Cheap Flights to Athens with PLAY from USD 274*

PLAY flies to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), Main terminal. The airport is 34 km from the city center and is serviced by trains (Metro Line 3 - Blue), bus routes, car rentals and taxis. For more information see Athens International Airport's official website.

Ancient Artistry in Athens

Statements and adjectives tend to get very large when describing the capital of Greece. Athens is after all considered the birthplace of democracy and often referred to as the cradle of western civilization. This city was home to Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, philosophers who shaped the way westerners thought about the world for thousands of years. And walking the streets of Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world, is an awe-inspiring journey through the last 3,400 years of human history. First-time visitors should head directly to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon and other temples from Greek Antiquity. Ruins, temples, statues, fountains, and buildings spanning many eras of history are everywhere in this city, but we highly recommend the National Archaeological Museum for an in-depth and close-up look at the important role Athens has played in our history. But it’s not all marble, ancient gods and artifacts. Modern-day Athens is a very walkable city with great pedestrian routes and streets to get lost in. And just as well, because Athens is nothing if not a gastronomical paradise, with the fresh and healthy classical ingredients and cuisine of Greece combined with a fast-paced 21st century city. Be sure to taste the world-famous koulouri, Athens traditional and delicious take on the bagel in combination with innovative dishes at the finest Michelin-starred restaurants. When you’ve had your fill of fabulous food and the vibrant street life, head for Mount Lycabettus, a limestone hill and the highest vantage point in central Athens. With a beautiful amphitheater and breathtaking views, the hike is well worth it, but a funicular railway will get you there in comfort.

The Greek Idea of Paradise

The ultimate image of Greece as a holiday destination is of white-washed buildings, crystal clear waters on paradise beaches in perfect weather, accompanied by glorious seafood served by laid back locals. This is in fact a reality on most of the countless Mediterranean islands off the coast of Greece, many of which are easily accessible from Athens. If one of these paradise islands isn’t your final destination we highly recommend a day cruise to get at least a taste of this good life in that paradise setting. After all, you might meet your very own muse and go on to write one of the world’s most famous songs as a result, just like Leonard Cohen did on Hydra. If you’re not the seafaring type and islands aren’t your thing, perhaps Olympic sports and their origins might be more up your alley. Visit the stunning and historical Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, made entirely out of white marble. This place originates from the 4th century BC and hosted the world’s first modern-day Olympic Games in 1896. Whatever you might come across in Athens, odds are you’ll fall in love, since this city is always competing for the gold.