TUI is launching a new route from London Gatwick to Athens, recently named the top winter destination by Time Out, where temperatures can occasionally reach the low 20s on particularly sunny winter days. Travellers can enjoy a city break in the European capital that stays mild for much of the winter. The Greek capital joins an expanded Gatwick network of 59 destinations. TUI is also adding services to Palermo, Santiago de Compostela, Seville, Valencia, Tangier, Djerba and Mytilene. Time Out writer John Ovans, spent last winter in Athens, he said “the city never goes into full hibernation mode”. He also suggested Athens could challenge Lisbon as Europe’s leading city for digital nomads, thanks to “cheap living, a warm lifestyle, and a gritty-glamorous vibe”.
While visitors should not expect summer heat, particularly sunny winter days can bring surprisingly mild temperatures. Ovans wrote: “On a good winter day you might get up to the high teens, or even low‐20s on rare extra sunny occasions.” He recommended eating outdoors in the city’s squares, with awnings and gas heaters helping diners enjoy neighbourhoods such as Psirri, Plaka and Exarchia even on sunny days in January and February.
A spring visit also revealed a vibrant and exciting city, reports MyLondon. The Acropolis is worth the climb in any season, offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon and the city below. Another highlight is the National Archaeological Museum, where exhibits include the Artemision Bronze and the Mask of Agamemnon.
For affordable lunches, Athens’ traditional workers’ canteens, historically known as inomagireia or simply magireia, serve hearty, home-style food. These venues dish up stews, soups and casseroles straight from heated trays or pans, making them a good option for budget-conscious visitors.
Across TUI’s wider network, the new routes will add 640,000 seats and open up previously unconnected destinations in Spain, Greece, Italy, Slovenia, Tanzania, Cape Verde and Morocco. Most services will operate two to three times a week, reports The Mirror.
TUI Airline chief commercial officer Peter Glade said: “Gatwick has played a central role in the development of TUI’s airline business in the UK for more than six decades. For generations of customers across London, the south and southwest of England, it has been the gateway to their holidays.
“Expanding our portfolio to 59 destinations is a natural next step as we continue to invest in one of the most important markets. The additional flying creates more opportunities for customers, supports continued growth in both package holiday and flight-only demand, and reinforces our long-term commitment to Gatwick.”