Athens holidays

While the Parthenon represents the 'golden age' of Athens urban planning, the Romans, Byzantines and Venetians also left their architectural legacy in the city. Beneath a skyline of elegant neoclassical facades and whitewashed houses, the historic Plaka quarter is a vibrant and colourful combination of antique shops, market stalls and pavement tavernas. Modern Athens, which received a face-lift in 2004 when it once more became the host for the Olympics, is also fascinating to explore.