The Athens City Guide

Sightseeing
Acropolis / Plaka

Acropolis

Reservation recommended
Tania's Pick
David's Pick

The "jewel of the world". You have to at least have seen it once in your lifetime, a bit like the Eiffel tower. It's worth it. Best go first thing in the morning or at the end of the day, otherwise it's too hot. And also book tickets online with a time slot, so you don't have to wait in queue!

Best access through the southern slope. You have to walk up anyway, might as well see the Dionysos & Odeon theaters along the way.

Sightseeing
Acropolis / Plaka

Areopagus Hill (Arios Pagous)

David's Pick

A rocky hill with great views of Acropolis and the urban landscape of Athens. Perfect spot to watch the sunset. It's free and open to the public, so you can go anytime. As always best to avoid the hot hours of the day. Just before sunset is perfect. And be extra careful, the rocks a very slippery! Wear decent shoes and move carefully.

Snacks / Sweets
Koukaki

Django Gelato Athens

€€
Tania's Pick
Vegan friendly

Boutique Ice Cream shop offering many unique flavors. 100% natural, handmade gelatos and sorbets only from the finest and seasonal ingredients. They follow the Zero Waste and Slow Food movements and produce fresh every day.

Sightseeing
Acropolis / Plaka

Filopappou Hill

Tania's Pick

A somewhat wild park adjacent to Acropolis that's great for a stroll, especially at sunset. Give's you impressive views of the Athens skyline up to the sea and on Acropolis.

Shopping
Acropolis / Plaka

Flâneur Souvenirs & Supplies

€€
David's Pick

Cute little souvenier shop which focuses on small greek designers and brands. Check out their instagram to get an idea of their selection.

Shopping
Exarchia

Kallidromiou Farmers' Market (only Saturday)

David's Pick

A very typical Laiki (farmer's market) in the heart of Exarchia. Only on Saturdays, this is a great way to start your day, have a coffee in one of the cafés in this street (e.g. Café Paraskinio) and watch the hustle and bustle. Also a good opportunity to buy some typical greek, inexpensive gifts for your friends & family at home, like greek mountain tea or oregano and other spices (low weight, easy to fly :). Thank me later.

Café
Acropolis / Plaka

Little Tree Books and Coffee

David's Pick
Veggie friendly
Breakfast / Brunch

Cute little neighborhood café & bookshop (as the name suggest). Also have a small selection of english books. Perfect before or after conquering Acropolis as it is in walking distance but away from the touristic crowds.

They serve some small dishes like sandwiches, breakfast and cakes.

Snacks / Sweets
Acropolis / Plaka

Takis Bakery

David's Pick
Veggie friendly

Cute little neighborhood bakery offering a selection of small savoury snacks like spinach pie and sweets. Good if you want something quick to go. Don't go too late in the day as they may have sold out on many things already. Within walking distance from Acropolis.

Restaurant
Acropolis / Plaka

Taverna Saita

€€
Reservation recommended
Veggie friendly
David's Pick

Decent Taverna in the Heart of Athens. Hearty, homecooked dishes at fair prices and friendly service. In the warmer months you can sit outside, in the Winter it's downstairs in the cozy basement. During busier months with many tourists it is recommended to call to reserve a table.

Restaurant
Syntagma / Center

Vegan Beat Athens

Vegan friendly

Greek Fast Food but make it vegan. Souvlaki, Burgers, Greek Salad and other classics without harming any beings.