5 Days in Athens & Sifnos

Arrive in Athens on Norse Atlantic Airways Premium, a direct flight from Los Angeles, or your air carrier of choice. The Premium cabin of this low-cost airline offers wide recliner seats, upgraded dining, and extra legroom, which make the long-haul flight comfortable. Transfer by car to Hotel Grande Bretagne, an Athens landmark with old-world grandeur, rooftop views of the Acropolis, and personalized butler service if you’re upgraded to a suite (I'll try my best!).

Ease into the evening with cocktails at The Clumsies, one of the world’s top bars, known for its inventive drinks and playful atmosphere. Dinner is at the GB Roof Garden, where Mediterranean flavors come with postcard views of the Acropolis lit up at night.

Take your time in the morning before enjoying breakfast at the hotel. Walk to Syntagma Square to watch the ceremonial changing of the guard. For lunch, head to Neoklassiko, famous for its gyros and dolmades. The surrounding neighborhood is full of small churches and charming streets, perfect for a post-lunch wander.

Stop for a drink at Bless Me Father, a sleek bar with a modern Greek feel, before taking a cab to the Museum of Cycladic Art. Its exhibits highlight the ancient Cycladic civilization with beautiful, minimalist artifacts. Then, join a private Acropolis tour, starting at the Acropolis Museum before heading up the hill for a deep dive into history.

Unwind afterward at Hammam Baths for a traditional gommage treatment—steam, exfoliation, and warm water leave you deeply relaxed. Dinner is in Plaka at Aerides, with dishes like saganaki and shrimps with ouzo, fennel, and bisque sauce. End the night with a quiet drink back at the hotel.

Take an Uber to Piraeus and board a SeaJets ferry to Sifnos. Upgrade to Club seats for extra space, your own bar and café, and access to Moët, Aperol spritzes, pastries, and snacks. Bring a light jacket as the air conditioning is no joke.

From Kamares port, hop on the local bus to Apollonia. Pay the fare in cash during the ride—about €2 per person. Buses are air-conditioned and comfortable. Explore Apollonia’s winding streets, lined with whitewashed houses, pottery shops, and jewelry boutiques.

Next, bus to Platys Gialos for your reservation at Lost Bay. Settle into a waterfront lounger, order cocktails and a burger (if you need a little something different), and enjoy a calm, wave-free bay set to mellow beats of the beach club. When you’re ready to head back, have Lost Bay call a taxi to Kamares. Pick up pastries at a bakery before boarding the ferry back to Athens. End the night at A for Athens' vibey rooftop bar overlooking Monastiraki square.

Enjoy breakfast poolside before heading to the Psyri neighborhood. On your way, browse the Ember + the Goober store for stylish men’s and women’s clothing, then stop at Aumorfia for art and home goods.

For lunch, try Volvi Souvlaki and order the off-menu pork and beef mix. Continue your walk with ice cream from Etero, all made by hand and in-house. Hunt for vintage treasures at Seven Sisters or Bloodie Bee, then check out Monastiraki, the Agora, and Hadrian’s Library.

Pause for an ouzo tasting at Brettos or cross the street for a milkshake and slice of galatopita (traditional milk cake). After a break at the hotel, explore Kolonaki’s designer boutiques, indie art spots, and Indigo Atelier. Dinner is at Odori Vermuteria, serving excellent pizza, pasta, and house negronis made with their own vermouth.

Cap the night at Big Bar, the second-oldest gay bar in Athens. It’s small, friendly, and a great place for conversation with locals.

Order lukumades (Greek doughnuts) for breakfast in bed and savor the indulgence. Then, enjoy a final massage at the hotel before your transfer to Athens International Airport. Pick up local spirits, liqueurs, or Korres products at the duty-free shops to enjoy back at home. As you are taking off, wave goodbye to the gorgeous, sandy beaches and settle in for your return flight.