Indulge in a boundless adventure and prepare to be amazed while strolling around the Greek capital.
Athens will try to seduce you right from the beginning of your short getaway. You won’t believe the immediate impact that the historical capital of Greece will have on you, as it is brimming with character and showcases prestigious five star accommodation, exquisite fine dining and world-class shopping at its best. Travel in time and become for a while a citizen of the fascinating city that has kept people mystified for millenia. Explore timeless architecture and chic boutiques alongside intriguing culture. Enjoy Michelin star cuisine or lounge around the indoor swimming pool at the Hotel Grande Bretagne – it is so relaxing that you will never want to leave. Spend some time at the Athenian Riviera, discover the best of Peloponnese, visit some of the city’s most extraordinary museums, experience the ancient world as the Greeks knew it and discover why Athens is the perfect choice for unforgettable holidays.
When you think of a short getaway there are a few destinations, such as Athens, that will never fail in delivering a great city break experience. From outstanding architecture to history, popular culture to art and design, entertainment and great food as well as the endless stream of events year round, there is always something to interest you in the historical capital of Europe which is considered to be a top choice for cosmopolitan travelers year after year. Unfortunately, you don’t have too much time on your hands and you are not a fan of maps. What if there was a local to tell you how to avoid the tourist traps? A long-term resident who could provide you with an insider’s guide to the city? Someone who could show you how to do Greece like a Greek? Problem solved! This trip is especially designed for you. And so the mystery begins.
Your journey won’t last long. You will leave wanting more. Well, that’s the thing, all good things come to an end. Unless, of course, you return. In that case, Athens will be waiting for you.
of ancient history with your arrival in Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece. This is one of the world’s oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning around 3,400 years and it is widely referred to as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Get to know all about the cosmopolitan metropolis through the guided “First Scents” city walking tour, which includes a stroll along Plaka, the Neighborhood of Gods. You will have a fine dinner at a hand-picked restaurant, in Thissio area. The menu is inspired by local traditional recipes, while its roof bar offers an amazing view at Acropolis and Ifestos Temple.
especially designed for you. Walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street on the south side of the Acropolis and pass the ancient Theatre of Dionysus, where most of the works by Sophocles, Euripides, Aeschylus and Aristophanes were performed. Climb up to the sacred rock of the Acropolis, the site of some of the most important masterpieces of worldwide architecture and art, the most renowned of which is the Parthenon temple. Only 300m away stands the impressive Acropolis Museum, which houses 4,000 priceless finds. Stroll around Syntagma Square, the Exarheia area and Kolonaki, which is considered to be the most aristocratic neighborhood of Athens, to explore the best flavors in the city. Your gastronomy tour ends with a delicious dinner at a Michelin star awarded restaurant.
You don’t need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital and explore the elite shores of the Athenian Riviera. Begin your day at “Astir Beach” in Vouliagmeni. With its shallow, delicately turquoise water, smooth sand, excellent facilities and blue flag certification for cleanliness, it is one of Attica’ s most luxurious and popular beaches and it is considered to be a unique seaside experience since 1959. Afterwards, you will have lunch at a modern mediterranean restaurant which is well known for its fresh fish and has the privilege of a breathtaking location at an exclusive area of the south coast. Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing.
CULTURE ALL THE WAY
Visit the monumental “Iliou Melahtron”, the Nomismatic Museum of Athens. Its name means the Palace of Troy as it is dedicated to the extraordinary personality of Heinrich Schliemann, the father of Mycenaean archaeology and his love for antiquity. The two-storey neoclassical building was designed in 1978 by the German architect Ernst Ziller and today it houses one of the greatest collection of ancient and modern coins in the world. Move to the Benaki Museum to explore more than 40,000 items illustrating the character of the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama from the age of Roman till today. The dining area is located on the 2nd floor and extends out to the terrace of the neoclassical building, where there is a panoramic view of the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill and the National Gardens. Your evening includes a handpicked performance - theatre, opera or concert.
INDULGE ALL THE WAY
The Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum is a unique museum devoted to the art of jewelry and the decorative arts. Its permanent collection includes over 4000 pieces of jewelry and micro sculptures from over 50 collections designed by the museum’s founder between 1940 and 2000. Visit the museum shop which is a must as it includes souvenirs, posters, publications and articles for sale. Re-energize mind, body and soul in what is probably the most opulent environment you will find anywhere in the city. At the heart of the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne, the multi-awarded GB Spa will welcome you with a fresh innovative approach to total well being. You will be experiencing the finest spa session devoted to your pampering and relaxation. In the end, enjoy your lunch at an amazing bistro, located in the heart of Athens.
You are free to spend the rest of your trip as you wish. When you are ready to wave goodbye, you will get picked up and transferred to Athens airport where you will catch your flight to your home destination. Athens will always be there for you when you wish to return.
Price available upon request. To get started creating your one of a kind private journey call +30 2103668830 or email: luxurytravel@afea.gr
The proposed itinerary for Day 3 is for summertime only. AFEA offers an amazing winter version as well. Please do contact one of our Private Travel Specialists to find out the unique winter activities we have planned for you, or create your one of a kind tailor made journey.