· It's perfectly feasible to get to Athens by ferry from Italy. You can either leave from Venice to Patras (Greece) or Ancona to Patras. They both take about the same time, that is about 15-17 hours overnight. From Patras it's about three or four hours by bus or train into Athens. The cheapest passenger fare, is around €160 return. For more information and timetables, go to 1stforferries.co.uk.
Iain Fulton

· There are daily ferries which cross between Brindisi and Patras and a smelly train from Patras to Athens. I would advise to spend as little time in Patras as possible. It is less than pleasant and somewhat lacking in facilities. The ferry however is perfectly comfortable.

An alternative which may offer a more relaxed style and higher standard of holiday would be to book a cheap last-minute package deal. Perhaps spend a few days on an island then catch a ferry to Athens from there. Return to the island after watching the games and relax for a few more days before returning home. The ferries are, on the whole, excellent, cheap, frequent and reliable. Don't spend too much time in Athens and do book accommodation in advance.
Douglas Bell