The Elsewhere Guide
Athens, Greece
The cradle of Western civilization, still very much alive
Athens is a city where ancient history and modern luxury dance in perfect harmony. As you stroll through its sun-drenched streets, the whispers of philosophers and gods linger in the air, while rooftop bars and Michelin-starred restaurants await to dazzle the senses. Whether you're gazing at the Acropolis from a private terrace or indulging in a sea breeze dinner, Athens promises an odyssey of opulence.
Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the perfect blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant cultural events.
Where to Stay
Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Syntagma Square
A storied palace of luxury overlooking the Acropolis, with a rooftop garden that offers the best views in Athens.
Why we love it: Its unparalleled views of the Acropolis from the rooftop bar are truly breathtaking.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
Vouliagmeni
Set on a private peninsula, this lavish retreat offers a serene escape with stunning sea views and impeccable service.
Why we love it: The private beach and its proximity to the vibrant nightlife of Vouliagmeni make it an irresistible choice.
King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Syntagma Square
An intimate and regal hotel with elegant rooms and a world-class restaurant, all steps away from Athens’ main attractions.
Why we love it: The old-world charm coupled with modern comforts creates a unique atmosphere.
Seven Days in Athens
In the Footsteps of the Ancients
Breakfast at GB Roof Garden Restaurant
Hotel Grande Bretagne
💡 Request a table with a view of the Acropolis.
Private tour of the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum
Acropolis
💡 Book an early slot to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Lunch at Dionysos Zonar's
Philopappos Hill
💡 Try the grilled octopus, a house specialty.
Relax at the hotel spa
Hotel Grande Bretagne
💡 Indulge in the signature olive oil massage.
Dinner at Funky Gourmet
Kerameikos
💡 Opt for the full tasting menu for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Start your journey with a blend of history and luxury, setting the tone for a week of indulgence.
Athenian Flavors and Sights
Breakfast at Tudor Hall
King George Hotel
💡 Try the fresh Greek yogurt with honey.
Private tour of the National Archaeological Museum
Exarchia
💡 Focus on the Mycenaean collection for a deep dive into ancient Greek art.
Lunch at Varoulko Seaside
Piraeus
💡 The sea urchin pasta is a must-try.
A walk through Plaka and Anafiotika
Plaka
💡 Discover the hidden stairways and scenic views.
Dinner at Spondi
Pangrati
💡 Book a table on the terrace for a romantic evening.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Greek history and cuisine.
Coastal Elegance and Saronic Beauty
Breakfast at Arion Spa & Resort
Vouliagmeni
💡 Enjoy breakfast with a sea view.
Private yacht tour of the Saronic Gulf
Vouliagmeni Marina
💡 Bring a swimsuit for a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Lunch at Ithaki Restaurant
Vouliagmeni
💡 The lobster pasta is legendary.
Relax by the pool at Four Seasons Astir Palace
Vouliagmeni
💡 Try a signature cocktail at the pool bar.
Dinner at Matsuhisa Athens
Vouliagmeni
💡 Reserve a table on the terrace for sunset views.
Experience the pristine beauty of Athens' coastal areas and indulge in world-class dining.
Art and Fashion in Kolonaki
Breakfast at Clementine Athens
Kolonaki
💡 Try their house-made pastries.
Private guided shopping tour of Kolonaki
Kolonaki
💡 Visit local boutiques for exclusive fashion finds.
Lunch at Papadakis
Kolonaki
💡 The sea bass ceviche is a standout dish.
Visit the Benaki Museum
Kolonaki
💡 Don't miss the Byzantine art collection.
Dinner at Hytra
Neos Kosmos
💡 Enjoy the panoramic view of Athens from the terrace.
A day dedicated to the sophisticated art and fashion scene of Athens' chicest neighborhood.
Athenian Riviera and Temple of Poseidon
Breakfast at your hotel
Four Seasons Astir Palace
Private drive along the Athenian Riviera
Vouliagmeni to Sounion
💡 Stop at Lake Vouliagmeni for a quick dip.
Lunch at Taverna Elias
Sounion
💡 The grilled calamari is exceptional.
Visit the Temple of Poseidon
Cape Sounion
💡 Catch the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Sunset cocktail at Island Club Restaurant
Varkiza
💡 Enjoy the live DJ sets on weekends.
A day of scenic drives and historic marvels, ending with a sunset over the Aegean Sea.
Cultural Immersion in Psyri
Breakfast at Zampano
Psyri
💡 Their eggs benedict is a local favorite.
Street art and cultural tour of Psyri
Psyri
💡 Look out for the hidden murals by local artists.
Lunch at Oineas
Psyri
💡 The lamb kleftiko is a must-try.
Visit the Museum of Islamic Art
Psyri
💡 The rooftop offers a stunning view of the Acropolis.
Dinner at Aleria
Metaxourgeio
💡 Opt for the wine pairing with your meal.
Explore the vibrant and artistic heart of Athens, discovering its modern cultural pulse.
A Final Taste of Athens
Brunch at The Zillers
Monastiraki
💡 Enjoy a coffee with a view of the Acropolis.
Private guided tour of the Ancient Agora
Monastiraki
💡 Focus on the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved temples.
Lunch at Kuzina
Thissio
💡 The moussaka here is renowned.
Shopping at Ermou Street
Monastiraki
💡 Look for unique Greek designer pieces.
Farewell dinner at GB Roof Garden Restaurant
Hotel Grande Bretagne
💡 Toast to a memorable trip with their signature cocktail.
Conclude your Athenian adventure with a blend of history, shopping, and a final farewell to the city's stunning skyline.
The Table
Restaurants that define the destination.
Funky Gourmet
✦✦A two-Michelin-starred experience that pushes the boundaries of Greek cuisine.
Spondi
✦✦This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is a temple of haute gastronomy.
Varoulko Seaside
✦Michelin-starred seafood with a view of the Piraeus port.
Hytra
✦A Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Greek cuisine with breathtaking city views.
Aleria
Combines traditional Greek flavors with contemporary techniques in a stunning neoclassical setting.
Matsuhisa Athens
World-renowned Nobu Matsuhisa's signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine.
Papadakis
Celebrated for its modern take on traditional Greek seafood.
Kuzina
Offers a unique twist on Greek cuisine with views of the Acropolis.
Make It Extraordinary
Experiences beyond the obvious.
Private Yacht Tour of the Saronic Gulf
Set sail on a luxury yacht to explore the pristine waters and hidden coves of the Saronic Gulf.
Street Art and Cultural Tour of Psyri
Uncover the vibrant street art scene and cultural history of one of Athens' most eclectic neighborhoods.
Guided Shopping Tour of Kolonaki
Discover Athens' high-end boutiques and artisanal shops with a local fashion expert.
Spa Day at Hotel Grande Bretagne
Indulge in a day of pampering with bespoke treatments in the luxurious surroundings of this iconic hotel.
Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon
Experience the magic of a sunset at one of Greece's most iconic ancient sites.
Athens is a city that rewards the discerning traveler with its rich history, vibrant culture, and luxurious offerings. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or savoring a sunset dinner, Athens promises an unforgettable journey for those who seek the extraordinary.
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