Day 3

This was a Sunday and we had already planned to be at the Parliament Square (Syntagma) to watch the Change of Guard ceremony. Reached the spot at 10.30 am; the ceremony began around 10.45 and ended by 11.30 am. Interesting spectacle watching the Evzones and their royal gear!!

Went around the Parliament building and walked through the National Garden to reach Zappeion a landmark building, which is currently used for conferences and exhibitions. Spent some time looking around the building and a week-end market inside the halls.

Came out and hailed a taxi to make our way to the planned lunch at Avacado restaurant at Nikis, highly recommended by TA members. We had to wait for about 20 minutes as the place is popular and the number of tables is also limited. True to its status the restaurant’s menu was very unique with several signature dishes. We ordered a mix of Asian and Mediterranean- Spicy Thai soup, Falafel, Mushroom forest burger, Om Shanthi -a delicious creamy curry and rice- and a Carrot Cake total cost Euro 23 for three pax). The food was very delicious!! Not to be missed. Unfortunately they don’t take reservations so you have to reach and wait until you are seated.

After a relaxed lunch took a taxi to reach Lycabettus hill. Took the cable car to the top and enjoyed the panoramic views of the sprawling city as we waited for the sunset. As the sun went down and the lights went up, it was spectacular to see the Acropolis lit up against the backdrop of Aegean Sea afar. There is a small but beautiful church atop.

Getting a taxi on return may be tricky. A couple of taxi guys waiting at the gate wouldn’t switch on the meter and were demanding a fixed (higher) fare. We waited a while and soon there was a taxi which we jumped in and reached our apartment early, as we had to pack up and leave for Santorini by the next morning flight.