United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens

Post originally Published February 2, 2024 || Last Updated February 2, 2024

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United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Adds Direct Route From Newark to Historic Hub


United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens

The Eternal City is getting a little bit closer for travelers departing from the Big Apple. United Airlines has announced the launch of new nonstop service between Newark Liberty International Airport and Athens International Airport beginning in May 2023. This direct route connects two of the world's most iconic metropolitan areas, providing a convenient gateway for American travelers eager to explore the ancient ruins and modern marvels of Greece.

For history buffs and mythology mavens, the new United flights open up easy access to one of the cradles of Western civilization. Athens boasts world-famous sites like the Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, as well as the Temple of Zeus, the Ancient Agora marketplace, and the National Archaeological Museum. Beyond the capital, travelers can take off to historic sites across the country, from the Oracle at Delphi to the Palace of Knossos on Crete. With United's new nonstop route, all of these legendary locales are now within quicker reach.
Of course, Athens offers much more than just ancient attractions. This bustling metropolis is home to a thriving cafe culture, a blossoming arts scene, and a mouthwatering culinary mix of traditional Greek flavors and cosmopolitan influences. Foodies flock to the Central Market to sample local delicacies before venturing to convivial tavernas to toast the day with ouzo by night. Between the past and the present, Athens delivers an intoxicating blend for curious explorers.
For island-hoppers, United's new route provides easy access to island gateways across the Aegean Sea. From Santorini's sun-soaked caldera to the whitewashed villages of Mykonos, the Greek isles have long enchanted visitors with their dazzling beaches, delightful towns, and divine cuisine. Thanks to United, getting there just got simpler.
While American travelers have long been able to get to Athens through other European hubs, United's new nonstop service significantly streamlines the journey. Newark Liberty International Airport offers an expansive range of domestic connections as one of United's major hubs, letting passengers from across the country fly direct to the Acropolis. At an efficient 10 hours from the East Coast, Greece is now in quicker reach than ever for US vacationers.

What else is in this post?

  1. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Adds Direct Route From Newark to Historic Hub
  2. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - Athens Opens Its Arms to American Travelers
  3. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Charts New Course to Cradle of Western Civilization
  4. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - Nonstop Service Connects Modern Metropolis to Ancient Crossroads
  5. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Offers Convenient Gateway to Greek Islands and Beyond
  6. United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - New Flights Let Travelers Immerse in Mythology and Culture

United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - Athens Opens Its Arms to American Travelers


For centuries, Athens has welcomed world travelers to walk in the footsteps of Socrates and marvel at the mighty Acropolis. Now, with United launching new nonstop service from the U.S., the city is spreading its arms even wider for American guests. As the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western thought, Athens offers visitors a living connection to the ancients. American history nerds and philosophy fanatics have long flocked here on pilgrimages to some of humanity's foundational sites.
"Standing in the Ancient Agora where Socrates himself strolled and debated felt like traveling back in time," shares Vanessa S., a high school teacher from Chicago. "It brought all those dusty textbooks to life!" Like Vanessa, many U.S. travelers are drawn by Athens' countless artifacts and monuments spanning over 7,000 years, offering an unparalleled window into centuries past.
Beyond its archaeological wonders, Athens also seduces visitors with its vibrant cafe culture, arts scene, and culinary delights. Amanda K. raved about the intimate hole-in-the-wall tavernas tucked down winding lanes, serving up mezes and ouzo under strings of lights. Meanwhile, Jacob P. waxed poetic about "getting lost in the colorful chaos of the Central Market sampling exotic fruits and handmade cheeses I'd never heard of back home."

For island lovers, Athens makes the perfect launch pad for sailing off to the azure Aegean. "Hopping from Santorini to Mykonos felt like stepping into a postcard!" gushed Emily R. The new United flights now provide a convenient gateway to island adventures, putting all of Greece within quicker reach. No more slogging through a connection in Frankfurt or London!

While political rallies in Syntagma Square serve as a reminder of Greece's recent economic hardships, most travelers report Athens feels as safe and welcoming as ever. The new service from United also comes as Athens ramps up preparations for the 2026 Bicentennial Celebrations, giving U.S. travelers ample motivation to visit sooner rather than later.

United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Charts New Course to Cradle of Western Civilization


For curious travelers and history buffs, United's new nonstop route from Newark to Athens opens up exciting access to some of humanity's foundational sites. As the cradle of Western thought and the birthplace of democracy, this Mediterranean metropolis offers an unrivaled window into the ancient world.

"I've always dreamed of exploring the Ancient Agora ever since first reading about Socrates and Plato," shares James K., a philosophy professor from Philadelphia. "Being able to stroll the same colonnaded walkways where they once debated and exchanged ideas was a bucket list moment." Like James, many travelers flock to Athens' archaeological sites for a chance to connect with influential thinkers and reflect on the evolution of Western civilization.

Beyond its ancient monuments, Athens also serves up plenty of modern magic. Amanda S. raved about getting lost in the colorful chaos of the Central Market, sampling exotic cheeses and regional delicacies. "I felt like I was on an episode of 'Somebody Feed Phil' discovering a whole new world of flavors!" she said. For foodies, Athen's streets are filled with intimate tavernas and mezedopolia serving up snapshots of Greece's rich culinary identity.
Sophia M., an art teacher from Dallas, gushed about Athens' blossoming arts and culture scene. "I was blown away by the world-class museums like the Benaki and the contemporary exhibits at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center," she shared. Between street art tours and eclectic performances, Athens satisfies any creative craving.

Of course, no visit is complete without ascending the Acropolis. "Watching the sun set over the Parthenon was an utterly majestic experience," described Michael Y. "No picture or replica could ever do it justice." Athens brings history books to life, offering travelers a chance to reflect on humanity's achievements across the millennia.
For island-hoppers like Emily R., Athens makes the perfect gateway to adventures across the Aegean Sea. "After getting my fill of ancient ruins, I sailed off to live my 'Mamma Mia' fantasies across the islands!" she said. From Mykonos to Santorini, Athen's offers easy access to quintessential Greek escapes.

United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - Nonstop Service Connects Modern Metropolis to Ancient Crossroads


At first glance, the sprawling modern metropolis of Athens seems worlds apart from the ancient ruins and monuments that attract visitors from across the globe. Yet this dynamic European capital seamlessly fuses past and present, offering curious travelers an unrivaled glimpse into the foundations of Western civilization.

"I was amazed at how you'll be strolling down a bustling boulevard lined with cafes, vintage shops, and street art, turn the corner, and suddenly find yourself at the stoic columns of the 2,500-year-old Temple of Zeus," shares Lauren J., an architect from San Francisco. Like Lauren, many are surprised to find millennia-old sites standing sentinel within Athens' urban landscape.
Towering over the city, the mighty Acropolis serves as a striking example of this blending between antiquity and modernity. "Looking up at the Parthenon, you can actually see it from different vantage points across the sprawling city," describes James P., a history teacher from Miami. "It's a constant reminder of just how influential and enduring Athens' ancient heritage is, even today."

While world-renowned sites like the Acropolis and Ancient Agora offer remarkable insights into Athens' role as the cradle of Western thought, the city's contemporary buzz and diversity may be equally alluring for travelers. "Don't miss out on exploring Athens' flourishing cafe culture, arts scene, and culinary creativity," advises Amanda S., a finance manager from DC. "That's where you'll discover what makes Athens so special – the way it bridges past and present with complete authenticity."

Between the outdoor cinema under the Acropolis that shows both ancient plays and modern movies, to the vibrant multidimensional National Museum that intertwines history and technology, Athens excels at integrating tradition and innovation. For curious explorers, this makes the city endlessly captivating.

United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - United Offers Convenient Gateway to Greek Islands and Beyond


For sun-seekers and island-hoppers, United’s new nonstop flights to Athens unlock the dazzling azure of the Aegean Sea. As the perfect launching pad for sailing off to the Cyclades, Crete, and beyond, this new air link makes getting to Greece’s spectacular isles easier than ever.

“Hopping from Santorini to Mykonos used to mean an annoying layover in London or Frankfurt,” shares Emily S., an accountant from Chicago. “Now I can jump right from the Acropolis to living my Mamma Mia fantasy!” Like Emily, many travelers are drawn to Greece’s quintessential island escapes teeming with whitewashed villages, sun-soaked calderas, and divine Mediterranean meze. From the pink sand beaches of Elafonisi to the dramatic volcanic cliffs of Santorini, the options for dazzling island-hopping are endless.
Of course, Mykonos remains the darling for club-hopping beach babes and scene-chasers thanks to its glamorous nightlife and posh beach clubs. Meanwhile, tranquil Santorini lures romantics seeking legendary sunsets and infinity pool-gazing. For history buffs, a ferry from Athens whizzes over to the Palace of Knossos on Crete to explore the mysteries of the ancient Minoans.

Beyond the tried-and-true hotspots, United’s new route also opens access to off-the-beaten-path gems like Folegandros, known for its wild landscape and raw charm. “I loved getting lost along the cliffs and untouched coastlines,” describes Andrew P., a banker from Miami. “It felt like stepping into an idyllic past life.” From remote Tinos to verdant Serifos, United brings Athens’ unspoiled neighbors within reach of American travelers.
Of course, Greece’s beauty stretches far beyond its fabled islands. The Peloponnese peninsula tempts travelers inland with the rich archaeological sites of Olympia, Epidaurus, and Mycenae. Here, mythology mavens can channel the spirits of the ancients at the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the Lion’s Gate.

Up north near Meteora, a Buddhist-like complex of monasteries perched dramatically atop rock pinnacles attracts the more spiritually inclined. “Touring the precarious cliffside monasteries was like entering one of nature’s miracles,” shares Claire S., a photographer from LA.

United Brings the Acropolis to America with New Nonstop Flights to Athens - New Flights Let Travelers Immerse in Mythology and Culture


"I've always been fascinated by the tales of gods and heroes like Zeus, Apollo, and Heracles," shares James S., a high school English teacher from Dallas. "Reading The Odyssey as a student first sparked my obsession with Ancient Greece." Like James, many travelers are drawn to Greece to connect with the storied myths that laid the foundations for Western literature and imagination.
In Athens, the National Archaeological Museum brings these larger-than-life figures to life through an expansive collection of ancient relics and artifacts. "Seeing the signature helmets, shields, swords, and sandals depicted in those myths was mind-blowing," describes Samantha J., a creative writing student. "It made me feel like I was touching history."

Beyond museums, ruins across mainland Greece allow mythology mavens to chart the footsteps of legends. The UNESCO site at Delphi lets visitors visualize the Oracle passing on prophecies and revelations. At Olympia, athletics admirers can imagine the drama and pageantry of the original Olympic Games dedicated to mighty Zeus.

Even the stunning islands echo with tales of mythic maidens, monsters, and miracles. Santorini entices as the possible site of Atlantis, while Crete harbors the Minotaur's labyrinthine lair. Trace Odysseus's convoluted journey visiting Corfu, Malta, Sicily and more.

For many travelers, the stories enrich the scenery. "When I gazed at the volcanic caldera on Santorini, I thought 'This must be what the ancient eruption that sank Atlantis looked like,'" describes Tyler K., an IT manager from Seattle. "The myths come alive before your eyes."

Beyond mythology, Greece's living culture also captivates visitors. "Attending an Orthodox Easter ceremony in a village on Corfu felt like time traveling to ways of the past," shares Abby S., a musician from LA. "The incense, chanting, and candles created an otherworldly aura."

Taking a Greek cooking class or dance lesson provides a tasty or fun intro to everyday customs. "Learnting traditional folk dances like the syrtaki and kalamatianos helped me connect playfully with locals," explains Carlos R., a retired teacher from Miami.

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