Newsletter February 2020

Click here to subscribe and receive our newsletter by e-mail.

Farewell sleepy January. February is here - and with it, two perfect excuses for fun-loving Athenians to feast on life and get flirty. During Greece’s version of carnival (apokries), the city counts down to Lent (from 9 February) with three weeks of merriment. Streets ignite with dressed-up locals and clouds of confetti; bars and clubs throw themed parties; and family and friends come together to share grilled meat on Smoky Thursday (tsiknopempti). Into the mix strides Eros on Saint Valentine’s Day, shooting his lusty arrows at rooftop restaurants and seaside sunsets. What better month to embark on a passionate romance with Athens.

From impromptu pavement barbecues and hilltop picnics beneath kite-whipped skies, to shiny happy costume parties and scrumptious seafood feasts, Carnival in Athens is a three-week fling ... and you're all invited. Here's how - and where - to soak up the spirit of apokries. Read more

Romance comes in all different speeds and flavours - and so does Athens. Win at the game of love this Valentine's Day (or any day of the year) with our pick of unforgettable dates - whether you're a foodie, culture vulture, nature buff or night owl. Read more

• With Dry January behind you, warm up with a superb red (like a Nemean Agiorgitiko), born from sun-drenched Greek soil, at an Athenian wine bar 
• Explore non-touristy streets on an Urban Neighbourhoods trek - or prowl romantic Plaka at your own pace with a self-guided Cats of Athens tour
• Make the most of mild temps to discover the walkable wonders of Mount Ymittos, just 20 minutes from the Acropolis. Medieval monasteries, ancient caves and thyme-scented pathways make this green escape one of Athens' best-kept secrets 

Let's Be Kissed
Pucker up for a pulse-raising night of saucy surprises at a Valentine's Day ode to the kiss, at one of the city's buzziest landmarks.
14 Feb

Cyrano De Bergerac
Modern love takes centre-stage as this classic tale of thwarted longing pitches up in contemporary London as an electrifying rap skirmish, starring James McAvoy.
20 Feb

Homer's World - The Mycenaen Age
Dip into the remarkable legacy of the Mycenaeans as the Benaki exhibits a rare prehistoric trove, unearthed on Tinos.
Until 8 March

Lycabettus Run 2020
Sign up for this popular annual race and you'll be rewarded with Zeus-worthy views from Athens' loftiest lookout, Lycabettus Hill.
23 Feb

Balthazar
Find out why the whole world seems to be in tune with this infectious indie act from Belgium when they play the Fuzz Club.
22 March

Athens is addictive.
To get your daily dose, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

We love to feature your photos.
Tag your posts #thisisathens for a chance to join the hall of fame.