What to pack for a city break in Athens

I first visited Athens last October to see my boyfriend play at Plisskën Festival at the Vrachon amphitheatre. I loved the buzzing restaurants, bars, museums and balmy nights, so plan to go back this August for another long weekend, after a trip to the island of Hydra. 

Miu Miu suede boat shoes 

Miuccia Prada sent models down the runway in these shoes for Miu Miu’s SS24 show – and kickstarted a boat-shoe revival; I intend to live in a pair all summer. The updated suede style will work just as well for walking up to the dusty Acropolis as for dinners and drinks at Pharaoh and Birdman, my favourite evening spots. £660, miumiu.com

Sunspel piqué polo shirt

Summer-holiday dressing is best when it’s simple and carefree. This elegant white polo shirt hits the mark, harking back to memories of primary school summer terms. I like to go a couple of sizes up for a relaxed slouchy fit. Its breathable cotton piqué is perfect for visiting the city’s galleries; the Stavros Niarchos Foundation is top of my list. £125, sunspel.com 

Nere Stori packing cubes

I can’t bear to check in a suitcase for fear of it getting lost. An extremely organised friend once introduced me to packing cells and now I never go without. Each zipped compartment compresses and keeps everything in order, which suits my hyper-organised Virgo brain. £19.99 for a pack of three, neretravel.co.uk

Stüssy x Tekla poplin-weave shorts

After years of living in denim shorts, these cotton-poplin shorts from the latest Stussy x Tekla collaboration are my go-tos. The unisex pair come in a light cream colour with thin stripes and will look equally great in the metropolis as on the beach. Extra points for the large back pockets and drawstring waist (much-needed after long Med lunches). £110, teklafabrics.com 

QMS Medicosmetics Deep Gentle Cleanser

A good cleanser is my favourite beauty staple and this one by QMS is excellent at removing the day’s grime before bed without drying out or irritating the skin – even sensitive skin like mine. I like to follow up with the Hydrating Boost Tonic Mist for extra care. £50 for 200ml, libertylondon.com 

Patou Le JP bag

One of the joys of a summer holiday is swapping out your big-city work bag for a smaller, hands-free option. This Patou bag in mixed canvas has a zip to keep essentials both safe and handy – one for taking with me to the Monastiraki flea market. €790, patou.com

Pleasing Big Lip HA Moisture Balm

I’m always on the lookout for a new lip balm and this one by Pleasing is on my radar. Colourless and fragrance-free, it contains natural oils and butters from fruit and flower extracts, making it extra-hydrating. Its chunky stick formula is very satisfying to use. £20, uk-eu.pleasing.com