Company Retreats in Athens, Greece
Cost: $-$$
Time zone: GMT+02:00
Climate: Mediterranean
Who can travel visa-free: check nationality here
Airports: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos ATH
Wait time to obtain a visa: 15-30 days
Athens is a dynamic city that blends history, culture, and modernity in a unique way. As the birthplace of democracy and ancient Greek civilization, it's a place of rich cultural heritage that inspires creativity on every step. The city features a thriving start-up scene and growing tech industry, making it an ideal destination for forward-thinking companies.
A variety of top-tier conference venues, hotels, and co-working spaces suitable for businesses of all sizes are available to meet any need. Athens has both luxury hotels with advanced meeting facilities and more casual settings like boutique hotels and villas. With its sunny climate, beautiful scenery, and numerous activities, Athens is ideal for productive and memorable company retreats.
The Institute of Free Technology's high ROI retreats lie in putting people first in Athens, Greece
Our team managed to nail every challenge making this event a blast for everyone, which is why Terry says: “It truly felt like OnsiteHub worked magic behind the scenes. Their ability to handle any situation that arose with grace and efficiency was nothing short of remarkable”.
Terry Mitchell Tobin
Institute of Free Technology
How to Get There
Traveling to Athens from various parts of the world is straightforward. The city is well-equipped for international teams, featuring well-connected airports, efficient public transportation, and private travel options.
For most global teams, the easiest route is to fly into Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), followed by convenient transport to your retreat destination. The region is well-prepared for international visitors, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
For larger groups or those seeking added convenience, hiring a private coach is an excellent option. Numerous local companies offer tailored services for corporate groups, providing comfortable, air-conditioned buses for airport transfers, local tours, and transport between retreat activities.
Why Choose Athens for Your Team Retreat
Choosing Athens for your team retreat will bring a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure on the table, that can make your team bond and collaborate better. The city is rich with ancient landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, providing a fascinating setting for team-building activities. You can engage in exciting challenges such as scavenger hunts through historical sites or participate in Greek cooking classes to improve teamwork and communication. Additionally, Athens’ vibrant culinary scene and beautiful nearby islands offer ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination to rejuvenate and inspire your team.
MEMORABLE retreats.
EMPOWERED teams.
EMPOWERED teams.
We handle the hard work. Easily unite your team and enjoy a company retreat experience in Europe.
Get a quote
Accommodation for Teams
Athens offers a variety of accommodation options for teams, depending on different preferences and budgets. For those seeking luxury, there are several high-end hotels located in central areas, providing top-notch amenities such as conference rooms, swimming pools, and rooftop restaurants with stunning city views. These hotels are often situated near major attractions and transportation hubs, making them convenient for team activities and meetings.
For teams looking for a balance between comfort and affordability, mid-range hotels are a great choice. These establishments typically offer modern amenities like free WiFi, air conditioning, and on-site dining options. They are often located in vibrant neighborhoods close to historic sites and cultural landmarks, allowing teams to explore the city easily while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Budget-conscious teams can find numerous affordable hotels and hostels in lively areas known for their bustling atmosphere and variety of dining and entertainment options. These accommodations provide basic amenities and easy access to public transportation, making it simple for teams to navigate the city. Whether your team prefers luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodations – Athens has something to offer for every need.
Fun and Leisure Activities
Athens is a rich tapestry interwoven of fun and leisurem, perfect for any team retreat. One of the highlights is exploring the city’s ancient history through guided tours of iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon. These tours provide fascinating insights into Greece’s storied past, as well as stunning views of the city. For a more interactive experience, teams can participate in a treasure hunt around the historical sites, combining sightseeing with team-building challenges.
For those looking to indulge in local culture, the city has a vibrant culinary scene. Teams can take part in Greek cooking classes where they learn to prepare traditional dishes like moussaka and baklava. These classes are a great way to bond over food and enjoy the fruits of their labor together. Additionally, wine tasting tours in the nearby Attica region allow teams to sample some of Greece’s finest wines while enjoying the picturesque countryside.
Athens also appeals to adventure enthusiasts with options like hiking in the nearby Mount Parnitha or embarking on sailing trips to the Saronic Islands. These outdoor excursions provide a refreshing break from the city and an opportunity for people to connect in a natural setting. Whether it’s navigating the trails or the waters, these activities enhance teamwork and create lasting memories.
Culture
As a city filled with history and culture, Athens blends ancient traditions with modern vibrancy. Its cultural heritage is most prominently showcased through the historical landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which stand as testaments to its glorious past. These ancient sites are not just tourist attractions but also symbols of the city’s enduring legacy in philosophy, democracy, and the arts. The influence of ancient Athens is still evident in its modern-day cultural practices and public life.
The cultural scene in Athens is incredibly diverse, reflecting its rich history and contemporary influences. The city is known for its lively festivals, such as the Athens Epidaurus Festival, which features a variety of performances ranging from classical theater to contemporary dance and music. The neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki are particularly vibrant, offering a mix of traditional Greek tavernas, modern cafes, and bustling markets. These areas are perfect for experiencing the local way of life, with their narrow streets and historic buildings providing a charming backdrop.
Athenians take great pride in their culinary traditions, which are an integral part of their cultural identity. The city’s food culture is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Traditional dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava are staples, often enjoyed in the company of friends and family. Additionally, Athens has a thriving contemporary art scene, with numerous galleries and cultural centers showcasing the work of both local and international artists. This blend of ancient and modern makes Athens a unique cultural hub that continues to inspire and captivate visitors from all around the world.
Visa Requirements for Greece
When planning a company retreat to Athens, it’s important to understand visa requirements for your team. Greece is part of the Schengen area, so some travelers will need a tourist visa, but the process is straightforward.
Travelers who will need a visa to enter Greece have to submit the Schengen visa application through the official procedure.
Always check the official website for current information about visas.
Local Expert: Monica
Hi! My name is Monica and I am your local expert in Greece! I am an architect / art historian and the Dean of Global and Student Engagement at Hellenic American University. I grew up in the center of Athens, but I also spent 3 years in Manchester, UK. I have ten years of experience in leading groups and my job is to create unforgettable trips to Greece, including guided tours, business, visits, cultural and fun activities. My passion is traveling and experiencing new cultures. Ask me anything about art and archaeology, food and wine, nightlife, trips to the countryside, and secret places! Join us for a memorable trip and fall in love with Athens and Greece!
.avif)
Unforgettable getaways. Stronger connections.
Leverage the power of our local experts for a retreat to remember in Europe.
Get a quote
Fun Facts you didn’t know about Athens
Athens derives its name from a goddess
Greek mythology, beyond its rich tapestry of captivating tales, has bestowed upon us numerous names that have seamlessly integrated into our modern lexicon, such as Athena – the goddess after whom the city is named. According to legend, Athena and Poseidon, the sea god, rivaled for the honor of becoming the city’s patron. Athena’s gift of an olive tree triumphed over Poseidon’s offering, and thus, the city was named in her honor, a name that has endured through the ages.
Athens is Europe’s oldest capital city
In fact, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the entire world, with a history that stretches back over 3,400 years. While cities like Rome, Madrid, and Lisbon are undoubtedly ancient and rich in history, they are still relatively young when compared to the Grecian capital. Athens has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of democracy, and the flourishing of arts and philosophy. Its enduring legacy and continuous habitation make it a true testament to the resilience and cultural significance of human civilization. So, while these other European capitals have their own unique and storied pasts, they are mere youngsters in the shadow of Athens’ ancient grandeur.
More theaters than any other city in the world
Around the same time democracy was emerging, the Athenians were perfecting another major contribution to global culture – the theater. As pioneers of tragedy and comedy, the ancient Athenians showcased their talents at the Ancient Theater of Dionysus on the slopes of the Acropolis.
One of the great aspects of Athens today is that you can still watch performances there, along with nearly 150 other venues throughout the city. This exceeds the number of theaters in both New York’s Broadway and London’s West End combined.
Once it wasn’t the capital of Greece
While it might be surprising, one of the most intriguing facts about Athens is that it wasn’t the first capital of modern Greece. That honor belongs to Nafplion, a city in the northeastern Peloponnese.
During and after the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire (around 1821 to 1829), Nafplion served as the capital. At that time, Athens had a population of only four to five thousand.
Eventually, due to its historical significance and cultural representation – not to mention its captivating ancient monuments – the capital was moved to Athens in 1834, where it remains to this day.
Open Air Cinemas since 1904
The earliest locations in Athens to showcase purely cinematic spectacles were the city’s squares. In 1904, the first organized film screenings took place in the cafes of Syntagma Square and Zappeion, which were popular gathering spots for the capital’s residents. Today, open-air cinemas remain a hallmark of the Athenian summer.
The Ancient Olympic Games were not held in Athens
Although Athens is renowned as the center of Greek culture, it was not the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. These games were held in Olympia, which is where they got their name.
However, the modern Olympic Games were revived in Athens in 1896. During this revival, 14 countries took part. Since then, participation has expanded to include hundreds of countries, transforming the Olympics into a global sporting event.
Work smarter, not harder.
We handle the stress of travel and planning logistics for you. If we believe a destination isn’t the best fit for your requirements, we’ll let you know. Your goals are our top priority.
Get a quote
Activities in Athens
Athens offers a wide variety of activities that create unforgettable experiences and enhance your team's overall satisfaction.
Bike Tour
Bike tours offer a unique and engaging way to explore the city through various bike routes. These tours are designed to provide an unforgettable sightseeing experience, allowing participants to discover iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and secret spots in Athens. Our tours cater to different interests, including city highlights, coastal routes, and even food tours, all led by passionate and knowledgeable local guides.
The tours range from standard city bike tours to specialized electric bike tours, sunset rides, and team-building experiences. Each tour is crafted to offer a high-quality local experience, ensuring safety and fun for all participants, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals.
Bike Tour
Greek Cuisine Tour
The Athens food tour offers an engaging experience, ideal for team-building, where participants can bond while exploring the rich culinary culture of Greece. As they walk through the city's charming neighborhoods, the team will taste a variety of local delicacies, from traditional street food to authentic Greek desserts. The tour blends history, food, and culture, making it an immersive adventure that strengthens connection among teams. With expert guides leading the way, teams not only enjoy tasty dishes but also learn the stories behind the foods and the history of the area.
This 3.5-hour Athens food tour offers a unique way for teams to bond while discovering hidden culinary gems in non-tourist areas. Participants explore vibrant local markets, sampling a variety of authentic Greek foods such as cheeses, meats, olives, honey, and spices. Alongside tasting fresh produce, they enjoy traditional meals with local barrel wine, ouzo, and raki in cozy tavernas.
With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, the tour accommodates diverse preferences and provides an enriching cultural experience, enhancing team spirit as members savor Athens' food and atmosphere together.
Greek Cuisine Tour
The Olympian Challenge
The Olympian Challenge offers a 3.5-hour experience where teams compete in Olympic-inspired events at historic venues in Athens. Participants start at the Zappeion, learning about the origins and evolution of the ancient and modern Olympic Games, including fun facts and trivia. The activities include classic sports like long jump, javelin, and shot put, with guidance from professional trainers.
The event culminates in friendly competitions at the Panathenaic Stadium, featuring a tug-of-war and relay race. This activity blends history, sports, and team-building in a fun, memorable environment.
The Olympian Challenge
The Acropolis walking tour
The Acropolis skip-the-line walking tour offers a fantastic opportunity for teams to bond while discovering one of Greece's most iconic landmarks. The guided tour ensures swift entry, allowing the group to focus on exploring the Acropolis and learning about its historical significance in an engaging, interactive way. Participants will enjoy shared experiences as they navigate through ancient ruins and hear stories about the site's impact on Western civilization, sparking conversations and enhancing camaraderie.
You will walk through historic landmarks like the Parthenon, Propylaea, and the Erechtheion. The scenic views and historical insights provide a unique backdrop for people to connect outside of their usual work environment, creating lasting memories and promoting collaboration in a relaxed, cultural setting.
The Acropolis walking tour
Indianapolis Jones Treasure Hunt
If you're captivated by Indianapolis Jones and his thrilling quests, this treasure hunt is designed to fuel that same sense of adventure. A mysterious statuette, lost to time, may be hidden nearby, waiting for you to uncover it. To succeed, you'll need to gather clues, piece together information, and solve riddles. But more than just a puzzle-solving challenge, this experience offers excitement and fun at every turn. Enjoy the adventure, embrace the challenges, and, who knows, you might just earn a reward for your efforts!
Indianapolis Jones Treasure Hunt
Street Art Tour with Graffiti
This 3-hour experience combines a 1.5-hour street art tour through Athens’ vibrant alleys, where participants explore the city's rich graffiti scene guided by experts, with a 1.5-hour graffiti workshop. During the workshop, participants can unleash their creativity, designing their own street art motif and personalizing a tote bag as a keepsake. This activity offers a perfect mix of cultural discovery and hands-on artistic expression, making it ideal for team bonding while exploring the dynamic art and stories behind Athens' murals.
Street Art Tour with Graffiti
Mythology Tour
The Mythology Highlights Tour in Athens offers an immersive experience into ancient Greek mythology by exploring key landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora. Participants will uncover fascinating stories about Greek gods and heroes, understand the historical events behind these myths, and gain insights into ancient Greek society. The tour also provides spectacular views and reveals hidden ancient corners of the city, making it a comprehensive journey through Athens’ mythological and historical heritage.
Mythology Tour
Mystery Game
This interactive tour in Athens offers participants a chance to engage in a thrilling mystery game set in the heart of the city. Teams work together to solve puzzles and uncover clues, all while exploring significant historical and cultural landmarks. The experience is designed to be both educational and entertaining, providing a unique way to learn about Athens’ rich heritage.
Participants will navigate through various neighborhoods, each with its own set of challenges and secrets to uncover. The tour encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and a sense of adventure, making it an ideal activity for groups looking to bond and have fun while discovering the hidden gems of Athens.
Mystery Game
Delphi Discovery
This day trip offers an immersive journey to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient oracle and stunning mountain scenery. Participants will explore significant landmarks such as the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, and the Tholos. The tour also includes a visit to the Delphi museum, where visitors can admire classical Greek masterpieces like the Charioteer of Delphi. Along the way, travelers will experience the charm of local villages, meet residents, and learn about traditional crafts and rural life.
The full-day excursion provides a blend of historical exploration and cultural experiences. Guests will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in a picturesque mountain village, offering a taste of local cuisine. The tour is designed to avoid typical tourist traps, providing a more authentic and personalized experience. With opportunities to discover both ancient and contemporary aspects of Greek culture, this trip promises a memorable and enriching adventure.
Delphi Discovery
Apollo the Lyrist
This activity offers a captivating journey through time, focusing on the ancient lyre, an instrument once played by Apollo. Participants will explore the origins of the lyre, from its mythical creation by Hermes to its influence on the theories of Pythagoras and Plato. The experience includes listening to the lyre’s enchanting melodies, performed by a professional lyrist, and singing the oldest surviving musical composition in the world.
The tour is designed to be both educational and immersive, providing insights into ancient Greek music, philosophy, and mythology. It highlights the cultural significance of the lyre and its impact on ancient Greek thought and art. This unique experience is ideal for those interested in exploring the intersection of music, history, and mythology in a hands-on and engaging way.
Apollo the Lyrist
Street Cuisine Quest
This street food tour in Athens offers a unique team-building experience for corporate groups. Participants embark on a treasure hunt across the city, discovering and tasting a variety of traditional Greek street foods such as souvlaki, savory pies, and sweet treats. The activity combines map-reading, quick snacking, and an adventurous spirit, making it an engaging way to explore Athens’ vibrant street food scene.
The tour is designed to be both fun and educational, providing insights into the history and preparation of Greek street snacks. Teams compete to find and enjoy the best food spots in downtown Athens, enhancing their teamwork. This activity is ideal for those looking to experience the local culture through its cuisine while fostering a sense of unity and excitement among participants.
Street Cuisine Quest
Create your own Comic
This team-building workshop offers a unique and engaging way for colleagues to collaborate through the creation of comics. Guided by professional comic artists and storytellers, participants will work together in a fun and imaginative environment to develop their own comic stories. The activity is designed to enhance teamwork and creativity, providing a refreshing break from the usual work routine.
The workshop lasts for two hours and can be scheduled upon request. It promises a memorable experience where teams can bond and unleash their inner superheroes. By the end of the session, participants will have a tangible comic creation to take away, symbolizing their collective effort and creativity.
Create your own Comic
Mycenae and Nafplio Visit
This tour offers a captivating journey through the ancient citadel of Mycenae and the charming seaside town of Nafplio. Participants will explore the archaeological site of Mycenae, home to the legendary Lion Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon, immersing themselves in the rich history and myths of this ancient civilization. The tour also includes a visit to Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, where visitors can admire its medieval fortifications, picturesque streets, and traditional crafts.
The full-day excursion provides a blend of historical exploration and cultural experiences. Guests will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in Nafplio, offering a taste of local cuisine. The tour is designed to provide an authentic and personalized experience, avoiding typical tourist traps. With opportunities to discover both ancient and contemporary aspects of Greek culture, this trip promises a memorable and enriching adventure.
Mycenae and Nafplio Visit
Weather
.jpeg)
Unforgettable retreats. Stronger teams.
Effortlessly unite your team and enjoy a memorable retreat in Europe.
Get a quote