A Budget Stopover in Athens

Stopover in Athens – A Budget Day Trip With flights for under $30 each way on a budget airline, a stopover in Athens was too good to resist. Having already visited the city’s main attractions on previous trips, this time the plan was to explore a different side of Athens. After landing, the X95 bus ($13) offered a straightforward ride into the city centre. First stop was the Athens National Garden—a surprisingly tranquil and lush oasis right in the heart of the city. Much more beautiful than expected, it was the perfect place to relax and ease into the day. After picking up some snacks and sandwiches (appropriately €10) from a convenience store, I walked to Philopappos Hill. The views from the top were nothing short of spectacular, with the Acropolis and Athens sprawling out in every direction. It made for a perfect picnic spot. Later in the afternoon, I wandered through some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, getting pleasantly lost among narrow streets and intriguing little shops. A highlight was stumbling upon a fantastic local coffee shop where I was the only foreigner. The coffee was excellent, and the simple but delicious local food cost less than $20. As the sun began to set, I made my way back to the airport for my onward flight feeling content with a day that blended natural beauty, authentic experiences, and a fresh perspective on a city I thought I already knew. #100usdchallenge #budgetcitybreak #athens #greece