The past is always present on Athens holidays, where ancient history excitingly blends with modern living. Incredible remnants of civilizations past and landscape straight out of legend coexist perfectly with contemporary architecture and fashionable districts. Keep an eye out for the Acropolis, which presides over Athens and can be seen from most of the city; get the cable car up to Lycabettus Hill for sweeping urban vistas; visit the temple of Poseidon if you’re a fan of Greek myths; catch a film at a pop-up, open-air cinema… You’ll never be short of things to see on a city break in the capital of Greece, that’s for sure.
Beaches
Greek beaches set the standard for what good beaches should be. Although Athens is more well-known for its attractions that its sandy stretches, this seaside city is no different to the rest of Greece when it comes to sun, sea and sand. Head to Voula Beach for family-friendly shallow water and a relaxed feel. There’s also Porto Rafti, a beach that’s really popular with Athenian locals. The pebbly beach is great for restaurants and bars, and is also the perfect spot for a swim. Prefer somewhere all singing and all dancing? For a small fee you can visit Beach Club Alimos for stunning blue sea and white sand, with great facilities for all ages.
Food & drink
What’s a city break without trying the local delicacies? Greek salad, moussaka, souvlaki… Athens has it all, and then some. Make sure you visit an authentic taverna or two for a meal and a tipple. Breakfast isn’t really the most important meal of the day here – there’s an old saying that breakfast in Greece is just a cigarette and a coffee. That doesn’t sound very appetising to us, so we’d recommend looking out for a bakery selling pastry or fresh bread to start the day off right. Café culture is alive and well in Athens, and evening meals tend to be taken late – sometimes starting at 10pm!
Culture
The culture of an Athens city break is what really draws people in. How could it not, when there’s so much history surrounding you? Ancient Greek ruins and relics are everywhere you look, but this city is anything but stuffy. This is a place where hipster cafes are set next to buildings from the 9th century BC. Homer, Plato and Pythagoras are just some of Athens’ famous residents of the past. The Olympic Games and the Athens Marathon are also huge parts of the sporting culture here too.
Nightlife
Looking for a bar to blow your mind? Try the rooftop terrace of A For Athens. With sweeping views to the Acropolis and a great atmosphere, there’s no better place to get the night going. Got soul? Get yourself over to CV Distiller. This laid-back cocktail bar has an amazing selection of rums and whiskeys, all served to a funky jazz soundtrack. Our pick of the nightclubs might be called Cinderella, but there’s no way you’ll be home before midnight. A venue that’s been described as the party hub of Athens, you’ll be able to dance to your heart’s content here.
Important information
Flight Time: 4hrsTime Difference: GMT +2hrsCurrency: EuroOfficial Language: Greek
Vaccinations
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
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Weather in Athens
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Generally, the weather in Greece follows a typically lovely Mediterranean pattern with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Athens holidays follow this sunny pattern perfectly, with temperatures reaching averages of 29°C in July and August. Visit outside of peak season in May, June, September or October for less crowds and temperatures that still reach an average of 20°C or higher.