DK Travel : Athens

Athens is simultaneously known as the Classical, marble-pillared cradle of Western civilization and as a modern urban sprawl of concrete and traffic. Between the extremes lies a kaleidoscopic city, where the influences of East and West entwine in the markets, cafés and tavernas, built upon ancient ruins and rubbing shoulders with gold-leafed Byzantine churches.

Hydra

Lovely Hydra town, its cobbled paths winding among old mansions clustered around the clear-watered harbour, is one of Greece’s most beautiful spots. Its popularity as a celebrity getaway and movie backdrop hasn’t dampened its charm.
Hytra

Mediterranean cuisine in a minimalist dining space brought to hip Psiri by the owners of Spondi.
Icon

Byzantine and Christian images of saints, believed to be imbued with holy power, often painted with gold.
Iguana

The young in search of adventure hang out at this bar-nightclub, which plays out disco and techno tracks until 6am – time for an early breakfast. Order water on the terrace if it all gets too much.
Ilari Galaktozaharoplasteio

The name – which translates as Ilari dairy and pastry shop – is a mouthful, and so are the delicious traditional Greek sweets sold here. The specialities are old-fashioned puddings.
Independence Day (25 Mar)

Full-on military parades with tanks, guns and battalions celebrate the date in 1821 when, after nearly 400 years of occupation, the Greek revolution successfully rose up against the Ottoman Empire.
Irakleidon

Lined with cafés, bars and hipsters, this street feels both old-world and fresh, and bustles day and night.
Island, Varkiza

Ritzy Athenians don’t mind driving well over an hour out of the city to reach this beautiful seaside club. The Mediterranean fusion food and sushi are only part of it – stay on to enjoy the late-night dancing.
Isthmia

Much of the ancient site has been destroyed, but archaeology fanatics will still want to see the Sanctuary of Poseidon and the stadium that hosted the Panhellenic Games.
Istioploikos

One of the hip places to see and be seen, this vast (and packed) rooftop bar commands a vantage point above the yachting marina.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30-€40
- €40-€50
- €50-€60
- €over €60