hello
γειά σας (yah-sas)
Personalized for these inputs:
- Destination: Athens, Greece
- Trip length: 5 days
- Trip dates: None
- Travel style: family friendly
- Budget: $$$$
- Accommodation: hotel
- Activities: outdoor adventures
Key Facts
- location: Attica
- currency: Euro (€)
- religion: Christianity
- population: 664,046
- language: Greek
- electricity: 230V/50Hz, Type C, Type F?
- time zone: Eastern European Time (UTC+2)
- country code: +30
- internet access: Broadband, high-speed, widely available
- climate: Mediterranean
Useful Phrases
Language: Greek
goodbye
αντίο (an-tee-o)
yes
ναι (neh)
no
όχι (oh-hee)
how much
πόσο κοστίζει αυτό (po-so kos-tee-zee af-to)
please
παρακαλώ (pa-ra-ka-lo)
thank you
ευχαριστώ (ef-ha-ree-sto)
excuse me
συγνώμη (seeg-no-mee)
Introduction
Welcome to Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece where ancient history meets modern charm. Known as the cradle of Western civilization, Athens boasts a rich history, with iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Immerse yourself in the city's culture by exploring its museums, bustling markets, and traditional Greek tavernas.
For a family-friendly experience on a luxury budget, Athens offers a range of activities. Visit the Acropolis Museum, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Plaka neighborhood, and enjoy a sunset picnic at Lycabettus Hill. Families can also enjoy a day trip to the nearby beaches of the Athenian Riviera for a relaxing seaside retreat.
Getting There
Athens, Greece, is easily accessible by air, with Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport serving as the primary entry point. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by taxi, bus, or the metro system. It's advisable to check for any flight delays due to weather conditions during winter months, as this could affect travel plans.
For a family-friendly and luxurious experience, consider booking direct flights to Athens with reputable airlines known for comfort and amenities. Upon arrival, opt for a private car service or luxury taxi for a seamless transfer to your accommodation. Embrace the Greek hospitality by arranging for a VIP meet-and-greet service at the airport for a stress-free start to your vacation.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures soaring to around 30-35°C, making it ideal for beach trips and sightseeing. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds, great for exploring historic sites. Winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but it's still a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodations.
For outdoor adventures, spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore Athens's beautiful landscapes and enjoy various activities.
Itinerary
Day 1
Immerse in ancient history and explore the wonders of Athens' archaeological sites and ancient ruins.
Acropolis of Athens Exploration
Embark on a journey to the famous Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and other ancient structures with breathtaking views of the city below. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain!Ancient Agora Discovery
Discover the Ancient Agora of Athens, the ancient marketplace where Socrates and Plato once walked. Stroll through the ruins of temples, stoas, and the famous Hephaestus temple, immersing yourself in the history of ancient Athens.Panathenaic Stadium Visit
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Explore the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, walk on the tracks, and imagine the ancient athletic competitions that took place here.
Day 2
Enjoy a day of outdoor adventures with scenic hikes and breathtaking views of Athens and its surrounding landscapes.
Mount Lycabettus Hike
Embark on a scenic hike up Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens and the Aegean Sea. Enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings and don't forget to bring water and comfortable hiking shoes for the trail.National Garden Exploration
Explore the National Garden of Athens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Wander through botanical gardens, see ancient ruins, and spot turtles and peacocks roaming freely. A perfect place for a leisurely stroll with the family.Filopappou Hill Picnic
Have a relaxing picnic on Filopappou Hill while enjoying stunning views of the Acropolis and Athens. Find a cozy spot under the shade of olive trees, savor local Greek snacks, and soak in the beauty of the ancient monuments around you.
Day 3
Experience the charm of local neighborhoods, vibrant markets, and authentic Greek cuisine in Athens.
Monastiraki Square Exploration
Stroll through Monastiraki Square, a vibrant area in the heart of Athens known for its bustling markets, souvenir shops, and traditional Greek tavernas. Immerse yourself in the local culture, browse unique handicrafts, and sample delicious Greek street food like souvlaki and loukoumades.Plaka Neighborhood Discovery
Wander through the charming streets of Plaka, one of Athens' oldest neighborhoods, known for its neoclassical architecture, narrow alleys, and picturesque courtyards. Explore artisan shops, ancient ruins, and quaint cafes while soaking up the historic ambiance of the area.Central Market Food Tour
Embark on a food tour of Athens Central Market, a paradise for foodies offering a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and spices. Learn about Greek culinary traditions, taste local delicacies like feta cheese and olives, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market.
Day 4
Relax and rejuvenate with a day of leisure at luxurious spas and beach resorts near Athens.
Luxury Spa Experience at Astir Beach Resort
Indulge in a day of pampering at Astir Beach Resort's luxury spa. Enjoy rejuvenating massages, facials, and wellness treatments surrounded by breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Unwind and relax in a serene beachfront setting, letting go of all stress and cares.Private Beach Retreat at Vouliagmeni Beach
Escape to the exclusive Vouliagmeni Beach for a day of serenity and seclusion. Relax on the pristine sandy shores, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the Mediterranean sun in a private cabana. Experience ultimate luxury and privacy in this tranquil beach haven.Yacht Excursion to Saronic Islands
Embark on a luxurious yacht excursion to the idyllic Saronic Islands near Athens. Sail across the azure waters, visit charming islands like Aegina and Hydra, and indulge in gourmet meals and drinks on deck. Experience the ultimate relaxation and luxury aboard your private yacht.
Day 5
Embark on a family-friendly cultural exploration of Athens with visits to museums, art galleries, and cultural landmarks.
Benaki Museum Visit
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Greece at the Benaki Museum. Explore a diverse collection of Greek art, artifacts, and historical exhibits housed in a beautiful neoclassical building. Don't miss the rooftop cafe for panoramic views of Athens.Theatre of Dionysus Tour
Step back in time at the Theatre of Dionysus, the ancient Greek theater located at the foot of the Acropolis. Learn about the origins of Greek drama, marvel at the well-preserved ruins, and imagine the performances that took place in this historic amphitheater.Byzantine and Christian Museum Exploration
Delve into the Byzantine era at the Byzantine and Christian Museum in Athens. Discover a collection of religious art, icons, mosaics, and artifacts that showcase the Byzantine influence on Greek culture and history. A must-visit for art and history enthusiasts!
Accommodations
For a luxurious family-friendly stay in Athens, consider stylish hotels like Grande Bretagne, with its stunning views of the Acropolis. The King George Hotel is another great option for a high-end experience in the city center. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso in the suburbs offers a beachfront retreat with excellent amenities for families.
When booking, websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer a variety of options to suit different preferences. For a neighborhood vibe, Plaka offers a charming stay near historic sites, while Kolonaki boasts upscale boutiques and eateries. Whatever your choice, Athens has a diverse range of accommodations to make your stay memorable.
Food and Drink
In Athens, Greece, you can savor popular dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava, alongside traditional drinks like ouzo and Greek coffee. For a luxury family-friendly experience, visit Aleria Restaurant for modern Greek cuisine or Kuzina for classic Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy a relaxing coffee at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center or sample local wines at Brettos Bar, a historic distillery in Plaka.
When dining in Athens, tipping around 5-10% is considered customary. Check for seasonal specialties like fresh seafood in the summer or hearty stews in the winter. Look out for kid-friendly menus and restaurants offering beautiful rooftop views of the Acropolis for a memorable dining experience.
Moussaka
Moussaka is a hearty baked casserole dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and tomato sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked to golden perfection. It's a beloved comfort food in Greece and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food consisting of small pieces of grilled meat (often pork or chicken) skewered on a wooden stick. It's usually served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and a dollop of tangy tzatziki sauce, making it a delicious and convenient meal on the go.
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a savory Greek pastry made with crispy phyllo dough and filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. This traditional dish is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and showcases the delightful combination of flaky pastry and savory filling.
Dolmades
Dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with a seasoned mixture of rice, pine nuts, and herbs. They are often served as a meze (appetizer) and are known for their delightful balance of tangy grape leaves and fragrant, herb-infused rice, making them a delicious bite-sized treat.
Baklava
Baklava is a sweet and indulgent pastry made with layers of finely shredded phyllo dough, honey, and chopped nuts, often sprinkled with aromatic spices like cinnamon or cloves. It's a beloved dessert in Greece and embodies the rich, syrupy flavors of the Mediterranean.