With its fusion of contemporary charm and ancient ruins, Athens is a city that must be visited at least once. Even if you’ve visited several times, the rate of change means that there’s always something new and impressive to check out. Be it a fleeting visit, weekend away, or break in the sun, this vibrant city and its choice of luxury villa rentals welcomes guests with open arms.

Island hopping often starts in Athens, making it grossly overlooked as a destination in itself. However, the city has a surprising number of pretty beaches if you don’t mind jumping in the car. Just 60km from the city, you’ll feel a world away at Legrena beach. Situated within a protective cove, the waters are crystal clear, if not a bit cold out of season. Then there’s Schinias beach a superbly sandy stretch of coast with umbrellas and shade for guests to use. For convenience though, Varkiza beach is a quick bus ride away in a lively local suburb. This is rather handy for facilities, with cafes and restaurants drawing in a local crowd, whilst tourists drop in from their nearby villa rentals.

Take a step back in time and visit the archaeological ruins of The Acropolis. Towering over the city, it’s a reflective place to take in the view and imagine former Greek philosophers who debated the universe from this very spot. The Parthenon Temple is a must for any first-timer, along with the impeccably preserved amphitheatre that is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. For more of this good stuff, the Museum of Cycladic Art pays homage to the city’s great history with numerous artefacts to mull over. It’s one of many impressive museums you’ll stumble across during your time here, including the Acropolis Museum. Perhaps though, one of the best ways to uncover Athens is by getting lost in its many cobbled streets. Ermou Street is a great place to start, as you get swept up in the local street food movement – be sure to try a koulouri (the Greek’s answer to pretzels!). Be sure to pass by ‘The Tomb of the Unknown Solider’ at Old Royal Square - a carefully guarded cenotaph paying tribute to its military lost in the war. The pom-pom shoes worn by the soldiers are iconic. Foodies should check out Varvakios Agora market for local delights to bring back to the luxury villa rental. And, as you continue your culinary tour of the city, book a table at Grande Bretagne restaurant and enjoy the best view in the house of the Acropolis. Complete your evening with a night at the open air cinema ‘Cine Paris’ or at one of the many rooftop bars to make the most of the climate.

As the hottest city in Europe, Athens can reach sweltering temperatures in the height of summer. Great if your luxury villa rental has a pool – less so if otherwise. To enjoy less intense weather, the period between March and May is a fun time to visit the city, especially if you coincide it with the Greek Easter in April – their biggest religious celebration. September and October are also great months to visit the city, especially with less crowds, making it better value for money.

As you’d expect from a city of great contrasts, there’s lots of different neighborhoods to sample. First-timers will enjoy the central locations of Syntagma and Plaka, whilst seasoned visitors and those with families may appreciate Kolonaki, thanks to its proximity to museums and galleries, and slightly quieter vibe. In contrast, if you’re here to party – Psyri is a lively part of town to base yourself. Athens luxury villa rentals are always in high demand, and make the perfect choice for peace and tranquillity with all the trappings of luxury. Meanwhile, The Four Seasons Astir brings all the classic touches of first-class luxe, whilst AthensWas is very much a design-led hotel for the hipsters. Time given, whisk yourself away to one of the many Greek islands for a day or longer. For all the luxury vibes, Mykonos is a five-hour boat ride away (half the time by hovercraft), with Mykonos luxury villas known for their chic Cyclades style you don’t want to miss.

Global Luxury Villas offers luxurious properties in some of the world’s most revered destinations.