Athens & Mykonos

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Athens takes its name after the goddess of wisdom Athena, who is celebrated by the magnificent Acropolis, which overlooks the modern, cosmopolitan city that Athens is today. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities and it is the birthplace of western philosophy, democracy and theater. Up to this date, the Greek capital remains a major worldwide centre of culture, with its historic centre, iconic classical sites and museums filled with ancient Greece artefacts. The Acropolis, crowned by the emblematic Parthenon, has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars were banned from the historic centre, which has become the most striking pedestrian promenade in Europe. In this archeological Park, visitors will witness the contrasting nature of this ancient metropolis being able to visit the New Acropolis Museum, a high-tech modern structure with light and airy exhibition spaces as well as the National Archaeological Museum, the largest archeological museum in Greece built in the 19th century and devoted to ancient Greek art. The Acropolis and Mount Lycavittos, the city’s highest points, are used as orientation since they are visible from most places in the Plaka, the old historical neighborhood. The Plaka is under the Acropolis and stretches almost to Syntagma, home of to the Greek Parliament. For a taste of the hedonistic Athenian lifestyle one should visit Monastiraki, where locals go to eat, drink and mingle. The night time belongs to Psirri, a vibrant neighbourhood known for its bars, live music venues and exciting nightclubs. Southeast of the city centre, a glorious stretch of coast affords dreamy views over the glistening blue Aegean Sea. Surely few European capitals can claim sandy beaches and clean water for swimming within such easy access. Athens therefore offers the best of both worlds – a fantastic city break as well as a lazy beach holiday. Athenians are surprisingly friendly and outgoing and their enthusiasm for life’s pleasurable pursuits is so infectious that even the stiffest traveler will take time out for endless coffees and evening strolls, dine out until late and enjoy the city’s nightlife, long after the rest of Europe has gone to bed.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION:

Mykonos is one of the most popular destinations in the Greek Cyclades, located in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Since the 1960s, when artists and bohemians first discovered the island, it has grown into one of Greece’s most stylish holiday spots, known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

The island’s main town, Mykonos Town (Chora), is famous for its maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses with blue details, boutique shops and excellent restaurants. During the day, visitors relax on the island’s beaches, while at night the town comes alive with beach clubs, cocktail bars and lively nightlife that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Mykonos is also a great base for island hopping. From the harbour, you can easily visit nearby islands such as Santorini or the historic island of Delos, making it easy to explore more of the Cyclades during the same trip.

Travelling from Spain is simple, with some direct flights from Madrid. If there are no direct options available, the island is also easily reached with a short connection via Athens.