For lovers of history, the prospect of setting foot in the ancient birthplace of democracy will draw you to Athens like a bee to pollen. But the Greek capital has much else to justify its hard-won recent stature as a premiere holiday destination for all. Yes, of course, all the treasures of the ancient world are there for all to see and marvel at – the Acropolis with its stunning Parthenon temple peering loftily at the buzzing metropolis below will make even the most history blind speechless with wonder. But it’s the pedestrian promenade at the heart of the city which will leave everyone enthralled. The banning of cars a few years back has turned this once rumbling and congested area into a spellbinding fusion of the ancient and the modern. Effectively, it’s a vast archaeological park, but those ancient monuments are no longer icons of a long departed civilisation – once again, they’ve become the centre of Athenian cultural and social life in what is undoubtedly Europe’s longest and most architecturally astounding promenade.

Athens is, of course, the oldest city in Europe and the fabulous architectural remnants on display will remind you constantly of this fact. But it’s also one of the most modern: an ancient city in flux and transition, boldly embracing the cutting-edge and the new whilst refusing to compromise any of its cultural treasures in the process. The lifestyle of contemporary Athenians may be relaxed and easy-going but they clearly enjoy a voguish and dynamic street life, with night clubs to take your breath away and keep you dancing till the wee hours. There are also innumerable stylish restaurants and little eateries to keep hunger at bay. Don’t miss it.

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