Athens

Except for August and major holidays, when many Athenians migrate to their ancestral villages outside the city, the streets are crowded. The best times to visit the city are late fall and spring, when you can avoid the oppressive heat and the hordes at major archaeological sites; you can also enjoy the bustling nightlife in the center, because after June many restaurants and clubs shut down or relocate to the seaside. Holy Week of the Orthodox Easter, usually in April or May, is a chance to observe Greece's most sacred holiday, including mournful Good Friday processions and the candlelit Easter midnight service.

If you must come in summer, visit the sights in the early morning; then—as the Greeks do—take a nap or eat a leisurely lunch before continuing your explorations after 5 pm when several museums and sites are still open.

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• Acropolis of Athens : Ancient citadel overlooking the city of Athens. The temple on this hill is probably the most recognizable monument in Greece.

• Olympic Stadium : The Olympic games originated in Greece. The original stadium built in 1896, helps bring the world together every four years.

• Psyrri : A trendy neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, boutique shops and vibrant nightlife.

• Mount Lycabettus : Take a cable car to the top of this peak for a sprawling view of Athens, with the Acropolis right in the middle.

• Church of Panagia Kapnikarea : One of the oldest Greek Orthodox churches in Athens, this 11th century building feels out of place surrounded by modern buildings and chain stores.

• National Archeological Museum : This houses an immense collection of Greek artifacts.

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