Rich in both history and culture, Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a beautiful destination that will have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left. From the mountains on the mainland to the scattering of islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the home to ancient philosophy offers many business opportunities, with a heavy emphasis on tourism.

GETTING THERE
Athens International Airport serves the city, located 20 miles southeast of central Athens. A taxi ride to the city center costs about $39 during the day (5 a.m.–12 a.m.) and $55 at night (12 a.m.–5 a.m.). Buses, the metro and trains provide alternative modes of transfer from the airport. A one-way ticket for the bus, leaving every 30 to 60 minutes, costs about $5.60. The one-way fare for the metro from the airport costs approximately $8.90. Travel via the railway costs between $6.70 and $15.60.

GETTING AROUND
Athens features an extensive public transportation network of buses, trams, metro, railway and trolleybuses. For about $1.30, you can use any mode of transport for 70 minutes. Tickets valid for 24 hours are also available for approximately $4.50, and five-day tickets cost about $11. A three-day tourist ticket including one roundtrip to the airport runs about $22. When using public transportation, be sure to validate your tickets after purchasing them and before boarding. The fine for a non-validated ticket is 60 times its value. Validation machines are orange boxes on the buses and trolleybuses. On the metro, find boxes in the station lobby; and on the tram, beige boxes are situated on the platform and inside the car. Taxis also offer an inexpensive way to travel around the city, with a base fare of about $1.60.

9–5
Balcony at Cyclades
If your business luncheon or dinner will include a group of more than just a few, the Balcony at Cyclades offers special packages for business dining which include access to audio and video equipment for presentations, among other perks. Serving cuisine inspired by the Aegean Islands alongside breathtaking views, the Balcony at Cyclades is ready to impress.

Poseidon Athens Hotel
The Poseidon Athens Hotel prides itself on its traditional Greek breakfast, serving a dizzying array of more than 80 homemade dishes with locally sourced ingredients to businesspeople and luxury travelers alike. The Poseidon Breakfast Room is open from 7 a.m. through 10:30 a.m., and the dress code is smart casual.

Spondi
With two Michelin stars and numerous awards and recognitions, Spondi is worth the trip to Athens’ historic district of Pagrati for a business lunch or dinner. With gorgeous presentation, a fresh and seasonal menu and one of the best wine offerings in Greece, Spondi impresses at every turn. You can make reservations for lunch or dinner on its website or by calling the restaurant.

AFTER 5
The Acropolis Museum
Trying to fit in one of Athens’ many tourist spots after you’re done for the day? The Acropolis Museum allows admission until 7:30 p.m. most evenings April 1 through Oct. 31, and 9:30 p.m. on Fridays all year. With exhibits featuring numerous finds from the Acropolis, it’s the perfect place to get lost in the ancient history of Greece.

Akrotiri Club – Restaurant
If you’re looking for a taste of the young and vibrant nightlife of Athens, look no further than Akrotiri, located on the southern side of Athens. The restaurant features spectacular views of the water and accepts reservations for both festive celebrations and business dinners. The club portion of the venue features regular events and popular DJs.

Brettos Bar
While not as elegant and luxurious as some of Athens’ other choices, Brettos is a great stop on your itinerary after a long day of business dealings leaves you wanting to unwind on your own. The oldest distillery in the city, you don’t want to miss a taste of the ouzo, a wildly popular Grecian alcoholic beverage tasting of licorice and anise.

RESOURCES
For more information, visit thisisathens.org