Hôtel Mitsis NU Piraeus Port

Sun-kissed Piraeus is a colourful port city, located to the south-west of Athens. Known as the gateway to the Greek islands – from where boats set sail for party paradises like Mykonos and scenic stops such as Hydra – this coastal hotspot is fast-growing in popularity, thanks to its hip mix of culture and cuisine.

If museums and galleries are your thing, be sure to check out the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus – which shines a spotlight on centuries-old artefacts – while you should also make time for the quirky Electric Railways Museum and the Rodeo Gallery, which is a modern art mecca.

You’ll find waterside bliss and plenty of places to eat at the Mikrolimano and Zea marinas, where multi-million-pound yachts bob alongside little fishing boats and seafood is served to perfection at the lively tavernas. Foodies can also sample local flavours at the many eateries neighbouring the Piraeus Flea Market – a bric-a-brac-packed bonanza held every Sunday morning.

For a change of pace, head to the affluent, hilltop neighbourhood of Kastella. After sipping an early evening ouzo while taking in the sweeping coastal views, you can catch a show at the open-air Veakeio Theatre, which runs throughout the summer months.