If you fancy a break from the busy tourist trail around Athens in the summer, but want to continue the sightseeing take a 20-40 minute ferry trip to the island of Aegina. Here you can visit the beautiful Temple of Afaia – one of the oldest surviving and well-preserved ancient temples in Greece.

As it is tucked away on a pine-clad hill, the temple attracts only a few travellers so it’s definitely a place to escape the crowds. I went at the height of season last summer and was joined by just two or three others.

Also once you've visited the temple, you can relax on some of the lovely beaches (either in Aghios Marina, or the ones within walking distance of Aegina Town) and still make it back to Athens before evening.

Take a Flying Dolphin ferry to Aegina from Piraeus port (costs around 10-15 euros). This will take you to Aegina Town - here you can jump on the Aghios Marina bus which will drop you right outside the temple

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The Byzantine museum has been recently renovated and houses the best collection of Byzantine art in Greece. Although the Byzantine period stretched for over a 1,000 years and influenced modern Greece as much as ancient history, it is often overlooked by visitors. Well worth a visit – and less busy than the archaeological museum.

22 Vasilissis Sofias Ave, next to the Athens Hilton

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Go to Texas, the most famous rock club in Athens. Plays classic rock and metal every night until morning. Often frequented by bands such as Motorhead after they've played in the city. If you like Texas you can also try nearby Revenge of Rock.

Texas is on Ippokratous Street in the bohemian area of Exarhia. Revenge of Rock is on Leofourous Alexandras, also in Exarhia. Exarhia is central Athens – a 10 minute walk from Ommonia square or take a cab (most taxi drivers will know these clubs)

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