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Volotea celebrates its 10th anniversary! To celebrate this important milestone, we invite you to retrace the company’s 10 years through the discovery of 10 Volotea bases.

On 5 April 2012, a new low-cost airline made its first flight from Venice to Cagliari. Since then, Volotea aircraft have crossed European skies, transporting more than 40 million passengers and connecting more and more cities: today we have over 100 destinations in 16 countries with a map of 360 routes, and keep growing.

Volotea cities are the heart and essence of flying so, to celebrate our anniversary, we thought we would introduce you to some of our operational bases.

We invite you to leave with us on a journey back in time to discover 10 cities that have made the history of the company. 10 bases, one per year, the year of their inauguration.

2012: NANTES

The charming old town, the relaxing green spaces and the dynamic cultural life will win you over as soon as you set foot in Nantes.

This lively city located along the Loire estuary is full of tourist attractions and art displays; the many works of art and museums have in fact contributed to giving new life to the city, renewing its industrial heritage.

Unmissable experiences in Nantes:

Cycle along the green line to discover one of the most “bike-friendly” cities in France
Spend an evening at the Hangar à bananes, one of the many bars, restaurants and displays overlooking the Loire
Discover the installations on the Estuaire Trail between Nantes and Saint-Nazaire
Taste Muscadet wine in the city bars or exploring the vineyards in the Nantes region
Immerse yourself in culture visiting the city’s main monuments and museums, like the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, the Cathedral, and the Museum of Fine Arts

2013: PALERMO

Palermo will cast a spell on your senses: eclectic, chaotic, fragrant, colourful, with a fascinating millenary history that peeps out on every corner, Palermo is a continuous discovery. Its rich cultural heritage, its exotic, lively personality, its fantastic gastronomy, and its paradise beaches near the city are just some of the things that make Palermo one of the most surprising destinations in Italy.

Unmissable experiences in Palermo:

Visit the Cathedral and the catacombs
Try the street food and Sicilian specialties
Take a swim in the many dream beaches along the Palermo coast
Explore the Teatro Massimo and the entire historic centre

2014: ASTURIAS

Asturias is famous as a true paradise for lovers of nature and active life: lush natural parks, long wild beaches where you can surf or relax in the sun, mountains to explore where you can do some fantastic trekking… But those looking for a culture break will not be disappointed by Asturias: the cities, the charming small villages and the traditional museums are unmissable, as well as the rich local gastronomy. You will always be warmly welcome!

Unmissable experiences in Asturias:

Visit the three main cities of the region: Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés.
Unwind in one of the stunning local natural parks , where time seems to have stood still
Try the local specialities in one of the charming seaside villages, such as Llanes or Cudillero
Surf the waves at one of the endless local beaches, like Peñarronda.

2015: VERONA

Ever since Shakespeare chose it as the setting for his famous tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Verona has earned a reputation as the romantic city par excellence. Indeed, this Unesco World Heritage city will conquer anyone’s heart, thanks to a well-preserved historic centre, a Roman Arena where unmissable operas are staged, a splendid province where rolling hills give unique wines to the world. And who wouldn’t like to sip a spritz while lazily watching life from one of the city’s magnificent piazze?

Unmissable experiences in Verona:

Attend a concert in the dreamy Verona Arena
Enjoy a break from exploring the historic centre in Piazza delle Erbe, the beating heart of the city
Declare eternal love to your partner (or to yourself) under Juliet’s balcony
Have a delicious aperitif and taste the excellent local wines, such as Lugana or Valpolicella
Take a trip to Lake Garda, with its Mediterranean climate, its spas, and the charming villages scattered along its shores

2016: TOULOUSE

Lively Toulouse, France’s fourth largest city, is known as “the pink city” for the colour of its buildings, which take on a particularly striking hue in the light of sunset. The beautiful Vieux Quartier, the historic centre, seamlessly flows into the more modern and busy part of Toulouse, a cutting-edge research hub as well as an important university city. The diverse urban landscape has a beautifully melancholy air when viewed from the old bridges over the Garonne.

Unmissable experiences in Toulouse:

Stroll through the alleys of the Carmes district
Enjoy a show in one of Toulouse’s cultural institutions: La Cave Poésie or the Cineteca, both on rue du Taur
Enjoy local delicacies and wines and go shopping in the elegant Saint-Etienne district
Like Nantes, Toulouse also has its own space dedicated to giants: the Giant Machines in the Montaudran district
At sunset, take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Garonne and admire the incredible view over the Dôme de la Grave!

2017: BILBAO

If you are an architecture fan, Bilbao is undoubtedly a must. With its avant-garde museums, including the incredible Guggenheim, and futuristic buildings, the city has focused on new architectural trends and culture to recycle its industrial past. We feel you should also know that some of the best chefs in the world have opened their restaurants here, and the beaches near Bilbao are spectacular. Already looking for a plane ticket to the Basque Country, are you?

Unmissable experiences in Bilbao:

Marvel at the Guggenheim’s stunning titanium building and admire its collection of modern art
At lunchtime, take a tour of the different bars in the picturesque Casco Viejo to do some “picar” (nibbling) on pintxos and txacoli (the local sparkling wine)
Treat yourself to a dreamy boat ride along the Ría, the urban estuary where the river meets the sea
If you visit the city in early July, don’t miss the huge BBK music festival, where world-famous musicians perform every year

2018: ATHENS

Athens, the birthplace of democracy, is one of those cities you absolutely must visit once in a lifetime. Not only because of its incredible historical heritage, which is a real draw for tourists from all over the world, but also for its irresistible atmosphere: Athens knows it has a lot to offer, but it doesn’t seem to give too much importance to its own beauty. It is precisely this informal and somewhat anarchic air that made us fall in love with her. Trust us on this.

Unmissable experiences in Athens:

After making a stop at the Acropolis, discover the most authentic Athens by following the advice of our local experts
Greek cuisine is a true explosion of flavours; try its most distinctive dishes in Plaka restaurants
Discover the hipster soul of Athens and its vibrant cultural and nightlife in more alternative neighbourhoods, like Metaxourgeio
Enjoy the view of the city from the top of Mount Lycabettus, preferably at sunset
Depart from here to discover the wonderful Greek islands, such as Mykonos or Santorini

2019: CAGLIARI

The capital of Sardinia is a delightful town on a human scale, perfect for a break from the island’s paradise beaches but also to enjoy a cultural weekend any time of the year. In the charming fortified district of Castello you can take a walk through history and enjoy splendid views of the city, while in the port area you will be greeted by the salty air and typical trattorias serving gorgeous fish dishes. A few kilometres from the town centre, the lovely coastline is particularly lively in the summer months, while the lagoon areas are the home habitat of pink flamingos and many other bird species.

Unmissable experiences in Cagliari:

Enjoy the view of the city and its surroundings from one of its seven hills
Treat yourself to a delicious aperitif at Saint Remy fortress
Immerse yourself in the history of Sardinia with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum
Spend the afternoon swimming and the evening lounging around at Poetto beach
Watch the diverse aquatic fauna in Molentargius Park

2020: NAPLES

Could its proximity to Mount Vesuvius be the reason why Naples releases so much energy? Or is it the influence of its three millennia of history, which have seen a succession of invasions, attacks, and natural disasters, forging the character of this city so strongly? Whatever the explanation, no one can remain indifferent to the chaotic but absolutely irresistible personality of this city that assaults its visitors’ senses. The smells of Neapolitan gastronomy, the noises of traffic and street vendors, the colours of the hanging clothes and the Nativity figurines, the view of its gulf, one of the most beautiful in the world… Naples is not a destination, it’s a state of mind that cannot be described. One you need to experience.

Unmissable experiences in Naples:

Take a leisurely stroll through the alleys of the historic centre, a World Heritage Site
Prepare your stomach for the local street food: pizza, sfogliatelle, babà, cuoppo, and so on and so forth. And of course don’t forget na tazzulella e cafè!
Explore the city from an alternative point of view from underground Naples
Plan a trip to Pompeii and the beautiful islands in the Gulf of Naples

2021: LYON

The home city of the Lumière brothers is not only pilgrimage site for cinephiles, but for all art lovers. With over 20 spectacular museums, gorgeous UNESCO-protected neighbourhoods, and cultural offerings for all tastes, elegant Lyon bewitches beauty lovers. Good food also has its home here: your mouth will water constantly in the gourmet capital of France.

Unmissable experiences in Lyon:

Get lost in the corridors of the Musée des Confluences as you go on a journey through the history of humanity
Try typical Lyonnaise cuisine in the local bouchons
Find the many street art works scattered around the city
Witness the evocative performances of the Festival of Lights, held every year in early December

And the Volotea cities continue to increase: the latest arrival is Lille, the new base we opened in 2022. We invite you to discover all the cities you can reach with our flights and keep getting inspired, discovering, travelling!

Feeling like visiting a vibrant travel destination? Athens, the capital of Greece, is a “divine” destination where timeless vibes are blended with an alternative urban culture.

Athens is a city made for everyone. Are you travelling solo? Find your local paths and meet Athenians and tourists from all over the world. Are you looking for some family-friendly activities? Get your team and enjoy unlimited walks in beautiful neighborhoods and family restaurants. Experience all Athens has to offer, no car needed.

Athens is basically a walkable city, with easily navigable numbered streets and many means of transport including metro, bus and tram. When it comes to the historic center where you ‘re definitely going to spend most of your visit, it’s pedestrianized in many parts.

WHEN TO TRAVEL TO ATHENS

When it comes to Athens, there’s one thing you should bear in mind and know for sure! Athens is an all year round destination. It’s your call whether you will choose to visit Athens in spring time or during summer, autumn or even in winter. Reap the benefits of what each season has to offer! In summer you can enjoy day trips to islands while during the rest of the seasons you can discover the urban sight and the alluring nights of Athens. And that’s just getting started!

HOW TO DISCOVER ICONIC ATHENS LIKE A LOCAL

As mentioned above Athens is a truly vibrant place. A place that blends its timeless character with a new contemporary point of view. But what makes a vibrant place?

You’ll find out by exploring the city’s hidden sports and districts. Of course there are some must-sees but there’s more to uncover when it comes to less touristy places. Let’s see what you can’t miss during a stay in the city.

Squares must sees

Agia Eirini square
Varnava square
Gkazi square (Kerameikos station)
Syntagma square
Monastiraki square and its busy narrow streets

Less touristy squares

Athens graffiti Volotea — Street art in Athens

Green spots for your walks

National Garden
Zappeio
Kallimarmaro Panathenaic stadium
Areopagitou street (Filopappou district)
Pedion tou Areos
Ermou street
Akadimia Platonos
Stavros Niarchos Cultural Center

Under the Athenian night sky – view from above

Food and Drink

It is important to immerse yourself in all aspects of a place, be it the food, the music, the architecture or the history! Those of you who love strolling around the city center, will be amazed by the number and the variety of cafes, restaurants, rooftops, bars and bakeries. All together make Athens a vibrant city perfect for explorers. Whether you are looking for a brunch, or a cocktail, Athens has it all.

Do not miss to try some iconic tastes

Spanakopita
Greek salad with Feta cheese
Gyros with Tzatziki
Saganaki cheese
Moussaka or Pastitsio
Galaktompoureko

Contemporary Culture

Athens is full of cultural centers. Most of them offer discounts, special events with free admission and they are centrally located and easily accessible. Athenians and tourists love such places as they are perfect for some cultural exchange!

3 Must visit spots

Urban lifestyle

Local Athenians say, “Athens is the new Berlin” and that’s how the urban story of this amazing city goes. A dynamic city full of energy and a vivid lifestyle. Graffiti art by famous artists can be found almost everywhere. There are also many tours available to help you gain an insight into the unique culture.

Do you fancy alternative bars, clubs and cafes or prefer to grab a beer with a friend or even enjoy a glass of wine after work? Athens is ready to fulfill whatever your heart desires! People gather together in the most incredible places. At hipster spots like Metaxourgeio district you can find a more artistic character, live performances performed live music or an alternative theatrical play.

Urban, vibrant and hipster districts

UNCOVER TIMELESS ATHENS

Athens is the capital of Greece, myths, God’s, democracy and deep rooted history. Iconic Athens is synonymous with its iconic monuments.

Timeless Athens

Throughout the course of time, the ancient Athenian character remains vivid and alive, making this city’s history and value timeless for its visitors. So If you want to experience history at its finest, then you should definitely visit God’s neighborhood, Plaka and The Acropolis.

The Acropolis has stood for millennia. Visitors can explore more than twenty attractions including Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus. Visit the Sacred Rock and don’t forget to check in at the Acropolis museum. Enjoy a coffee or a meal with a historical view.

Culture

National Gallery: National Gallery is the new talk of the town as it opened its doors only in 2021. A contemporary building with art treasures, collections and magnificent exhibitions inside.
National archaeological museum: The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is considered one of the greatest museums in the world and contains the richest collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity worldwide.
Athenian Trilogy: consists of National Library, University of Athens and Academy; for those who are looking for the Neoclassical side of Athens.

Extra tip: Search for the free admission days.

Mount Lycabettus Athens — Mount Lycabettus

Archaeological Site of Sounion Poseidon Temple: the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, built during 444–440 BC, is one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens. A Doric temple, it overlooks the sea at the end of Cape Sounion. Do not miss experiencing a golden hour visit.
Athenian Riviera: Athenian Riviera is considered to be an all time classic. It is ideally located in the seaside suburb of Vouliagmeni, approx. 25 kms away from Athens city center. Hop on the tram (starts at Syntagma square) and make your way to the seaside.
Athenian “Monmarte”: locate Nikiforou Theotoki street on google maps in the Mets area and discover the Athenian Montmartre. You can easily combine this walk with a visit to Panathenaic stadium and Ardittou hill.

IS ATHENS SAFE FOR TRAVEL?

If you find yourself wondering whether Athens is safe for travel, then the answer is Yes! In fact, Athens is considered to be a very safe city for you to travel. Just catch the next flight and discover all it has to offer. Whether you ‘re travelling solo or with company, this city can be easily and safely walked around. As a traveler in Athens you basically won’t meet any troubles, as long as you stay in a certified lodge and take care of your personal belongings especially in crowded places.

Of course, always do check any latest travel advice and warnings by formal authorities. Also keep an eye on any special alerts including how to stay safe during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. So, get on board confidently!

FEELING LIKE EXPLORING GREEK ISLANDS FROM ATHENS?

Then these two islands should definitely be on your bucket list: Mykonos and Santorini. Do not miss the opportunity of finding your myth in one of the two most popular Greek islands.

The secret side of Greece

A revitalizing escape in Greece

Athens is a city full of pleasant surprises for those on the lookout for good deals.

Gold and silver jewellery represents an interesting domain, given the worldwide reputation of Greek jewellery designers. Mainly found in the Syntagma and Kolonaki neighbourhoods, the numerous jewellery shops offer a large collection of Ancient Greek jewellery reproductions, as well as traditional and modern pieces. The majority are handmade by local craftspeople. Numerous boutiques also offer pieces in silver filigree and turquoise – mainly from the city of Ioannina in Epirus – decorated with beautiful traditional motifs.

The Ilias Lalaounis jewellery museum is certainly worth visiting. Over 3000 pieces of jewellery are on display. Its 45 collections are testament to the history of Greek jewellery, mostly inspired by the art and architecture of eleven successive civilisations, as well as by nature, technology and biology. The famous furs of Kastoria – a city in the north of Greece – are the product of an art perfected over the centuries, and are also worth mentioning. The neighbourhood of Syntagma is home to many shops offering fur coats, jackets and hats in classic or modern cuts.

Good purchases also include souvenirs, handmade objects and bronze cups. Copper, terracotta and ceramics represent the domains for which Athens has stood out since ancient times. The ideal place to seek out unique pieces of ceramic art and Greek vases is the suburb of Maroussi, where the majority of creators and producers sell their work in small boutiques. Jumpers with original cuts knitted in very high quality wool or cotton also make good purchases, along with leather shoes and various other items created by Greek designers. You’ll need to visit Ermou Street and Kolonaki Square to find these. You’ll also find numerous second-hand objects and antiques in various shops in Kolonaki, Syntagma and Monastiraki such as furniture, hand-painted wooden chests, toys and models, knick-knacks, etc.

One thing is certain, whether you’re a shopping addict or just want to get a good deal, Athens won’t disappoint you!

We know you’re already dreaming of your next trip to Greece and we want to help you dive into your next travel experience. Whether you’re flying to Corfu, Athens or Crete, we’ve put together a playlist of music that originates from this beautiful area and is representative of its sonic identity.

To get even more insight into the area we spoke to Ilia from Athens duo IOTAPHI and asked her about her thoughts and tips regarding the spirit of your destination. Read about it on our travel blog.

When did you start making your own music and what was it like to begin with?

I wrote my first songs with this electro punk band I formed while still being in school. Everything was really exciting; Athens had a very vibrant underground music scene at the time and we were discovering the world through music.

Describe where you live in ten words or less.

Blessed to live between the mountains and the sea.

What are the top things you’d suggest music fans visiting your region should go and see/do/eat/drink?

I feel there’s a ton of things to do and see visiting Greece. The islands are pure magic, there’s so much breathtaking beauty, history and culture to feed your soul.

If I were to concentrate in Athens and the peripherals, I’d say go to Cape Sounio to see the Temple of Poseidon and feel the air. It’s surrounded on three sides by the sea and it’s pretty magical.

Walk around the old town to see the ruins, eat souvlaki and feel the chaotic vibe of Athens.

At night I would go to Cantina Social and I would probably end up for a night swim at the Riviera, after having climbed up mount Lycabettus to take in the view of the town.

I would definitely experience the open-air cinemas. Athens open-air film festival has never disappointed me.

We have some pretty big music festivals taking place like Ejekt Festival; where we have played, Rockwave festival and Add festival with amazing electronic music.

Having traveled a lot I dare to say that one of the best things visiting Athens is that you can easily meet people and hang out with them. They will probably show you all the little secret things happening and enjoy the town not just like a tourist, but also as a part of the city.

Do you have any favorite record stores or flea markets?

The biggest and most well known flea market is the one at Monastiraki, in the old town of Athens. It does get a bit crowded during the summer months, but you can always find some cool stuff to love and feel that you have to have.

Two of my favorite record stores would be Kasseta Record Shop, at Sofokleous 5, it’s in the centre of Athens and then if you’re looking for rock n’ roll and soul classics try Rock n’ Roll Circus, at Sina 21.

Does living in Greece influence the music you make?

I’ve lived most of my adult life in London and Los Angeles, but I’m made of these rocks and the blue and the Chaos of Greece. As I evolve in music, I realize more and more where the melodies come from and that’s from the inside. I’ve decided to use Kanonaki/Santur in the project while being in California, so I think it’s actually being from Greece that influences the sound, not necessarily that I live here right now.

Where would you go for a walk on a first date?

I’d go for a walk at Dionisiou Aeropagitou around sunset. It’s a pedestrian street at the slope of Acropolis, where you can also access the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the museum of Acropolis. This could actually be my favorite walk in the world. The energy is very strong yet soothing.

I would also try to visit the Acropolis museum by night, there are some nights where they stay open till 12am or 2am.

What are the top things you’d suggest visitors to your country should go and see/do during summer?

If you’re traveling to Mykonos, you have to see Delos. Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and also one of the most cosmopolitan places of ancestry. Dense history and culture on a tiny piece of land. You can only visit by boat during the day, because it’s not allowed to stay overnight.

If you are visiting the beautiful Kefalonia, besides its natural beauty, I would try not to miss Saristra Festival; a great initiative to designate and promote an abandoned village of the island cleverly utilizing public space.

If you’re visiting Crete, Elafonissi is one of the prettiest beaches I’ve ever laid eyes on with pink sand and coral reefs.

A weekend getaway close to Athens is Hydra. The island of artists, a place without cars where time can go back to what it actually is, not an enemy.

Last but not least I would go to Milos! Milos is a volcanic island in the Aegean Sea with scenery resembling Martian landscapes. Milos is actually the inspiration for our song Hypertopos, a place beyond this place… Its sculptured shoreline and crystal waters will enchant you.

Who’s your biggest local musical influence, past and/or present?

Maria Callas, Mary and The Boy, Manos Hatzidakis.

Which museums or art galleries are not to miss?

SNFCC it’s not a museum nor a gallery but a cultural center. They always have tons of things going on and it’s located at a beautiful site, by the sea.

The Breeder (45 Iasonos st, 10436, Athens) Small yet very important gallery taking care some of our most talented artists, like Jannis Varelas, Maria Hassabi, Hope.

I would also not miss the sculpture theatre Aixoni at Glyfada, designed by Nella Golanda who I was lucky enough to meet and converse with. We have shot some of our visual work there. I feel it’s a unique awe evoking work that transcends time, harmonically integrated into the scenery.

But if I were to be more specific and fair to Greece, I would cite Costas Tsoklis “So if all those wild rocks were actually works of art and we hadn’t realized it, then it’s not true that we live cut off from contemporary art. We are not uneducated peasants who never set foot in a museum. On the contrary, we live in colossal museums only there is no sign marking the entrance.”

Hoping you can have an experience of a lifetime; take the warmth of the sun and the people with you.

Athens means an artistic and cultural journey across centuries, in the city streets and districts, as well as in its multiple museums. Whether you are a fan of museums or not, this one will dazzle you. Even from the outside of the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, you can sense the artistic grandness that is on display within. This is a real jewel and an architectural world reference. During the Second World War, it was buried for the sake of protection and the art works were spread out to avoid being plundered.

Here you will find many prehistoric objects including Neolithic engraved vessels and enigmatic sculptures. Or see the famous Mask of Agamemnon with your own eyes. This place is a vast treasure that you might want to visit multiple times to understand Greek history better and deeper.

What has yet to be said about Athens? This is the birthplace of civilization, the political, financial, and cultural centre of Greece. The city holds innumerable stories spread over its more than 3,000 years of history. It is even said that, without this city, Democracy would not exist. Its importance in history is simply magnificent. Even if the only thing you would visit would be the spectacular Acropolis, with legendary buildings like the Parthenon, it would still be worthwhile. But it is not only the city’s historic legacy that is a tourist attraction. In Athens, a simple stroll along its streets can be a great surprise. Besides the little “treasures” discovered in the city’s old neighbourhoods and their secret gardens, Athens on its own is a world map for the palate. Its gastronomy story is infinite, and visitors never fail to savour Mediterranean products such as the refreshing “tzatziki” and the succulent “moussaka”. Embraced by the Parnitha and Pendelikon mountains, with beaches close-by and an energetic nightlife, this city is the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday.

The Monastiraki neighbourhood is where one can feel the pulse of the city in its full splendour. This area, together with Plaka, is the most animated and unique of the city. If you prefer the classic markets instead of the shopping malls, here you will find one of the largest in Greece. Tradition and energy are spread across the little streets of Monastiraki. Pandrossou and Adrianou are the main streets with endless amounts of cafés and shops that live together in symbiosis: from fruit stands to fashion stores, from jewellery to antiques.

An advice: don’t hesitate to haggle! On Sundays, the Athenians buy and sell all kinds of objects. You can find handmade shoes and local garments. Once you are done shopping, take a break in one of the lovely terraces and have a delicious “gyros”.

The Mount Licabettus, meaning the Wolf Mountain, is one of the lungs of the city. At around 300 meters high, it is Athens’ highest mount. You can either climb it on foot or you have the nice option of the cable car that departs from Ploutarchou street and takes you to the top. The views, as you might imagine, are lovely: the sea on one side, and the majestic Acropolis on the other. You can even grasp views of the Saronic Gulf.

On the top, you will find the small chapel of Agios Georgios, with its interior lightened by an abundance of candles left here by the Athenians together with their wishes and prayers. You’ll want to close your eyes and feel for a second the peace and calmness of this place. At dusk, you will immerse yourself to the glowing lights of the city underneath, putting on a magical show just for you.