Athens is a perfect destination for a long weekend or even a week. Plenty to do, great food and local wine, shopping and sightseeing. Also Greek people are simply lovely.
Here are some reviews and recommendations of where to find accommodation, food and flights to the capital of Greece.
Accommodation:
The Lighthouse Hotel
Owned by the Browns group, is their newest boutique hotel launched this Summer. The aesthetic of the hotel is very cool and rooms equally so – from the all-black bathrooms to flamingo side lights and a very comfortable bed – this has to be one of the hippest hotels in the centre.
Situated on Omonia Square, which historically has not been the safest of areas – though I walked happily around day and night and had no issues, plus you can get taxis directly outside from the rank. The main shopping area is only 12 minutes’ walk away and in the same area are amazing restaurants and coffee shops.
The hotel boasts an incredible roof top area with pool and jacuzzi and a bar with comfortable and luxurious sunbeds – this was worth the price itself and for the days I stayed the sun was shining! There is also a well-equipped gym which they allowed me to take a zoom with my personal trainer!
Finally the staff were all so amazing – special should outs to barman Pantellis and rooftop barman Giorgio both in their first jobs – they will go far! Also the chefs who made me the best omelettes every day. Highly recommended.
€100 a night including breakfast and a €3 a night tax for an Urban double room (though the bed was kingsize).
3, Marikas Kotopouli, 104 31, Athens, Greece
Tel. +30 214 405 6400
email: lighthouse.athens@brownhotels.com
Restaurants:
Ergon House
This market food-based restaurant wowed me from their service to their incredible food. I had an amazing feta and pepper dip with the best pita bread I have ever had to start, followed by a delicious boneless seabass with a selection of veg and two glasses of rose. The staff were incredible. A must. And only €35!
https://house.ergonfoods.com/food-experience/
Mystic Pizza & Pasta
Cheap and cheerful – the lovely waitress served with a smile and less than 10 mins walk from the hotel – lots of choice and the best pizzas and a tip order the house rose carafe really incredible! Value for money.
Athenee
This high-end restaurant disappoints from start to finish. Staff were forgetfulI had some lacklustre edamame and salmon (after ordering a salad which was not good! So reordered), a couple of glasses of wine and a bottle of water. Was shocked to get the bill it was way overpriced €85. The only redeeming feature was the good-looking waiters! Style over substance and not even that stylish!
https://www.atheneeathens.gr/en/
Sights
The Acropolis
This is the perfect time of year to go – and a must see. Hardly any crowds and has the most wonderful views of the city and of course the buildings themselves are simply amazing.
https://www.acropolis-tickets.com/acropolis-of-athens/
Flights
London Gatwick to Athens International airport approx. £150. Other airlines that fly direct from London – Wizz, British Airways, Aegean, Ryanair, SkyExpress.
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