Immersed in ancient mythology and rich history, Athens is an intriguing city made up of warm and friendly people, cobblestoned pathways that wind through the ancient sites and outdoor cafes serving traditional Greek specialties such as Moussaka, Horiatiki Salata (also known as ‘Greek Salad’) and Ouzo. The pace is very relaxed. Things can become almost like a non-stop party, especially when both locals and tourists dance into the wee hours of the morning to the booming traditional bouzouki music at local taverns and clubs.

Although the city may seem congested at times, its beauty and charisma make up for it in more ways than one. The historic center, major sites, dining and entertainment are all set close together, making it a great walking city. Among the top reasons Athens attracts so many tourists is our fascination with the ancient ruins and temples said to be left behind by the Greek gods and goddesses. Visit one of the world’s most magnificent and awe inspiring places in ancient Greece, the Acropolis. Here you can witness the legendary Parthenon which has influenced more architectural designs in the western world than any other. Next, wander into Plaka, the oldest section of Athens, that is renowned for its small shops, restaurants and unique architecture. Here, you don’t have to worry about any automobile traffic as most streets have been closed off. Just be cautious of the occasional speeding motorcycle.

For the avid shopper, a great spot not to be missed is the Monastiraki Square where you can enjoy all that is Greek. Here you will encounter souvenirs galore, some at very good bargains, including jewelry, ceramics and antiques among others. Visit the square on a Sunday before 11am to experience the Monastiraki Flea Market. For the sports enthusiasts, a trip to the Panathenaic Stadium is a must. It was home to the first modern Olympic Games and is the only stadium made entirely of marble. When all is said and done, in Athens you can retreat to Piraeus, the largest sea port in Greece, and catch a ferry to explore some of the most amazing islands Greece has to offer. Greece's monetary unit is the Euro. No other currency is accepted and it is best to exchange dollars or other currency at a bank. The exchange rates are all the same throughout the country and you exchange money at a bank or official exchange shop where you will get the best rates. The best way to access money while in Greece is through the ATMs that are present in every large or small city. If you have a debit card that doubles as a Visa or MC you can access your money right from your bank account back home. Most credit cards charge a fee (about 3%) for currency exchange. Athens is known to be one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with a semi-arid climate and low average annual rainfall. The rain that does occur falls during the winter months, between mid-October and mid-April, usually as short, heavy showers. Summers are very hot, exacerbated by smoggy conditions, and heat waves are common during July and August when the mercury soars to over 104°F (40ºC). Winters are mild although frost can occur and nights can be cold. The best time to travel to Athens is during the cooler, fine weather of spring and summer. Athens has one airport, Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International which is located 33km southeast of Athens and is easily accessible via Attiki Odos, a six-lane motorway constituting the Athens City Ring Road. Public transport to Athens and the port of Piraeus is provided by metro, railway and express airport buses, ensuring efficient transport for air travellers and facilitating linkage to key tourist attractions. The airport is also serviced by six public bus routes, which connect to destinations in the greater area of Athens and Piraeus, buses running frequently day and night. Athens International is connected to Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station) by the Suburban Rail line. Finally, there are plenty of taxis to be hired in front of the airport terminals, fares are charged on a per km basis. 220V 50 Hz The official language is Greek with English spoken in many tourist areas. Embassy of Canada
Address: 4, Ioannou Ghennadiou Street, 115 21 Athens
Tel.: 30 (210) 727-3400 Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 between last Sunday in April and last Sunday in October).