Nourished by philosophy, history, literature and invention, Athens is a city that can be traced back some 5,000 years. But despite its rich history, many travellers have viewed the Greek capital as little more than a conduit to reach the islands.
However, during Greece’s decades-long financial crisis, a cultural revival was rising here. Against the relics of its ancient heritage, Athens became a new incubator of innovation and creativity. Neoclassical mansions were transformed into stylish guesthouses; old embassies into swish hotels. Former factories were turned into galleries and candle houses into slick gastro-tavernas. Suddenly, reinvention was just as important as history.
With dazzling restaurants, wine bars that would delight Dionysus, impressive art spaces and hip hotels, the Greek capital is now – finally and firmly – establishing itself as a cultural hub. Welcome to the new Golden Age of Athens.
WHERE TO STAY
In the past, the choice of accommodation in Athens was either dated chain hotels or chintzy, the art of making a stranger feel at home. , the stylish offshoot of acclaimed restaurant , echoes this wholeheartedly. The boutique hotel opened as a unique culinary-hotel experience, blurring the lines between exquisite dining, unparalleled Greek hospitality and luxury accommodation.
