Athens 101

This is a three-day, four-night tour, which takes in the major sites of Greece’s historic capital. We discuss and appreciate the ‘miracle’ of Classical Athens – the foundation of western art and democracy – and why it remains so important to this day. Throughout the tour, we also feast on the best that Athens has to offer: from fish tavernas to local markets to modern Greek fine dining.

The first day involves a walking tour of central Athens, including the ancient agora, the Plaka district and the lovely Pnyx hill, full of flowers in spring. After lunch in a neighbourhood taverna we visit the highlights of the National Archaeological Museum, including the famous 'Mask of Agamemnon', the bronze statue of Zeus and the phenomenal collection of ancient Greek pottery. The second day is devoted to the Acropolis, with a visit to the state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum and an early morning entry to the site, to avoid the crowds. After a leisurely lunch, we will wander past the 'Kallimarmaro' - the site of the first modern Olympic Games - and, depending on our mood, take a tour of the Benaki Museum or enjoy a ride in the funicular railway up the Lykavettos Hill for stunning views of the city. On the third day we leave Athens in a private minibus to visit the surrounding area - a Byzantine monastery, a little-visited ancient temple, and, after a fish lunch right on the sea, the grand finale of the stunning temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. 

Recommended time to visit: October to April. Athens is at its best in late autumn and early spring.