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

The winding paths of the lush National Gardens are a great place to stroll. In 1839, when this was a royal park, the landscape was densely planted with 15,000 exotic trees and flowers imported from around the world; many of those original plants still flourish. (see National Gardens)

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)

Kallidromiou is the heart of Exarcheia, especially on Saturdays, when the whole neighbourhood turns out for the open-air laiki (farmer’s market). Soak up the sights of the street and buy some fresh fruit before heading to nearby Strefi Hill (see Strefi Hill) for a healthy climb and bite to eat.

This natural harbour at Piraeus is full of local fishing boats and yachts. Stroll around the marina, ending up on the east side, in front of the Nautical Museum, or come after dark when the many waterside cafés come to life. (see Pasalimani)

Follow the winding paths to different monuments: two Byzantine churches, a Roman memorial and Athens’ old observatory. And, at the summit of this shady hill, extensive views over and beyond the city. (see Filopappos Hill)

Fourth-century BC Panathenaic athletes and the runners of the first modern Olympics in 1896 ran laps in the sweltering centre of this beautiful marble stadium. Modern joggers and walkers love the shady path on top of the 70,000-seat edifice. (see Kallimarmaro Stadium)

Athens’ largest park is a good retreat on blistering city days. Older people crowd the benches while children play soccer around the statues. As you leave, go through the walkway lined with busts of Greece’s War of Independence heroes. (see Pediou tou Areos)

The shopping street. Start at the top, with designer boutiques and department stores, then make your way down to the funkier end, most obviously when Sunday’s flea market (see Athens’ Flea Market) fills the street. Beyond it are loads of quirky used-furniture, antique and speciality shops.

Take a contemplative walk through the wide, overgrown rows of handsome mausoleums in Athens’ largest cemetery. It is thickly planted with cypress trees, whose tall, pointed shape Greeks believe helps guide souls up to heaven.