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Weightlifting is Greece’s most successful international sport – the team bagged five medals in Sydney. The lifting arena was one of the first Olympic venues planned for 2004, and organizers claimed that the 5,000-seat hall was the biggest venue ever built for showcasing weightlifting.

This bright, modern, stylish hotel, run by the Grecotel chain, is one of the projects aimed at sprucing up Plateia Omonia. So far, it has gained a good name for the hip decor, comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

Most of these one- and two-bedroom apartments are quite luxurious, fitted out with antiques, chandeliers and views of the Saronic Gulf. In addition to a pool, Jacuzzi and business facilities, there are also well appointed public spaces and a garden.

Check out a wide selection of the latest and trendiest designer shades at this small, well-stocked shop, where the staff are knowledgeable and the prices reasonable.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the capital while feasting on creative Mediterranean and fusion cuisine at the top of Lykavittos Hill.

Watch the glittering nighttime cityscape from Orizontes on Lykavittos Hill. (see Orizontes)

This is a contender for the most beautiful monastery in Greece, with its idyllic location, looking across a valley to the soaring Elikonas mountain range, and fine Byzantine frescoes within. The interiors of the two distinct 11th-century churches are covered in marvellous mosaic and marble icons and decorations.

Under the Turks, cultural activities and art were stifled, but folk arts persisted, incorporating and transforming some aspects from the conqueror’s culture, including intricate silver jewellery and metalwork and colourful rugs, tapestries and embroideries.

The Ottoman Turks took Athens in 1458, and the city became a provincial backwater. After bombarding the Parthenon, the Venetians held the city briefly in 1687. Then, during the 18th century, English and French artists and writers visited Athens as part of the Grand Tour, signalling its reawakening but also walking off with many ancient artworks.

Greece wouldn’t be the same without this spirit. Drunk with mezes, this aniseed flavoured distillate packs a powerful punch.