Posts in EUROPE
FOUR DAYS IN VIENNA: A CITY GUIDE
Vienna
Vienna
Vienna
 

VIENNA

Vienna is the kind of city that makes you want to slow down, drink coffee in a chandelier-lit café, and pretend you live in a Wes Anderson movie. Regal yet welcoming, it's a place where imperial palaces meet cozy wine taverns, and classical music floats through the air as naturally as the scent of fresh strudel.

I spent four days in Vienna and honestly, it was the perfect amount of time to fall completely in love with this beautifully preserved European capital. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for the best slice of sachertorte, Vienna has something for you.

Vienna at night

 

4 NIGHTS

BEST TIME TO VISIT – April–June or September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds
GETTING AROUND – U-Bahn (super clean & easy), trams, or walking
CURRENCY – Euros – credit cards widely accepted, but keep a little cash for smaller shops and cafés

 

Where to Stay in Vienna

Luxury

  • Hotel Sacher Wien – Iconic, elegant, and home of the original sachertorte. Old-world charm and unmatched service.

  • Rosewood Vienna – A newer luxury option blending historic architecture with contemporary design. Central location.

Modern & Stylish

  • Hotel Motto – Eclectic Parisian-meets-Viennese glam with bold interiors and a rooftop bar.

  • The Guesthouse Vienna – Understated elegance with cozy rooms, a fantastic café, and views of the Albertina.

Budget-Friendly

  • MOOONS Vienna – A boutique-style hotel with sleek rooms and surprisingly great rates. Steps from the main train station.

  • 25hours Hotel Vienna at MuseumsQuartier – Colorful, quirky, and super fun. Great for creatives or solo travelers.


Where to Eat in Vienna

Traditional Viennese

  • Plachutta Wollzeile – Famous for their tafelspitz (boiled beef), this is a must for a true taste of Austrian cuisine.

  • Figlmüller – Known for the best schnitzel in Vienna. Portions are huge—come hungry.

Modern & Trendy

  • Motto am Fluss – Chic dining on the Danube Canal with a beautiful brunch and great evening vibes.

  • Labstelle – Farm-to-table dishes in a cozy, stylish space. Great wine list too.

Cafés & Sweets

  • Café Central – Historic and photogenic. Expect a line, but the cakes and ambiance are worth the wait.

  • Demel – Classic pastries and imperial flair. Grab an apple strudel and a window seat.

  • Joseph Brot – Great bakery for fresh breads, sandwiches, and healthy brunch options.

What to Do and See in Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace
Tour the former imperial summer residence and walk the perfectly manicured gardens. Don’t skip the Gloriette view!

Belvedere Palace
A gorgeous baroque complex housing some of Austria’s most famous art—including Klimt’s The Kiss.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Climb the tower for panoramic city views, or simply admire the stunning Gothic architecture from below.

MuseumQuartier
A cultural hub packed with museums, galleries, and cafés. Ideal for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

Vienna State Opera
Even if you don’t catch a performance, take a tour. The interiors are jaw-dropping.

Naschmarkt
A vibrant market with everything from fresh produce to global street food. Great for a midday snack and people-watching.

Ride the Ring Tram
A fun, affordable way to see Vienna’s key historic buildings without doing all the walking.


Final Thoughts

Vienna is elegant without being pretentious, classic without being stuffy. It’s the kind of city you’ll want to return to again and again. Between the palaces, pastries, and peaceful energy, four days here feels like a real treat.

If you’re planning a European itinerary that includes Vienna + Prague + Budapest, I’d love to help you build the perfect route.

📩 Let’s start planning

 
FOUR DAYS IN PRAGUE: A CITY GUIDE
Prague
Prague%2C+Old+Town
Prague%2C+Trolley
 

PRAGUE

Prague, with its romantic cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and centuries-old charm, is truly a city that feels like stepping into a fairytale. It’s packed with history, yet buzzing with modern energy, where cozy cafés and cool cocktail bars sit next to castles and cathedrals.

During my visit in March, I only had two full days to explore, and let me tell you, it wasn’t nearly enough! I highly recommend at least three to four nights to truly soak in everything this stunning city has to offer.

 
 
Prague, river

 

4 NIGHTS

BEST TIME TO VISIT – MID-APRIL TO MAY AND SEPTEMBER TO MID-OCTOBER IS SHOULDER SEASON. BRING A WARM JACKET.
GETTING AROUND – UBER, TRAINS, OR WALKING
CURRENCY – EUROS, MOST PLACES TAKE CREDIT CARDS

 

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WHERE TO STAY

Luxury

  • The Mozart Prague – A luxury option with historic elegance and river views, just steps from the Charles Bridge.

Modern & Stylish

  • Boho Hotel Prague – Chic, minimalist, and walkable to Old Town. My favorite boutique hotel in the city.

  • The Julius Prague – Stylish and modern with apartment-style suites and a great location near Wenceslas Square.

Trendy & Artsy

  • NYX Hotel Prague by Leonardo Hotels – Funky, artsy, and centrally located with a young, social vibe.

Budget-Friendly

  • Mosaic House Design Hotel – A great budget-friendly pick with eco-friendly touches, a cool café, and a lively atmosphere.


WHERE TO EAT

Eska – A modern Czech restaurant in the trendy Karlin district. The food is creative, beautifully plated, and the sourdough is reason enough to visit.
Kantýna – Think upscale Czech pub meets butcher shop. It’s casual, communal, and serves some of the best meats and beer in town.
Café Savoy – Elegant Viennese-style café with fresh pastries, chandeliers, and amazing brunch.
U Modré Kachničky (The Blue Duckling) – Romantic and traditional, perfect for a cozy Czech dinner.
Mlejnice – A rustic hidden gem near Old Town Square with hearty Czech classics at great prices.
Manifesto Market – An open-air food hall with a rotating lineup of international street food and great cocktails.


WHAT TO DO AND SEE:

Charles Bridge
One of the most iconic sights in Prague. Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and dreamy views over the Vltava River.

Prague Castle
More of a complex than a single castle, this sprawling site includes palaces, courtyards, and chapels. Don’t miss St. Vitus Cathedral, it’s absolutely stunning.

Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
The heart of Prague. Make time to watch the hourly clock show, then grab a drink at one of the nearby cafés for prime people-watching.

Mala Strana Neighborhood
Charming and less touristy, with quiet streets, hidden gardens, and pastel townhouses. One of my favorite areas to wander.

Lennon Wall
A colorful symbol of peace, rebellion, and art. Bring a Sharpie if you want to leave your mark.

Petřín Hill
For panoramic city views, take the funicular or hike up. There's a mini Eiffel Tower at the top (yes, really), plus peaceful gardens and wooded trails.


Final Thoughts

Prague is one of those cities that sneaks up on you—it’s romantic, walkable, and full of beautiful contradictions. Whether you’re into history, food, architecture, or just wandering without a plan, it’s the perfect long-weekend destination in Europe.

Need help planning your trip to Prague (or pairing it with Vienna, Budapest, or another European city)? I’d love to help!

📩 Let’s start planning

 
2 WEEKS IN GREECE: ATHENS, MYKONOS, PAROS, CRETE
 
Crete

Disclaimer: This post contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees, but support me to keep this site running!


GREECE ITINERARY: ATHENS, MYKONOS, PAROS, CRETE

Our 14-Day Greece Itinerary:


Athens (1 night)

Mykonos (3 nights)

Paros (3 nights)

Crete (5 nights)

Athens (1 night)

Total days: 14

Mykonos

When someone comes to me wanting to plan a custom vacation to Greece, I immediately get excited! Greece is one of my all-time favorite European countries, the food, the culture, the hospitality, it's truly hard to beat.

For my second trip to Greece, I wanted to experience both the energy of the “hot spots” and the ease of more under-the-radar gems. On my first visit, I explored Naxos, Paros, and Santorini. This time? We chose a blend of classic and new: Mykonos, Paros, and Crete.


ATHENS (1 night, pre-ferry/flight stay)

Athens is usually more of a gateway than a destination for me, but it’s always worth a short stop. I recommend staying in the Plaka area or near Syntagma Square for easy access to restaurants, shopping, and views of the Acropolis. One night is all you need if you're just passing through!


MYKONOS (3 nights)

Mykonos is exactly what you'd expect: buzzy beach clubs, whitewashed charm, and a mix of glam and grit. Yes, it can be busy, especially with cruise ships in port, but there’s also a calmer side.

We stayed just outside of town to enjoy a more relaxed vibe. Mykonos is great for foodies, couples, and even families (yes, really, if you avoid peak party zones). It’s a fun stop if you want a taste of the “see and be seen” Greek experience.

Tip: Book restaurants in advance and escape to less-crowded beaches like Agios Sostis for a quieter day.


PAROS (3 nights)

Paros continues to win us over, so much so, this was our second visit! It’s like Mykonos’ cooler, calmer cousin. No cruise ship crowds, plenty of charming villages, and incredible food.

We stayed in Naoussa, which is lively but not overrun, with beautiful waterfront dining and boutique shops. Rent a car or ATV to explore smaller villages like Lefkes and take a boat day to nearby Antiparos or Kolymbithres Beach.

Tip: Paros has the perfect mix of local charm and modern comfort. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for laid-back luxury.


CRETE (5 nights)

Crete completely surprised us—in the best way. It’s rugged, vast, and packed with things to do. Whether you're hiking gorges, wandering historical towns, or relaxing at Balos Beach, Crete delivers.

We split our time between Chania (so charming and walkable) and Elounda for a quieter, more luxe finale. Crete is the largest Greek island and stays open year-round, making it a fantastic choice for shoulder season or travelers who want more than just sun and sand.

Tip: Don’t miss a cooking class or wine tasting in the countryside. Crete’s food scene is incredible and so rooted in tradition.


ATHENS (1 night before departure)

We wrapped up our trip with one final night in Athens to catch our flight home. This is always a good idea in case of ferry delays or schedule shifts. If you didn’t get to see the Acropolis at the start of your trip, now’s the time!

That Blonde Travels exploring the Greek Islands on a 14-day itinerary

Planning Your Greece Trip with That Blonde Travels

This itinerary is a great mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure—and completely customizable based on your pace and travel style. Whether you want to swap Paros for Naxos, add in Santorini, or slow it down with longer stays in fewer places, I’m here to help.

Let’s plan your dream Greece vacation!


WHERE TO STAY

Don’t forget—when you book through That Blonde Travels, you’ll receive VIP perks at most of these properties, all at no extra cost to you.
Think complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, resort credits, and more. Here are a few of my favorite stays in each destination:

ATHENS:
• The Dolli
• New Hotel
• Athens Capital Hotel – MGallery Collection
• One&Only Aesthesis (NEW + stunning!)
• Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

MYKONOS:
• Bill & Coo Suites and Lounge
• Cali Mykonos
• Kalesma Mykonos

PAROS:
• Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels
• Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort
• Parocks Luxury Hotel & Spa

CRETE:
• Domes Noruz Chania – Adults Only
• Domes Zeen Chania
• Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort


Want help choosing the perfect hotel or villa for your Greece getaway?

 
PAROS RESTAURANT GUIDE
 
Paros

Paros

Blue Oyster
Ampelas
Tel: +302284052707

At Blue Oyster bar/restaurant in Ambelas you will find a variety of fish, delicious starters, Mediterranean dishes and fresh oysters. It opened in July 2020 and in its dishes it hosts the best that the Parian sea and land has to offer. Fresh fish and shellfish, Cycladic products and locally farmed meat, are transformed into wonderful creations in its kitchen, which will not disappoint even the most demanding. Its environment is exactly what you are looking for on your vacation: A beautiful terrace overlooking the endless blue, air awnings, comfortable seating, finesse from end to end. The menu is of the same philosophy – familiar flavors, teased so as to highlight the top raw materials, elegant presentations, meat options and fish.

Cuore Rosso
Parikia
Tel: +302284022920

At Cuore Rosso, you will enjoy a culinary experience in true Italian style! Hre pizza is the queen!

Every product used in the kitchen is carefully selected from the most excellent Italian produce. The menu features a wealth of traditional Italian dishes: stuffed calzones, delicious lasagna, carpaccios, typical Italian platters of regional cold cuts accompanied by the famous fried 'gnocchi' and, finally creamy 'burrata' with truffle, delicious buffalo mozzarella and fresh salads with many tasty combinations! 

Galazia Hytra
Summer Senses Hotel
Tel: +302284093000

In collaboration with Michelin star restaurant Hytra (Athens), Galazia Hytra welcomes guests within the premises of Summer Senses Hotel indulging in an evening of fine dining under the Mediterranean stars. The team at Galazia Hytra invite guests to taste a menu of unique dishes representing the best of creative Greek cuisine with an international twist, updating classic recipes with modern techniques and exceptional raw ingredients.

Henri G
Parikia
Tel: +302284024407

Established in a unique neoclassical mansion built in 1890 and located in the centre of Parikia’s old Market Street. On its exclusive balcony, guests can enjoy an elegant dinner while shoaling up the atmosphere of the traditional market, by observing the goings-on in the streets below and enjoying the view on the dome of the “Aghia Triada” church. Chef Henri Emmanuel Guibert is half Greek and half French. He is presenting an elegant and sincere Mediterranean cuisine, with a discrete touch of French inspiration, using local selected products from Paros.

Sigi Ixthios
Naousa
Tel: +302284052639

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Siparos Seaside **** My fav
Naousa
Tel: +302284052785

Siparos serves the culture and flavor of Paros with a creative, contemporary twist.

We blend authentic Mediterranean tastes from local ingredients to make own-label products and traditional dishes, reimagined for the modern diner.

Mario
Parikia
Tel: +302284051047

Mediterranean cuisine and with target on quality, organic and fresh products with local aromas and tastes of the Aegean culture. Their cuisine uses local groceries, daily fresh fish and of course with the help of the weather, they offer best sunsets, with great food and refined wine. 

Mr. E
Parilio Hotel
Tel:+302284051000

Parilio connects with the local parian cuisine and pays tribute to old traditional recipes and local produce seen through the eyes of Mr. E, a global explorer of today, that anchored in Paros to connect his past with the present. While soaking in the calmness and relaxing surroundings, your stay will be enriched by subtle pleasures and a wealth of culinary diversions prepared by celebrated Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis.

Tsachpinis
Naousa
Tel: +302284051300

Right in the center of the small port of Naoussa operates fish restaurant Ouzo Seafarers Tsachpinis.

Situated directly accessible from each side of Naoussa and seafront provides the opportunity to enjoy other dishes, spaghetti with seafood, fresh fish, handmade, traditional dishes cooked with love.

Barbarossa
Naousa
Tel: +302284051391

Barbarossa has a history in Paros. Its kitchen has served celebrities, members of royal families, people who have written history. But the ingredients remain simple. They are the building blocks of Greek island gastronomy. The foods that Paros produces. Barbarossa's kitchen is Paros, on a plate.

Les Amis
Pounta Port
Tel: +302284051110

Wine bar restaurant with fine Mediterranean cuisine combined with gourmet flavors. Options from fine dips and dishes can accompany your drink. The magnificent balcony of the wine bar Les Amis will enchant you.

Klarinos
Lefkes
Tel: +302284041608

If you are looking for a break from fish, Klarinos in the beautiful village of Lefkes is the best place to try simple and wholesome Greek food. This is clearly a meat taverna, so make sure you try the succulent barbecue spare ribs, bifteki or sausage. For vegetarians, dishes like spanakopita and fried zucchini offer a delicious alternative. A budget choice with excellent value for money.

Ouzeri Halaris
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284043257

Fresh fish and an endless list of fish appetizers by the port at Piso Livadi. 

Soso
Naousa
Tel: +306974878281

Located in a quiet cobblestone alley in the picturesque port of Naoussa, Soso prepares high-quality Greek fusion dishes that have made it the culinary queen of the town. Soso is perfect for a dinner for two and for those who like traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The wine and beer menu are varied and well thought of. Dishes like the haloumi cheese with honey, the lamb in lemon sauce and the slow-cooked pork are among the most popular.

Markakis
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284042177

“Markakis” restaurant is located in the eastern part of Paros in the beautiful and picturesque port of Piso Livadi. The hospitable space combined with the wonderful traditional Cycladic meze plates and the affordable prices we provide create the ideal backdrop for the visitor. In our place you can try seafood, meat and vegetables dishes of high gastronomic interest as well as dishes with special flavors and Cycladic scents. Enjoy your lunch and dinner ideally with the new list of ouzo and Greek spirits as well as the wine list where you can find Greek labels always looking at the picturesque harbor of Piso Livadi.

Mediterraneo
Naousa
Tel: +302284053176

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Monastiri Beach Club
Monastiri Beach
Tel: +302284053560

Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant is a real-life utopia on Paros Island that shows its visitors how to experience life in a holistic and sustainable way. Whether someone is looking for a gastronomical adventure or just a place to indulge in the coolest summer activities, our venue, our services, and our staff can accommodate the most important moments of your life and satisfy everyone’s high standards and lavish needs. Get lost in our summer utopia and explore a side of life in unprecedented style.

Thalassa mou
Alyki
Tel:+302284091461

Thalassa mou offers fresh Greek Mediterranean cuisine. Home made creative dishes by owner chef Marios Salmatanis that are unique on the island. Extensive wine list.

Yemeni
Naousa
Tel: +302284051445

Greek traditional cuisine. During your walk in the picturesque alleys of Naoussa you will find Yemeni, a traditional tavern operating since 2007 with respect to quality and tradition. The menu includes mainly homemade specialties cooked with passion and fresh ingredients, most of which come from the owners’ farms. Traditional Parion omelette (strapatsada), lamb cooked in the wood oven with potatoes, cured beef served with cheese & tomato, meatballs with tomato sauce (soutzoukakia), stuffed cabbage leaves with rice & meat, and many more will certainly not make your choice easy. Do not miss the octopus with fava beans.

Antiparos

Captain Pipinos
Agios Georgios
Tel: +302284021823

Located at Saint George beach and overlooking Despotiko bay, Captain Pipinos is one of the most famous restaurants of Antiparos serving fresh fish and delicious seafood dishes. 

Klimataria Tavern
Chora
Tel: +302284061061

Greek traditional food

Sapou
Chora
Tel: +302284061165

Famous international cuisine restaurant

Lollo’s
Chora
Tel: +302284061215

Great pizza that tastes authentically Italian!

Vassilenas Blue
Antiparos Town
Tel: +302107210501

Vassilenas Blue brings to Antiparos the same prize-winning tastes and the hospitality tradition of the most historic Greek restaurant. Vassilenas was established in 1920 and is run by the same family for three generations. In Antiparos, away from the big crowds, we will be sharing our modern Greek cuisine and our love for fish, seafood, Greek wine, and relaxed hospitality. We are looking forward to welcoming you around the big olive tree that dominates our beautiful courtyard.

Samano
Chora, Kouros Village Hotel
Tel.+302284061497

Self-described as ‘’refined gastro’’, Samano restaurant is a new arrival in Antiparos dining scene. Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with a twist along with an interesting wine and cocktail list.

Santa Pacou
+30 6972424104

In the purely Cycladic setting with white tables and handmade decorative details adding their own touch of elegance, Santa Pacou is a traditional Greek cuisine restaurant with a modern twist and creative curiosity. King of experience, the traditional wood oven, which dominates the beautiful balcony and bakes incessantly kneaded bread, pies, local meats and much more.


Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!


 
FOODIE FRIDAY: MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
 
MAMALOUKA MYKONOS

Image c/o Mamalouka

Website: Mamalouka

Address: 53 KOUZI GEORGOULI STREET, MYKONOS GR 846 00

Reservations required? Yes

Phone: Tel: +30 22890 23505

Would I recommend? Yes

MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
MAMALOUKA MYKONOS

Mamalouka was tucked away in the windy streets of Mykonos town. We headed out to this cute spot on our second night in Mykonos.

Pro tip: Parking in Mykonos can be challenging. If you are driving, I would recommend leaving earlier than you think so that you can park and walk the mile to dinner.

MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
Mykonos Town

WHAT WE ORDERED:

To start, we ordered some pita bread and olives and I tried the local oysters.

For my main course, I had the grilled sea bass in yuzu sauce and Jarad had the seafood risotto. The sea bass was delicious!

For dessert, we had the ‘Ekmek kadayifi’ with cinnamon ice cream ‘Galaktoboureko’.

MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
MAMALOUKA MYKONOS
MAMALOUKA MYKONOS

Overall, we really enjoyed our dinner at Mamalouka! I highly recommend checking it out if your Greece adventure takes you to Mykonos!

Contact me to get started on your own custom Greek vacation!


 
FOODIE FRIDAY: THALASSINO AGERI IN CHANIA
 

Website: Thalassino Ageri Restaurant

Address: 35 Vivilaki str, Tabakaria, Halepa - Chania

Reservations required? Yes, via telephone only

Phone: +30 28210 51136

Would I recommend? Yes

Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant

We went to Thalassino for the sunset on our second night in Chania. Wow! When you round the corner while walking there, the view will take your breath away!

Highly recommend grabbing a reservation for during sunset. You will not regret it! Also, the ground is sandy so I would advise wearing comfortable shoes.

Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant

WHAT WE ORDERED:

For my drink, I had a local white wine that was similar to a Sauvignon Blanc. Greek wines are so yummy!

This is a local fish house so their menu changes daily based on what has been caught fresh! We started with some yummy homemade sourdough bread and the fresh grilled octopus. We also ordered a small thing of the fresh feta!

For my main course, I had the swordfish and Jarad had the fresh fish of the day. Charlie had her normal buttered noodles haha!

We didn’t order dessert here because we were so full!

Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant
Thalassino Ageri Restaurant

Overall, we really enjoyed our dinner at Thalassino Ageri! I highly recommend checking it out if your Greece adventure takes you to Chania in Crete!

Contact me to get started on your own custom Greek vacation!


 
SIFNOS RESTAURANT GUIDE
 
Sifnos

Araxovoli

Kamares

Tel: +302284032362

Tasteful fish tavern located right at the port of Sifnos.

 

Cantina

Seralia Beach

Tel: +302284035395

Built on the rock of Seralia beach, the old scenic village cantina maintains its traditional appearance and, today, contains the gastronomic treasure of the amazing chef Giorgos Samoilis. Cantina restaurant overlooks the crystal-clear waters and the Cycladic houses of the famous Kastro, offering unforgettable moments of relaxation and enjoyment. The hospitality is unique, and the food is absolutely amazing following a zero waste philosophy.

 

Bostani

Verina Astra Hotel, Poulati

Tel: +306981723727

Lying at the heart of a garden with fragrant herbs and plants, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the Bostani Bar & Restaurant is the perfect spot to savor fine Greek cuisine with a creative approach to the culinary heritage of Sifnos and the Aegean region. Get the opportunity to reconnect with simple, traditional tastes, yet elevated by high-level cooking techniques. Combine it with the summery and relaxed atmosphere of this unique location for the ultimate fine dining experience on the island.

 

Drakakis

Apollonia

Tel: +306972123571

Drakakis kafenion is a fixture on the Sifnos food scene. Located in the heart of Apollonia along the main paved lane, it is one of the island’s oldest coffee houses. Greek coffee, home-made sweets, and meze are served at the relaxed pace that underscores the old world aura and the absence of items like filter coffee or espresso from the coffee menu. Drakakis is a hangout for locals and visiting celebrities, a place where people stop by to catch their breath and experience the Greece of yesteryear.

 

Gerontopoulos

Apollonia

Tel: +302284031431

Since 1950, in the mornings, locals sit and chat over thick Greek coffee and traditional pastries.

 

Kelari

Kato Petali

Tel: +302284032268

A short walk from Apollonia just off the main road is this traditional, family-run taverna that’s been serving local Sifnian cuisine since 1988. Known for its meat dishes and hearty meals cooked in an old wood-fired oven, you can sit in the courtyard under vine-covered pergolas or inside surrounded by olive oil-processing artefacts. 

 

Lempesis Tavern (Chrysopigi)

Artemonas

Tel: +302284071295

Located right on the beach and under the trees, you can enjoy a bit variety of starters including the traditional dishes “mastello” and “rovithia”. The chef is considered by the locals as the young ‘Tselementes’.

 

Tsikali

Vathy

Tel: +302284071150

Right by the mole with the church, with tables on the sand only 3 meters away from the beach, you can enjoy amazing ‘gemista’ and other ‘mageirefta’ with self-produced meat and probably the best myzithra in Sifnos. 

 

Omega 3

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284072014

In a place that does not fill your eye, on the sandy beach of Platys Gialos the chef George Samoilis and Giannis Arvanitis curated the wine list created an oasis of fine multicultural fish food.

 

Mama Mia

Apollonia & Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284033086 

Chef Filippo with his son Pietro, create the best pizzas in the area!

 

Maiolica

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284071428

Maiòlica offers a light, refreshing and healthy food experience, just a few steps away from the sea. The menu is based on authentic, local ingredients from both Sifnos and around Greece. Each dish is prepared with knowledge, passion and balance, reflecting the diversity of culinary cultures from across the Mediterranean.

 

Nos

Nos Hotel & Villas, Faros

Tel: +302284028957

Inside the elegant NÓS Hotel & Villas in Faros, Sifnos you’ll find the homonymous restaurant with the kitchen's focus on local ingredients and familiar flavors of Greece. The extensive list includes fresh raw dishes, amazing appetizers, fresh salads, and well-cooked main courses with juicy meats and fresh fish and seafood. 

 

Limanaki

Faros

Tel: +302284071425

Every morning, George Kakakis’ fishing boat returns to the serene port of Faros and supplies his family restaurant, Limanaki Fish Tavern, with whatever bounty the sea had to offer. Tables here are on the water’s edge beside small, wooden boats. Before you order, ask to see the catch of the day. Look for the blue table covers and explore Faros’ three beaches while you’re there (Fassolou, Faros and Vlycho).

 

Rampagas

Apollonia

Tel: +302284032215

The owner/chef Vassilis Kallidis, created an interesting menu with new flavors based on the Greek Mediterranean cuisine and especially the Cycladic traditional gastronomic flavors. The restaurant combines the aura of the island with carefully selected Greek wine brands.

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?


Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!


 
CRETE RESTAURANT GUIDE - CHANIA
 
Crete

Chrisostomos
Defkalionos & Ikarou str., Chania
Tel: +302821057035

Traditional Cretan cuisine and flavors mainly from the land of Sfakia. Lambs and sheep from Sfakia, fresh dairy products, extra virgin Cretan olive oil, are some of the materials they use along with fresh baked bread in the wood oven. If you are to get into the Cretan “diet”, do not miss the “staka” - fresh hot butter to deep your bread in!

 

Ginger Concept
St Sarpaki 36, Chania,
Tel: +302821057590

Serving late breakfast and lunch. Great bruschettas, salads, tartare and carpaccio an ideal menu set for any diet. Vegeterian, veggan and gluten-free options to choose from. Or enjoy your cocktail, wine and dinner in the most charming square of the Old City. Busy but relaxing, with cool crowds and happy tunes. 

 

Salis
3 Akti Enoseon str., Old Harbor,
Tel: +302821043700

Mediterranean and Greek Cuisine. Salis offers a seasonal menu based on Crete’s local production. Menu mostly based in seafood so do not miss the shrimp spaghetti and fresh mussels! Environment is pretty hip and wine list offers a big variety of really good Greek wines and exclusive cretan varieties.

 

Thalassino Ageri
35, Vivilaki str., Tabakaria,
Tel: +302821051136

The most scenic restaurant in the city of Chania, right on the beachfront. Arriving at the restaurant you will feel you are part of a theatrical scene. Located at the Old Tambakaria, one of the most magical and beautiful places in Chania, which was known during the century for its tanneries. The sea view is magnificent, and the Mediterranean cuisine will tempt even the most discerning guests. Fresh fish, well-cooked octopus and squid, lobster with pasta, whitebait, unique sea urchin salad, bread and salads served amidst the sea breeze provide all those unique details that contribute to a gastronomic experience. Do not miss the fish soup!

 

Tamam
49 Zambeliou str., Old Harbor,
Tel: +302821052255

An old traditional Tavern with great food. The cuisine style of Tamam is unchangeable since the first pots put in the oven. Traditional Greek food with some Eastern oriented influences by the Ottoman cuisine and the broader Eastern Mediterranean region.

 

Maiami Art Brasserie
Mesologgiou 11, Akti Miaouli, Koum Kapi, Chania
Tel: +302821020000

In a simple art deco building of the 50s, artist and winemaker Alexandra Manousakis has now opened her new art studio and brasserie in Chania, Crete. Maiami is a welcome addition to the city’s gastronomic scene, serving homemade classics. Stone walls, mosaics, a wooden bar, an impressive green fireplace, and blue retro chairs make the warm Miami lounge a vibrant space, filled with Alexandra’s ceramic and paintings. 

 

Neoria Fish Tavern
Akti Enoseos, Chania Town,
Tel: +302821052255

Typical Cretan food in a great harborside location.

 

Ntounias Traditional Slow Food
Drakonas, Chania
Tel: +302821065083

At 600 meters of altitude, the traditional taverna is a center of gastronomy and slow food. The food is all home grown and home cooked and the owner and her husband very proudly share with you the process and the secrets of cooking. Accompany your food with homemade wine and the brilliant homemade raki. An authentic experience you don’t want to miss. Please call ahead to let them know you are coming as it is a small place. The food is good, but the magic of the evening is more the ambiance, view, and the friendliness of the hosts.

 

The well of the Turk
31 Kallinikou Sarpaki str., Splantzia,
Tel: +302821054547

An eclectic mix of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern Cuisine.

The menu is a cut above standard Greek cuisine taking influences from across the Mediterranean.

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?


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