It’s no secret that Athens is in the midst of a significant post-recession transformation, with new hotels, restaurants and even train routes popping up every year. So instead of treating it as a quick stop for ancient ruins and gyros before you head off to the islands, let the capital city and its burgeoning culinary and art scenes convince you to stay a while.

Athens has been named “World’s Leading Cultural City Destination 2024” at the World Travel Awards.

The award was presented during a glittering ceremony in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, on Sunday, 24 November.

The recognition highlights Athens’ growing prominence as a global cultural hub, reflecting its dynamic combination of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy. 

Chris Kontos has opened a natural wine bar in Athens. This is big news in the Greek capital, because whatever project Kontos undertakes is apparently a measure of where the city is heading, culturally speaking. His photography is partly responsible for shaping the image of “New Athens”: confusing, chaotic, magical. He is also the founder of Kennedy Magazine, a biannual journal sold from Tokyo to New York, a DJ and, as of October, the owner of Kennedy Vins, a wine and listening bar in the downtown area. 
 

The City of Athens has achieved a significant distinction in international tourism, winning the title of World’s Leading Cultural City Destination 2024 at the World Travel Awards. The impressive award ceremony took place in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal on Sunday, November 24th.
 

Boho neighbourhoods, rooftop pool bars and an exciting spirit of reinvention make Athens an excellent weekender. A winter visit means you’ll swerve the crowds, too

In this city centred on ancient landmarks, standout neighbourhoods pair exceptional places to stay with their own distinct vibe.
Athens is a surprisingly modern city, but its centre of gravity is still the oldest landmark of all: the Acropolis...

Athens stands as a city where the legacy of Antiquity is woven into its modern and vibrant urban landscape. World-renowned landmarks of Ancient Greece like the Acropolis and the Parthenon stand as enduring symbols of classical architecture and the city’s storied past. These structures reflect the foundational principles of symmetry and balance that have influenced generations of architects and continue to attract scholars from around the world. Yet, Athens is also a thriving metropolis where contemporary architecture coexists with its historical counterparts. 

Ancient relics have been given a fresh lease of life in the Greek capital, where they’ve been reimagined and reworked to coexist with the 21st-century city, from fashion stores to classical-music venues.