Earlier this summer, I decided to take my adventures to one of the culturally richest cities in the world – Athens. Known to be one a beautiful city, I was ready with my bags packed from the moment we booked our flights. For our Holiday Package for Greece, we picked up a decent offer via HolidaysWallet.in
We also put in an inquiry for forex for Greece from the same site and got an excellent offer on Euros. Being as particular I am, I also made sure that we are covered for the trip with a reliable travel insurance for Greece with TATA AIG. Last but not least, I checked out all information about Greece on the Greece Travel Guide including Cruises from Greece
After a long but fun flight, we made it to Athens. On the way to our hotel located in the bustling Plaka district, I absorbed the rich heritage of Greek grandeur amidst the stone colour buildings, a lot of food carts and boutique stores.
Our welcome at the hotel was absolutely delightful. The ever so helpful reception at Acropolis Select hotel made our check-in quick. Located perfectly, it is walking distance to Plaka, Syntagma square, Acropolis, Monastiraki and Temple of Zeus. The metro station is a 1 min walk and it couldn’t get better than this for a first time visitor.
Out and about as soon as we were settled in, we headed out to the vibrant Plaka area. Full of quaint little outdoor restaurants and small bars, it was a delight to explore this famous locality. After grabbing a yummy gyro, we made our trek uphill to the much awaited Acropolis. It is quite a beautiful monument with so much history and a touching story to it. History buffs like me would love this. Later, we the visited some other spots such as Temple of Zeus, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Acropolis Museum and Parthenon.
Later in the evening, went up to a roof top bar of a hotel called A for Athens which had the whole view of the Acropolis. Met a bunch of locals, had a couple drinks and went to some other recommended bars in the area. If you are ever visiting Athens in the months of July-August, roof top bars are the best option. We went to a bunch of them in Monastiraki and Plaka. Once we were done for the night, we headed back to our hotel with lots of local information, some local friends and a guideline to figure our expedition the following day.
Gazi is a spirited and exuberant place and was our next spot. I am so glad we met some helpful people the previous night who offered to show us around. Moment we got off the train into Gazi, we went bar hopping where we tried out a new local drink called Ouzo. A bunch of drinks and a scrumptious meal later, we hobbled our way back to the hotel and called it a night… or morning was it?!
The following day we went to a lovely shopping district near Monastiraki and Syntagma square called Ermou Street. Hoards of shoppers and a massive variety of shops dotted along this cobble stoned paradise. From stylish clothes, shoes, accessories and bags to artefacts, are all housed on that one long street. Completely exhausted and almost broke, we made our way to the hotel via Plaka and left the rest of the evening to explore the rest of the city on our last night.
Finally, I would like to give a special mention to the Greek food I ate there. One must try the local souvlaki and gyro in addition to fine-dining items like fried calamari & octopus served with lemon juice. The dips like Tzatziki and Hummus are finger licking good. Quaint bakeries also serve delicious goodies, and lastly, no Greek cuisine is complete before the famous Greek salad.
In addition to the above mentioned activities, one must visit the coastal waterfront area along the sheltered Saronic Gulf, around 10 miles south of the city. It boats of some beautiful beaches, some exquisite waterfront hotels, exclusive restaurants and raging clubs.
Greece is simply an amazing destination for a variety of activities, food and culture. Also, it is easier on your pocket as compared to other parts of Western Europe. If you have already taken a holiday in Europe, your next destination should be Greece.