Things To Do On Your Own
Bucket List
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey filled with unforgettable experiences and cultural exploration? Look no further than our Bucket List!!
- If you happen to be in Athens during Easter weekend, don’t miss the Easter Vigil. Every Good Friday, thousands upon thousands of people form a procession throughout the city, all holding lit candles. Head to Lycabettus Hill and join the crowds ascending to the St. George church.
- Stroll through Anafiotika, a 19th-century neighborhood built into the northern side of the Acropolis hill. This place embodies the feel of the Greek islands with whitewashed walls, shuttered windows, and tiny sidewalk cafes.
- Hit the beach! The closest beaches to the center of Athens are in Glyfada and Alimos, just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) south of Athens center. They offer beaches with clear water, sand and pebbles, and have a good selection of restaurants to choose from.
- For one of the best panoramic views of Athens, make the climb up Lycabettus Hill, the city’s highest point. Whether you hike the pine-covered trails or take the funicular partway, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Acropolis, the Aegean Sea, and the city stretching in every direction. At the top, you'll also find the charming whitewashed Chapel of St. George and a hilltop café perfect for sunset. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to see Athens from a new perspective, literally!
Shopping
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Visit the Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora) to wander, people watch, and sample the local delicacies
- Spend a Sunday at the Monastiraki Square Flea Market and pick up some unique and hard-to-find Greek souvenirs.
- Indulge your inner foodie at Evripidou Street. Running just beyond the Central Market, filled with thousands of vendors selling herbs, spices, sacks of dried tea, and nuts and is favorite for many famous Greek chefs.
- Hemou Street is a local favorite for affordable, everyday shopping in Athens. Lined with small boutiques, discount stores, cafes, and bakeries, it offers a more authentic, residential vibe compared to the city’s tourist-heavy shopping areas. It’s a great place to find basics, seasonal items, or grab a coffee while exploring a typical Athenian neighborhood. Perfect for students looking for budget-friendly options or a more local shopping experience.
Eating
- Try spanakopita (a flaky and savory pastry with spinach and cheese) at Ariston.
- Grab a mouth-watering souvlaki (Greek's fast food) at Lefteris O Politis.
- Sip on delicious specialty coffee's at the Caffeine Dealer cafe in Koukaki.
Day Trips
Corinth
Known for its ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Archaic Theatre, Corinth is a great option for those interested in Greek history.
Agistri and Moni Islands
These islands offer a peaceful escape from the city, with crystal-clear waters, stunning scenery, and a chance to visit three unique islands in one day. With fewer crowds and a customizable itinerary, this day trip is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Greece.
Poros Island
Just about an hour from Athens by ferry, Poros Island makes for a perfect day trip escape. Known for its charming harbor, neoclassical buildings, and relaxed island vibe, Poros offers quiet beaches, waterfront cafés, and scenic walks through pine-covered hills. It’s an easy and affordable way to experience the beauty of the Greek islands without straying too far from the city — ideal for a sunny weekend adventure!
Spetses Island
Escape the bustle of Athens with a day trip to Spetses, a charming and elegant island known for its rich naval history, pine-covered landscapes, and car-free streets. Just a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus Port, Spetses offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty. Stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with neoclassical mansions, rent a bike or horse-drawn carriage to explore the island, and enjoy a leisurely swim at one of the crystal-clear beaches like Agia Marina or Kaiki. With its relaxed pace and timeless atmosphere, Spetses makes for a refreshing and memorable getaway from the mainland.
Weekend Trips
Thessaloniki
Greece's second-largest city and is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine.
Saronic Islands
A group of beautiful islands in the Saronic Gulf, known for their stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
Kea
A breathtaking island in the Cyclades, known for its rugged landscape and traditional villages.
Cyclades Islands
The Cyclades offer a range of unforgettable island experiences just a short ferry ride away. Discover Andros, a hidden gem known for its lush landscapes, hiking trails, and quiet beaches. Explore Syros, the cultural heart of the Cyclades, where neoclassical architecture and vibrant local life meet in elegant Ermoupoli. Tinos enchants with its artistic villages, traditional marble craftsmanship, and spiritual significance. For a livelier vibe, head to Mykonos, famous for its whitewashed alleys, stunning beaches, and iconic nightlife.