Hi traveler!

During our last chat, 47% of you responded that the part that excites you the most about Greece is the beaches (can’t blame you!)

But for now, because all roads (and flights) eventually lead to Athens, I want you to know that the city has a lot to offer… even more if you know where to look. 👀

Which is why I want you to stay tuned for a little guide I’m putting together about my favorite things to do in Athens for FREE. It’s already in the works and I’ll be sharing it with you next week!

One of my favorite things about Greece is that it still retains that non-gentrified, local vibe, and while heavy tourism around the islands and the capital is inevitable, Athens keeps its charming pockets of authenticity intact.

From secret courtyards to tiny tavernas tucked away in winding alleys, I’m eager to show you how to experience the heart of Athens without spending a single euro.

Here’s what we’ll get into today:

• Ancient theatre dates you SHOULDN’T miss!

• My no-go-tos for Athens.

Your Local in Greece,

— Efi

Summer Dates For Must-Attend Theatrical Plays in Athens and Epidaurus

Take a deep breath in.

You're seated under a vast summer sky, on the time-worn marble of the Herodeon, right at the foot of the majestic Parthenon. The air, warm and filled with the faint scent of Mediterranean blooms, vibrates with the opening notes of a grand opera…

Unfortunately I’m no writer… but believe me when I tell you that seeing a performance in these ancient theaters is nothing short of spine-tingling.

Just the thought of being in the very spot where actual legends once captivated ancient audiences is enough to give me the chills.

If you’re coming to Athens this is definitely one of the musts I recommend you splurge on as many times as it takes to feed your soul. Get your tickets quick before they sell out!

My Personal No-Go’s For Your Stay in Athens

Last week I celebrated my 50th birthday… and besides a fleeting crisis about whether I’ve drunk enough fine wines or seen enough sunsets by this age, something clicked about how travel tastes mature.

Like a fine wine, our travel preferences become fuller and more distinct. 

While the thrill of spontaneous, unplanned adventures had its charm in my younger days, these days I value comfort and safety a bit more in my travels.

So, as a birthday gift from me to you, here’s my personal list of 'don’ts' for your stay in Athens—things that will save you time, hassle, and ensure a smoother experience:

👉 Don’t grab a taxi from the airport. Options like pre-booked shuttles or the metro offer safer and often cheaper alternatives.

👉 Don’t stay in Viktoria or Omonoia if you can avoid it. While summer nights are perfect for strolling, these areas can feel a bit edgy and might compromise your safety.

👉 Don’t be shy to say no—whether it’s to a pushy vendor or an unwanted offer.

👉 Don’t rely solely on your credit card. Always have some cash on hand; not everywhere in Athens accepts cards.

👉 Don’t visit the Acropolis before the Acropolis Museum. The context provided by the museum will enrich your visit to the ruins.

👉 Don’t settle for just any gyro. Many places jack up prices without raising quality. Ask a local to point you to the best spots.

👉 Don’t plan a shopping spree around August 15. It’s a major national holiday, and many shops will be closed as locals head home or to visit relatives.

👉 Don’t just depend on public transport. Driving in Athens might be daunting, but it’s worth it for the freedom to explore more authentically.

👉 Don’t limit yourself to the major tourist sites. Athens has much more to offer, from hidden gems to local favorites.

If you have any questions or just want to chat about your visit to Athens, I’m always available for a free consultation.

Greek Break!

This week, let’s slow things down with a classic Greek saying that’s close to our hearts: "Όποιος βιάζεται σκοντάφτει" (Opoios viazete skontafti), which translates to "Whoever goes fast, stumbles."

This proverb is a reminder that rushing through tasks often leads to mistakes, and sometimes, the best approach is to take your time to get things right.

So with this timeless advice, I ask: Why rush in a land where time takes its own sweet time? If you blitz through Athens or speed-date Santorini, you'll skip the soul of Greece. You'd miss the intricate details of the architecture, the subtle flavors of a lovingly cooked meal, or the serene moments that come from watching a sunset over the Aegean Sea.

Next time you’re in Greece, remember to take your sweet time.

That’s it from me this time!

I’ll be back next week with your copy of the best things to do in Athens for FREE. But until then, don’t forget to let me know what you want to see more of in these emails.

I’m all ears!

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