As August is the month when most locals take their leave from work, it feels as though the city is finally given a breath of fresh air. Public spaces, streets and shops are less packed with people, and in some areas, the song of cicadas drown out the honking cars. Even the morning traffic, an otherwise common cause of headaches and road rage, runs smooth.

People are drawn to the sea and to the outdoor spaces of cafés and bars, where fans spin on their highest settings. Their mood is light, as expected after a day spent at the beach and finding a parking space without trouble (an incredible luxury in many neighbourhoods). Many take the chance to discover areas they don’t usually have time to visit; parks, marinas, and seaside esplanades fill with happy faces. In the evenings, some practice yoga under the stars, while others catch movies at the outdoor cinemas.

It’s the Athenians’ favorite time in their city, and a great time to visit (provided you can stand the heat).

Follow the links below for our pick of places, treats, activities and attractions for a cool city break.

Athens A-Z

A for Aeolou and Anafiotika.

B for Beaches and Beer.

C for Cocktails.

D for Dexameni and Design.

E for Evzones.

F for Fishing and Freddo.

G for Garden.

H for Handmade.

I for Ice cream and Island getaways.

J for Jogging and Juice bars.

K for Koukaki and Kite surf.

L for Lake Vouliagmeni.

M for Mikrolomano.

N for Niarchos.

O for Outdoor cinemas and Odeon of Herodes Atticus.  

P for Piraeus.

Q for Quiet cafés.

R for Restaurants and Riviera.

S for Street food.  

T for Terraces.

U for UV protection.

V for Vantage Points.  

W for Wine bars.  

X for X95 buses.

Y for Yoga.

Z for Zesti.