We thought Athens would be just another big city. It was a lot more than that. Something about how the Greeks do a big city gives it a unique charm. You know the food was part of it, but it was the history, culture, and crazy mix of old and new that helped us be at home in Athens.
We spent our mornings exploring the city. Walking up Lycabettus Hill to take in the incredible view, finding unique restaurants and cafes, and just feeling like part of the city. This was a work stop so nights were spent close to the hotel. This helped us discover the popularity of rooftop restaurants and bars in Athens
We stayed at the Academias Hotel. The service and rooms were both 5 out of 5 and they have an exceptional sushi rooftop restaurant. Yes, we ate sushi in Athens but it was really about the view! The staff at the hotel was great! A warm greeting every time you walked in the lobby and someone always seemed to be right there to provide anything you needed.
We found an excellent little taverna after a wander through the city. There are a lot of touristy restaurants in Athens and many of them are very good. There is, however, something special about finding that place that most tourists will not find. We found another song for this trip’s soundtrack playing in the background and had an excellent meal.
On the wander to lunch, we took a detour through open markets and a meat market that seemed to have a dedicated case for every part of every animal. We have always loved learning how city shops. Seeing the completely unknown items right next to the familiar helps us feel at home at the same time we are learning.
Lycabettus Hill was a beautiful vista to overlook the city and especially the Acropolis. It is a good hike but the way the view develops on the way up is worth the walk!
We made quite a few stops in Grece on this trip but most of them were quick cruise stops. Our time in Athens was special as it gave us those moments of feeling at home in Greece. ευχαριστώ Athens! (Thank you Athens!)