Greece with Teens: 8 Days in Athens & Paros

Athens introduces teens to history in a way that feels current and tangible, paired with a modern-feeling creative scene and relaxed café culture. On Paros, the pace shifts to island living, where boat days, beach time, and lively harbor towns create space for independence, movement, and discovery without feeling overwhelming or chaotic.

Athens: 3 days

Athens can be explored in a few different ways: as a two-day stay at the beginning of the trip with one night at the end, or entirely on the outbound portion after time on the islands. Another option is to fly directly to Paros or Santorini on arrival and return through Athens before departure.

Athens

• Where to stay: The Plaka neighborhood

Plaka is an ideal base, with most major sites located within a 20- to 25-minute walk of the Acropolis. Traffic can be heavy, but Uber and licensed yellow taxis are easy to use.

The restaurant options in Plaka are extensive, albeit somewhat touristy, but evening walks through the neighborhood are charming and well worth it. For a more local flavor, head to the Psiri neighborhood for informal cafes and bars that are more authentic and livelier.

• The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis is a must-see, best visited with an early-morning guided tour to avoid crowds and heat while gaining valuable historical context. Plan about four hours total for the Acropolis and museum combined.

The Acropolis Museum is modern and beautifully curated, featuring original artifacts, including the Caryatids from the Erechtheion.

Travel tip: Take a lunch break in Plaka between visits to keep the day manageable.

• The Ancient Agora

Often compared to Rome’s Forum, the Ancient Agora is expansive and atmospheric. Your best bet is to book a guided visit to understand the significance of what you’re seeing.

Travel tip: Visiting both the Acropolis and Agora in one day is possible, but involves a lot of walking. Consider breaking this up into two separate excursions.

Agora Ruins, Athens

• Athens restaurants

  • Dopios: Modern Greek cuisine served tapas-style, ideal for sharing. Fresh ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • GB Roof Garden: A refined rooftop restaurant with exceptional Acropolis views. Higher prices and smaller portions, but memorable for the setting.

  • Daphne’s: A classic Plaka favorite serving traditional Greek dishes in a charming, relaxed setting.

Dopios Restaurant, Athens

Paros: 3–4 days

Paros is the quintessential Greek island experience—laid-back, beautiful, and easy to enjoy. Mid- to late September is an ideal time to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Evenings can be breezy, so layers are recommended.

Day-long boating excursion, Paros

• Getting there

High-speed ferries from Athens take approximately four hours. Allow extra time for port traffic and boarding, which can be crowded regardless of ticket class.

Travel tip: The Aegean can be rough. Motion-sickness medication is recommended, and flexibility is essential in windy conditions.

• Where to stay: Naousa

Naousa is a picturesque harbor town with cobblestone streets, boutiques, cafés, lively bars, and excellent restaurants. A small Venetian fort adds character, and the overall energy is vibrant yet relaxed—ideal for families with teens who enjoy atmosphere without chaos.

• Lefkes Village

This inland medieval village is perfect for a slower morning. Wander narrow cobblestone paths leading to a hilltop church, enjoy coffee in the square, and browse artisan shops and jewelry stores. Many restaurants on the outskirts offer beautiful views and a relaxed setting for wine or lunch.

Lefkes Village, Paros

• Boat day: Antiparos & Despotiko

A full-day boat tour showcases the coastline of Paros, Antiparos, and Despotiko, often including lunch, swimming in turquoise coves, and optional cliff jumping.

Travel tip: Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, and pack a light jacket for wind.

Paros boating excursion

• Paros restaurants

  • Daverona: Elevated Greek cuisine with a modern edge in a stylish setting.

  • Halaris: A dockside seafood restaurant in a fishing village, known for fresh daily catch and local Paros wines.

  • Stilvi: Trendy, design-forward, and social, with a strong bar scene and polished presentation.

  • Safran: Italian-Mediterranean cuisine; reservations essential.

  • Open Garden: Farm-to-table Greek dishes in a serene garden courtyard.

  • Moraitis Estate Winery: An easy walk from Naousa, offering tastings and tours of locally produced wines.

Daverona Restaurant, Paros

Moraitis Winery, Paros