Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. Athens dominates the Attica region and is one of the world’s oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning around 3,400 years.
A large part of the town’s historic centre has been converted into a 3-kilometre pedestrian zone (the largest in Europe), leading to the major archaeological sites (“archaeological park”), reconstructing – to a large degree – the ancient landscape.
The core of the historic centre is the Plaka neighborhood (at the eastern side of the Acropolis), which has been continuously inhabited since antiquity. When you walk through the narrow labyrinthine streets lined with houses and mansions from the time of the Turkish occupation and the neoclassical period (19th c.), you will have the impression of travelling back in time. Moreover, if you wish to leave the centre behind you, you may visit, among others, the neighboring town of Piraeus, with its array of three small marinas and its lovely Town Hall Square, also home to the Municipal Theatre of Piraeus that is housed in a beautiful, recently renovated, neoclassical building.
Take a day cruise from Athens to the fabulous Greek islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina for a relaxing day on the sea. Aegina is one of the islands in the Saronic Gulf. The lovely island is only 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Athens, and is a popular getaway for Athenians during the summer months. Hydra, the most quaint of the three islands – mainly due to the lack of cars and large vehicles – never fails to enchant its visitors, with its traditional architecture, positive vides and crystal clear waters. Poros, smallest of the three islands, is full of natural beauty and makes for an ideal place to take a lovely waterfront walk.