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Athens, the capital of Greece, is not only a fantastic European capital to visit, with unique monuments, archaeological sites, and museums, but is also a great place to live for longer periods as well. Digital nomads, remote workers, and full-time travelers that visit Athens often decide to stay longer than initially intended.

How To Move Around In Athens

One of the many advantages about living in Athens is the metro railway that connects different neighborhoods with each other, making it effortless and fast to reach different corners of the city in no time. You can take the metro system to the town center upon your arrival at the international airport Eleftherios Venizelos. It’s also easy to use the metro to reach the Port of Piraeus and board a ferry to one of the famous Greek islands. In addition, the city has an extensive bus network and plenty of taxis, both convenient and safe to travel among Athens’ neighborhoods. It’s easy to reach the southern suburbs as well, located by the sea and explore the Athenian Riviera, which is also connected to other seaside areas outside the capital by central motorways.

Most Picturesque Neighborhood In Athens to visit

While staying you may want to visit some of the nearby picturesque neighborhoods such as Plaka, Monastiraki, Psirri, Syntagma, Koukaki, Kolonaki and Thissio.

Visiting Plaka

A favorite area among tourists and locals alike is Plaka—the old district area of Athens. Plaka is a maze of picturesque alleys and narrow streets that host a variety of shops and markets. The beautiful cafes and tavernas are a must. Be sure to dine al fresco both in summer and in the colder months. Plaka is only a few steps away, close to archaeological sites such as Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and several important museums. You can reach Plaka on foot from other central areas, including Monastiraki and Syntagma. Plaka can also be very busy due to its proximity to the Acropolis, so make sure to visit Plaka as early as you can so you can enjoy it freely. In Plaka, most houses have a traditional Neoclassical façade, making it one of the most beautiful places for street photography, if you’re a fan!

Just down the road from the center of Plaka, you can also spend some time in Anafiotika. It is a place where many immigrants from the Cycladic Island of Anafi settled many years ago when moving to Athens to build the palace. Although it is not easy to find a place to stay in the area, it’s definitely a fantastic place to visit when you’re staying in a hotel in Athens Greece.

Monastiraki neighborhood

Monastiraki is located around a central square that’s the beating heart of the city, the Monastiraki Square. The picturesque area is a great place to hang out and catch up with friends since it is near and in a walking distance from the beautiful Ancient Agora of Athens and Hadrian’s Library. 

You can go shopping for souvenirs and memorabilia in the beautiful flea markets and of course have a bite in the tavernas. If you want to taste traditional meat platters, such as gyros and souvlaki, then you can choose any of the gyro joints in the alleys around Monastiraki and enjoy the best of Greece’s street food. Monastiraki is also a place where people choose to go shopping; walk from Monastiraki to Syntagma Square along Ermou Street and discover an outstanding shopping opportunity as several top brand shops are located in the area.

One of the most hip neighborhoods of Athens: Psirri

Psirri is close to Monastiraki and Plaka, but it still preserves a unique, boho atmosphere that makes it an ideal area for younger crowds. Nights come alive with colors, music, sounds and food every evening. In Psirri, you’ll be able to taste and experience the best of Athens’ nightlife, visiting the different bars, tavernas, and pubs that remain open until late at night, serving great local food and offering all the music genres you can possibly imagine. Psirri is an ideal area for photographers who love to capture that bizarre and creative street art. When in Psirri, do not miss a chance to look around; the chances are that street art will surprise you!

This is arguably the best area to stay in, for a vibrant combination of street life, nightlife and Greek cuisine.

Syntagma Neighborhood

Athens’ most central and important square is Syntagma, the place where you’ll find the Greek parliament. Tourists and locals gather every morning to witness the change of the guard of the Evzones, the legendary Greek military elite. Although the place is relatively central and well connected, it’s also where locals gather to protest and demonstrate, something you should keep in mind when visiting the area.

The locals also meet in Syntagma square, which is an important transport hub. Several bus lines have their stop there for those trying to reach the port, the airport, and more. Syntagma is easy to reach on foot from other Athenian neighborhoods, including Monastiraki, Plaka, and Kolonaki, and some of the most exclusive luxury hotels athens greece city center are located there.

The elegant neighborhood of Athens

Located at the base of the stunning Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki is a glamorous area with stylish buildings and some of the most exclusive shops hosting both international and local luxurious brands. Nightlife is tranquil and relaxed, but it’s also exclusive. In fact, in Kolonaki, you have the option to experience some of the city’s most sophisticated restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for a neighborhood with an elegant atmosphere, surrounded by gorgeous cafeterias, restaurants, Kolonaki is the place to stay in Athens for you. The most convenient metro stations to get to Kolonaki are Syntagma and Evangelismos.

Koukaki Neighborhood

Koukaki is a residential area where you can enjoy the most authentic atmosphere of Athens. From Koukaki is easy to visit the Acropolis Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and the fascinating Jewelry Museum of Athens. The closest metro stations to Koukaki area are Acropolis and Syngrou Fix.

The stunning Thisseio Neighborhood

If you’re a young traveler, a stay in Thisseio will guarantee you tons of fun and exciting things to do. The neighborhood features dozens of cafés, cocktail bars, restaurants, and a well-known open-air cinema, Cinema Thisseio while being conveniently located nearby. Interesting places within walking distance include Filopappou Hill, Kerameikos and the Temple of Hephaestus inside the Ancient Agora, while getting there by metro the closest stations are Thisseio and Monastiraki.

When is the best time to visit Athens

Athens is known for its year-round mild weather. Summer is the high season, when the city’s attractions are packed with visitors, while the peaceful winters are often dry. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and thinner crowds, making it a perfect time of the year to visit Athens.

Summer (June through August)

Major attractions in Athens, like the Acropolis Museum, the Parthenon, and the National Archaeological Museum, are very busy during this time. Try to make your arrangements well in advance, including your stay, ferries rides and plane tickets. Despite the crowds, the high season is a good time to take advantage of long summer days and full-time opening hours of the museums, restaurants and bars.

Fall (September through November)

If you love sunny weather but don’t care for crowds, fall can be a great time for sightseeing in Athens. While the weather generally remains fairly warm until November, the attractions get slightly less busy after the August rush. The ongoing pleasant weather also makes early fall a great time for day trips. The Saronic Islands (Aegina, Hydra, Poros, and Spetses, as well as the less popular Salamis) can easily be reached via a quick ferry ride. If you’d prefer to stay on the mainland, there are many fascinating nearby towns and archaeological sites to visit: Cape Sounion, Eleusis, and Marathon are all close to Athens, while Delphi, Corinth, and Thebes are a 1-2 hour drive away.

Winter (December through February)

The winter is the off-season in Athens. Rain showers fall during this time, and it has even been known to snow. However, the winter is usually interrupted by plenty of “halcyon days” when temperatures are surprisingly warm and summer-like. Though some attractions have shorter hours during the winter, it’s still possible to get great deals on booking tickets. For anyone who would love to investigate the Acropolis without the flooding crowds, winter is a good time to plan a visit. Despite the cold, outdoor life continues throughout the year, with many cafés offering heat lamps so customers can enjoy their coffee or lunch outside, in the crisp joyful winter weather.

Spring (March through May)

The springtime in Greece is marked by the blossoming of flowers and temperatures warm enough for sightseeing and outdoors activities, especially before the crowds of summer arrive. It also provides a unique opportunity to participate in Greek Easter traditions. Orthodox Easter takes place on different dates than the Western Christian/Catholic Easter, so check in advance to confirm the exact timing. During Easter, you can go to Byzantine churches for services and taste traditional sweets at the city’s bakeries. Processions take place throughout Athens on Good Friday, while on Easter Saturday, the holy flame is brought to Athens from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

Easter isn’t the only event in Athens in spring; there’s also the Greek Independence Day on March 25th. If you’re planning to be in Athens on that day, check museum timings in advance—some may have limited hours, while others (like the Acropolis Museum) usually offer free entry. The holiday is celebrated with military parades through the city streets and by eating traditional bakaliaros skordalia (cod with garlic sauce).

Things to do in your hotel

Returning from your sightseeing and neighborhood strolling you might feel tired and enjoy some time on your hotel. Hotels offer a variety of amenities, and they are a great way to take a day off sightseeing. Here are some of the things to do while staying in your hotel.

Have a nice breakfast

Most of hotels nowadays include breakfast in their room prices. But it is not to be taken for granted, so be sure to check in advantage. Breakfast buffets are famous for their quality, variety, and exquisite flavors.

Enjoy a drink

Stating the obvious, but many hotels have fabulous built-in bars. A wide variety of soft drinks and cocktails awaits you. Do not hesitate to try the classic ones with a local twist!

Watch a sunset or sunrise

One of the most romantic things to do on a getaway in a hotel room is watching the sunset or the sunrise. Make sure you ask your hotel for a room with a balcony so you can sit outside and chat with your other half while the sun goes down.

Order room service

It can be fun to order room service because it feels like a luxury to a lot of people. Once in a while, splurge on yourself! Order from the hotel menu something that you’ve never tried before to make it all more interesting. Order several items and have a tasting party! You could also order into the room, as many hotels offer information about food delivery services.

Connect To Wifi

We’re in the digital age and being connected is an important part of our everyday lives. Before you even book your accommodation, it is important to always check if your room will have a free Wifi connection or if you’ll have to pay a little extra in order to get it. If your room comes with free wifi, make sure that as soon as you arrive, you check the password, connect to your mobile or whichever device you’ll be using to connect with your friends back home and tell them about your stay in Athens.

One of the many things that the Japanese are proud of is their beautiful gardens, which are botanical and cultural treasures. This is because they do not only have to do with a strict gardening, but they pay tribute to the culture and history of their country. If someone wants to visit a Japanese garden and admire the beautiful view of the famous cherry blossoms up close, one does not need to travel to the distant Land of the Rising Sun, as there are now Japanese gardens in many big cities around the world.

The first Japanese garden in Athens was created in the Nereidon Park, next to Michalakopoulou Street, at the height of the National Gallery, within the framework of the “Adopt your city” program of the Municipality of Athens. The Japanese Garden of Athens, created with the support of JT International Hellas and under the auspices of the Embassy of Japan, is the first theme park in the city. For the construction of the Japanese garden, 180 cubic meters of concrete were removed from curbs and rubble, which were deposited at Michalakopoulou’s construction sites at the specific point. Also, 350 cubic meters of fertile soil were transferred, small hills were created to increase the area and 50 trees and 3,000 new shrubs were planted, small and large.

The Japanese garden combines the revitalization of this green space with the highlighting of the elements of Japanese philosophy and tradition, it is a new park across 3.5 acres and creates a green oasis in a densely populated area. The garden is composed of dense vegetation and water in seven zones, considering the principles of the Japanese culture with a balanced alternation of elements of land, water and fire. However, there are species combined from both Japanese and Mediterranean flora in order for the result to be equally sustainable and in harmony with the landscape.

Why was the Japanese Garden created

The garden used to be a neglected park, which one would say went overlooked. Now, the concrete from the area is removed and inside the garden there is paved gravel, so you can hear your footsteps as you walk, thus having a sense of grounding. The purpose of the Japanese Garden is not just to be another park to be ignored, but to choose to cross it and enjoy all that it has to offer. Apart from the beautiful landscape that one will see there and will relax his eyes and mind from the noisy everyday life of Athens, he can also discover the various surprises that hide in the garden. For example, one can sit on the wooden benches stuck in the ground looking at the Art Gallery, on the upper floor of which there is a large work by Eggonopoulos that is illuminated. It is a different, magical experience that in the past one could not enjoy, as it would be difficult to enter the area and even sit in it.

The Japanese Garden is a must-see for both locals and visitors, as it can offer you a sense of tranquility and calmness.

Romance is in the eyes of the beholder, and even the simplest things become romantic if you’re in the right frame of mind. There will be various opportunities for romance during your stay in Athens. View the magical sunset at Cape Sounion, discover small treasures at the Flea Market, enjoy the nature at Parnitha, admire the view from Lycabettus hill, feel the remarkable energy on top of the Acropolis, enjoy a wonderful spa experience, or a day at the beach. The choices are endless, as long as you are accompanied by the right person. Enjoy a romantic getaway, while exploring unique places in Athens.

Visit the Cultural Park

The Cultural Park is a 25,000 square meter area in the Mesogeia region of Athens and is a place of interest for visitors of all ages. Art workshops, beads’ selling shops, handmade jewelry displays for children are the most attractive acts. Visitors can learn about Greek folklore and culture or just enjoy the natural surroundings. The Museum of Greek Ethnography is widely visited by tourists from all over the world as well as by students from various universities. There is a section dedicated to lessons from old fashioned trades, and the exhibits include old olive presses, placed in natural surroundings, amongst olive groves and vineyards. Special tours for children contain ponies and donkeys, retro bicycles and even a small train. Children love to plant herbs and aromatic plants, take care of the animals, learn how to cook and treasure hunt, in the specially planned activities.

Stroll the Diomidous Botanical Garden

The Diomides Botanical Garden in Athens is located in the neighborhood of Haidari, on the road to Eleusis, and covers an expanse of 1.86 hectares with more than 3.500 different species of plants from all over the world, including the oldest natural pine woods of Attica. The medicinal plants section has many herbs, well known for their pharmaceutical properties, such as thyme, luisa, passiflora, and lavender. The Garden, the largest of its kind in Greece, contains sections of great interest and beauty. Example of such section is the historical plants, many of which are mentioned in ancient Greek mythology. The greenhouses are filled with cacti, other succulent plants, and rainforest species which need special conditions to develop. The Botanical Garden is an institute of public benefit and endowment of the Capodistrian University of Athens. It is used by the Agricultural University of Athens and Biological section of the Capodistrian University of Athens for studying plants. Ideal for a walk amongst unique plants, for nature loving couples.

Enjoy a long walk at The National Garden of Athens

The National Garden of Athens was designed in 1836 by the German architect Friedrich von Gaertner. It was initially an idea of Queen Amalia, who reigned during that period. It was named Royal Garden until 1974. The Garden extends from Amalias’ Avenue to Irodou Attikou, where the Royal Palace used to be situated and from Vasilissis Sofias Avenue to the Zappion. The garden has a variety of plants and trees, some ancient remains, statues of famous poets and politicians, a sundial, ponds with ducks and fish, a small zoo, several gazebos and secluded romantic corners. The Athenians enjoy walking in the quiet, cool Garden, which is open from sunrise to sunset. Children can play in a specially designed playground with swings and seesaws, and adults can enjoy a coffee or a light lunch at the coffee shop. The National Garden is in walking distance. All you have to do is ask our staff for directions.

Enjoy The Acropolis breathtaking view

The Acropolis is considered the emblem of the city of Athens. It is consisted by a complex of temples built on a high rock structure, symbol of the Golden Age of Pericles. The Parthenon, which is still appreciated as sacred ground and a magnificent example of ancient Greek architecture and geometry, is dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, Athena. The Acropolis and the temples of the ancient gods were transformed into Christian churches, used as a fortress by the Turks. In the 19th century, a large part of the Parthenon sculptures was taken to Great Britain where they still remain. Bearing a great cultural heritage, the sacred rock remains the most outstanding historic site in Athens and visitors are always impressed by the timeless beauty of this monument.

Athens is visited by millions of people every year to see its ancient sites, such as the Parthenon and other temples and ruins. However, there’s more than sightseeing in Athens. The city’s imposing archaeological wonders are definitely worth seeing, but you should also take some time to explore the array of interesting neighborhoods, all with their own appeal and unique offerings. In Athens are located some great museums, as well as exquisite restaurants and taverns, an exciting nightlife scene and many popular festivals. If Athens is on your must-visit list, here’s a rundown of everything you need to know before your trip.

Getting to and from Athens Airport

The Metro railway is an easy way to get to and from the airport. If you’re heading into the city, you need to take Metro Line 3 to Syntagma Station, in Athens’ center. The trip lasts about 40 minutes, and the Metro from the airport runs every half hour, seven days a week from 6:30am to 11:30pm. A ticket will cost you 10€ or you can buy a ticket for two trips to the airport in seven days or less, for 18€, if you’re on a shorter visit.

Another option is to take one of the 24-hour express buses, which leave from the Arrivals’ hall. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at a ticket kiosk between Exits 4 and 5. Tickets cost 6€ and the bus “X95” gets you to the city center, a trip that will take you approximately 70 minutes.

If you plan on getting a taxi, there is a designated taxi waiting area at Exit 3 of the Arrivals’ level. The cost from the airport to the city center is 38€ from 5am to midnight, and 54€ from midnight to 5 in the morning.

Getting around Athens

Athens’s extensive public transportation system includes the Metro, city buses, tram, electric trolley buses, and the suburban railway. The majority of them, run from 5am to midnight whilst the Metro is running until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. A 90-minute ticket for use on all modes of transportation costs 1.40€, a 24-ticket costs 4.50€, and a 5-day ticket costs 9€. Just note that the all-mode tickets can only be used on the urban section of the suburban railway (Piraeus – SKA and Magoula – Koropi). In 2018, the Athens transport ticket system has transitioned from paper to modern electronic tickets, with the use of plastic smartcards (similar to London’s Oyster cards). 

If you like walking, the most enjoyable places to visit, are in the city center. Athens is a great place for history fans, as most of the city’s historic center has been converted into a pedestrian zone, allowing you to get to many must-see archaeological sites by foot.

Things to do in Athens

The historical center of Athens should be your first stop because seeing its major archaeological sites is a must. The Acropolis and its surrounding sites are all easy to reach on foot, as you can actually walk an entire circuit of the Acropolis and ancient Agora via the pedestrian zone mentioned above. From there, around the Acropolis you’ll see the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the ancient Theatre of Dionysus, and, once you reach the summit of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike, the awe-inspiring Parthenon, as well as a gorgeous view of the city. We recommend starting this journey either early in the morning (by 8am) or after 5pm in order to avoid the crowd.

Don’t miss a chance to visit the architecturally stunning Acropolis’ Museum. As you walk in, don’t forget to look down. Below your feet, you’ll see a plexiglass floor through which are the ruins of an ancient Athenian neighborhood. The Acropolis’ Museum presents its’ exhibits in three floors, home to numerous ancient statutes and Greek antiquities.

In Kolonaki you’ll find several worthwhile culture-hopping stops including the Museum of Cycladic Art, Byzantine and Christian Museum, and the Benaki Museum. Take a break from history and culture and wander through the winding streets of Pláka, one of the oldest districts in Athens. You can find tons of bars, cafés, and restaurants along with some shops. Athens is home to many festivals, many of which take place during the summer. One of the most popular is the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which takes place from June till August. This world-famous cultural event combines music, dance, opera, and theatre. Another great option for festivalgoers is the Athens Open Air Film Festival, which takes place from June to September. Films are screened all summer long in historical sites across the city and best of all, entrance is free.

Athens is annually the scene of a set of festivals and events that attract locals and visitors. The following are 5 annual festivals not to be missed in Athens. Proximity to the center of Athens makes it easy for the visitors to join these events, as many of them are held in that area.

Art-Athina

Art-Athina, an international contemporary art fair, is an event that art lovers, curators, galleries and collectors wait for every year. Launched in 1993 by the Hellenic Art Galleries Association, Art-Athina is one of the oldest contemporary art fairs in Europe, a place where Greek and foreign art galleries and cultural institutions come together to interact, showcase artists and expand their network.

Athens Photo Festival

The Hellenic Centre for Photography established the annual Athens Photo Festival in 1987 as a major international festival of photography. The festival aims to provide a space where artists can exchange their artistic point of view and network. The festival presents promising local talent and establishes contact with artists from around the world.

International Comics Festival

The International Comics Festival of Athens has been around since 1996, sometimes dubbed as the Babel Festival. Consequently, since its beginning, the event has managed to attract international comic artists while promoting emerging local illustrators. Held at Technopolis in Gazi, it includes exhibitions of Greek and foreign artists, concerts and events for all.

Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, from June to August, Athens and the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus are home to the “Athens’ Epidaurus Greek Festival”. An important cultural event, where theater, ballet, jazz, classical music, opera and ancient drama performances are held in several locations in Athens, such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Lycabettus Theater, as well as in the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus. Visitors can enjoy this unique festival that many consider it as the most important one in the country.

Athens Open-Air Film Festival

Established by the Athens International Film Festival and CINEMA magazine in 2011, the Athens Open Air Film Festival is a magical event where film screenings and parallel cultural events are happening all around Athens, in the most unique urban settings, against some of the city’s most iconic monuments. The festival offers unforgettable memories free of charge to locals and visitors, in parks, pedestrian streets, squares and other open areas. Don’t let this chance of seeing an old-time classic or discovering a movie with the view of the Acropolis pass you by.

Whereas it needed many years for subway service to come to Athens, the wait was well worth it. 20 years ago, Athens’ Metro came with a bang, exceeding the expectations of the locals, who have since made it part of their daily routine.

Athens metro lines and general info

Athens Metro system is consisted of 3 lines, which are known mostly by their colors and connect to the tram, bus routes, and suburban railway.

Line 1-The green line goes all the way from Piraeus to Kifissia with its most popular stations being Monastiraki, Thissio and Omonia.

Line 2-The red line runs from Anthoupoli to Elliniko and includes the most popular stations: ‘Acropolis’, ‘Syntagma’, ‘Panepistimio’, and ‘Omonia’

Line 3-The blue line is the one for the Athens International Airport, as it passes by the ‘Syntagma’ and ‘Monastiraki’ stations before terminating at ‘Agia Marina’.

What time does the Athens metro stop running?

The metro runs every day from 5:30 am to 12:30 am. However, on Fridays and Saturdays, lines 2 and 3 run until 2:30 am to serve the partygoers! The frequency of the metro is thankfully high all the time and during peak hours, the trains run every 2-3 minutes. That’s good news for commuters and visitors to the city.

Athens’ Metro Tickets

The ticketing system for Athens’ public transportation underwent a drastic revamp just a couple of years ago, bringing it to the digital times. Today, all means of public transport have replaced the typical paper ticket with electronic tickets or paper and plastic cards. Once you’ve decided to visit Athens, you have three types of tickets to choose from when you need to catch a bus. Below you will find information about each ticket.

The Ath.ena ticket

The Athena ticket is a paper ticket that can be used for anything, from a 90-minute ticket to a 5-day ticket and is rechargeable. You can buy it at any metro station or ticket office as well as in the automatic ticket machines.

The Anonymous Athena Card 

An Anonymous Athena Card is rechargeable and can be as well used for any ticket you might need. For travelers and visitors of Athens, the Anonymous Athena Card is the most useful choice, because it is also valid for airport transfers, as well as the 3-day tourist ticket that includes airport transfers. However, you cannot purchase the Anonymous Athena Card from an automatic ticket machine, but you can get one at a ticket office in any metro station. You can also recharge it anywhere you like – automatic ticket issuing machines included.

The Personal Athena Card 

The Personal Athena Card is designed for people who spend a lot of time in Athens. The biggest difference between the Personal and the Anonymous card is that the first one has your photo on it. If you want a Personal card, you need to visit an Athens Transport Ticket office with your Greek ID card or, if you are a foreigner, with your passport. If you are eligible for a half-price ticket, you’ll have to issue a personal Athena card. Alternatively, you can buy half price plain Athena tickets exclusively at all suburban railway stations. We promise this is way easier than it seems! However, if you find any trouble purchasing your ticket or deciding which one to go for, just ask the metro staff for help and they’ll help you out!

The center of Athens is an area which gives you access to many parts of the city, but is mainly a way of life. The most famous area that blends with the historic value, the European atmosphere with the cosmopolitan aura and its natural beauty. The natural and beautiful buildings, interwar houses, museums, cafes, restaurants, bars, shops, with separate roads, gardens, and squares give another colour and tone to life, dilating the time. You can discern scattered architectural buildings and museums, archaeological sites. The National Library, the Academy of Athens, Athens University that testify to the historical value, as written in the past few centuries.

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Planning a trip to Athens soon? We’ve chosen a handful of the top neighbourhoods in the Greek capital that are perfect to visit during your holiday. And with so much rich history and culture, plus great cafes, eateries, and boutiques, these spots are sure to delight all the senses.

Plaka

The oldest part of Athens, Plaka is a picturesque neighbourhood filled with beautiful houses, loads of restaurants and cafes, and some of the city’s best museums and archaeological sights. 

Anafiotika

Reminiscent of a small Cycladic island with its white cubic houses and blue doors and windows, this area is partially covered by beautiful bougainvillea. Anafiotika is an oasis of tranquillity in the centre of the Greek capital and a spot to take amazing photos. 

Koukaki

An older residential neighbourhood, Koukaki is close to Plaka, but far less touristy and much quieter than the more popular central neighbourhoods. Here you will find some great spots to grab a coffee and bite to eat. 

Kifissia

One of Athens’ most upmarket neighbourhoods, Kifissia is about 45 minutes from the centre of Athens via metro. Perfect place to stroll around and enjoy the greenery, and also the place to go if you are looking for some boutique stores and gorgeous cafes. 

Psirri

A wonderful place buzzing with colourful taverns, cafes, and bars, Psirri comes alive at night with locals and international visitors who gather to enjoy a casual dinner at one of the many traditional taverns. 

Syntagma

This is Athens’ central square and home to the Greek Parliament House and where you will catch the Evzones (changing of the guards.)  It’s also the top of famous Ermou Street, the city’s busiest shopping strip. 

Kolonaki

Upscale, and filled with designer shops, museums, cafes, restaurants, and bars, Kolonaki is a glamorous neighbourhood at the foot of Lykavittos Hill and a place where you will find locals wining and dining on any given evening. 

Chalandri

The Northern suburb of Chalandri is one of the hippest neighbourhoods in Athens and a great place to visit. From a great range of eateries, bakeries, and cafes to unique bookstores, jewellery shops, and cinemas, there is something here to suit all tastes. 

Pangrati

With an array of amazing places to eat and drink, Pangrati features some trendy shops, art galleries, and some amazing buildings. Pangrati is also home to Athens’ oldest cinema, Pallas, which opened in 1925.

Gazi

This neighbourhood in Athens has received a major makeover over the last few years and has now become one of the most popular spots for Athenians. With some must-see galleries, all-day cafes, and ancient sites, you can spend all day here and it’s still not enough. 

Thissio

A great place, especially over summer as it’s a favourite venue for open-air events and festivals. Athenians love coming here for a catch-up with friends at one of the many cafes. Make sure you check out the museums and the open-air Cinema, which opened in 1935. 

Glyfada

Another upscale area of Athens, Glyfada features seaside living complete with endless restaurants, bars, and boutique stores. The area is very popular, especially over summer where it gets packed with international visitors making the most of the Athenian Riviera views. 

Voula/ Vouliagmeni

Also along Athens Riviera, here you will find some of the city’s best beaches and swimming spots, as both neighbourhoods (located next to each other) are upscale residential areas. The “downtown” of Voula has lots of restaurants and cafés, and Vouliagmeni is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Athens. 

Pireaus

From fine dining restaurants to little-known archaeological treasures, there’s a lot more to Piraeus than its port. With great bakeries and cafes to the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, make sure you add this neighbourhood to your list. Zea Harbor is also located here; it’s a promenade of restaurants, cafés, and home to lots of fancy yachts.

Mets 

This is actually a small section of the central suburb of Pangrati that has a character of its own. Less than a 10-minute walk to Syntagma Square and to the Acropolis, where you feel as though you are in a small town rather than a big city. It’s away from the crowds and tourists and a place where you will get a real sense of old Athens.  

Fix

Only a ten-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum and lots more historical sites, this is another lesser-known neighbourhood in Athens. Full of charming cafés with outdoor tables, it’s a great place to stroll around. Make sure you stop off at the National Museum of Contemporary Art. 

Welcome to the capital of Greece. Within walking distance you will come across an abundance of unique restaurants, small bars and inimitable coffee shops, hidden in the corners of the streets, waiting for you to discover their incomparable beauty, that can only be found in the center of Athens.

Greece is widely known for the different forms of entertainment that has to offer to the visitors and has been voted as one of the world’s top holiday destinations. In Athens are placed most of the artistic and cultural centers of the country, plenty of independent parks and cafes, a variety of clubs, avantgarde bars and traditional “rakadika”, humble taverns and expensive restaurants. We recommend you visit Taf the Art Foundation, A for Athens cocktail Bar, Ta Karamanlidika for souvlaki -the Greek “traditional” street food.  

You can also find old bookstores and vinyl record shops, antiques selling spots, second hand and vintage clothes selling boutiques, as well as luxury high fashion ateliers.

As mentioned before, Athens is acknowledged for its timeless historical centre and its infinite picturesque neighbourhoods, in which you could enjoy your stroll for hours and get lost in. You can step into the streets of Athens and find Exarchia, the Academia (University) and its metro stop. Also, in walking distance Kolonaki is located, with Omonia next to it, as well as Plaka with its charming walkways. Every Athenian neighbourhood has a unique style and character, some fitting to a more luxurious way of living and others with more of a cultural and intimate atmosphere.

Visitors from around the world are amazed by the capital of Greece and the unique experiences Athens has to offer.

In Athens, Greece, you can find some of the most beautiful and historical monuments of the world. Most of them can be found in the center of Athens and some are spread throughout Greece’s suburbs and islands.

The Great Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum are located, in the center of Athens. Another outstanding attraction of the Greek capital and in close proximity to our rooms, is the ancient market, that has been the center of the economical, political, educational and philosophical life of Ancient Greece.

If you are interested in some fascinating exhibitions, you can visit the Athens’ War Museum, the Goulandris’ Museum of Modern Art and the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, some of the most famous and respected museums in Greece.

Palaio Faliro is an area close to the center of Athens, where you can spend some quality time at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. You can watch a ballet performance from the Greek National Opera, relax in its’ cozy library or enjoy the warm Greek weather while strolling around in its’ beautiful gardens. If you are intrigued by science, you can also visit the Eugenides Foundation Planetarium and enjoy a walk among the stars. Greece has a great variety of different forms of entertainment for you to choose from.

If you are in the mood for a road trip, we would suggest you go to Cape Sounio and the temple of Poseidon. You will be able to enjoy the sea and have a swim in the wonderful beaches, awarded for their crystal-clear water.

Given the fact that you are in the center of Athens, you have the benefit to choose from a wide range of transportation services. Withing walking distance, you will find the Panepistimio metro station and multiple bus lines, that can transfer you anywhere you want in Athens, in no time.

We highly suggest you dedicate at least one day in going sightseeing in Athens and we firmly believe that you will not regret it!