1. Where to Stay

You might be exploring a historic city, but Xenodocheio Milos delivers modern comforts without sacrificing charm. It’s on a mission to make you feel at home, no matter how short your stay is—like all of the best hotels in Athens. Rooms here come with high design touches like marble baths, bright wood floors, velvet soft furnishings, and ultra-plush beds. One of the hotel’s best features is found on its ground floor—its delicious dining venue offering Mediterranean breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Rooms start at about $300 per night.

2. Where to Eat

Breakfast at Minu: Start your day with breakfast among locals at Minu, which offers everything you need to fuel your Athens adventure. Minu is a bright, cheerful, and utterly adorable space. The shop also doubles as a concept store, so guests can pick up a few goodies while they wait for their coffee or breakfast. Choose from smoothie bowls to perfectly cooked eggs alongside a cappuccino or cold brew, or even a freddo for a local treat. Coffees start at about $2, while main dishes begin at around $8.

Lunch at Papadakis: Papadakis, located in the Kolonaki neighborhood, is a love letter to Greek cuisine by famed chef Argiro Barbarigou. She pours her heart and soul into creating fresh, local dishes like her white grouper with truffle, Greek salads, and an unforgettable chickpea stew. Expect to spend about $30 per person for a starter and a main, all served with an epic view.

Dinner at Pharaoh: Pharaoh opened its doors in late 2022 and quickly became one of the hottest culinary destinations in the city. This effortlessly cool restaurant features soaring ceilings, spinning vinyl, and fun decor, all complementing the contemporary meals prepared over a wood fire. The wine selections are all-natural and shouldn’t be missed. Enjoy classics like grape leaves or tomato salad, alongside heartier plates of fish and potatoes. Apps start at about $7, while mains begin at $22.

3. What to Do

Make Art at Symposium: Symposium was founded by the father-son duo Georgios and Manos to share their passions for winemaking and ancient Greek art. Visitors can get to know Manos better by taking his sculpting class, an hour-long lesson on creating an ancient Greek face. Classes can be booked via Airbnb experiences starting at $28 per person.

Take a Street Art Tour: Athens is full of outstanding free art, including remarkable street art. Join Awesome Athens Experience for a tour led by locals who will show you the greatest creations while explaining the significance behind each artist’s work. The three-hour tours start at about $35 per person.

Shop at Anthologist: Anthologist is the brainchild of travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, who traversed the globe to find unique items for visitors in Athens. Each piece offers a touch of glamour and mystery, supporting artisans from Greece and beyond. Prices vary, with small local trinkets starting at around $50. Just ensure to reach out ahead of time, as the shop is by appointment only.

See a Show under the Acropolis: Each night, Webster University Library & Cultural Center hosts a captivating performance beneath the lights of the Acropolis. These 60-minute shows feature six major works of Ancient Greek literature, offering a delightful taste of the classics. Each ticket includes a glass of wine for adults and water for kids, available for about $28 per person, but booking in advance is essential as performances tend to sell out.