WHERE TO STAY...

I’d suggest Astir Palace Four Seasons and The Margi. Located just 30 minutes form the city, they are nestled along a seaside peninsula, offering the best of both worlds. These seaside hideaways highlight private beaches and exciting restaurants (Matsuhisa and Nobu) perfect for any family holiday. If you're looking to stay in the centre of it all, I always like to recommend the Hotel Grande Bretagne, a fabulous hotel with the most amazing views of the Acropolis.

WHere to eat…

Great spots for lunch are Malconis, this fun gastropub is wonderful for long lazy lunches that draw an international crowd and Akti where there are no boundaries between the restaurant and sea.

Another family favourite is Zonars Athénée which has been called “the best restaurant in the best location” in Athens. Since opening in 1939, the Athenian institution has hosted the who's who since the late 30's from Sophia Loren to Anthony Quuin. Make sure you make a reservation and enjoy - it is delicious!

WHat to do…

Sitting above the city of Athens is the iconic Acropolis - one of the most important and striking ancient sites. Don't miss out on the Acropolis Museum, which was built to house every artifact found on the Acropolis and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Era. 

Make sure you head to Plaka, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens, commonly known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," due to its proximity to the Acropolis and its many archaeological sites. 

This area is lined with cobblestone streets and small unique artisanal shops, sidewalk cafés and family run taverns like Taverna Saita. 

WHERE TO EAT:

Orloff is s one of my favourite restaurants on the island. Located in the Old Harbour of Spetes, it offers delicious traditional Greek cooking, a charming atmosphere and a magical view with the terrace overlooking the islands of Hydra, Dokos and Trikeri. Some of our favourite evenings have been spent there with family and friends. 

Tarsanas is also the most wonderful fish tavern, again located in the Old Port of Spetses – a great lunch or dinner spot with lovely views of the Old Harbour. 

Head to BIKINI for post dinner drinks and great music – it is the after-dinner hotspot.

WHERE TO STAY

The Poseidonion Grand Hotel is an iconic landmark. A firm favourite. I also love to recommend Hotel Orloff to friends.

WHERE TO SHOP…

I love Ratih natural lifestyle.......from rattan tote bags to hand-painted sarongs and of course lots of evil eye treasures…you’ll be sure to find lots of local goodies. 

I also can’t not visit Soho Soho – it is a great boutique and it is always fun to do a little shopping before dinner!

WHAT TO DO

There are endless beautiful beaches to visit and sea caves to explore – I’d recommend renting a lovely traditional wooden Kaiki sailboat, packing a picnic and spending the day exploring the different beaches along the coast of sun-soaked Spetses. 

Make sure you visit the Old Harbour Lighthouse and Bouboulina museam – the 17th century mansion of Greek revolutionary Laskarina Bouboulina, for a nice dose of culture. 

We love to have pre-dinner drinks at one of the many lovely cafés along the port – a very pretty and buzzy spot, lined with colourful fishing boats, Yachts and sailboats. I also feel it would be remiss to not take a horse and carriage ride - a Spetses signature. It’s a fun way to get around if you are in a rush.