Athens City Breaks 2011

Athens went through a rejuvenation in preparation for the Olympic Games in 2004 and is now a fresh and vibrant city with a sparkling new metro system. However, it's Athens's past that most people come to see and when confronted with the city's magnificent antiquities, it's easy to see why.

Up until recently, the modern part of Athens wasn't very tourist friendly. Pockets of neighborhoods warranted a visit, but on the whole, the urban chaos that was the city didn't really have much going for it. All that changed as previously said with the awarding of the 2004 Olympic Games to Athens. In addition to the metro, a new tram system, new roads, an airport and pedestrianisation have all contributed to the general buzz and exciting atmosphere that permeates the streets today.

Ancient Sites

Athens boasts a treasure trove of antiquities. Ottoman, Byzantium and of course Ancient Greek heritage sites are dotted throughout the city and are savoured by multitudes of tourists. In high season, these sites can be extremely busy so it is advised to try and visit early in the morning if possible when the crowds will be thinner and the temperature more agreeable.

Districts of Athens

The traditional centre of Athens, the Plaka district is full of authentic tavernas, bustling shops and vibrant cafes. Quaint Anafiotika is situated close to Plaka and is also worth a visit. The upmarket district of Athens is the Kolonaki area. This part of the city contains numerous expensive shops, expensive restaurants and fancy coffee shops. Even if you can't afford the prices in this part of the city, it's a pleasant area for an afternoon or evening stroll. If it's night life you're after, the Psiri district has a variety of bars and clubs catering for everything from cool jazz to traditional Greek entertainment. This is can be one of the most pleasant places in Athens to sit on a pavement cafe watching the world go by.

The Parthenon and Acropolis

Of course no visit to Athens would be complete without a visit to the Parthenon on the Acropolis rock. It's a truly stunning site close up and really lives up to the hype. Visit at night to see the Parthenon at it's most glorious floodlit best. Also not to be missed are the Theatre of Dionyssus (the oldest theatre in Greece) and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Acropols Museum is also an interesting place to visit if you have the time.

In summary, there has probably never been a better time to visit Athens for your holiday. The ancient sites are as magnificent as ever and modern Athens is now a vibrant and welcoming city to visit. So what are you waiting for? Get to Greece!

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