This was our second trip to Athens. Our first was in 1995 when I was invited to defend a business school thesis on Using the Internet to Reach Overseas Markets. At that time, the Internet was viewed as a fad and not for business. My paper was compelling, so I was invited to present and defend it to a few hundred Economists. This time, we were taking a few days before a cruise through the Greek Islands.
Fun Facts: Athens is full of orange-like trees, “nerantzies,” lining the streets, but their fruits are not for eating! They are to provide shade and a sweet smell when they bloom.
What Stood Out
Extreme National and Cultural Pride – As one of the oldest civilizations, the Greeks take great pride in their city and heritage, and they’re delighted to see you enjoy it.
The Food – If you have read my travel posts, you know I’m a fan of grilled meat and seafood, and any local hard bread.
Day 1 – Central Athens
Acropolis of Athens — This is a required stop. We did not go to the top because we had been there before. It is well-lit at night and makes for a great sight. You can also visit the Acropolis Museum.
The Plaka – The Plaka is the oldest section of Athens. Most of the streets have been closed to automobile traffic and it is a great place to walk and have a coffee in the afternoon or evening. It has many colorful shops.
Day 2 – Wandering Athens
These three are all located in the same area, approximately an hour’s drive from Yerevan, passing through the mountains and offering an amazing view of Mt. Ararat.
Varvakios Central Municipal Market– We love walking in the old food and seafood markets. This one was amazing and we found a resturant that has multiple items that made up a meal.
What to Eat
Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of marinated meat (pork, chicken, lamb, or beef), often served with pita bread, vegetables, and tzatziki. This and Japanese Okonomiyaki are the two things I can eat every day. We did have it multiple times.
Fasolada Soup —One of my favorite soups. This fiber-rich soup of large white beans in a savory broth is amazing.
Grilled Seafood – The only thing better than grilled meat is grilled seafood. In the old market, we stumbled upon a small restaurant for lunch that offered large grilled prawns, grilled sardines, and nice broccolini. We found this assortment at Ταβέρνα Μαχαιρίτσα (Taverena Maxairitsa) in the old market.
Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs, sometimes with meat. I got hooked on these during our trip to Egypt and Jordan and need to try them everywhere.
Salad, vegetables, and hummus – Greeks often include a lot of vegetables in their meals. I thought they must eat the most tomatoes of anyone since every meal has them. That honor goes to China. Everything was fresh and delicious. At dinner, we had a salad of tomatoes, peppers, and various greens, as well. The hummus with pomegranate or pine nuts was one of the best I have had.
Where to Stay
Hotel Grande Bretagne – As Marriott Bonvoy members with status, we secured a great deal using points at this hotel for the first few days of our trip. We also stayed the night before our return flight at their sister hotel, King George, which was equally impressive. The view from the restaurant of the Grande Bretagne of the Acropolis is terrific for a drink or breakfast. The hotel is in the heart of everything, across from the palace.
