My Athens, Part III: A Romantic Farewell

Hey there friends!

Here comes my third suggested itinerary—a way to see Athens through the eyes of someone who calls it home.

After two long, beautiful walks through the heart of Athens (check out my previous posts!), I still couldn’t get enough of the city I grew up in. Even though I spent part of my vacation on the Greek islands—soaking in the crystal-clear sea, breathing the pure Mediterranean air, and indulging in irresistible local flavors—Athens kept calling me back. Like a siren whispering, “One last night… until we meet again.”

This time, I wasn’t alone. My husband joined me for a rare evening without the kids (thank you to the world’s best babysitters—my parents!). I wanted to share my favorite spots with him, wandering carefree through the city to savor every last moment of summer. And as if the night needed more magic, it was the August full moon—a celestial event that transforms Athens into pure poetry. If you’re here during the August full moon, there’s one place you simply must be: the Acropolis.

We left home around 7 p.m.—still warm, but pleasant enough for a walk. Starting from Panepistimio metro station, we headed down Akadimias Boulevard and soon found ourselves in Kolonaki Square. It was his first time in this chic neighborhood, so we lingered among stylish boutiques and elegant cafés before strolling down Voukourestiou Street, Athens’ temple of high-end fashion and fine dining. Here, everyone looks like they stepped out of a magazine—Kolonaki feels like a city within the city, with its own rhythm and rules.

From Voukourestiou, we slipped into the City Link—a sophisticated arcade connecting the luxury department store Attica with trendy restaurants and coffee spots. After all that walking, we paused for a well-earned coffee and snack, then hit the road again. There was still so much to see!

Next stop: Syntagma Square, buzzing with tourists and locals alike. We wandered down Ermou Street, losing ourselves among the shops and side alleys alive with music and laughter. The scent of roasted corn mingled with melodies from street performers, creating a magical soundtrack for the evening.

Turning off Ermou, we headed into Psyrri, a neighborhood famous for its endless bars, tavernas, and live music venues—something for every taste. But we had one clear mission: Nancy’s Sweet Home. We grabbed a table outside, soaking in the music from the next-door bar, and spent a good half-hour debating what to order. In the end, we surrendered and ordered three desserts. Yes, three. No regrets—though we couldn’t finish them all and took the rest home. With heavy bodies but light hearts, we continued our adventure.

From Psyrri, we wandered to Monastiraki, where the illuminated Acropolis rose before us like a dream. The full moon had climbed high, and words felt unnecessary. We walked through the Ancient Agora, watching the moon weave between ancient columns. There was even a line of people waiting to capture the perfect shot—and yes, we waited too. Some moments deserve patience.

I couldn’t resist one last detour: Anafiotika, the hidden gem of Plaka. We climbed its stone-paved alleys, burning off those dessert calories and catching our breath in more ways than one. Descending toward Thissio, the aromas from the restaurants along Apostolou Pavlou were irresistible. After so much walking, we realized—we were hungry again! We chose a spot with a view of the Acropolis and the glowing full moon, and savored grilled fish and local greens. Midnight was approaching, and tomorrow meant packing for the return trip. But we weren’t ready to let go just yet.

From Apostolou Pavlou, we strolled down Dionysiou Areopagitou and reached the sacred rock of the Acropolis. The archaeological site was closed, but we visited the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, standing majestic and illuminated in the Attic night. We sat on its marble steps, sharing one of those deep, soul-connecting conversations that strengthen bonds and linger in memory.

Exhausted but fulfilled, we returned home, hearts full from this enchanting farewell to Athens. And I whispered a promise to my city: I’ll be back soon.

If you ever find yourself in Athens during the August full moon, don’t miss the chance to experience this magic. Start your evening in Kolonaki, wander through Syntagma and Ermou, indulge in Psyrri, and end under the moonlit Acropolis. It’s a night you’ll never forget.

Love, Katerina