A place that should be on everyone’s bucket list is the city of Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world, holding its status as a cultural centre for more than 3,000 years. The remainders of past civilizations are still in abundance – rising up on the hills of the Acropolis, scattered along the walks of the Plaka and preserved in scores of museums.
This cradle of western civilization and historical haven for philosophers (such as Plato and Aristotle) will give you a vacation that joins a vivid past with an exciting present.
Explore and enjoy Greece’s numerous ancient sights, the idyllic beaches of the islands, the towering mountain ranges, and the olive orchards in the south – there’s something for everyone.
Top Sites To See
The Acropolis
This eternal symbol of democracy, education and inspiration dominates the Athenian sky. At the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio are home to many wonderful neo-classical buildings, ancient temples, little Greek Orthodox churches, plus many trendy and traditional cafes and shops.
Beaches
Although the city is not directly on the beach, there are plenty of beaches nearby along the Athenian Coast. The most popular beaches are in the southern suburbs of Athens. There are beaches in the towns of Glyfada, Alimos, Phaliron, Kavouri , Voula, Vari, Varkiza and Vouliagmeni, and while a bit further away, but worth the trip, the northeast of the city is home to a few quiet beaches in the Marathon district, such as the Schinias beaches.
Mount Parnassus
From December to April, ski the slopes of Mount Parnassus at one of the two ski centres: Kellaria and Fterolakka, to add some high-thrill adventure in your Grecian journey.
Must Do
Remarkable ruins in Athens
You can find centuries upon centuries of historical remnants just by taking a stroll through this ancient city. Climb up the famed Acropolis for an eyeful of one of the most stunning pieces of ancient architecture you'll ever see, the Parthenon; from here you can also look over the centers of both the ancient and modern city. Just beneath the Acropolis is the Plaka, Athens' oldest district. Take a look around for a glimpse of monuments from essentially every era of the past 3,000 years; then pop into a taverna for a glass of wine and some traditional music.
Party central
The Greeks are a ‘carpe diem’ kind of crowd, living it up every night of the week. The laid-back Athenians roam the Plaka until late in the evening; eat a leisurely dinner; and then dance the night away in the city's many offerings of bars, lounges and nightclubs.
