Athens

ATHENS is the capital of Greece with 3.192.606 inhabitants located on the Attica peninsula. It is the country’s financial, political, cultural and industrial centre. Being one of the oldest cities in the world it is not surprising that the city is extremely rich in cultural and historic heritage.

The city’s climate is very dry. However, the rain falls during the winter months, between mid-October and mid-April, usually as short and heavy showers. Summers are extremely hot with heat waves common during July and August reaching temperatures over 40°C. Spring and autumn are considered to be deal seasons for sightseeing and for all kinds of outdoor activities. Average temperature in January is 9.4°C and 27.1°C in July. The average annual insulation is 2919 hours.

Athens is built around and dominated by the Acropolis and the pinnacled peak of Mount. Lycabettus, which the goddess Athena is said to have dropped from the heaven to defend the city. All the most celebrated myths of ancient Athens, its greatest religious festivals and earliest cults in the city's history are all connected to this sacred place. The entrance to the Acropolis is the Propylea (designed by Mnesycles). On the southeast edge of Acropolis is the temple of Athena Nike which was built from 426 to 421 BC. The world re-known Parthenon is situated on the highest part of the Acropolis and was built between 447 and 438 BC as the part of the greater Periklean building project. It is also known the cradle of the modern democracy.

Athens and Attica peninsula also have several other important archaeological monuments. Odeion of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysios together with Stoa of Eumenes (spacious promenade for visitors to the theatres and temples) form a large archaeological complex on the south side of Acropolis. Olymbion or the Temple of Zeus is another monument worth visiting. A must while visiting Athens are also Roman Market, Panathinaiko Stadium or Kallimarmaro (built of white marble) and The Temple of Poseidon in Sounio.

In the capital you also have the chance to admire imposing neoclassic buildings, true ornaments of the city such as The Greek Parliament, Athens Academy and University, etc). You should also not miss the museums hosting unique treasures of our cultural inheritance such as Archaeological Museum, Military Museum, Byzantine Museum and many others.

The capital is also famous its nightlife when it changes its calm face from the day. The options for entertainment are enormous. At the most famous "bouzoukia", traditional Greek clubs, you will experience the best in live entertainment. They can be found around Plaka, up Syngrou Avenue or out at the beach areas along Possidonos avenue. On the other hand, there are the numerous theaters all around Athens, which offer a different type of entertainment. Athens is a divine city that will enchant you.

Athens is well connected by air with many European and non-European cities. The international airport is located 33 km from the city centre. The Port of Athens, Piraeurs, offers domestic and international ferry and ship lines.