood of the Gods" due to its proximity to the Acropolis, this oldest neighbourhood in Athens brings the charm and ambience of the Greek Islands right into the heart of the city. It's an ideal spot for wandering and shopping for souvenirs and linen.
Ermou Street: Stretching from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki, this lively pedestrian street is lined with international brands, designer boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Eats From rooftop views of the lit-up Acropolis to cozy neighbourhood taverns, dining in Athens was an absolute highlight:
Dionysos Zonars: Perfect for fine dining with an unforgettable view. The tall windows look directly out to the lit-up Acropolis, paired with great food, exceptional service, and a complimentary house digestive to end the evening.
To Neoklassiko: Located right next to our hotel, this top-rated spot was our very first meal of the trip. The gyros provided total comfort after checking in, and it introduced us to mastiha, a delicious Greek liquor I became instantly obsessed with bringing home!
Geros Tou Moria Restaurant: A rustic spot set under vine canopies along the stairways leading to the Acropolis. Known for excellent seafood, live music, and friendly staff, including the owner's cat, who comfortably joined me for lunch!
Ella Greek Cooking: An urban Greek restaurant with a sleek, minimalist vibe. I took a chance and tried moussaka here for the very first time, and it was executed flawlessly.
O Thanasis: A bustling tavern right in the Monastiraki neighbourhood, perfect for authentic local dishes amidst the energy of the flea market area.
Kalimeres: Tucked away in Psiri near Monastiraki Square, this cozy spot was ideal for brunch. Ordering the burrata on a bed of cherry tomatoes with pesto was sheer perfection.
Ellyz Cafe: Famous for its giant pink flower crown doorway, every treat on the menu incorporates rose or pink aesthetics. Beyond its Instagrammable look, the cake slices are huge; mine was easily a generous 4-inch piece!
Athens proved to be so much more than just a passing stop. It was the absolute perfect introduction to Greece before stepping aboard our cruise, and coming back to wrap up our trip here made for an unforgettable outro. From historic ruins to cozy dinners, it tied every memory together beautifully.
