It’s a lot to get through in a weekend but fortunately the best bits are packed into a small area which is easily explored on foot. Base yourself somewhere central - anywhere near the Plaka is ideal - and bring shoes that are meant for walking.

Dump your bags and head straight out to experience the street life of Athens as the locals relax after the working week. The lanes and squares of the historic Plaka neighbourhood are great for people watching, browsing the shops and market stalls or relaxing with a cool glass of ouzo over ice and a plate of meze.

When you’re ready for something more substantial pick a taverna with a rooftop terrace for a stunning floodlit view of Athens’ most famous landmark, the Acropolis. Only tourists eat before nine, so stave off your hunger until the locals start hitting the restaurants.

The places they choose will be better than any tourist trap. For the best experience ignore the set menus and order as they do with a selection of dishes to share rather than individual servings. Be daring with your wine choice - there is much, much more to Greek wine than retsina.

Aim for an early start if you’re visiting the Acropolis today. This world-famous citadel heaves with visitors all year round so it is best to get there before the crowds to appreciate its full beauty. After taking in the glories of monuments like the Parthenon and the Theatre of Dionysus wander back down to the city along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street.

This tree-lined pedestrianised walkway, widely regarded as Europe’s most beautiful street, has stunning views of the Acropolis and the city below. After lunch walk off another epic Greek meal by heading up to the summit of Mount Lycabettus for more spectacular views, followed by coffee and sweet Greek pastries in the lively and arty Exarcheia quarter. Then wrap it all up with a great night out in the buzzing bars of Gazi.

Brave the crowds at the famed Monastiraki flea market. Sunday is the market’s biggest day and the lanes are packed with antiques, bric-a-brac, handcrafts and a mind-blowing array of most other things you can think of.

When you’re ready for lunch take the Line 1 metro to Faliro, where a short walk leads to the marina of Mikrolimano. This is where Athenians come for seafood, served in one of the many restaurants lining the waterfront. Head back to the centre afterwards for coffee and people watching in Syntagma square, followed by a stroll up Ermou Street to window-shop and listen to the buskers. Finally end your weekend with a traditional Greek meal in Psiri district and start planning your next trip to this fascinating city.