#Athens is the capital of Greece and the second largest port in the world. With the population of more than four million people, it is Greece's largest city. Its temperature is extremely high during the summer, it holds the World Meteorological Organisation record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Europe (48 degrees) in 1977. Even now, in mid-October, the temperatures are high, around 23 degrees, which make Athens a very desirable city to visit. If you ask its residents about the quality of life, you will hear a lot of disgruntled comments, but for all of us who are visiting, Athens is a beautiful destination.
You can find accommodation which is not expensive and the food is more than good quality. Where else can you sit in the sun, enjoying tasteful food while enjoying the beautiful Acropolis? You can smell the history almost every step of the way. Not so far from Athens, only 68 kilometres is the Sounion - the site of the ruins of an ancient Greek temple of Poseidon. Once you go there and check that amazing view you will never be able to forget it. Even on the way to Sounion, you will spot some of the most beautiful houses, churches, breathtaking views and great restaurants.
The beautiful Mediterranean food
There is so much to say about Greek food, first of all, it is of high quality and will melt in your mouth.
I'm not talking just about the famous Greek salad, or souvlaki, gyros, but as well of zucchini and aubergines. Secondly, it is extremely cheap when you compare it to any other country in Southern Europe. Of course, there are places where you will pay far too much, but such places are rare. One thing that I did find unusual, is that there are not many ethnic restaurants.
Mostly, there are Greek food and Greek restaurants, but not so much Indian, Japanese, or similar cuisine. Vegetarianism doesn't seem to be the familiar term either. However, there is one more thing that makes this place unique, dining in the Athens neighbourhood of Plaka, regardless the time of year you arrive, it will always be crowded and very lively.
The thing I love the most is their music, with its melancholy touch. You will be able to hear it in almost every restaurant - somewhat romantic and sad at the same time.
Places to visit in Athens
One of the first places a visitor should start their Greek adventure is definitely Acropolis. It is huge and it is going to take you some time to go around and see everything. The price to tour is 30 euros, but note that every last Saturday of the month is free of charge. There, among other things are Parthenon, Temple of Hephaestus and Erechtheion. The next one on the list should be Ancient Agora of Athens- the ruins which are located in the heart of the city, long time ago it was the site of a marketplace, a political, cultural and economic centre of the ancient world.
Moving onto the Herod Atticus Odeon, an impressive second-century theatre, built into the hillside. Philopappos Hill where you can have a picnic and enjoy a breathtaking view. Most Athenians come there on weekends. While in Athens, if you are interested in their islands, but don't want to go too far, you can take a boat to Aegina island, around 27 kilometres away. It is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece and it will be enough to feed your curiosity.
