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Reasons Why You Should Visit Athens This Winter

by Perry Nastos Hostelbay [ Hotels and Ferry Tickets in Greece ]
Do you like winter? Can you withstand the cold? Europe has plenty of beautiful destinations that are ideal no matter what the weather is. This is exactly the reason why Greece is such an amazing destination for any time of the year because it is a place where you can experience everything. From good summer holidays and lovely spring breaks to autumn city breaks and interesting winter trips. The cool thing about Greece is that the winters are milder than in other European cities, so it might not even be necessary to visit Greece with full equipment scarf, cap, gloves, skis -ok, the last one is optional.

There is no need for extreme weather conditions, Europe is famous for its variety and there are countries that are much gentler than others (see the Mediterranean). So, for those looking for such kind of vacation, Greece is an ideal choice. If your budget is low, this is one more reason to choose Greece since winter months are considered offseason, so bring out your travel calendar and start writing down those dates. Let's not forget that winter is not only about December. You can also have amazing winter holidays in November, January, February and maybe until mid-March. If you cannot imagine your Greek winter holidays without the festive decorations, Christmas lights and theme parks and events, then we suggest that you organize your trip near Christmas and New Year, for example, late November or mid-January. By doing this it is a win-win situation since you'll be able to enjoy the Christmas vibes on a budget since this time of year has even more economical prices.

We are a few days before Christmas, however, the big Greek cities have already started to radiate with their festive atmosphere. Many streets in Athens have been decorated with lights, and the shops have already been filled with ornaments. The shops are also preparing the holiday markets in the coming weeks. Melomacarona and kourabiedes have already taken the first row in the pastry shops vitrines. At the same time, everything is almost ready for the Christmas tree of the municipality of Athens to get its lights on, while for the New Year's Eve, an amazing spectacle is being prepared. Athens is going to be celebrating with shows and events for every age and mood. The City of Athens brings art and music to the streets and squares with free concerts, exhibitions, dancing, as well as the Food Market in Kotzia Square, while the rest of the city's neighbourhoods, from Kifissia to the Marina of Flisvos, invite people of all ages to join the festive atmosphere and celebrate with excitement and exhilaration. As the Christmas period is approaching the municipality of Athens is ready to welcome it by transforming Athens into a City of angels, with a program organized by the Sports and Youth Culture Organization and the Technopolis of the Municipality of Athens. This year, the Athenian municipality draws inspiration from love and organizes a unique Christmas celebration throughout the city. A celebration full of joy, with angels being on the wheel. Residents and visitors will find angel forms in many and often unexpected places of the city, which will be flying with their wings and seeking the joy of the feast. Athens can be an awesome destination even for the most romantic people out there. 

The city's centre offers lovely and simple hangouts and activities that will give a "warmth" to your winter holiday escape. A glass of warm wine or cognac, a chocolate mug, an aromatic "rakomelo" (a special drink made of raki and honey), a hot soup dish and freshly baked bagels are few of the reasons that put us in a winter mood. There are several bistros or cute cafes that will remind you of Paris. Alternatively, there are several choices in atmospheric chocolate coffee shops, which will surely become your favourite spot in downtown Athens if you love chocolate. You will be able to choose among a great variety of chocolate flavours which combined with the special atmosphere, decoration and music will surely win a place in your heart. Lately, there is also a trend in wine bars. You will discover many secret places around the centre, which will catch your attention and can surely offer you a great wine tasting experience. Don't forget to find out the best roof-top bars of Athens so that you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the rest of Athens. You could also take part in one of the new, interactive and entertaining games, which are best for groups, families and people who like mind games. We are referring to the famous real-life escape rooms that have become really popular in the last few years. 

Children will have the chance to try creative workshops in art centres and museums, play in festive parks and head out to do a bit of ice skating in the rinks scattered all over the city. Exhibitions and arty gifts in museums, DJ parties and themed cocktails in bars, swing, jazz and Viennese melodies in great scenes and live clubs, are the best way to have fun till the morning hours. Musical scenes, spectacular shows for the whole family, Christmas and New Year's Eve events, brunches in restaurants and hotels offer a spectacular chance to locals and travellers to delve into the colourful Christmas spirit.

Parents who are going to travel to the Greek capital at Christmas 2018-2019 the choices are more than enough. The fabulous Christmas Factory at Athens' Technopolis in Gazi is already preparing for the sweetest trip to the most beloved festival of the year. Christmas events, activities for young friends, surprises for parents and children, and unbelievable game suggestions and gifts will fascinate you. For a special "taste" of Christmas on ice, all roads lead to Faliro Olympic Indoor Hall (Tae Kwon Do Hall). From December 19th to December 23rd 2018, Russian Ice Stars will perform live on a huge ice skating rink the festive fairy tale "Snow White on Ice".

If you want to escape the city centre there are other options as well.

In order to make a small escape from the urban landscape, it does not take a lot of money or a lot of days. Just your good mood and definitely a good company. There are so many beautiful places and attractions near Athens that can be explored even with a one-day excursion. Here are some selected nearby destinations to help you organize your itinerary after choosing which one suits you. You can either get there for a day-trip or you can spend the whole weekend if you like.

Chalkida
Perhaps the closest and most economical destination just 50 minutes from Athens. Take this excursion if you are most interested in relaxing, drinking your coffee and eating fine dishes with fishmeal or meat, overlooking the sea. Ideal destination if you are tired and you are not interested in making long trips by walking or visiting attractions.

Loutraki
One of the nearest destinations and a very lively city. Loutraki is ideal for a one-day excursion from Athens, as it is only an hour away. It has mountain and sea and a very family friendly atmosphere as people welcome you very warmly. Due to its very close distance from Athens, you have the whole day in front of you for coffee, food and walking around the city. You can enjoy a walk on the beach, a visit to Lake Vouliagmeni, in a very picturesque landscape of special natural beauty.

Parnassos
Parnassos can offer you plenty of Idyllic landscapes and beautiful walks especially during the winter months. Apart from Arachova in less than 3 hours from Athens you can visit Amfiklia and Agoriani, drink Greek coffee under the plane trees and around the fir trees and stroll through the picturesque alleys of the villages mentioned. If you are a winter sports fan, the ski resort will reward you in the winter, while for the gourmets there are dozens of options in the taverns in the area.

Nafplio
This is an all-time classic destination, especially for couples and families. Just one and a half hour from Athens, in the Peloponnese, you can start early in the morning and enjoy a busy day at Nafplio. From the picturesque streets and Venetian houses to Bourtzi and the port, Nafplion is so magical that might make you want to stay longer than only one day with its unique atmosphere.

Epidavros
Epidavros is also a good choice for a one-day excursion in the Peloponnese, a destination which is only 2 hours away from the capital. The ancient theatre is the main reason to visit it if you have not been there before. In the summer months, the most beautiful spot in the area is the harbour, but it is worth it to take a relaxing stroll all year round, without the summer crowd.

Aegina
Just 40 minutes from Piraeus, a suitable winter-summer destination, since although it is an island the weather is always mild, pretty similar to the weather in Athens, so you know what you will come across. If you enjoy swimming during winter, you can take a dip in the cooler months at Perdika or Agia Marina, two of the famous beaches of the island. If you are an enthusiast of history, the island presents important sights such as the Aphaia Temple.

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About Perry Nastos Advanced   Hostelbay [ Hotels and Ferry Tickets in Greece ]

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Joined APSense since, May 24th, 2018, From Athens, Greece.

Created on Nov 29th 2018 10:23. Viewed 452 times.

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