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dpappas87

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I decided that the next time I go to Greece, I want to go on a lot of walks or hikes. I know I could always meander anyplace I visit - either walk around a neighborhood or by the beach, etc. I am more interested in finding some great walks or hikes in or near Athens.

I saw that Mt. Lycabettus was recommended somewhere on this forum, and I saw that someone said to go during sunset. Is there anything else like that in or near Athens?
 
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There are many hills to climb in Athens. Lykavittos is the most famous and many people go in the evening to catch the sunset - if you can find the room amongst the crowds. I usually climb up early in the morning when there is hardly anyone up there and the views of Athens are unobstructed.

Filopappou Hill is also a popular destination. It is more of an archaeological wonderland with Pnyx (the birthplace of democracy), Socrates prison and an ancient monument. I took some amazing photos of the Acropolis from Filopappou with a 300mm zoom lens.

Also, Strefi Hill is good as it gives good views of both Lykavittos and the Acropolis.

Some parks that are great to walk around are the National Botanical Gardens behind Syntagma and Pedion tou Areos which had some amazing art installations last time I walked through there.
 
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There are many hills to climb in Athens. Lykavittos is the most famous and many people go in the evening to catch the sunset - if you can find the room amongst the crowds. I usually climb up early in the morning when there is hardly anyone up there and the views of Athens are unobstructed.

Filopappou Hill is also a popular destination. It is more of an archaeological wonderland with Pnyx (the birthplace of democracy), Socrates prison and an ancient monument. I took some amazing photos of the Acropolis from Filopappou with a 300mm zoom lens.

Also, Strefi Hill is good as it gives good views of both Lykavittos and the Acropolis.

Some parks that are great to walk around are the National Botanical Gardens behind Syntagma and Pedion tou Areos which had some amazing art installations last time I walked through there.
Kalley Mera from Thailand Vangelis....such terrific contribution from you here!.....Sas Efgharisto ya afta.....wish I could join you and I can bring some Mezedex! ....and some krassi .....and kanu mey blah blah ya Zoi mas!
 
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Vangelis, thanks for the tips on the hikes and avoiding the crowds! I am looking forward to giving your suggestions a try!
 
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I agree with all the suggestions. I heard Lykavittos was a great experience and totally worth doing. It is on my list, as well!
 
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Summer Island Hopping Tips - a Month in July

It’s been a while since I’ve traveled in Greece during peak season, and I’m considering spending about a month there in July. The plan is to split my time between Athens (to visit friends) and hopping to several islands. I’m excited about the energy of summer, but I’m also aware that July can be intense in terms of crowds, heat, and logistics.

For those who have done island hopping in high season, what worked well for you? Is it better to base yourself on one or two islands and take short trips, or fully move around every few days? How far in advance do you typically book ferries and accommodations in July?

I’m also curious about pacing. With a full month, I don’t want to rush, but I also want to make the most of being there. Any tips on routes, balance, or things to avoid during peak season would be really helpful.

Is Island Hopping Worth the Effort?

I've been thinking about trying an island-hopping trip the next time I visit Greece, but I'm wondering if it's actually worth the extra planning and travel time. In the past I've usually picked one island and stayed there for the duration of my vacation, which has been relaxing and let me really get to know the area.

Part of me loves the idea of experiencing several islands in one trip since they each seem to have their own personality, food, scenery, and traditions. On the other hand, I wonder if constantly packing, catching ferries, and checking into new accommodations takes away from the experience.

For those of you who have island-hopped, did you feel it was worth it? How many islands did you visit, and did you wish you had spent more time in fewer places? I'd love to hear your itineraries, tips, and whether you'd do it the same way again.

Best Greek Destinations for History Lovers

I’m thinking about planning a Greece trip next year that is focused almost entirely on history, and I’d love some ideas for the best places to include.

Athens would obviously be part of the itinerary for the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, museums, and other archaeological sites. I’m also considering Delphi, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and maybe spending more time exploring the Peloponnese. Meteora is on my list too, although that would add a different type of historical experience.

I’m especially interested in places where you can really spend time exploring rather than just stopping briefly to see one major site.

If you were planning a history-focused trip to Greece, which destinations would you consider essential? Are there lesser-known archaeological sites, historic towns, museums, Byzantine sites, or ancient ruins that deserve more attention? I’d also love suggestions for putting together an itinerary without trying to cover too much ground.

First Time Tips to Greece

I've been fortunate enough to visit Greece quite a few times over the years, and recently a friend asked me for advice before their very first trip. It surprised me how difficult it was to answer!

Once you've traveled somewhere often, you start taking a lot of things for granted. I'm not sure what the most helpful tips would be for someone experiencing Greece for the first time.

If you were helping a first-time visitor, what advice would you give? I'm thinking about practical things, cultural etiquette, transportation, money, restaurants, pacing an itinerary, or even little things you wish someone had told you before your first visit.

What are the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make, and what are some experiences you think every newcomer should have? I'd love to pass along some advice from people with firsthand experience.

Places to go for the first time in Greece?

A friend of mine is planning her first trip to Greece, and she asked me what she should prioritize for about 10 days. I’ve been lucky enough to go quite a few times, so I gave her a starting point: Athens for the history, Santorini for the views, and Mykonos for the energy and beaches.

She loved that outline, but she wants to add one more destination to round out the trip. That’s where I started second guessing myself a bit, because there are so many good options depending on what kind of experience she wants.

I was thinking maybe somewhere a little different to balance things out, but I’m curious what others would suggest. If you had 10 days and those three spots already planned, what would be your fourth destination for a first-time visitor?
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