Thank you for all of the advice here. It turns out that we will have a few days on Crete and then need to spend New Year's Eve in Athens. Since I've got an early flight we are staying at the Sofitel across from the airport however we would like to visit the city for the evening. I am wondering about what may be going on in Athens on new year's eve.

* Is there any kind of public celebration that would make sense for us to attend ? I had read that there is an event at the Parthenon but that there would not be fireworks this year. There are 4 of us - 3 adults and a 16yr old. Am I going to need to be particularly worried about pickpockets and other thieves ? [I apologize if this offends anyone - I grew up in New York City in the 70's and so I try to be always aware of these things]

* We plan to take the metro into the city. However I am a little concerned about finding a taxi after midnight to take us back to the Sofitel airport hotel. Would it be difficult to find a taxi ? Should I book a car service ? I thought about going to a hotel nearby but other suggestions are appreciated.

* Anything else that would be good to know about New Year's in Athens.

Thank you