“Greece was a muse. It inspired creativity in magical ways that I can’t even begin to understand or explain.” – Joe Bonamassa
A weekend in Athens, - will never disappoint!
“Athens, Greece, with its famous Acropolis, has come to symbolize the whole of the country in the popular imagination, and not without cause. It not only has its iconic ruins and the famous port of Piraeus but, thanks to ancient writers, its history is better documented than most other ancient Greek city-states.
The city began as a small community of the Mycenaean Civilization (c. 1700-1100 BCE) and grew into a city that, at its height, was associated with the development of democracy, philosophy, science, mathematics, drama and literature, art, and many other aspects of world culture and civilization including the Olympic Games” (Mark, J. 2021)
Two Days in Athens, Greece ? - No problem!
Where to Stay? (Personal Recommendations!)
Hotel Grand Bretagne, Athens
The ultimate 5 star luxury experience in the heart of Athens with a fabulous view of the Acropolis from the rooftop restaurant. A Marriott hotel ranging in price from 600Euro in September 2023*
*correct at time of writing
Amalia Hotel, Athens
A fantastic 4 star hotel in a prime location for a short trip of exploring around central Athens. All of the amenities you will need and very friendly staff! Price ranging from 200 Euro in September 2023 *
*correct at time of writing
Amalia Hotel Athens Rooms And Rates - Guest Reservations
Day One Itinerary
Visit the Acropolis
Visit Acropolis in Athens | A Complete Guide (acropolis-tickets.com)
Naturally, - the first thing on your checklist for ancient Athens is visiting the Acropolis in all of its glory. Now, although their are countless forms of structured walking tours, online tour meet ups etc, the Acropolis is easily accessible by foot from the city centre and small enough to navigate solo. Do not be afraid to go it alone! I was delighted that I made the decision to get up early to be on the Acropolis hill for sunrise. As I was there during the Winter months, sunrise coincided with the gates opening hours of 8am so it was perfect! Entrance from the Southeast side of the hill was easily side posted from the city centre with a short 15/20 minute walk from the hotels listed above. I purchased my ticket in advance online and purchased an audio tour which was easily used and allowed me to wander around the great site at ease. I used Headout: Things To Do, Attractions, Tours, Events & Experiences. As some of the main attractions have narrow walkways, it can get quite crowded during group tour visit times, which appeared around 10am. (Very glad to be on the way down at that stage!) For those history lovers, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Propylaia and the Parthenon will be everything that you thought it would be!
The Walk back to the city centre….
Visit The Acropolis Museum
Visit The Arch of Hadrian & Historic Ruins
Visit Syntagma Square
End your early morning adventures back in Syntagma Square with a walk around the Parliament building and bear witness to the changing of the guard which takes place every hour in the traditional format of the Evzones. Every Sunday morning at 11am there is a parade with the official changing of the guard ceremony.
Ermou street off Syntagma Sq is a packed with shopping district with an abundance of eateries to spend an evening admiring the hustle and bustle of busy Athens
Day Two Itinerary
Tight on time? - Open Bus Tour
Hop on an open bus tour from Syntagma Square (usually starting around 8.30am) and explore the different routes of Athens. There are four routes with over 35 stops included! The historic routes including stops such as, Acropolis Museum, The National Gallery and the Ancient Olympic Stadium, versus the beach lines have just about something for everyone!
Book Athens Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour | 2023 (hop-on-hop-off-tickets.com)
Why not spend an evening at one of Athens' beautiful golden stretches of beach?
A short taxi drive from the city centre will bring you to golden sands and clear blue waters with beach bars and the perfect place for an evening of relaxing.
Looking for a little more excitement? Why not rent a yacht / boat from the marina for an evening of luxury!
Did you even know Athens’ was the perfect city & beach break? What more could you want!
Athens in imagery…
“Greece was a muse. It inspired creativity in magical ways that I can’t even begin to understand or explain.” – Joe Bonamassa
Until Next Time…
S x