Athens

Athens rewards anyone with an interest in ancient history, and the Acropolis, begun in 447 BC, is the reason why: the Parthenon still dominates the skyline from its hilltop position, visible from restaurant terraces across the city. Beyond the ruins, the Plaka district offers narrow lanes, good tavernas and views back up to the rock itself. Greece’s capital has modernised considerably in recent years, and pairing a couple of days here with the islands gives real context to a Greek holiday.