Upcoming Event
09 Dec 2011 - 23 Apr 2012
A travel to smaller islands in the Aegean sea, where we will have a presentation of their geography and hitory. Islands are Symi, Halki, Tilos, Nissiros, and Kastelorizo.
Gia Sas & Welcome to Athens!
Charming and lively, Athens attracts thousands of tourists every year, and for good reason. History buffs are impressed with the many ancient sites and museums galore. Lovers of fine food and wine will never want to leave. Whilst families will enjoy the friendly, easy-going nature of the Greeks, and the multitude of things to keep the kids happy. As a local company in Athens we take great pride in offering a range of accommodation options, including small traditional guest houses to the more modern Athens hotels.
Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom, Athens is a city with that has had an immense influence on Western civilisation!
According to legend, Athena conquered this city after defeating Poseidon in a battle. Athena's victory was celebrated by constructing a temple for her on the Acropolis, the site of the early settlement of Attica. After falling into general malaise and disrepair, and plagued by traffic and pollution, Athens has bounced back since the recent 2004 Olympic Games, which prompted a flurry of development and the building of some new Athens hotels. The best way to enjoy the Athenian atmosphere is on foot; this way you can avoid getting stuck in a vehicle in chaotic traffic.
Most of the great classical buildings in Athens, such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion and Hephaisteion, were built during the height of Athens' glory years, in the fifth century BC. It was not just the construction of classical buildings that indicated the success of Athens. This period and this city also witnessed the birth of democracy, the foundations of Western philosophy were conceived by Socrates, and inspired drama flourished.
Many people come to Athens for a brief look at the classical buildings, before heading off to one of the tempting Greek Islands. However, there is a lot to see and do in Athens and definitely more than enough to keep an intrepid traveller occupied in Athens, especially one willing to dig a little under the surface. The Plaka district, with its cafes, restaurants and tavernas, is especially pleasant, offering a glimpse of a traditional, village-like atmosphere. The city is diverse within itself too, with various tours in Athens you can enjoy. Plus, numerous museums and public places have been renovated or given face-lifts recently, making Athens a city to enjoy once again!
There are many interesting places to stay in Athens and you can use our Athens map to help you choose one of the hotels in Athens based on its location. Athens is divided into various districts, but the one of major interest to visitors is Syntagma (Constitution Square). Syntagma is located at the centre of the city, and almost all the major sights of Athens are located close by. Although, inevitably, perhaps, this part of the city is now heavily commercialised, it is also one of the most pleasant places in Athens to wander around. Interesting architecture, friendly and busy tavernas, good value Athens hotels and the requisite souvenir shops all stand side by side on the narrow, winding streets and alleyways.
Another major tourist area, located nearby to Syntagma, is the area around the Acropolis and Lykavitts Hill. The area below the hill is quite interesting to visit, as it recreates the atmosphere of a Greek village. This area, known as Anafitika, also houses a number of the better museums, especially specialist museums, in Athens and all of Greece.
Visitors to Athens can embark on a gastronomic adventure, alternating between the city's up-market restaurants and buying koulouri and souvlaki from a street vendor for a quick snack. Greek cuisine mainly consists of olive oil, fish and lamb cooked with fragrant herbs and spices.
It is a pleasure to shop in Athens. A wide range of items from all over Greece are available here and make great souvenirs. Gold and silver jewellery, leather goods, local culinary delights, handicrafts, flokati rugs of fluffy sheep wool, onyx, alabaster, furs, art items, pottery and marble make great buys.
The modern city of Athens was born in 1834, as it was re-instated as the capital of Greece, a newly independent country. After the Greek-Turkish war, Greek refugees caused a population explosion. Rapid expansion and construction, along with the Mediterranean climate, have created a city that suffers badly from urban sprawl, traffic and choking pollution. However, the 2004 Olympic Games provided an incentive for the authorities to clean up some of the worse aspects of Athens. The major projects developed during this time were the extension of the Athens metro system, upgrading of museums and Athens hotels, building of the new Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, the revitalization of the Piraeus port area and building of new sports venues.
Athens attracts visitors with its relaxed lifestyle and vibrant street life. Here, people have time for evening strolls, endless coffees and love to dine out till late in the night enjoying the nightlife of Athens, long after the rest of Europe has retired for the night. Although Athenians lament and debate about their city's shortcomings, they wouldn't like to live anywhere else. Before travelling to Athens be sure to check the latest Athens Weather with our Athens Weather Forecast!
This Athens Hotel Booking Service is locally owned by Opta Travel. For the most up-to-date and personalised information, you can't go past a local Athenian. Whether you'd like to know where to find the most unique Athens hotels and accommodation, a good Athens tour, a proper traditional Greek meal or just some detailed transportation information, we are happy to help.
Accommodation
Location: Athens
Athens Lycabettus
Location: Athens
From: EUR 100
Athens Lycabettus Hotel is a small hotel, very well located in the center of Athens, in the pedestrian street, where all business men and city life are gathering.
[more info]Summer discount [Valid from 01 Jul 2012 to 31 Aug 2012]
Titania Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 75
The four star Titania Hotel is ideally situated in the centre of Athens, between Omonia and Syntagma Squares, the two most well-known squares in Athens, and very close to all the main attractions in the city.
[more info]St. Georges Lycabettus
Location: Athens
From: EUR 152
St. Georges Lycabettus is located in the chic area of Kolonaki, in the centre of Athens, on the foot of the Lycabettus Hill. Its central location offers many possibilities to visit museums, or walk to Plaka or the Acropolis area. There is also the possibility of walking to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of Athens.
[more info]
Grande Bretagne Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 241
Centrally located, facing the Syntagma Square and the Parliament, the neoclassical Grande Bretagne Hotel is one of the oldest places in town. Built in 1874, it was the house of the royal family, before it was transformed into a hotel.
[more info]Stay 4 and pay 3 [Valid from 06 Dec 2011 to 30 Apr 2012]
Economy Hotel Athens
Location: Athens
From: EUR 40
The Economy Hotel is situated in between Omonia square and Monastiraki, in the central market area of Athens. A family-run hotel, the Economy Hotel is famed for its great service and the fantastic view of the Acropolis from the hotel's roof top.
[more info]Apollon Egina
Location: Egina island
From: EUR 53
The beach hotel Apollon Egina is located in the picturesque fishing village of Perdika. It is only seven minutes from the village of Agia Marina and 15 minutes from the main port of the island. Situated in a natural environment and surrounded by pine trees, the hotel affords amazing views of the Saronic Golf and welcomes the guests to a dreamy holiday.
[more info]Danae
Location: Egina islandThe Danae Hotel is located along the coastal road of Egina, one km from the center of the town, and only 50 meters from the beach.
[more info]Moondy Bay
Location: Egina islandThe hotel is located on the way to Perdika, a small fishing port on the beach, surrounded by pine trees. The site offers fresh air near the sea, and under the hot sun.
[more info]Trekking in Greek islands Tinos and Andros
From: EUR 917per package
Tinos and Andros are two different islands to visit for Trekking. Each one has its own paths, beaches, small rivers, architecture of houses, and local culture. The guide will be from the beginning to the end and you will discover great landscapes.
The package includes the guide, the transfers, the boat, the hotels, and breakfast, lunches and dinners.
[more info]Islands of Athens - Day Cruise with transfers
From: EUR 85 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
On this tour, visitors will have the opportunity to visit three islands in one day.
[more info]Tour of Ancient Argolida with lunch
From: EUR 80 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
This one day excursion takes guests to the site of the oldest civilization in Greece and to other important sights around Athens region.
[more info]Tour of Delphi with lunch
From: EUR 85 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
This one day excursion to Delphi will take guests to what was once believed to be the centre of the earth.
[more info]Sightseeing of Athens Tour + Acropolis
From: EUR 60 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
This tour offers the opportunity for travelers to visit the most famous monuments of Athens, including the Acropolis site and the new museum.
[more info]Cap Sounion Tour
From: EUR 40 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
On this tour, guests will be taken to visit the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy the magnificent view of the Coast of Appolon.
[more info]Ancient Corynth
From: EUR 55 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
An opportunity to visit one of the most Greek cities, of Ancient times, the Ancient Corynth, which was a commercial place. St. Paul also used to leave and preach in this city.
[more info]Acropolis museum semi private
From: EUR 80 / person(assuming 2 travellers)
A semi private tour of the new Acropolis museum has a lot treasure of western civilization. If you are short of time, this visit will take you only 90 minutes, with a licensed guide.
[more info]Bike Athens City Tour
From: EUR 36 / person(assuming 15 travellers)
The best ecological and quick way to visit Athens with a local guide. Ride a bike for 2 hours around the best places in Athens, historical and modern places, with a refreshment break.
[more info]Adrian Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 59
Adrian Hotel is a small and simple hotel, situated in one of the most privileged locations in Athens. It is located right in the heart of the old town Plaka, at the foot of the Acropolis Rock.
[more info]Hermes Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 68
Hotel Hermes is situated in the center of Athens, in Plaka area, near Syntagma square. The hotel's location is perfect for visits around Athens. It has been renovated in 2004, and decorated with style, care and a relaxing environment.
[more info]Electra Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 94
Electra Hotel is ideally located right in the centre of Athens, on the pedestrian Ermou street, where all the brand name shops are found, and within walking distance from most interesting must see places in Athens.
[more info]Economy Hotel Athens
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 40
The Economy Hotel is situated in between Omonia square and Monastiraki, in the central market area of Athens. A family-run hotel, the Economy Hotel is famed for its great service and the fantastic view of the Acropolis from the hotel's roof top.
[more info]Plaka Hotel
Location: AthensFrom: EUR 68
As the name suggests, Plaka Hotel is situated in the Plaka area, in the heart of Athens. It is an ideal spot to begin covering many areas by foot, while on a tour of Athens.
The hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms. The staff of the hotel is warm and hospitable.
Mistral Ydra
Location: Hydra IslandHydra is one of the smallest and most beautiful islands of the Argosaronic Golf. A unique island, one-and-a-half hours from Athens, it is in the pure tradition without motor vehicles.
[more info]Leto Hydra
Location: Hydra IslandFrom: EUR 111
The Hotel Leto Hydra is located in a quiet back street in one of the island's traditional neighbourhoods. It is situated near the port beside some of the island's other activities.
[more info]Orloff hotel
Location: Hydra IslandFrom: EUR 135
The hotel is located in the heart of Hydra, only 100 metres from the port. It is very close to the swimming spot "Spilia", the pharmacy, the hospital, the metropolitan church, the monastery and the traditional market.
[more info]Fly and Drive Peloponese & Delphi. 3* hotels in Double
From: EUR 310per package
Fell the liberty of discovering by your own this beautiful country, filled with centuries of history. In your way pass through the most known places, without pressure, choosing your own way, visits, and traditional place to eat.
Your program includes 7 nights in 6 different hotels, situated in key places to drive around archeological sites, landscapes and beaches. You will have also at your availability a car (insurance CDW and 1/3) with unlimited miles (Km).
[more info]
Gia Sas & Welcome to Athens!
Meet your local connection in Athens, Greece, Charles Berthault and the team of Via Tour. We are very enthusiastic about joining the whl.travel family- we love the sincerity of the network and the promotion of responsible tourism throughout the world. There are many areas in Greece that are still unknown and explored and we are working to develop agro-tourism while also creating opportunities for trekking in the wild and beautiful areas of the islands and the Greek mountains.
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