1. experience history

With an age of about 7,500 years, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also considered the cradle of Western civilization. And famous philosophers, such as Plato, walked its streets. Remains of the ancient city can be discovered in many places. They absolutely belong on any Athens bucket list. Most prominent are the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Acropolis (with the Parthenon) and the monasteries of Daphni. If this is not enough history for you, you can visit the Acropolis Museum next to the excavation site or the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Also nearby are the Agora. This is that square which served as a marketplace for 5,000 years. The temple of Hephaestus is also worth seeing. It is exceptionally well preserved.

2. shopping in Plaka

In Plaka, visitors can experience how close history and modernity are in the Hellas metropolis. The district of Athens is particularly popular with shopaholics. While major brands can be found along Ermou Street, the older streets are located near the Acropolis. Here you can find boutiques and cafes. Anafiotika is particularly picturesque. There are no streets here. Visitors feel as if they are on an island far away from the busy city. In the flea market district of Monastiraki, souvenirs and bargains can be snatched up.

3. enjoy the view from above

The panorama of the city is special thanks to the Acropolis. Therefore, every Athens bucket list should include a climb up the city's local mountain: the Lycabettus. Although it is only 277 meters high, it is located in the city centre. Thus, from the viewing platform at the top, you have magnificent views and vistas. If you have at least a certain degree of mobility, you can hike up. For everyone else, there is a cable car. 

4. culinary Athens bucket list

Greek cuisine offers a number of culinary delights. And of course, nowhere are they served as authentically as in the capital of Hellas. Among the dishes you should definitely try for your Athens bucket list are mousakka, saganaki, souvlaki, tzatziki and, for those with a sweet tooth, loukoumades. These traditional specialities can be found in high quality throughout the city. If you are looking for something special, you should go to the Restaurant Spondi . Just 100 meters from the Parthenon, Chef Angelos Lantos serves his exclusive menu here. For this, there were two Michelin stars awarded. A great place with high restaurant and bar density is Psyrri.

5. relax on the beach

Metropolises that have their own beach exude their very own charm. In fact, it's no different in the case of Athens. Even if it is a few kilometres to the nearest beach. The beach of Yabanaki, for example, is considered very beautiful. It is located about 20 kilometres south of Athens. However, many people take the short trip because its sand is soft, the sea is shallow and the water is calm. A little closer is the sandy beach of Glyfada. Here a pier offers panoramic views. A pine grove provides shade.