Athens

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece and the heart of the Attica region. One of the world's oldest cities, it has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years and is widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy and the Olympic Games. Today the city combines ancient landmarks with a lively modern urban culture.

The city's defining sight is the Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon, which rises above the historic centre. Nearby, the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the National Archaeological Museum trace Greece's long history. Neoclassical buildings from the 19th century stand alongside Byzantine, Ottoman and contemporary architecture.

Neighbourhoods such as Plaka, Monastiraki, Psiri, Koukaki and Kolonaki each have a distinct character, from narrow streets and traditional tavernas to designer shopping, street art and nightlife. The National Garden, Lycabettus Hill and the Athens Riviera along the Saronic Gulf offer green space and coastal escapes close to the centre.

Athens is also Greece's political, economic and transport hub, with a growing start-up and technology scene, major conferences and the Port of Piraeus nearby. The food scene ranges from traditional tavernas and street food to modern Greek restaurants, and the city's event calendar runs throughout the year.

For both leisure and business travellers, Athens serves as a gateway to the Greek islands and a destination in its own right, combining ancient heritage, contemporary culture and convenient connections across Greece and the eastern Mediterranean.