XpatAthens
Monday, 15 May 2017 07:00
Hytra - Restaurant & Bar
The restaurant Hytra, whose name derives from the ancient Greek terracotta vase, first opened in 2004 in Psiri, one of the oldest districts of Athens.
Six years later in 2010, Hytra was awarded its first Michelin star and has retained it ever since. In 2012, Hytra was then awarded a second Michelin Star, the first for ‘Blue Hytra’ restaurant, hosted at the Westin Resort in Athens.
The restaurant has since relocated to the 6th floor of the Onassis Cultural Centre in Syngrou Avenue and was recently redesigned by award-winning architectural firm Divercity. In warmer months of the year, the restaurant moves to the 7th floor of the building, offering a unique outdoor setting with panoramic view of the Acropolis, Lycebettus hill and the city skyline.
Hytra’s philosophy is that of high quality service and hospitality expressed through a number of different services, its advanced aesthetic, the warm and homely atmosphere, and its relationship with the cultural activity of the Onassis Cultural Centre. Hytra is also committed to providing the best of Greek cuisine through Greek raw materials and recipes.
To read this article in full, please visit: Living Postcards
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Restaurants In Athens
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Tuesday, 24 April 2018 20:25
April 24 - The Season Of Travel
What a better place to enjoy summer than Greece? From beatiful destinations off the beaten track, to top holiday picks in the Aegean and Ionian sea. Discover each one of them in this week's newsletter!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
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Newsletters
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Tuesday, 12 June 2018 21:07
June 12 - Good Things Happening
How delightful is it that things in Athens appear to be changing for the better? Athenians may now take advantage of the Mobile Library, which visits neighborhoods in the city and offers free books in different languages, but also the Mobile Laundry service aiming to help people in need with their clothing. So stay tuned for upcoming good news in our future newsletters!
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Newsletters
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Wednesday, 03 October 2018 13:04
Free October Events In Athens
No doubt in our minds that Athens is a beautiful city with historical ancient sites that date back thousands of years ago. However, the capital also hosts a number of super cool and interesting events, some of which are also free to attend. Here are some picks of art and culture events that will definately fascinate you!
1) Athens Culture Net At Night
3) October 1944 - Athens Is Celebrating
For the fourth year in a row, FreeAthens44 and events of ''October 12th 1944. Athens Is Free'' fill the city with activites to celebrate its independence from the Nazi rule in 1944. Shows, events, historic walks, music, theatrical performances, screenings and workshops are just few of the free activities you can enjoy!
4) ''Happy Birthday Mr. Chatzidakis''
On October 23rd, the day Manos Chatzidakis was born, the Greek National Opera will pay a musical tribute to this great Greek composer. On the Stavros Niarchos stage, renowned artists will perform his songs and Schoolwave bands will experiment with his music!
5) A stroll in Athens with its writers
Athens is the World Book Capital for 2018 and you are invited to get to know the CityofAthens and its writers a bit better. During three days, October the 6th, 7th and 13th, both kids and adults will discover a different version of the city ranging from historic tours to early settlements of Asia Minor refugees.
6) Dirty Fuse at the SNFCC
On Saturday October the 13th, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center invites you to its last outdoor concert with a Surf Rock party and Dirty Fuse!
Originally posted on in2life.gr
Translated by XpatAthens
1) Athens Culture Net At Night
On Friday October the 5th, Athens Culture Net invites you to wander around the city from sunset till late at night. Discover events and surprise activities all to do with art and narration. Take part in a crime literature workshop at a Kolonaki bookshop, while at the Puskin Institute learn in central Athens you can learn all about the Russian language.
2) ΦantastiCon 2018
On the 6th and 7th of October, ΦantastiCon invites you to a two-day festival at the Hellenic-American Union. All sorts of creatures will transform the place into a forest, while elves and unicorns will meet brave warriors and wizards. The person of honour will be the writer, poet and actor Makis Panorios. The event will last from 11:00 to 21:30.
2) ΦantastiCon 2018
On the 6th and 7th of October, ΦantastiCon invites you to a two-day festival at the Hellenic-American Union. All sorts of creatures will transform the place into a forest, while elves and unicorns will meet brave warriors and wizards. The person of honour will be the writer, poet and actor Makis Panorios. The event will last from 11:00 to 21:30.
3) October 1944 - Athens Is Celebrating
For the fourth year in a row, FreeAthens44 and events of ''October 12th 1944. Athens Is Free'' fill the city with activites to celebrate its independence from the Nazi rule in 1944. Shows, events, historic walks, music, theatrical performances, screenings and workshops are just few of the free activities you can enjoy!
4) ''Happy Birthday Mr. Chatzidakis''
On October 23rd, the day Manos Chatzidakis was born, the Greek National Opera will pay a musical tribute to this great Greek composer. On the Stavros Niarchos stage, renowned artists will perform his songs and Schoolwave bands will experiment with his music!
5) A stroll in Athens with its writers
Athens is the World Book Capital for 2018 and you are invited to get to know the CityofAthens and its writers a bit better. During three days, October the 6th, 7th and 13th, both kids and adults will discover a different version of the city ranging from historic tours to early settlements of Asia Minor refugees.
6) Dirty Fuse at the SNFCC
On Saturday October the 13th, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center invites you to its last outdoor concert with a Surf Rock party and Dirty Fuse!
Originally posted on in2life.gr
Translated by XpatAthens
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Community
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Monday, 17 June 2019 07:00
Visits To Greek Museums And Archaeological Sites Have Increased Significantly
The number of visitors to museums and archaeological sites in Greece rose by 15% and 8.8% respectively in February, according to data that was published by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), last week.
Regarding museums, during the two first months of 2019, there was a 9.2% increase in visitors, an 8.5 % increase in free admissions, while revenues rose by 17.1%.
In archaeological sites, in February there was an 8.8% increase in visitors, a 20.5% hike in free admissions, and revenues grew by 7.2% compared to the same time last year.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greece-Is
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Local News
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Thursday, 02 April 2020 17:36
Everything You Need To Know About The Athens & Epidaurus Festival 2020
Due to this year's unprecedented circumstances, Katerina Evangelatos, Artistic Director of the Athens & Epidaurus Festival, unveiled the original concept and planning behind the 2020 program privately, through a moving video. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, performance dates are not included in the press kit.
We all hope that this year's Festival will come to fruition as soon as circumstances allow it, with as few disruptions as possible.
We all hope that this year's Festival will come to fruition as soon as circumstances allow it, with as few disruptions as possible.
What is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival?
The Athens & Epidaurus Festival is Greece’s leading cultural event and one of the oldest performing arts festivals in Europe (1955). Each year, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival presents performances from acclaimed artists in theatre, dance, and music and attracts large audiences from around the world.
The festival takes place annually in the months of June, July, and August. More specifically, the Athens Festival performances are held between June 1st and mid to late July while the Epidaurus performances are held every Friday and Saturday, from early July to mid-August.
In Athens the festival is held at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Peiraios 260, and Opening to the City. In Epidaurus it takes place at Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus. Site-specific performances are presented in various neighbourhoods of Athens and Piraeus, including outdoor spaces and archaeological sites, thus expanding the Festival’s scope and audience and encouraging spectators’ active engagement.
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Local News
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Friday, 17 September 2021 07:00
Great Reasons To Add Greek Yogurt To Your Daily Diet
Greek yogurt is considered one of the world’s best superfoods and a nutrient-packed snack that has so many health benefits, it is the ideal dairy to add to your everyday diet!
It’s different from other yogurts as produces add an extra step to their process so that excess water, lactose, and minerals drain out. What’s left is a creamy, rich yogurt with less sugar and more carbs. The acidity also makes it easier for your body to absorb other nutrients.
A cup of plain Greek yogurt can help you meet the recommended dietary guideline of three daily servings of low-fat or non-fat dairy products. People who are lactose intolerant may also find Greek yogurt easier to digest because of the bacterial breakdown of the milk’s sugars.
The benefits of consuming Greek yogurt include supporting weight loss, keeping the intestinal system healthy, regulating blood pressure, increasing bone density, boosting immunity, aiding the digestive system, and promoting thyroid function. Other benefits include supporting blood production, supporting muscle growth, preserving oral health, and improving mood.
Here are some detailed reasons to add Greek yogurt to your daily diet:
Power of Protein: Yogurt has a much higher amount of protein than milk. Your body uses protein to build bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, hair, and blood.
Helps You Lose Weight: Greek yogurt contains almost twice the amount of protein found in standard protein products and a lot less sugar, which will make you feel satisfied for longer!
Prevents Yeast Infections: Greek yogurt contains a high quantity of probiotic bacteria, which is essential for the wellbeing of your natural flora, helping keep this infection at bay.
Helps Regulate Blood Pressure: High sodium intake is frequently the most common cause of high blood pressure, however, Greek yogurt supplies some of these blood pressure-regulating minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com
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Greek Food & Diet
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Friday, 25 February 2022 07:00
Melbourne Museum Exhibition Showcases The World Of Ancient Greece
Melbourne Museum’s new exhibition ‘Open Horizons: Ancient Greek Journeys’ will be opening on Saturday, April 23.
Melburnians will be able to dive into the trade, spirituality, art, ideas, and culture of ancient Greece in an Australian-first exhibition that brings precious artifacts from Greece exclusively to the Melbourne Museum.
Melbourne famously has the third largest Greek population of any city in the world after Athens and Thessaloniki, and Open Horizons: Ancient Greek Journeys is set to set to engage Melbourne’s Greek community, in addition to the wider Victorian population, in just how crucial ancient Greece has been to humanity’s development.
Melbourne Museum and Greece’s National Archaeological Museum have collaborated on the exhibition, which will take attendees on a journey through the golden age of Greek politics and philosophy, through to the present day. It offers a telling reminder that Greece continues to influence culture, politics, and sport on a wide scale, despite the nation’s population of approximately 10 million people, despite the nation’s deeply troubled economy and position at the forefront of Europe’s struggle with the ongoing migrant and refugee crisis.
Open Horizons will showcase 44 treasures from the Early Bronze age through to the Roman period. Highlights include a 2,500-year-old marble sphinx depicting a female head with the body of a winged lion and a collection of artifacts depicting Heracles, the greatest of all Greek heroes.
“We are excited to be collaborating with the National Archaeological Museum to bring some of the most remarkable artifacts direct from Athens for audiences in Melbourne to enjoy,” Museums Victoria CEO Lynley Crosswell said.
To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com
Melburnians will be able to dive into the trade, spirituality, art, ideas, and culture of ancient Greece in an Australian-first exhibition that brings precious artifacts from Greece exclusively to the Melbourne Museum.
Melbourne famously has the third largest Greek population of any city in the world after Athens and Thessaloniki, and Open Horizons: Ancient Greek Journeys is set to set to engage Melbourne’s Greek community, in addition to the wider Victorian population, in just how crucial ancient Greece has been to humanity’s development.
Melbourne Museum and Greece’s National Archaeological Museum have collaborated on the exhibition, which will take attendees on a journey through the golden age of Greek politics and philosophy, through to the present day. It offers a telling reminder that Greece continues to influence culture, politics, and sport on a wide scale, despite the nation’s population of approximately 10 million people, despite the nation’s deeply troubled economy and position at the forefront of Europe’s struggle with the ongoing migrant and refugee crisis.
Open Horizons will showcase 44 treasures from the Early Bronze age through to the Roman period. Highlights include a 2,500-year-old marble sphinx depicting a female head with the body of a winged lion and a collection of artifacts depicting Heracles, the greatest of all Greek heroes.
“We are excited to be collaborating with the National Archaeological Museum to bring some of the most remarkable artifacts direct from Athens for audiences in Melbourne to enjoy,” Museums Victoria CEO Lynley Crosswell said.
To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com
Main image: @melbournemuseum
Published in
Greece In The News
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Monday, 25 July 2022 07:00
Athens Among Best ‘Value for Money’ European Tourist Destinations In June
Greece’s capital city Athens is among the top destinations in Europe that offered the best value for money during the month of June, according to a new study released last week.
Conducted by Mabrian, a leading tourism intelligence company, the study analyzed air connectivity, the average hotel price, and the levels of satisfaction and perception of visitors.
With regard to air connectivity, Mabrian looked at the number of seats on scheduled flights and the number of cities and countries with which each destination has a direct connection.
The analysis of visitor satisfaction is part of the Mabrian indices that measure the level of satisfaction and perception that visitors have with destinations in general and regarding the most relevant areas such as security, climate, accommodation, and the tourism product offer.
According to the study, the destination that offered the best value for money during the month of June was Zagreb, located in northwestern Croatia. Despite being among the last in terms of air connectivity, it has a very high level of satisfaction in most of the areas analyzed.
In second place was Athens, Greece, which is better connected than Zagreb but with a slightly higher average price and lower satisfaction levels than the Croatian city.
Large European capitals drop positions
London and Paris, despite being better connected, are penalized by a very high average hotel price among the destinations analyzed. In addition, the two capitals showed lower levels of satisfaction. Visitors are particularly dissatisfied with the hotel service in London and with the offer of tourist products in Paris.
Other big tourist cities such as Berlin, Barcelona and Amsterdam are at the bottom of the list for their high hotel prices and for the level of satisfaction, which remains low.
To read this article in full, please visit: news.gtp.gr
Conducted by Mabrian, a leading tourism intelligence company, the study analyzed air connectivity, the average hotel price, and the levels of satisfaction and perception of visitors.
With regard to air connectivity, Mabrian looked at the number of seats on scheduled flights and the number of cities and countries with which each destination has a direct connection.
The analysis of visitor satisfaction is part of the Mabrian indices that measure the level of satisfaction and perception that visitors have with destinations in general and regarding the most relevant areas such as security, climate, accommodation, and the tourism product offer.
According to the study, the destination that offered the best value for money during the month of June was Zagreb, located in northwestern Croatia. Despite being among the last in terms of air connectivity, it has a very high level of satisfaction in most of the areas analyzed.
In second place was Athens, Greece, which is better connected than Zagreb but with a slightly higher average price and lower satisfaction levels than the Croatian city.
Large European capitals drop positions
London and Paris, despite being better connected, are penalized by a very high average hotel price among the destinations analyzed. In addition, the two capitals showed lower levels of satisfaction. Visitors are particularly dissatisfied with the hotel service in London and with the offer of tourist products in Paris.
Other big tourist cities such as Berlin, Barcelona and Amsterdam are at the bottom of the list for their high hotel prices and for the level of satisfaction, which remains low.
To read this article in full, please visit: news.gtp.gr
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Greece In The News
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Monday, 11 November 2024 12:51
Why Athens Is One Of The Most Accessible Cities To Explore
Athens, a city where ancient history and vibrant modern life come together, is incredibly accessible for visitors, whether they choose to explore on foot or via public transport. With a walkable city center and a diverse public transportation system, Athens offers an easy and affordable way to experience its culture, history, and neighborhoods.
Here’s a closer look at why Athens is one of the most accessible cities in Europe.
A Walkable, Historic City Center
Athens’ city center is a pedestrian’s dream. With key historical areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma all within a short distance of each other, it’s possible to walk between major landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora. Streets like Dionysiou Areopagitou and Apostolou Pavlou are dedicated pedestrian paths, making it easy to explore while enjoying unobstructed views of ancient ruins, lively street musicians, and quaint cafés.
Exploring on foot lets you truly immerse yourself in Athenian culture. From admiring street art in Psyri to savoring freshly baked pastries from local bakeries, walking in Athens offers unique moments that can’t be experienced from behind a car window. The layout encourages a relaxed, exploratory pace that captures the city’s friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
The Athens Metro System
For those who want to venture further or take a break from walking, the Athens Metro offers a convenient, affordable, and efficient solution. The metro system has 3 main lines:
- Line 1 (Green Line - Ilektrikos)
Also known as the "Ilektrikos" or electric railway, Line 1 is the oldest of the metro lines, originally built in 1869. It connects Kifisia in the northern suburbs to Piraeus Port in the south, making it ideal for travelers arriving or departing by ferry. Line 1 passes through Monastiraki and Thissio, two stations near the Acropolis and the vibrant center, making it a great option for tourists. - Line 2 (Red Line)
The Red Line runs from Anthoupoli in the west to Elliniko in the south, providing convenient access to major landmarks and hubs like Syntagma Square and Omonia Square. This line connects the historic center with modern neighborhoods and the southern suburbs, where you can catch the tram to the beachside areas. Stops like Acropoli make this line especially popular with visitors, as it leads directly to the New Acropolis Museum. - Line 3 (Blue Line)
The Blue Line extends from Nikaia in the southwest to Athens International Airport in the east, making it the primary connection between the city and the airport. Along the way, Line 3 passes through Monastiraki and Syntagma, key stops for exploring central Athens. This line is incredibly convenient for international travelers, providing a direct route between the airport and Athens’ main attractions.
The metro is modern, clean, and easy to navigate, with signs in both Greek and English. It’s also well-maintained and includes archaeological displays at certain stations, giving riders a glimpse into Athens’ past as they travel.
The Tram System: A Scenic Coastal Ride
For those who wish to explore the coastal areas of Athens, the tram is a perfect choice. The Athens tram system has 2 main lines, both offering scenic routes that connect the city center with seaside neighborhoods:
- Line T6 (Syntagma to Pikrodafni)
This line runs from Syntagma Square in the city center to Pikrodafni, connecting various neighborhoods in between. It’s a popular choice for those looking to explore more residential areas of Athens while enjoying a slower-paced ride through the city. - Line T7 (Asklipio Voulas to Agia Triada)
The T7 line connects the southern suburbs, from Asklipio Voulas in Voula to Agia Triada in Piraeus, traveling along the scenic Athenian Riviera. This line is especially enjoyable in the warmer months, providing direct access to beaches and coastal cafés. If you’re in the mood for a relaxed day along the Mediterranean, the tram offers a comfortable way to reach Athens’ beautiful coastal destinations.
Buses and Trolleybuses: Covering Every Corner of Athens
Athens has an extensive bus and trolleybus network that covers nearly every corner of the city and its suburbs. Buses and trolleybuses run throughout the day, though service can vary based on the route and time. Some buses run 24 hours, which is helpful for those needing late-night transport, especially to and from the airport.
The bus network can be a bit challenging for first-time visitors, as routes are numerous and schedules can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. However, using apps like OASA Telematics or Moovit can help you track bus locations in real-time. Buses are generally affordable and offer a way to explore residential neighborhoods, lesser-known spots, and more outlying areas.
Important Tips for Public Transport in Athens
While Athens’ public transport options are generally reliable, it’s worth noting that service hours can vary. Metro trains run from early morning until around midnight, with extended hours on weekends, while buses and trams typically follow similar hours. However, late-night service is limited, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you’re out late.
For convenience, travelers can purchase an “Ath.ena” card, which offers access across all public transportation systems and can be reloaded as needed. Tickets are reasonably priced, and there are options for single rides, day passes, and even weekly passes, making it an economical choice for getting around the city.
Overall Accessibility and Flexibility
Despite occasional scheduling limitations, Athens remains highly accessible and easy to navigate. Its compact city center, combined with varied public transport options, allows visitors to explore at their own pace, whether they prefer walking or a quicker ride. The city’s emphasis on pedestrian-friendly zones, coupled with its transportation network, means you can immerse yourself in its history, culture, and scenic beauty without the hassle of renting a car.
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Everyday Tips & How To’s
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