Greece 4…. Athens…. Islands….

 

I have already written a blog on Greece a memorable trip with my mother in 2003 and my visit to Santorini. This time, I went on a leisurely trip with my siblings Partha and Nirmala. Our trip to Greece began in the heart of ancient civilization—Athens. A city where the past and present coexist effortlessly, Athens welcomed us with a warm Mediterranean breeze and a skyline punctuated by the timeless silhouette of the Acropolis. It was nice to stay in the same Athens Hilton.

Athens – A Journey Through Time

Exploring Athens felt like walking through a living museum. We started our journey at the iconic Acropolis, climbing the rocky hill under the golden morning sun to marvel at the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. It’s a surreal feeling, standing amidst structures that have watched over the city for over two millennia. Acropolis was under reconstruction.                

A visit to the Acropolis Museum gave us a deeper appreciation of the artifacts and stories behind the ruins. From there, we strolled through Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens, where narrow streets are lined with pastel-colored houses, quaint shops, and inviting tavernas. For lunch, we found a charming taverna tucked into the Plaka district. Greece offered variety of Vegetarian menu for us.  In the evenings, Athens transformed. The Monastiraki and Psiri districts came alive with music, bustling squares, and rooftop bars. We had dinner at Athens Hilton with a view of the Acropolis lit up under the stars—a memory that will stay with us forever.                                                                             

The Cruise: Hydra, Poros & Aegina – Island Escapade

After soaking in the culture and history of Athens, it was time to embrace the Aegean Sea. We boarded a one-day cruise to the Saronic Islands—a perfect blend of leisure, charm, and scenic beauty.

Hydra – Car-Free Serenity

Our first stop was Hydra, a picturesque island where cars are banned and donkeys are the main mode of transport. The harbor, lined with stone mansions and cozy cafes, was a postcard come to life. We wandered through narrow alleyways, shopped for handmade jewelry and crafts, and paused for coffee with a view of the deep-blue waters. The island’s tranquility and old-world charm were incredibly refreshing.

Poros – A Touch of Green

Next, we cruised to Poros, a lush island known for its pine forests and neoclassical architecture. Though smaller, Poros had a unique elegance. We took a walk up to the Clock Tower, the island’s symbol, and were rewarded with panoramic views of the port and the surrounding hills. There was time to dip our toes in the sea and relax before heading back to the boat.

Aegina – Pistachios and Ancient Temples

Our final stop was Aegina, famous for its pistachios and rich history. We sampled locally roasted pistachios and even tried pistachio ice cream—absolutely divine. For history lovers, Aegina doesn’t disappoint. We visited the Temple of Aphaia, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece, nestled on a hill overlooking the sea.

Before returning to Athens, we had cool fresh orange juice on the deck, basking in the golden hour light. The cruise was more than just a day trip; it was a peaceful counterpoint to the buzz of the city, and a chance to see another side of Greek life.

Athens gave us a powerful sense of history and culture, while the cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina offered relaxation, beauty, and charm. Together, they made the perfect Greek getaway—one that blended myth and reality, the old and the new, and left us with stories to tell for years to come.

 

                            

                                           PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.