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.

Lykavittos Hill

Steep Lykavittos Hill juts high out of Kolonaki, and the church at its peak is visible for miles around. Every summer, the Lykavittos Festival hosts a variety of top musicians from around the world in the theatre close to the church; there’s nothing like watching Bob Dylan or Guru with the sun going down over Athens behind them (see Lykavittos Festival (Jun–Sep)). A smart caférestaurant nestles below the church. If you are very, very ambitious, walk up – otherwise, take the funicular from Aristipou.
Lykavittos Hill

Several pleasant footpaths run through pine-clad Lykavittos Hill. If you’re feeling energetic, hike to the top; if climbing’s not for you, take the funicular up and saunter down, stopping at the café for a drink. (see Lykavittos Hill)
Lykavittos Theatre

Hillside theatre showcasing top-notch musical acts, from rock to classical (see Lykavittos Hill).
L’Abreuvoir

Traditional French cuisine is offered in style at this established Athenian society haunt. Specializes in meat dishes with extravagant sauces.
Mai Tai

Cool people, nice atmosphere and fantastic music if you fancy a bit of dance. If you dont fancy that you can just go down the road to the rock cafe, a trendy bar with people of all ages.
Maistrali

Popular fish taverna, packed with locals and tourists enjoying huge portions of charcoal-grilled fish and a wide selection of ouzo and tsipouro.
Mamacas

Taverna food made stylish, but with a deep respect for its most important element: bright, fresh flavour. (see Mamacas)
Mamacas

Classic taverna fare in the revitalized industrial district. A celebrity favourite.
Marathonas

In 490 BC, the Marathon plain was the site of one of history’s most important battles. There, an army of 10,000 Greeks and Plataeans defeated 25,000 Persians, preserving the newly founded first democracy. A tomb to the 192 Greek soldiers who fell (in comparison to 6,000 Persians) still stands here. After the victory, Pheidippidis ran the 42 km (26 miles) to Athens to announce the outcome, then collapsed dead on the spot. A museum here displays finds from the area.
Marble House Pension

A favourite of students and artists, Marble House has clean, simple rooms and a friendly attitude. It offers discounted tours and monthly rates in the off season. Guests pay extra for air conditioning and private bath.

Jump to top

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
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €100
- €100-€150
- €150-€250
- €250-€350
- over €350