I pack, therefore I go. This summer I ventured to Athens – the birthplace of philosophy, democracy, theatre, classical architecture, as well as the Olympics. Today this modern city, rich in heritage and littered with ancient ruins, is often bypassed for its flashier local isles. (An offence I am totally guilty of.) But on this occasion, I decided to pay my respects to the city that invented pretty much everything cool.
Like on the islands, summer is HOT in Athens. So for a day of sightseeing, I wore a loose-fit cotton dress, with drapping that even the mighty Aphrodite (goddess of love and beauty) would approve of. And in a shade of cobalt blue that would make any Greek audience applaud. Paired with a cotton hat, big sunnies, a small studded leather crossbody bag, and a pair of metallic Birkenstocks, I was dressed for city touring.
First, I visited the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Set against a big blue sky backdrop, the toppled over columns are a humbling tribute to the ancient structures of the city. And a great place to get a cheeky first glance at the very famous Parthenon in the distance.
Then, I visited the Ancient Agora, which literally means a “place of gathering.” This archaeological site was once an urban hub filled with markets, as well as spaces for political and intellectual speakers. (So basically – it was the Internet.) There, famous minds like Plato and Socrates would assemble and debate life’s issues among the temples and trees. While the buzz may be gone, it remains a lovely place to stroll, sit, and contemplate.
And then, I went on to the Parthenon. But not without a little bit of drama while walking… and walking… and walking, uphill, past an ancient (yet still functioning) amphitheatre overlooking the city. Let it be known that the Greeks get the art of performance!
Despite the construction and cranes that surround it, witnessing the Parthenon up close was the ultimate climax in Athens sightseeing. Considered to be perfect because of its inherent architectural design, it is a majestic marvel of a building. Neighboured by the Temple of Athena Nike, the smaller but lovely tribute to the goddess of wisdom, it’s no wonder why this is the most celebrated acropolis in the city.
After an active morning, I stopped at Fagopoteion, a family-run restaurant with authentic Mediterranean food. Tempted by everything vegetarian on display, I ordered a hearty Greek salad, stuffed peppers, filo spinach pie, and a cold beer. Sitting in the back dining room, filled with artworks and garden views, I happily over ate. Thankfully my dress was forgiving.
Post lunch, I walked off my meal with a quick stop at an Olympic stadium and then went to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, home to Greek artefacts. As well as A/C, making it the perfect place to tour during the late day heat.
And lastly, I rode up to Lycabettus Hill for a supremely stunning vantage point of the city, with the Parthenon at its center. And then on to the local ice cream pallor (next to the above mentioned lunch spot). Because hey – I like a sweet ending!
hat: Hat Attack / dress and bag: J.Crew / shoes: Birkenstock / sunglasses: Kate Spade
Lamb Travel Tips
For dinner, I visited two restaurants with Parthenon views, both of which were amazing!
Galaxy Restaurant and Bar (at the Hilton Athens): high above the skyline, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the acropolis and an excellent cocktail and Mediterranean menu for a pretty (but worth it) penny/euro. Go at sunset.
Strofi Tavern: situated in the neighborhood below the acropolis, this restaurant’s roof terrace looks up at the glowing site (pic below). With a modestly priced Greek menu and friendly service, this restaurant is a fantastic pick.
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