Small & Boutique Hotels in Athens
As soon as you hear the name Athens, you think of ancient times, gods, goddesses and philosophers, but this city fascinates you not only with its past but also with its present. It is such a place that you can smell the smell of coffee while greeting history on every street and hear street music on every corner. The best thing about Athens is to forget to rush. Put your shoes on comfortably, leave your phone in your pocket for a while and get out into the streets of the city. As you walk along the cobblestone streets of Plaka, the Acropolis winks at you through the houses. A mural in Psirri will make you smile, then you'll find yourself in a small bookstore or a local wine shop. Everything happens spontaneously here, because Athens is a place to visit by feel, not by plan. Maybe you sit in a café sipping your morning coffee and listen to the conversation of the elderly couple at the other table, or hear from a shopkeeper about the streets he used to play on as a child. Athens is not only a city of places to see, but also a city of moments to live. Walking through the heart of the city, you may find yourself in front of an ancient theater or on a colorful street. In Athens, history and life are intertwined, the past and the future go hand in hand. Everything is so real, so sincere, so familiar. Athens is not a city to be visited quickly. It is a place to be taken in slowly, to be felt step by step. It is a city to be visited with a little breathing, a little daydreaming. The real beauty of this city begins when you get lost.
Things to do in Athens
Journey to the Heart of History at the Acropolis: Perhaps the most impressive way to understand Athens is to watch the city from the top of the Acropolis. As you wander among the columns of the Parthenon, you will be mesmerized by both history and scenery.
Touch the layers of time at the Acropolis Museum: With its modern architecture and carefully displayed artifacts, this museum offers an experience, not just information. Seeing the ancient excavation sites through the glass floor is another thrill.
Get Ready to Get Lost in the Streets of Plaka: Plaka, with its narrow cobblestone streets, bay windows and boutique shops, is one of the most delightful neighborhoods reflecting the spirit of Athens.
Enjoy Shopping and Colors at Monastiraki Market: Stroll among antique shops, handicrafts and souvenirs while sampling local street food.
Check out Psirri's Street Art and Colorful Nights: Psirri, one of the liveliest neighborhoods of Athens, is an alternative route to explore during the day and a fun stop with taverns and bars in the evening.
Watch the Changing of the Guard in Syntagma Square: The ceremony of Evzon soldiers in traditional costumes in front of the Parliament building is one of the must-see sights in Athens.
Take a Breather at the National Gardens: A great escape in the center of the city, where you can get away from the noise and relax in the shady trees and walkways.
Watch the Sunset from Lykabettus Hill: Taking the cable car or walking to the highest point in Athens and seeing the city at your feet is priceless.
Journey to the Heart of Greek Cuisine at Varvakeios Market: For those who want to experience a local market, Varvakeios is an authentic address where you can mingle with fresh produce and Athenians.
Spend the Day at the Beach on the Athens Riviera: A short walk from the city center, the coastal line is perfect for those who want to swim in the sea or walk along the beach.
Get Involved in the Nightlife in Gazi District: Offering an alternative atmosphere ranging from art galleries to clubs, Gazi shows the young and energetic face of Athens.
When and How to Visit Athens?
The best time to visit Athens is in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these periods, the weather is ideal for sightseeing and the city is free from the summer crowds. The summer months (especially July-August) can be quite hot, which can be tiring if you plan to spend a lot of time in open-air museums and archaeological sites. In winter, Athens is quieter and cheaper. It can be a good alternative for those who want to visit museums and historical sites. You can also experience local life in a more intimate way.
How to get to Athens?
Transportation from Turkey to Athens is quite easy. There are direct flights to Athens from cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya. The average flight from Istanbul to Athens takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Pegasus, Aegean Airlines and Turkish Airlines have regular flights. Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is approximately 30 km from the city center.