CLASSIC DISHES & LOCAL WINES

Athens, Greece

Why go? Never has there been a better time to visit Greece’s first city. Don’t be fooled by its recent economic challenges. If anything, it’s as if Athenians have woken up, looked around and realised what a showstopping city they live in. What to eat Fuelled by a spirit of enterprise and filoxenia (hospitality), new restaurants, bars, galleries, food and beauty brands spring up daily in this extraordinary city. Greek food is made for sharing. Break bread over tzatziki, spicy feta spread and a selection of grilled meats at value-for-money Kalamaki Bar (Dimitrakopoulou & Drakou 15). For a modern take on Greek cuisine mixed with comfort classics that won’t break the bank, head to Pangrati and sit beneath the orange trees at To Mavro Provato ( tomauroprovato.gr). It’s popular, so book to sample stu ed courgette blossoms, lamb in parchment, aubergine salad and a wide range of ouzo and raki. To shop for food to eat or bring home, head to Kolonaki, where lifestyle store Yoleni’s ( yolenis.com) has curated food products including cheese, honey, cured meats and organic oils from Greek suppliers over four floors. It also has a winetasting department hosted by oenologists Botilia, so you can sip your way around a selection of Greek island wines without leaving land. For traditional food shopping, visit the Dimotiki Agora on Athinas Street to buy meat, fish, vegetables and a world-class selection of olives. How to do it Nestled in the foothill of the Parthenon, neoclassical guesthouse Alice Inn Athens has beautiful boutique-style rooms & suites from £45-£85 (winter) to £85-£170 (summer) per night ( aliceinnathens.com). Easyjet has return fares to Athens from around £70 in February ( easyjet.com).