Athens

Its climate delivers a mixture of Mediterranean heat and pleasant autumns with mild winters. July is the time when temperatures are at their hottest estimating around 31 degrees and January is the coolest month ranging between 11 and 20 degrees. Athens has some of the most beautiful historic picturesque places to visit; here are just a few of the most popular:

• National Archaeological museum
• Acropolis (the sacred rock)
• Mount Lycabettus (the highest spot in Athens)
• The agora (centre of ancient Athens)
• The plaka (good food in a fun setting and shopping)
• The Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s arch (both located between national gardens)
• Patherion
• Flisvos Marina (stunning views)
• Acropolis Museum
• Syntagma square
• Temple of olympian zeus
• Erechtheum
• Piraeus (a beautiful port)

Athens has many places where you can book tours to all of the above places. You can also book half day, 2, 3 and 4 day tours. Walking and biking tours are also a popular way of seeing Athens, as are the hop on Hop off buses, and Athens super Saver tours. Some of the daily tours include Acropolis walking tour, city highlights, and food tours, experiencing local cuisine freshly cooked by local people. For prices please see individual companies. If tours are not for you then car hire is hugely popular. Prices vary according to each company, vehicle and the time of year. For example March for two weeks estimates at 165 Euros July for two weeks estimates at 428 Euros October for two weeks estimates at 222 Euros, these prices are only a guide. Most international airports will fly to Athens, although some flights do include a stop which will of course lengthen the flight. Flight prices will vary depending on time of year. For example: March for two weeks estimates at 165 Euros one way per person. July for two weeks estimates at 142 Euros one way per person. October for two weeks estimates 100 Euros one way per person.

Transports

Airport transfers from Athens airport to the centre of Athens in August estimates at 38 Euros per car for 4 people. Accommodation in Athens. This depends entirely on your budget, whether you are looking for a family break, or a romantic holiday for two, or a fun packed energetic experience. Athens can accommodate you. There are of course many different types of accommodation you can choose from whether it be a self contained apartment, full or half board hotels, Bed and Breakfast, or a hostel. Of course all of the above will again vary greatly in price, here are a few examples: Apartments for two weeks in March estimate around 500 Euros July for two weeks estimate around 750 Euros October for two weeks estimates around 700 Euros These are based on 2 people sharing a room. Hotels have the biggest variation in prices depending on the area, central or a little out of the centre, whether it’s near to main attractions, how many stars each individual hotel rates, whether its full board, half board, etc There are also places that provide working holiday experiences which provide free accommodation in exchange for work, this is another option and more popular with the younger generation but all ages and cultures are welcomed. Another period during the year where prices may be higher is during the times that a feast is celebrated in Athens. All these feasts dates can be found by doing your own research. These are a lot of fun, and a chance to see another side of the Greek culture. Many include national costumes, parades, fireworks, Music, arts, cultural activities, kite flying and usually have local cuisine sold on stalls. This is a time when you really get to enjoy the Greek hospitality at its best.

As with any Mediterranean culture there will always be a huge variety of places to eat and drink. From cafes to bars, hotels and restaurants, beach side take always and many traditional Greek food places to choose from. Some traditional Greek dishes are: Keftedes – meatballs Mousaka – made from eggplant Stifado – stew of Lamb, Octopus or rabbit Pastitsio – very similar to Lasagne And great selections of Greek salads are among just a few to choose from. Athens is one of the most beautiful cities with its history, culture, art, beautiful weather and clear blue sea, delicious cuisine and native Greek hospitality, all the ingredients for a great holiday at any time of the year.