Athens

It won’t take long in the ancient city of Athens to understand why it has captivated so many before you. With a history as long and convoluted as the Acropolis is high, discover the myths and legends in their natural habitat, and enjoy the seamless mix of ancient and modern as you travel the city.

Syntagma Square in the centre of Athens is an excellent starting point. Despite its moniker as one of the world’s oldest cities, the seat of modern day Greece is well worth exploration too. Enterprising locals offer a plethora of experiences suitable for all tastes, or you can hire a car to discover further afield. Head to the postcard perfect coastal town of Vouliagmeni, perhaps catching a glimpse of the stunning Greek Islands en route. Delphi should certainly be on your list – once the centre of the ancient world, it offers a plethora of attractions and a vibrant gastronomic scene.

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What you’ll love most about Athens

• Explore the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of ancient Greece, with its stunning Parthenon temple, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and Temple of Athena Nike, offering panoramic views of Athens and a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture
• Wander through the charming streets of Plaka, Athens’ oldest district, with its neoclassical buildings, labyrinthine alleys, and vibrant atmosphere filled with tavernas, cafes, shops, and street performers, perfect for leisurely strolls and souvenir shopping
• Discover the ancient Agora of Athens, the political and commercial heart of ancient Athens, with its ruins of temples, stoas, and the iconic Hephaestus temple, as well as the Agora Museum and the Stoa of Attalos, providing insights into daily life in ancient Greece
• Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, one of the world’s greatest museums, with its vast collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, jewellery, and treasures from the Mycenaean, Minoan, and Cycladic civilisations, as well as the Antikythera mechanism and the Mask of Agamemnon
• Climb to the top of Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in Athens, for panoramic views of the city, the Acropolis, and the Aegean Sea, as well as a scenic walk through pine forests, a chapel, and a cable car ride for those who prefer a more leisurely ascent
• Experience the lively atmosphere of Monastiraki, a vibrant neighborhood known for its flea market, antique shops, and bustling square, where you can find a mix of old and new, traditional and modern, and sample street food, souvlaki, and Greek delicacies while soaking up the sights and sounds of Athens