The city of Athens has a number of parks that serve as green lungs for the Greek capital. They also provide a great opportunity to relax and recharge. One of the most popular parks in Athens is the pleasantly manicured patch of paths and greenery centered on the neoclassical Zappeion Hall, where Greece signed its accession to the EU.
Filopappou Hill
The hilltop park at Filopappou Hill is a great place to explore on foot during the day and offers inspiring views towards the Acropolis. However, it is recommended that you avoid this area late at night due to a high crime rate.
The main entrance to the park is located on the cobbled boulevard of Apostolou Pavlou between the upscale neighborhoods of Thissio and Makrygianni. From here, visitors can wander a series of woodland trails and seek out secluded churches or viewpoints that offer unparalleled views of the Acropolis.
At the top of the 147-meter-high hill sits a funerary monument designed to honor Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos. The monument is adorned with a chariot and was erected in the 2nd century AD to commemorate the prince who earned the nickname “Filopappou” (meaning the favoritism of his grandfather).
Another notable site within the park is the neoclassical mansion that serves as the Benaki Museum, home to art from Greece’s entire history. It also has a lovely garden where visitors can enjoy coffee on the sun-washed terrace. There are some thoughtful and inventive directorial touches in The Grass is Greener, including the way that Donen uses empty chairs or bedroom doors to create visual pauses. However, the script isn’t consistently amusing enough to carry the film on its own.
Lykavittos Hill
The highest peak in the city of Athens, Lykavittos Hill or Lukabetokia in Greek, provides a peaceful and picturesque escape from the busy streets of the capital. The hill has a variety of paths and roadways that can be used for walking and jogging during the day. The top of the mountain is topped by a small 19th-century chapel and a restaurant. The hill also has an open-air theatre which has played host to many international and Greek musicians over the years.
During the day you can take the cable car to reach the top of the hill or you can walk up the stairs and paved pathways which crisscross the mountain. The hill is a popular destination for Athenians and tourists alike as the views from the summit are spectacular. The peak of the hill is adorned with pine trees and offers a relaxing respite from the city below.
The peaks of the hill also houses the little chapel of St George which is a picturesque sight and the perfect place to capture that special moment in time. For a romantic evening you can head up the hill after dark and dine at the restaurant which has an open terrace.
Kolonaki Church
The most famous green space in the city is Filopappou Hill, whose pine-shaded slopes face the Acropolis and contain the cell where Socrates was allegedly held. Bird watchers and dog walkers love the park, which stretches 173 acres into the heart of the city center.
Another major park in the city is Agios Dimitrios Loubardiaris, located on the prestigious Skoufa Street in Kolonaki. The church is dedicated to Saint Dionysius the Areopagite and features neo-baroque and neoclassical architectural elements. The temple also holds a museum with a marvelous courtyard.
The municipality of Athens has introduced a new way to upgrade public space with pocket parks, a series of small gardens in the heart of the city. These garden oases are intended to change the physiognomy of neighborhoods that have traditionally been short on open green spaces. The idea is to encourage Athenians to use their cities more freely, as well as to create sustainable neighborhoods that will stand the test of time. The municipal authority has created three pocket parks so far, including the one in Kolonaki. It is hoping to expand its efforts throughout the city, and will soon be able to transform a whole district.
National Garden
At the heart of the city, right next to the parliament building, lies the National Garden. Originally known as the Royal Garden, it was commissioned by Queen Amalia of Greece in 1838 to be created beside her palace. She was influenced by contemporary agrarian reformers and introduced experimental tree nurseries in the park along with several zoological species.
Today the park is open to all and hosts a number of activities throughout the year. Visitors can stroll around, walk the jogging paths or simply relax on one of the many benches. The National Garden also houses a small botanical garden with various flowers and trees from all over the world. Palms and cypresses from the Canary Islands, pines from Australia and Chinese trees of heaven compose the fairytale scenery.
A neo-classical library and a conservatory are also worth visiting. By the eastern end of the park you can also find a pond where ducks and turtles roam freely. During the summertime, you can even watch a movie in the open-air cinema of Cine Aegli. The National Garden is one of the most popular parks in the city and has a special place in the heart of Athens.
Syntagma Square
Located in the heart of Athens, Syntagma Square is a must-see for every visitor. It is surrounded by iconic landmarks, like the Greek Parliament building and the National Garden, as well as luxury hotels, shopping street Ermou, small affordable restaurants, and cozy cafes where you can get snacks or drinks.
Originally known as Perivolakia, the area where the square now stands was home to a palace that was designed by Bavarian architect Friedrich von Gaertner for King Otto of Greece. However, the people were dissatisfied with the way he and his wife Amalia ruled: they didn’t follow Greek Orthodox traditions and had run the country into a huge debt. So in 1843, the citizens gathered here right in front of the Palace and demanded that they be granted a constitution. That was why the square was later renamed to Syntagma Square (literally: “Constitution Square”).
Today, it is one of the most important places in Athens and a major tourist attraction, not only for its historic significance but also because it’s where many tours start, especially walking ones led by a knowledgeable local guide. You’ll be able to hear meaningful insights on the history and culture of the area from your guide while also receiving invaluable recommendations for artisanal shops and authentic restaurants to try.
Metsovo Cemetery
In this open-air museum, you’ll find the famous sculpture “I Koimomeni” (Sleeping Maiden) that depicts a young girl lying dead. The piece is one of the most famous in modern Greece and was created by Yannoulis Chalepas, a well-known Greek sculptor. It adorns the tomb of Sofia Afentaki, a young woman who died in a car accident.
At the top of Areopagus Hill, you can see incredible views of the Parthenon and the city skyline. It’s a great spot for photos, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the climb can be slippery. The hill was named for a trial held here in the ancient times. Today, the hill is a popular place for locals to exercise and enjoy some fresh air.
Metsovo is the largest Vlach village in Greece and offers a glimpse into a different side of Greek culture. The traditional houses and fresh mountain air will charm you. There are several shops selling local crafts and woodwork items. The church of Agia Paraskevi is also worth a visit.
Agios Georgios Theodoros Park
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The best time to visit Agios Georgios is from late spring to early autumn. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is at its most beautiful. However, it is also the peak season, so prices will be higher and you will encounter larger crowds.
Agios Georgios is home to a number of tourist attractions, including the Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station, which focuses on preserving green and loggerhead turtles. It is also a short drive away from the Akamas Peninsula National Park, where you can explore the beautiful natural scenery and enjoy a range of water activities. Another must-see attraction is the Steni Museum of Village Life, which offers a glimpse into traditional Cypriot life.
