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acamp7

Active member
What are some great spots to listen to traditional Greek music in downtown Athens? I love bouzouki especially, and would love to see some talented musicians performing it live. Have any of you been to any rebetathika or restaurants with live music that would have some performances to listen to? Thanks everyone!
 
Paraliaki (this is around Glyfada, Palio Faliro, etc... The places near the water.)
 
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If you’re staying right in Central Athens near The Plaka, Cafe Kapnikarea (off Ermou St.) has live Rembetika music from 2:30 in the afternoon and again from 8 - 11 at night. It’s not a fancy place like the late night beachfront clubs, but it’s reasonably priced. You can have drinks & mezes or dinner - all delicious. If you’re lucky, you can even join the dancing on pedestrian Ermou Street. Family-owned for many years, it’s a little hidden gem!
 
If you’re staying right in Central Athens near The Plaka, Cafe Kapnikarea (off Ermou St.) has live Rembetika music from 2:30 in the afternoon and again from 8 - 11 at night. It’s not a fancy place like the late night beachfront clubs, but it’s reasonably priced. You can have drinks & mezes or dinner - all delicious. If you’re lucky, you can even join the dancing on pedestrian Ermou Street. Family-owned for many years, it’s a little hidden gem!
Great recommendation thank you!
 
Paraliaki (this is around Glyfada, Palio Faliro, etc... The places near the water.)
I love the glyfada area, I’ve been to many great outdoor restaurants there.
 
I agree, Glyfada is great! There is bouzouki music all around, but it is hard to plan. Every time I try to plan, I can't find anything, but I've stumbled on some great music by chance. I have found bouzouki music in Glyfada at one of the restaurants!
 

Which Temples Around Athens Are Worth Visiting Beyond the Parthenon?

I’ve been to the Parthenon before and absolutely loved it, but next time I’m in Athens, I’d like to go beyond the obvious. I know the city and surrounding region are full of ancient temples that don’t get as much attention, and I’d love to explore some of them.

Are there particular temples in or near Athens that stand out for their beauty, history, or atmosphere? I’ve heard the Temple of Hephaestus is remarkably well-preserved, but what about others—maybe a bit outside the city, like Sounion or Eleusis? Are any of them easy to reach by public transport or day trip?

I’m especially interested in sites that still feel powerful or peaceful to visit, without the huge crowds. Would love your recommendations for must-see temples, hidden gems, or personal favorites among Greece’s ancient sanctuaries.

Is renting a car necessary in Athens?

I’m planning to spend a few days in Athens this summer before heading off to the islands, and I’m trying to decide whether renting a car is actually necessary while I’m there.

Part of me likes the flexibility of having a car, especially if I want to explore beyond the main historic center. On the other hand, I’ve heard traffic can be intense, parking is limited, and public transportation is fairly easy to use for the major sites.

My plan is to see the Acropolis, wander neighborhoods like Plaka and Koukaki, enjoy some good food, and maybe do one day trip if time allows. After that, I’ll be taking a ferry.

For those who’ve spent a few days in Athens, did you rent a car or rely on walking, taxis, and public transport? Was having a car helpful, or more of a hassle than it was worth? I’d appreciate honest advice.

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.

How much time do you really need at the Acropolis?

It’s been several years since I last visited the Acropolis, and I’m trying to help some friends plan their first trip to Athens. I honestly can’t remember how long I spent there, I just remember being completely absorbed in everything and losing track of time!

They’re wondering how much time to set aside, and I don’t want to underestimate it. I know there’s the main climb, the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and all those sweeping views, plus time for photos and just soaking it all in.

Would you say two hours is enough for a relaxed visit, or does it really take closer to half a day if you include the museum or nearby sites? I’d love to hear what others recommend, especially those who’ve been recently, how long did it take you to see everything without feeling rushed?

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!
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