As the cradle of Western civilization, and the oldest capital city in Europe, Athens is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which are timeless reminders of its classical glory.
Alongside its ancient ruins, the city pulses with the energy of a modern metropolis, filled with contemporary art, bustling neighborhoods, chic cafés, and a dynamic urban lifestyle. There’s so much to explore.
And we’re doing it from the comfort of our five-star hotel, xenodocheio Milos, in the heart of all the action. Our Executive City Room is spacious and contemporary, with a luxurious bed as its centrepiece.
The light-filled space has high ceilings and huge windows overlooking the historic Old Parliament House. Every indulgence is catered for with an oversized marble bathroom packed with toiletries, a dining area,
comfortable armchairs, and the softest plush linens. It’s a peaceful piece of heaven in the middle of Athens’ beating heart.
From here, it’s easy walking distance to many of the city’s timeless attractions. Nearby Monastiraki is buzzing with flea markets, shops, and street vendors. Plaka’s steep, narrow streets at the foot of the Acropolis are festooned with bougainvilleas in myriad shades and lined with vertiginous restaurants and bars. Al fresco dining is the name of the day, and roof-top bars are an Athens must-do – especially at sunset and when night falls when the city turns into a living, twinkling work of art.
As we stroll the streets absorbing the ambiance and sense of history, our eyes can’t help but look upwards towards the ancient and magnificent Acropolis. It seems to be standing proudly at the end of every street. So, of course, we’re immediately heading to explore this architectural marvel.
Constructed during the 5th century BCE under the supervision of Pericles, it’s built on a limestone hill as a monument to Athenian power and achievement, and it is awe- inspiring. As we climb to the plateau and its crowning glory, the Parthenon, we can feel that power and inhale the air breathed by Greek gods and philosophers in times gone by. The taste of history is palpable in the air.
After serious explorations with a multitude of steps, we return to our hotel to refresh and enjoy a rejuvenating massage in the spa. Then it’s time for dinner downstairs at the sparkling and stylish estiatorio Milos restaurant. With a reputation as one of the best fish restaurants in Athens, it has branches in seven locations worldwide. The menu is designed using the finest fresh raw materials carefully chosen from local farmers and fishermen, and our expectations are high.
Even so, they’re surpassed as a carousel of beautiful dishes is smoothly delivered to our table. Think zesty ceviche, fresh anchovies, and lobster, the best Greek salad ever (oh, that olive oil), towers of crispy aubergine, buttery greens, risotto, and fresh grilled fish filleted at the table. This is Greek cuisine elevated to another plateau – clearly inspired by the nearby Acropolis on high. A splendid and substantial breakfast
is also served here, including the most vibrant, tastiest and juiciest tomatoes ever.
A restaurant deserving of every superlative. The concierge at xenodocheio Milos is an encyclopedia of local knowledge and is always there with a smile and suggestions. So when he tells us we have to go to the beach, we simply have to take his advice. Who knew Athens had such lovely beaches? It’s a short drive to the clear, azure waters of Dot Beach Vibes Beach Club.
There’s a beautiful sweeping beach lined with comfy sun loungers and umbrellas where we sip cocktails and soak up the sun. Before heading to the restaurant for another feast fit for the Greek gods.
A break in Athens offers the best of history, culture, and cuisine, not to forget the warm hospitality of the people. Friendly kalimeras echo out to us as we navigate the winding, historic streets and we’re warmly welcomed into myriad shops, bars and restaurants along the way. The city is a living tapestry combining past and present – and it has a beach. What more could anyone want?
Words by Sandy Cadiz-Smith
xenodocheio Milos Hotel https://www.xenodocheiomilos.com/
Dot Beach Vibes Beach Club https://www.dot-voula.com/