Vivian was a fantastic host, as was Marialena who helped with some of the practicalities closer to the stay. Firstly, I booked this trip initially for May 2020, and I’m writing this in July 2021… we all know why! This is the third time rebooking; Vivian let me change everything twice, including moving to a different apartment (bigger) in the same building for the same price.
Check in was flexible and very easy, and we had a great base to explore the city. It’s slightly ‘out of town’, but it’s a 15 minute walk to Monistraki and closer to some great bars. The air con was very needed too, although the actual bedroom part took a little longer to cool down. We had all the amenities we needed - plugs, hairdryers, umbrellas, radiators, an iron and ironing board which worked perfectly, and a lovely coffee machine. Also much appreciated was a very lovely bed, which we collapsed into at the end of each night. Prosecco in front of that gorgeous view at sunset was a bonus. The flat locked up securely which was good for peace of mind.
Marialena helped us arrange a driver from the airport and told us how to find a cheap taxi to a restaurant we wanted to go to out of town. She also sent several recommendations of free walking tours and the like, which were much appreciated.
In terms of things to do: we went to Warehouse bar on the first night (not CO2), which was only ten minutes away and did great cocktails. On day two, we did the Acropolis (get up early!), the Acropolis museum, and some of the other ancient sites, before getting some vegan souvlaki and heading to The Clumsies. On Saturday we explored the National Gardens, did some shopping, and went to Hytra, which was very special. On Sunday we did loads - hiked up to the big monument, did a great food tour we booked on AirBnB, went to the National Archeological Museum and hiked up to Lycabettus Hill for sunset - a must do, before finishing with a drink at Baba au Rum. Not to forget a trip to the flea market - there’s a good rooftop bar nestled in it! Vivian’s flat was a perfect base for all of this and more, and she was always two seconds away for questions.
Thank you for being a very large part of this trip living up to expectations!