USEFUL INFORMATION

Sunshine in Athens

Athens is an ideal year-round city travel destination. Helios, the sun god in Greek mythology, smiles upon its streets over 300 days a year affording visitors pleasant travel and sightseeing weather. The summers (June-August) are hot and recommended for diehard sun worshippers. September is often considered the ideal month for both urban activities and island escapes. The Mediterranean climate makes for mild winters. In Athens, sunshine and outdoor living is almost always a given; no matter what time of year!

Gastronomy in Athens

Culinary aficionados are encouraged to delight in the myriad of sophisticated restaurants that boast tastes and interiors inspired from all parts of the world. The local and traditional outdoor seaside tavernas and cafes are plentiful and a cultural mainstay. Nibble on mouth-watering and healthy Greek delicacies and desserts. Try the many fine and affordable Greek wine varieties; sip ouzo or the unique iced Greek coffee, frappé, as you overlook breathtaking sea vistas. Rooftop bars can compete with some of the world's most renowned. Can they claim a view of the Acropolis?

Entertainment in Athens

The Arts

Cultured evenings featuring performing arts, cinema, ancient Greek tragedies and comedies can be enjoyed under the stars during the warm months. Outdoor cinemas show the best foreign and mainstream movies. A spectacular evening is sure to be had at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus or Herodeio, at the foot of the illuminated Acropolis. Built in 161 A.D., this archeological site hosts some of the summer's most outstanding artistic events. In the fall and winter months, The Athens Concert Hall welcomes top artists, composers and ensembles from all over the world.

Bars & Clubs

No need to wait for the weekend to enjoy nightlife in Athens. The Athenians like to party and will do so almost every night of the week. The Greeks are known for their love-of-life lifestyle. A sort of OPA! mentality that includes good food and good company, regardless of age. In Athens life is for living and leaving your worries behind. The result is a good-hearted, energetic city with late night venues scattered throughout its many urban and suburban neighborhoods. Hip neighborhoods include Gazi, Psyrri and Kolonaki. Traditional Greek evenings can be spent in Plaka.

Shopping in Athens

Shopping in Athens reflects its old and new world culture. A stroll down the cobblestone streets of Monastiraki and Plaka, offers traditional Greek wares indigenous to its history. Handmade goods such as leather sandals, bags, woven rugs, intricate tablecloths, linens and carpets are sure to be appreciated upon your return home. Don't miss the open-air bazaar at Avissinia square on Sundays for one-of-a-kind Hellenic antiques. Fashionistas, head to the shops on Ermou Street and Kolonaki for exclusive designer boutiques where you will find shoes, bags, tops and T-shirts that will make your friends envious.