Athens

Few cities rival Athens when it comes to historical importance. As the sun rises over the smooth marble monuments of the Acropolis and fills the cobblestone streets along its base, the people of Athens emerge from their homes and head to local markets or sidewalk games of chess. Life moves more slowly as if the entire city is reveling in blissful retirement from its glory days as a political and cultural powerhouse.

But as the sun sets, Athens' contradictions come to light: The air thickens with the aroma of spiced lamb and music from a nearby taverna, dance clubs blast rock music amidst ancient columns, and the bright lights of Omonia Square mirror the glistening columns of the Parthenon, illuminated for all to see. Central Athens is home to everything from traditional mom-and-pop restaurants – generally located in the older districts at the base of the Acropolis – to high-end establishments in Kolonaki. If you're looking for a great meal away from the tourist crowd, head to some of the quieter neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets, or Pangrati. Keep in mind that Athenians generally don't sit down to dinner until 9 or 10 p.m.

• Country: Greece
• Best Hotels: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens; Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens; The Margi
• Best Things to Do: Acropolis Museum; Plaka; Erechtheion
• Best Months to Visit: Between March and May and From September to November