Zakynthos, greece

Navagio Beach (aka Shipwreck Cove) on the Greek Island of Zakynthos is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Here’s how to see shipwreck beach for yourself.

The island of Zakynthos off the southwest coast of Greece is one of the country’s quieter islands. However it has one particularly incredible highlight called Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach). A sandy little cove surrounded by towering limestone cliffs — plus the rusting remains of an old shipwreck.

This stunning Greek beach surrounded by brilliant blue ocean water is an Instagram favorite, and many travelers include Zakynthos on their itinerary specifically to visit this amazing beach in Greece.

We spent 3-days exploring Zakynthos with a rental car, including a few trips to Shipwreck Beach, and wanted to put together a little guide for you.

Shipwreck Beach Boat Tour

Board a glass-bottom speedboat to visit the famous Navagio Shipwreck beach, plus the scenic Navagio cliff-top viewpoint.

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Where Is Shipwreck Beach?

Shipwreck Beach, known locally as Navagio Beach, is located on the North West corner of Zakynthos Island. The island is about 250 km west of Athens in the Ionian Sea.

To reach Zakynthos, you can fly directly from Athens or take a ferry from Kyllini on the mainland. Ferries to Zakynthos run 7 times per day between 5:30am and 10:30pm and cost about €10 per person each way, or €35 if you’re taking a car.

How To Get To Shipwreck Beach

Cliff Top Viewpoints

The most popular postcard photos of Shipwreck Beach come from the top of the 200 meter (650 ft) tall cliffs that overlook it, rather than on the beach itself. While the beach is awesome to visit in person, the views from the cliffs are much more spectacular.

However keep in mind that Navagio beach is located on another side of the island from the capital city of Zakynthos (same name as the island). So the best way to get out there is to either rent a car, like we did, or find a tour company that will take you out there in a van. It’s also possible to hire a taxi from the capital, but it will cost around €100 EURO round trip.

The drive from Zakynthos town out to Navagio Beach takes about 45 minutes. Once there, you’ll head down an entrance road to the parking area, where there are a few stalls selling food, ice cream, drinks, and souvenirs. Parking is free.

The Viewing Platform

There is an official viewing platform located right below the parking area. It’s safe, secure, and there’s usually a long line to get a photo.

However the photos you get from this platform are not that great! You don’t get a full view of the whole beach. Tourism officials really need to improve this platform if they want to avoid people from walking out on the side trail… where the view is much better.

The Cliff Walk

To reach the best place to get photos of Shipwreck Beach, you need to go for a little hike. Beside the viewing platform (to the right) there is a fenced off area, with a single entrance (and plenty of warning signs).

Walking out this way, you’ll find a rough path that leads away from the parking lot and tourist shops. The path is not really maintained, and probably isn’t safe for older people or super little kids. It’s a long walk over jagged rocks, in the hot sun, with no benches or shade nearby.

The best time of day for photos of the beach is around noon, when the sun is directly overhead (and the cliffs aren’t casting a shadow). Sunset is also a wonderful time to visit.

Visiting The Beach By Boat

To actually step foot on the beautiful secluded Greek beach at Shipwreck Cove, there’s only one way. By boat. There are multiple tour companies that offer affordable boat trips to this most famous beach in Greece.

Some of these boats leave from the nearby town of Agios Nikolaos (where you can even rent and captain your own boat, if you have experience), but others start directly in Zakynthos Town.

During the boat trip to Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove), you’ll also visit other beautiful places off the Zakynthos coast, like the Blue Caves and Xygia Sulfur Beach.

Keep in mind that Shipwreck Beach is the most popular tourist attraction on the island, so the beach gets pretty packed. And you won’t actually get to spend too much time on the beach itself (about 20 minutes), as they shuttle tourists in and out throughout the day.

To visit the beach with the fewest number of people, or to stay as long as possible, take the earliest tour you can — or even better, rent a private boat.

USEFUL TIP: Boat trips to Navagio Beach can sometimes be canceled or delayed due to strong waves or bad weather. So just keep that in mind when planning your trip.

History Of The Shipwreck

So, where did the shipwreck at Shipwreck Cove come from? On October 2nd, 1980 a 157 foot shipping vessel known as the MV Panagiotis ran aground here.

Apparently the ship was smuggling cigarettes from Turkey for the Italian mafia when the Greek Navy started chasing it in bad weather. The crew ditched the boat in Navagio cove to try and get away. Ever since the crash, its rusting hulk has been slowly falling apart.

It’s also why the beach is sometimes referred to as “Smuggler’s Cove” too.

While Navagio Beach was already beautiful on its own, the addition of the abandoned shipwreck adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the beach. Like right out of some kind of pirate tale!

Staying Safe On The Cliffs

Over the last few years there have been a few tragic tourist deaths from the 200 meter tall limestone cliffs above shipwreck cove. Like all popular tourist destinations, you’ll always get some people pushing the limits of what’s safe, or just not thinking at all.

There is a memorial bench that has been built out near the end of the trail, but contrary to popular belief, it’s NOT for someone who died falling from these cliffs. Dennis Arvanitakis was an Australian of Greek descent who died in Spain, and his family from the island built this monument because it was his favorite spot.

However the cliffs around Zakynthos could be treacherous if you get too close to the edge. Occasionally sections of rock crumble away into the ocean below due to geology and natural erosion. Winds can pick up suddenly, or people can simply lose their balance.

So if you do decide to hike out to the best viewpoint, just make sure to stay far enough away from the bleeding edge of the cliff. You can still get plenty of amazing photos from a safe distance! ★

Shipwreck Beach Boat Tour

Board a glass-bottom speedboat to visit the famous Navagio Shipwreck beach, plus the scenic Navagio cliff-top viewpoint.

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Greece driving guide

Renting a car in Greece and self-driving around the country is a wonderful way to experience the Hellenic Republic. But here’s some advice about the best way to do it.

When my wife and I were planning our recent trip to Greece, we were initially hesitant about renting a car to explore the country by ourselves.

Greece has a bit of a reputation for wild driving (and drivers)!

But the more we researched, the more we realized a car rental in Greece would allow us to make our itinerary as interesting as possible.

I love the freedom of road trips. Picking your own routes, visiting the top archaeological sites, hanging out on beautiful Greek beaches, and simply stopping whenever you want to. At your own pace.

Here are some important tips we learned from our experience renting a car in Greece, to help you save money and stay safe while driving around the country!

Greece Travel Restrictions 2022

Greece is open to most travelers again, including American tourists. However you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.

Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines.

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Greece here.

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How To Rent A Car In Greece

1. Should You Self-Drive In Greece?

Now if you’re a fan of group bus tours, by all means, go book one. It’s a decent way to see Greece if you don’t have a lot of time.

No planning, no driving, just sit back and let someone else do all the work!

But if you’re like me, you prefer the adventure of independent travel.

If that’s the kind of traveler you are, renting a car in Greece is the way to go!

No set schedule or timetable — driving around Greece with the freedom to stop anyplace cool you find along the way. Yes, you can take your rental car to the Greek islands too, if you travel by ferry.

Just keep in mind that small back roads on the islands can be winding and narrow. But with some practice, you’ll gain confidence on them!

A great thing about renting your own car is the flexibility you get, should you decide to change your plans or get off the beaten path.

2. Where To Rent Your Car In Greece

Some common car rental companies in Greece include Europecar, Enterprise, Sixt, Hertz and Thrifty, as well as some local ones too.

But the best site to book your car is Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Greece.

Where to rent a car in Greece depends on where you start your journey, but for most of us a Greek vacation begins from Athens Airport.

Some people decide to rent a car AFTER spending a few days in Athens first, using public transportation to get around the city. Then you can pick up your car and explore other parts of Greece using the network of island ferries.

Athens Airport: Plan to pick up your car about 60 minutes after your flight arrives. When departing, try to be at the airport at least 3 1/2 hours before your flight leaves. Because returning your rental car can take up to 30 minutes.

Now, the traffic in Athens is a bit crazy. So you if you can survive driving through Athens traffic, the rest of your trip will be a piece of cake!

3. Car Rental Insurance In Greece

Some of the rumors about driving in Greece are true, and other drivers don’t always follow the rules. Especially in the capital of Athens! Don’t worry, I’ll share some tips for dealing with crazy drivers below.

This is why I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage.

Typically, rental cars in Greece come with a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but this isn’t exactly insurance, and only covers the car for up to €1000-3000 EUROS worth of damage.

This is the amount they hold on your credit card until you return the car in one piece. CDW typically does not include tire, cracked windshield, or undercarriage damage either.

While you can often save money booking your car with a good travel credit card that includes car rental insurance, you REALLY must read the fine print, because many people wrongly assume their card covers them in Greece.

If you get in a wreck driving in Greece, declined full coverage, and you suddenly learn your credit card doesn’t actually cover the damage — you’re screwed. I can’t tell you how many travel horror stories I’ve heard like this…

It’s why I usually pre-book full coverage online. It’s often cheaper than at the counter — and then you won’t have to worry about accidents at all!

Rental agencies usually include the cost of fire and third party liability insurance, but only up to a certain amount. So please check with the rental agency. Theft protection insurance costs anywhere from $5 to $12 a day. Personal Accident Insurance works out to about $3 to $5 per day. Collision damage waivers cost around $15 to $23 per day.  

4. How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Greece?

Renting a car in Greece is typically going to cost around $18-50 a day, depending on the type of car you get. SUVs or minivans can cost up to $200 a day. Our compact 4-door sedan was about $30 a day.

Gas Prices

Gas (petrol) prices in Greece might seem cheap to Americans at first glance, but remember that the rest of the world quotes gas in Liters, not Gallons (1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters). Currently, gas costs about $7.46 per gallon (€1.61 per liter) in Greece.

Many gas stations only accept cash too. So make sure to have a stash somewhere.

Greek gas stations are often closed on Sundays, and only open till 7 PM on other days. So plan for this, and get your tank filled beforehand.

Automatic vs Manual

Automatic cars are more expensive to rent than manual cars (but manuals are more common in Greece, and Europe in general), and you must specify what type you want when booking. If you’ve never driven a manual car before, don’t start in Greece! It’s safer to get an automatic.

One-Way Rentals

There’s an additional fee for one-way car rentals in Greece, which can vary by company. For example, if you want to drop off the car in a different city than where you started from.

5. Age Requirements For Renting A Car

Although the legal driving age in Greece is 21, many rental providers have a driver age bracket of 25 to 70. So if you’re over 70, or under 25 and over 21, you might have to pay an additional surcharge for driving a car in Greece. 

Car hire excess insurance may also be required if you’re below 25 or above 69. 

6. Greek Driving Laws Tourists Should Know

• The speed limit in Greece is 50 kph (30 mph) in urban areas and 90 kph (55 mph) in rural areas. While on the expressway it’s 110 kph (70 mph) and on the motorway the speed limit is 130 kph (80 mph).
• Greek’s drive on the right-hand side of the road, just like the United States.
• Private toll road rates range from €1.50 to €3.50.
• It’s illegal to drink and drive, or to talk on your phone while driving in Greece.
• Seat belts are a must. Fines are €80 for the first offense, and €350 after that. 
• Fines for going through a red light or illegal overtaking are €700.
• At an intersection with no stop sign, cars on the right have “right of way”. However this is also true for Roundabouts! That means cars already in the roundabout will stop for those entering (this isn’t typical elsewhere). 
• Illegal parking can result in fines of about €150. (This happens quite often in Athens as it’s very difficult to find parking spaces.)  
• Children under 12 years old must sit in the back seat. 
• Car seats are compulsory for children under 4 years old. Book one in advance, or bring your own travel-friendly car seat (like we do). 
• If driving in Greece’s mountainous areas in the winter, you should have snow chains with you. These are required by law, so make sure your car rental company provides them.

7. International Driver’s License

It is essential to show a valid EU Driving License or an International Driving License to be able to rent a car in Greece. While you may not need one to actually rent the car, you would need it if you get into an accident or get pulled over by police.

You can easily apply to for an International Driving License in your home country.

Some car rental agencies may require that you’ve had a driver’s license for at least a year before traveling to Greece. Please check for specific rules with the rental agency you choose. 

8. Helpful Tips For Driving In Greece

Greeks LOVE using their car horn! For pretty much anything. Don’t take it too personally. In fact they may honk the second a traffic light turns green.

If renting a car in Athens, watch out for impatient motorbike riders (which there are many) don’t really obey lane rules. They’ll also whizz past you even when you’re stopped at a red light.

While driving around Greece’s islands or rural areas, traffic may come at you from the other direction without any warning on what seems like single-lane roads. Or even driving backwards down a road. Or stopping in the middle of it.

Roads on many of the popular Greek islands (like Santorini and Mykonos) aren’t always well maintained. They can be narrow, winding, on the edge of sea cliffs, full of potholes, and some can have blind turns (honk first for safety!).

Try to avoid driving your rental car between 8 AM and 9 AM in Athens. Or leaving the city on a Friday, and returning on a Sunday. Rush hour traffic literally gets you nowhere. It can be a nightmare. 

Greek pedestrians follow their own rules. You’ll find people ambling down the road without heed to oncoming traffic. Be careful of them.

9. Extra Advice For Renting A Car In Greece

• Take pictures (or video) of the interior and exterior of the car when it’s handed over to you at the car rental Athens. This ensures you won’t get fined for damage that was already there. 
• If you’re planning to drive in Athens and towns closer to it, choose a smaller car. Traffic in Athens (and parking) can be dreadful, so a smaller car is better. 
• While staying in urban areas, pick hotels that have free parking included. Otherwise you’ll have to shell out around €150 if fined for illegal parking. 
• If you plan to take the car on an island ferry, inform the car rental place in advance. Some of them do not allow this, while others charge extra.
• Drivers in Greece DO NOT STOP at pedestrian crosswalks. So if you do, you’re risking getting hit from behind by a Greek driver not expecting it.

10. Accident & Breakdown Information

While the European Emergency Phone Number is 112, its use hasn’t been fully implemented in Greece. Alternative numbers you can use are 100 for the police, 166 for an ambulance, or 199 for the fire department.

However if your car simply breaks down, and no one is injured, its probably better to call your Greek car rental company’s own emergency roadside assistance number located on the rental agreement.

Enjoy Your Greek Road Trip!

Follow these few road rules, and you’ll survive driving in Greece with a rental car.

Choosing a self-drive rental will give you more of a chance to enjoy your trip exploring the ancient towns and crystal clear waters of this historic country. ★

Rent A Car In Greece

Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.

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This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

athens, greece

From ancient architecture to tasty street food, Europe’s hottest city has much to offer curious travelers. Here are some of the best activities and things to do in Athens, Greece!

Athens is the capital of Greece and dedicated to the goddess Athena. It’s often called the ‘birthplace of democracy’ and the ‘Cradle of Civilization’ because it was also home to the Platonic Academy and the Lyceum of Aristotle.

With a recorded history dating back 3400 years, Athens (also called Athenai) has many archaeological wonders worth visiting.

Replete with temples, ancient ruins, and statues of deities, Athens is now a mix of modern buildings along with older architectural marvels.

Aside from the history and architecture the city is known for, there are many other fun things to do in Athens that most people miss…

If you’re planning to spend some time in Athens, I wanted to recommend some of my favorite fun and unusual things to do, no matter what time of year you visit.

My Athens itinerary is completely free! I’ve worked hard putting it together for you. If you find it useful, please use my affiliate links when you book hotels, rental cars or activities. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.

Athens Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Athens, Greece. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Greece Travel Restrictions 2022

Starting in May, Greece is allowing travelers to visit, including American tourists. You must either have proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s), or present a negative PCR test within 72 hours of your flight.

Hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines (like wearing masks indoors).

You can find the latest updates on traveling to Greece here.

Get Travel Insurance

Traveling without insurance is never a good idea. SafetyWing offers travel insurance that covers COVID-19 (and more).

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Best Things To Do In Athens Guide

1: The Acropolis

You can’t start a visit to Greece without hiking up to visit the Acropolis. As one of the most important Athens locations, as well as a World Heritage Site, this fortified citadel perched on a hill above the city stands out as a testament to Greek wisdom and culture. 

The Acropolis holds many different ancient ruins, like the world-famous Parthenon temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena.

The best way to visit the Acropolis (and save some money) is to purchase the Acropolis Combo Ticket which gives you access to multiple Greek ruins across the city over the course of 5-days.

Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the Acropolis hill itself, maybe even a half-day. There is a lot to see, plenty of stair climbing, and worn-smooth slippery rocks. You’ll definitely get a workout!

Acropolis Combo Tickets

Enjoy skip-the-line access to 7 of the city’s top archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, Roman Agora, and Ancient Agora.

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2: The Parthenon

While part of the Acropolis complex, the Parthenon deserves a specific mention. Built in 447 BCE on the hill of the Acropolis, with Doric marble columns that thinned towards to top — showcasing the architectural marvels of ancient Greece.

Dedicated to goddess Athena, the Parthenon ruins are a must-visit attraction in Athens during the day; and seen from across the city the magnificent columns look spectacular lit up at night at night.

It can get crowded up there, so I recommend going first thing in the morning — right when the Acropolis opens, or during the last few hours before they close!

If you don’t want to hire a dedicated tour guide, but enjoy learning details about historic locations like this, there are also self-guided smartphone tours too.

Parthenon Self-Guided Tour

Join a fascinating self-guided audio tour of the Parthenon right from your phone. Full of history and details.

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3: Odeon Of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient theater perched on the South Western slope of the Acropolis in Athens. Frank Sinatra, Nana Mouskouri, Pavarotti, and Andrea Bocelli have all performed here!

Built by Herodes Atticus in 161 AD, in memory of his dead wife, the steep-sloped Odeon had a cedar roof and seated 5000 for music concerts till it was destroyed in 267 AD.

It has been used as a venue for many popular concerts since it was restored in the 1950s. If you happen to be visiting Athens when a concert is going on here, I highly recommend you go!

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4: Acropolis Museum

Built to house ancient artifacts from the Acropolis ruins, the Acropolis Museum on the Southern slopes of the Acropolis opened in 2009. Just a short 400 meter walk from the Parthenon, a visit to the museum can be combined with a visit to the Acropolis.

The museum is home to over 4250 objects and  replaces the older museum that was housed atop the Acropolis from 1874 to the 1950s. Walk under the museum to see the excavation site of an ancient Athens neighborhood with streets, houses, and shops dating back to 3000 B.C.

You can pre-book tickets to the Museum here.

Acropolis Museum Ticket

Explore the collections of archaeological artifacts and learn about the Acropolis site from this nearby museum.

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5: Ancient Agora & Temple Of Hephaestus

The Central Square in ancient Greek cities, the Agora was a gathering place for citizens to discuss affairs of state, marriages, and partake in religious rituals. Over the course of time the Agora also came to be used a marketplace selling goods, food, pottery, and religious artifacts. 

Next to the Athenian Agora, you’ll also find the Temple of Hephaestus which was very well-preserved compared to other Greek temples. This Doric temple was built by The Hephaisteion Master under the aegis of Pericles between 449 to 415 BC to honor Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship, fire and metal work.

The Stoa, another good site nearby, houses the Museum of Ancient Agora, that is home to Athenian, Byzantine and Turkish artifacts. 

Ancient Agora Guided tour

Visit the commercial, political and financial heart of ancient Athens and see Hephaestus Temple while learning about its history.

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6: The Roman Agora

Located to the East of the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora was built much later and encroached on the site of the older one. The entrance to it was through the still standing Gate of Athena Archegetis. The 17^th century Fethiye Mosque is located in the Northern end of the agora.    

The agora is also home to the 12-meter tall Horologion of Andronikos Kyrrhestes, also known as the Tower of the Winds, which was probably the first meteorological station in the world. Also called Areides, the tower features a water clock, different sundials, and once also included a Triton weather-vane.

7: Varvakios Central Market

The Varvakios Central Market in Athens (not to be confused with Central market where food trucks gather) is also called the Varvakios Agora or Dimotiki Agora. If you love public markets, this is where you’ll find fish, meat, produce, street food, souvenirs, and whole stores dedicated to olives or spices.

Because of the variety of goods, low prices, and freshness, this is where many local restaurants get their ingredients. The fish market alone serves up to 5,000 customers every day and employs more than 400 people!

HOURS: Varvakios market is open between 7am and 6pm every day but Sundays.

Athens Food Tours

Discover authentic Greek cuisine on a food and market tour in Athens. Mingle with locals as they shop, taste typical Greek snacks, and more.

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8: Run Around The Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium was built to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, on the same site as an even older ancient stadium where nude male athletes competed in track events.

While the older stadium built in 335 BC could hold 60,000 spectators, the modern Olympic Stadium you see today can hold 45,000 spectators on 47 tiers.

We ran around the track with our son Dylan, pretending we were at the Olympics. You can climb to the top of the stadium for an even better view of how massive it is, and of course there is a tri-level medal podium where you can pose for photos.

You can also go inside the stadium to visit a little museum of Olympic history, complete with the torches used in past games.

9: Explore The Plaka Neighborhood

Lined with colorfully painted old houses, the Plaka quarter of Athens is home to small taverns where you can taste some authentic Greek food. Walk through the winding alleys and visit the Library of Hadrian, Kapnikaréa Church, Metamórfosis Church, or spend time shopping at popular stores on Ermou Street. 

Visit the nearby Anafiotika quarter to take pictures, or enjoy a drink while soaking in the vibes at the famous Restaurant Staircase on Mnisikleous Street. 

Greek Dancing In Plaka

Enjoy an evening of Greek dancing and fine local food in the heart of Athens’ historic Plaka neighborhood.

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10: National Archaeological Museum

Greece’s largest archaeological museum, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens was set up in the 19^th century. Housed in a Neo-classical building designed by L. Lange, it houses over 11,000 artifacts and 5 permanent collections. 

Prehistoric antiquities from the Mycenaean, Neolithic, and Cycladic areas, Greek ceramics from 11^th century BC, Egyptian antiquues dating back to 5000 BC, marble Cycladic figurines, gold artifacts from the Mycenaean period, there’s a lot to see here!

Archaeological Museum Tickets

Skip the line and visit the Museum with a convenient e-ticket and self-guided audio tour on your phone.

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11: Hike Mount Lycabettus

A cretaceous limestone hill towering over Athens, Lykavittos or Mount Lycabettus rises 300 m above sea level. Covered with pine trees, the hill is perfect for a hike to the top, and rewards the visitor with picture perfect views of Athens.

If you’re too lazy to hike, ride the Lycabettus Funicular to the top, and spend time at the restaurant after visiting the Chapel of St. George. 

For a more in-depth experience, check out this guided tour.

Mount Lycabettus Tuk-Tuk Ride

Cruise through Athens and up Mount Lycabettus on a 1-hour tuk-tuk ride for great views.

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12: Athens Stray Cat Spotting

Much like Istanbul in Turkey — Athens is full of stray cats. Local shop owners and other residents kind of “adopt” them by putting out food & water, but the cats are wild & free to roam the city.

As huge cat fans, this was a pleasant surprise! We were always keeping our eyes out for strays, and even bought some dry cat food to give them as we wandered around the city.

One of the best places to find stray cats is around the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in the Plaka neighborhood.

Athens Cat Tour!

Yes, this is a real thing. Take a self-guided tour to the best places to see groups of stray cats in Plaka. LOL!

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13: Hadrian’s Arch

Hadrian’s Arch is a beautiful structure located along one of Athens’ main roadways. It was constructed in 131 BC to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and to thank him for his benefactions to the city.

Its architecture resembles Roman style arches, and is within walking distance from Syntagma Square — between the rock of the Acropolis and the temple of Olympian Zeus.

14: Hike Up Philopappou Hill

Declared an archaeological park in 1955-56, the 173 acre Philopappou Hill (or Filopappou Hill) is home to the Athenian owl, peregrine falcon and other indigenous birds. It also gives you great views of Athens from above! Probably why the birds like it so much.

The park includes the Hill of the Nymphs, the Pnyx, and the Mouseion Hill or Hill of the Muses where the Philopappou Mausoleum or Monument is located. 

The Philopappou Mausoleum is dedicated to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince of the Kingdom of Commagene who lived from 65 to 116 AD. His death caused grief to the citizens of Athens and the imperial family.

The 12^th century Church of Demetrius Loumbardiaris hidden in wooded area of the park is perfect for a serene quiet visit.

Mythology Walking Tour

Stroll along some of the most beautiful spots of Athens as your guide share stories of Greek gods and lovers.

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15: Temple Of Olympian Zeus

The half-ruined Temple of Olympian Zeus is within walking distance from the city center of Athens. At its peak, the temple was composed of the temple had 104 columns, each 17 meters high.

But in 267 AD, the temple was damaged during an attack on Athens. Later the Byzantine emperor Theodosius II prohibited the “cult” of ancient Greek and Roman gods in the temple. Citizens slowly took apart the temple’s fine marble for construction of churches, homes, and other buildings.

Olympian Zeus E-Ticket

Marvel at the remains of a colossal temple in the pulsating heart of Athens with this e-ticket and audio guide.

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16: Panagia Kapnikarea Church

Among the oldest churches in the capital city of Athens, the Panagia Kapnikarea Church is a Byzantine treasure. Built in the 11^th century on the ruins of a Greek temple, the church on Ermou Street near Monastiraki is dedicated to the assumption of the Virgin.

Illuminated by lamps instead of chandeliers, the walls feature mosaics and religious works of art. 

17: Stuff Yourself With Greek Food

If you asked a local to point you to the best restaurants in Athens, everyone would point you towards a different one. There are just so many good tavernas and places to eat in Athens.

Make sure to check out some of the places on the Mnisikleous Restaurant Staircase, or the many tavernas in Plaka or Psiri Quarter. Old Ithaki is a good lunch spot we visited a few times, next to the Athens Cathedral.

But if you want to eat somewhere luxurious with a view of the city, try the the rooftop bar at the Grand Bretagne Hotel. Enjoy a cocktail here while watching the sun go down over Athens!

Athens Food Tours

Discover authentic Greek cuisine on a food and market tour in Athens. Mingle with locals as they shop, taste typical Greek snacks, and more.

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18: Museum Of Cycladic Art

Established in 1986 by ship owner Nikolas Goulandris and his wife Dolly Goulandris, the Museum of Cycladic Art is located in the Kolonaki Quarter.

It houses over 3000 objects of art from the Cyclades, as well as Ancient Greek and Cypriot art. Most of these pieces are from Nikolas’ own collection and date back to the 4^th to 6^thcentury BC.  

19: Monastiraki Square & Flea Market

This 19th-century neighborhood on the Northern side of the Acropolis is a vibrant shopping area. Street vendors and shops sell trinkets and souvenirs, clothes, and specialty items to tourists. When you need a break, grab a bite at one of the many casual restaurants. 

Situated close to many popular sites, the Monastiraki Flea Market in Monastiraki Square is the perfect place to buy souvenirs, handmade footwear, and artisanal products. 

For a cool overhead view of the square and the city, make sure to visit the rooftop bar A For Athens and grab a cocktail!

20: Explore Athens’ Psiri Quarter

The Psiri Quarter (also spelled Psyrri or Psirri) is a hip and creative little neighborhood in Athens where all the happening nightlife is. You’ll find restaurants, bars, cafes, tavernas, and colorful street-art. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, it used to have a reputation for crime, but the area has since been gentrified.

One place you need to stop here is called Little Kook Magic Cafe. This quirky coffee & cake place is decorated like a children’s fairy tale book, featuring all manner of animals, storybook characters, colorful flowers, dragons, fairies, and an umbrella covered side-street. The perfect Instagram photo location!

21: Sunset On Areopagus Hill

Areopagus Hill, also known as “Mars Hill”, is a large rock outcrop located close to the entrance of the Acropolis. Take the stairs up to the top of the rock for some awesome views of the Acropolis from a different perspective, as well as Athens itself.

The hill was an ancient meeting place where philosophy and law were discussed, as well as the location of a famous speech by St. Paul the Apostle. Sunset is a popular time to hang out up here!

22: The Prison Of Socrates

A cave-like structure cut into the Hill of Muses has long thought to have been the jail used to hold the ancient philosopher Socrates before he was executed. No one knows for sure.

The teachings of Socrates were thought of as dangerous in Athens, leading to the decline of morality in the population of Greece. A new Athenian democracy was afraid that citizens would stop obeying the established laws and rules or fulfilling their civic duty, which would lead to overthrowing of the new political system.

So Socrates was imprisoned, and eventually executed in 399 BC by poison hemlock. This structure was also used as a place to hide antiquities from the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum during World War II.

Historical Walking Tour

Spend a day with a local archaeologist-historian and admire the top landmarks of ancient Athens.

Book Online Now

23: Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens is kind of the “official” church of the city. It was constructed with materials from over 70 abandoned or ruined churches, and the interior includes notable frescoes and icons plus a 24-metre-high dome.

Right next to the big church is a smaller one, the Church of St. Eleftherios also called the “Little Mitropoli.” Dedicated to Agios Eleftherios, this 12th-century church is decorated with 90 relief scenes.

24: Changing Of The Guard

Dedicated to all lost Greek soldiers in past wars, Greece’s Tomb of the Unknown Solider sits in front of the Greek Parliament Building. Every hour, on the hour, you can watch the changing of the presidential honor guard.

This is a free thing to do in Athens, so it’s pretty popular and there’s often a large crowd watching. The Tomb, called a cenotaph, is empty and was made according to Ancient Greek custom.

A much more impressive ceremony takes place at 11am on Sundays, where a large group of Evzones (presidential guards) gather in front of the Parliament.

Athens Electric Bike Tour

Visit most of Athens’ top sights and discover hidden parts of the city on a safe & fast electric bike.

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25: Hadrian’s Library

Hadrian’s Library isn’t just a library, but a building that housed music and lecture rooms too. It was organized as a typical Roman forum with a pool in the center of a courtyard and bordered by 100 columns.

It essentially functioned as Athens’ civic center in Roman times, while the nearby Roman Agora was the central market. Hadrian was Roman emperor from 117 to 138, however he had a particular fondness for the city of Athens and constructed all manner of big projects here — like the library.

Transportation Around Athens

Rental Car

The best site to book your car is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive in Greece.

Taxi Or Uber

You’ll find taxis everywhere in Athens. Don’t go with drivers that bargain for prices. Make sure you catch a licensed taxi that has a meter and it’s switched on. You can choose from radio taxis, Uber, Taxibeat, or Taxiplon. 

Bike 

Although cycling in Athens wasn’t very popular earlier, it’s now catching on. You can rent bikes from Panorama Bikes, Athens Bikes, and Funky Ride. 

Metro

The Athens Metro System is very easy to use, and has lines running from 5 AM to midnight. On Fridays and Saturdays, Lines 2 and 3 run till 2 AM. 

Standard metro tickets worth €1.50 are valid on most trains, buses, and trams for a 90-minute journey. Day passes worth €4.50 and 3-day tourist tickets worth €22 are also available.  

For more information on Athens’ public transportation system, check out this great guide.

Where To Stay In Athens

Accommodation in Athens can range from budget to luxurious. The best areas to stay are those close to the City Center, buses, restaurants and shops. Look for hotels or hostels located in Syntagma, Plaka, Monastiraki, or Koukaki. 

Athens Travel Tips & Advice

• We spent 3-days exploring Athens, and I feel like that was the perfect amount of time to see a lot of stuff. Spend at least 2-days if you can.
• The best time to visit Athens (and Greece in general) is between March and May or September to November. The summer months are busier, and much hotter!
• Check out the Athens Free Walking Tour offered by the city. Available at tourist information booths, it’s a great way to get a feel for the city of Athens. 
• Buy the Athens City Pass! With varying price options, the city pass gives you discounted access to multiple locations with or without transport included.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.