I have experience informing tourists in Romania about the places to go to and what to do. Also, as a Romanian tour guide, I got very annoyed to see foreigners talk about the best places to eat, even though they do not live in my country. So I compiled my perspective as a tour guide in Romania visiting a city outside Romania. Spoiler alert, the best information you can get is from tour guides.
What should I know about the most visited monuments?
You are visiting the most renowned landmark of a city, you should know this:
- Where do I get tickets?
Going to Athens, I knew I was going to visit the Parthenon, so I had to do some research before hand. Good news: I went in February during the week, so there was no queue. Make sure you book in advance if you are going in full season, and the best place to book is Hellenic Heritage E-tickets as it helps you skip the line for purchasing tickets.
- Is the timetable precise?
In Greece, timetables are a bit iffy so it is important to do your research as the timetable might not be the one you find on Google Maps (you can ask a tour guide for tips and tricks). Also, closing time in Greece means that at that time they kick everyone out of museums or landmarks.
- Does the monument I’m visiting require a reservation?
Monuments require renovation, so you might not get the best view at that moment in time, or it could even be close and not even inform you, so always do your research. I didn’t when I went but was willing to fail as there is plenty to see in Athens.
- Do I need my ID when visiting this place?
This does not apply to the Parthenon, but if you want to go to government buildings or other high security buildings, they might require you to have an ID on hand, so it is something to which you should pay attention. Usually, you find this information on the official site.
Are there free tours? Tip based tours?
Nothing can top first hand sources. Not a random youtuber visiting for the first time ever a country. The best person to inform you is a person living there who can give you the best perspective for your trip.
Is the monument open? Where should I eat that? Should I do a day trip to…? Is it dangerous to go there? What should I not say in this country? What is the best way to go to the airport? Where can I go clubbing? – A local tour guide will know the answer to all of these questions.
I did my research and found Athens free walking tour, a professional, funny 3 hour tour with Andrew that just passed by without realising it: https://www.athensfreewalkingtour.com/ .
What areas should you be staying at?
I knew what I wanted, and that was a nice accommodation in a calm part of town. I made a list of accommodations, discussed it with my partner, found a really good offer, and stayed in Thesio, which was a very calm neighborhood in Athens. We walked everywhere. The funny thing is, I discovered this guy after booking and realized I made a good choice:
How will I get from the airport to the city?
The easiest way to get to the city is by metro. The only annoying thing is that the machines where you purchase the tickets are not very clear on how to purchase tickets. Good thing I found this video:
It’s cheaper to buy a bus ticket, but you will be dealing with the traffic.
Should I get an Uber/Bolt/Taxi?
If you are with friends and a lot of luggage, it will be easier to get Free Now – the app that is used in Athens. A taxi will show up because only taxis can deliver individuals.
Are there cultural norms that I should be aware of?
It’s Greece, don’t say some food is Turkish, and you should be fine.
The tip is 10% for good service.
If you are going to a Greek Orthodox church, don’t wear clothing that shows off too much skin (usually you have warning signs), and if you are a man, take your hat off.
What should I be eating? Where should I be eating?
I love food, and I did a ton of research, these are some of the hidden gems that I personally discovered.
Ouzeri Karayiannis – Hole in the wall family place to eat in the fish market where workers used to eat back in the day
Location: Google Maps
O Thanasis – Kebab, Souvlaki place considered one of the most legendary places to eat at according to Taste Atlas, also recommended by Andrew and some youtubers. Fun fact the owner was still guiding people in the building. Looks a bit like a tourist trap but service is quick and good
Location: Google Maps
Photis Deli Sandwiches – Amazing Sandwiches with Greek ingredients
Location: Google Maps
Also Andrew (my tour guide from https://www.athensfreewalkingtour.com/ )recommended these places:
- Atlantikos – Authentic seafood place with a really down-to-earth experience (+ an amazing portocalopita)
Location: Google Maps
- LUKUMAΔΕΣ – Addictive sweet dumplings
Location: Google Maps
- Winepoint – Cheese Tasting, It was recommended for the wine but the cheese platter made me really happy
Location: Google Maps
Where can I get a nice view of the city?
My personal favorite spots are Philopappos Viewing Point and Philopappos Hill
Location: Philopappos Viewing Point and Philopappos Hill
And I think this tour guide explains it best:
Are Day trips worth doing?
If you are staying in Athens for more than 3 days or if you get bored easily, you can go on a day trip.
Hope this helps! And Dracula awaits you in Bucharest!
Dracula's Guide to Romania 
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