As COVID-19 swept across Europe, Greece started implementing nationwide measures to contain the virus, including cancellation of major public gatherings and lock-down measures. The city of Athens followed these measures while also moving quickly to bring experts together from all sectors to protect marginalised communities.

By Rachel Howard

Wherever you go in Athens, your children will be treated to an extra scoop of ice cream or an affectionate joke at lunch. And they're bound to love the pools, playrooms, and even private screening rooms some of the hotels here offer. 

By Rachel Howard

The Parthenon seemed to vibrate with the promise of transcendence – a symbol of humanity’s ability to outlast, to overcome, to survive. 

By Felicity Long

The city of Athens approved the creation of the Great Walk of Athens, a 4.23-mile, car-free route designed to promote the historical city center and enable social distancing for pedestrians.

The Greek capital moved up to the 17th place in the world and the 12th in Europe for 2019, its highest ever.

By Jack Rear

And yes, I did get that same soulful, meditative retreat I’d dreamt of. I had the opportunity to chat to and laugh with like-minded strangers for the first time since lockdown began, to allow the current situation to give me new insight into the stories I love, and break out of the little bubble of my North London flat.

By Gorazd Čad

Climbing to its highest ranking ever at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Annual Report 2019, Athens ranked as the 17th top destination worldwide for association meetings, moving up seven positions from its 24th position in 2018.

Air pollution linked to car traffic declined by up to 50 percent, seismic noise related to human activity down by at least 30 percent compared with the pre-lockdown days, scientists at the Athens National Observatory have been impressed with Greeks' compliance with the full lockdown the government imposed on March 23 to curb the spread of COVID-19.