A Summer Adventure in Greece
A Taste of Greece: The Pasta That Changed My Life
When people think of Greece, their minds often drift to the Acropolis, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins. But let me start with something closer to my heart: food. And no, I’m not talking about the usual suspects like Greek salad or moussaka. I’m talking about the best pasta I’ve ever had—a dish that ruined pasta for me forever (in the best way).
The Pasta Revelation
One evening, we stumbled upon a rooftop restaurant with rave reviews. Unbeknownst to us, it had an incredible view of the Acropolis, which was lit up like a jewel against the night sky—a pleasant surprise that elevated our dinner.
This pasta is so good it might spoil you for life. Every pasta dish I’ve had since has been an endless chase to match that flavour, but nothing compares. If you’re a pasta lover, this is a must-try.
Athens Capital Center Hotel – MGallery Collection, a 5-star hotel in the heart of Athens, which houses a stunning rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the Acropolis: Athens Capital Center Hotel Restaurant
We love the dessert as well! Definitely recommend!
Meteora: A Surprising Slice of Magic
While Greece is synonymous with sun-soaked beaches, Meteora surprised us with its otherworldly beauty. Located about 4.5 hours by train from Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to six monasteries perched atop towering rock formations.
These monasteries are architectural wonders, seemingly carved out of the rocks themselves. Each monastery has its own charm, and the views are breathtaking. Make sure to check the seasonal schedules, as not all monasteries are open daily.
Exploring Meteora
We rented a scooter and explored the area, soaking in the dramatic landscape. The highlight was catching the sunset from one of the viewpoints—it’s worth arriving early to snag the best spot.
Where to Stay and Eat close to Meteora
We stayed in Kalabaka, a charming town that serves as the perfect base for visiting Meteora. Here are two restaurants we loved:
1.Ambrosia Taverna – Delicious food and incredibly friendly staff.
2.Feel the Rock – Come for the view; stay for the ambiance.
We love the dessert as well! Definitely recommend!
Athens: The Good, The Crowded, and The Hot
Athens in July? Scorching. With temperatures hitting 40°C (104°F) and more, exploring was a challenge. If you plan to visit, aim for May/June or September/October when the weather is more forgiving.
Acropolis: A Mixed Bag
The Acropolis is a must-see, but our experience was underwhelming. It was crowded, under renovation, and required a long wait in the heat. While it’s undoubtedly an iconic site, manage your expectations.
Walk around Athens instead. The streets are lined with quirky shops, perfect for finding unique gifts. If you’re into chess, the city is full of cool sets worth checking out! The day we have a permanent home, I am definitely getting a cool set.
Lycabettus Hill: Sunrise Serenity
One of our favorite experiences was hiking Lycabettus Hill at sunrise. It’s an easy climb, and the panoramic views of Athens were a peaceful contrast to the bustling city below.
Zakynthos: Island Adventures
Our last stop was the stunning island of Zakynthos. From horseback riding in the sea to driving a speedboat, Zakynthos was a playground for adventure.
Horse Riding in the Sea
Swimming with horses? A bucket-list experience. Although it felt a bit rushed, it was magical and something I’ll always remember. It was a unique birthday gift!
Speedboats and Shipwreck Beach
Driving a speedboat without a license is an option here (just make sure it’s fully insured). Navigating the turquoise waters was exhilarating, though tricky at times. And, of course, no trip to Zakynthos is complete without visiting Shipwreck Beach. The cliffs, the water’s color, and the dramatic views make it a must-see.
Unfortunately, repairs prevented us from landing on the beach itself.
Final Thoughts: Greece, We’ll Be Back!
Greece has always been on my travel bucket list, and this trip confirmed it’s a destination worth revisiting. From the food (still dreaming about that pasta) to the rich culture, beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes, there’s so much more to explore. Writing about it makes me want to pack my bags and return immediately!
