- Last Updated: October 22, 2023
- Lande
Uncovered Ancient Wonders in Athens for Kids
For the final stretch of our Greek journey, we took a flight from Naxos to Athens. Arriving just before another heat wave, we embraced the scorching weather and dove into the Athens experience. Two days in Athens seemed just right for us.
Where to stay
During our Athens stay, we opted for the InterContinental Athenaeum Athens, an IHG Hotel. We made the booking through American Express, securing a valuable late check-out benefit. Despite mixed reviews, our experience at the hotel was satisfying. While the decor seemed a bit outdated, the spacious room, excellent service, cleanliness, and essential amenities, like an outdoor pool and a gym, met our needs. Although the location wasn’t ideal, affordable Uber rides, at just 5 euros to the city center, made transportation convenient. The scorching heat made public transportation less appealing, and we weren’t well-versed in the bus system. Additionally, the long lines at every stop, combined with the kids and the intense heat, led us to conclude that Uber was our best bet for getting around Athens.
What to do
Day 1:
After our late afternoon arrival in Athens, we ventured to Monastiraki for a leisurely late lunch and some exploration. The area is teeming with retail shops and souvenir stores. The day was quite hot, and with an early tour scheduled for the next day, we opted for a quick dinner on the move and returned to our hotel.
Day 2:
We had an early tour of the Acropolis, Parthenon and the Acropolis museum, a wise choice to beat the heat and crowds. A guided tour was especially beneficial for the kids, as they could immerse themselves in the mythological tales surrounding the ancient structures. After wrapping up our morning activities, we enjoyed a relaxing lunch and then headed back to the hotel for a refreshing swim.
What to eat
I must admit, the food in Athens was absolutely delightful.
Maiandros Restaurant- Despite its touristy location, this place had glowing Google reviews. We indulged in a mouthwatering meat platter and, perhaps unwisely, enjoyed complimentary shots in the scorching heat.
Brigant- A cozy Italian gem serving fantastic homemade pasta and pizza. The chewy pasta and delectable salads left us thoroughly satisfied.
Tuk Tuk Thai Street Food- While not the most kid-friendly setup with bar stools and small tables, the food was out of this world. The dishes transported us to the streets of Thailand, and we couldn’t resist ordering a variety of items. The kids were particularly pleased, given our recent streak of Greek cuisine.
Helpful Tips- Uncovered Ancient Wonders in Athens for Kids
I highly recommend taking a short flight from Naxos to Athens, which only lasts around 30-40 minutes. Airport check-in is a breeze, and there’s no need to arrive more than 30 minutes before your flight. In contrast, the ferry ride can be a sweltering 4-hour ordeal.
Given the heat, it’s a great idea to book a hotel with a pool. We met a family who didn’t, and they regretted it. After a long day of sightseeing, it’s hard not to reward the kids with a refreshing dip.
It’s also a good plan to save your souvenir shopping for Athens. The city offers numerous shops with more affordable prices than the islands.
Be sure to bring a travel fan that sprays water to keep the kids cool, especially when visiting the Acropolis, as it can get scorching.
Additionally, Uber is an economical and convenient choice for getting around.