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k_tsoukalas

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I just wanted to share that one of the most memorable day trips that I took while staying in the Athens area was The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. I didn't really know what to expect but it ended up being memorable. My mother said this was a common excursion on one of the Mediterranean cruises that my parents took, and I wanted to see what the fuss was all about.

So, we hired a taxi there from the hotel and our timing was perfect. It worked out that we got there right at sunset, and the pictures I took while here were some of the most beautiful of the whole trip. Here's a photo of what it looks like:
 

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Great suggestion! Another thing that we always do when in Athens is spend time at the Acropolis and also changing of the gaurds at the tomb of the unknown soldier

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How far is it from downtown Athens? I didn't plan on going but now I want to add it to my itinerary!
 
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How far is it from downtown Athens? I didn't plan on going but now I want to add it to my itinerary!
From what I remember it is about 20 min cab ride.
 
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The Parthenon and Plaka are memorable.
 
Love love love Sounio especially at sunset. The drive is about an hour from downtown Athens but you can take the metro to a closer stop if your taking a cab. I believe you can also do a bus tour from the city center. Also some great beaches near by to take a dip so you can easily make a day of it.
 
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From what I remember it is about 20 min cab ride.
It depends on traffic and where you are. We stayed outside of Athens and I think it might have been around 40 minutes from our location. Not a bad distance at all!
 
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It depends on traffic and where you are. We stayed outside of Athens and I think it might have been around 40 minutes from our location. Not a bad distance at all!
From what I remember it is about 20 min cab ride.
Really? We hired a cab from our hotel in Glyfada to go to Sounion, and I thought it was about 50 minutes. I thought Athens was further, and Mapquest thinks it's 1 hour 7 minutes from Athens.
 
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Really? We hired a cab from our hotel in Glyfada to go to Sounion, and I thought it was about 50 minutes. I thought Athens was further, and Mapquest thinks it's 1 hour 7 minutes from Athens.
Really? We hired a cab from our hotel in Glyfada to go to Sounion, and I thought it was about 50 minutes. I thought Athens was further, and Mapquest thinks it's 1 hour 7 minutes from Athens.
It really does depend on traffic and what part of Athens you are in. For example if you have to cut through downtown during peak traffic it will take well over an hour! I would say plan on an hour give or take if you are in the vacinity. Play it safe and go earlier in the day and spend some time at one of the local beaches there!
 
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I just wanted to share that one of the most memorable day trips that I took while staying in the Athens area was The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. I didn't really know what to expect but it ended up being memorable. My mother said this was a common excursion on one of the Mediterranean cruises that my parents took, and I wanted to see what the fuss was all about.

So, we hired a taxi there from the hotel and our timing was perfect. It worked out that we got there right at sunset, and the pictures I took while here were some of the most beautiful of the whole trip. Here's a photo of what it looks like:
If you ever have a chance to go back, make a stop at the Monastery of St. Paul the Apostle in Paliokamariza, Lavrion. It's a beautiful monastery and the nun's have an organic farm with olives, fruits and herbs. There are also handmade crafts and other items available in their gift shop.
 

My Favorite Things to Do in Athens

Athens is one of my favorite places to visit! It's so rich in history, culture, and even has a spirit of adventure. What I find most impressive are the ruins, museums, and other attractions. I thought I'd give list of my favorite places. What are your favorite places?

History

If you’re visiting Athens with history in mind, then it’s definitely worth exploring some of the most iconic landmarks such as The Acropolis – home to three remarkable buildings – the Parthenon temple dedicated to goddess Athena; Erechtheion shrine dedicated to god Poseidon; Temple of Athena Nike; Odeon Of Herodes Atticus theater known for its amazing acoustics; Ancient Agora – a large public square where people would mingle with traders and philosophers like Socrates who delivered his famous orations here; Stoa Poikile painted colonnade decorated by Polygnotos’ frescoes (5th century BC); Roman Forum with temples like Tower Of The Wind that originally served as an astronomical observatory.

Art

For art lovers looking for something more contemporary there are plenty of museums worth visiting such as National Archeological Museum which displays artifacts from all periods up to late antiquity era including treasures found during excavations at Delphi Oracle or Benaki Museum that houses more than 30 thousand Greek works from Byzantine period through modern era. If you have time make sure you check out Onassis Cultural Center which stages theatrical productions , concerts , exhibitions and workshops all year round . And don't forget Cycladic Art Museum founded by renowned sculptor Nicholas Tombazi displaying collections from Cycladic islands located near Athens (Aegina, Paros etc).

Food

Foodies will find Athens very appealing since it is one of Mediterranean's most vibrant cities when it comes to culinary scene aside from having traditional Greek staples such as Gyro souvlaki & Mousaka there are also amazing lobster restaurants located by sea overlooking Piraeus Harbor making sure locals can enjoy fresh seafood even during harsh winter season . Additionally Athenian street food vendors serve excellent dishes made on spot bound keep your energy levels up while walking around exploring various sites .

Leisure

Not only can visitors experience traditional greek hospitality but they also get pleasure out taking part in leisurely activities ranging anywhere between dancing at cultural festivals held throughout summer season (Athens Festival - June-July ; International Dance Festival - September) going go-karting racing at brand new tracks opening annually outside city limits or relaxing on surfing school courses ideal for beginner surfers starting their journey into discovering this extreme sport(Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre being operator).

What do you like to do in Athens?

Fun Side Trips While Staying in Athens

I've been to Athens. I have done side trips from Athens. Still, I love Rick Steve's work and I found this interesting! He visited some of the places I've seen, but frankly, he made me want to see them again. This was a fun watch!

One of the places I haven't been that he mentioned is Hydra. Such a cool-looking place.

Best Shopping in Athens

My wife and I are going to Greece in a few days. We both like to shop (her more than me) but we've never actually had enough time in Athens to explore the shopping.

Where should we go?

Someone told us Monastiraki is a good choice, but are there other places? We'll have a few days to poke around.

Visiting the Cycladic Museum

Though I will be in Mykonos for a while when I come to Greece (soon!) I will have some time in Athens.

I will be tied up with wedding festivities on Mykonos, but I will have some time. So, I want to learn about the history and culture of the island. I know there has to be more to it there than all the parties and the beach scene.

I plan to visit the Cycladic Museum in Athens to get ready. Is there anything I should keep in mind while I explore the museum?

Athens Nightlife Questions

I'm currently planning a trip to Athens, Greece, and I've heard so much about the nightlife there. I know that there is great nightlife here, I've just never done it.

Given the vast array of options, I'm reaching out to this community for personal recommendations and insights. What are your favorite nightlife spots in Athens? I'm interested in hearing about places that offer unique experiences, whether it's a bar, club, etc.

If you've had an unforgettable night out in Athens, please share:
  • Name of the place
  • What makes it stand out (music, drinks, crowd, view, etc.)
  • Any tips for newcomers (like dress code)
Also, if there are any must-know cultural etiquettes or tips for enjoying Athens' nightlife responsibly, I'd appreciate learning about those as well.

Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences!
Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

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