Athens is the city of the Olympic Idea, the city of artists, cultural channel scientific centre, East and West for each voyager, the crossroads of every major event for the active, the fashion that is in for avid sophisticates, the Parthenon, of all and for all.

Athens has much to offer: near-constant sunshine, access to sandy beaches and idyllic islands, and of course that first stunning view of the Acropolis.

Today is a modern city, alive and on the go. Modern, but romantic as well, with busy streets and squares, shop windows a riot of colors, as well as little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighborhoods such as Plaka and Mets.In the countless shops, the visitor will find whatever he may need. In the tavernas and restaurants he can enjoy any taste sensation, in the nightclubs, pubs, discos, and bars he can drink and dance the night away.

Piraeus is Greece's third largest city in terms of population and its biggest port. It was first settled in the time of Themistocles, when the Long Walls were built (478 BC), the town being laid out to the plans of the architect Hippodamus. It gained considerably in importance when Athens became a naval power. The ancient harbours of Piraeus were Zea and Munichia.

Zea, now called Pasalimani, is one of the largest marinas in the Mediterranean. Munichia, also known as Mikrolimano or Tourkolimano, is a pretty little harbour with yachts and fishing-boats and ringed with fish tavernas. Above Mikrolimano is the Kastella hill, much mentioned in popular song, with its houses in the traditional style and a panoramic view. On its top is the Church of the Prophet Elijah, with the Veakeio Theatre, well known for its summer performances, nearby.

The commercial harbour of Piraeus is one of the most important in the Mediterranean. The city itself with its suburbs is an industrial zone of particular importance for the Greek economy, but its centre nevertheless has broad streets, spacious squares, tree-lined avenues, and parks.