Destinations / City Breaks / Athens
The capital of Greece and its largest city, Athens is thought to be one of the world's oldest cities.
Proudly claiming the seat of ancient civilisation and antiquity, Athens has literally been the lap of the Gods! With a history dating back thousands of years, the city is credited with being the birthplace of democracy. A centre of arts, learning and philosophy, this was the home of Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum. Historical marvels like the Acropolis (right in the city centre) and Parthenon are testament to the city's classical past.
Today, architectural beauties include Syntagma Square (Constitution Square, seat of Government), Monastiraki Square, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, the Roman Agora, the Zappeion and medieval Daphni Monastery must be visited. Having no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Acropolis and Daphni Monastery), Athens has endless Roman and Byzantine monuments, Ottoman remains and a rich tapestry of stunning Orthodox monasteries dotted throughout the city. The tiny meandering streets of the old Plaka district with its lively tourist market are a delight to wander through and come alive at night with busy tavernas selling delicious souvlaki and moussaka.
Located in the Attica region, Athens has a large and busy commercial port, Piraeus, which is also the major ferry terminal for visiting the vast number of beautiful islands which lie scattered in the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. For the casual sightseer, history buff or plain pleasure seeker, Athens is an absolutely gorgeous city break destination and a true world treasure.
Please Note: A government tax may be payable on arrival in a city destination – it cannot be prepaid in advance. This is a nominal charge that is subject to change.
