A Trip Through Greece: Two Sides of the Country
Jake Griffin
Athens for a living history lesson, then slow down time on the Island of Ikaria
Athens
Go with a checklist of ruins to see, or wander around the city and marvel at what you stumble upon. The old world is never more than a few steps away in this city.
Typical Day in Athens
Pick a neighborhood to stroll through without much plan, enjoy it before the crowds start to arrive. Stop for some freddo
Stop into the Central Varvakios Market, pick up some snacks or knick knacks
Pick an afternoon guided tour: art, food, ancient history, single monument in-depth tour, your opportunities are endless
Hike up Philopappus Hill as the light fades for a stunning sunset view of the Acropolis. Bring your snacks from the market
Walk through the neighborhood of Psirri and pick your dinner spot based on the music around you
Ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class museums compete for your attention at every turn, making the city's greatest challenge deciding where to begin.
Do Athens different than the crowd
Athens is a place where it's easy to fall into the typical tourist to-dos, waiting in lines for a picture with this or that. Of course, check out the Acropolis and eat a gyro (or four), but also try these alternatives as a break from the tourist swarms.
Climb Philipappos Hill for a spectacular sunset, then watch the monuments light up
Visit the first cemetery of Athens, where many famous Greeks found their final resting place
Linger around a corner cafe with a morning freddo, the way the locals take their espresso
Check out the authentic, colorful Central Varvakios Market
Athens - Stays
Minimal
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With views
Luxe
Ikaria
The island that forgot to hurry…
One of Greece's more unique islands, Ikaria offers an escape from the noise of the more visited areas and transports you to a slower world. Get a glimpse as to why this island is a Blue Zone.
Icarus gave the island its name, but the myths and lore don't end there. Dionysus, god of wine, makes his mark on the island too.
Ikaria Activities
You could pack these into one day, or live the slow life and stretch each out into its own day
Full-day relaxation/wellness retreat
Drive around looking for a beach to yourself
Discover the hot springs at Therma
Guided nature walk through the island footpaths, or wander without plan
Learn a Blue Zone secret or two with a cooking class hosted by a local
Why Ikaria over other islands?
If you're seeking authentic Grecian culture over commercialized tourism, Ikaria is the place to go. With stunning, untouched landscapes, thermal hot springs, hikes to ancient churches, and an endless assortment of beaches to choose from, the island has no shortage of activity.
Perhaps the best activity on the island is no activity at all... embrace the slow lifestyle. A popular local phrase is "siga siga" which loosely translates to "take it easy" - and that's just what the islanders here do.
Ikaria - Stays
Natureful
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Tranquil
Resort Style
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Still have some PTO?
Pick one of these add-ons to your itinerary
Hop to another island
Mykonos (for party people)
Santorini (for lovers)
Crete (for culture enthusiasts)
Naxos (for beach hoppers)
Stop in Italy before returning home
Haven't had your fill? Italy is practically next door... Picture yourself in a Roman piazza at golden hour, or tucked into a cliffside village in Positano where the only agenda is finding the best lemon gelato. It's the perfect bookend to your Greek adventure.