Greece was never on my “bucket list” of destinations. I thought about cruising to Athens and spending just a day there—enough to see the Acropolis, Parthenon, enjoy a meal in the Plaka, and return to the ship. However, I soon realized that one day is not enough to appreciate Athens’ rich history, culture, and stunning sights. The ancient ruins are important landmarks that showcase a civilization that shaped history. We stayed for four days, during which I learned a lot about Athens. While I could recommend many places to visit, I’ve narrowed it down to five, knowing that some readers may only have a day or two.
Special Note: I added to the bottom of my TOP 5 list a place I do not recommend.
Here are my TOP 5 places to explore when in Athens, Greece.
- PARTHENON and
- ACROPOLIS (I clump these together as they share “real estate”.) First, if you plan on visiting these two very historical sites and some of the most important “ruins” on this planet, you MUST go with a tour. Without one, you will be relegated to the back of the line and lost as to what is what once you arrive. We used Athens Walking Tours and had Antigone as our guide. She was very good keeping the group engaged by sharing her extensive knowledge. My “ADHD-self” appreciated that she fluctuated between being the “teacher” and a bit of a comedian. Just in case you weren’t sure – let me stress that I I enjoyed the tour very much. Confession, I was scared to walk the 200 steps from the base of this massive historical site to the actual ruins. Let me allay your fears. With the tour, you go a few steps – stop. Look around, snap some photos. Then go again. Maybe even walk a ramp versus steps. All in all, it is quite doable for able-bodied people (an elevator is there if you need assistance, just bring a note from your doctor or your handicapped documentation). Once you arrive at the crest, you are amidst some of the most awesome manmade relics known to mankind! TIP: Read up on the history of the Acropolis and Parthenon before well before you arrive in Greece. A little research may have extended my enjoyment even more. The Athens University History Museum is also in the area, and although we didn’t visit, we heard from many residents that it is worth spending some time checking out.
3. PLAKA – This is an open-air market with a substantial number of good restaurants and cute shops. Warning… pickpockets also like this area.
4. Vouliagmeni beach and lake. We took the BIG BUS for about 45 minutes to Lake Vouliagmeni. We got off a few times and then found our way to the lake. To actually see and enjoy the lake, you need to walk a very short distance from the road – downhill. Once you arrive, you can access the lakefront for a small fee (this gets you a lounge chair, swimming access, and other amenities). You can also eat or drink at the cafe and still enjoy a view of the lake.
5. SMILE GASTROTAVERN. This is a restaurant that has excellent, authentic Greek food. The BAKLAVA was simply the best I’ve ever eaten!
AND, SMILE GASTROTAVERN has one of the few handcap accessible bathrooms in an Athens eating establishment! Most restaurants in Athens have their restrooms either up or down a level from their main dining area. This makes using the restroom a challenge or not possible for someone with mobility issues. Only a handful of restaurants offer the same level of restrooms on their main floor with doors wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. TIPS: 1) Make a reservation and 2) Tell Zoey, one of the owners, I say hello!
Not recommended:
I am a “connoisseur” of casinos, especially slot machines. I love to play. Plus, the technology fascinates me! So, when I found out there was a casino in the Athens area, I wanted to check it out!
Sigh. Rarely do I post negative reviews. But, I feel compelled to give some insights to visitors to Athens about the Regency Casino – Mt. Parnes, so they have info I wish I had before wasting my time and money.
First, to get there is no small feat. From the center of Athens, it takes an HOUR. The casino is atop a mountain, and getting there depends on what is “working” – such as the tram, bus service, etc. Each day appears to be a different story as to the best method to access the casino. So, before you venture out to the casino, do yourself a favor and check out what methods of transportation are working. The Cable Car for the casino was not operating during the day I visited.
Once you arrive, know that you are asked a multitude of questions and MUST show your passport. No one voluntered to speak English, unless you ask. Also, the “documents” to register as a “player” are in multiple languages. Mine was in HEBREW! You are given a printout of “coupons” with no explanation. And they are in GREEK! No one offers you a translation or a QR code to get some additional info.
The casino is old. In fact, it looks like an industrial park. Plus, it has OLD slot machines, is not very clean, smells of smoke, and overall is underwhelming. The staff were rude and not helpful. I did not feel overly safe (and I was there mid-afternoon). I left within 20 minutes and was never so happy to get out of a casino in my life.
On a scale of 1-10, I give this casino a “2”- and that is because the view was pretty awesome. Please keep in mind that this is my opinion and is only based on my engagement with their slot machines. Other players may have different, even positive, experiences.
