One of the most historic cities in the world and the perfect place for food, wine, culture, action and sun, holidays to Athens are packed full of things to do. Located to the south-east of Greece and boasting the perfect combination of old and new, a 2019 city break in Athens is guaranteed to awe. Wander through the ancient streets, soaking up the history of legends past, hire a car and explore the country or simply indulge in shopping, traditional Greek food and friendly bars. If you prefer to hit the beach there are plenty of stretches of soft golden sands nearby, ideal for unwinding on your well-deserved break. With incredible holiday deals on some stunning hotels and villas, as well as cheap flight and cheap holiday options, there is no reason not to book a holiday to sunny Athens in 2019.
Holidays to Athens wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its many historic sites. The city is dotted with historic buildings, churches and museums and a visit to the Acropolis is a must! Find a friendly local guide and learn the mysteries of these ancient sites or simply wander around and find out for yourself. Shopping is another fantastic draw of Athens, with narrow winding streets filled with boutiques, art galleries and markets. In particular, the historic neighbourhood of Plaka is a must for a stunning blend of cobbled old-world village style, in the shadow of the Acropolis, and unique boutique retail. If you prefer something more active hike into the nearby hills, or immerse yourself in some culture and see a play at one of the many iconic theatres in the city. And if you feel it’s time for some rest and relaxation head to the beach, nearby Glyfada is a favourite, or book yourself into one of the city’s many spas and try out a traditional Greek hammam.
The capital city of Greece, Athens is one of the best places for foodies. Boasting some of the best Greek food in the world, all of the locals are proud of their food and culture and can’t wait to serve you some of their favourites. Whether you’re looking to splash out on incredible sea views and delicious Greek mezzes, fresh seafood, international options and local wines, or you prefer the cheap eats you’re guaranteed to find your favourite restaurant here. Succulent meats such as kebabs, creamy dips, warm breads and some of the freshest seafood and produce await you in this cosmopolitan city. And if you fancy yourself as a wine buff or just want to find out more there are plenty of wine bars and tours to try in Athens. In a city of such exquisite taste, the hotels have really upped their game in order to compete and you can get some fantastic meals in your accommodation. Best of all, in an all inclusive hotel, many set in fantastic locations, you can enjoy your ouzo free of charge.
Family holidays to Athens are packed full of adventure, whether you want to explore the history or take advantage of the many activities on offer here. Take the whole family to one of the nearby beaches and watch the little ones splash in the warm, calming waves of the ocean. There are plenty of places to try water sports as well, or you could take a day trip which encompasses historic artefacts, The National Garden by Syntagma Square, The Attica Zoological Park, museums and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. If you prefer to stick to the water the whole family will enjoy a boat trip, spending the day exploring the many pretty coves dotted around the coast. Alternatively, there are puppet shows, the Hellenic Children’s Museum, go-karting, and a water park and Allou! fun park all within easy driving distance of the city.
Getting into the outdoors when on holidays to Athens is easy. The area is almost guaranteed to be filled with bright sunshine, and some of the best ways to explore the ancient sites, ruins and pretty countryside are on foot or by bicycle. Thrill-seekers can go on a caving adventure in the Parnitha National Park, while above ground you can rent a mountain bike and cycle up into the hills, or hop on a walking tour and listen to the experts talk you through the rich stories of the area. If you’re feeling really active there are also plenty of beaches nearby where you can try out water sports such as sailing and windsurfing or even jet skiing.
Holidays to Athens have become famous for the fantastic historical landmarks and culture, leaving the nearby stunning beaches tranquil and just waiting for a day of sunbathing. Families will enjoy the soft golden sands, perfect for sandcastles, and warm clear waters, perfect for paddling, while couples will find plenty of places to enjoy a quiet day. If you prefer to stay active while at the beach you won’t run out of things to do. Schinias Beach is around an hour away by car, depending on where you’re staying, and offers windsurfing, sailing, jet skiing and many other water sports. In the southern suburbs, Glyfada beach is a golden sanded haunt of the rich and famous while picturesque Vouliagmeni is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Athens is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe, leaving you to follow the night and see where it takes you. Whether you prefer a cosy wine bar or taverna chatting with the locals and trying out local and international favourites, or you simply want to find an English pub and enjoy a pint, there’s something for you here. Those wanting to dance the night away until the early hours won’t be disappointed either. Grab your dancing shoes and hit one of the many mega clubs for high energy hits, golden oldies or pumping house music. For neon nights the best neighbourhoods include buzzing Kolonaki, chic Glyfada, vibrant Kifissia, Psiri, and Thision. When it comes to after-dark entertainment in Athens, we challenge you to be bored.
Couples holidays to Athens are ideal if you love wandering through the historic streets, marvelling at an ancient relic on almost every corner. Spend the day on a walking tour or make your own itinerary, stopping off in one of the many street-side cafés for a spot of people watching when it gets too hot. Wander through the age-old cobbled roads of Plaka, and treat your other half to something shiny from one of the boutique jewellery stores. If you prefer to explore further afield there are boat trips which leave every day and can take you around the pretty coves and fishing villages of the area. And for the ultimate in relaxation why not head to one of the spas and try a couple’s massage as well as other treatments?
It’s hard to find a city with more culture than Athens. Almost every street is home to its own ancient relic and rich stories of the past. And whether you choose a walking tour, Segway tour, cycling tour or just create your own itinerary there is no wrong way to see the city. The Acropolis Museum will get you started with an insight into ancient Greece, while the Acropolis itself, from the Parthenon at its’ peak to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, is a must. To get to grips with just how incredible this city is head to the top of Mount Lycabettus and see it with your own eyes. Alternatively, for a more modern taste of Greek culture there are plenty of films to enjoy at the Herod Atticus Odeon.