The guide for the greatest live of your life.
www.athensattica.com
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Athens Attica Region Guide
Athens Attica Region Guide
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1 Athens City Center
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Aegina
Agistri
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Poros
Salamina
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Hydra
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Aegina
Agistri
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SARONIC GULF
Methana
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Poros
Spetses
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Troezen
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Hydra Antikythera
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Legrena
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Kifissia
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Methana
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Acropolis, Plaka, Thission, Monastiraki, Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki, Gazi Piraeus, Kastella, Mikrolimano, Passalimani
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Cape Sounion Temple of Poseidon
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Marathonas
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Poros
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Faliro, Alimos, Elliniko
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Lavrion
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Schinias
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Troezen
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Glyfada
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Vravrona
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Elefsina (Eleusis)
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Hydra
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Vouliagmeni, Kavouri, Varkiza
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Peania
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Salamina
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Spetses
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Kythera
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Antikythera
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Antikythera
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Lagonissi
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El. Venizelos Airport
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Aegina Aphaia Temple
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Saronida
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Rafina
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Agistri
Sightseeing
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Port
Airport
Kythera
Beach
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All you heard. All you read. All you Googled. Nothing compares with the real thing. Now you’re here. You’re in Athens. Capital of Attica. Capital of Greece. So, let the games begin.
The present edition is not for sale. 1
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Index 04 Attica: How old are we? 07 Bird’s eye view of Attica 08 Τhe Unmissables 10 Coast to coast 15 Past and present glory 29 One fine day, on the islands 35 History on display 47 Where to stay 48 Warning: you may work up an appetite 57 Athens: It's live 24/7 59 The tough go shopping 63 Tips for dips 69 Attica's festive spirit 76 Athens of the unknown 78 A figure of speech
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Attica:
How old are we? Human settlements are recorded as early as the 5th millennium BC. The Neolithic settlements of the Acropolis are not unlike those in Rafina, Marathon, Spata, Thoricos and Vravrona. The Acropolis housed settlements as early as the Bronze Age; those inhabitants were not of Greek origin but bore the mythic name Pelasgi. In the early second millennium BC, the first Greeks, later called Ionians, arrived in Attica. They spoke Greek, settled peacefully in Athens and blended with the Pelasgi. Athens, capital of Attica, has been continuously inhabited for the past 7,000 years – a turbulent history of glory, wars, invasions, occupation, revolutions, decline and rebirth. Known as the cradle of civilisation and the motherland of history's most famous philosophers, 21st-century Athens wears its age well. It is vibrant and open for business 24/7, and never tires of extending a memorable welcome to its visitors. After all, Athenian hospitality – or filoxenia – is as old as Zeus.
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On a need to know basis
Cellular networks
The weather
Idiosyncrasies
Generally warm and mild, hot in summer, occasionally windy, wet and cold in winter.
The people The Greeks are stereotyped to be loud and always in a hurry, but are warm, compassionate and hospitable. Our driving and parking habits will surprise you – pleasantly so, if you have a sense of humour.
The language Of course it’s Greek, but English is widely spoken and if you can't communicate, use your hands, understood by Athenians of all ages.
GSM with 3G and 4G, generally compatible with most other systems.
Drinking water Safe and good, straight from the tap. Opening times and days of stores, museums and other tourist sites vary. Check with your hotel concierge before going shopping or log on to Attica’s official portal: www.athensattica.com.
In Case of Emergency We hope you’ll never have to use these: Police: 100 Ambulance: 166 Medical Emergency: 112 Fire Brigade: 199 Coast Guard: 108 Tourist Police: 171
Currency As a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, Greece uses the euro as its official currency. The unofficial currency is courtesy. Be kind to the Athenians and they’ll go out of their way to assist and guide you.
The power Electricity is 220–240V. If you have 110V-only equipment, you'll need a transformer.
Transportation From the ancient means of going from A to B (known as legs) to all modern contraptions, Athens has it all: metro, tram, bus, trolley, train, taxi and time-travel machines: visits to the capital's archaeological sites that take you back through millennia of history. 5
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“The Runner”: Art in glass
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Bird’s eye view of Attica Attica: birthplace of western civilisation, where paths once trod by Socrates, Plato and Aristotle still cut through the heart of the modern Greek capital. Athens: home to the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which tower like timeless sentinels above the Plaka district, the city’s most traditional yet hip locale. Where ancient monuments and Byzantine churches stand beside ultra-modern architecture. The busy ports of Piraeus, Lavrion, Rafina and a state-of-the-art international airport, solidifying the city’s reputation as a world-class hub for commerce and tourism. The Argosaronic Gulf, spreading like a 2,000-mile liquid lapis lazuli, harbours the magical islands of Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, Poros and Spetses, a perfect playground close to the capital, accessible by hydrofoils known as Flying Dolphins. Mainland Attica is filled with surprises – from Philopappos Hill, facing the Acropolis, to the mysterious, picture-perfect monastery of Kaisariani, from the serpentine roads of the Piraiki Coast to the chills of the haunted Davelis Cave in Penteli. All you need to do is unlock its secrets and experience its thrills.
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Τhe Unmissables
Holidays mean freedom from schedules or time restrictions, when 'musts' are replaced by 'wants' and 'shoulds'. When in Athens, don’t do as the Athenians do – while we're at work, you can go sightseeing. Here’s our at-a-glance pick of the must-dos.
The Acropolis1
Three to go1
Faulkner wrote: “The past is never dead... it’s not even past”. Relive the past among the stunning archeological exhibits of the Acropolis Museum, rebuilt in 2007. Looming overhead is the 'sacred rock', where the Acropolis and Parthenon have stood for millennia, today a prime destination for millions of visitors.
Eye-catching buildings representing diverse schools of architecture, and an era of romanticism: the University of Athens, National Library and Academy of Athens.
Plaka1 In the shadow of the sacred rock, yet towering above the old part of town, Plaka is untouched by time, covered with cobblestone streets, Byzantine churches, endless steps, breathtaking flora, beautifully restored homes, and myriad outdoor tavernas and bars.
Lycabettus Hill1 The high point of Athens. Accessible by cable car unless you’re up for a steep climb on foot, the hill provides magnificent, panoramic views – day and night.
National Archaeological Museum1 After the 1821 war of independence, the first museum of the Greek state was built. Important nationally and internationally, the museum contains priceless exhibits that chronicle the birth of civilisation.
Piraeus2 Once the naval port of the ancient Athenian fleet, now gateway to the islands and the world beyond. A picturesque and vibrant town well worth a visit.
Cape Sounion Temple of Poseidon9 Lord Byron’s name, carved on a column, recalls his poem: “Place me on Sunium’s marbled steep / Where nothing, save the waves and I / May hear our mutual murmurs sweep”.
Marathonas16 Located northeast of Athens, this is where an outnumbered Athenian force famously defeated the Persians in 490 BC. The Tymbos (tomb) memorialises the heroism of the 192 Athenians who fell there.
The Saronic Gulf The Greek islands: world-class beaches, cobblestone alleys, smiling faces. Close to each other yet so distinctive, you’ll think the 30-minute trip has transported you to a different country.
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New Acropolis Museum
Center: National Archaeological Museum
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Bottom: The Temple of Poseidon
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Coast to coast
Here’s a guide to the sights, sounds, smells and tastes for the avid explorer of Attica.
Plaka1 Right beneath Acropolis Hill, Plaka is the oldest and most charming district in Athens. Ruins of ancient Roman structures and Byzantine churches sit alongside beautiful neoclassical manors and picturesque taverns, creating a unique mosaic of the city’s history.
Thission1 Located south of the Acropolis, its name derives from the Temple of Hephaestus (Thission). It features many old and preserved residential and commercial buildings, as well as more bars, clubs, cafés and restaurants than you typically find in a whole city.
Kolonaki1 One of Athens’ most affluent areas, famous for its bustling square, eclectic architecture, fashionable boutiques, embassy buildings, posh cafés and haute cuisine.
Piraeus
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Chosen as the port of Athens in the 5th century BC, Piraeus is now the principal port of Greece. Located 12 kilometres from Syntagma Square, it serves as the commercial gateway of Athens to the Mediterranean and the world, with over 20 million visitors passing through every year.
Faliro3 Also known as Phaleron, this seaside suburb is located 15 minutes
from Syntagma Square. Serving as Athens’ home harbour in the days before the Persian Wars, today it boasts beautiful homes, restaurants, cafés and hotels with tramway access.
Glyfada4 Glyfada is an affluent coastal suburb, famous for wining and dining, hip summer clubs and trendy boutiques. The area offers a lot for visitors: strolling or cycling by the sea, swimming, shopping in its popular marketplace or simply having fun at high decibel levels.
Vouliagmeni5 Located at the foot of Mount Hymettus, some 25 kilometres south of Athens, this seaside suburb has some of the world's most magnificent beaches, five-star resorts, upscale dining and a colourful waterfront.
Cape Sounion9 Rumoured to be the site where King Aegeus leapt to his death, thus giving his name to the Aegean Sea, this imposing cape is home to the ruins of Poseidon’s ancient temple and the perfect spot to watch a breathtaking sunset or bask in the majesty of a full moon.
Lavrion10 Once the most important silvermining site of classical Greece, Lavrion is today home to significant ancient ruins and the classical theatre of Thoricon.
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Lake Marathonas: The dam
Rafina: History becomes present
Vravrona
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Located on the eastern coast of Attica, on the site of ancient Vravron, this is a place sacred to the ancient Athenians, who built a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The town has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age.
Peania12 An eastern region of Attica, Peania sits at the threshold of the fertile and historic plain of Mesogeia. It is the birthplace of Demosthenes, and home to the popular 12,000m2 Vorres Museum of Folk and Contemporary Art, as well as the Koutouki stalactite cave.
Rafina
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A relatively young town, Rafina was established in recent history, by Anatolian refugees in 1920. Originally called Arafin, it was one of the 100 ancient municipalities of Athens. Today it is one of Attica's busiest ports; summer traffic here rivals that of Piraeus. A nice place to grab a bite after a quick swim, before you take off at high speed to the Cyclades.
Kifissia15 An affluent northern suburb, famous for its many recreational activities, suitable for younger crowds. It’s also home to an array 11
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Plaka: Untouched by time
Kifissia: The northern beauty
of luxurious hotels, cafĂŠs and highend restaurants, as well as one of Athens' most popular marketplaces.
Marathonas16 Located 42 kilometres from Athens, this historic site will always stand as a memorial to the heroic struggle of ancient Athenians against the might of the invading Persian Empire. Famously, it is where the Marathon race begins (which was won by a Greek, incidentally, in the first modern Olympic Games).
Elefsina (Eleusis)18 A town dedicated to the goddess Demeter and home to the Eleusinian Mysteries, the most important religious rites in ancient Greece. Located on the Thriasian Plain, 20 kilometres west of Athens, this picturesque industrial locale is proud to have been the birthplace of the tragedian Aeschylus, the father of Greek tragedy.
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Lake Vouliagmeni: Calm waters and turbulent legends
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The Caryatides: Beauty stands still
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Past and present glory
�What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others“ (Pericles) The wise words of Pericles resonate with truth and sincerity: it is the lives of others that are engraved on each and every monument. Each monument tells a story that inspired its sculptor and through art those stories continue to inspire us today. Thank you, Pericles, for the monuments we now admire and which, thousands of years ago, were nothing but an idea in a brilliant mind.
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The Acropolis and the Parthenon: The crown jewels
Pnyka: For democrats of all millennia
Acropolis and the Parthenon Standing since the Bronze Age, and rebuilt in the 5th century BC during the Golden Age of Pericles and Athenian Democracy, the Acropolis has always served as the city’s fortress. It is the stage on which decisions crucial to western civilisation have been made. The architectural and aesthetic marvel of the Parthenon will resonate for a lifetime with all who witness its glory.
Pnyka Also known as the 'gathering of democrats', this barren hilltop, surrounded by lush greenery, was once where speakers and audiences alike congregated – sometimes as many as 6,000. The stone plateau is still there and you can enjoy a stroll through its gardens. Paul the Apostle walked here after he disembarked at Faliro in 51 AD.
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Herod Atticus Odeon: Theatre of drama
Lycabettus: Top of the hill
Herod Atticus Odeon
Lycabettus Hill
On the hillside below the Acropolis stands this famous open-air theatre, a Roman monument donated to the city by Herod Atticus in memory of his late wife. It was restored in the 1950s and has since been used to stage cultural events in the summer.
Enjoy a cappuccino freddo at the top-of-the-hill cafeteria and visit the picturesque Chapel of St. George. The view is breathtaking and the spot is perfect for snapping panoramic shots of the entire Athenian basin. On summer nights, the theatre on the hill showcases concerts with world-famous stars.
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The Zappeion: Beauty in architecture
Gazi-Technopolis: Packed with excitement
The Zappeion Located on the grounds of the National Gardens in the heart of Athens, the Zappeion is one of the city's most important historical and architectural structures. Opened in 1888, it is the first building to be constructed specifically for the modern Olympic Games, having served, for example, as a fencing hall in 1896, the Olympic Village in 1906 and a press centre in 2004. Today it is used for private and public functions.
Gazi-Technopolis Originally built to house the Athens Gasworks plant in the 1860s, the compound has in recent history been superbly restored, serving as a centrepiece for the city of Athens. It is home to numerous exhibits, art displays, seminars, concerts and other cultural events. Eight of its buildings are named after great Greek poets.
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Ancient Agora
The Hellenic Parliament: From monarchy to democracy
Ancient Agora On the north-western side of the Acropolis lies the cradle of democracy itself, where grand ideas were born. A complex site with a multitude of temples and public buildings, the Agora housed the city’s most important events from the Mycenaean era until late antiquity. In the same area, Thission, one can find also the Stoa of Attalos, the largest free-standing, roofed building in the city, built to house commercial activities.
The Hellenic Parliament This magnificent edifice was originally erected as a palace for King Othon and his Queen Amalia, and later served as King George's residence. At times it has housed various state services and, following a six-year reconstruction, in 1935 it finally became the permanent home of the Hellenic Parliament, which now dominates the equally historic Syntagma Square.
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Monastiraki: A major tourist attraction
Syntagma Square: The magnet of events
Monastiraki One of the most frequented shopping districts in Athens, this area features a mosque, a former Catholic chapel and a famous Athenian outdoor flea market with its speciality antique stores and souvenir shops, a place where bargaining is the norm.
Syntagma Square Also known as Constitution Square, Syntagma sits in front of the Hellenic Parliament and is the hub of Athens’ contemporary lifestyle. It is also connected to all major political events in modern Greek history. Stand in the middle of the square on a quiet evening and recall past protests, demonstrations, rallies, coups d’état and revolutions.
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Roman Agora
Olympieion and Hadrian's Arch: A show of might
Roman Agora Built during the rule of the Roman Emperor Augustus, this small but important archaeological site is located near Plaka, and is evidence of the fascination that Roman Emperors had for the city of Athens and the men and women who called it home.
Olympieion and Hadrian's Arch North-east of the Acropolis, the imposing columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus used to rise over the ancient city. Directly in front of it, and marking the entrance to the eastern section of Athens, is the monumental gateway, built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, a great admirer of Greece.
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Ermou Street and the Church of Kapnikarea: Differing religions
Panathenaic Stadium: An odyssey of marble
Ermou Street and the Church of Kapnikarea A historic commercial road of post-revolutionary Athens, which connects Syntagma Square with the Monastiraki and Thission districts. Reserved for pedestrians, it’s the perfect place to windowshop or explore the Byzantine church of Panaghia (Virgin Mary) Kapnikarea, which stands in the middle of the street.
Panathenaic Stadium Built during the 4th century BC on the slopes of Ardittos Hill and partially reconstructed for the Olympic Games of 1896, it has been associated with all major sports events in Greece during the 20th and 21st centuries. Paying homage to the original Marathon run and commemorating the victory of Greek runner Spyros Louis, every Marathon finishes here.
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Cape Sounion: Sunset from the temple
Mikrolimano: True colours
Cape Sounion
Kastella – Mikrolimano
Located at the south-eastern tip of the Attica peninsula, the cape was used by the Athenians both as a place of worship and as a fortress, watching over the commercial seaways of the Aegean Sea. The majestic Temple of Poseidon can be seen from ships approaching the cape. The sunset is pure magic.
The picturesque hill of Kastella and the moorings of Mikrolimano are perfect for sightseeing and romantic strolls. The harbour is the third largest in the Piraeus complex and one of antiquity’s major military hubs. Today, the area is a key entertainment destination for both Greeks and international visitors.
Passalimani Once the major military harbour of the ancient Athenian Republic, Passalimani is today a fun stopover in the city of Piraeus and one of the country’s major marinas. 23
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Mount Hymettus
Mount Parnitha: A walk in the woods
Mount Hymettus
Mount Parnitha
Rising majestically to the east of the city, this sacred mountain is home to ancient Athenian temples and holy places. Despite human activity, it remains an important natural habitat, still covered by impressive flora. Ideal for walks in autumn and spring.
A forested mountain range north of Athens, Mount Parnitha is a national park and a protected habitat for wild birds. Its slopes also host the famous Regency Mont Parnes Casino. Among locals, the name Parnitha has always been synonymous with 'casino'.
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Mount Penteli: The Monastery
Philopappos Hill: Front-row seats to the Acropolis
Mount Penteli
Philopappos Hill
Since antiquity, Mount Penteli has been one of Athens' renowned mountain ranges, renowned for the marble extracted from its quarries: the marble used in the Acropolis. With its exquisite, yellowish-amber tint, this white marble shines with a golden hue under Attica’s sunlight, adding to the magical aura of the Acropolis.
Also known as the ‘Hill of the Muses’, Philopappos Hill – located on the lush south-western side of the Acropolis – was named after a Roman prince. In the past, it was used as a fortress that housed a garrison. Today’s visitor can climb its rocky path to see the 12-metrehigh monument – the chapel of Saint Demetrius the Bombardier – or simply stroll through the olive and cypress trees.
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Eleusis: Mysteries of past lives
Vravronian Artemis: The ancient state
Eleusis
Vravronian Artemis
Eleusis, an ancient town considered sacred in ancient Attica, was famous for the cult of Demeter, goddess of the harvest, as well as the popular Eleusinian Mysteries. It was also the birthplace of Aeschylus, the father of Greek tragedy and one of the three iconic Greek dramatists. Major attractions here are the Greater and Lesser Propylaia, the Sacred Yard, the Telesterion, the Triumphal Arches and the Mycenaean palace.
Vravrona was a sacred site among the ancient Athenians. There stood the famous Temple of Artemis Vravronia. Inhabited since the Neolithic Era, Vravrona was one of the first settlements to be united under King Theseus, and became part of a new, powerful Athens. Today, following 20thcentury excavations, Vravrona is an important archaeological site with a fascinating museum.
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Erechtheion: Standing tall through the millennia
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The Saronic Gulf: Sailing to medieval times
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One fine day, on the islands... The Attica region includes some of the most charming Greek Islands. Kythera and Antikythera are located at the southern edge of the Peloponnese and require more travel time. The rest – Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, Poros and the opposite coast of Troezen, Spetses and Hydra – are perfect for day trips and brief escapes. Each island has a unique feel. Nearby Aegina, although now a suburb of Athens, is a lively spot. Agistri is perfectly serene, while Hydra and Spetses exude 19th-century charm and 20thcentury cosmopolitan allure. Salamina is teeming with history, Poros is the ideal romantic retreat, while distant Kythera and Antikythera still retain the flavour of tradition.
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Aegina, Agistri: Pistachios anyone?
Salamina: Defeat of the Persian fleet
Aegina, Agistri
Salamina
A major maritime power in antiquity, Aegina still shows its past glory in the Temple of Aphaia, the Governor’s House and many interesting museums. Beautiful beaches and the secluded sister island of Agistri complete the picture. Make sure you try the original Aegina pistachio nuts.
Ancient Salamis, where the Greeks defeated the Persian fleet in one of history's most dramatic naval battles, is the Saronic Gulf’s largest island. Its name appears in Homer and means 'place amid salt water'. Churches from the 10th to 12th centuries are popular destinations. Its busy port, Paloukia, is second in size only to Piraeus.
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Hydra: Floating in nostalgia
Spetses: Cosmopolitan atmosphere
Hydra
Spetses
Donkeys are the island’s transportation of choice, together with bicycles and water taxis. Many travellers love to take a snapshot by the old cannon near the harbour and then visit historic homes, Dakis Joannou’s art museum and nearby monasteries. After a swim in the island’s crystal-clear waters, don't miss the famous amygdalota, locally made almond sweets.
This fascinating old town contains the Spetses museum, the house of revolutionary heroine Bouboulina, the Anargyros Manor and the old harbour with its iconic lighthouse. If you’re here in September, make sure to take in the spectacular Armata Festival.
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Poros, Methana, Troezen: Lemon forests and a volcano
Kythera, Antikythera: Medieval charm
Poros, Methana, Troezen
Kythera, Antikythera
The Temple of Poseidon, Bourtzi and a lemon-tree grove charm all who visit Poros. Nearby Methana boasts an active volcano and hot springs, famous since antiquity. Troezen, in the south, is where Themistocles sent ancient Athenian families for safety before the Battle of Salamis.
On these islands the traveller has many options: the Medieval Castle, old churches, lighthouses and vistas of infinite charm. The beaches of Kapsali, Kabonada, Palaeopoli, Chalkos and Firi Ammos are accessible by car, bike, donkey or on foot. Also worth seeing is the Castle of Paleochora, ravaged by the pirate Barbarossa. Hire a speed boat to Antikythera and swim at the beaches of Xiropotamos and Kamarilla.
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Kythera: Mylopotamos
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Byzantine Museum
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History on display
”There is nothing permanent except change“ (Heraclitus) With a long, turbulent and intriguing history, Attica is home to some of the most important museums in the world (detailed below). But complementing those museums are the smaller archaeological sites and folklore museums available for exploration in almost every town. Some specialise in particular aspects of modern and contemporary history: the Byzantine and Christian Museum, the Museum of Islamic Art and the Marine Museum in Piraeus. Thematic museums also abound, notably the Children’s Museum, the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments of Plaka, the National Gallery and the Lavrion Mineralogical Museum. With the wealth of history available to the visitor of Attica, there’s something to fascinate everyone, so be sure to plan your time and choose well.
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New Acropolis Museum
New Acropolis Museum Open since 2009, this ultra-modern yet classical museum houses important artefacts discovered through centuries of digs on the 'sacred rock'. Millions of visitors have admired the Parthenon sculptures contained in its vast halls and many could swear that the exhibits seem to 'come alive'.
National Archaeological Museum
National Archaeological Museum The largest museum in Greece, it houses some of the most important pieces of ancient Greek art. Statues from the Antikythera wreck, Agamemnon’s death mask, the Wall Paintings of Thera, the Artemision Bronze, the world’s oldest known complex scientific calculator, the Antikythera Mechanism – these are just a few of the treasures that await you.
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Numismatic Museum
Museum of Cycladic Art
Numismatic Museum
Museum of Cycladic Art
Founded in 1834, this is one of the oldest public collections in the world and contains over 500,000 coins and medals dating from the 14th century BC until today. The museum is housed in the Iliou Melathron, former residence of Heinrich Schliemann, the renowned excavator of ancient Troy.
Located near Syntagma Square, the museum houses the largest collection of Cycladic art, including famous figurines and marble vessels, as well as other ancient rarities from the Minoan, Mycenaean, Geometric, Archaic and Classical eras.
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Benaki Museum
Domenicos Theotokopoulos: "The concert of Angels" (1608-1614)
Benaki Museum
National Gallery
Housed here are extensive collections covering all phases of Greek culture. The collection is divided among a neoclassical building on Vassilissis Sofias Avenue and a modern structure on Pireos Street, which also hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions.
Since 1878, when it began as a small collection of 117 works exhibited at Athens University, the National Gallery has grown into an established landmark of Athens. It houses mainly post-Byzantine Greek art as well as an extensive collection of European artists, including a choice Renaissance collection. Sculptures have been relocated to the new National Glyptotheque.
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Goulandris Natural History Museum
Planetarium
Goulandris Natural History Museum Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building in Kifissia, this museum is dedicated to the study, conservation and protection of the environment. A team of top Greek and international scientists have contributed to this catalogue of Greece's biological and geological riches. The museum also provides an ongoing programme of free activities and events to raise awareness of environmental issues.
Planetarium The Eugenides Foundation Planetarium on Syngrou Avenue has evolved into an amateur astronomer’s dream. Employing state-of-the-art digital technology, it is a major attraction for children and adults alike. The recently renovated complex boasts a towering, 25-metre dome, the largest of its kind in the world.
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Athens Concert Hall
Onassis Cultural Centre
Athens Concert Hall
Onassis Cultural Centre
The heart of music in Greece, the Megaron Athens Concert Hall has hosted the biggest names in the arts since 1991. All genres are represented: symphony orchestras, opera, ballet, classical drama as well as bouzouki music. It has four performance venues, as well as conference and banqueting facilities and a concert garden.
This relatively new cultural space hosts events and activities from across the whole arts spectrum, from theatre, dance, music and the visual arts to the written word. The Centre focuses on contemporary cultural expression, supporting Greek artists, cultivating international collaboration and educating children and people of all ages through life-long learning.
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Byzantine Museum
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Propylaia: The entrance to eternity
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A contact list with history
Benaki Museum
Wed & Fri: 09:00-17:00, Thu & Sat: 09:00-24:00, Sun: 09:00-15:00, Mon & Tue: Closed Admission: 7€ 1, Koubari St. & Vas. Sofias Ave., Athens. Tel: 210-367-1000
New Acropolis Museum
Museum of Greek Folk Art
Mon-Thu: 09:00-17:00, Fri: 09:00-21:00, Sat-Sun: 9:00-20:00 Admission: 5€ 15, Dionisiou Areopagitou St., Athens. Tel: 210-900-0900
Kanellopoulos Museum
National Archaeological Museum Mon: 13:00-20:00, Tue-Sun & national holidays: 08:00-15:00 Admission: 7€ 44, Patission St., Athens. Tel: 213-214-4800
Ancient Agora Museum
Winter: 08:00-15:00, Mon: 11:00-15:00 Summer: Tue-Fri: 08:00-20:00, Mon: 11:00-20:00, Admission: 4€ 24, Adrianou St., Athens. Tel: 210-321-0185
Kerameikos Museum
Tue-Sun: 08:00-15:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 2€ 148, Ermou St., Kerameikos. Τel: 210-346-3552
Cycladic Art Museum
Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat: 10:00-17:00, Thu: 10:00-20:00, Sun: 11:00-17:00, Tue: Closed Admission: 7€, Μon: 3,5€ 4, Neofytos Doukas St., Athens. Tel: 210-722-8321
Byzantine and Christian Museum
Winter: Tue-Sun: 08:00-15:00, Mon: Closed Summer: Tue-Sun: 09:00-16:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 4€ 22, Vas. Sofias Ave., Athens. Tel: 213-213-9572
Tue-Sun: 09:00-15:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 2€ 17, Kydathineon St., Athens. Τel: 210-322-9031 Winter: 08:00-15:00 Mon: Closed, Admission: Free 12, Theorias & Panos St., Athens. Τel: 210-321-2313
Fryssiras Museum
Wed-Fri: 11:00-17:00, Sat-Sun: 11:00-17:00, Mon-Tue: Closed Admission: 6€ 3-7, Monis Asteriou St., Plaka. Tel: 210-323-4678
Museum of Islamic Art
Thu-Sun: 9:00-17:00, Mon, Tue, Wed: Closed, Admission 7€ Ag. Asomaton & 12, Dipilou St., Athens. Tel: 210-325-1311
Jewish Museum of Greece Mon-Fri: 09:00-14:30, Sun: 10:00-14:00, Sat: Closed, Admission: 6€ 39, Nikis St., Athens. Tel: 210-322-5582
Numismatic Museum of Athens Tue-Sun: 8:00-15:30 Mon: Closed Admission: 3€ 12, Panepistimiou St., Athens. Τel: 210-361-2519
Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum
Wed-Sat: 09:00–15:00, Sun: 11:00–16:00, Mon-Tue, last Sunday of every month and national holidays: Closed Admission: 5€ 12, Kallisperi St., Acropolis, Athens. Τel: 210-922-1044
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National History Museum
Athens War Museum
National Gallery
The Goulandris Natural History Museum
Tue-Sun: 09:00-14:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 3€ 13, Stadiou St., Athens. Τel: 210-322-6370
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri & Sat: 09:00-14:00, Wed: 9:00-18:00, Sun: Closed Admission: 5€ 1, Michalakopoulou St. & 50, Vas.Konstantinou Ave., Athens. Tel: 210-723-5937
National Museum of Contemporary Art
Tue-Sun: 11:00-19:00, Thu: 11:00-22:00, Mon: Closed, 17-19, Vas.Georgiou II & Rigilis St., Athens. Tel: 210-924-2111-3
National Glyptotheque Wed & Fri: 08:00-15:00 Admission: 5€ Alsos Army, Goudi. Tel:210-770-9855
Eugenides Foundation Planetarium 387, Syngrou Ave. – Pal. Faliron. Entrance from 11, Pentelis St. Tel: 210-946-9600 Fax: 210-941-7372
Onassis Cultural Centre Athens Mon-Sun: 09:00-21:00 107-109, Syngrou Ave., Athens. Tel: 210-900-5800
Athens Concert Hall
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00, Sat: 10:00-14:00 Vas. Sofias & Kokkali St., Athens. Tel: 210-728-2000
Tue-Sun: 09:00-17:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 2€ 2, Rizari St., Kolonaki. Τel: 210-725-2974
Tue-Fri: 09:00-14:30, Sat: 09:30-16:00, Sun: 10:00-16:00, national holidays: Closed, Admission: 6€ 13, Levidou St., Kifissia. Tel: 210-801-5870
Archaeological Museum of Piraeus Tue-Sat: 08:00-15:00, Mon: Closed Sundays & holidays: 09:30-14:30 Admission: 3€ 31, Char.Trikoupi St., Passalimani. Tel: 210-452-1598
Archaeological Museum of Marathon Tue-Sun: 8:00-15:00 Admission: 3€ 114, Plataion St., Marathon. Tel: 22940-55155
Archaeological Museum of Eleusis
Tue-Sun: 08:00-15:00, Mon: Closed Admission: 3€ Eleusina. Tel: 210-554-6019
Archaeological Museum of Megara Tue-Sun: 08:00-15:00 Mon: Closed Admission: 2€ 22, Dimarchou G. Menidiati St., Megara. Tel: 22960-22426
Museum of Greek Children’s Art
Tue-Sat: 10:00-14:00, Sun: 11:00-14:00 Mon: Closed. Admission: 2€ 9, Kodrou St., Plaka, Athens. Tel: 210-331-2621, 210-331-2750
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Visiting times and admission prices may change. Check before you go.
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Kerameikos Museum
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Private villas: The ultimate luxury
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Where to stay The concept of hospitality – xenia – is Greek If you visited Athens before 1832, you would have stayed in a makeshift inn, an old house with minimal facilities and service, or perhaps sleep under the stars. The city's first hotel was the Europa, near Monastiraki, owned by an Italian and his Austrian wife. It opened in 1832 and, according to the French poet Lamartine, “it had rooms painted with lime, properly furnished, a cool yard and a little shade. Greek servants were intelligent and willing. In all, no different from those hotels in Italy, England or Switzerland”. In 1837, the first fully equipped hotel, Aiolos, marked the beginning of a new era, which slowly made Athens an early tourist spot for Greeks and visitors alike. The luxury hotel tradition began in 1874, when Greek entrepreneur Lampsas, with a loan of 800,000 drachma (equivalent to 24,000 euros today) bought two old mansions in Syntagma Square and built the Grand Bretagne, one of the first buildings to have electricity (in 1888). In 1958, Athens celebrated its first multi-storey hotel, the Athens Hilton. Attica's accommodations have come a long way. From the first rooming houses to today's five-star establishments, the art of welcoming and pampering guests has evolved into a philosophy well worth its ancient Athenian legacy. After all, it was Zeus Xenios, the god of hospitality among other things, who made hospitality not just a courtesy in ancient Athens, but an obligation, a law of ethics. Hotels in Attica, regardless of their star rating, are excellent, well managed, regulated and full of amenities. Five-star hotels and resorts rival the best in the world and guests in humble island inns leave with equally fond memories of their stay. One of the unwritten rules of hospitality in ancient Greece was the parting gift (xenion) from the host, to express his honour at receiving the guest. So don’t feel bad if you take the shampoo from your hotel bathroom – you could say it’s part of the tradition.
For more information please visit: www.all-athens-hotels.com
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Warning: you may work up an appetite The Greeks have had a love affair with food as old as millennia. Greeks often spend their mid-day meal discussing what's on the menu for dinner. The variety of Attica's cuisine reflects the varied geography of the region. With a coastline well over 150 kilometres long, one can expect to find excellent fish and seafood at many seaside locations, such as the small, picturesque port of Mikrolimano or the bustling harbour of Rafina. Equally known for great seafood is the neighbourhood of Kaisariani, closer to the centre of Athens. Meat lovers will also not be disappointed. With the mountains of Parnitha, Penteli and Hymettus enveloping the northern and eastern part of Attica, and hundreds of local farms providing fresh meat and poultry on a daily basis, those looking for steak, lamb or a local delicacy known as kokoretsi will have plenty of choices. The areas of Marathon (yes, of Olympic fame), Kalyvia and Vari are home to countless tavernas famous for their meat dishes. Of course, if time is limited, a great culinary experience can be had right in the city centre. For a highly cosmopolitan evening out, you can choose one of the many restaurants and bistros in the fashionable area of Kolonaki, a stone’s throw from Syntagma Square. Equally close is Psiri, an area that has been recently transformed into one of Athens’ most popular eating destinations, with dozens of small tavernas and koutoukia lining its narrow streets. And following your mandatory visit to the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum, you should wander through the historic district of Plaka where narrow cobblestone streets play host to dozens of traditional tavernas offering great local fare.
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Souvlaki Pita
Middle: Dolmadakia
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Bottom: Dakos Salad
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When in Greece... …eat as the Greeks eat. Here's a dictionary of the unique dishes of Attica. All these delicacies are found in and around Athens, usually made with the freshest produce and ingredients of the region. Warning: Don’t read this if you're feeling hungry.
Feta
Moussaka
Greece’s brined curd, traditional cheese that goes well with any dish. Plain, with a little olive oil and oregano; with freshly baked bread or a choriatiki salad; from the oven or grilled with tomato; melted as a salad dressing; stuffed in cheese pies... the list goes on.
The name may be Arabic (musaqa) but this recipe of oven-baked, layered eggplant, ground beef and tomato with a thick topping of béchamel sauce, is totally Greek.
Choriatiki The real Greek salad. For many, this serves as a main course, where tomato meets cucumber, green pepper, onion, feta cheese, olive oil and oregano.
Tzatziki Yogurt, cucumber and lots of garlic. Avoid if you have a hot date.
Souvlaki Pita The king of the souvlaki species. Pork, lamb or chicken brochette, wrapped in a pita, smothered in tomato, onion, tzatziki and, sometimes, fries.
Kalamaki The Athenian version of souvlaki rules with its simplicity: grilled pork, chicken or beef brochette, sprinkled with salt, oregano and lemon.
Gyros Pork roasted vertically on a spit and cut in thin slices, served with grilled pita and tzatziki, or pitawrapped as a souvlaki.
Dolmadakia Fresh vine leaves wrap rice (often with ground beef) and spices, in olive oil and lemon.
Mezeh A generic term for small portions of Greek munchies, hot or cold.
Fava Perfectly boiled fava beans, yellow and warm; and when combined with olive oil, lemon and chopped onion – simply delicious.
Dakos Traditional, firm wheat bread, soaked with water, olive oil and vinegar, topped with juicy red tomato, crumbled feta cheese and oregano.
Horta Generic term for boiled greens, served with olive oil, lemon, and a slice of feta on the side.
Saganaki Yellow cheese, fried to crisp perfection on the outside, with a slice of lemon.
Spanakopita Spinach and feta cheese pie in layers of thin phyllo (filo) dough. 51
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Taramosalata Fish roe mixed with mashed potatoes or moistened bread crumbs, olive oil and lemon juice.
Yemista Tomatoes, peppers, courgettes and aubergines, stuffed with rice, herbs and raisins, masterfully oven-baked.
Pastichio Baked pasta with ground meat filling, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce.
Scordalia Thick garlic and potato puree, usually accompanying deep-fried fish.
Koulouri When Athenians decide to have breakfast on-the-go, this round of tasty dough with sesame seeds is their first choice.
Drinks Ouzo Drunk neat only rarely, this delicious, anise-flavoured beverage is normally mixed with water and a cube of ice, inseparable from a mezeh, and a perfect companion to charcoaled octopus and calamari. It’s an exclusive Greek product, with protected designation of origin.
Tsipouro Forefather of ouzo, this strong distilled spirit is popular among male drinkers.
Masticha Made from mastic, a Mediter ranean tree resin, this flavourful liqueur native to the island of Chios is also a nice after-dinner digestive.
Retsina A dry white wine flavored from resin, perhaps the most famous Greek wine, popular the world over.
Frappé Once the king of summer beverages, it was eclipsed by the caffé freddo. Made from instant coffee, mixed with sugar, shaken till it foams, and served over ice.
Freddo Iced espresso with foamed cold milk and crushed ice.
Ellinikos Finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a pot (briki) and served hot with lots of bubbles. Served straight, semi-sweet, sweet or very sweet.
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Yemista
Middle: Ouzo
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Bottom: Ellinikos coffee
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Bougatsa
Loukoumades
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Sweets
Pasteli
Bougatsa
Yaourti Meli
Sweet semolina custard, wrapped in fresh phyllo (filo) pastry, sprinkled with sugar.
Loukoumades Similar to small doughnuts. Fried balls of dough drenched in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Baklava Phyllo pastry layers filled with chopped walnuts and drenched in honey.
Kandaifi This close relative of baklava has a base of shredded phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts and swimming in rich syrup.
Galaktoboureko Custard baked between layers of phyllo, then soaked with lemonscented honey syrup.
Sesame seeds and pure honey – a triumph of simplicity. Yogurt with Hymettus honey, combined with peaches or watermelon, perfect for breakfast. Also as a dessert, with honey and chopped walnuts.
Loukoumia Similar to Turkish delight, this dessert is made from starch and sugar, and flavoured with rose water or mastic.
Glyko Koutaliou (Spoon Sweets) The most popular flavour is sour cherry (vissino).
Ypovrychio A spoonful of vanilla, sometimes flavoured with mastic, submerged in a glass of ice-cold water.
Fystiki The exclusive pistachio, grown on the island of Aegina. Salt-roasted (its most popular version) or plain, also eaten unroasted.
Amygdaloto Ground, blanched almonds, sugar and rose water.
Kourabiedes Flour, butter and crushed roasted almonds, generously dusted with fine sugar. Available around Christmas time, though aficionados can find them year-round in speciality shops in Athens.
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Athens: It’s live 24/7 The first-time visitor to the greater Athens area will quickly (and correctly) conclude that the locals have raised the act of hanging out to an art form. With more cafés, bars, clubs, theatres and cinemas per square kilometre than probably any city in the world, it goes without saying that entertainment— whether laidback, mildly energetic or totally wild—is food for the soul. First and foremost, Greeks and coffee are inextricably linked. The sight of locals lingering over a glass of frappé or a cappuccino freddo while discussing politics or football is as common as the blue sky over Athens. It should come as no surprise that there’s a café in every corner of every neighbourhood, most staying open until very late at night. The number of bars is equally staggering; from quiet haunts to crowd-gathering caverns, there’s something for everyone. The squares of Karytsi and Aghias Irinis are great for bar-hopping as they feature small bars with a distinct European touch. Gazi, just off Pireos Street, is where most Athenians have one or more favourite late-night hang-outs. Glyfada, a vibrant neighbourhood on the coast, is also home to dozens of bars and cafés that are especially popular during the summer months. Although Athens never sleeps, clubbing really comes into its own in the summer. The coastal areas of Glyfada, Alimos and Kalamaki offer a choice of sizzling nightclubs. Particularly popular are those featuring live performances by Greece’s hottest music stars, known as 'bouzoukia'. In the winter months, the buzz simply changes neighbourhoods and moves closer to the centre, around Iera Odos, Pireos Street and Gazi.
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”...the tough go shopping“ For the avid or even occasional shopper, no other city is packed with as many temptations. Athens and Attica's other main cities offer a wealth of shopping options, encompassing everything from a leisurely stroll along commercial streets and high-end malls, to a wide range of diverse, alternative outlets. Shopping can be separated into three main groups: the 'youthaxis' of Ermou and its environs; the three major marketplaces of the city – Kolonaki, Kifissia and Glyfada; and over 10 shopping centres spread around the capital and surrounding towns. Of course, those who prefer traditional outdoor markets will find plenty of them all over Attica. Whatever your style, budget or taste, rest assured: Athens has what you seek.
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Monastiraki: Land of bargaining
Fashion streets: Shopping meccas
Monastiraki
Major Markets
An amazing array of shops along Ermou Street and the narrow alleys leading to Monastiraki. This is where young Athenians go to see, be seen and, sometimes, to shop. Major brands attract thousands of hip shoppers to the area, where bargain-hunting is something of a tradition.
Expansive markets, featuring signature brands, are located at Kolonaki, as well as the northern suburb of Kifissia and the southern suburb of Glyfada. Prices in these areas are relatively high, but the quality is excellent and you'll find all major brands of apparel, leather, shoes and accessories.
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Athenian Capitol Ioulianou & 3rd Septemvriou St., Omonia. Tel: 210-821-0542
Athens Heart 180, Pireos & Hamosternas St., Moschato-Tavros. Tel: 210-341-4105
Athens Metro Mall 276, Vouliagmenis Ave., Agios Dimitrios. Tel: 210-976-9444
Athens Millennium Mall 108-110, Ymittou & Chremonidou, Pagkrati. Tel: 210-756-2072
Attica Mall 9, Panepistimiou St., Athens. Tel: 211-180-2600
Avenue Mall 41-47, Kifissias Ave., Maroussi. Tel: 210-610-0901
Factory Outlet – Airport Airport Commercial Mall, Spata. Tel: 210-354-1800
Factory Outlet – Neo Faliro 76, Pireos St., Neo Faliro. Tel: 210-483-3926
Golden Hall Any shopping centre has your name on it
To the mall, my sisters, to the mall… Department stores emerged shyly some 60 years ago, with the historic 'Minion', which evolved from a kiosk at Omonia to become a retail empire. Nowadays they have become a prime destination for locals and visitors. The 'onestop-shop' concept, enhanced by entertainment, food and movies, add up to a winning combination. So, here we go...
37A, Kifissias St., Maroussi. Tel: 210-680-3450
McArthurGlen E71, Block Gyalou, Spata. Tel: 210-663-0840
River West 96, Kifissos Ave., Aegaleo. Tel: 801-222-5050
The Mall 35, Andrea Papandreou St., Maroussi. Tel: 210-630-0000
Village Shopping & More 228, Thivon St. & Kanapitseri, Pireaus. Tel: 210-425-6087
West Plaza Bouboulinas & 100 Filis St., Aspropyrgos.Tel: 210-557-4950 61
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To be man’s best friend, you've got to dive
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Tips for dips Water is indeed life, and nothing contributes more to Attica’s unique spark than its proximity to the sea. Greater Athens features the longest coastline of any European capital. Visitors keep coming back for the clarity and quality of its ocean waters. Spectacular, sand-fringed beaches are readily accessible by tram, metro, bus and bicycle. Whether you’re looking for a large, organised setting, with services like beach bars, massages and water sports, or a quiet cove for a romantic, lateafternoon getaway, Attica has it all. The combination of crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes makes this the ideal destination for scuba-diving, windsurfing, kite-surfing and sailing (it’s a little-known fact that the Olympic sailing teams of several countries train in the Saronic Gulf). If you haven’t tried any of the above but are keen to, many licensed schools offer specialised training. If you’d rather take a dip in fresh water, the Lake of Vouliagmeni features a constant water temperature all year round. Only 50 metres from the coast, the lake is set in the middle of a spectacular rock formation that becomes even more awe-inspiring when illuminated on summer evenings. The Saronic Gulf includes many wonderful islands, most of which are popular weekend destinations throughout the year: consider a visit to Aegina, Poros or Hydra. And if you’d like to venture farther afield, the bays of Corinth, Argolis and Evia are spectacular playgrounds for sea lovers.
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Kavouri Peninsula: Midnight swim - a must
Middle: Vouliagmeni (Limanakia)
Bottom: Saronida Mavro Lithari (Black Rock)
Free Beaches (no admission fee) Kavouri Peninsula
17 kilometres away, some 25 minutes in traffic, longer by bus. Gorgeous location, sandy, coffee shops and tavernas nearby. Ideal for a midnight swim.
Saronida Mavro Lithari (Black Rock) 40 kilometres away. Beautiful sand beach. Umbrella and chaise, â‚Ź9. Young crowds.
Vouliagmeni (Limanakia) 21 kilometres away, 35-40 minutes in traffic. Rocks, rocks and more rocks. View: Lake of Vouliagmeni. 64
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Legrena: What colour water do you like?
Schinias Beach: The whole colour palette is here.
Legrena (Sounio) 63 kilometres away, 75 minutes by car. Azure water, sandy beach, first-come, first-served. No facilities. Nudists permitted. Main attraction: swim underneath the Poseidon Temple and take in a gorgeous sunset.
Schinias Beach, Marathonas The longest beach of Attica’s East Coast, surrounded by pine trees, with an adjacent, loud beach-bar. Expect your swim to be accented by the pungent aroma of lamb chops, charcoal-grilled at nearby tavernas.
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Asteria, Glyfada: Style, comfort and view
Beach Park Yabanaki, Varkiza: Fun, sun and sports
Beaches with admission fees Asteria, Glyfada 10 kilometres away, 20 minutes. Sandy, classy, good for families and kids; waterpark, lots of bars and restaurants. Hip crowds. Topless OK.
Beach Park Yabanaki, Varkiza 30 kilometres away. Family-friendly, relaxed, casual with deck chairs and umbrellas. Modestly priced. Topless OK.
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Astir Beach, Vouliagmeni: The town’s best
Grand Beach Lagonissi: Upscale and exclusive
Astir Beach, Vouliagmeni
Grand Beach Lagonissi
20 kilometres away, 30 minutes. Good for people-watching, including celebrities of all kinds. Sandy beach, but pricey. Water ski, jet ski, windsurfing. Topless OK.
41 kilometres away, 65 minutes (allow extra on Sundays). Part of the Grand Resort, a five-star hotel complex. Modestly priced with a marvellous pool, all sports. Topless OK.
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Odeon of Herodes Atticus
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Attica's festive spirit From late spring to late autumn, the whole of Attica becomes an outdoor summertime arena of festivals and celebrations of all kinds, inspired by ancient or modern history, tradition, religion or even local products. The Greeks never see this as an annual routine, but always seem to jump in as if for the first time. For the visitor, this is a way to glimpse Greece’s culture through colourful and even spectacular productions with a heart – the kind of shows that are designed to be played under starry skies. Festivals are as old as Greece itself. The Athenian year once began around midsummer, at the new moon. Greek tragedy itself was born in this very region from the music, singing and dancing at the festivals of Dionysus. In modern-day Attica, festivals are also an opportunity for local societies to celebrate creativity, spirit and soul – the essence of being Greek.
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Herod Atticus Odeon: The Athens Festival
The Athens Festival
The Book Festival
A cultural tradition, started in the summer of 1955 in the Herod Atticus Odeon, and continuing, uninterrupted, to the present day. As the importance of this festival grew, new venues were added but the focus has always remained on classical music, opera and ballet performances. Maria Kallas, Maurice Bejart, the Bolshoi Ballet and many important Greek artists have appeared on this impressive stage. Those lucky enough to attend won’t forget the magic of a warm Athenian night under the stars, with divine music and the charm of a unique venue.
Books galore. Every street and square of Athens, packed with literature. Twice a year (in May and September) bookworms can flip through choice volumes on display throughout the city; they might even buy a few. Book festivals are openair events staged mainly in the historic Zappeion and its gardens. But wherever space allows, Athenian booksellers will manage to put out a table or stand.
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Athens Classic Marathon
Athens Classic Marathon
Spetses Mini Marathon
Attica was and always will be the mother of all Marathons. In November, runners from around the world swarm into the city to take part in the authentic Athenian Marathon. In 490 BC, a soldier called Pheidippides ran 42km to announce the glorious Greek victory over the Persians. Breathtaking moments await Marathon runners and all sports aficionados as they reach the finishing line, to find the Stadium teeming with thousands of cheering spectators in this grand athletic celebration. Choose one of the three routes (5, 10, and 42 km) and live the experience of a lifetime! Be a part of this 2,500-year-old myth.
Early October sees cosmopolitan charm and traditional values blend together on the island of Spetses, where another first-class sports event is hosted. The Spetses Mini Marathon consists of both running and swimming races. Runners enjoy a unique trail bordering on the sea, lined with deep green pine trees - no matter which route they may choose (5, 10, and 25 km). Swimmers may choose between 3,000 and 5,000 meters. The island is steeped in festive cheer for three whole days, while parallel events, local delicacies and unforgettable soirĂŠes make sure everyone will raise a cup for fair play! 71
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Spetses: The Regatta
The Regatta
Miaoulea
The Hellenic Offshore Racing Club has organised the International Aegean Sailing Rally since 1964. It includes a series of three or four offshore races starting at Faliro Bay, with stations on several Greek islands, often finishing back in Faliro. Symbolically, the race starts in front of the historic WWII battleship Averof, which also functions as a Maritime Museum. The race covers between 250 and 400 nautical miles, depending on the islands selected in any given year. Yachts of all types compete, and the scoring system reflects the classification of each vessel.
This is a series of celebrations held in Hydra every June, to commemorate the victory of the Greek fleet under Andreas Miaoulis over the TurkishEgyptian fleet, in the Battle of Gerontas, (1824). The ceremony starts with a re-enactment, whereby the inhabitants of Hydra rebel against the Ottomans, as they did in 1821. It then proceeds to the burning of the enemy flagship. The festivities include many sporting, cultural and artistic events, such as torch races, regattas, concerts and exhibitions. This emotional journey through history ends with fireworks and an all-night party.
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Pistachios: Fresh, branded, exclusive
The Pistachio festival The 'Fistiki Fest', held on the island of Aegina, is a celebration and promotion for the unique Aegina pistachio (fistiki), a product with protected designation of origin. The Aegina pistachio has recently begun to gain world visibility, although it was a trademark on the island for over 100 years. Festivities include events for all ages, local product tasting and, naturally, pistachio sweets from local producers and renowned pastry chefs.
Opening Night Cinema
International Cinema Festival 'Opening Nights' The goal of the festival is to introduce independent American, European, international and Greek feature films to the Athenian public and visitors. Whether in competition or not, some of the important movies of the new season (which officially starts in late September) are showcased in these opening nights. Both film buffs and critics can watch and review the movies, which won't be available to the general public until months later.
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Armata Festival: Burning of the Turkish flagship
Armata Held on the island of Spetses every September, this is a spectacular re-enactment: the burning of the Turkish flagship in the great naval battle between the Greek and Ottoman fleets, in September 1822. The annual Armata festival features boats and battles along with other cultural events, including those honouring Laskarina Bouboulina, the fierce female admiral who ordered her ships to fight against the Ottoman navy. The people of Spetses credited the Virgin Mary for the victory, naming the little harbour
chapel Panagia Armata after her. Following the re-enactment, an impressive display of fireworks completes the celebration.
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Rockwave Festival: The frenzy of rock
Rockwave Festival Rock fans, rejoice! For almost 20 years, pop culture’s biggest names have met here, at Terra Vibe Park, in Malakassa. Iggy Pop, Massive Attack, Moby, Peter Gabriel, Manu Chao, Judas Priest, Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Twisted Sister, Black Sabbath have all performed during the festival's electric nights, with tens of thousands of fans standing, singing and cheering. The warm, July nights and dramatic setting make the Rockwave Festival one of a kind.
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Athens of the unknown Athens isn’t just about the museums and the obligatory ancient sites, it's also a playground for the offbeat, the bizarre, the unusual. Ghost hunters shouldn’t miss the Davelis Cave at Mount Penteli. Known not only for its chapel, built directly into the cave, but mainly for paranormal activities, hair-raising stories and spooky legends. Vouliagmeni Lake is another stunning location, replete with eerie tales of lost divers. Thrill seekers will also enjoy the First Cemetery of Athens, filled with marble statues that range from the breathtaking to the bizarre. Among its tombstones, framed by pines and cypresses, visitors will find the burial site of T.H. White, author of 'The Once and Future King', as well as the famed 'Sleeping Beauty' of Greek sculptor Yannoulis Halepas. Continue your tour with the Koutouki Cave and its beautiful illuminated stalactites (verify opening hours, please), and the Monastery of Kesariani, where Greek brides come to drink water from the marble goat’s mouth – a fertility potion, according to legend. The Spathario Museum of Shadow Theatre has displays of shadow puppetry and showcases the traditional character Karagiozis. Still haven't found what you're looking for? Consider, perhaps, a three-hour Segway tour, a photographic walking tour (if you see life through a viewfinder), a round of golf in Glyfada, a visit to a huge amusement park (Allou), and a stop by the Attica Center of Worry Beads (no joke).
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Cinema Paradiso: Stars under the stars
Cinema Paradiso No other city has so many open-air cinemas! The scent of jasmine, the smell of souvlaki, a glass of icecold beer and Bruce Willis doing his thing on the screen, in a theatre with walls draped with fairytale ivy and bougainvillea. A screen big and bright, with comfortable chairs. The Athenian open-air movie theatre dates back to the 1950s, but has been updated with digital projectors and Dolby surround sound. Yet the technology goes unnoticed, wrapped in heavy layers of romance and nostalgia. 'Open air' also means that smoking is allowed. For the ultimate in latenight entertainment (the second show usually starts after 11:00 pm), take a stroll to Cine Thission, grab
a seat with twin views of both the screen and the Acropolis, fully lit in the background. Activate your mind’s time-travel machine and instead of just watching the movie, find yourself immersed in it. Visit www.athensattica.com and check the full list of open-air cinemas.
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A figure of speech
”Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something“ (Plato) “I’m a lover. I’m a fighter. A father. A husband. I whisper when I put the kids to sleep. I yell and honk when I drive. I’m a Marathon runner in a life-long run. I work seven 12-hour days. But I don’t live to work. I work to live. My drinking is moderate, my passion is not. My smoking, uh, forget it. I only have a frappé for breakfast. When I go shopping, I bargain a lot. I like Facebook but I have real friends. I take care of stray animals. I take care of my neighbours. When I talk to friends I use a lot of English words. When I talk to foreigners I use a lot of Greek words. I love foreigners and welcome them to my home, Athens. I’m addicted to my smartphone but not to text messaging. If I must have an argument, I do it face to face. I smile a lot. I have crow’s feet from smiling a lot. I’m old but I don’t feel a day older than 16. Like Socrates, I am a citizen, not of Athens or Greece, but of the world. I am your average Athenian and proud of it. And if you were ever told that Athens is the Acropolis or the Hilton, it isn’t. Athens is its people". 78
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All Greek to me
Athenians have a word for everything. Although English is also spoken here, understanding what is now Greek to you can get you a long way. Here are the basics: Hello, goodbye, cheers = ya-ssou (abbr.= yaaa!) Yes = neh No = oh-khe (or simply tsk) Please, welcome = pah-rah-kah-low Thank you = ef-khar-ee-stow How are you? = Tee-kah-nees Fine = kah-la What is your name? = pos-seh-leh-neh? My name is... = meh-leh-neh... I don’t understand Greek = then cat-ah-la-ven-oh eh-len-ee-kah Do you speak English? = Do you speak English? (!) Where is = poo ee-neh How much = pos-oh kah-nee It’s too much = ee-neh po-lee food = fag-ee-toh (abbrev.=faee) water = neh-ro bank = trap-ez-ah restaurant = restaur-an (!) bus = leh-oh-for-ee-oh toilet = toua-let-tah come / oh, come on = e-lah who is = pi-os eh-neh I don’t know = de-hn xe-ro Italics signify phonetic accent. Practise in front of your mirror. If you convince yourself that you sound like a Greek, you can convince an Athenian! 79
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There you have it. A detailed guide to Attica would have taken the space of an encyclopaedia. We wanted to give you a taste of what Athens has to offer, helping you with the tough decisions, guiding you among the labyrinth of choices. You may be leaving in a few days, but you will come back. Athens isn’t just live; it’s alive. And the farther away you are, the longer you stay away, the more it will grow on you. So, until the next time,
Yassou!
Publication & Copyright Owner: Region of Attica, March 2013. 1st Edition. Created by McCann Athens. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission obtained by the copyright owner. Permission to use this content must be also obtained from the copyright owner. ISBN: 978-960-87303-1-1 80
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