Honeymoon in Athens, Greece: The Complete Guide for Lovers of the Greek Capital

For those embarking on a honeymoon, Athens presents a canvas of experiences. From the awe-inspiring sights of the Parthenon and Acropolis to the lively atmosphere of its nightclubs and luxury hotels, the city promises a memorable escape. It’s a treasure trove of art, literature, and culture, making every visit an exploration of the roots of Western civilization.

Ready to explore this captivating capital? Our Complete Athens Honeymoon Guide is here to make your honeymoon trip to Greece even more memorable. Let Athens be more than just a stopover; let it be the highlight of your love story.

Why choose Athens for your honeymoon?

Choosing Athens for your honeymoon is a decision you won’t regret. It’s a place that caters to every couple’s unique tastes and interests. Here’s why Athens should be at the top of your list:

Firstly, boredom is a word you’ll forget in Athens. The city is alive from sunrise to sunset, offering endless cultural and recreational activities. Imagine starting your day with ancient ruins and ending it with a romantic dinner in a cozy taverna.

Athens is a treasure trove of history, home to world-renowned archaeological sites like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. It’s a chance to walk hand in hand through the echoes of time.

Then there’s the Athens Riviera, a perfect blend of city life and beach relaxation. Imagine lounging on beautiful beaches just a short drive from the bustling city center, ideal for a leisurely day by the sea.

Cultural enrichment is around every corner, from awe-inspiring museums to vibrant art galleries. Athens invites you to immerse yourself in the depth of Greek culture.

Food lovers, rejoice! Athens is a culinary paradise, offering everything from gourmet dining to traditional Greek meals. It’s an opportunity to savor the flavors that make Greek cuisine renowned worldwide.

Athens also serves as a gateway to the rest of Greece. Whether it’s a cruise, island-hopping, or a road trip, the capital’s excellent connections make it easy to explore the beauty of Greece further.

Lastly, choosing Athens means creating a honeymoon story that’s uniquely yours. It’s about stepping off the beaten path and experiencing something truly special together.

In essence, Athens offers the perfect backdrop for a honeymoon filled with adventure, romance, and discovery.

When to travel to Athens for your honeymoon?

An Athens honeymoon is a great idea any time of the year, but for the best experience, consider visiting between April to June or September to October. During these months, the weather is just right – not too hot, not too cold – and there are fewer tourists around.

July and August can get pretty crowded and extremely hot. Plus, Greece, including Athens, has faced forest fires in the summer recently.

So, if you’re flexible with your dates, traveling outside the peak season is a win-win for you and the city’s residents!

Also read: When is the best time to visit Greece

Optimal duration in Athens for your honeymoon

How long you spend on an Athens honeymoon can vary, based on how much time you’ve got, your budget, and what you want from the trip.

With a 3-night stay, you get two full days to hit up all the main spots in the city. If you can stay longer, you’ll have the chance to check out some of the less touristy areas and enjoy the Athens Riviera too.

Top Athens neighborhoods to stay

When planning a honeymoon in Athens, the choice of where to stay is as important as what to do. Let’s move beyond hotels for a moment and focus on the character of different neighborhoods!

Plaka, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, offers a charming village ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for first-timers, where you can wake up to Acropolis views, wander through bougainvillea-draped lanes, and enjoy breakfast in cozy cafes. Anafiotika, within Plaka, feels like a slice of the Cyclades.

For a vibrant mix of old and new, head to Monastiraki. It’s perfect for those who love eclectic flea markets and vintage treasures, all with a stunning backdrop of the Acropolis.

Kolonaki is the epitome of upscale, with its luxury boutiques, rooftop bars, and stylish cafes, surrounded by top-notch honeymoon accommodations. Psiri offers a bohemian atmosphere, known for its lively street art, music scenes, and nightlife.

The City Center buzzes with activity, from shopping and dining to cultural landmarks, capturing the essence of contemporary Athens.

Syntagma, the political heart of Athens, is famous for its grand hotels, significant sites, and the iconic Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for something more local? Makriyanni, Koukaki, and Thiseio are great for experiencing everyday Athenian life. Near the University of Athens, Akadimia buzzes with intellectual energy, while Exarchia is known for its spirited, rebellious vibe.

For those dreaming of a seaside escape, the Athens Riviera offers coastal hotels with the bonus of city access.

Each neighborhood in Athens has its unique flavor, promising a memorable honeymoon tailored to every couple’s taste.

The Best Athens Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts

Athens, a popular choice for many vacationers and honeymooners, boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure. This means you’ll find a wide array of options for your stay, whether you’re looking for a cozy honeymoon villa or the perfect neighborhood to call home for a while.

Our tip? Consider staying somewhere central. This way, you’re just a short walk away from all the major sights Athens has to offer.

If you’re dreaming of a more tranquil getaway, away from the city’s buzz, the Athens Riviera might just be your ideal pick, offering peace and a touch of exclusivity.

We’ve also curated a list of romantic hotels in Athens, carefully selected to satisfy even the most discerning travelers.

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel

The best use for those Bonvoy points? Check into the Hotel Grande Bretagne. This five-star gem from 1874 combines classic elegance with today’s comforts. Many rooms and suites offer views of the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, or the original Olympic Stadium.

King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel

For an enduring honeymoon, King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Athens, stands out as a top choice. Nestled in the heart of Athens, its prime location offers couples easy access to the city’s main attractions. The hotel dazzles with elegant decor and rooms that boast breathtaking views, including some that look directly at the Acropolis. The Tudor Restaurant and the rooftop dining offer culinary delights with stunning vistas, perfect for romantic meals. The diverse breakfast spread caters to all tastes, featuring both Greek and international options praised for their quality.

The Modernist Athens

A top favorite for a boutique Athens honeymoon stay, this spot in Kolonaki shines with its sleek, minimalist design. Enjoy the charming rooftop terrace, admire local art throughout, and appreciate their commitment to sustainability.

The Dolli

Check out this beautiful choice housed in a 1925 neoclassical building. It’s just a short walk from everything Psyri and Plaka have to offer. One of our new favorite spots for an Athens honeymoon.

AthensWas Design Hotel

Find modern luxury right at the Acropolis’s base on Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. Enjoy sleek views and rooms at one of the top Athens honeymoon spots.

Monument Hotel

Discover a fresh boutique gem nestled in Plaka and Monastiraki, where Athenian history meets modern comfort. Steps away from ancient ruins, it boasts a bright and welcoming vibe.

Academias Hotel, Autograph Collection

Discover elegance at this boutique hotel close to Syntagma Square, featuring a rooftop restaurant, NYX, where you can enjoy Japanese dishes just moments away from the city’s key attractions.

Perianth Hotel

Check out this stylish boutique hotel right in the middle of Psyri. It’s all about modernist architecture and cool bars, perfect for those who love the nightlife.

Gatsby Athens

Dive into the ’20s flair mixed with modern comforts, nestled between Kolonaki and Plaka. With its jazz-inspired decor and a hidden speakeasy bar, this spot is a top pick for an Athens honeymoon.

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel

Ideal for a beachside Athens honeymoon, this spot offers Greek luxury with private beaches, several pools, and a top-notch spa in Vouliagmeni along the Athens Riviera.

Electra Metropolis

For couples planning their honeymoon, Electra Metropolis in Athens promises a 5-star experience right at the heart of the city, just steps from Syntagma Square. With its blend of professional service, a range of amenities, and luxurious comfort, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.

Adding to the allure is the hotel’s top-notch spa, offering treatments that promise relaxation and rejuvenation. And for those magical honeymoon evenings, the Roof Garden provides breathtaking views of the Acropolis and Athens skyline, making it an ideal spot for a nightcap or snack. Electra Metropolis stands out as a prime choice for a remarkable honeymoon stay in Athens.

Andronis Athens

Your honeymoon is a chapter you’ll cherish forever. That’s why we’re dedicated to crafting an extraordinary experience with Andronis luxury in Athens. Be spoiled with their tailored services designed to fulfill your every wish. Picture yourselves enjoying a leisurely breakfast in bed, sharing a romantic candlelit dinner, and delighting in a range of special honeymoon treats.

What to do on your Athens Honeymoon

Athens is a hotspot for romance, making it a go-to destination for Valentine’s Day or a dreamy honeymoon in Greece. To make the most of your visit, we’ve rounded up the must-do activities for lovebirds. Add these to your honeymoon itinerary and, once you’ve checked off these essentials, you’ll have all the time to enjoy with your partner, just as you’ve always imagined.

Tour the Acropolis

The Acropolis stands as Athens’ crowning glory, a testament to ancient Greek brilliance in architecture, culture, and art. Scaling this historic rock takes you past marvels like the Propylaia gateway, the Temple of Athena Nike, the cultural beacon Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the iconic Parthenon, and the Erechtheion with its Caryatid statues. Its beauty and deep history are captivating. A sunset visit might even offer the chance to witness a magical proposal scene, making it a romantic highlight.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Acropolis Museum awaits, offering a deep dive into the treasures unearthed from the Acropolis. It brings ancient Greek daily life to life through its artifacts, making your visit both enlightening and enjoyable. A trip here effortlessly enriches your Athens honeymoon adventure.

Read more about the the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum

Discover Plaka neighborhood in the heart of Athens

Strolling through Athens with your partner is among the most romantic experiences in Greece, especially in the historic neighborhood of Plaka, often hailed as the “district of the gods.” This area, with its enchanting Anafiotika section that mirrors the charm of a Cycladic Island, draws lovers from around the globe.

As you meander through Plaka’s alleys, you’ll be enveloped by a serene ambiance. Admire quaint homes adorned with blooming balconies and grand, colorful doors.

A notable stop is on Tholou Street, where you’ll find the building that hosted the first University of Athens, now a fascinating museum. After exploring, ‘Giasemi’ cafe in Anafiotika offers the perfect break with a delightful array of treats to enjoy alongside your coffee. Choose to sit outdoors, on quaint steps or a terrace, soaking in splendid views of Athens. For those who adore romantic city adventures, consider trading an Athens honeymoon for one in Venice.

Go on a Boat Cruise around the Athenian Riviera

Exploring the sparkling Aegean Sea and the beautiful Greek Islands by boat is an unmatched experience. You could go for Viator’s full-day cruise, visiting Agistri, Moni, and Aegina, complete with lunch and drinks. Or, for a more relaxed evening, Yachthop’s sunset cruise offers wine and cocktails. There’s also GetYourGuide’s Saronic Islands Day Cruise, giving you the chance to explore Poros and Hydra at your leisure.

Taste Greek food like the famous souvlaki

Indulging in Greek cuisine is always a great choice, but your honeymoon in Athens wouldn’t be complete without diving into the local street food scene. Souvlaki, the undisputed champion of Greek street food, is a must-try, available in countless variations throughout the city.

Finding a spot that doesn’t serve up a delicious souvlaki is nearly impossible. Yet, some of our top picks for souvlaki joints are ‘Kostas’ and ‘Hoocut’ in Agias Irinis Square, along with ‘Elvis’ in Pagkrati. Pick your preferred meat and customize your pita to your heart’s content. Trying souvlaki promises to be a meaningful culinary adventure.

Take a street-walking food tour

If cooking isn’t your thing, dive into Athens’ culinary scene with a street food tour led by some of the city’s top food experts!

Start your adventure in Omonia with some Greek yogurt, traditional pastries, and a robust Greek coffee.

Then, wander through the Varvakios food market. Discover where to snag the finest Cretan cheese, select meats, olive oil, olives, and Greek wine from quaint, historic delis.

For food-loving couples, a street food tour is a must-do during your Athens honeymoon.

Join a Greek cooking class

Walk into the essence of Athens at Varvakios Agora, the city’s vibrant main market. Why not spend some time mastering the art of traditional Greek cooking?

Learn to whip up everything from tzatziki to dolmadakia, creating the perfect souvenir to relive your honeymoon bliss back home. Add a cooking class to your must-do list for an Athens honeymoon!

Experience a Greek wine-tasting

Greek wines deserve more praise! Consider booking a wine tasting to discover local gems. Taste unique varieties like Roditis, Limnio, and Muscat, guided by an expert sommelier.

Perfect for both wine aficionados and those who enjoy a casual glass, it’s an enchanting way to spend an evening and a top pick for an Athens honeymoon.

Uncover Athens’ ancient sites

While the Acropolis often gets all the attention, Athens is home to many other fascinating ancient sites. Check out the Temple of Olympian Zeus or wander through the Ancient Agora for a less crowded experience.

Consider a day trip to Cape Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon. Or, go a bit further to Delphi or the Meteora monasteries. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are worth the trip from Athens.

Explore Athens’ historic museums

Athens’ museums are gateways to exploring Greece’s rich cultural heritage, from the impressive exhibits at the Acropolis Museum to the serene garden café of the National Archaeological Museum.

Dive into the Byzantine & Christian Museum for spiritual artistry, or explore ancient societies at the Museum of Cycladic Art. Get a unique insight into the history of currency at the Numismatic Museum.

For a comprehensive journey through Greek history, the Benaki Museum complex is a must-visit on your Athens honeymoon, offering a glimpse from ancient times to the mid-20th century. Don’t miss the intriguing Museum of Islamic Art, also part of the Benaki network.

Visit Athens’ contemporary museums and galleries

If you’re into modern art, Athens has plenty to offer. Don’t miss the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation, where you can admire works by Picasso and Monet.

Looking for a bit of fun? The Museum of Illusions is a great spot to challenge your senses with its interactive exhibits!

Go on a street art tour

Athens isn’t just about ancient art; it’s also a hub for vibrant street art. Taking a tour through neighborhoods like Psyri and Exarchia, where modern Greek artists have turned the streets into their canvas, is a top pick for an Athens honeymoon. These areas are bursting with color and thought-provoking political messages, providing a unique insight into contemporary Greek culture.

Go to an outdoor movie theater

Summer in Athens isn’t complete without a visit to one of its many open-air cinemas, a tradition with around 50 spots across the city.

Consider starting with the city’s oldest, Cine Aegli. Also, take a look at what’s playing at Cine Dexameni and Cine Thision for a genuine Athens honeymoon night out!

Catch the sunset

Wrapping up your day by watching the sunset at a special spot in Athens is something to include in your honeymoon plans.

Consider the rooftop bars overlooking the Acropolis or take a sunset hike up Mount Lycabettus. Other great viewpoints include Areopagus, Filopappou Hill, and even the Acropolis. For a different scene, head to Flisvos Marina for seafront views and dine at one of the charming restaurants by the water.

An Athens sunset is truly monumental!

Shop at boutiques

Athens is full of unique finds. Instead of the usual souvenirs, opt for local treasures like olive oil, Greek coffee sets, or handcrafted jewelry.

Check out The Naxos Apothecary for exquisite skincare, body care, and perfumes. Korres Cosmetics is a must-visit for top-notch makeup.

Don’t miss Daphnis & Chloe for traditional herbs perfect for cooking. Ancient Greek Sandals offers stunning footwear, while Kalliope is the go-to for affordable, beautiful jewelry.

For shopping enthusiasts or those who enjoy window shopping, Monastiraki’s shops, filled with antiques and interesting storefronts, are a delight!

Visit Hydra Island for a day

Don’t just stick to the mainland when you’re in Athens! It’s your ticket to the dreamy Greek islands in the Saronic Gulf.

Catch a ferry to places like Hydra for a day. You’ll find clear waters, charming villages, and a peaceful break from city life.

Taking a quick ferry for some island exploration is one of our top picks for an Athens honeymoon!

Visit Delphi for a day

Just a couple of hours northwest of Athens, you’ll find Delphi, a must-visit on any honeymoon itinerary. This ancient sanctuary, dedicated to Apollo, was known as the ‘center of the world’ in ancient times. Today, it’s a cherished UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfect day trip from Athens.

Top choices to eat in Athens

Exploring the dining and drinking scene is a highlight of any Athens honeymoon, with its charming tavernas, Michelin-recommended eateries, trendy bars, and cozy cafes.

For a great Greek meal, we love Lithos in Psiri. It might be popular with tourists, but the food is genuinely fantastic.

Vegetarians should check out Feyrouz, while Vezené puts a modern spin on Greek classics. Nolan offers an intriguing mix of Japanese and Greek cuisine. Ama Lachei delivers traditional recipes with a modern flair, and Simul Gastronomic Situ excels with its farm-to-table philosophy.

Don’t miss Mavros Gatos for meat dishes, and Café Avissinia for a taste of old Athens, complete with live music. For a special dining experience, Delta at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, boasting two Michelin stars, is a must-visit.

For drinks, The Clumsies offers award-winning cocktails in a relaxed setting, while Baba au Rum will whisk you away to a tropical paradise with its vibes.

These spots are just a few favorites for those celebrating love in Athens.

What to pack for your Athens Honeymoon

Remember to bring comfy clothes and walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring a lot on foot. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle – the tap water in Greece is drinkable, and it’ll be a lifesaver during those hill climbs.

Getting around Athens

Athens is easy to get around on foot and boasts a great public transport network. If you’re pressed for time, a hop-on hop-off bus tour is a good way to catch all the major sights. For faster journeys, the Metro is your best bet, and taxis won’t break the bank either.

How expensive is Athens

Athens caters to all budgets, offering both luxurious and affordable experiences. Compared to other European capitals, it’s generally more affordable, making it a great value destination for hotels, dining, and shopping.

Combining Athens with more honeymoon destinations in Greece

Many couples choose to extend their Athens honeymoon with visits to other European countries or nearby destinations. From exploring neighboring countries like Croatia and Cyprus to jetting off to Middle Eastern gems like Dubai, the options for a multi-destination honeymoon are endless. Cruising the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean is another popular choice for a notable honeymoon experience.

In conclusion, an Athens honeymoon offers a perfect blend of ancient charm, modern luxury, and romantic experiences. From exploring historical sites like the Acropolis to indulging in delicious Greek cuisine and enjoying breathtaking sunsets, Athens has something for every couple. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Athens is sure to provide noteworthy moments for your honeymoon. And with easy access to nearby islands and European destinations, the possibilities for extending your honeymoon are endless.