Number one holiday destination in Greece named - it’s not Santorini

This stunning city has been named one of the favourites for British tourists - and now is the perfect season to visit.

By Vita Molyneux, Travel Reporter
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Sunny streets of Plaka historic district, Athens, Greece

Sunny streets of Plaka historic district (Image: Getty)

Move over  Mykonos - there’s a new Greek favourite among  Brits. With the summer holidays drawing closer and people looking for relaxation, data from Welcome Pickups has revealed Athens is top of mind. Athens has seen a 17 percent increase in travellers in the last year, and the ancient city sees more than 74,000 Google searches by Brits every month.

Rich in historical and cultural heritage, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and is known as the birthplace of democracy. The city is home to iconic ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora, which offer a glimpse into classical Greek civilization.

Ancient landmark citadel Acropolis of Athens seen from the Hill of the Muses, Philopappos Hill

Ancient landmark citadel Acropolis of Athens (Image: Getty)

Brits are also drawn to Athens for its vibrant neighbourhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, known for their lively atmosphere, traditional cuisine, and charming architecture.

Additionally, the city's blend of ancient and modern life, along with its proximity to beautiful beaches and islands, makes it a captivating destination for Brits abroad.

While Athens is incredibly busy in peak season, the shoulder seasons in April-May and September-October offer lower temperatures and fewer crowds - both of which make it easier to make the most of this bustling city. 

Cityscape of Athens

Athens is gorgeous in spring (Image: Getty)

However if you choose to visit in April or May be aware of the biggest holiday of the year - Orthodox Easter.

Orthodox Easter is preceded by an entire week of celebration and the date changes yearly. Everyone in Greece goes on holiday so hotels can get booked out - make sure you reserve rooms well in advance. 

Athens is also very walkable - the main attractions in the city are easy to get to, and spending a day wandering through the city's charming passageways and markets is a fabulous way to enjoy your holiday. 

It’s also got some stunning beaches right on its doorstep - from Athens you can take a tram to Alimos beach and sun yourself on the expanse of white sand before taking a dip in the crystal clear sea. The beach is a mixture of paid and free so it;s perfect for people on a budget.

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