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Demokratia (“power to the people”) as a form of government was first introduced in Athens under Cleisthenes (570–507 BC). All free, male, adult citizens of Athenian birth were entitled to attend the Assembly – which met on the Pnyx Hill – and thus participate in political decision-making. The Assembly gathered about 40 times a year, and 6,000 citizens needed to be present to make a vote valid.

The greatest Greek orator (384–322 BC) overcame a speech impediment by talking with pebbles in his mouth.

Two blue-fronted buildings comprise this popular ouzeri and psarotaverna, with lovely views from its seafront terrace.

The best budget option in Nafplio. These rooms in the old city are plain and spare, but clean, and there’s a great sea view from the sitting area on the roof. All rooms have televisions, but most share a bathroom. No A/C, but fans and the high location keep things cool.

This wide, tree-lined walkway provides a continuous pedestrian link between all the major archaeological sites in central Athens, and has several openair cafés.

A favourite with the international backpacking set. Dorms and private rooms that sleep up to four are usually packed in summer, but students and young people don’t seem to mind, instead enjoying the festive atmosphere. Most gather to enjoy a beer in the garden out back at the day’s end.

Food market denizens fill the place with smoke and laughter. Point to your pick in the kitchen, and fill your glass from barrels on the wall.

A mere stone’s throw from the Acropolis, this hotel is popular with well-heeled Greeks, keen on the profusion of gilt, mirrors and potted palms. Drinks and buffets are served on the roof garden in summer, and there’s a preserved section of the ancient Themistoklean Wall in the basement.

A vast seaside hotel, the spacious rooms adorned with oak furniture and marble bathrooms. The complex gives onto a private beach, and there are also out- and indoor pools. A shuttle bus serves Plateia Syntagma.

The lobby is decorated with antiques and marble, the rooms fitted out with every business amenity. There are restaurants and bars, and a rooftop garden with an indoor/outdoor pool. A free shuttle takes you to Syntagma, and 35 of the rooms have Acropolis views.