ATHENS CITY BREAK

ATHENS

The Greek capital has some of the most iconic architecture in the world and nothing betters taking in a view of the city from the Acropolis. Children and adults alike will be amazed at how a wander through Athens’ streets can bring the history books to life; take in Pericles’ Parthenon with the adjacent Temple of Athena Nike and don’t miss the colossal Theatre of Dionysus. With its warm climate, an Athens city break is perfect at any time of year, though it is particularly wonderful in the milder days of spring and autumn.

SIGHTS

Visitors to Athens will discover immediately that the best way to see the sights of the city is to go on foot. Many of the city’s most popular attractions are located within a comfortable walking distance from each other.

Learn about the enthralling history of Athens with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum and walk around the Panathenaic Stadium which dates as far back as 330BCE and was where the first modern Olympic Games was held 1896. Not forgetting the stunning Acropolis which shouldn’t be missed.

BEACHES

Take time out from the city and admire the nearby enchantments of the Greek coastline. Athens has some stunning beaches locally with sparkling blue waters and tranquil sands. If you’re looking for a calm and quiet beach visit try the private sands found to the south-east of Athens in Glyfada.

To the north-east of Athens the beaches are more alive with locals and tourist, making them great if you want to be part of the buzzing holiday atmosphere! The best way to discover the beaches surrounding Athens is to hop on a bus and get off when you see a beach that takes your fancy.

EXPERIENCE

After taking in the ancient charms of Anthens, nearby neighbourhoods will offer you a delightful traditional Greek experience. Plaka is home to many delightful tavernas, cafes and restaurants alongside some beautiful Greek churches.

For some up-market Greek cuisine, try the area of Kolonaki which also houses some incredible boutiques and popular nightspots.

TOP 7 THINGS TO VISIT IN ATHENS

1. The Parthenon - Even if you don't care about archaeology or the fact that if it were not for the ancient Greeks you might be living in a far less civilized way, you can't come to Athens and not visit the Acropolis and see the Parthenon.
2. The National Archaeological Museum - You won't find a better collection of ancient Greek sculpture, jewelery, pottery, and the Antikythera Device, a 2000 year old computer found in the shipwreck off the island of Antikithera will have you wondering just how advanced those ancient Greeks actually were.
3. The Agora-Athens Central Market - No matter how you feel about fish, meat and vegetables you won't find a more lively place than the Central market on Athinas Street.
4. Mount Lycabettus - Maybe you took one look at this green mountain rising out of the center of Athens and said to yourself "I hope there is nothing important up there because I really don't feel like climbing a mountain". There is something important up there. An amazing view.
5. The Plaka - A walk through the oldest neighborhood in Athens is a must and one of the most plesaureable activities especially in the early evening.
6. Psiri - With the up and coming areas like Gazi getting more popular we should not overlook Psiri with its endless small streets of cafes, ouzeries, restaurants, bars, clubs, theatresand galleries, all within a minute's walk from Athinas and Ermou streets or Monastiraki square.
7. The Temple Of Poseidon at Sounion - On a hill overlooking the sea at the very tip of the Attiki Peninsula on a spot that could not be more perfect for an ancient site of worship is the Temple of Poseidon, God of the Sea, which boasts not only the carved grafitti of Lord Byron but the best sunsets after Santorini.

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