Athens is a bustling, thriving metropolis with a history that reaches back to the dawn of civilisation. From the Acropolis to farmer’s markets, there is something to see and do around every corner of the city. Home to the Olympics, both ancient and modern, people have visited and relocated here for thousands of years. The main port of Piraeus to the south of Athens brings the world to the city, and goods from around the world show up every day.
People considering the purchase of
property in Greece often consider outlying areas, but Athens itself is an outstanding choice. Firstly, your flights in and out will be cheaper, as you will not need to fly to outlying airports or have the time, expense and hassle of a transfer to another area. Athens offers all the modern amenities.
Real estate in Greece may not have high-speed Internet, or sometimes even power or telephone, depending on how remote the property is; properties in Athens, almost without exception, include all the amenities that modern purchasers require.
Some of the neighbourhoods frequented by tourists to Athens include those in or near the centre of the city. Plaka, Syntagma, Monastiraki and Thissio are four areas favoured by those on holiday, and for those who wish to let their property when they are not in the country, these are prime areas for establishing an income stream. Syntagma is the centre of Athens, with beautiful buildings, large parks and green areas, and of course the Acropolis as its highlight. While it can be crowded and traffic congestion peaks during the summer holiday months, apartments in these areas can command some of the highest rents or leases.
North-west of the Acropolis is the neighbourhood of Monastiraki. Located close to all sights, the neighbourhood has many small shops selling reasonably priced merchandise. The Sunday flea markets are fun to visit, and fruit, vegetable and spice stalls abound in this bustling neighbourhood. Just to the west of Monastiraki is the neighbourhood of Thissio. As with all areas of central Athens, this one is a rabbit warren of twisting streets that do not always connect. However, Thissio houses properties that have clear views of the Acropolis, and offers many bars and restaurants. Very much a walking neighbourhood, Thissio is where many Greeks and visitors alike take their evening stroll.
The neighbourhood of Plaka is the easternmost of the central Athens neighbourhoods, and houses some of the most beautiful architecture in the city. While most of the buildings here are commercial or historical in nature, there are still plenty of apartments to be purchased, in a variety of sizes. For those wishing to rent to upper-end clients, this would be the perfect location as it’s within walking distance of most of Athens’ main attractions and no car would be necessary.
Athens has so much to offer that it is a natural choice for those looking to buy a first holiday apartment or upgrade the one they already own.