With the majestic Acropolis looming large over the city below, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Athens is, quite literally, a city of the past. One of, if not the most important places in the development of Western Civilisation, the city-state was a centre for the arts, learning and philosophy. Indeed many of today’s methodical approaches in all forms of life are derived from Athens’ classic period. Not much for modern Athens to live up to then! The city has moved with the times however, and undergone extensive urban regeneration in recent years. On holidays in Athens you can’t expect not to be reminded of the city’s history, but you may be surprised to find a buzzing metropolis that’s as central to Greece as it was at the peak of its powers. The home of the Olympics, the Parthenon, Plato and Socrates; cheap Athens holidays guarantee to mesmerise you with history, culture and an atmosphere unlike any other.
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Towering above the city of Athens, the peerless Acropolis of Athens is one of the most important and iconic monuments on Earth. Containing a cluster of ancient ruins, a visit to the Acropolis is an absolute must if you find yourself in Greece’s capital city. The most notable building on the monolith is The Parthenon. Completed in 432 BC and dedicated to the goddess Athena, the image of The Parthenon’s majestic white columns and inexplicably perfect proportions is synonymous with Greece and is considered one of, if not the planet’s most culturally significant structures.
Gazi is a neighbourhood that offers what’s quite simply the best night out in Athens. There’s a vibrant party atmosphere every day of the week and a varied selection of bars to suit all tastes and budgets. If you’re feeling hungry there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat, whether you want to sit down and savour or munch on the go. The former Athens gas-works is also very accommodating to gay and lesbian revellers, and boasts a number of gay-only bars. Psiri was once the recommended nightspot, and is definitely still worth a visit, but it’s Gazi that is the go to place for a nice out on your cheap Athens holidys.
Athens was the birthplace of the Olympic Games and when it was decided to resurrect them as an international tournament in the 19th Century, the committee was unanimous in selecting Athens as the location for the spectacle. Panathenaic Stadium was the historical location of the games and was refurbished for a second time (the first refurbishment occurred in 329 BC) ready for the 1896 Olympiad. Made completely from white marble, the stadium even hosted events during the 2004 games. A historically significant marvel of architecture, Panathenaic Stadium is a must visit for anyone whether they’re mad-keen on or apathetic to athletics.
An authentic and lively trip, Athens’ Central Market is a great place to go and experience the day to day hustle and bustle of Athenians. The Market specialises in Meat, Fish, Fruit and Vegetables and will make you wish that your Greece hotel really had a cooker. The atmosphere in the market is great and as lively as you’ll find anywhere in the city regardless of the time. You’ll also be impressed with the cleanliness of the place, so there’s no need to worry about getting anything undesirable staining your shoes. Even if food isn’t your thing it’s worth a visit; to say you have and because of the location, as there’s plenty more to do outside of its 19th Century walls.
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National Garden of Athens
A beautiful spot of greenery within the city to enjoy the warm Greece weather, Athens’ National Garden is a great place to have a walk in the city. The 38 acre site is filled with gorgeous verdant scenery, elegant topiary, exotic plant life and antiquities. There are plenty of benches and places to set down a picnic mat and enjoy the sunshine you’ll undoubtedly be enjoying in the Greek capital. If you’ve got kids in tow there’s plenty to keep them entertained as well, such as a duck pond, zoo and playground. What’s more, the National Garden is free to visit, making it a great way to spend time immersing yourself in Athens, without having to worry about your funds.
Essential info
Currency: Euro
Language: Greek
Visa: N/A
Vaccinations: N/A
Dress code: N/A
Important numbers: Embassy: 020 7313 5609, Tourist Office: 020 7495 9300
Other info: N/A