When it comes to escaping the towering skylines of New York City, few places fire the imagination like Europe. How to choose? With Paris and its irresistible magic or Athens and its deep, historic layers, the choice is far from easy. The two cities seem to offer completely different experiences — but both are unforgettable.
When it comes to escaping the towering skylines of New York City, few places fire the imagination like Europe. How to choose? With Paris and its irresistible magic or Athens and its deep, historic layers, the choice is far from easy.
The two cities seem to offer completely different experiences — but both are unforgettable. Whether your vision of travel is exploring the sunny streets, touring ancient ruins, or dining in the world’s best restaurants, all of that and more becomes possible when you fly to Paris from New York or take a plane from New York to Athens.
Paris: Romance and Art Around Every Corner
Paris is a city of dreams. You don’t need us to tell you it’s a city of art, food, and charm like no place on earth. Imagine sipping espresso at a cozy café beside the Seine. Every street in the city is more like a postcard than the last.
When you first land, you’ll know this is different. The streets are a bit slower, and a bit happier because there’s nothing better than life in Paris. Everything about it is meant to be savored by you. Flaky, buttery croissants in the morning to the golden sunsets glinting off the Eiffel Tower.
If you’re a history buff, you’re in luck. The Louvre is home to works of art from millennia, including the ever-mysterious Mona Lisa. But it’s not all just paintings in Paris. The best way to get to know the city is to get lost. Wind through the small streets of Montmartre or take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Élysées.
Fashion lovers can find the best of the best in Paris. Shops boast the newest trends and traditional patisseries offer up macarons and éclairs. Every nook of Paris is there to tempt and amaze.
Athens: A Journey Through Time
If Paris is the city of love, Athens is a city of stories. Walk in the footsteps of a thousand tales. Towering against the unforgettably blue Greek sky is the Acropolis. Look a little closer at Plaka’s narrow streets and you’ll find yourself in the cradle of Western civilization. It’s easy to imagine the philosophers who once walked through their streets, lost in deep thought. Amongst ancient ruins and temples and Acropolis stones, every step of Athens reveals the splendor of Greece.
Athens is far from just a page in a history book. In fact, it feels like barely a day has gone past. Monastiraki and Psiri neighborhoods fill with the sounds of traditional Greek music as the sun dips below the horizon.
Athens food is an adventure all on its own. Try the salty crumbles of feta, the smoke of a grilled meat dinner, or the rich sweet taste of a baklava for dessert. Wander the journey of a culture that takes pride in the past but doesn’t hesitate to live in the present.
Tips for Making the Most of Your European Adventure
Whether in France or Greece, there are a couple of travel advice tricks to get the most out of your vacation. In terms of weather, spring and fall are pretty similar in Paris. They are both pretty mild, but summer can get a little bit warm.
In Athens, however, it gets really hot in the summer. Be sure to pack light clothing. Secondly, you will want to make sure you have shoes you can rely on. The best way to see both Paris and Athens is on foot.
Do not be afraid to eat as the locals. In Paris, dining is not a quick stop-and-go. Meals are usually accompanied by a glass of wine if you choose, and be sure not to skip out on dessert. You will also want to make sure you learn a little bit of the local language.
A simple bonjour or bonsoir can make all the difference. Either way, your belly will certainly thank you. In Athens, get ready to graze your way through town. Customers are often encouraged to order multiple “mezes” or small plates to share. Also, try to learn a little bit of the local language. This can make a world of difference.
Choosing Your European Destination
If you’re more in it for relaxation, luxury, and art, Paris is more your speed. If you’d like to be tested with history, the oldest food traditions in the world, and so much depth and age that you can run right back to the hotel pool quickly, pick Athens. The best part? They’re only a country apart and separated by a very reasonable flight.
Regardless of whether you’d rather walk through art in the streets of Paris or through history and ancient feats in Athens, Europe is within reach, no matter what your goal!
Source: Baddiehun
