The affordableLuxury Diary

Category: Greece

  • ATHENS Travel Guide

    Top Attractions | Stays and Food Spots | Trip Recommendations | Transport | LuxHacks | Itinerary | Cost Breakdown

    Let’s get to the Details!

    Athens is a city where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, offering an incredible mix of archaeological wonders, cultural experiences, and lively neighborhoods.

    📍 The affordableLuxury Diary Tip – Hotel Grande Bretagne , although an expensive hotel, it offers discounted rates for corporate people. It’s a good idea to stay near Syntagma Square since it’s within walking distance of all the major attractions. If you’re flying out of Athens International Airport, consider spending your last day in eastern Attica. Dolce by Wyndham Athens Attica Riviera near Athens Airport is a great option—it has a private beach where you can swim and offers a more affordable stay compared to typical five-star hotels. Uber and taxis aren’t exactly cheap, so it’s better to stay within walking distance of the main attractions.

    🏛️ Historical & Archaeological Sites

    1. Acropolis & Parthenon

    The Acropolis is the crown jewel of Athens, a massive rock formation towering over the city with structures dating back to the 5th century BC. The Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, is the most iconic temple, showcasing classical Greek architecture. The views from the top are breathtaking, especially at sunset.

    📍 Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring water, as it gets very hot in summer.

    2. Ancient Agora

    The Agora was the heart of ancient Athens, where philosophers like Socrates and Plato once walked. The Temple of Hephaestus here is one of the best-preserved temples in Greece.

    📍 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for golden-hour photography.

    3. Temple of Olympian Zeus

    Once one of the largest temples in the ancient world, only a few massive columns remain today. The site is near Hadrian’s Arch, a Roman monument worth a quick stop.

    4. Panathenaic Stadium

    Built entirely from marble, this stadium hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896. It’s still used for major events today.

    📍 Tip: Buy a ticket to walk the track and even stand on the podium like an Olympian.

    5. Hadrian’s Library

    This Roman-era library was built by Emperor Hadrian and was once filled with books and lecture halls. The ruins are impressive, giving a glimpse into ancient Roman influence in Athens.

    6. Kerameikos

    An ancient cemetery that’s often overlooked but offers stunning sculptures and tombs. It also has a small yet interesting museum.

    📍 Tip: Ideal for those who enjoy quiet, off-the-beaten-path sites.

    🏛️ Museums & Cultural Highlights

    7. Acropolis Museum

    A modern architectural masterpiece built over an archaeological site, featuring artifacts from the Acropolis. The glass floors reveal ancient streets below.

    📍 Tip: The café has a stunning view of the Parthenon!

    8. National Archaeological Museum

    Greece’s largest and most important museum, housing treasures like the Mask of Agamemnon, bronze statues, and Cycladic figurines.

    9. Benaki Museum

    A beautifully curated collection of Greek history, from ancient artifacts to modern art.

    10. Museum of Cycladic Art

    Famous for its minimalist Cycladic sculptures, dating back over 5,000 years.

    🏘️ Neighborhoods & Local Vibes

    11. Plaka

    Athens’ oldest and most charming neighborhood, with neoclassical buildings, cobblestone streets, and flower-covered balconies. It’s a great place to wander, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a traditional Greek meal.

    📍 Must-visit: Anafiotika, a hidden part of Plaka that looks like a Greek island village!

    12. Monastiraki

    Famous for its flea market, street performers, and lively atmosphere. Visit the square for stunning views of the Acropolis, then explore its narrow streets packed with souvenir shops and tavernas.

    📍 Tip: Great place to bargain for handmade leather sandals and antiques.

    13. Psiri

    A hipster paradise with street art, live music venues, and cozy tavernas. It’s the best spot for authentic Greek nightlife.

    📍 Tip: Try a late-night souvlaki at Lefteris o Politis, a famous local joint.

    14. Anafiotika

    A hidden gem beneath the Acropolis, featuring whitewashed houses, blue shutters, and small winding paths—it feels like being on a Greek island!

    📍 Tip: Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

    15. Kolonaki

    An upscale neighborhood with designer boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafés. Ideal for a sophisticated shopping and dining experience.

    📍 Tip: Visit Lycabettus Hill nearby for the best city views!

    🌅 Scenic Views & Outdoor Spots

    16. Mount Lycabettus

    The highest point in Athens, accessible by hiking or a funicular railway. The view at sunset is unbeatable.

    📍 Tip: Enjoy dinner at Orizontes Restaurant at the top.

    17. Areopagus Hill (Mars Hill)

    A rocky hill next to the Acropolis with panoramic views of Athens. It was used as a court in ancient times and is now a popular sunset spot.

    📍 Tip: Be careful climbing, as the rocks can be slippery!

    18. Philopappos Hill

    Less crowded than Lycabettus, with stunning views of the Acropolis and the sea. The Philopappos Monument at the top is a hidden gem.

    19. National Garden of Athens

    A lush green retreat in the heart of the city, perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic. It’s home to a small zoo and a historic café.

    20. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

    A modern cultural hub with a huge park, a library, and a beautiful view of the Athenian coastline.

    🌊 Best Day Trips from Athens

    21. Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon

    A breathtaking coastal drive leads to the majestic Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff with stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea.

    📍 Tip: Combine it with a swim at nearby beaches!

    22. Delphi

    A UNESCO site, once considered the center of the ancient world. The ruins include the Temple of Apollo and the stunning mountain scenery makes it one of the best archaeological trips from Athens.

    📍 Tip: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum for the famous Charioteer of Delphi statue.

    23. Hydra, Aegina & Poros (Saronic Islands)

    These islands are just a short ferry ride from Athens, perfect for a day trip:

    • Hydra – No cars, just donkeys and beautiful stone mansions.
    • Aegina – Famous for pistachios and the ancient Temple of Aphaia.
    • Poros – A quaint island with a charming harbor and pine-covered hills.

    📍 Tip: Take a one-day cruise to visit all three islands in one trip.

    🍽️ Bonus: Must-Try Greek Foods in Athens

    • Souvlaki & Gyros – Classic Greek street food. Try Kostas (Plaka) or O Thanasis (Monastiraki).
    • Moussaka – A delicious layered dish of eggplant, potatoes, and minced meat.
    • Spanakopita – A crispy spinach-and-feta pie.
    • Loukoumades – Greek honey doughnuts—best at Krinos or Lukumades.
    • Greek Coffee – Strong and rich, best enjoyed at a traditional kafeneio.
    • Greek Alcohol – Ouzo – Greece’s national drink

    Sample Itinerary with Cost

    “Thank you for reading until the end!”
    — the_affordableLuxury_Diary

  • SANTORINI Travel Guide

    Top Attractions | Stays and Food Spots | Trip Recommendations | Transport | LuxHacks | Itinerary | Cost Breakdown

    Thanks for sticking around, let’s continue reading!

    It is no secret that Santorini is the epitome of breathtaking sunsets, stunning views, and fresh seafood. However, as incredible as it sounds, experiencing all the beauty and luxury Santorini offers can certainly put a dent in your wallet.

    But don’t worry, you’re in the right place! After months of research and a personal visit to the island, I’m excited to share my recommendations for an unforgettable, romantic, and luxurious experience—all at an affordable price.

    While some of my suggestions may not be the cheapest options, this guide strikes a balance by mixing affordable activities with a few splurges, ensuring you get the most out of your Santorini trip without breaking the bank.

    The Arrival – To save travel time, plan one trip by flight and, for the full experience, book another via ferry. It’s recommended to arrive by flight to enjoy the sunset on your arrival day and take the ferry back to Athens. This is also a huge benefit for those who plan to drive on the island. The roads to the port are narrow and winding, and it’s easier to drive downhill when returning, rather than going uphill when entering the island.

    The Stay – Good 4-star hotels with great views offer similar experiences to the more expensive 5-star ones. Opt for a high-range suite in a 4-star hotel with a sunset view, and I can promise you won’t disappoint. Many 4-star, like Sophia Luxury Suites offers better views than their expensive counterparts. Cocoon suites offers an exclusive winery and traditional cave like suites. Browse the affordable cave suites in santorini.

    Although hotels in Oia are tourist-friendly, I personally recommend staying in Imerovigli. Situated at the highest point of the caldera than Oia and Fira, Imerovigli offers some of the best 4-star hotels and mesmerizing sunsets. It is also less crowded. However, since it is located quite high on the cliff, you will need to walk some stairs. So, be cautious when booking in Imerovigli if you have health-related concerns. In that case, Fira might be a better option for you.

    If you like staying in the hustle bustle then hotels in fira has an advantage of being close to many good walkable food places.

    The Food – Food is excellent all over the island. Fira, being the capital, has the most restaurants, with Oia coming in second. Seabream, a common catch from the Aegean Sea, is a must-try. The island is also known for its great local wines, thanks to its many wineries.

    The Transport – Uber and taxis are expensive on the island. If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car will be a better and cheaper option. However, parking could be an issue in the busy months and be aware that the roads are steep and narrow, making it stressful to drive along the cliffs. If you’re an intermediate mountain driver, take the sea-level roads instead of those along the cliffs (map below for the alternate route).

    But be aware that you need to drive uphill or downhill to reach your hotel, as the hotels with the best views are located on the cliffs, especially if you are staying in Imerovigli or Oia.

    The Sunset and Blue Domes – Well! what can I say Santorini’s Sunset is something to keep with you forever. Imerovigli view point offers one of the best sunset on the island. Watch the sunset while hiking the path from oia to fira. Take pictures in front of the iconic blue domes of Oia.

    The Cruise – Don’t miss taking a cruise day trip to see the Red, White, and Black Beaches. The cruise stops in the sea, where you can experience a natural hot spring, swim, or simply bask in the sun.

    The Month – The best months to visit the island are between April and September. If you’re someone like me who enjoys experiencing the local vibe, then consider visiting between late September and early November. While some hotels begin closing by mid to late October, you’ll still find great options like Sophia Luxury Suites, and this is your chance to grab the best deals.

    Other Noteworthy Mentions – Keep an afternoon to visit a winery and roam around the beaches downhill from the cliff such as, Baxedes, Pori and Monolithos. Visit Pyrgos village, top most point of the island and explore the village to get the local experience.

    The island is not very big and 3 days 2 nights offers a perfect balance to experience the top attractions of the place. I have put together an Itinerary with cost breakdown to help you plan your next trip.

    Day 1Day 2Day 3
    – Arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon.
    – Get ready to enjoy the sunset from your room.
    – Walk to the nearest blue dome for sunset pictures.
    – Stroll around Fira and end the day by dining in Fira.    		– Visit the Blue domes and three bells to take pictures
    – Stroll the local market of Oia until the pre-booked cruise company picks you up.
    – Spend the day sailing on the Aegean Sea and visiting the famous beaches
    – Wake up early for hiking the path of Oia to Fira.
    It’s a full 2 hours hike, but you can do half.
    – Visit the churches and Ammoudi bay in Oia
    – Drive around the downhill beaches to your way to pyrgos and down to the port for departure
    Cost Breakdown of an Approximate 3 day 2 night in Santorini Stay (in CAD)
    Hotel : $650-$900 per night
    Transport (car rent) : $150-$200
    Food : $500
    Cruise Charges with food and BBQ : $200
    Misc : $100
    Total : $2250-$2800 (the cost of stay significantly goes down if you travel in fall)

    “Thank you for reading until the end!”
    — the_affordableLuxury_Diary