Athens holidays and city breaks

History:

Step back in time as you explore this unique capital whose history spans 3,400 years. As you walk through the modern, vibrant city, monuments of the past civilisations are dotted all around you, such as Hadrian’s Arc, The Temple of Zeus and of course, the mighty Parthenon.

The Beach:

Athens is one of the few capital cities that offers a stunning golden coastline. So not only can you discover centuries of culture, taste amazing local cuisine and shop for fine leather goods and crafts on your Athens holiday, you can even hop on the tram and find yourself sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

Food:

Everyone knows the dishes the Greeks are famed for, skewer kebabs, moussaka and of course their national salad Choriatiki. But take an Athens city break and prepare to have your tastebuds awakened. With sun kissed produce and long honoured traditions, Greek food is amongst the best in the world. Sample the best of what Athens has to offer by taking one of the many food tours.

Island trips:

Take a break from the city and set sail for the islands of Agistri, Moni, Aegina, Poros and Hydra, all just a short ferry ride away. Dip your feet into the warm sea after exploring the cobbled streets and picturesque ports. If you fancy a little more of island life, sail on further to Rhodes, Mykonos or the quintessential Greek idyll of Santorini with its blue domed white houses and vibrant pink foliage.

The districts:

If leisurely exploring shops offering stunning local crafts, quality goods and souvenirs then an Athens break is for you. Take a stroll through the must-see neighbourhood of Plaka right at the base of the Acropolis. Find your feet in the bustling Monastiraki Square and from there discover the bohemian Psyri, trendy Thissio and cool Gazi areas.

The Acropolis:

An absolute must for anyone on an Athens holiday package is a walk up the Acropolis, the ancient highest city. Marvel at the archaeological and historic wonders, The Parthenon and the Temple of Athena but be sure to book your tickets to avoid a long wait in the unshaded sun. Visit the Acropolis Museum before you admire the ancient site so you can understand its cultural significance even more.

Ancient Agora:

Explore the former heart of Athens where merchants sold their wares, politicians governed and townsfolk gathered. The highlight still standing amongst the ruins is the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in Greece.

Roman Forum:

Step forward in time to when the Romans ruled Athens where the remains of The Tower of the Winds and the Gate of Athena are still standing. While there is a fee to walk the ancient pathways and foundations, the first Sunday of every month is free to visitors.

Panathenaic Stadium:

Test your athletic ability with a run around this world’s only fully marble stadium, built for the Panathenaic Games in 400 BC, the precursor to our modern Olympic Games and still the place from which all Olympic flames are lit are carried to their destinations.

National Archaeology Museum:

Indulge your inner history buff with a tour of one of the world’s most significant museums. This treasure trove contains artifacts from the Neolithic era all the way through to the Hellenic period and is a tangible reminder of the significance of ancient Athens to the modern world.

Lycabettus Hill:

Hike the 277 metres or take the funicular to the highest point in Central Athens where you can take in the stunning view of the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hellenic Parliament on Syntagma Square and the Acropolis.

Pies:

Ancient Athenians were famed for their filo pastry pies and the tradition is still going strong in modern day Athens. Formed by layer upon layer of thin pastry, the pies can have a variety of fillings such as meat, vegetables and the local favourite of spinach and feta cheese called Spanakopita.

Loukoumades:

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these Greek doughnuts soaked in warm syrup and served with whatever other topping takes your fancy. Pair them with a strong traditional Greek coffee, made in pots called Briki that are heated in hot sand.

Saganaki:

This simple dish of a fried block of cheese tastes a lot better than it sounds but if you fancy a variation on the tradition, try the feta wrapped in filo and drizzled with warm honey.

Souvlaki:

A fast-food favourite of the Athenians, these spit roasted meat stuffed pittas or gyros are available all over the city, from street vendors to upscale restaurants.

Dolmades:

These vine leaves stuffed with meat, rice and vegetables are the perfect accompaniment to your traditional moussaka or lamb kebab skewer with tzatziki dip.

Metro:

The most popular mode of transport, the Metro is cheap and reliable. The Acropolis has its own stop and it serves all the way from the airport to the port of Piraeus.

Tram:

Take the tram from the city centre along the coast and stop off at Paralia Glyfadas for some sunbathing and swimming.

On Foot:

The best way to explore Athens is on your own steam. All of the cultural attractions are in close proximity and walking is the perfect way to discover those special shops and restaurants.