Under $100: Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, has been the heart of Greek life and culture for some 4,000 years. Any visitor should try to gain an appreciation of the city’s timeless contributions to modern society born here, as well as some of the more contemporary aspects of this important city.

Start your day with breakfast pastries at one of the many street-side bakeries strewn throughout central Athens. It’s generally easy to find one close to your hotel, and coffee and a few bites will only set you back about $7.

The Acropolis © Thecriss | Dreamstime

Next, get walking. You can explore central Athens in a day, taking in sites like the Acropolis, with the famous Parthenon, a must-see for any visitor. Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll pay about $6 to $12 to enter the site. Tack on a visit to the Acropolis museum, free in the offseason and only $1 in summer.

Panathenaic Stadium © Lefpap | Dreamstime

Grab lunch at any number of worthwhile cafes below the Acropolis, where you should do as the Greeks do: Order several small, sharing plates, some wine and linger awhile. You’ll plunk down about $20 per person or so, depending on where you eat.

Walk through the vibrant Plaka neighborhood, where shops sell souvenirs, art and clothing. If you have time, visit the National Archaeological Museum for about $3 in the off season and $7 during peak times. And last, you’ve got about $60 left for dinner, which will go far in Athens.

National Archaeological Museum © Barbar1 | Dreamstime