24 Hours In Central Athens

The fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens, bounded on three sides by Mount Hymettus, Mount Parnitha and Mount Pentelicus, apart from Parthenon’s 2500-year-old honey-color marble columns, has much more to offer.

If you have only 24 hours to explore Athens, the beautiful Greek capital city where tradition is exceptionally juxtaposed with modernity, here is a great way to spend the day.

The view of the Acropolis suffused with the light of the morning sun’s rays is the best starting point for a fascinating sightseeing tour of the city center. The neoclassical café Athinaion Politeia is the best place to taste the flavors of an original Greek breakfast. Address:  Athinaion Politeia, 1 Akamantos & Apostolou Pavlou, Thiseio, Athens

Abandon yourself in the disparate colors, scents and sounds of the labyrinthine corners of an area that is nestled under the ancient Acropolis. Browse among the secondhand books, haggle over the price of the antiques, wander through the open-air market stores and try a souvlaki at Bairaktaris Restaurant. Address: Bairaktaris, 63 Metropolis & 88 Metropolis, Monastiraki, Athens

Well-frequented shops, cafes, street vendors and artists crown the length of Ermou Street.  Mitropoleos Street, on the other hand, is a jewel among the architectural creations of the 20th century.  

Visiting the Acropolis Museum Restaurant, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Acropolis and the historic hills of Athens. The restaurant offers a great variety of tasty dishes that are based on authentic Greek recipes.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (every Friday the restaurant remains open until 12 midnight), Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

To read more, please visit: Greek Reporter

by Katerina Papathanasiou