This post is all about what not to do in Athens, Greece.
Athens is a city that’s on everyone’s bucket list.
With all the ruins, historical landmarks, tasty food, and jaw-dropping landscapes – it’s easy to see why everyone is flocking to see the wondrous Athens.
Planning a trip to one of the most known cities in the world is overwhelming, It can be so easy to make a few simple mistakes.
Here’s a complete list of what NOT to do in Athens. These are 17 common mistakes most travelers make in Athens, Greece.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Before you read about all the things you should NOT do in Athens, here’s a free printable checklist of all the things you SHOULD do!
Whenever I hear someone say they didn’t enjoy their trip to Athens, my first question is always “Where did you stay?”
Just like most major cities around the world, staying in an Airbnb an hour away from the city center can certainly make or break a trip. In Athens especially, it’s easy to end up somewhere not ideal for tourists.
Stick to staying in the neighborhoods of Psiri, Monastiraki, or Plaka.
All the neighborhoods I mentioned above are touristy, but within walking distance of most attractions and good restaurants.
If you are wanting to stay in a neighborhood more authentic, but still near the tourist hotspots, check out Exarcheia.
This is where a lot of young professionals live. It’s also a big artistic community where you’ll see punk rock-themed bars and graffiti everywhere. There are loads of good restaurants and bars in this area.
3. Eating at Tourist Trap Restaurants
Most of the time, when waiters are standing outside a restaurant heckling people to come inside, the food is not good.
There are parts of Athens that are touristy and have good restaurants, and other parts that are touristy that have bad restaurants. Plaka is one of those neighborhoods that is beautiful and has lovely shops but is notorious for its bad food.
Of course, the best food in Athens can be found in the residential outskirts of Athens where you likely won’t be. However! As mentioned; Psiri, Monastiraki, and Exarcheia all have wonderful dining options and are near the city center.
A few of my favorite restaurants are Bandiera, Oineas, and Avli.
4. Thinking It’s Warm Year-Round
Believe it or not, Greece can get cold. When I volunteered at a hostel in Athens during the month of November, travelers would check in all the time shocked that it was freezing. In fact, at times it can even snow (though this is rare).
While Athens is warm most of the year, it’s going to be chilly from November – March.
5. Just There For the Ruins
Athens is packed with all kinds of ancient monuments worth seeing. The Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Panathenaic Stadium, the list goes on!
Oftentimes, travelers jam-pack their 2-3 day itinerary full of these tours and rarely leave room for the other parts of Athens that make it so great. This can lead a traveler to feel as if their trip is a history lesson rather than an enjoyable experience. It can totally be both!
Be sure to save time in your itinerary for eating at tavernas, the national gardens, or having a cocktail at Clumsies (one of the best cocktails in the world!)
Nobody likes a trip planned so tight, that it makes your brain hurt. So prioritize your list of monuments you’d love to see, but don’t overdo it.
6. Not Having Enough Cash
While cards will get you through most places in Athens, you’ll always want to have a few euros with you. There may be occasions where you need to tip a tour guide or pay for your meal in a cash-only taverna.
7. Ordering the Wrong Food
Greek food is some of the best cuisine in the world. Be sure to do just a little research on what to order, and what to expect.
Here is a quick cheat sheet to help you:
Authentic greek salads don’t have lettuce. Typically, they consist of tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, green bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
In Greece, gyros & souvlaki are the traditional meat dishes, not kebabs. Souvlaki is meat skewers with pork or chicken. Gyros consist of your choice of shaved meat wrapped in pita with toppings. Of course, you will find kebabs in Greece, but souvlaki and gyros are the traditional dishes.
Most restaurants serve ouzo and a small house dessert after every meal.
Fresh orange juice is a must You’ll find it at any coffee shop or bakery.
Saganaki Cheese is a delicious appetizer.
While there are many well-known Greek desserts, Loukoumades are famous in Athens. These Greek donuts are a scrumptious treat for any foodie.
8. Skipping the Nightlife
Athens has some truly amazing nightlife. Don’t skip out on it! Some even declare Athens as “the new Berlin”.
Whether you’re looking for techno clubs, bougie cocktails, or dive bars – Athens really has it all.
Here are a few of my favorite nightlife spots in Athens:
-Techno: S.I.X dogs (weekends or special events only), BLAST Athens, or anywhere in the Gazi neighborhood.
-Cocktails: Barrett, The Clumsies, Juan Rodriguez
-Dive Bars: Handlebar, Bad Tooth
9. Not Watching Your Stuff
Just like in any major city, travelers will need to keep an eye on their belongings. Before you leave for your trip, make sure to get anti-theft purses or day bags.
Also, be sure to have your valuables locked up, even when you leave your room or Airbnb.
Hotels and hostels that have 24-hour security will greatly reduce the risk of your belongings getting stolen.
10. Staying at an Airbnb
Airbnb (in my opinion) is NOT the move in Athens.
There are times and places when I prefer Airbnb over hotels & hostels, but Athens is not one of them.
Athens is so big, you can easily catch yourself in a neighborhood that is still in Athens but is nearly 2 hours outside the city center.
The hotels & hostels in Athens are generally better located and are going to give you the biggest bang for your buck.
During my first week in Athens, I couldn’t understand how I kept getting mealtime “freebies”.
In most authentic greek tavernas, you will always be served some type of bread, a small dessert, and ouzo with your meal.
Of course, there are variations of this tradition depending on where you dine. If you don’t receive any of these traditional dishes, you are probably dining at a tourist hot spot.
12. Eating too Early
Mealtimes tend to be later in the day in Greece.
Lunch is typically served 2-3 pm and dinner around 9 pm.
13. Not Taking Metered Taxis
Not only should this rule just apply in Athens. but in every big city!
For transportation, you can take the subway, taxis, or Uber.
If you’re taking a taxi, just double-check BEFORE you get in the vehicle that you can see a meter. Or haggle with the taxi driver on a flat rate beforehand.
14. Forgetting to Cover Up in Churches & Monasteries
Stunning and historic churches are all over Athens. It’s expected to cover up and dress a little modestly to enter.
15. Thinking Tap Water is Dangerous
While water on the greek islands is not safe to drink, in Athens it’s perfectly fine.
Although safe to drink, there’s always a chance that your body isn’t used to drinking water in other countries. Check out life straw water bottles so your water is always filtered.
16. Buying Weird Souvenirs
Don’t get me wrong, weird souvenirs are a special type of awesome sometimes. In Athens. you will notice many of the souvenir shops all sell the same items. Most of the time, these “greek souvenirs” are not even made in Greece.
Here are ideas for traditional souvenirs to buy in Athens that you will love:
-olive oil
-custom leather sandals
-greek honey
-gold jewelry
17. Not Knowing a Few Greek Words
Most Athenians speak English, but it’s still important you learn a few Greek terms just so you can be more aware of your experience and surroundings.
Kalimera – good morning
Kalispera – good evening
Kalinichta – goodnight
Yasou – hello or goodbye
Parakalo – please/you’re welcome/ (also used when answering the phone)
Efcharistó – thank you
Tikanis – how are you?
Nai – yes
Thelo – I want
What Not to do in Athens
Overall, this list should be taken with a grain of salt! There simply is no right or wrong way to travel when you’re on vacation. I hope this post provided you with some tips for traveling in Athens.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Planning a trip to Bordeaux? This post is all about the ultimate Bordeaux Travel Guide
Ah, Bordeaux! The charming wine-filled city in Southwestern France. If you want to feel like a medieval queen with exquisite taste in everything art, wine, and architecture – Bordeaux is your city.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Why You Should Visit
Bordeaux is worth a visit, just for the whimsical 18th-century architecture alone. Many of the buildings were commissioned by Napoleon I and even inspired several modern buildings in Paris. The city itself is a work of art.
As you meander through the cobblestone streets you’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time.
Let’s not forget how this majestic city is a world capital for wine. If you’re a wine lover, this is the place to be.
This destination is perfect for anyone interested in architecture, wine tastings, and the arts.
Getting to Bordeaux is simple, just about any type of transportation will lead you there.
Bus – Flix Bus tickets are no doubt one of the cheapest ways to get to Bordeaux.
Train – Browse Rome to Rio for the best train tickets from your city.
Plane – Fly into Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport. A bus runs from the airport to the city center every 30 minutes from the airport from 05:45 am to 8 pm during weekdays and every hour on weekends.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Bordeaux has plenty of options for anyone.
I’ve personally stayed at Hostel 20 and loved my experience in the all-female dorm. It’s in Chartrons district which is one of the most desirable neighborhoods of the City.
Get the “Bordeaux look” with these stylish essentials.
Bordeaux Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Bordeaux
1. Grosse Cloche de Bordeaux
This fascinating middle-aged grand gate was an entrance to the city dating back all the way to the 15th century. The bell would ring on special occasions or alert the city of an attack.
Nowadays the bell is used only 5 times a year on special holidays to preserve it.
2. Place de la Bourse Square & Miroir d’Eau (water mirror)
Place de la Bourse Square symbolizes freedom from the medieval architecture that confined the once-walled city.
You’ll marvel at the glorious 18th-century classical french style square.
Just across from the square, you’ll see one of the most iconic modern landmarks of Bordeaux, the Water Mirror.
3. Wine Tasting
Of course, you can’t go to Bordeaux without drinking a scrumptious glass of wine.
Since Bordeaux is a wine capital, be sure to book a wine-tasting or wine tour on your visit. They book fast so you’ll want to prepare in advance.
4. Walk the Pont de Pierre
200 years ago, the “stone bridge” was the first bridge to be built across the River Garonne.
No trip to Bordeaux is complete without walking across this historic path!
5. Go Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine
Speaking of iconic places to walk in Bordeaux, you’ll definitely want to check out the famous shopping street in the city.
Just like Barcelona’s La Rambla or New York’s 5th avenue. Rue Saint Catherine is THE place to shop when in Bordeaux.
6. Go to the Opera
The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is a beautiful and intricate opera house and a wonderful place to spend an evening in Bordeaux.
Check out shows and prices on their website here. For anyone under the age of 28, you can score a last-minute seat for under $10.
7. Monument aux Girondins
Monument aux Girondins is a striking memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Reign of Teror.
8. Take a Day Trip to Saint Emilion
Venture close by to Saint Emilion. Many wine tours from Bordeaux will take you to the quaint village, or you can go on your own time.
By train, it’s about 35 minutes to St Emilion. Or if you aren’t on a strict budget and looking for a more inclusive tour, check out these day trip tours below that depart from Bordeaux.
9. Go on a Free Walking Tour
I take a free walking tour in every city I visit. I SWEAR by them! They are undoubtedly the best way to explore a new city in a limited amount of time. Plus you’ll be guided by a local and may even meet some new friends!
June – August is the best time to visit Bordeaux for the vineyard experience. Although, it’s also hot and filled with tourists.
September is also a great time when vineyards are still open and summer is coming to an end.
Planning the length of your trip to Bordeaux largely depends on your interest. To get a full taste of what the city has to offer, I would recommend staying for 3-4 days.
Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
Overall, Bordeaux is a glorious city packed with many things to do and explore. I would definitely recommend visiting this picturesque city,
This post was all about the ultimate Bordeaux Travel Guide & the best things to do in Bordeaux.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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This post is all about things to do in Athens Greece.
It’s no secret that Athens is one of the most exciting cities in the world – and has been for thousands of years.
This ancient city happens to be the oldest capital in all of Europe (even older than Rome!)
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
In the months I’ve spent in Athens, I’ve often found travelers’ most common mistake is only booking 1-2 days.
Athens is big, and it feels like every corner you turn you’re greeted with a historical landmark.
Here are 21 things to do in Athens Greece.
Don’t forget to print your FREE Athens Checklist Printable.
One of the most fascinating landmarks of Athens is, of course, the Acropolis.
The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky complex consisting of several buildings of great historical significance. The most complete building still standing today is the famous Parthenon.
This structure sits high in the middle of Athens, dominating the city and illuminating the night.
Be sure to make a visit to the Acropolis your top priority in Athens. Check out this Skip the Line Acropolis tour with a licensed archaeologist.
2. Tour the Ancient Agora of Athens
There are two Agoras of Athens – the Ancient and the Roman.
Once a thriving marketplace for Athenians, the Ancient Agora is a predominant piece of Athens history.
This complex includes the monumental Temple of Hephaestus, Stoa of Attalos, and a small museum.
Did you know the only stadium in the world built completely of marble resides in Athens? Only representing the most majestic theatrical experience for Athenians, this stadium is one of a kind.
4. Watch the Sunset on Lycabettus Hill
Lycabettus hill offers one of the best views in the city.
To get to the top of Lycabettus, you can either climb the 200 steps to the top or take the cable car.
5. Take a Day trip to the Temple of Poseidon
Visit the temple dedicated to the “Master of the Sea”. Located on Cape Sounion, it’s just an hour from the center of Athens. This sunset tour includes full roundtrip transportation from the city.
6. See the Roman Agora
Constructed in the 1st century BC, the Roman Agora is another fascinating historical compound to see in Athens. Admire the gate of Athena from afar or pay 2 euros to take a stroll through the agora.
7. Acropolis Museum
After seeing the Acropolis, learn more about the history of the impressive structure at the Acropolis Museum.
Entrance to the museum is 5-10 euros. Additionally, it’s included in many Athens packages and tours like this guided tour here.
8. Anafiotika
Anafiotika is the charming neighborhood in Plaka that shows off its island-like architecture. With its white-washed buildings, clay pots, and bright colors, it’s one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Athens.
This neighborhood also offers one of the best viewpoints of the city.
9. Walk around Psiri & Monastiraki
Psiri & Monastiraki district is one of the trendiest areas of Athens. Streets are lined with cute cafes, fun nightlife spots, and stunning rooftop bars.
10. Eat chocolate cake at Nancy’s Sweet Home
Since you’ll be in Monastiraki, head to Nancy’s Sweet Home and get in line for one of their famous chocolate cakes.
11. Take a Free Walking Tour
Free walking tours are the best way to get to a new city without spending a fortune. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers!
Rated one of the top 50 best bars in the world, The Clumsies is somewhere you must stop to have a drink.
I ordered a seasonal summer drink that came with a strip of sunscreen! Clumsies isn’t just any ordinary bar, it’s an experience.
13. Walk around Plaka
Plaka feels like a secret village in the center of Athens. Being the oldest neighborhood in the capital, a walk through the creaky whimsical streets beneath the Acropolis is a magical to experience.
14. Zappeion
The Zappeion is of the city center’s most well-known landmarks. Once used as the main fencing hall for the 1896 Olympics, the building is now repurposed for important meetings and ceremonies.
15. Stroll Through the Little Kook
Step into a fairy tale on one of the most unique streets in Athens! Little Kook is a completely themed street that changes themes every month. Not only is the street just decorated, but all the shops, cafes, and restaurants are too.
Some of my favorite themes have been Halloween, Christmas, Peter Pan, and Alice in Wonderland.
16. Visit the Archaeological Museum
Showcasing extensive artifacts from Roman, Egyptian, and Greek history, the Archaeological Museum is yet another museum in Athens that is considered one of the best in the world.
17. See Syntagma Square
Syntagma square is often considered the heart of Athens. It’s one of the most popular spots in the city for shopping, protests, and other public meetings.
18. Walk Through the National Gardens
After you’ve seen Syntagma, head over to the beautiful National Gardens. The entrance is free, and it’s a stunning oasis in the center of Athens.
19. Take Advantage of Athen’s Nightlife
What most people don’t know is Athens has a seriously amazing night scene.
S.I.X dogs is one of the most popular bars/clubs in the city. The venue transforms from bar to club depending on the day so be sure to check their schedule.
Other great bars are Juan Rodriguez, Barrett, and Handlebar.
20. Go to a Rooftop Bar
Athens is full of rooftop bars with a jaw-dropping view of the Acropolis.
Some of the best rooftop bars are A for Athens, 360 Cocktail Bar, and Couleur Locale.
21. Eat Traditional Greek Food
While Greece is full of beauty and history, I must say the best part of this country is the cuisine. Traditional Greek dishes are some of the tastiest in the world.
Don’t forget to try souvlaki, saganaki, a Greek salad, and wash it all down with Ouzo.
A few of my favorite restaurants are Bandiera, Oineas, and Avli.
Have a great trip to Athens and be sure to save this post for your future trip to Greece!
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Slovak Pub – The most popular restaurant in Bratislava for traditional Slovak food. Slovak Pub is located in the heart of the city and is famous for its unique interior and garlic soup.
FlagShip – Similar to Slovak Pub as it shares the same owner, but is slightly different in style and variety. Much like its sister restaurant, it has a unique interior as it’s located in an old ornate theater. Flagship is known for its halušky, sweet dumplings, and house-brewed beers.
Zylinder – Another great option for traditional food in Bratislava with an emphasis on Austrian-Hungarian empire-inspired dishes.
Breakfast
Rannô Ptáča – A way underrated breakfast spot in Bratislava. This was some of the best breakfast I’ve had in Europe. It reminded me of a classic American breakfast back home.
Urban House – A hipster breakfast spot in the center of the old town. Known for its pancakes and a wide variety of vegetarian dishes.
Mondieu – One of the most popular but also most expensive and touristy breakfast spots in Bratislava.
Coffee
Black. – A simple concept with big flavors. This hipster coffee shop is one of my personal favorite spots for a steaming cup of joe.
Sweet Beans – A cute and quiet family-owned coffee shop in the center of the city.
Coffein Specialty – Light and airy coffee shop that is great for working on your laptop. Also serves brunch.
Quick Bites & Street Food
Grizzly Tacos – Tasty street tacos offering meat and vegetarian options. The guacamole is fantastic.
Quinsboro – Classic tasty burger joint located right in the center.
Foodstock – Delicious blend of Asian and vegetarian dishes.
Slovak Food to Trry
Halušky – Soft noodles or dumplings with creamy sheep cheese and topped with fried bacon.
Cabbage Soup (Kapustnica) – Traditional Slovak soup made with sauerkraut, smoked ham hock, sausage, mushrooms, and spices.
Potato Pancakes (Zemiakové Placky) – Shallow fried pancakes made out of potato.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Looking for the perfect Ios Greece Travel Guide for your island hopping getaway? Here’s the ultimate travel guide for Ios, Greece.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Ios is a stunning island located in the Cyclades between Santorini and Naxos.
Often overshadowed by its neighbors, Santorini & Mykonos, Ios is an island lovers’ paradise (with about a quarter of the crowds!)
After staying two weeks in Ios Greece, I discovered the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of the island.
Ios Island Greece Travel Guide
When to Visit
June to early September. Businesses start to shut down when the tourist season ends, so be sure to plan your trip before the second week of September.
How Long to Stay
3 days is the perfect amount of time in Ios.
What to Wear
The weather during peak season is blazing hot, so pack light and airy clothing. Towards late August/early September it can get quite windy, so consider bringing a jacket.
Chora (pronounced hor-ah) means the main town or village. This is the main area of Ios where you will find the best dinner spots, shopping, and nightlife. While it’s nice to explore during the day, the Chora comes to life at night around 8 pm. You will spend most of your evenings here!
Mylopotas Beach
Mylopotas is the place to be before heading up the Chora. It’s the perfect place to sunbathe and grab an iced latte or fresh orange juice. There are lots of cafes, shops, and brunch spots.
The Port
While most of the time you will likely be exploring the Chora or Mylopotas, there are some nice restaurants and hotels near the port.
Best Beaches
There are literally dozens of beaches in Ios. Here are the best beaches accessible by foot or ATV;
Mylopotas Beach
Mylopotas Beach
The most popular beach in Ios in terms of accessibility, beauty, and comfort. It’s a 20-minute walk from the Chora or a short drive or bus ride. It has rows of restaurants, cafes, lounge chairs, and shops.
Maganari Beach
Taking the bus to Maganari from the town center is a MUST. Maganari is considered to be the most beautiful beach in Ios. Here you’ll enjoy a calmer beach and glistening waters.
Kolitsani Beach
Perhaps a beach for the more…adventurous! Kolitsani is an optional nude beach located halfway between the Chora and Maganari Beach.
Where to Eat Dinner
Mills bread boardMills – greek salad local cheese
Mills
Mills is a family-owned traditional greek tavern located at the top of the Chora, right next to the windmills. This was my favorite restaurant by far in Ios.
Nest
Another fantastic Greek traditional tavern is located in the center of the Chora.
Katogi
Katogi is a trendy tapas restaurant in the center of the Chora. The space is small and popular, so make a reservation.
Best Brunch Spots
Nutelleria
Nutelleria
This is a great cheap and quick grab-and-go brunch when you’re eager to start your day!
Cantina Del Mar
This was my favorite sit-down brunch spot. The food and portions were fantastic and it has a beautiful view of Mylopots beach.
Harmony
Harmony sits on the opposite side of Mylopotas. It’s the perfect spot to get an acai bowl and even take part in their yoga on certain weekdays.
Nightlife
ClickKafeneio
Best Cocktails
-Click Cocktail Bar
-Valsamo
-Astra
Live Music
-Kafeneio
Bars & Clubs
-Flames
-The Slammer
-Sweet Irish Dream
-Fun Pub (karaoke)
Best Things to Do in Ios Greece
Ios may be a small island, however, there is loads to do! Here are the top things to do on Ios Island, Greece.
1. Maganari Beach
Taking a trip to Maganari is one of the top things to do on the island. The best way to get to Maganari is to take the public bus right outside the Chora in the town center. It’s 7.50 euros roundtrip and departs from noon and returns at 5 pm. Maganari is a must-see!
2. Rent ATVs and explore the island
Renting a car or ATV for a day is the perfect way to see what the whole island has to offer.
3. Book a boat tour
If you’re itching to see some of Ios’s most remote beaches, book an Ios boat tour.
4. Visit Homer’s Tomb
Located in the northern part of Ios near the beach of Plakotos, visit the tomb of one of the greatest poets of all time.
5. Explore the Chora.. day and night!
Wander through the stunning quiet streets of the Chora during the day (and take some photos!) At night experience the village when it really comes to life. Be sure to go bar hopping at the many bars the town has to offer.
6. Odysseus Elythis Theater
Experience the historic open-air theater of Ios.
7. Watch the Sunset at Ios Sunset Club
Ios Sunset Club is a centrally located and affordable cocktail club to watch the incredible sunsets in Ios.
8. Spend an evening at Pathos Club
Have an evening at the most impressive cocktail clubs in Ios. Be sure to stay for the sunset!
9. Relax at Mylopotas Beach
A beach where you can spend the whole day lounging around drinking fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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