Athens starts at your door

Some cities you visit. Athens you live in - and never quite get enough of. One of the oldest cities in the world, with recorded history going back to 3200 BC, it is still writing it. Full of contrasts: ancient monuments alongside vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class museums alongside rising restaurants, historic streets alongside contemporary concept stores. In recent years it has become one of Europe's most popular city break destinations, with award-winning restaurants, wine bars, galleries and a nightlife that doesn't wind down easily. For anyone drawn to culture, Athens delivers one of the richest experiences anywhere - from the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum to the Athens Concert Hall and the National Gallery, the city keeps finding new ways to surprise you.

The oldest walk in the city. Still the best. Start at the Acropolis and the Parthenon, then continue to the Acropolis Museum, one of the most important archaeological museums in Europe. Right next door, Plaka: Athens' only surviving traditional neighbourhood, with historic churches, tavernas and folk art shops worth getting lost in. Don't miss Anafiotika, small 19th-century houses that could pass for the Cyclades. From there, walk down Dionysiou Areopagitou and reach Thissio, where the Ancient and Roman Agora are waiting with 2,500 years of history underfoot.

Athens has something for every taste and every budget. In Kolonaki, right next to Alexandros, boutiques, concept stores and international names sit alongside Greek designers worth a detour. Voukourestiou is where you go for jewellery and luxury brands - take your time. Ermou, one of the world's great pedestrian shopping streets, covers everything else. In Monastiraki, the flea market rewards those who like to dig. And if you prefer a department store or a mall, Athens has both - one in the city centre, two in Maroussi area.