It’s a wonder that the Greeks had time to develop mathematics and philosophy between rounds of basking their perfectly chiseled muscles in that hot Mediterranean sun. But as any visitors to the Hellenic Republic will discover, from historic ruins to beaches, stuffed wine leaves to feta cheese, Greece truly has it all. Take a whirlwind tour of Aristotle and Pythagoras’s nation in three days before either heading home or on to another European adventure.
Day 1: Athens
Start your trip in the most famous of Greek cities, Athens. The capital is not only chock full of historic sites, but it is also a perfect jumping off point for daytrips throughout the Greek peninsula.
- The Acropolis: A city in and of itself, the religious complex dominating the city was built in the honor of the Goddess Athena. The deal with the deity was simple: smash our invaders to pieces, and we will build you a breathtaking structure to last throughout the ages. Both Athena and the Athenians seem to have upheld their end so far, as you will witness during your exploration of the sacred peak.
- The Parthenon: Originally a grand temple to Athena and later an Orthodox Church, Catholic Church, mosque, and gunpowder storehouse, the Parthenon has seen it all. Fortunately for visitors, this crowning edifice atop the Acropolis and Athens’ most famous monument has lost none of its appeal since it was first constructed in 438 BC.
- The Erectheion: This architectural landmark, also located on the Acropolis, started out as an annex of sorts to the Parthenon but gained in significance throughout the centuries. Sculpted women known as the Caryatids serve as its pillars.
- The Aeropagus: This unassuming rocky hill is the birthplace of Greek government. As you navigate around the tourists, try to imagine the Court of Appeals and the Council of Elders that once called this place their office.
- Acropolis Museum: Having taken your mandatory tourist snapshots, head to the Acropolis Museum to find out more about the ruins you spent the first part of the day visiting. Many original architectural relics are actually stored here, while a degradable plaster copy takes its place on the Acropolis (you’ve been tricked!).
- National Gardens: While the remainder of the afternoon away in the peaceful and relaxing National Gardens. The park has got you covered, whether you seek romantic shade or botanical gardens; enjoy some Greek street food as you meander through the palm trees.
Suggested Dining: Athens is full of eateries. Wander the streets, stop at Paradosiako for cheap cheese fare, or head to Beneth for mouth-watering baklava. And when the night settles in, dance the night away with some local Aphrodite at Passepartout or Venti.
Day 2: Greek Coast-ing
Hop on a bus to luxurious Vouliagmeni, peaceful Vravrona, and historical Sounion for the day. Public transport will be packed, especially in the summer, but the three sites are only a short drive away from Athens.
- Lake Vouliagmeni: This “sunken lake” was once a cavern before an earthquake caused the roof to collapse, leaving behind a massive and unexplored network of underwater caves. More than the perfect setting for a horror movie, Vouliagmeni is now a luxurious hot spring famed for the quality of its water, its skin-nibbing fish, and the beautiful scenery.
- Vravrona: This quiet countryside town is home to the famous Temple of Artemis, hidden between the fig trees and the vineyards. The temple was built on top of a sacred spring and staffed entirely by women (Artemis was a hardcore feminist). Enjoy a bit of quiet and stop at a local eatery or wine cellar.
- Cape Sounion: if you can awake from your lunch nap, head on to Cape Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon. The terrorizing god of the sea still makes his presence felt throughout the ruins, so make sure not to slip to your death as you visit the edifice on the cliffs. The sunsets at Sounion are also quite famous, and with good reason. Watch it from the temple itself or from a seaside restaurant before heading back to Athens on one of the numerous tourist buses.
Day 3: Island Hopping
Only in Greece can commuters say they are going to ride home on a flying dolphin and be taken seriously. Don’t be fooled by their colorful name—"flying dolphins" are high-speed ferries connecting the islands surrounding Athens and can be your gateway to a beautiful day of island hopping.
- Poros: Almost a suburb of Athens, this colorful island is covered in trees. Pine trees, lemon trees, olive trees—Poros loves them all. Take a walk across the Lemon Forest or visit the Zoodochou Pigi Monastery before going sunbathing on one of the numerous beaches. Taverna Appagio will serve you hearty portions of local seafood when you get hungry.
- Hydra: Once a haven for pirates, Hydra now stubbornly refuses to step into the 21st century, as no motorized vehicles are allowed on the island. Take a donkey taxi (nothing is ridiculous after riding a flying dolphin) to explore this picturesque city, described by many as Greece’s most beautiful island. The National Historical Museum is worth a stop but the real attraction here is the people watching. Whistle the afternoon away in a cafe before the sun sets and Hydra’s nightlife kicks in; then head to the Pirate Bar for great drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Suggested Lodging: The social Athens Backpackers provides you with friends to party with along with cheap and clean dorm rooms. Hotel Kimon offers small but affordable singles if dorm style is just not your style. Students and Travellers Inn has a range of rooms to choose from and a parrot. Enough said.