The city took its name from Athena, goddess of wisdom, strategy and war, and protector of the city. The financial, political and administrative center of the country and an all-powerful city-state in antiquity, Athens is a major center of culture. A visit to the first-ever museum dedicated to Byzantium, a stroll around the National Garden and a trip to the Olympeion archaeological site will take you back through time.

In close proximity to the Attica Prefecture, where Athens belongs, are some wonderful sailing routes that offer ideal conditions, clean and calm waters, splendid coasts and different islands to explore.

The Saronic Islands of Aegina, Agistri, Spetses, Hydra, Poros, Salamina and the peninsula of Methana are the most popular sailing destinations. Sprinkled over the Argosaronic Gulf and steeped in ancient mythology, these islands are small havens in close proximity to Athens. Busy people, who either come to Athens as visitors or live and work there, can get away for a few days to one of the nearby islands — high-class incredibly beautiful destinations, which can be reached in a short time.