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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.
 

Favorite day trips from Athens?

I was talking to someone recently about Athens and realized that a lot of people use it mostly as a base before heading to the islands, but there seem to be so many good day trips nearby that don’t get discussed as much.

The obvious ones like Delphi, Hydra, Nafplio, Cape Sounion, and Aegina always come up, but I’m curious which places people actually enjoyed the most once they went. Sometimes the smaller or less hyped trips end up being the most memorable.

I’m especially interested in places that are realistically doable in a single day without feeling rushed. Could be history-focused, food-focused, beach towns, mountain villages, or even somewhere mostly known for the scenery and atmosphere.

Would love to hear everyone’s favorite day trips from Athens, especially places that surprised you once you got there.

Is Kolonaki worth visiting?

I'm planning another trip to Athens and keep hearing good things about Kolonaki. I've walked through Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma several times over the years, but I've never really spent much time exploring Kolonaki.

For those who have visited, is it worth adding to my itinerary? I've heard it's a more upscale neighborhood with great cafés, restaurants, shopping, and a different atmosphere than the more tourist-focused areas. I'm wondering if it's the kind of place where you can spend a relaxed afternoon wandering around or if it's mainly for luxury shopping.

If you recommend visiting, what shouldn't I miss? I'd love suggestions for cafés, bakeries, restaurants, viewpoints, or any hidden gems nearby. I'd also be interested in hearing what makes Kolonaki stand out compared to other neighborhoods in Athens.

Any must-try dessert spots in Athens?

I might be heading to Athens this summer, and I’ve already started making a mental list of all the food I want to try—but I feel like desserts deserve their own plan.

I know about some of the classics like loukoumades and baklava, but I’d love to hear about specific spots that are really worth going out of the way for. Whether it’s a traditional pastry shop, a place known for one standout dessert, or even something more modern, I’m open to all of it.

Also curious if there are any places that are especially good in the summer, something refreshing, lighter, or just perfect after a long day walking around the city.
Would love any recommendations or favorites you’ve found!

Is the area near Syntagma a convenient place to stay?

I may be taking a last-minute trip to Athens sometime in September or October, and I’m starting to look at hotel options. I keep seeing places near Syntagma Square, and I’m wondering whether that is a convenient area to stay.

I like the idea of being central and able to walk to a lot of the main sights, restaurants, and neighborhoods, but I also don’t want to stay somewhere that feels overly busy or touristy all the time. How easy is it to get around from Syntagma, especially to places like Plaka, Monastiraki, the Acropolis, and other parts of central Athens?

I’d also love to know what the area feels like in the evenings. Is it a good choice for someone who wants convenience and walkability, or would you recommend staying in a nearby neighborhood instead?

Any hotel-area suggestions would be appreciated too.

Is the Athens Riviera worth visiting if you're staying downtown?

I'm curious whether the Athens Riviera is worth exploring if you're staying in central Athens. I've heard wonderful things about the coastal areas, especially Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and the beaches along the way, but I'm wondering whether it's worth taking time away from sightseeing downtown.

I love the idea of experiencing a different side of Athens, especially somewhere with seaside cafés, beautiful views, and perhaps a relaxing lunch overlooking the water. However, I'm not sure how much time I should set aside for it.

Is it realistic to visit the Riviera for just an afternoon, or would you recommend spending an entire day there? Also, is public transportation convenient, or is renting a car a better option?

I'd love to hear which areas are your favorites and whether you think the experience is worthwhile for visitors with limited time in Athens.
Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

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