Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
with industrial decor. Clever gadgets are sprinkled throughout, including the lobby slide
show and aerial shots of the city on the ceilings. Korres organic toiletries and the trendy
Pbox
restaurant add to the vibe. The penthouse's private rooftop spa has sensational
views.
Camping
The
Camping in Greece
booklet, produced by EOT (Greek National Tourist Organisa-
tion), and
www.travelling.gr
list sites in the Attica region. Most campgrounds near
Athens offer basic facilities and are not generally up to European standards. If you must,
Athinon 198, Haidari; camp sites per adult/tent/car €8.50/5/4; year-round; )
, 7km west of
the city centre on the road to Corinth. Better camping options are further afield, at Shini-
as and Cape Sounion.
Eating
Athens' vibrant restaurant scene is marked by a delightful culture of casual, convivial al
fresco dining. Getting together to eat, drink and talk is the main source of entertainment
for Greeks, so you are spoilt for choice. A new generation of chefs draws inspiration
from Greece's regional cuisine and local produce; this results in an interesting blend of
culinary sophistication and grandma's home-style cooking. Trendy nouveau-Greek res-
taurants compete alongside traditional tavernas,
ouzeries
(places that serve ouzo and light
snacks) and quaint old-style
mayiria
(cook houses).
It's hard to avoid eating in Plaka if you are staying there, but the food is generally
overpriced and ho-hum. Gazi and Monastiraki have many modern tavernas that are con-
venient for lining your belly before a night out in nearby clubs. Also in Monastiraki, the
end of Mitropoleos is a souvlaki hub, with musicians adding to the area's bustling atmo-
sphere.
Mezedhopoleia
(restaurants specialising in mezedhes) and more-upmarket res-
taurants can be found around Adrianou. Exarhia's popular eateries cater largely to locals,
while chic Kolonaki has some of the best fine-dining options. At high-end restaurants,
reservations are essential.
STREET FOOD
From vendors sellingkoulouria(fresh pretzel-style bread) and grilled corn or chest-
nuts, to the raft of fast-food offerings, there's no shortage of snacks on the run in
