A for Athens
Athens is astonishing, layered with centuries of history and the modern Greece, it is also a crowded city but somehow it all works!
The Basics
Where: Athens, Greece
When did we travel: Summer (July 2025)
Why this trip: To attend a friend's wedding and celebrate our 1st anniversary and use it as an opportunity to see a new place - a place I had only ever heard stories about!
First impressions
Athens was one of the most welcoming cities I have been to. From the very first step out of the aircraft, I was welcomed by a warm breeze that instantly calmed me and made me feel at peace. It was as-if the city was welcoming me. There was warm, a soft hum of an energy, and an unexpected calm. Almost, as though a happy, living spirit was quietly keeping me company and taking me through the city.
The Greeks were the most helpful, kind people I have met. They greeted us with warmth and loving welcome and helped us through the travel.
What worked
- The history: You can’t escape it and you shouldn’t try either. I instantly felt like I had stepped into ancient Greece and you can almost feel the energy of the Goddess Athena watching over the modern Greece. Walking past ruins on your way to dinner never got old.
- The food: Simple, fresh, and consistently good. Having travelled in the summer, the greek salads hit just the right spot! It definitely became a staple in every meal we had. It’s hard to have a bad meal in Athens.
- The views: From the Acropolis the views just make you pause and take it all in! You can literally see the layers of the city from there. From the Ancient Greece that gets more modern with every step you down the hill you take.
- The energy: Warm, welcoming, lively without ever feeling rushed!
What didn’t
- The heat: Athens does not joke around when it comes to temperature. There is a gentle breeze that will stop you from feeling suffocated but it's very, very hot. And midday sightseeing can be a tough. Although I didn't regret the visit to the Acropolis at midday, but I did couple it with a refreshing meal straight after.
- The crowds: Popular sites are popular for a reason - they are breathtaking! But it can require patience and a good supply of hydration (refillable water bottles are a must!).
The standout moment
Heading to the outskirts of Athens and watching the sunset over the sea and water! They call it "the golden hour" for a reason. It was almost as if a blanket of gold had been placed on top of the views.
Who is Athens for?
Athens is for travellers who like their cities full of contrast.
If you enjoy history but with a layer of modern city, this is a place for you. If you enjoy the liveliness but never feeling rushed, this is a place for you. If you enjoy the heat of summer but the refreshed feeling of a greek salad with Freddo coffee, this is a place for you.
Athens is a place that feels alive rather than polished and will give you a lot back.
Would I go back?
Yes. Without a doubt.
Although I might aim to go in the spring rather than summer.
A for Athens, a city that earned its place in the Travel Alphabet.
On to the next letter. Until next time.
