Athens was the first stop in our visit to Greece – where, having traveled separately, Jeanne and I planned to meet after her yoga retreat in southern Italy.
Because our visit was short, really only a single day, we’d booked a 2hr group tour of the Acropolis – bright and early (8am) to beat the (anticipated) crowds. From our recent European travels, we learned the small group (or individual tours) available through GetYourGuide or WithLocals provide large amounts of “information” in a short period of time.
The Parthenon is by far, the most recognizable structure of the Athens Acropolis (the rock outcrop above Athens) and is stunning, both in terms of its shear size, and its prominence overlooking the city itself.
Our guide was well versed in Greek mythology (which we’re not) – giving us an almost head-spinning amount of background and mythos of the gods, goddesses, and the area which they now call home.
Finishing up our Acropolis tour, we set out to wander some of the neighborhoods of Athens, heading northward from the Pantheon toward Monastiraki neighborhood. The way took us down some “alleys”, where we stopped at a cute little taverna for a quick bite to eat and some espresso frodda (whipped espresso over ice!).
After that respite, we continued, passing the Roman Agora and Hadrian’s Library on our way to the square, not surprisingly already teaming with people. Can’t imagine what that’s like in the height of tourist season!
Wandering through some side streets, definitely quickly past the souvenir shops (mainly things from china!), we headed toward the Plaka neighborhood via Adrianou Street, one of the popular shopping streets, mostly wandering to enjoy the wares and the weather, which was by noon-ish, bright sunshine and low-70’s.
Circling back around the Acropolis, we headed back toward our apartment, continuing to enjoy the area and the majesty of the moment.
It was a short Athens visit, really just a single, full day – so after a meal at a local (greek) seafood place and a good night’s rest, we were off.
While some choose to fly to Kefalonia, due to the nature of our remaining itinerary, we picked up our rental car, and headed west from Athens along the northern coast of the peninsula, stopping on our way at the Cornith Canal, an amazing structure that cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese peninsula from the Greek mainland. How they built this in the mid-1800’s seems to boggle the mind!
Heading further west, we stopped for a quick bite at a small village on the coast – Διακοπτό (Diakopto). There didn’t seem to be much there, though we found a cute taverna for some outdoor dining.
Heading further west, we arrived at the Kyllini ferry terminal, where we discovered there were two ferries – different destinations, departing at roughly the same time – creating a bit of chaos and a reminder that not all things run smoothly or are “under control”.
Two ferries, two groupings of cars, little/no guidance as to which line went to which ferry. Almost comical to see cars moving between lines multiple times (ourselves included!). It was clear though, that from the vessels, they take their “ferrying” seriously!
All was well and we enjoyed the trip to Kefalonia on what seemed more like a cruise ship in its size and opulence than a ferry.
Ride along with us as we arrive In Poros, Kefalonia, and explore the island.
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