This is my second time in Athens, the first was in 2012 and in my eyes it has changed phenomenally in terms of the bars and cafes that have opened. I hate to use the term ‘hipster’ but I feel it is appropriate.
We only had one day of exploring and in the sweltering heat we used the day to visit the Acropolis museum.
Architecturally it is phenomenal and I took some sneaky photos highlighting the glass floors that showcase the historic remains and the upper floor and its visitors. It is a grand open space that gives a powerful feeling – appropriate to highlight one of the most advanced ancient cultures. The wide open stairs, neutral marble interior and spacious columns evoke grandeur and showcase the exhibits in the best possible way.
The museum is cheap too! €3 euros a pop to visit!
After trying to recall all of the ancient stories of the gods and Athenian culture from classical studies in high school and the brain strain involved delving that far back we retreated to find a bar near our accomodation and found a non pretentious outdoor beer garden called six dogs near the main shopping street. You can check it out at six dogs.gr
It had a locals only feel and we liked it.
Rushing to the Acropolis at 7pm (it closes at 8:30) we managed to get in at the most perfect time of day. The Parthenon was having a facelift but otherwise it was a perfect scene. Especially overlooking the city. We watched the sunset and ventured off the path for a bite to eat in a small taverna in a back alley square on the edge of Gazi.
With more time and more energy I would be very keen to check out the Gazi district for its nightlife and arts scene. Athens has so much to offer night walkers in search of a hole in the wall adventure and a lucrative discovery! Get me back stat!
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