Hotels in Athens

Verified by Pau García Solbes
from the blog El Pachinko

Located in south central Greece in the region of Attica Athens is the national capital. It is one of the world’s oldest cities with history having recorded it from as far back as 3,400 years. Setting out the foundations of Western Civilization, Athens was a powerful city state heading up a large empire whose influence stretched across Western Europe, Central Asia, and North Africa.

The ancient landmarks of Athens are instantly recognisable, and this is the city of Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch, and Diogenes. It is the spiritual home of the Olympics and has hosted the games twice. Athens is the southernmost capital on the European mainland and the warmest major city in Europe. Today it is a wonderful mix of classical and cool with a population of 3.8 million.

Having been on the bucket list of everyone since the idea of travelling as a leisure activity began, Athens welcomes visitors with a wide selection of budget friendly accommodations in hotels, hostels, and B&Bs.

Neighbourhoods of Athens

Athens consists of a number of colourful, lively neighbourhoods, each with their own characteristics:

• Plaka:sitting on and below the eastern slopes of the Acropolis, Plaka is the heart of Old Athens. It’s the busiest tourist area and its narrow streets of pastel-coloured houses are peppered with souvenir shops and tavernas. Enclosed within Plaka is the neighbourhood of Anafiotika It was created by workers from the island of Anafi and their whitewashed houses wind up the slopes of the famous hill.
• Syntagma: The political and ceremonial heart of modern Athens, this is a popular tourist area. Its dominated by the former royal palace which now serves as the Greek Parliament building. Its most famous sight is the changing of the Presidential Guard in front of the Monument to the Unknown Soldier so distinctive because of the uniforms of the high-stepping Evzones of white skirts and leggings, red berets, and pompom shoes.
• Monastiraki and Psyrri: The narrow lanes of Monastiraki throng with locals and tourists browsing the daily flea market where anything is sold and bought. After shopping, people usually head to Psyrri for its trendy cafes and bars and its lively night-time scene at includes venues with live music.
• Exarcheia:Although gentrification Is being attempted, Exarcheia stubbornly remains gritty and unconventional, popular with students and advocates of subversive and alternative culture. It is also, however, home to the utterly splendid National Archaeological Museum.
• Kolonaki:Spread over the lower slopes of Lycabettus Hill, this is Athens’ upmarket retail district. Famous names adorn the shop signs here and streets are lined with sidewalk cafes.
• Piraeus: Athens’s port is the largest passenger port in Europe and second largest in the world. 7 miles from the city centre, it’s a source of wonder for anyone with a maritime interest.

What to see and do in Athens

Oh, so many sights, where do you start? The city is blessed with fascinating museums and fabulous archaeological and historical sights. An absolute must-visit is the Acropolis, the mountain which overlooks the city, atop which sits the ancient Parthenon temple, considered the world’s greatest masterpiece of Doric architecture. Other ancient temple sites include the Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Old Temple of Athena. Other historical sites include the Dionysus Theatre and the Stoa of Attios.

What to eat in Athens

The food in Athens represents Greek food in general and eating out is a popular pastime. Tourist areas sell various versions of the most popular and recognisable dishes which include moussaka a layered dish of aubergines, mince and sauce, gyros, much like a kebab, it’s pitta filled with things like souvlaki (grilled pork or chicken), or saganaki (cheese). Tavernas serve up meze (a collection of small dishes like tapas), spanakopita (spinach and feta pie>, and the ubiquitous Greek salad.

Typical events and festivals in Athens

Athens is the stage for a diverse series of events and festivals. The cover ancient and modern and include the Open-Air Film Festival, Technopolis Jazz Festival, Full Moon Festival when the ancient monuments stay open through the night, and the Epidaurus Festival, a highly-acclaimed cultural event.

How to move around in Athens

The Athens public transport system is affordable, reliable, and covers most of the city and suburbs. The Athens Metro system consists of 3 lines and connects to the tram, bus routes, and suburban railway. One ticket covers all forms of transport.

The climate in Athens

Athens has a Mediterranean climate. The peak travel period is May to September when it is hot and dry. Winters are mild with little rainfall although snowfall is not rare.