From the historic areas, to the markets, cafes and nightlife – there’s a wide selection of amazing neighbourhoods for visitors to choose from while visiting Athens…
Plaka
Whether you are in the mood for shopping or just strolling around, the historic centre is the place to be while in Athens. Plaka is the most famous district in the city. It is situated at the base of the Acropolis, and it is famous for cobblestone streets, traditional souvenir shops, local taverns, and cafes amongst museums and ancient ruins. Anafiotika is a district in Plaka with small alleys and colourful houses, like a small island just below the Acropolis. Visiting Anafiotika is one of the top things to do while in Athens.
Monastiraki
Monastiraki is an iconic place to visit, right in the heart of Athens. It is a large square known for the vibrant feeling of street musicians and the flea market. In Monastiraki, the old and the new meet and coexist in harmony. You can find almost everything from fashion items, like clothes and jewellery, to second-hand furniture. At night the place changes completely as the second-hand shops close and bars open. It is as if the city has a different personality in the morning and a different one during the night.
Syntagma
Syntagma is located in the very heart of Athens, known for the Constitution Square in front of the Greek Parliament House. The National Garden is right next to it. While being in the city centre, take the time to see the change of guard of the Evzones, the soldiers guarding the building who are dressed in traditional Greek uniforms. Then stroll around the gardens and find a quiet spot just in the city’s heart. Visiting the National Garden feels like transmitting instantly in a magical place – like a moment of tranquillity in the most restless city.
Thissio
Thissio is one of the most pleasant places in the city. A lively neighbourhood on the southwest of Monastiraki, filled with cafes and restaurants and known for its amazing view of the Acropolis. You can enjoy a long night walk at the wide pedestrian or even catch some classic movies in the open-air cinema during summer nights. While walking down the pedestrianised road Dionysiou Aeropagitou, you’ll find lots of cafes and restaurants amongst the neoclassical buildings. If you continue walking towards Koukaki, you will pass outside the Acropolis Museum.
Psiri
Psiri is the most unconventional district. Located on the northeastern side of Monastiraki, this area is known in the past for being populated by artisans and craftsmen laboratories belonging to potters, sculptors, tailors, and more. In a way, history still remains as you’ll find lots of small boutiques and shops selling handmade objects whilst still in the capital! Psiri is one of the best places in the city centre to spend the night out. While it is quiet in the morning, during the night, you’ll find lots of people having fun and a range of different bars and restaurants to choose from.
