EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: ATHENS

EAT 

When in Athens, there’s one dish that you absolutely cannot miss – souvlaki. This beloved Greek street food consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce. It's simple but so flavorful, and you’ll find it everywhere – from local street vendors to restaurants. Whether you grab it on the go or sit down to enjoy it with friends, souvlaki is as much a part of Athens as its ancient ruins. 

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Athens

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Athens:

• Moussaka: Moussaka is a rich and savory casserole with layers of sautéed eggplant, minced meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce on top. It's absolutely a must-try Greek comfort food! You'll find it as a main course in every traditional taverna, so definitely take a chance to try it during your time abroad.
• Souvlaki: This is the ultimate street food in Athens, and it’s famous for a reason. Souvlaki is a grilled skewer of marinated meat, usually pork or chicken, that is served wrapped in a warm pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions. It's both delicious and budget-friendly, making it the perfect meal to grab on the go.
• Spanakopita: Spanakopita is a savory pie made with flaky phyllo dough and a delicious filling of spinach and feta cheese. You can find it in bakeries all over the city, and it makes a great light lunch or a snack for a busy day exploring Athens. 

DRINK 

Served in tiny cups, Greek coffee is made from finely ground coffee beans that are simmered slowly in a briki pot. The result is a strong, smooth coffee with a foamy layer on top that’s both bitter and bold. It’s usually enjoyed slowly, often with a glass of water and a sweet treat like loukoum (Turkish delight). You’ll find locals sipping their Greek coffee in cafés all over the city, but one of the best spots to try it is at Kafenio, a traditional café where you can take in the relaxed, local vibe and people-watch as you enjoy your coffee. 

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Athens

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Athens:

• Epsa: This is a famous Greek soda brand that has been making soft drinks for over 90 years! It's a nostalgic brand for Greeks and a great way to try a local alternative to a big international brand. The lemonades are particularly popular!
• Souroti: On a hot day in Athens, nothing is more refreshing than a cold bottle of Souroti. This is a very popular brand of natural sparkling mineral water that comes from a spring in northern Greece. Locals often drink it on its own or with a slice of lemon, making it a perfect beverage for cooling down in the hot Mediterranean sun.
• Ouzo: Ouzo is an anise-flavored spirit that is a staple in Greece. It's traditionally served in a tall, narrow glass with a bit of water and ice, which turns the clear liquid a milky white. Remember to sip it slowly! 

EXPLORE 

For a city steeped in history, the Acropolis is Athens' crowning jewel. Perched high above the city, this ancient citadel has stood for more than 2,500 years and is home to some of the most famous ruins in the world, including the Parthenon. As one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, a visit to the Acropolis is like stepping back in time. You can explore the ruins, learn about Greek mythology, and take in breathtaking views of Athens. 

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Athens

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Athens:

• Acropolis: This is the most famous ancient site in the world and the number one thing you must see in Athens. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel on a hill overlooking the city and its home to the stunning Parthenon. You definitely won’t regret climbing to the top, seeing this ancient wonder and exploring the birthplace of modern democracy!
• Ancient Agora and Roman Agora: Ever wonder where ancient Athenians hung out? These were the heart of public life in ancient Athens, where politics, commerce, and philosophy took place. Exploring their ruins gives you a fascinating look into the daily life of ancient Greeks, and they are absoutely a must-see for any history buff.
• Panathenaic Stadium: Made entirely of white marble, this historic stadium is the home of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. However, its full history dates all the way back to ancient times. You can even run on the track for a fun photo op! 

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