Planning Your Own Trip?


Look for the links in green!

Home from Home


A couple of years ago, Josh, myself and my brother in law took a trip to Greece somewhere that has always felt like home to me. My pa

παππούς (Grandfather) is originally from Athens, and while he’s lived in the U.K. for many years now, Greece has been a constant little thread in my life. My mum and dad’s house is covered in vintage Greek posters, and nearly every meal was served with a Greek salad growing up. I visited often as a child, spending long summer days exploring the city with mum and dad and swimming in the med. Being back there always brings a wave of nostalgia, and warm, souvlaki filled childhood memories.

This time, I was seeing it through a new lens showing Josh the places that shaped so many of my childhood summers. We split our time between the vibrant streets of Athens and the quieter charm of the opposite coast, where some of my family were also staying. September turned out to be the perfect time to visit: warm but not scorching, with that late-summer ease in the air.


White wooden chairs with woven seats surround bright blue bistro tables in an empty cafe setting.
People walking along tree-lined Syntagma Square with modern buildings and fountains in Athens, Greece.

A Busy Syntagma Square

Athens: A City That Feels Like Home


Athens is one of those places that holds a different kind of feeling depending on how you experience it. To me, it’s not just the ancient ruins and bustling streets it’s the scent of fresh bread from corner bakeries, the chatter of locals at tiny cafes, and the way you can nearly always hear traditional music blaring out of a strangers car radio.

Wandering through Syntagma Square (the main city square of Athens, which also houses the countries parliament building) and all the way down to Plaka, I pointed out all the little details I remembered from childhood, places that hadn’t changed in years and others that felt completely different. Some corners made me sad, seeing how central Greece has suffered financially, with certain areas looking a little worse for wear. But other spots made me so happy, exactly the same as I remembered them, frozen in time.


If you're going to be around this area I recommend popping to the parliament building to see the traditional changing of the guard. There are changes every hour of the day, but on Sundays, the official ceremony with the original costumes takes place.




A traditional guard stands at attention next to a white guard booth with blue roof in front of a classical building in Athens.
Mediterranean style white building with a decorative balcony adorned with pink and white flowering plants.
Blue graffiti text on a weathered wall reads 'I am just doing my job' in stylized urban street art lettering.
Artistic black and white street art mural of an abstract figure with swirling cloud-like patterns adorns an outdoor wall.

Plaka - The Postcard of Athens


Plaka, one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Athens, was a highlight of our walks. Nestled just below the Acropolis, its narrow, winding streets are lined with colourful houses and charming tavernas. It’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into a postcard. Despite being a tourist hotspot, it somehow maintains an old-world charm, with little shops selling handmade jewellery, traditional Greek ceramics, and colourful textiles. If you're looking for something to do from your walk up or down from the acropolis, this is the perfect little neighbourhood.

A traditional yellow Mediterranean building with blue shutters and an ornate iron balcony on a quiet street.
Someone gently pets a striped tabby cat relaxing on concrete with green vines climbing the golden wall behind it.
Traditional Greek taverna exterior with pink walls, hanging flag, and outdoor seating with checkered tablecloths.
Vintage white Vespa scooter headlight detail with retro Italian styling and decorative stickers.
Street art wall featuring a black and white sketch of an underwater or fantasy landscape among graffiti and posters.
Mediterranean-style building with peach-colored walls, turquoise shutters and decorative lantern-style street lamps.
A brown cat sits curled up next to clay food bowls against a weathered white wall with a tree trunk.
Tourists walk down a narrow cobblestone street between colorful buildings in Athens, Greece with blue shutters and graffiti.
Mint green double doors with white trim on a peach colored building with potted plants and lantern in Athens Greece.
Pink bougainvillea flowers bloom against a white wall with vintage street lamp and Coca-Cola umbrella in Mediterranean setting.
Colorful buildings line a narrow cobblestone street in a Mediterranean neighborhood with traditional architecture.
Blue window shutters with menu text on a terracotta wall above a checkered tablecloth and wooden chair.
01 / 12

A View From The Top


We climbed up to Areopagus Hill in the early evening, watching the city beneath us and then on to the classic tourist spot of the acropolis. No matter how many times I visit, that view never gets old, and I knew Josh would love the historical significance.


For an alternative view of Athens, we also made the trek up Lycabettus Hill. It’s the highest point in the city, and the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. You can either hike up or take the funicular railway, but no matter how you get there, the sight of Athens sprawling out beneath you, especially at sunset, is completely worth it.

Aerial view of Athens cityscape showing traditional white buildings with terracotta roofs spread across urban landscape.

The queue for tickets to the acropolis site can get really long, there aren't many ticket booths open especially in the slower season. So we recommend booking your tickets online for a smoother entry. You can also get a guided tour if you're into history, we didn't as I'd been so many times before but kinda wish we had once I overheard one of the guides as it sounded super interesting.

A lone figure stands beneath the towering ancient columns of the Parthenon at the Acropolis in Athens.
Aerial view of Athens cityscape with densely packed buildings against mountain backdrop under cloudy skies.
Aerial view of Athens cityscape with dense urban buildings stretching to distant mountains under an overcast sky.
Historic bell tower overlooking Athens cityscape with visitors gathering at Mount Lycabettus on a cloudy day.
Aerial view of Athens cityscape with densely packed buildings and mountains in the background under cloudy skies.
Tourists explore the iconic Parthenon temple on the Acropolis of Athens against a cloudy sky.
Tourist wearing a green baseball cap and glasses visits the ancient Parthenon ruins in Athens, Greece.
Large group of tourists gather at hilltop viewpoint with Greek flag waving against cloudy sky and mountain backdrop.
Aerial view of Athens cityscape with Mount Lycabettus rising above densely packed buildings and houses.
Tourists visit the ancient Parthenon temple on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece under a cloudy sky.
01 / 10

Monastiraki Flea Market


Not far from Plaka, we wandered through the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market. It’s definitely a touristy spot, but there’s something fun about it none the less. Browsing endless stalls filled with everything from antiques to souvenirs and the occasional μπουζούκι (bouzouki) shop. The energy is infectious, and while you might have to sift through some tacky trinkets, you can still find beautiful handmade goods and unique keepsakes if you look carefully.

A bright blue fruit and vegetable market stall with colorful produce under historic arched colonnade in a European city.

O Thanasis - The Best Food in Athens


Just a short walk from Monastiraki, we met with family at O Thanasis - a restaurant that, in my opinion, serves the best food in Athens! (I know it only has 4.2 on google but it's honestly amazing, it deserves 5 stars and if you disagree I will happily fight you.) I’ve been going there since I was little, and nothing else quite compares. The meat is perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, the pita is warm and fluffy, and the tzatziki is exactly the right amount of garlicky. We ended up eating there nearly every night because, honestly, nothing could top it. I was so happy that Josh loved it just as much as I did. There’s something special about sharing a place you love with someone and seeing them fall for it too.

Mediterranean style building with cream colored walls, blue shuttered windows and a retractable awning for O'Thanasis cafe.
A plate of hot skillet kebab smothered in greek yoghurt and topped with diced pepperoni and sauce.
A plate of crispy french fries served alongside a fresh green salad and grilled protein on a white tablecloth.
Overhead view of a casual restaurant meal with french fries, salad, and beverages on white plates on a wooden table.
A juicy hamburger topped with caramelized onions and tomato being eaten at a restaurant table with a beer in the background.
White restaurant umbrella with 'O Thanasis' text at an outdoor dining area surrounded by trees and patrons.
Diners enjoy outdoor seating at a rustic Italian restaurant with blue shuttered windows and cream colored walls.
A fresh Greek salad with feta cheese, tomatoes, and red onions served in a white bowl next to pita bread.
01 / 08

I've been trying to learn Greek, and let’s just say - it’s a steep learning curve. I ordered a small Mythos at O Thanasis and somehow ended up with a massive one… but I wasn’t complaining! Josh just helped me finish it. Even if I stumble through the language, I try my best to use what I know, and the locals seem to appreciate the effort for the most part.


A tall glass of golden Mythos beer with white foamy head sits on a table in what appears to be a restaurant or bar.

Cocktails with a View of the Acropolis


One evening, we visited MS Roof Garden, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Acropolis. It’s an amazing spot to watch the city lights flicker on as the sun sets. The cocktails were a little overpriced, but the view alone made it worth the visit. If you’re looking for a more modern, stylish setting to enjoy Athens by night, this is definitely one to check out.

Indoor restaurant decorated with glowing lanterns, floral arrangements and hanging greenery creating a magical ambiance.
The illuminated Acropolis stands majestically atop a hill overlooking Athens at night with city lights glowing below.
Two craft cocktails on a wooden bar counter, one tall pink drink with pineapple and one orange cocktail in a coupe glass.

Athens Zoo


One of our more unexpected but fun stops was Athens Zoo. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but we ended up having the best time, especially in the lemur enclosure. They tell you not to touch them, but the lemurs have other ideas. They jump straight onto your shoulders, climbing over you like you’re part of their jungle gym. I could have stayed there all day playing with them. If you’re visiting Athens with kids, I highly recommend it (or even if you’re just a big kid like us!). It's not too tricky to get there via bus, or you can get a taxi if you don't mind spending a bit extra.


A small lemur perches atop a green baseball cap while another lemur peers from the side against an overcast sky.
Ring-tailed lemur with distinctive large eyes sits perched on bamboo pole amid green foliage.
Two ring-tailed lemurs perch on someone's shoulder, showing their distinctive striped tails and bright orange eyes.
A curious ring-tailed lemur perches on a green baseball cap while looking to the side.
Two giraffes lean in close to be hand fed green vegetation at a wildlife encounter or safari park.
Two curious giraffes peek over a wooden fence with their long necks, showing their distinctive spotted patterns.
A ring-tailed lemur with distinctive black and white striped tail perches on a stone wall in natural lighting.
A curious ring-tailed lemur perches on the shoulder of a hiker wearing a green baseball cap and backpack in nature.
01 / 07

A few days in, the weather took a turn. Other areas of Greece were experiencing record-breaking floods, and while we were safe, the aftermath reached us in the form of strong winds along the coastline later in our trip. But we didn’t let it stop us. When it got particularly bad we popped into the National Archaeological Museum (a cool stop if you're into history, although they didn't have any guided tours on that day, which I think would have made it even better.) to get out of the rain. A reminder that nature has its own plans, and sometimes, you just have to go with it, as the Athenians seemed to as well.

Misty forest view through a window frame with silhouetted trees in moody green tones.
Busy Greek street flooded with rain water.
Covered outdoor patio with red-lit interior and silhouetted figures visible through glass windows at dusk.

A Hidden Gem: Vouliagmeni Lake


One of the places I had always wanted to visit was Vouliagmeni Lake, a natural thermal spa just outside Athens. It’s an unusual place, set within a limestone cave, the lake is fed by both the sea and underground mineral springs, keeping the water at a warm temperature year-round. The minerals are said to have healthful effects, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors looking for a relaxing swim.


Getting there was a bit of an adventure. Since we were relying on public transport, it took a bit of a trek, but I was determined. I dragged the lads with me, and by the third bus they were getting a bit fed up with me, but we made a whole day of it. The moment we arrived, it was worth it, stepping into the warm water, surrounded by the cliffs. 

People swim in a lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs while enjoying the natural beauty of Vouliagmeni Lake in Greece.

One of the funniest parts of our visit was the lake’s famous fish. Tiny Garra rufa fish swim around, nibbling at the dead skin on your feet - a natural exfoliation treatment. Not relaxing if you’re extremely ticklish. But the best part? A very cheeky cat had figured out that tourists pull the fish out of the water to look at them, and it was waiting nearby, ready to snatch them up. It had clearly been running this scam for a while, and we couldn’t stop laughing at how sneaky it was.

Steep limestone cliffs rise above dark teal waters at a Mediterranean lake with green vegetation near the base.
A fluffy black cat with yellow eyes lounges on a wooden deck while someone in turquoise clothing sits nearby.
People swim in turquoise water beneath tall limestone cliffs at a natural swimming hole on a summer day.
Someone swimming in turquoise rippling water on a sunny day, creating concentric circles in the natural pool.
A scenic bridge spans a tranquil lake surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery in Vouliagmeni, Greece.
Black cat sitting on a wooden dock looking out over dark water on a calm day.
Steep limestone cliff face rises above tranquil green lake with swimmers enjoying the water on a cloudy day.
Hand holding a vibrant red layered drink with foam and black straw against a blurred rocky cliff and water background.
01 / 08

Slower Days by the Coast


After a couple of days in the city, we headed to the coast, Rafina, to be specific, as this is always where my family would go, where life moves at a completely different pace. This was the part of the trip I was most excited for, introducing Josh to the kind of beach days I grew up with, where the water is impossibly clear, and afternoons stretch lazily into evening.


One afternoon we met with family at a restaurant in the square (Limeni - If you happen to be a Rafina, although it's not usually a holiday destination unless you know the area!) and had a medley of different dishes - moussaka, kleftiko, stuffed peppers, and Greek salad. Perfect!

A bottle of Mamos craft beer with an Amstel glass filled with golden lager on a white tablecloth.
Overhead view of restaurant dining table with lasagna, salad plates, and drinks on a blue tablecloth.
Vintage-style dining table setting with beer bottles, plates of food and glassware at a casual meal.

I took us to one of my favourite beaches growing up - Schinias. This is more towards the Marathon area than Athens. There’s a few beach clubs that stretch along the beach but I recommend this one - Delfini. The chairs are a little pricey, but it’s worth it, as the facilities are well taken care of and the food is delicious, (try the crab salad! Amazing!)

Beach goers relax on sandy shore with thatched umbrellas and boats against mountainous coastline under blue sky.
Rows of thatched palm umbrellas and lounge chairs line a sandy beach under a bright blue sky.
Two glasses of cold beer with a small plate of crab salad garnished with a cherry tomato on a wooden restaurant table.
Serene Mediterranean beach with palm trees and mountains in the background under a bright blue sky.
Tropical beach with thatched umbrellas and sunbathers on sandy shore under blue sky and white clouds.
A plate of seafood paella or rice dish garnished with shrimp and parsley sits on a white restaurant table.
Breaded fish served on a black plate with French fries on the side.
Beach scene with thatched umbrellas and lounge chairs along turquoise waters on a sunny tropical coastline.
Scenic Mediterranean beach with thatched umbrellas, mountains in background and beachgoers enjoying sunny day.
01 / 08

I wouldn’t recommend going here unless you’ve rented a car or are staying nearby, though, since we really struggled to find a way home. We ended up getting the restaurant owner to call a taxi for us, only for it to turn into a bit of an adventure. One taxi took us part of the way, then drove us to another taxi driver’s house so he could take us the rest of the way. Big cringe - we felt so awful for disturbing his Sunday!


Spending time with family made everything even more special. Meals lasted longer than they do back home, filled with fresh food, laughter, and Papou telling Josh and my brother-in-law stories about his life in the merchant navy. We spent our days swimming, exploring tiny coastal towns, and eating midnight souvlaki.

Table setting with Greek salad topped with feta cheese, grilled waffle plate, and drinks at a restaurant.
Person with backpack looking out at blue ocean waters and rocky coastline on sunny day.
Night view of illuminated storefronts and buildings along a Mediterranean street with neon signs and outdoor seating.

A Trip That Left Us Inspired


One of the best things about traveling as photographers is how much it sparks creativity. There’s something about Greece, its warmth, its history, its golden light, that makes it the perfect setting for love stories. Being there made me dream about photographing a wedding against these sun-drenched backdrops, where the sea meets the sky, and every moment feels cinematic.


This trip was a reminder of how much travel can shape the way we see the world, and how much we’d love to capture weddings in places like this. Greece will always feel like home to me, but seeing it through Josh’s eyes made it even more special.


If you’re planning a wedding in Greece (or anywhere abroad!), we’d love to hear about it. There’s nothing quite like documenting love in a place that feels like magic.