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If you’re looking to combine a city break in Athens with a Greek island, then the nearby Saronic Islands are a good option. Start by exploring historic Athens, which is an intriguing mix of east and west and home to some incredible treasures, including the ancient Acropolis - a hilltop citadel perched on a rocky outcrop.

The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, is perfectly proportioned and considered the finest Doric masterpiece in the world. You can see marvellous displays of sculptures, vases, jewellery and other artefacts from Ancient Greece at both the Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum.

You can explore the Monastiraki neighbourhood packed with rooftop bars, visit the huge Varvakios Agora market, and wander through the narrow pedestrianised streets of the 19th century Plaka district, in the shadow of the Acropolis. You can also take the cable car (or hike) up Lycabettus Hill for wonderful views over the city.

Other sites include the Temple of Poseidon, Museum of Cycladic Art,  the parklands of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. In the summer you can watch an outdoor movie at Cine Paris, with views of the Acropolis. From Athens you can also take a day trip to the archaeological site at Delphi.

Then take the fast hydrofoil ferry from the port of Piraeus to the scenic Saronic Islands, which run south from Athens and hug the sheltered shoreline of the eastern Peloponnese. Many Athenians have holiday homes on these beautiful islands, with their red tiled roofs, aromatic pine trees running down to the rocky shoreline, small shingle beaches, delightful coves and sparklingly clear sea. Hydra has a historic port that climbs up the hillside, with many elegant sea captains’ mansions.

All forms of private motorised transport are banned on this island. Aegina is the closest island to Piraeus, Poros is close to the Peloponnese mainland, and Spetses is the furthest away. Agistri is on a separate line, so connects only via Piraeus.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a self-catering or B&B basis. Flights from London are included, with other regional departures on request. Airport transfers and ferries in Greece are also included. Car hire is available on request.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance and an appropriate driving licence, if you intend to hire a car. The AA and FCO should also be consulted.