Athens 2806 Web PDF

Athens landmarks best of arts & culture, sites
A quick guide to some of the citys must see
Archaeological Sites Monastiraki Square) [C3-C4] Frissiras Museum (3-7, Monis

Asteriou str., 210 3234678,
& Landmarks
EMBASSIES IN ATHENS UNITED KINGDOM: 1 Ploutarhou Street, 10675
Acropolis [D2]
Theatres, Concerts www.frissirasmuseum.com)
Athens, Tel: +30 7272600, Fax:+30 210 7272723
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: 91 Vasilissis Sofias
CAROLINA
Ancient Agora [C3]

and Cinemas [E2]
Museum of Greek
ALBANIA: 7, Vekiareli Street, 15237 Filothei,
Athens, Avenue, 10160 Athens, Tel: +30 2107212951-9, Dionysos Ancient Theatre [D2] Dora Stratou Dance Theatre Childrens Art (9, Kodrou
Tel: +30 210 6876200 Fax:+30 210 6876223 Fax:+30 2106456282 UNITED
Greek Parliament & Tomb of the Traditional Greek dance str., 210 3312621; www.
BULGARIA: 33 A, Stratigou Kallari Str, 15452
KINGDOM
Unknown Soldier, performances (Filopappou childrensartmuseum.gr) [E3]
Paleo Psychico, Athens, Tel: +30 210 6748105-8, General Tourist Info Syntagma Sq. [E3] Hill, tel: 210 3244395; www. Greek Folk Art Museum(s)
Handrians Arch (Vasilissis Olgas grdance.org) [A1]
DIAMOND
Fax:+30 2106748130
AMAZ
AM AZON
Main Building, (17,
CHINA: 10, Dimokratias Street, 15452 Paleo Attica Hotel Association 210 3235485; Ave.) [E2] Greek National Opera Kydathinaion str., 210 3229031;
Psychico, www.all-athens-hotels.com
CENTRAL
HERMES
Herodus Atticus Theatre [C2] (Olympia Theatre, 59-61 www.melt.gr) [E2-E3]
Tel: +30 2106783840, Fax:+30 210 6723819 Greek National Tourism Organisation Kerameikos [A4-B4] Akadimias str., 210 3612461; Tzizdaraki Mosque (Folk
CYPRUS:2A, Xenofontos Street, 10557, Athens, 210 3310392, 210 3310716, 210 3310347 Filopappou Hill/Hill of the Pnyx www.nationalopera.gr) [E5] Art Museum), (1, Areos str.,
Tel: +30 210 3734800, +30 210 3734870 , (fax); www.visitgreece.gr [A2-B2] Herodus Atticus Theatre Monastiraki Sq., 210 3242066)
Fax:+30 210 7231927 Hellenic Association of Travel & Tourist Agencies
BOSNIA
Roman Agora (Pelopida str. Main venue for performances [C3-C4]
EGYPT: 3, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 10671 Athens, (HATTA) 210 9223522; www.hatta.gr & Eolou) [C3-D3] held by the Athens Festival, Bath House of the Winds (Folk
Tel: +30 210 3618612, Fax:+30 210 3603538 Olympic Air 2103550500, 8018010101 (within Temple of Olympian Zeus including operas, music Art Museum), Kyrrestou and
FRANCE: 7 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, 10671 Athens, Greece); www.olympicair.com (Vasilissis Olgas Ave.) [E1-E2] and dance. (Box Office: Lysiou str., 210 3244340) [D3]
Tel: +30 210 3391000, Fax:+30 2103391009 Aegean Airlines 801 112 0000, 210 6261000
DIOSKOUROS
DIOSKOUROS
39, Panepistimiou str.; 210 Greek Musical Instruments
GEORGIA: 24, Agiou Dimitriou Street, 15452 Paleo www.aegeanair.com 9282900, 210 3272000; Museum (1-3, Diogenous str.,
Psychico, Cyprus Air 211 1018200, 211 1018240, Religious www.greekfestival.gr) [C2] Aerides sq., 210 3254119) [D3]
Monuments Herakleidon-Experience in
Visit some of the many churches Outdoor cinemas
Tel: +30 210 7489180 www.cyprusair.com
GERMANY: 3, Karaoli Dimitriou Street, 10675 Visual Arts (16, Irakleidon str.,
found in Athens, many of which An outdoor cinema is a must to 210 3461981,
Emergency Numbers
BACKP
CKPACKERS
CKPA
Athens, date back to the 5th century, experience when you visit during www.herakleidon-art.gr) [B3]
Tel: +30 2107285111, Fax:+30 210 72585335 to appreciate their Byzantine spring, summer or early fall. The History University of Athens
INDIA: 3, Kleanthous Street, 10674 Athens, Police: 1033 architecture. movies, always the most current Museum (5, Tholou str., 210
Tel: +30 210 7216227, Fax:+30 210 7211252 Emergency: 100 titles, are played in their native
ISRAEL: 1 Marathonodromon Street, 15452 Athens (Metropolis) Cathedral language with Greek subtitles. 3240861) [D3]
Tourist Police: 171 (information available in Jewellery Museum Ilias
Psychico, En,Fr, Ge) (Mitropoleos str.) [D3]
Tel: +30 210 6705500, 6773784, Fax:+30 210 Church of the Holly Power (Agia Lalaounis (12, Kallisperi
Airport Police: 210 3536919
6749510 Fire Emergency: 199
ACROPOLIS
MUSEUM
Dinami), (Mitropoleos str. & Museums str. & 4A Karyatidon, 210
The City of Athens

ITALY:2 Sekeri Street, 10674 Athens, Tel: +30 Pentelis) [E3] 9221044, www.lalaounis-
Ambulance: 166 The New Acropolis Museum jewelrymuseum.gr) [C2-D2]
2103617260, Fax:+30 2103617330 Poison Control: 210 7793777 Church of the Tetraconch, (15, Dionisiou Areopagitou
JAPAN: 46, Ethnikis Antistasseos Street, 15231 Handrians Library Garden [D3] Jewish Museum (39, Nikis str.,
Aids Help Line: 210 7222222 str., 210 9000900; www.
official visitors
Halandri, St. Demetrius Loubardiaris, 210 3225582,
Hospitals, pharmacies: 14944 theacropolismuseum.gr) [D1] www.jewishmuseum.gr) [E3]
Tel: +30 210 6709900, Fax:+30 210 6709980 SOS Doctors: 1016 Filopappou Hill [B2] Ancient Agora Museum
KOREA: 124, Kifissias Avenue, 11526 Athens, St. Fotini Church, (Kallirois Kerameikos Archaeological
Road Side Assistance ELPA: 10400 (24, Adrianou str., 210
Guide
Tel: +30 210 6984080, Fax: +30 210 6984083 str.) [E1] Museum (148, Ermou str., 210
Traffic Police of Athens: 210 5284000 3210185) [C3] 3463552) [A4]
NETHERLANDS: 5-7 Vasileos. Konstantinou St. Marina, Thissio [B3] Athens Municipal Galleries Metro Station Museums at
Avenue, 10674 Athens, Tel: +30 210 7254900,
Fax:+30 210 7254907 Hospitals Greek Cup Panagia Kapnikarea, (Ermou
str.) [D4]
(two locations) (51, Pireos str., Syntagma, Panepistimiou and
Gazi, 210 3243023) [B5-C5] & Acropolis stations [E3-E5-D1]
PAKISTAN: 6, Loukianou Street, 10675 Athens,
Tel: +30 210 7290214, Fax: +30 210 7290214 Alexandras, 80 Vasilissis Sofias Ave., 213 2162000 800 B.C. (Leonidou & Myllerou str., 210 Melina Mercouri Cultural
RUSSIA: 28, Nikiforou Litra Street, 15452 Paleo Andreas Syngros, 5 I. Dragoumi, 210 6432220 Other Religious Sites 3231841) [A5]
Benaki Museum(s)
Centre (66, Irakleidon str., 210
Psychico, Athens Psychiatric Clinic, 360 Athinon str., Haidari, 3452150) [A4]
213 2054999 The Anglican Church, Museum of Islamic Art (22, National Historical Museum
Tel: +30 210 6725235, Fax:+30 210 6749708 (Filellinon & Amalias) [E2] Agion Asomaton and 12 Dipylou (13, Stadiou str., Kolokotroni
SPAIN: 21, Dionisiou Areopagitou Street, 11742, Evangelismos, 45-47 Ypsilandou str., 213
2041000 The Catholic Church of St. str. Kerameikos, 210 3251311-2, Sq., 210 3237617) [E4]
Athens, Dionysios, (Panepistimou and www.benaki.gr) [B5]
Tel: +30 210 9213123, Fax: +30 210 9213238 Eye Hospital of Athens, Vissarionos & Sina, Psaropoulos Centre-Museum
Omirou str.) [E4] Canellopoulos Museum (12, for the Study of Contemporary
SWITZERLAND: 2, Iassiou Street, 115 21 Athens, 210 3623191-2
Ippokrateio, 114 Vasilissis Sofias str., 213 2088000
We support culture Holocaust Memorial, (near the Theorias str., 210 3212313; Pottery (4,Melidoni str., 210
Tel: + 30 210 723 03 64, Fax: +30 210 724 92 09 In OPAP we sponsor the athletes of art and Beth Shalom Synagogue at 5, www.
TURKEY: 8 Vasileos Georgiou Street, 10674 KAT, 2 Nikis str., Kifissia, 213 2086000 3318491,
Laiko, 17 Agiou Thoma str., Goudi, 213 2060800 culture. We reform archaeological sites and Melidoni str.) [B4] pakanellopoulosfoundation. www.potterymuseum.gr) [B4]
Athens, Tel: +30 210 7263000, Fax:+30 210 The Russian Church, (Filellinon org) [C3]
7229597 Childrens Hospital Aglaia Kyriakou , Thivon & monuments all over Greece. We support music,
Levadias, Ambelokipi: 213 2009000 & Amalias) [E2-E3] City of Athens Museum (5-7,
UKRAINE: 2-4 Stephanou Delta Street, 15237 cinema, theatre and photography events. Tzidaraki Mosque, (Folk Paparigopoulou str., Klathmonos
Filothei, Tel: + 30 210 6800230, Fax: +30 210 Art Museum), (1, Areos str., sq., 210 3246164) [E3]
6854154 NOT FOR SALE
ODEON
Athensofficial ECONOMY
si
city map
fo
Transportation
ZEUS
or
5
am
et
M
EVRIPIDIS
ERIDANOUS ATHINAIKON
CECIL Metro Line 1(ISAP) KTELas they are known, serve Ag. Anargyroi
ISLAMIC Referred to as Metro Line 1, destinations outside Athens
COLLECTION
the Electric Railway Company, and have a dense network
or ISAP, runs between Piraeus throughout Greece. Almost every
ATTALOS and Kifissia and connects to city and village has a local KTEL
METRO ST
STATION
KERAMIKOS
KERAMIK Metro Lines 2,3, the tram and with routes to main centres and
bus routes at hub stations.210 to Athens. There are three central
SYNAGOGUE
CAROLINA 3248311, www.isap.gr KTEL terminals in Athens:
HOLOCAUST
4 MONUMENT
Metro Lines 2 & 3

KTEL Attikis (210 8808080;
www.ktelattikis.gr) serves the Tavros
Zappeio
Two lines (Metro Line 2 and 3) Attica Municipality; Vouliagmenis Ave.
serve 34 stations; 210 5194012, KTEL Kifissos: (100, Kifissou
www.ametro.gr str., 210 5124910) serves the UNITED
Peloponnese and western KINGDOM
Hellenic Railways Greece; KTEL Liosion: (260,

Organization (OSE)
TZIDARAKI
HERAKL MOSQUE
DIAMOND
Liosion str., 210 8317186
MUSEUMEIDON HADRIANS
LIBRARY AMAZON Domestic and international www.ktel.org) serves central
departures from Athens with and northern Greece.
connections to major railways.
CENTRAL
HERMES Main station: Larissa station, Tram
3 serves northern Greece and Tram S.A. Ecologically and
international routes. Quick dial: environmentally friendly, with a
14511, 1110 www.ose.gr view of the Saronic Gulf, the Tram
Proastiakos/Suburban Railway connects the center of Athens
Quick dial: 14511, 1110 with the coastal neighborhoods
BOSNIA
The high-speed suburban Glyfada, in the east, and Piraeus equipped with meters (the fare Airport Blue Star Ferries: 210 8919800, www.bluestarferries.gr
ANEN Lines: 28210 20345, www.anen.gr
railway line connects the airport (nearAthens Port), in the west. is charged per km and per hour) Athens International Airport
Three station hubs along its and display a card detailing the Arrivals/Departures 210 3530000; www.aia.gr NEL: 210 4115015, www.nel.gr
to the centre & serves the ANEK: 210 4197420, www.anek.gr
suburbs of Athens. routes connect passengers with latest valid tariffs and surcharges. Minoan Lines: 210 4145700, www.minoanlines.gr
Metro Lines 2 and 3 and one Ferry Lines Superfast Ferries: 210 8919130, www.superfast.com
Buses station connects to the Electric Car Rentals Ship/Ferry Schedule: 14541
DIOSKOUROS
Railway (ISAP), or Metro Line 1. There are numerous reliable car Hellenic Seaways: 210 4199000, www.hellenicseaways.gr
Thermal Buses S.A (ETHEL):
2 Core lines that connect the 210 9978000, www.tramsa.gr
Tip:When travelling on the
rental agencies in Athens. Major
and local agencies can operate
Athens and Piraeus city centre
with the centres of surrounding bus, metro, railway and tram, only if licensed by the Greek Sea Transport/Ports Rafina Port: (2nd largest port, Lavrio Port: (approximately
municipalities. Quick dial info: passengers are required to National Tourist Organization approximately 45 minutes from 1 hour from centre);
validate their tickets. The Pireaus Port: info-line 14541;
185, 210 4933002, (G.N.T.O.) and require a valid www.olp.gr- main port with centre): 22940-22300 & 22940 22920 26859 serves Kea,
www.ethel.gr validation machines in the buses national driving license. Before 28888. To reach Rafina, take the Kithnos, Syros,Tinos, Andros,
year-round service to international
Trolley or Electric Buses (ILPAP) and trolleybuses are orange renting make sure the vehicle destinations as well as islands of bus from 29 Mavromateon Str. In Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros,
One more means of transport to boxes inside the vehicles. On
BACKPACKERS
has adequate insurance cover the Argosaronic Gulf, Dodecanese, Athens at the Pedio Areos park. 45 Milos, PAros, Naxos, Limnos,
take you where you want to go the metro, the boxes are in the (against accident, theft, fire, Ionion, and Cycladic. minutes by bus Agios Efstratios and Kavala.
in Athens. Quick dial: 185, station lobby and on the tram, etc).
www.ethel.gr there are beige boxes located on Drivers Licenses
1 the platform. EU citizens can use their own.
Intercity Bus Company Other nationals should have an Say Hello/Goodbye: Ya sou Good afternoon: Kalispera
of Association of Bus Taxi International Drivers License in it in
PAGRATIOU
To your health: Stin E-ya Sou Good night: Kalinihta

ACROPOLIS
HILL
Operators (KTEL) Greek taxis offer an alternative to addition to their valid drivers
Greek
The Greek bus companies, or mass transit. All licensed taxis are license. Good morning: Kalimera Thank you: Efharisto
Pagrati
C D AACROPOLIS
CROPOLIS

MUSEUM
PAGRATION
Sign up for This is MY Athens visitor greeter
program and let us make our Athens your Athens!
Discover Athens with an Athens Local
Sign up today at www.thisisathens.org
Its free!
For additional information and queries, please
email us at: info@developathens.gr
GREEK ORGANIZATION
OF FOOTBALL
PROGNOSTICS
(OPAP S.A.)
GREEK OF FOOTBALL
ORGANIZATION PROGNOSTICS (OPAP S.A.)
OPAP S.A. is the leader gaming In 2000, OPAP acquired from the reached 2.94bn, whereas taxes Focusing to its key principal,
operator in Greece, exclusively State a 20-year license to be the of 285m were paid to the Greek OPAP continuously supports
conducting, managing, exclusive operator of lottery and state. The distribution of a total
an extended Corporate Social
organizing and operating sports betting games. In 2001, dividend of 229.7m is subject
numerical lottery and sports the company was listed in the to approval by the Shareholders Responsibility Program through
betting games in Greece and Athens Stock Exchange (ATHEX) Annual General Meeting. which contributes in the fields
Cyprus, through an extensive with the Hellenic Republic, As an active member of of sports, culture, healthcare,
network, currently comprised following consecutive offerings, international organizations and education and environment.
of more than 5,000 licensed currently maintaining 34% of the associations of games of chance
agencies. companys shares. (World Lotteries Association, The company applies an
OPAP was founded in 1958 in OPAP S.A. is considered to be European Lotteries, European Integrated Management
order to organize and operate one of the leading Companies Lotteries Sports, European System which addresses Quality
PROPO (the Greek Football Pools in the global gaming sector. Association for the Study of (ISO 9001:2009), Environment
game). In 1999, the company In 2011, the Groups revenues Gambling), OPAP maintains
Management (ISO 14001:2004)
was incorporated as a Societ reached 4.36bn while net profit a dynamic stance in the
Anonyme with the Hellenic stood at 537.5m. Prize payouts international developments of and Responsible Care (SA
Republic as the sole stakeholder. to lottery and betting winners the gaming sector. 8000:2008).
contents
Page 8 Sightseeing a city with history
The Acropolis, Monuments and temples,
interesting walks, architectural grace. Plus! What
you will find on the sacred rock of the Acropolis
and a checklist of must-see sites and museums.
Page 34 1-2-3 Days in Athens

Ready-made itineraries. The top sites, museums,
neighbourhoods.
Page 44 Lifestyle a vibrant city
Shop, eat, drink, dance with tips on where and
what. Plus! Unique to Athens entertainment
venues for all tastes.
Page 60 Endless Blue, a city by the sea
Swim, surf, stroll and more. Plus! Where to enjoy
romantic sunsets and mega-yachts.
Page 72 Day Trips Cool and Close by Islands,

mountains and villages. Plus! The ancient sites,
temples and sanctuary of Mycenae, Delphi and
Olympia + useful information of ports & bus
terminals.
Edited and designed by the team FreeSunday

*Printed in June 2012
sightseeingacity
withhistory
History unfolds with every step in Athens, from the Parthenon atop the
Acropolis, to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion on the tip of At-
tica. The establishment of Athens as a city dates back to mythological
times. The modern capital encompasses ancient and medieval history
interpreting it into the contemporary era.
8 www.breathtakingathens.com www.breathtakingathens.com 9
sightseeingacitywithhistory
Fun for the whole

family
ATTICA ZOOLOGICAL PARK
This awe-inspiring zoo in Spata, hosting among others the 5th largest
bird collection in the world, will leave your children wide-eyed with
amazement. Near Athens International Airport, and just 18 km (11.2 miles),
or 25 minutes away from the centre of Athens, this 32-acre wild kingdom
wonder is crawling with over 2000 animals from 380 different species,
such as lions, giraffes, dolphins, wolves, lemurs, penguins, chimps, rhinos,
bears, sea lions, parrots, birds of prey, and many more. Not just a place
for entertainment and relaxation, but also a site of education and species
conservation, Attica Zoological Park attracts hundreds of thousands of
visitors of all ages from all over the world, who come here to experience
a unique five continent journey. A definite must do during your stay in
Athens, or at least on your way to the airport!
Yalou, Spata, tel: 210 6634724, website: www.atticapark.com; OH: daily,
9am-sunset; Admission: adults 15, kids up to 12 years old 11, children
under 3 free; Access: by car a) exit 18 to Spata (from the airport), b) exit
16P to Rafina (from Elefsina), c) end of Attiki Odos towards Rafina (from
Ymittos Ringroad) by bus: take the 319 from Doukissis Plakentias Metro
Station (Metro Line 3)
(The Acropolis, during the period 447-432 BC.
monuments Across the Parthenon, at the
northern end of the hill, stands
and temples, in- the Erechtheion, a temple of
teresting walks, Ionic order. Built on two levels,

the Erechtheion is most widely
architectural renowned by the Caryatids, the
six graceful female statues that
miracles) support the roof of the temple.
As you leave, behind you, you
meet on the way Rock of Mars
Explore the Acropolis (Areios Pagos) : a limestone hill,
115m high, with steep sides and
At this point, our guide focuses uneven summit. It used to be the
on the Acropolis and the meeting point of the aristocratic
monuments that are situated on council and the courthouse of
the top of the Sacred Rock and at ancient Athens. South of the
the surrounding archaeological Acropolis stands the temple of
park. Start at Hadrians Arch Apteros Nike or Temple of
(at Vasilisis Olgas Ave.), a Athena Nike, an example of the
monument built as tribute to work of architect Kallikrates. It was
the roman emperor Hadrian by built around 420 BC to honour
the Athenians in 131 AD, and the celebration of the victory of
the adjacent ancient Temple the Greeks over the Persians.
of Olympian Zeus. Cross the For detailed information on
avenue to Dionysiou Areopagitou places of interest, please
Street, the pedestrian pathway visit our website at www.
that will get you to the Acropolis. The lush Zappeion Garden,
breathtakingathens.com
Along the way you will find: the decorated with marble statues.
THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL
Odeon of Herodes Atticus, built PARK, an area of 4.7 km (3
by the roman emperor in 161 as far back as the Neolithic Age. wings and the central entrance miles) located at the foot of
AD for his wife Regilla. Known way used as the official gateway the Acropolis hill extending
under the name of Herodion, Whats on the Acropolis Hill? to the Parthenon. The Propylaea from Dionysiou Areopagitou,
the conservatory hosts cultural was built by the architect Apostolou Pavlou, Adrianou,
performances organised by The first temples appeared in Mnesicles. The Propylaea lead Ermou and Vasilisis Olgas
the Athens Festival (www. 650 BC and were built in honour your way to the Parthenon, includes the following ancient
greekfestival.gr) every summer. of the goddess Athena. During whose ruins still dominate the sites: The Acropolis, Theatre of
Further south, stands the Theatre the Golden Age of Greece, in centre of Acropolis. Parthenon is Dionysus, Theatre of Herodes
of Dionysus, birthplace of the the 5th century BC, the Athenian undoubtedly the most renowned Atticus, Ancient Agora, Temple
ancient drama and site of the statesman Pericles commissioned monument and universal symbol of Olympian Zeus, Philopapou
Great Dionysia, that are religious a team of skillful architects, of Athens, both in the past and Hill or Hill of the Muses,
celebrations in honour of ancient engineers and sculptors to build in the present. Dedicated to Aeropagus Hill, Pnyx, Hill of
god Dionysus. The street to the the monuments we see today. goddess Athena, the Parthenon, the Nymphs (Observatory),
right of Dionysiou Areopagitou The entrance to the Acropolis made of Pentelic marble and of Monument of Lysicrates, The
leads up to the Acropolis, and begins at the Propylaea, a Doric order, was designed by the Roman Agora, Hadrians Arch,
constitutes a site of worship from complex of buildings with two architects Iktinos and Kallikrates Hadrians Library, Tower of the
Winds, Tzizdaraki Mosque, the Unknown Soldier. The first
Temple of Hephaestus and used to be a church transformed
Kerameikos. to the royal palace of King Otto
in the mid 1800 and home of the
Other attractions nearby: Greek Parliament since 1935. The
latter is a sculpture in low relief
The New Acropolis Museum depicting a dying ancient soldier
(15, Dionysiou Areopagitou in full armor.
street, tel: +302109000900, The National Garden,
www.theacropolismuseum.gr) located southeast of the Greek
the church of Agios Dimitrios Parliament, covers an area of 40
Loubardiaris and traditional acres and contains over 7,000
Greek dance performances by trees and 40,000 plants of the
Dora Stratou (www.grdance.org). Greek flora.
While you are here, make a stop Zappeion Megaron: Built
to discover the charm of the in 1850, it is an outstanding
neighbourhoods that make up example of Athenian classicism
the historic centre: Plaka and with columns that create a
the cycladic-styled Anafiotika, for vast, circular, open-air atrium.
traditional Greek food and culture. Today, it serves as an exhibition
Monastiraki for its souvenir and congress hall. The pleasant
shops and flea market. Thissio for Zappeion Garden, decorated
its bars, cafes and restaurants with with marble statues, remains
a great view to the ancient ruins, a favourite place to meet your
Kerameikos and adjacent Gazi friends, enjoy a stroll, or a cup
for more contemporary dining of coffee at its picturesque cafe.
and amusement alternatives. During the summer months,
Follow the signs to the Roman The Roman Agora Athenians rush to visit its open-air
Agora, a large rectangular market cinema.
surrounded by a colonnade, and roof of the temple. But they the world (www.namuseum.gr). Panathenaic - Olympic
built in 132 AD. Stroll the are not. If you were to position Stadium or Kalimarmaro
The New Acropolis Museum,
charming cobbled streets of (which means made of fine
them straight up they would a masterpiece and must-visit
Plaka and browse the ancient, marble). The ancient stadium
converge somewhere above (www.theacropolismuseum.
Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman was built in 330B.C Kalimarmaro
monuments that stand at every the temple, forming a pyramid. gr). It took years to construct was erected for the needs of
corner of the area. If you are ready Even though the columns appear the museum according to the the modern Olympic Games on
to take a break, stop at one of absolutely cylindrical, they are "museum" interior design and the ruins of the ancient stadium
the many traditional tavernas wider at the base and narrower at the "technology". The permanent between the years 1893-1896.
that adorn the quiet streets of the top. This is deliberate so that collections exhibit findings and Lycabettus Hill: At a height of
Plaka. After lunch, head towards the columns appear straight to artefacts from the sacred rock 277 metres (approximately 1,000
Monastiraki Square, one of the the eye. of the Acropolis, while smaller feet), Lycabettus is perhaps the
most picturesque parts of the "vignette" temporary exhibits best spot to get an aerial view
city for must-take-home folklore Places and sites of interest offer insight to the permanent of the city. If climbing does not
souvenirs. collections. The cafe and appeal to you, take the cable
Did you know? The pillars of the National Archaeological museum shops are quite popular car to the top and back down.
Parthenon appear to be perfectly Museum, one of the richest and should be visited. The entrance is on the corner
perpendicular to both the surface collections of ancient Greek art in Greek Parliament and Tomb of of Aristippou and Ploutarchou
streets. stadium (since 1964) that houses
Ancient Agora, Monastiraki: It concerts in the summer months
is befitting that this monument, (www.greekfestival.gr).
the centre of commercial and Get inspired by the citys
business life in ancient times, numerous fascinating museums,
would later give rise to the galleries full with contemporary
buzzing shopping district that and ancient exhibits. Below is a
surrounds it today. Of course, guide to some. More detailed
Monastiraki cannot compare to information may be found online
the milieu of the ancient agora, at www.breathtakingathens.com
but it still continues to inspire
those who live, work and visit Important Museums
the area.
Plaka: The winding pathways Museums operating in Athens
carry thousands of years of can be divided in two categories.
history. Walk amongst the On the one hand, there are the
buildings whose facades significant institutions hosting
are dressed in 19th century world treasures from antiquity.
neoclassical design and These includethe Acropolis
architecture. Notice the Cycladic- Museum, theNational
styled houses in the area known Archaeological Museum,
as Anafiotika, named after the Museum of Cycladic Art,
Anafiotes, who were builders theBenaki Museumand
from Santorini that lived in the the Byzantine Museum.
area when they were building Furthermore, there is a number of
the palace of King Otto. Dine at state, thematic museums such as
one of its numerous restaurants. theMuseum of Contemporary
Explore the ancient monuments, Anafiotika Cycladic styled houses in Plaka, Artand theWar Museum. On
contemporary museums and a neighbour hood below the Acropolis the other hand, there is a large
traditional souvenir shops number of thematic, public or
stretching throughout the area. private museums, with smaller
The Athenian Coastline: on the Flisvos Marina (www. symbolizing the 360 years of collections, covering a variety
Athens is surrounded by pristine flisvosmarina.com) esplanade: a Turkish domination. of fields ranging from history to
beaches, where you can swim for great destination for all ages, at pottery and from railway to music
many months during the year. any time of year. Whats on top of Lycabettus hill? instruments.
Visit a beach in Athens and you Why not POST A PHOTO Abbreviations: NM= nearest metro,
are likely to feel like you are on a of you alongside the tall, If you see a tiny, white church NR = nearest rail, OH = opening hours
Greek island, as you are greeted commanding Presidential on top of one of the highest *Make a contact before visit
with stretches of fine sand, Guards, known as Evzones or points of the city centre, you ACROPOLIS METRO STATION
colourful pebbles and crystal, Tsoliades. Worth the wait in order are probably looking at Agios ARCHAEOLOGICAL
blue waters. The tram and bus to witness the changing of the Georgios (built around 1780), EXHIBITION
take you to nearby, organized guards, a ten-minute ceremonial atop Lycabettus Hill. If you decide Makriyanni Street, NM:Acropolis
beaches (some have water procedure thattakes placeevery to take the pleasant climbing Tel:+302105194717 OH:daily 6am-
sports facilities) in Faliro, Alimos, hour on the hour. up, you will see that there are midnight Admission:Free
Kalamaki, Glyfada, Schinias and Did you know? The foustanela actually two churches (a smaller While all of Athens new metro
Varkiza in less than an hour. Ideal or skirt that is part of their one, Agios Isidoros), a cafe (subway) stations, also act as
for the whole family is a walk uniform consists of 360 pleats, and restaurant, and an open-air mini museums, with classical
and contemporary works of art, Saronic Gulf. Artefacts from
the Acropolis station is a special the Mycenaean and Roman
gem. The archaeological exhibit periods unearthed from the
here is a clear indication of the bottom of the surrounding
modern, yet classical depth sea are housed here, too. The
of contemporary Athens. This museums collection offers
ultra modern metro station insight into Piraeus significance
boasts window displays from throughout Greeces history. Four
the Parthenon and showcases large rooms on the ground floor
findings which were brought to are dedicated to findings from
light during the excavation works
several cemeteries. The top floor
for the construction of the new
contains a multitude of exquisite
Metro.
bronze statues, among them the
ACROPOLIS MUSEUM
15 Dionysiou Areopagitou street
statue of Apollo, two statues of
NM: Acropolis Tel: +302109000900 Artemis and one of Athena and
Website:www.theacropolismuseum. the sole archaic bronze Kouros
gr OH: Tue-Sun 8:00am-8:00pm Last in existence. Do not miss the
admission: 7:30pm, Fri until 10pm. massive reconstruction of the
Admission: 5, reduced ticket 3 mausoleum of Nikeratos and his
For more information, please son Polyxenos.
see above. ATHENS MUNICIPAL
ANCIENT AGORA MUSEUM - GALLERIES (in two locations)
STOA OF ATTALUS 1) Koumoundourou Sq
24, Adrianou Street NM:Monasterion NM:Metaxourgio
NR: Thissio Tel:+302103210185 OH: 2) Leonidou & Myllerou str.,
Summer season 8am-7:30pm / Winter NM:Metaxourgio NR: Omonoia tel:
season 8:30am-2:45pm, Admission: +30 210 5202420 OH: Sun 10am-2pm
4, reduced ticket 2 Admission: Free
The museum of the Ancient Night view to the Lycabettus Hill *from mid September
Agora is housed in the restored The galleries collections feature the
Gallery (Stoa of Attalus) visual works of 3,000 artists, most of
monument of 150 BC. Its exhibits OF KERAMEIKOS urns and grave offerings. The them Greek, with few exceptions,
have direct relation with the 148, Ermou Street NM: Monasterion museums collection includes which are representative of
operation of the democratic NR: Thissio Tel: +302103463552 OH: excellent examples of pottery, the trends, foreign influences
regime of ancient Athens, since Summer season: daily 8am-7:30pm as well. and fruitful discussions that
Agora (that is, the market) was Winter season: daily 8:30am-3pm ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM have marked the journey of
the heart of public life. The Admission: 2, reduced ticket 1 OF PIRAEUS contemporary Greek art.
gallery (Stoa of Attalus) was Recently refurbished, this 31, Charilaou Trikoupi Street, Piraeus NR: ATHENS RAILWAY MUSEUM
revealed in the excavations of museum displays some of the Piraeus Tel: +302104521598 OH: Mon- 4, Siokou Street NM:Sepolia Tel:
the Archaeological Company ancient worlds most significant Sat 8:30am-3pm & Sun 9:30am-2:30pm, +302105126295 Website:www.sfs.
between the years 1859-1902. findings, originating from Admission: 3, reduced ticket 2 gr OH: Tue-Sun 9am-1pm, Wed 5pm-
At the period of 1953-56, it was excavations of the area in which Restored in 1988, this museum 8pm, Mon closed Admission: Free
restored and reconstructed in it is housed. The major findings, contains ancient findings from A fun museum for all ages, the
order to accommodate the objects directly related to the the city of Piraeus, nearby Athens Railway Museum takes
discoveries of the excavations in cemetery, offer profound insight Moschato and Kallithea, as you back to the days of the steam
the Agora. into the burial customs of ancient well as from the coastal areas locomotives of the late 1800s,
ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM Athens. Artefacts include funerary of Attica and the islands of the old-world trams, royal coaches
of the Sultan, old-fashioned cars, Constantinople in 1453 and the
tickets and memorabilia from the subsequent centuries of Frankish
heyday of train transportation. and Ottoman occupation to
Exhibits also simulate the various the outbreak of the struggle for
aspects of the full-scale railway, independence in 1821. From the
such as the function of signals formation of the modern state
and points. Works, photographs of Greece in 1830, up to 1922,
and designs of the modern fleet the year in which the Asia Minor
of railway cars are also displayed. disaster took place. The museums
B & M THEOCHARAKIS annexes include: the Benaki
FOUNDATION FOR THE FINE Museum Pireos, the Islamic Art
ARTS AND MUSIC Collection, the Delta House, the N.
9 Vasilissis Sofias &1 Merlin Street, Hadjikyriakos Ghikas Gallery and
NM:Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3) Tel the Yannis Pappas Studios.
+302103611206 E-mail: BYZANTINE & CHRISTIAN
info@theocharakis-foundation.gr MUSEUM
Website:www.thf.gr OH: Mon, Tues, 22, Vasilissis Sofias Street NM: Megaro
Wed 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-8pm, Mousikis, Tel: +302132139572,
(July-Aug 10am-6pm) Sat-Sun 10am- Email:info@byzantinemuseum.gr
6pm, Admission: Free Website:www.byzantinemuseum.gr
The B & M Theocharakis OH: Tue-Sun 9am-4pm
Foundation is primarily Admission: 4, reduced ticket: 2
concerned with music and Over 25,000 artefacts organized
the fine arts in Greece and into collections that date from
internationally, with a focus on the 3rd to the 20th century. The
the emergence of the Modern artefacts are drawn from the entire
and its continuous development B&M Theocharakis foundation for Greek world and other territories
over the 20th and into the 21st the fine arts and music where the Hellenic spirit flourished.
century. The Foundation aims The number of collections and the
to encourage the public to 9am-2pm, Sat-Sun-holidays 19am- Sofias Avenue NM:Syntagma
quality of the exhibits make the
enter into a wide-ranging and 5pm Admission: 2, reductions (Lines 2 & 3),Tel +302103671000
museum a veritable treasure trove
interdisciplinary dialogue with of Byzantine and post-Byzantine
1.50 Email:benaki@benaki.gr,
music and the visual arts, to art and culture.
The Battleship Averof, the most Website:www.benaki.gr OH:Wed,
promote the work of Greek artists CANELLOPOULOS MUSEUM
significant Greek naval vessel, Fri-Sat 9am-5pm, Thu 9am-midnight,
abroad, to employ every means 12 Theorias Street NM: Acropolis NR:
at its disposal to disseminate played a crucial role in the Sun 9am-3pm, Mon, Tue closed, Monasterion Tel: +302103244447
the content of its activities and history of the Hellenic Navy as Admission: 7, reduced ticket: 5 Email:info@canellopoulosmuseum.
to develop networks facilitating the flagship ship during the This group of collections gr Website:pakanellopoulosfound
collaboration and exchange. Balkan War (1912-1913). It was comprises many distinct ation.org OH: Tue-Sun 8:30am-3pm
BATTLESHIP G. AVEROF commissioned in 1911 and categories totaling in more than Admission: 2, reduced ticket: 1
USEUM remained in active service for 30,000 items, illustrating the A private collection donated
Marina Trokantero, Paleo Faliro a period of 44 years. Today, the character of the Greek world, to the Greek state. Housed in
NR: Faliro, Tel: +302109888211, ship serves as a monument through a spectacular historical a neoclassical building at the
Email:abervf@otenet.gr, Website: commemorating Greeces naval panorama: from antiquity and foot of the Acropolis hill and
www.bsaverof.com, OH:Summer and modern history. the age of Roman domination above the Ancient Agora, the
season: Mon-Fri 9am-2pm, Sat-Sun BENAKI MUSEUM, KOLONAKI to the medieval Byzantine museum houses works of art
10am-5pm /Winter season: Mon-Fri Koumpari Street&Vasilissis period and from the fall of from the Prehistoric Age until the
Byzantine Era. FRISSIRAS MUSEUM
CYCLADIC ART MUSEUM 3 & 7, Monis Asteriou NM: Syntagma
4, Neofytou Douka Street NM: (Lines 2 & 3) Tel: +302103234678
Panepistimio Tel: +302107228321 Email: info@frissirasmuseum.com
Email: museum@cycladic.gr Website: Website: www.frissirasmuseum.
www.cycladic.gr OH: Mon, Wed, Fri, com OH: Wed-Fri: 10am-5pm,
Sat 10am-5pm, Thu 10am-8pm, Sun Sat-Sun 11am-5pm, Mon-Tue closed
11am-5pm Admission: 7, reduced Admission: 6, reduced ticket: 3
ticket 3.50 The permanent collection is
An extensive and unique constituted by 3,000 works of
private collection of painting and sculpture by Greek
prehistoric art from the and other European artists on the
Cycladic islands, as well as, subject of the human form. Other
ancient Greek and Byzantine rotating exhibits of international
art. caliber have made this museum
DESTE FOUNDATION FOR one of the citys finest.
CONTEMPORARY ART GREEK FOLK ART MUSEUM
11, Filellinon & Em. Pappa Streets, 17, Kydathinaion Street NM:
Nea Ionia, NR: Nea Ionia, Tel: Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3) Tel:
+302102758490, Email:info@deste. +302103229031 Email: melt@
gr Website:www.deste.gr, OH: For melt.gr Website:www.melt.gr
information, call +302102758490 OH: Tue-Sun 9am-3pm,
Admission: Free Admission: 2, reduced ticket: 1
The DESTE Foundation A rich collection of Greek folk
for Contemporary Art was art dating from 1650 until today,
established in 1983 by the including works of embroidery,
international art collector Dakis weaving, costumes, masquerades,
Joannou. DESTE is a non-profit Cycladic Art Museum silver- and metal works, pottery,
foundation that organizes wood and stone carvings. The
exhibitions and supports museums annexes include:
cultural realities. The island of Ai-Stratis is located
publications that explore the Tzidaraki Mosque (in its
EPIGRAPHICAL MUSEUM in the northern Aegean Sea and
the relationship between original location), where the V.
1, Tositsa Street NM: Omonoia NR: is inhabited by 220 permanent Kyriazopoulos Collection of Folk
contemporary art and culture. It
aims to broaden the audience Viktoria Tel: +302108232950 Email: residents. For a very long period Pottery is now housed and the
for contemporary art, to enhance ema@culture.gr OH: daily 8:30am- of time, from 1926 to 1967, building at 8 Kyrrestou Str., known
opportunities for young artists 3pm Admission: Free it became one of the many as the Baths of Athena.The
and to establish a dialogue The Epigraphical Museum, exile destinations of Greece. It newest building at 22 Panos Str., in
through an exhibition program founded in 1885, comprises a is estimated that over 100,000 Plaka, features historic items from
that promotes emerging, as well collection of Attic inscriptions and exiles, including men, women various Greek trade professions of
as, established artists. Through a collection of inscriptions from and children, were sent off to the 19th and 20th century.
its exhibition and publishing other districts of Greece. Ai-Stratis during that period. The GREEK MUSICAL
program, the DESTE Foundation EXILE MUSEUM Museum is dedicated to the exile INSTRUMENTS MUSEUM
aspires to act as a host to 31, Agion Asomaton Street NR: experience, which is preserved 1-3, Diogenous Street NM: Syntagma
innovative expressions, and Thissio Tel: +302103213488 through artefacts, documents, art (Lines 2 & 3) NR: Monasterion Tel:
operates as an open space for Email:exilemuseum@gmail.com work, photographs, newspapers, +302103254119 Email:melmoke@
the redefinition of the current Website: www.exile-museum.gr OH: magazines and original oral otenet.gr, Website:www.instruments-
artistic production and emergent Mon-Fri 11am-5pm Admission: Free history records. museum.gr OH: Tue-Sun 10am-2pm,
Wed 12am- 6pm Admission: Free in his or her career, to explain
Over 1,200 Greek popular the various techniques used
musical instruments depict the by them to express their vision,
history and evolution of Greek and to help the visitors connect
music from the 18th century to to both the artists life and their
the present. The musicologist, work. To accomplish this, works
Fivos Anoyanakis, opened the of the artist are on exhibit, as well
museum in 1991 after 50 years of as, their preparatory sketches,
research. Audio capabilities allow drawings, photographs and
the visitor to listen to the music personal items. Audiovisual and
depicted in showcases, including other aids provide complete and
Dionysian rhythms of the zoura detailed information on the life of
and melodies of the mandolin. the artist, each phase of his or her
HELLENIC COSMOS CULTURAL work, and their techniques.
CENTRE JEWELLERY MUSEUM ILIAS
254, Pireos Avenue, Tavros NR: LALAOUNIS
Kallithea Tel: +302122540000 Email: 6, Karyatidon Street NM: Acropolis
hellenic-cosmos@ime.gr Website: Tel: +302109221044 Email:
www.hellenic-cosmos.gr OH: jewelrymuseum@ath.forthnet.
Summer season: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, gr Website:www.lalaounis-
Sun 10am-3pm / Winter season: Mon, jewelrymuseum.gr/en OH: Wed, Thu,
Tue, Thu 9am-2pm, Fri 9am-8pm, Fri, Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 11am-4pm,
Sun 10am-4pm, Sat 11am-4pm, Admission: 5, reduced ticket 4
Admission: 10, reduced ticket: 8 A collection of over 4,000 jewels
Culture, history and sciences and small ornaments dedicated
come to life in front of the to the history and art of jewellery
visitors at the Tholos, the Herakleidon Museum - Experience making by one of Greeces most
grandiose Virtual Reality theatre, in visual Arts renowned jewellery designers,
with shows regarding the Ilias Lalounis.
ancient Agora of Athens or the JEWISH MUSEUM OF GREECE
(from the prehistoric period until admiral Kriezis and, approximately
environment. Do not miss the 39, Nikis Street NM: Syntagma
the present) comes to life in this 200 maps from the 16th to the
interactive exhibitions Meeting (Lines 2 & 3) NR: Monasterion Tel:
museum, which was founded 20th centuries.
at the Ancient Agora and Is There +302103225582 Email: info@
An Answer To Everything? A in 1949 in Piraeus. The collection HERAKLEIDON MUSEUM - jewishmuseum.gr Website:www.
journey to the world of Greek stretches in nine rooms filled with EXPERIENCE IN VISUAL ARTS jewishmuseum.gr OH: Mon-Fri 9am-
mathematics, but also the models of ancient and modern 16, Herakleidon Street NM: 2:30 pm, Sun 10am-2pm, Sat closed
travels through space and time ships, paintings of seascapes Monasterion NR: Thissio Tel: Admission: 6, reduced ticket 3
at Kivotos, wearing the special from the 19th and 20th century +302103461981 Email:info@ More than 7,000 objects,
stereoscopic glasses. Greek painters (Prossalendis, herakleidon-art.gr, Website: www. illustrating 2,300 years of Jewish
HELLENIC MARITIME MUSEUM Volanakis, Hadjis, etc.), as well as herakleidon.com OH: Fri 1pm-9pm, life in Greece, are depicted in
Akti Themistokleous, Piraeus Tel: guns, maps, flags, medals and Sat, Sun 11am-7pm, Admission: 6, thematic exhibits. The museum
+302104516264 Email: nme@ nautical instruments. There is also reduced ticket 4 highlights the history of the
ath.forthnet.gr Website: www. a specialized library with 10,000 The museums mission is to Greek- speaking Romaniotes
hmmuseum.gr OH: Tue-Sat 9am- volumes of rich archival material, introduce visitors to the art of the Jews (whose presence in Greece
2pm Admission: 1.50, reduced including a photographic and artist him/herself, to show how dates back to the 3rd century BC),
ticket: 1 film collection, which includes, the artist has evolved through presents the Holocaust and the
The nautical history of Greece among others, the archives of the various important periods Jewish participation in the Greek
War of Independence. Sat-Sun 10am-3pm, Tue closed
MELINA MERKOURI CULTURAL Admission: 3, reduced ticket: 2
CENTRE The museum depicts the
66, Herakleidon str., NM: Kerameikos history, civilization and life of the
NR: Thissio Tel: +30 210 3452150 OH: newly-founded modern Greek
Tue-Sat. 9am-1pm and 5pm-9pm. State of 1832. Several specialized
Admission: Free collections, memorabilia and
The impressive Poulopoulou old typical living rooms of the
hat factory now houses the centre Athenian 19th century aristocratic
that features two exhibitions. mansions offer a window into the
The permanent exhibition is an rich life of Athens at the time.
impressive representation of an NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL
Athenian neighbourhood of 1900, MUSEUM
with houses, shops and a kafeneio 44, Patision Avenue NM: Omonoia
(coffee house), while the second NR: Viktoria Tel: +302108217724
is the Haridimos Shadow Theatre Email:eam@culture.gr,
puppet collection. The Centre also Website:www.namuseum.gr
hosts various events, concerts and OH: Mon 1:30pm-8:00pm Tue-Sun
seminars. 9am-4:00pm Admission: 7, reduced
ELEFTHERIOS VENIZELOS ticket: 3
MUSEUM The National Archaeological
Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, Eleftherias Museum is a must-visit. One
Park NM: Megaro Mousikis Tel: of the richest collections of
+302107224238 Email: eleveniz@ ancient Greek art in the world,
otenet.gr, OH: Tue-Sat 10am-1pm the exhibits are representative
& 6pm-8pm, Sun 10am-1pm of all the cultures that flourished
Admission: Free Aspect of the National in Greece, from the prehistoric
Library, photographs and personal Archaeological Museum age until the period of Turkish
items of Eleftherios Venizelos occupation. Frescoes from
(1864-1936), the prominent Greek prehistoric Thera and statues
years old. It focuses on the field of of Islamic Art ranks among the
statesman, diplomat and former from the classical period, such as
childrens artistic creativity and is most important in the world.
Prime Minister of Greece, declared the bronze statue of Poseidon,
to be one of the most significant one of the few, worldwide, on the Housed in a wonderful building are some of the museums
politicians in the history of subject. The museums gift shop in the historic centre of Athens, highlights.
modern Greece. has books, postcards, posters, near the ancient cemetery of NATIONAL ART GALLERY
MUSEUM OF GREEK art games and a variety of gifts Kerameikos, it consists of objects - ALEXANDROS SOUTZOS
CHILDRENS ART featuring childrens art inspired from India, Persia, Mesopotamia, MUSEUM
9, Kodrou Street, NM: Acropolis from its collections. the Asia Minor, the Middle East, 1, Michalakopoulou Street NM:
Tel: +302103312621 E-mail: MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART the Arabic world, Egypt, North Evangelismos Tel: +302107235937-8
contact@childernsartmuseum.gr 22, Ag. Asomaton & 12, Dipilou St. Africa, Sicily and Spain. Website:www.nationalgallery.gr OH:
Website:www.childrensartmuseum. NM: Monasterion NR: Thissio Tel: MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF Mon-Sun 9am-3:30pm, Tue closed
gr OH: Tue-Sat 10am-2pm, Sun 11am- +302103251311 Email:islamic_ ATHENS VOUROS - EFTAXIAS Admission: 5, reduced price: 3
2pm, Mon closed Admission: 2 collection@benaki.gr, Website:www. 5 7, Paparigopoulou Street NM: The National Art Gallery is one
The Museum of Greek Childrens benaki.gr OH: Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Panepistimio Tel: +302103231397 of Greeces main art institutions
Art ( M.G.C.A.) exhibits drawings Sun 9am-3pm, Wed 9am-9pm, Email: mveathen@otenet.gr that features paintings from
and three-dimensional artwork Admission: 5, reduced ticket: 3 Website:www.athenscitymuseum. some of Greeces and Europes
made by children aged 4 to 14 The Benaki Museums collection gr OH: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 9am-4pm, famous artists of the 19th and
20th centuries. Emphasis is buildings in Greece.
given to well-known Greek POSTAL & PHILATELIC
contemporary artists, such as MUSEUM
Yannis Tsarouchis, Domenikos 5, Stadiou square & Fokianou
Theotokopoulos (or El Greco), Street NM: Syntagma (Lines
Theodoros Vrizakis, Nikolaos 2 & 3), Tel: +302107519066
Kounelakis, Nikiphoros Lytras, Email:postmuseum@elta-net.gr
Konstantinos Parthenis, Website: www.postalmuseum.gr
Konstantinos Maleas, Yannis OH: Mon-Fri 8am-2pm
Moralis and others. Admission: Free
NATIONAL HISTORICAL The history of the postal services
MUSEUM and philatelic bureaus. The
13, Stadiou Avenue, NM: collection includes postboxes,
Panepistimio Tel: +302103237617 safes, postal stamp machines,
Email: info@nhmuseum.gr seals, printing machines, bags
Website:www.nhmuseum.gr OH: and horns used by the postmen
Tue-Sun 9am-2pm, Admission: 3, and other items of the Postal,
reduced ticket: 1.50 Telegraph and Telephone
Relics and rare historical archives Services. The museum has a
and documents relating to special date stamping machine
modern Greek history, such as bearing the representation of the
weapons used by revolutionaries head of god Hermes.
that fought the Greek War of RE MUSEUM & STUDY
Independence can be seen CENTRE OF THE GREEK
here. It is the oldest museum THEATRE
of its kind and it includes rich 50, Akadimias Avenue NM:
collections that highlight the National Museum of Panepistimio Tel: +302103637453
most representative phases of Contemporary Art (EMST) Email:info@theatremuseum.gr,
Neo-Hellenism, from the fall of Website:www.theatremuseum.gr
Constantinople (15th century) back to 1829, is one of the few OH: Mon-Fri 10am-3pm, Sun 10am-
promote and present advanced
until the present. The museum 1pm Admission: Free
and experimental artistic of its kind in the world and the
also functions as a research The library stores 25,000 volumes
installations, to enhance the sole in the Balkans. It provides
centre of modern Greek history. of Greek and foreign books on
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF aesthetic and artistic cultivation continuous educational support theatre. Memorabilia of theatrical
CONTEMPORARY ART (EMST) of the people and to forge to Hellenism in the sectors of life, stage costumes, numerous
17-19, Vas. Georgiou and Rigilis scientific research on subjects numismatics, history and history photographs, models of stage
street NM: Evangelismos Tel: +30 210 of contemporary art history and of art. The collection comprises settings, personal items of leading
9242111-3, Email:protocol@emst. theory. approximately 6,000 coins, actors are all exhibited in the
gr, Website:www.emst.gr OH: Tue- NUMISMATIC MUSEUM covering the ancient Greek museum. The theatrical archives
Sun 11am-7pm, Thu 11am-10pm, 12, Panepistimiou Avenue NM: world, the Roman and Byzantine include 18th and 19th century
Admission: 3, reduced ticket: 1.5 Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3), Tel: periods, western Medieval times manuscripts, programmes and
TheNational Museum of +302103632057, Email: protocol@ and modern times. The building posters.
Contemporary Art (EMST) nm.culture.gr, Website:www.nma.gr that houses the museum, Iliou THE HELLENIC CHILDRENS
was founded in 1997. It OH: Tue-Sun 8:00am-3pm, Admission: Melathron, is to be appreciated MUSEUM
aims to create collections of 3, Reduced ticket: 2 for its design by architect Ernst 14, Kydathinaion Street NM:
contemporary Greek and The Numismatic Museum of Ziller, who is credited with Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3), NR:
international works of art, to Athens, with a history dating designing over 500 exquisite Monasterion Tel: +302103312995,
Email: info@hcm.gr, Website: www.
hcm.gr OH: Tue-Fri 10am-2pm, Sat-
Sun 10am-3pm, Admission: Free Visit with your children!
The museum is dedicated
to children and is housed in THE MUSEUM OF GREEK
an old mansion. Its aim is to CHILDRENS ART (www.
enhance learning through play childrensartmuseum.gr) and
and direct contact with various THE HELLENIC CHILDRENS
objects. The hands-on displays MUSEUM (www.hcm.gr). Kids can
encourage children to explore, experience museum hopping,
experiment, think and create. too! Both offer a different aspect
Among the displays, there is an of interactive art seen through
exhibit called "Hello Pythagoras", the eyes of a child. The former
which engages children in boasts an exhibition of paintings
logic and geometry games, and works of art made by children
while similar initiatives exist for and the latter a fun hands-on
cooking, recycling, money, art approach to Greek childrens
and the family. Of course, there culture.
are lots of toys and games, as SPATHARIO MUSEUM OF
well as, computers here. A series SHADOW PUPPET THEATRE
of activities, such as, theatrical (www.karagiozismuseum.gr):
games, cooking lessons and Puppet shows are a favourite
seasonal preparations are childrens pastime. Shadow
organized every weekend. The theatre is a unique puppet
museum is ideal for children up to art form with a long history in
12 years old. Greece and Turkey. A visit in the
WAR MUSEUM museum sheds light on the story
Vasilisis Sofias Ave. & Rizari St., NM: The Museum of Greek childrens art of shadow theatre and the set of
Evangelismos Tel: +30210-7252974 characters and instruments used
Email: info@warmuseum.gr, to narrate it.
Do you like speed? At the opportunity to participate in an GOULANDRIS NATURAL
Website:www.warmuseum.gr OH:
Tue-Sun 9am-2pm, Admission: 2
Athenian Capitol complex, a interactive road safety game. Fun HISTORY MUSEUM AND GAIA
Collection of weapons and multi-activity centre, strategically for the whole family that is not to CENTRE (www.gnhm.gr): Reptiles,
historic items document the located between the National be missed! insects, and science-oriented
struggles for freedom of the Archaeological Museum and Like! Onassis Cultural Centre interactive exhibits always
Greek nation from ancient times Viktoria station, you can find (www.sgt.gr). The newest cultural enchant children! In addition, the
to the present days. one of the most fascinating car destination of Athens, it presents museums extensive research on
HELLENIC MOTOR MUSEUM collections in the world, with a multitude of events from dance, the flora, fauna and eco-system
3rd September, 33-35 Ioulianou & the oldest vehicle on display theatre, music and visual arts, of Greece makes it a must-see
Patission str., NM: Omonia NR: Viktoria being a 1895 Hungarian-made to literature. The centre pays destination for the entire family.
Tel: +302108816187 Email: info@ fire engine! Afterwards, you can emphasis on contemporary
hellenicmotormuseum.gr, Website: try your racing skills in the F1 cultural expression, supporting Education and fun
www.hellenicmotormuseum.gr OH: simulator, have a pit stop at the Greek artists, cultivating
Tue-Sat: noon-9pm, Sun: 11am-6pm homonymous cafe and enjoy the international collaborations The New Digital Planetariumof
Admission: adults 8, reduced ticket collectible memorabilia in the and educating people of all the Eugenides Foundation
5, Road Safety Program (for children museum store, while younger ages through life-long learning (www.eugenfound.edu.gr)
6-12 years old) 6 visitors (6-12 years old) have the programmes. is one of the largest, state-of-
the-art digital planetariums in the Tetraconch (in the garden
the world. It offers headsets of Hadrians Library); Tzizdaraki
in English for visitors and has Mosque (Monastiraki Square).
several programmes for adults
and children (ages 9 and up). Custom bus tours
Interactive and digitally-advanced
technology explains Greek
Take a tour with the Athens
culture at the Hellenic Cosmos
Cultural Centre (www.ime.gr) of Hop On-Hop Off double decker
the Foundation of the Hellenic bus (www.city-sightseeing.
Worldin a series of virtual reality com and www.citysightseeing.
programs that take all family gr), (www.athens-citytour.
members back to ancient Greece com). It encompasses most of
just with a touch of a button! Athens top sights, offering a
pre-recorded commentary in
Architectural Miracles: Explore several languages. Contact in
some of the citys best: advance for handicap equipped
bus schedules. There are also nice
The Academy of Athens, the passenger city trains that offer
National and Kapodistrian tours to the historic centre:Athens
University of Athens and Sightseeing with the Happy Train
the National Library on (www.athenshappytrain.com)
Panepistimou Avenue form and Sunshine Express (www.
the neoclassical trilogy, a truly
sunshine-express.gr).
beautiful stretch of 19th century
buildings. The abovementioned The New Digital Planetariumof the
cluster was built in 1887, Eugenides Foundation is one Libraries
designed by Theophilus Hansen of the largest, state-of-the-art
and supervised by Ernst Ziller. digital planetariums in the world. Gennadius Library (54, Souidias
The Numismatic Museum- str. Kolonaki, tel: +30 210 7210536,
Iliou Melathron, formerly the www.ascsa.edu.gr): Private
house of German archaeologist Monum ents (Agia Dinami), Mitropoleos Street. collection of over 27,000 rare
Heinrich Schliemann, built by volumes about Greece.
Athens has many architecturally Other religious sites Ioanniou Cultural Centre
the famous architect of the time,
impressive churches and Library (59, Panormou str., tel:
Ernst Ziller (1837-1923). Holocaust Memorial near the
monasteries, some hidden, but all +30 210 6983905): The centres
The City of Athens Beth Shalom Synagogue (5,
beautiful and spiritual.
Technopolis: Housed in Melidoni Str., Kerameikos); The collections include over 7,000
The Monastery of Kaisariani on
a former gasworks industrial Anglican Church (Filellinon Str. titles covering the arts and
Hymettus Hill,
plant, this vast area for events, and Amalias Ave.); The Russian sciences.
The Monastery of Dafni,
concerts and exhibitions has Church (Church of the Saviour Athens Municipal Library (2,
Athens Cathedral, Mitropoleos
contributed to the expansion Lykodemos, Filellinon Str. and Domokou str., Larissa railway
Street,
and development of the area it Agios Dionysius, Skoufa Street, Amalias Ave); The Catholic station, tel: +30 210 8847561):
inhabits, known as Gazi (Greek Kolonaki, Church of St. Dionysius A large newspaper and
for gas). Panaghia Kapnikarea, Ermou (Panepistimou Ave. and Omirou photographic archive of Athens
Street, Str.); Agia Marina (Hill of the with more than 55,000 titles of
Interesting Religious The Church of the Holy Power Nymphs, Thissio); The Church of books.
threedaysinathens
Do you only have a weekend to explore the capital of Greece?
No need to worry! Spending three full days in Athens is a great
way to begin feeling part of the city. The following recommen-
dations provide you with useful tips on how to experience the
best of Athens.
threedaysinathens
Discover the Museum of Greek Childrens
Acropolis and
Art.
Plaka is one of the liveliest places
the Historic Centre

to eat and enjoy a traditional
Greek meal or meze (a selection
of small dishes) and an aperitif
Day 1
such as ouzo. Stop at one of
the many little restaurants and
tavernas. After lunch, head
towards Monastiraki and
We recommend that you Thissio for must-take-home
dedicate your first day exploring souvenirs, exclusive shopping
- but in a little more detailed and even more sightseeing. Tour
way during the day the the city via its double-decker
historic city centre (namely the buses or hop-on-hop-off trains
Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki that will take you from Syntagma
and Thisio) and save Psiri Square to and through the
and Gazi for your evening historic city centre.
explorations. The historic centre is filled
with several small interesting
museums and galleries. Check
Morning (8:00 12:00) the Whats On section for
Start by visiting the Acropolis current exhibitions and the
and the Parthenon. To get there, complete list of museums
take Dionysiou Areopagitou and galleries at www.
Street, whose pedestrian precint breathtakingathens.com
starts opposite Hadrians Arch
and the Ancient Temple of Midday (12:00)
Olympian Zeus, admire the The Parthenon, at Acropolis hill. Do not miss a walk
sights that greet you on your way at Anafiotika area, just down the Hill. One metro stop or a few
to Propylaea, that is, the main minutes walk away is Syntagma
entrance of Acropolis with its its building design (see below). soft drink and continue walking Square, the heart of the city.
main attraction, the Parthenon. You can try a light meal or a southeast to the souvenir shops Across the street, there is the
Stroll around the great cup of coffee at the museums in Monastiraki, the famous Greek Parliament and the
archaeological site, a 4.7 km (3 restaurant while admiring Athenian flea market. Explore the Tomb of the Uknown Soldier.
mile) oasis encompassing some the breathtaking view of the enchanting cobbled streets of Take a photograph alongside
of the worlds most significant Acropolis surrounding you. Plaka and the cycladic-style area one of the rigorously selected
ancient monuments such as of Anafiotika. Wander across Presidential Guards (evzones
the Theatre of Dionysus, the the ancient Roman, Byzantine or tsoliades) that flank the
Odeon of Herodes Atticus and Noon & Afternoon (12:00 15:00) and Ottoman remnants such as monument. In this area there
the Ancient Agora. the Ancient Agora and Roman are many museums to choose
Next stop should be the New Discover some of the citys most Agora. from: The Museum of Cycladic
Acropolis Museum (www. historic neighbourhoods. You are If you have children travelling Art (www.cycladic.gr), Benaki
theacropolismuseum.gr), a must- now in the Makriyianni district. with you, two worth visiting Museum (www.benaki.gr)
see attraction not only for its Head north towards Thisio and destinations are The Hellenic or the War Museum (www.
collection of artefacts, but also for Prisi, enjoy a cup of coffee or a Childrens Museum and The warmuseum.gr) which are all in
threedaysinathens
Day 2
close proximity. Furthermore,
there is the new B&M
Theocharakis Foundation for
the Fine Arts & Music (www.thf.
gr). What is more, you may prefer Discover Vibrant
to visit the ancient Olympic Downtown Athens
Panathenaic Stadium (www.
panathenaicstadium. gr). Our second days itinerary is a
You can get there if you walk delightful pot-pouri of things
through the National Garden, to see and do in the centre of
which used to form part of Athens. The region between
the Palaces royal gardens and Syntagma Square and Vass.
Zappeion (www.zappeion.gr), Sofias avenue may be referred
located next to the Parliament to as the museum area since
building. it is home to several of the
As for the fashion lovers, visit the citys finest museums, all within
shops along Panepistimiou and
walking distance from one
Ermou streets off to Syntagma
another. The Athens open-top
Square or Voukourestiou
sightseeing buses are the best
Street towards Kolonaki.
Need a rest? Head to Valaoritou option to make the most of
Street, Milioni Street or the
streets around Syntagma
(Voulis, Lekka, Kolokotroni
Street) for a cup of coffee and
people watching.
The ancient Olympic - Panathenaic Stadium.

Evening (16:00 21:00)
Upon returning to the centre,
enjoy a dinner and or cocktail
ideally, with a view to the Kolokotroni street and Karitsi
Acropolis, at one of the city square.
centres many restaurants in
Plaka, Psiri, Thissio, Koukaki Late night (after 23:00)
or Gazi. Popular destination
streets for dinner in Gazi
Night owls will discover why
include Konstantinoupoleos,
Athens is a city that never
The New Acropolis Museum (www.theacropolismuseum.gr)
Voutadon and Triptolemou is considered to be an architectural masterpiece. The museums collections are exhibited in
streets, while in Psiri you will sleeps! In the winter, choose three levels and the spectacular usage of glass allows for the natural lighting of the area. The
find the most trendy bars among the bars and clubs museum hosts a rich permanent collection of imposing sculptures and artefacts found at
and restaurants in Sarri and of Psiri, Gazi or Kolonaki. In the excavations of Acropolis throughout the years. Smaller vignette exhibitions, video instal-
Lepeniotou Streets. A pre- or the summer go for one of the lations and the archaeologists of the museum themselves provide additional insight into
after-dinner cocktail is also Athenian Coastline clubs, the visitors understanding of the permanent exhibits and life in the ancient Sacred Rock of
recommended at one of the stretching down from Paleo Acropolis, in general. Do not forget to look directly at the Acropolis and enjoy the panoramic
bars around Syntagma, in Faliro to Varkiza. view of Athens through the museums glass structure!
threedaysinathens
your museum hopping day. Hilton, Mets and Pagrati, each
Take the day to explore the with its own great variety of bars,
museums, shops, department restaurants and tavernas.
stores and restaurants of the city. In the afternoon, save some
Start with a morning tour of time to explore the citys shops
The National Archaeological and department stores. The
Museum (www.namuseum. starting point will be once
gr) showcasing one of the again Syntagma Square, the
largest collections of ancient hub of the city. Just around
Greek artefacts in the world. the corner, you will find Attica
When you return to Syntagma department store, housed in a
Square, take a few moments historic building: with more than
to wander around the Athens 360 shops in a shop and 860
tube station museum, one different brand names, Attica
of the many Athens Metro can cover all individuals needs.
museums in motion that Continue shopping in the chic
feature both ancient and neighbourhood of Kolonaki,
modern art. Four stations in the at the foot of Lycabettus
historic center display mosaics Hill, and its shop-filled streets:
and replicas of some of the Skoufa, Tsakalof, Haritos and
thousands of archaeological Patriarchou Ioakim.
findings, discovered during the Before stopping in one of the
tube's construction. The above many cafes and restaurants,
area and the streets extending take a moment to admire the
from its major square offer a lot beautiful iconography inside the
to the modern visitor. Around Catholic church of St. Dionysius
the square, there are several of the Areopagite. Give a twist
the Athenian historic buildings, to your evening by watching
Take a photograph with the Presidential Guards in front of the Greek
which house well-known hotels the sunset atop Lycabettus
Parliament or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
such as: The Grande Bretagne Hill (a cable car is available to
and King George. Syntagma help you with the trekking up)
Cylcadic Art are nearby, while gr), great for stamp collectors, and finish off with a gourmet
Square is also the hub where
both of them host wonderful and, just a bit further northwest or casual dinner at one of the
several well-known Athenian
streets and avenues start and cafes. Stroll around Zappeion on Vassileos Georgiou B many restaurants of the area.
intersect. Take a photograph with and exit onto Vassileos avenue is the National Museum Alternative option, especially
the Presidential Guards in front Konstantinou Avenue to of Contemporary Art (www. in the summer: If the beach
of the Greek Parliament or the visit the ancient Panathenaic emst.gr) and seaside bar motif is more
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Olympic Stadium also known A few bus stops north is another of your style, choose to spend
Then, take a walk through the as Kallimarmaro (in Greek, of Athens great museums, The the afternoon in the Athenian
green oasis of the National meaning made of the finest National Gallery Alexandros coastline.
Garden and enjoy a coffee at marble), which was the site Soutzos Museum (www. P.S.! When in Athens .... Like
the Zappeion Mansion with of the first modern Olympic nationalgallery.gr). From many natives do, stop at one of
its lush vegetation. Magnificent Games in 1896. Juxtaposed the gallery, you may walk the many outdoor vendors to buy
museums, like the Benaki is the Postal and Philatelic over to three local Athenian a koulouri, a type of soft wreath-
Museum and the Museum of Museum (www.postalmuseum. neighbourhoods, namely, shaped sesame bread stick.
threedaysinathens
Day 3
numerous designer stores
and places to eat that offer
quality for a pleasurable stroll.
Stop in Glyfada any time of
Third day is the charm: a day
the day or night and you will
in the Athenian Coastline.
be impressed by the number
Once you have seen how close of good-looking people of all
the coast is to the centre of ages that live, work and play
Athens, you may regret not there. This neighborhood is
having visited it first. Buses, home to the 18-hole Glyfada
trams and taxis will get you to
the nearest stop in less than 30 Golf Club of Athens (www.
minutes. If the weather is warm, ggca.gr). If shopping is not
pack your swimming suit, hat your priority and you would
and sunglasses, as you might prefer to prolong your coastal
be tempted to take a dip in one sightseeing journey, head back
of the many beaches that await
you! to Poseidon Avenue and
Dress casually so as to have the hope on the E22 Express Bus
option to spend the evening serving the coastal districts of
here, on Athens s breathtaking Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza,
and vibrant south shore. First Anavissos, Lagonissi,
stop is the neighbourhood
of Paleo Faliro, home to two Saronida. Another cluster
of the must-visits : namely of delightful seaside food
the Eugenides Foundation establishments can be found
Planetarium and Flisvos in each of the aforementioned
Marina. The planetarium is
areas. For a fascinating coastal
accessible by bus or taxi, while
the Flisvos Marina by tram, as drive, plan ahead and arrange
well (If you want to visit both a day trip to Cape Sounion
venues take the bus to the with the Temple of Poseidon
Planetarium and then go to the on site. For your evening
marina. Then hop on the tram to
continue your ride further south entertainment choose to stay
along the coast.) at the coast and let yourself
Destinations with cafes and be driven away by the many
restaurants that can be enjoyed tropically-designed seaside
all year-round include: Alimos cafes, clubs and restaurants, or
Marina, Flisvos Park, Edem,
Kalamaki. After getting a feel head back to the centre and
for the urban coastal living indlude the buzzing Athenian
in Athens, get back on the night.
tram and head to the popular Tip: Summer or winter,
municipality of Glyfada. the Athenian sun can be
The alter ego of downtown
Kolonaki, Glyfada offers a quite strong. Always wear
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus,
luxurious shopping experience. sunglasses, a hat and
is also a music venue.
Wide pedestrian sidewalks with sunscreen.
lifestyleavibrantcity
What & where to eat
Experience Athens by getting a
taste of its culinary culture. The
No matter how long you stay in Athens, the time is never enough to city and its municipalities offer a
discover the numerous pleasures the city offers. Well-known world- cornucopia of choices for every
wide for its entertaining nightlife, Athens invites you to discover its bars, palate and budget, from Michelin
nightclubs, restaurants and cafes. Familiarize yourself with the citys star restaurants to underground
many shopping districts and do not forget to get information on the eating places and charismatic
citys cultural life. urban street vendors. Hundreds
of excellent restaurants and chefs
await to impress. Rooftop bars
compete with some of the most
renowned clubs of the world. Can
they claim a view of the Acropolis?
Here is a quick guide to taste
Athens:
Yes, eat that souvlaki ap ola (with
everything in it). However, why not
try some grilled sardeles (sardines)
or dakos, a Cretan salad with rusks
of barley, feta cheese and tomato,
or even a whole grilled fish,
octopus or calamari? Taste some
plain boiled greens (horta) with
just a touch of lemon and olive oil.
It is a laconic dish, yet so delicious
and full of vitamins!
TOP 10 WAYS TO TASTE ATHENS
Koulouri (sesame-topped bread
twist).
Tiropita (cheese pie) and/or
Spanakopita (spinach pie).
Products with Mastiha (healthy
resin from the island of Chios).
Kalamboki (roasted corn on the
cob), a summer treat, and kastana
(chestnuts) a winter specialty on
the cob.
Various kinds of cheese (Graviera,
Kefalotiri, Feta, Anthotiro,
Mizithra), pastourma (smoked
meat) and fish, found at many
specialty markets in downtown
Athens and Piraeus.
Greek krasi (wine) available at the Acropolis
local supermarkets, mini- Indulge in a meal or a cocktail
markets, cavas and vineyards in at one of Athens many rooftop
Koropi and Spata (areas near venues. Summer or winter, they
the airport). offer a spectacular view and
Loukoumades (fried donut-like some of them are so close to
sweets dipped in honey) and Acropolis that you can practically
loukoumia, a jelly-like, sugar touch the Parthenon.
coated sweet in various flavours.
A guide to dining by
Extra-virgin olive oil varieties
neighbourhood:
(from Crete, Messinia, Lakonia).
Kolonaki for stylish eateries,
Go for a meze and try some
bistros, grills, international cuisine,
ouzo and rakomelo (a potent
cafes, people watching / Style
alcoholic drink made with the
tip: casual chic, comfortable
Cretan spirit raki and honey) and
Syntagma area for hotel dining
then have an afternoon siesta.
and after-work yuppie clubs/
Coffee with parea! Athenians,
Style tip: professional, urban
like most Europeans, love their
hip, comfortable Historic
coffee routine and they usually
centre & neighbouring areas
enjoy drinking it outdoors with a
for traditional tavernas with
group of friends (parea). Popular
bouzouki and fine Greek-cuisine
coffee hangouts are in the
dining with beautiful outdoor
towns plateia (central square)
gardens and no bouzouki / Style
or along the charming side
tip: casual chic Monastiraki
streets of Plaka, Thissio and
for meze, ouzeri, souvlaki /
Syntagma.
Style tip: comfortable Gazi
Also: Visit a vegetable and fruit Koulouri , a sesame-topped bread twist, for multicultural contemporary
market or laiki (an outdoor found in practically every corner. cuisine and bars to match/ Style
market held religiously once a
tip: cool Northern suburbs
week in every neighbourhood).
Thrakomakedones, Likovrisi, Karageorgi Servias. for international food and
Tasty neighbourhoods to Stamata, Vlahika in Vari, Fish lovers opt for restaurants in continental dining / Style tip:
explore: Kalivia (after the airport) and the coastal towns of Glyfada, casual chic
Psiri, Plaka, Monastiraki and towards Thiva, in the village of Varkiza, Sounio, Lavrio, Athens coastline and Piraeus
Piraeus for traditional Greek Vilia. Mikrolimano and Pasalimani, for fish, continental dining,
tavernas. the latter two in Piraeus. seaside bars and restaurants /
Vegetarians will be happy
Kolonaki, Koukaki, Petralona, Style tip: casual, summer chic,
Gazi for white tablecloth to know that many Greek The Museum cafe comfortable.
tavernas and Greek-inspired chic dishes are meat-free. When Dining at a museum cafe has For a gastronomic tour of
restaurants. ordering, try plates known as become very popular. Their chic Athens, past and present, head
Meat lovers can indulge ladera, that are dishes made interiors and impressive menus to Varvakeios Agora and
in restaurants found in with vegetables, beans, stuffed have put many of them on the Evripidou Street. Amidst the
the suburbs of Athens: at tomatoes and lentils. map for dining. Put it on your list butcher and fresh fishmongers
Biftekoupoli (literally city Satisfy your sweet tooth at the of things to do while visiting your stalls, one can find merchants
of the beef patty) in Glyfada, many sweet and chocolate favourite museum. selling fruits, vegetables, nuts,
Paleo Faliro, Varibombi, shops along Voulis Street and Rooftop dining with a view to dried fruit, cheese and even small
houseware items. Open daily Constitution Square
except Sundays. (Syntagma): Best
Neighbourhood for Chocolates
Greek supermarkets
Often a visit to any of the popular and Diamonds. Affordable
Athenian supermarket chains is Fashion and Books/ Main
all one needs in order to see the Shopping Streets: Stadiou
range of products available to and Panepistimiou Avenues,
the Greek consumer. Also: The Ermou, the streets south of
districts of Kolonaki, Kifissia and the square (Perikleous, Eolou,
Nea Erythrea boast a variety of Mitropoleos), Karageorgi
fine gourmet food shops offering Servias and the streets towards
Greek and international carefully- Kolokotroni Street.
selected items. Glyfada: Best Neighbourhood for
easy Wide-sidewalk shopping
in Athens/Main shopping streets:
Shop, browse, shop, shop Ioannou Metaxa and the streets
around Esperidon Square,
Ancient and-yet-so- Zisimopoulou Street and
modern Athens provides Kyprou.
an extraordinary shopping Kifissia: Best Neighbourhood for
experience. Do not just Opulent Items/Main Shopping
constrict yourselves to Streets: Kassaveti, Levidou and
the truly amazing options Kyriazi. Take time out to indulge
for clothing, shoes, bags, in the luxurious pastry shops and
souvenirs, jewellery, gourmet fun brasserie-style restaurants
food and beauty products. Get Summer or winter roof top dinning offers
inspired by just some of the a spectacular view
suggestions mentioned here
and then set out to discover Kifissia
the Athenian shopping Iphestou, Monastiraki
paradise! Pentelis, Chalandri
10 Best Shopping Streets in Panepistimiou, Syntagma
Athens: Shops at Athens International
Athens is a relatively small city Airport.
with a big personality! Put your Kolonaki, Best Neighbourhood
internal GPS on shopping mode for fashion lovers/Main shopping
and go to any of the following streets: Voukourestiou, Skoufa,
streets to enjoy a fabulous Tsakalof, Patriarchou Ioakeim,
shopping experience. Haritos and Anagnostopoulou.
Ermou, Syntagma Historic Centre: Best
Voukourestiou, Kolonaki Neighbourhood for Traditional
Skoufa, Kolonaki and Contemporary Souvenirs,
Tsakalof, Kolonaki Greek and Popular art/ Main
Ioannou Metaxa, Glyfada shopping areas: Monastiraki,
Kassaveti, Levidou & Kolokotroni, Plaka, Psiri, Syntagma.
in nearby Kefalari and Nea at many leading bookstores
Erythrea. including Papasotiriou at Athens
International Airport (www.
Plus: papasotiriou.gr).
Neo Psyhico: The top brands Arty objects from the citys
in fashion and cosmetics are many Museum shops.
all gathered here as are the Designer Komboloi (worry
after-shopping mandatory list beads).
of cafeterias and restaurants to Greek popular Music CDs and
check. DVDs.
Outlet designer shopping The Greek Post office (www.
There are several stock houses elta.gr) at Syntagma Square offers
to check out in Athens for a selection of commemorative
discounts on designer labels. items.
Many are found in the district Leisure
of Nea Smyrni on Eleftherios Experience Athens like an
Venizelos Street (accesible Athenian does by taking
by tram) and others in fashion- part in some of the following
oriented, central Kolonaki, as leisure activities:
well as, in Spata and close to the Go to the movies! Outdoors!
Athens International Airport. Think drive-in movie without
the car and complete with
Flea Markets and Bazaars side tables for your snack and
beverage. The outdoor movie
Farmers Markets experience or therino cinema
For an earthy, organic Greek At Syntagma Square the flower in Athens, during the summer
experience, spend some time shops offer a unique experience months, is a must on your to-do-
at the Greek farmers markets, list. The movies, always the most
known as laiki agora. A cultural especially on Sundays, is weekend of December. current titles, are played in their
staple in Athenian daily life, Monastiraki Flea Market when native languages with Greek
the laiki is an outdoor market additional vendors exhibit their Ideas for Chic Greek subtitles.
that spans several blocks. It is wares on Avissinias Square. Souvenirs: Take in a classical
held on a designated day and Moreover, on the southern coast Sandals and other leather performance at The Athens
designated street once a week. of Piraeus, another large market items from the myriad of shops in Concert Hall (www.megaron.
Most neighbourhoods in Athens with vendors takes place on Monastiraki and Plaka. gr). Every year renowned artists
have one, and the days vary. Sundays, on Alepidou Street. Cool t-shirts, mugs and and composers gather to
Ask any local resident, for more Christmas Bazaars are also held other exclusively-designed delight audiences and visitors
information on when laiki takes throughout the city during the Breathtaking Athens Products of Athens. The concert hall,
place in your area. holiday season. Popular ones at Athens International Airport known for its luxurious interior
The largest market in Athens is are usually held at the Attiko (AIA) and in the centre, at our and modern exterior design,
the Varvakeios Agora, located Metro Syntagma Station and info point located at Dion. definitely delivers the feeling
near the Ancient Agora in the Technopolis in Gazi. An annual Areopagitou str & Vassilissis and experience of a night out
Historic Centre, immediately holiday shopping block party Amalias avenue. at the opera, ballet, theatre!
following Evripidou Street. A event can be found on Haritos Beautifully illustrated Tee off in Athens! Engage
must-visit shopping destination, street in Kolonaki the second coffee-table books are available in a relaxing game of golf at
Glyfada Golf Course (+30) Poseidon avenue, Zisimopoulou,
210 8946459, (www.ggca. Esperidon Square, G. Lambraki.
gr) in the nearby coastal Kifissia older, sophisticated
town of Glyfada. The course chic/various Kolonaki all ages,
is an 18 hole, par 72 course professionals, contemporary,
and is designed by Donald chic/Haritos, Skoufa, Ploutarchou,
Harradine. Loukianou, Milioni, Valaoritou
Casinos: There are two Plaka-Monastitaki nice mix of
casinos relatively close to tourists, locals, all ages/Adrianou,
Athens where you can test Iraklidon, Agion Asomaton
your lucky day: on Mt. Parnitha Square Piraeus for sea lovers,
and in Loutraki. shipping professionals, locals,
Facebook and Twitter all ages/Akti Themistokleous
friendly: Free wi-fi access Psiri mix of tourists and locals, all
can be found at many of ages/various Syntagma old-
the coffee-chain venues, fashioned clubs, classy hotel bars,
malls and bookstores new hip meeting places, urban
throughout the city. Athens professionals, contemporary, all
International Airport ages/Voulis, Syntagma Square,
Eleftherios Venizelos Lekka, Anthimou Gazi Voula-
provides free access for a Vouliagmeni tropical, seaside
limited period of time. Several cafes, restaurants and clubs/chic,
regions in Athens, offer contemporary, for sea lovers/
free wi-fi access including Leoforos Karamanli (Voula), Lemos
Syntagma, Technopolis in Vouliagmenis.
Gazi, Thissio, Kotzia square. The soul of Athenian Nightlife
For a location near you, check nights beats in Gazi ITS ALL GREEK TO ME!
www.free-wifi.gr. FROM OPA TO HIP HOP ATHENS
Bicycle Riding Although IS THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS
Athens boasts a traffic-busy Friday evening, that last 4-6 Neighbourhood/Style/Popular Gazi This area, surrounding the
centre, it also has surrounding hours and are free of charge! Streets old Athens gasworks factory,
hills and coastal promenades Many Athenians take their bikes Athens Coastline modern bars know today as Technopolis and
that do lend themselves to to enjoy rides outside the city, and restaurants/for sea lovers, trademarked by the brilliantly-lit
enjoying a bike ride. Mountain either along the southern or older crowd. Take the coastal road tower, is nightlife central.
biking is also possible on eastern coast of Attica or even Poseidon Avenue, that begins at Kolonaki It is a classic dining and
Mount Parnitha and Mount to the marinas and parks. Paleo Faliro and continues up to entertainment destination for the
Hymettus, where several Tip! Prefer the lap of pool the tip of the Athenian coastline citys working professionals.
tracks exist. Cycling events luxury! Several of Athens hotel (the tram takes you up to Voula). Plaka Monastiraki Do not
are sometimes organised by pools come to your a la carte Gazi hip, trendy, bars, clubs have big dance clubs and bars,
independent groups in the pool visit rescue. Contact your and restaurants/for all ages, gay but offer lively, traditional places
city centre. At the (available favourite hotel and ask for & lesbian/Konstantinoupoleos, to enjoy Greek culture all year-
only in Greek) site www. information and daily charges. Triptolemou, Voutadon, Iera round.
polidates.gr you can find Odos Glyfada all-day cafeterias, Psiri Venues with good food
information about 30-60 km
Bars & clubs fast-food chains, casual chic and an overall night crawl
bike tours organised every Quick list of Nightlife hot spots by restaurants and bars/all ages/ atmosphere. The mezedopoleia
serving Greek appetizers, wine, brands, as well as, various spaces
ouzo, (the anise-flavoured for dining and entertainment.
aperitif), and rakomelo (a potent Athens Hearts trademark is its
alcoholic drink made with the open roof, which offers plenty
Cretan spirit, raki, and honey) of light and a spectacular view
attract the young and the older towards Acropolis and Lycabettus
ones. Hill.
Syntagma The hotel bars that 180, Pireos str., Hamosternas
surround the square are very hub, tel: +30210 3414105,
popular amongst visitors and website: www.athensheart.gr
NM: Petralona (Line 1) OH: Stores
natives. Interesting to note is the Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat 10am-
lively enclave of bars found at 8pm cafes & restaurants: Mon-
Karitsi square south of Kolokotroni Sun 8:30am-1am Supermarket:
square and the Old Parliament Mon-Fri 8am-9pm, Sat 8am-8pm.
building (Palia Vouli). Athens Metro Mall is ideally
Voula-Vouliagmeni These located right next to Agios
two seaside neighbourhoods Dimitrios underground station
are ideal, urban resorts. The tram on Vouliagmenis Avenue, which
gets you to Voula where pristine makes it a shopping centre with
beaches, tropical bars and exotic great accessibility. It includes 85
clubs await for you. Vouliagmeni stores with major brands covering
has some of Greeces finest hotels every need, 18 restaurants, 5
and spas. cinema screens, a supermarket,
a play area, a bank and 1,200
Winter or summer the roof tops
Dance the night away! parking lots. One of Athens
in Athens are plenty
Where to find Greek Nightclubs: Metro Malls most characteristic
At the industrial areas of Iera aspects is its architectural design.
Odos and Pireos Street in Gazi, on pre-announced evenings at and make a great wayto spend Abundant light, water and green
in the winter and fall, along bars in general. a few hours. Athens is a city of features create the ideal location
Poseidon avenue and the coastal For more information on malls with shopping centres for a relaxing shopping and
suburbs of Glyfada, Voula and places of interest please refer conveniently located in almost entertainment experience.
Vouliagmeni, in the summer. to our website at www. every area of the city. So why not 276, Vouliagmenis ave., Agios
Where to find the most trendy breathtakingathens.com. explore the plethora of stores Dimitrios tel: +30210 9769444,
clubs: In the summer, along website: www.athensmetromall.
by checking out ourAthens gr Email: info@athensmetromall.
the coast and in the winter, in Shopping Malls List? gr NM: Agios Dimitrios (Line 2).
Kolonaki and Kifissia. Shopping malls Athens Heart is located on the OH: Stores: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm,
What about Jazz and The Shopping Malls are a cross between two of Athens Sat 9am-8pm, Restaurants, cafes
Karaoke? relatively new phenomenon in main road arteries, Pireos and and cinemas until after midnight,
Talented musicians of Athens the Athenian shopping scene. Hamosternas streets, right in Bank: Mon-Fri 9am-3:30pm.
and well-known artists from New The mall culturefascinated the the middle of the citys historical Avenue: Relatively small but very
York and London can be found Athenians and they seem to centre. This multi-storey cosy and conveniently located
in Athens, as the list of artists that love every bit of it. The Shopping commercial and entertainment in the heart of the Athenian
visit, especially during the fall and Mallsin Athens are not only centre houses well-known business district, the Avenue mall
winter, is quite impressive. places to pick up a bargain, but clothing, shoes, accessories, houses many well-known brands,
Karaoke nights are usually held they also act as gathering places technology and childrens a supermarket, a post-office,
various restaurants and cafes, as open-air shopping mall with 110
Athens Metro Mall includes 85 stores
well as, a fun park which makes it stores, cafes and restaurants, with
with major brands, 18 restaurants,
very popular among kids and outdoor public walkways, which
5 cinema screens, a supermarket,
their parents. a play area, a bank and 1,200 emulate the feeling of shopping
41-47, Kifssias ave. Marousi, tel: in a picturesque neighbourhood
+30210 6100901, website:www. parking lots
of Athens. In close proximity to
avenuemall.gr Email: info@ the Athens International Airport
avenuemall.gr NM: Nerantziotisa and the Attica Zoological Park
(Line 1). OH: Stores: Mon-Fri 9am-
(www.atticapark.com), this
9pm, Sat 9am-8pm, supermarket:
Mon-Fri 8:30am-9pm, Sat discount village offers your
8:30am-8pm Restaurants & cafes favourite brands, in fashion,
daily 9am-midnight, Fun Park: beauty and homeware at a
Mon-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat-Sun discount of 35-70%.
10am-11pm, Post-office Mon-Fri Block E71, Gialos, Spata, tel: +30
10am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm. 210 6630840, website: www.
Golden Hall aims at offering the mcarthurglenathens.gr OH:
utmost in shopping luxury and
Stores: Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat
10am-8pm, Cafes: Mon-Sat
elegance.With a total surface 9:30am-10pm, Sun 10am-6pm,
of 41,000 m, GoldenHallis Restaurants: Mon-Fri 10am-
developed in 3 levels, hosting midnight, Sat. 10am-am, Sun
131 national and international noon-8pm.
commercial fashion brands and Attica the Department Store:
elegant restaurants and cafes. It may not be a mall, but this
Golden Halls parking is extended department store qualifies as the
in 2 levels with 1,400 parking lots, perfect shopping destination if
thus offering a comfortable and you want it all without leaving
safe visit. the city centre. It is housed in a
37A, Kifissias ave., Marousi historic building that combines
tel: +30210 6803450, website: the essence of modern aesthetics
www.goldenhall.gr NM: complex, an amusement park, store, they constitute the River with the architectural elements of
Nerantziotisa (Line 1) OH: Stores: arestauran/food courtarea and West shopping complex. Apart the 20s and extends to a whole
Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat 10am- building block. Syntagma square,
2,100 parking lots. from the many stores covering
8pm Cafes: Mon-Fri 9am-10pm,
35, Andrea Papandreou str, every need, River West features and its underground station,
Sat 9am-9pm Restaurants: Mon-
Marousi, tel: +30210-6300000, restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, are just around the corner, and
Sat until late. website: www.themallathens. 2,500 free parking lots and a free some of Athens finest hotels
The Mall Athens was the first gr Email: nfo@themallathens.gr baby parking service! are just a minutes walk away.
of its kind to be constructed in NM: Nerantziotisa (Line 1). OH: 96-98, Kifissou ave., Egaleo In Attica Department Store you
Greece. It is one of the largest Stores Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat tel:+30 801 2225050 website: will find more than 360 shops in
shopping and leisure centres 9am-8pm, Cafes: Mon-Sun until www.riverwest.gr NM: Egaleo a shop and 860 different brand
inSoutheastern Europe bringing the early hours. (Line 3) OH: Stores: Mon-Fri 9am- names, with allofthe citys
a whole new age of shopping The River West shopping 9pm, Sat 9am-8pm Cafes and amenitiesatyourdoorstep.
and entertainment options to mall opened in April 2011 and restaurants: vary. 9, Panepistimiou str. tel: +30211
the Athenians. It has over 200 quickly became a landmark for Also check: McArthurGlen, 1802600, website: www.
outlets for commercial and West Attica. It covers an area of the international designer outlet atticadps.gr NM: Syntagma
entertainment use, banks, a post 20,000 m and together with village chain, has created its 20th (Lines 2 & 3) OH: Mon-Fri 10am-
office, a supermarket, a cinema the pre-existing IKEA retail outlet in Athens. It is a luxurious, 9pm, Sat 10am-7pm
METROPOLITAN demanding traveller. Relax and indulge
Athens Hotels Hotel Category: 5 stars , Address: Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 385, the fresh air that these venues offer,
50, Michalakopoulou Street, 11528, Syngrou Avenue, 17564, Athens NM: without compromising your comfort
The accommodation infrastructure in Athens, NM: Megaro Moussikis , Syngrou-FIX (Line 2), Tel: +30210 and style.
Athens caters to all tastes and budgets, Tel: +30210 7278000, Fax: +30210
from luxurious suites to low-cost 9471100, Fax: +30210 947 1010, SEMIRAMIS
7278600, Email: info@cpathens.com, Email: metropolitan@chandris.gr, Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 48,
youth hostels. Lavishly adorned rooms Website: www.cpathens.com www.chandris.gr Charilaou Trikoupi Street, 14562,
with super spas, charming bed and DIVANI CARAVEL
breakfasts, can be enjoyed at any NEW HOTEL Kefalari-Kifissia, NM: Kifissia (Line 1)
Hotel Category: 5 stars, ddress: 2, Hotel Category: 4 stars, Address: 16, Tel: +30210 6284400,
time of year. Many 5-star and other Vasileos Alexandrou Avenue, 16121, Filellinon Street, 10557, Athens NM: Fax: +30210 6284499,
affordable new boutique hotels are Athens, NM: Evangelismos (Line 2), Syntagma (Lines 2 & 3) Tel: +30210 Email: info@semiramisathens.com,
located near the Acropolis, in Plaka, Tel: +30210 7207000, Fax: +30210 3273000, Fax: +30210 3273100, www.yeshotels.gr
in Kolonaki, at Lycabettus Hill and in 7236683, Email: info@divanicaravel.gr, Email: info@newhotel.gr,
Syntagma. For those who prefer the www.divanis.com
sea and commute to the city, the Attica DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS
www.yeshotels.gr Coastal
Coastline from Paleo Faliro, Glyfada,
NOVOTEL ATHENS
Hotel Category: 5 stars, ddress: 19-25 Hotel Category: 4 stars, Address: 4-6, Breathtaking blue seas that reach
Kavouri, Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza Parthenonos Street, 11742, Athens, beyond the horizon. Tropical and exotic
Michail Voda, 10439, Athens NM:
and Lagonissi are worth considering, NM: Acropolis (Line 2), Tel: +30210 restaurants, cafes and bars that boast
Larisa Station (Line 2), Tel: +30210
winter and summer. Among the 500 9280100, Fax: +30210 9214993, internationally-acclaimed chefs. Spas
8200700, Fax: +30210 8200777,
hotels and the 29.000 rooms to be Email: info@divaniacropolis.gr, with Thalassotherapy treatments.
Email: h0866@accor.com,
found in Athens there is surely one that www.divanis.com The hotels along the coast begin with
www.novotelathens.gr
accommodate your needs. Most hotels ELECTRA PALACE N.J.V. ATHENS PLAZA HOTEL affordable three-and four-star along
are within walking distance to the Hotel Category: 5 stars, ddress: 18-20 the start of the Attica Coastline and
Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 2
Metro or Tram. Here is a selection of Nikodimou Street, 10557, Athens, NM: increase to include 5-star luxury as
Vasileos Georgiou A Street, 10564,
the citys finest: Syntagma (Line 2 & 3), Tel: +30210 you head towards Vouliagmeni and
Syntagma sq., NM: Syntagma (Lines 2
3370000, Fax: +30210 3241875, & 3) Tel: +30210 3352400, Fax: +30210 Sounion. Wherever you choose to stay,
City Centre Email: salesepath@electrahotels.gr, 3235856, Email: info@njvathensplaza.gr, the sea and city are close by.
www.electrahotels.gr www.njvathensplaza.gr ARION LUXURY COLLECTION
ATHENAEUM GRANDE BRETAGNE RESORT & SPA - ASTIR PALACE
INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL RADISSON BLU PARK HOTEL
Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: A1 Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 10, RESORT
Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 89-93 Vasileos Georgiou Street, 10563, Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 40,
Alexandras Avenue, 10682, Athens NM:
Syngrou Avenue, 11745, Athens, NM: Syntagma Square NM : Syntagma Apollonos Street, 16671, Vouliagmeni,
Victoria (Line 1), Tel: +30210 8894500,
Syngrou-FIX, Tel: +30210 9206000, (Lines 2 & 3), Tel: +30210 3330000, Tel : +30210 8902000,
Fax: +30210 8238420,
Fax: +30210 9206500, Fax: +302103228034, Fax: +30210 8962582,
Email: info@rbathenspark.com,
Email: athens@ihg.com Email: info.gb@starwoodhotels.com, Email: astir.reservations@starwoodhotels.com,
www.rbathenspark.com
www.ichotelsgroup.com www.grandebretagne.gr www.arionresortathens.com
SAINT GEORGE LYCABETTUS
ATHINAIS HOTEL HILTON ATHENS HOTEL DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA
Hotel Category: 3 stars, ddress: Hotel Category: 5 stars, Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address:
Hotel Category: 5 stars , Address: 2
99, Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, 11521, Address: 46, Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, 10, Agiou Nikolaou Street, 16671,
Kleomenous Street, 106 75 Athens,
Athens, NM: Megaro Mousikis (Line 11528, Athens, NM: Evangelismos Vouliagmeni , Tel: +30210 8911100,
Greece Tel +30 210 7416 000 |
3), Tel: +30210 6431133, Fax: +30210 (Line 2), Tel: +30210 7281000, Fax: +30210 9658010,
email: info@sgl.gr
6461682, Email: info@athinaishotellgr, Fax: +30210 7281111, Email: info@divaniapollon.gr,
www.sglycabettus.gr
www.athinaishotel.gr Email: sales.athens@hilton.com, www.divanis.com
BEST WESTERN ILISIA HOTEL www.hiltonathens.gr WESTIN ATHENS -
Hotel Category: 4 stars, ddress: 25 LEDRA MARRIOT Greater Athens ASTIR PALACE RESORT
Michalakopoulou Avenue, 11528, Hotel Category: 5 stars, ddress: 113- The quieter lush green suburbs of Hotel Category: 5 stars, Address: 40,
Athens, NM: Megaro Moussikis (Line 115 Syngrou Avenue, 11745, Athens, Kifissia, Kefalari -- and additional areas Apollonos Street, 16671, Vouliagmeni,
3), Tel: +30210 724 4051, Fax: +30210 NM: Syngrou-FIX (Line 2), Tel: +30210 just outside Athens and the popular Tel: +30210 8902000, Fax: +30210
7241847, Email: ilisia@ath.forthnet.gr, 9300000, Fax: +30210 9358603, coastal towns -- offer a neoclassical or 8962582,
www.ilisiahotel.gr Email: athensledra@marriott.com, modern escape with accommodations Email: astir.reservations@starwoodhotels.com,
CROWNE PLAZA ATHENS www.marriott.com and amenities befitting the www.arionresortathens.com
EndlessBlue,acity
bythesea
Discover and explore Europes best-kept secret: the Attica
Riviera & the Athenian Coastline
EndlessBlue,acitybythesea
Discover the Attica daily life, but for those
who come from
Riviera & the colder and cloudier

climates, the sea that
Athenian Coastline extends from the city

is something to be
highly appreciated.
The Athenian Riviera There are not many
boasts a series of cities in the world
high class restau- where one can take a
rants, cafes, exciting dip immediately after
music venues and a long day at work or
modern sports hours of sightseeing!
facilities, as well as Visitors of Athens can
some of the best easily explore this
beaches and seaside side of the city just by
destinations in getting on the bus
the world! During (www.oasa.gr),
summer, spring and (www.ktelattikis. gr)
early fall, the coastal or the tram (www.
waters of Athens are tramsa.gr). So, no
for swimmers, while need to head to the
its nightlife, fancy res- Greek islands, at least
taurants, shopping not yet
streets, yacht marinas Summer or Winter,
and natural beauties the Athenian coast-
are to be enjoyed line is to be enjoyed
year-round! all year-round!
Little known fact:

Athens is more than
just the Acropolis.
Undoubtedly, this city
with its vibrant urban
landscape, boasts
some of the best
beaches and seaside
destinations in the
world and offers a
riviera just 30 minutes
away from its heart.
For native Atheni-
ans, the blue flag*
awarded beaches
are just part of their
Start by gazing the luxurious
yachts docked at Flisvos Marina
(www.flisvosmarina.com), the
mega yacht marina filled with
shops and dining venues within Dont miss!
the municipality of Paleo Faliro. The Maritime Museum for the docu-
Enjoy a light meal or a cool drink mentation of Greeces nautical history
alongside the docks at Alimos from prehistoric times until today.
Marina, just a few tram stops Battleship Averof for its stout presence
away. Take a walk to the Bat- in the seas, even nowadays as a
tleship Averof museum site museum and educational site. Having
(www.bsaverof.com), or get on served as the head of the Greek fleet,
the bus and visit the renowned it played a crucial role in leading
for its technology, Eugenides Greece and its allies to victory during
Foundation Digital Planetari- the Balkan Wars (1912-1913), while
um (www.eugenfound.edu.gr).
it remained in active service for over
44 years.
The tram is the easiest and by far
the most pleasurable way to see
the coastline suburbs that make
up the greater Athens region
(Attica): Paleo Faliro, Alimos, Kala-
maki, Agios Kosmas, Elliniko and
Glyfada. Hop on in Syntagma,
reach up to the beginnings of
Voula and enjoy some of the all
year-round seaside hotspots.
After 30 minutes of ride, you will
reach to the seaside suburb of
Paleo Faliro. You can choose
to continue south towards
Glyfada and Voula or stop at
Trocadero and head towards
Flisvos Marina. If blue waters
and curvy winding paths is your
version of sightseeing, then get
on the E22 Akadimia - Saronida
Express bus for an awe-inspiring
ride you will surely not forget.
The E22 bus reaches a little
further south compared to the
tram route. Along the way, there
is Vouliagmeni Lake, known for
its therapeutic waters. Vouliag-
meni is one of the wealthiest
suburbs of Athens and its
accommodations serve the
neighbouring suburbs of Voula,
Varkiza and Glyfada. Just a little
further down in Varkiza is Island,
one of the best summer clubs Did you know?
on this side of the Mediterrane- The seaside suburbs from Paleo Faliro
an. Anavissos has many seaside to Vouliagmeni were once reserved
tavernas and windsurfing cafes. by the Athenians for their holiday
Lagonissi is a hot summer des- homes. Nowadays, they are considered
tination, as well. Perhaps thats to be part of the greater metropolitan
why every year, more and more area, with each municipality boasting
twenty and thirty-something a unique business, commercial and
jet setters, choose to make social activity.
Athens their home, opting to
take advantage of the citys sea
and sun lifestyle choices, not to
mention its vibrant nightlife and
stylish designer and prt a porter
shopping.
Tip: To save some time, choose
to take the underground from
Syntagma, get off at Fix station
and then take the tram heading
towards Voula or Peace and
Friendship Stadium (SEF). The
E22 bus stops there, too.
Dine, Dance and Mingle. Dont
leave Athens before experienc-
ing its coastline lifestyle, nightlife
and gastronomy. Highlights for
enjoying the beautiful, vast coast
include: taking a swim at one of
the beaches and enjoying an
iced coffee (frapp or freddo) at
the seaside cafes. Dinner can be
casual or gourmet, luxurious or
inexpensive, Greek or interna-
tional cuisine. Dress in stylish
summer clothes and choose
between a romantic moonlit
dinner or a night full of dancing!
Visit with your children:
The Archelon Sea Turtle Flisvos Marina where you can take
Protection Society of Greece a long walk by the sea.
(www.archelon.gr), Rescue Cen-
tre: 3rd marina of Glyfada. Learn
everything about the sea turtles
and their habitats in Greece, as
well as, their history, biodiversity
and biology. Entrance: Free. Open Did you know?
on weekends. Every Sunday at Mavromihali and
The Flisvos Park (tram stop: Dragatsaniou streets, Piraeus hosts a
Parko Flisvos) is one of the larg- large flea market that is called the Mo-
est open-air playgrounds for chil- nastiraki of Piraeus. Take a walk and
dren. There is also an amusement have a glance at the many antiques
park , where you can also enjoy and do not forget to bargain!
a cup of coffee at the numerous
cafes. The same applies for Kala-
maki and Alimos Marina.
Beach visits! The majority of
the beaches close to downtown
Athens are organised and offer
amenities such as beach chairs
and umbrellas, lifeguard services,
childrens playgrounds, restau-
rants and water sports facilities for
all ages.
There are several organised
beaches with an entrance fee,
please visit our website www.
breathtakingathens.com for
more information.
Beaches with no entrance fee on
the southern coastline of Attica
and accessible by tram:
AGioS KoSMAS BEAch
Tram stop: 1st Agios Kosmas
ELLiniKo BEAch
Tram stop: Elliniko
GLyFADA BEAch:
Tram stop: Kolimvitirio
BLuE FLAG BEAchES:*
*(www.blueflag.org)
MuniciPALiTy/BEAch or
MArinA:
Marathonas/ Schinias, Karavi Nea
Makri/ Breksiza Markopoulo/
Avlaki Lavreotiki/ Pounta Zeza,
Olympic Marine Anavissos/ Ma- The Archelon Sea Turtle Protection
vro Lithari, Eden Beach, Kendriki Society of Greece.
Kalivia/ Lagonissi 1,2 and 3 Vari/
Varkiza Vouliagmeni/ Asteras
Voula/ 1st Voula Paleo Faliro/
Flisvos Marina Kythira/ Kakia Do not miss!
Lagada The Piraeus Archaeological Museum
* The Blue Flag is an exclusive for its collection of ancient findings
eco-label awarded to beaches originating from the area. Do not
and marinas that meet strict miss the impressive reconstruction
criteria regarding cleanliness of the mausoleum of Nikeratos and
of the sea and the coast, good his son Polyxenos, the bronze statues
organization and safety, as well of Artemis, Athena and the archaic
as, the protection of the coastal bronze Kouros.
environment.
More Attica coastline beaches

South (towards Sounio)
Saronic Gulf
Anavissos (50 km from Athens)
Kavouri (16 km from Athens)
Lagonissi: (36 km from Athens)
Vouliagmeni Lake: (21 km from
Athens) Tram makes transportation easy, especially
Legrena: (60 km from Athens) along the south coastline.
Palea Fokea: (50 km from Athens)
Saronida: (42 km from Athens)
northwest (towards port of Piraeus, Mikrolimano Temple of Poseidon.
Sounio: (65 km from Athens)
Loutraki) corinthian Gulf and Pasalimani (Zea). The latter Dine or dance at one of the many
Varkiza: (25 km from Athens)
Alepohori: Psatha Beach (60 km two picturesque ports host seaside venues.
West (towards Elefsina) from Athens) many yachts, sailing boats and Visit the Digital Planetarium of the
Saronic Gulf Porto Germeno: (62 km from dozens of fish restaurants and Eugenides Foundation.
Kineta: (55 km from Athens) Athens) tavernas. Just above Mikroli- Pick a beach close by and take a swim
Megara: (41 km from Athens) or stroll.
north (towards Malakasa) mano, lies the hill of Kastella
Pahi (Megara): (40 km from Visit the Battleship Averof (www.
Evoic Gulf or Profitis ilias. Climb to the
Athens) bsaverof.com).
Halkoutsi: (60 km from Athens) top and enjoy a beverage while
East (towards rafina) Evoic admiring the breathtaking view Go to Piraeus, visit the Piraeus
Gulf Kalamos: (45 km from Athens) Archaeological Museum and the
Marathonas: (42 km from of the Attica peninsula.
Keratea: Kakia Thalassa, Daskalio Maritime Museum (www.maritime-
(50 km from Athens) Athens) Top 10 Things to see and museum.gr).
Loutsa: (31 km from Athens) Oropos: (52 km from Athens) Enjoy your dinner at a seafood
Schinias: (50 km from Athens) do when in the Athenian restaurant in Mikrolimano, a taverna
Mati: (29 km from Athens)
Nea Makri: (40 km from Athens) coastline: or cafeteria in Pasalimani.
Porto Rafti: Erotospilia, Avlaki Stroll around Paleo Faliro and its Enjoy a great lunch or dinner at the
Beach (35 km from Athens) Piraeus: esplanade stretching from Flisvos resorts of Vouliagmeni, Kavouri or
Rafina: Marikes and Kokina More than just a busy port. Life Marina to Alimos Marina and up to Lagonissi.
Limanakia (30 km from Athens) in Piraeus revolves around its Kalamaki. Play a round of golf at Glyfada Golf
Zoumberi: (26 km from Athens) three main ports: The Main Take a daytrip to Sounion and the Course (www.ggca.gr).
Enchanting
bestdaytrips mountain and
mainland
One of the greatest things when taking a trip to Athens is its
proximity to the beautiful white-washed Greek islands, enchanting
excursions
villages and ancient, historical cities. Even if you are in Athens for just
a few days, we recommend that you spend a day or two at one of By car or
the following destinations. Each place has distinctive characteristics,
archaeological treasures, unique culture and bright colours. Greeks,
known for their filoxenia, that is their warm guest welcoming and
by bus
hospitality, will greet you with a smile and invite you to try their local
specialties.
Cape Sounion (1.5 hours)
Why: For the breathtaking
seaside drive that gets you to
this remarkable site. For the great
sunset and for the Temple of
Poseidon (Sounio).
Dont miss: The sunset at the
Temple of Poseidon.
The Vouliagmeni Lake (40

minutes, tel: +30210 8962237,
www.limnivouliagmenis.gr)
Why: To admire a spectacle of
nature and for its therapeutic
waters.
Mount Parnitha (30 minutes)

Why: If trekking and bird
watching are more of your
style, travel only 30 kilometres
(19 miles) from Athens and
you will find yourselves in Mt.
Parnitha, the largest of the three
mountains of Attica.
Mainland
Arachova (2-3 hours)
Why: Arachova is a small town
built upon the slopes of Mount
bestdaytripsfromathens
Parnassos. If you prefer to visit construction is concerned. If
Arachova in the summer time, you plan to visit Athens in the
you enjoy both mountain and summer, arrange ahead of time to
sea activities. Itea and Galaxidi, attend a theatrical performance in
pleasant summer resorts, are Epidaurus (www.greekfestival.gr).
situated few miles away from To visit Mycenae and Tiryns, the
Arachova. sites with the remains of two of
Dont miss: The handmade, multi- the most ancient citadels in the
coloured carpets (including the world. In Mycenae, 50 km (31
white, fluffy flokati), the annual miles) south of Corinth, you can
three-day fair (Panigiraki) (April 22 admire the remains of the Palace
April 25) to honour Saint George, of the mythical King Agamemnon
Arachovas patron saint, and the (a leader of the Greeks in the
victory of the Greeks over the expedition against Troy) and
Ottomans in 1826. the Lionesses Gate. Tiryns was
Tip: "Mykonos" of the winter. a fortress which started to exist
the same date with Mycenae.
Parnassos (3 hours) However, there are findings which
Why: For a ski weekend at confirm a Neolithic settlement.
Parnassos Ski Center, the largest ski Enough evidence survived from
resort in Greece, for enjoying the the settlement of the Early Bronze
after ski social interaction, as well Age (2500-2000 B.C.) to prove the
as for the wider areas significant existence of a series of apsidal
archaeological monuments. houses arranged round a very
Did you know? According to huge circular building on the
the Greek mythology, Mount summit of the hill.
Parnassos was the favourite To visit Argos, one of Europes
hangout place of Apollo and oldest cities, continuously
Dionysus. The Isthmus of Corinth inhabited for the past 7,000 years.
Dont miss: the Lionesses Gate,
Delphi (2.5 hours) the entrance of the Mycenaean
Peloponnese
seaside resort, Loutraki. Acropolis, a theatrical
Why: This enchanting area is Dont miss: The Loutraki performance in Epidaurus (www.
famous for its archaeological Folklore Museum, the greekfestival.gr) during the
sites, such as the ancient Oracle Archaeological Museum of summer months, a visit to the
of Delphi and the Temple of nearby town of Ligourio for local
Apollo, where the leaders of the
Ancient Corinth, Corinth Canal Ancient Corinth, the ancient
& Loutraki (1.5 hours) settlement of Schinous gastronomic specialties.
ancient world sought spiritual
guidance. Both sites are built on (ancient port), the Roman villa
Why: To visit the grandiose at Katounistra, Loutraki, the Nafplion (2 hours)
a hill that offers a magnificent
view of the surrounding area. ancient ruins, dating back to medieval monasteries on the Why: The first capital of modern
The newly-built Archaeological the Roman period, such as the slopes of Gerania mountain. Greece, Nafplion, has one of the
Museum of Ancient Delphi is imposing ruins of the Archaic nicest ports and marble-paved
exquisite and houses important Temple of Apollo in ancient Argos, Epidaurus, Mycenae esplanades in Greece. It is a
findings from the area. Nearby, you Corinth. To visit the Isthmus and Tiryns (2 hours) picturesque town lying at the
can find the seaside resorts of Itea of Corinth, the narrow land foot of a cliff crowned by the
and Galaxidi. bridge which connects the Why: To visit the ancient Theatre Venetian fortress of Palamidi.
Did you know? Delphi was Peloponnesian peninsula with of Epidaurus and witness first There is also the small Bourtzi
considered to be The Centre of mainland Greece. To try your hand the achievements of Fortress on the tiny island across
the World in ancient times. luck at the casinos of the nearby ancient Greeks as far as theatre the harbour. Nafplion can serve
as your ideal home base for Modern Greek in this island and
daily trips to the nearby sites of also completed a great work,
Argos, Nemea, Mycenae, Tiryns, the Greek-France dictionary.
Epidaurus and ancient Corinth. The great painter Morales as
Dont miss: the Venetian also Nobel laureates George
Fortress of Palamidi and Seferis lived on the island
Bourtzi Fortress on the little finding its natural environment
island across the bay (short boat inspiring.
rides available in the summer),
the Komboli (Greek worry Halkida, Evia (1 hour by car)
beads) Museum.
Must do: Eat a sweet or ice- Why: For the drive over the
cream at one of the many cafes swing bridge, crossing over
of the Nafplian cobblestone the narrow Evripos Straits
esplanade. and subsequent view of the
tidal current below (which
Aristotle tried hard to explain
Ancient Olympia (4 hours) in ancient times) and for
Why: One of the most sacred the fresh fish tavernas and
ancient centres for religious ouzomezedopoleia (places
worship, built in honour of Zeus, that serve the anise-flavoured
Olympia was chosen to be the aperitif and small dishes).
birth site of the Olympic Games. Dont miss: the
Dont miss: The Stadium, Archaeological Museum of
the ancient Gymnasium, the Halkida, the Karababas Castle,
Temple of Zeus, which is built by the Turks in 1684,
considered to be one of the the Emir Zade Mosque, the
finest and oldest examples of Archaeological Museum and
Doric architecture. the Folklore Museum inside
Port of Hydra Island the castle, the Byzantine church
Island
of Agia Paraskevi.
Beaches: The seaside towns of
Eretria and Kimi for crystal blue
How to get there: By high- and nearby Moni Island, waters. Up to the north, one
Day speed hydrofoil (also called,

flying dolphins) from Piraeus.
Connections are available
accessible in the summer by a
small boat from Perdika.
Beaches: Agia Marina,
can have a swim in the healing
waters of Edipsos.
Did you know? The towns
Trips
from the neighbouring islands Aiginitisa, Avra, Aqua Loca, name is said to originate from
of Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Kima, Marathonas Cantina, halkos (copper), which the
Spetses. Sarpa. residents used to process on
Must try: The world-famous Did you know? The pistachios the island. The ancient city was
Aegina (40 minutes -1 hour, Aegina gourmet pistachios, of Aegina are famous for their a renowned trading center,
homemade rizogalo (rice fruity and juicy taste. The island which established several
www.aeginagreece.com) pudding), marmalade and local minted the first Greek coins, colonies and built famous
Why: Picturesque houses, cheese, mitzithra. known as silver tortoises temples dedicated to Zeus,
winding alleys, horse-drawn Dont miss: Aphaia Temple, that subsequently gained Apollo and Hera.
carriages, fertile plains, olive the oldest surviving temple in great financial importance Note: You can also get to
trees, aquamarine waters and Greece, the Folklore Museum, throughout the Greek world. Eretria (from Athens) by driving
an abundance of fragrant the Archaeological site and the Nikos Kazantzakis translated to Oropos and then taking a
wildflowers in the spring. museum of Kolona, Waterpark the Odyssey from ancient to short ferry ride.
Seferis, Kosmas Politis, Kostis
Hydra (1.5 hours, Palamas, Ioulia Dragoumi and
www.hydra.com.gr) Henry Miller have praised the
beauty of Poros.
Why: Forget all about noisy Tip: Visit during spring when the
cars and motorcycles. Think lemon trees bloom.
of water taxis, donkeys and
hiking. The approach to one of
the most picturesque ports of Spetses (2 hours by hydrofoil,
Greece is sure to remain in your 3 hours by car and ferry boat)
mind forever. Artists, writers and Why: For the horse-drawn
actors of international renown carriages that pass through the
frequent this sophisticated and Venetian- style buildings, for its
cosmopolitan Greek island. cosmopolitan nightlife and for
Maybe its the brightly coloured meeting people of the Athenian
flowers that graciously spill over upper-class.
the white-washed 18th- and How to get there: By high-speed
19th- century mansions, or the
myriad of art galleries and cliffside hydrofoil (flying dolphin) from
beaches. Summer or winter, this Piraeus. Connections are also
amphitheatrically-built island available from the neighbouring
near Athens is a window into the islands of Hydra and Poros. If you
undying tradition of the Greek opt to go by car, drive to Kosta (3
island life. hours) in Peloponnese and take the
How to get there: By high-speed 15-minute ferry ride across.
hydrofoil (flying dolphins) from Dont miss: The mystical Villa
Piraeus. Connections to Poros, Bourani from the John Fowles
Ermioni, Dokos, Spetses, Porto novel The Magus, Spetsopoula,
Poros Island the small island opposite Spetses,
Heli and, in July and August,
connections to Epidaurus. Bouboulinas historic 300-year old
Dont miss: Hydra Historical mansion, Spetses State Museum,
Archives and Museum, ancient Troezen (modern Trizina), housed at the Hadjiyannis-Mexis
Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, Kea or Tzia (1 hour) Nafplion, Mycenae, and Tiryns. 200-year old mansion.
Agios Nikolaos Monastery, How to get there: By high-speed Special events: The Armata
Why: One more Cycladic island hydrofoil (flying doplhins) from festival in September and the
Lazaros Koundouriotis House located so close to Athens.
and the many mansions of the Piraeus. Connections are available traditional Burning of the ship
island. How to get there: By high-speed from the neighbouring islands of dramatization culminate a week
Did you know? Leonard Cohen ferry from Lavrio. Hydra, Aegina, Agistri and Spetses. full of festivities that commemorate
has a house in Hydra. Sophia Beaches: Koundouros, Pises, Dont miss: Zoodochos Pigi the anniversary of the Spetses naval
Lorens 1957 American film debut Liparo, Kambi, Korissia, Gialiskari. Monastery, Archaeological battle of September 8, 1822.
of The Boy on a Dolphin was Museum of Poros, Beaches: Agioi Anargiri, Agia
filmed in Hydra. Poros (1 hour by hydrofoil, www. Lemonodasos (Lemon Forest), Marina, Agios Mamas, Kosta,
Special events: International poros.com.gr) Temple of Poseidon. Zogeria, Ligoneri, Xilokeriza, Agia
Puppet Festival in July, annual Beaches: Monastiri, Askeli, Kanali, Paraskevi, Kouzounos, Agios
Miaoulia celebrations at the Why: In close proximity to Perlia, Neorio, Aliki, Vagionia, Nikolaos, Garifalos.
end of June. Athens, Poros offers a quick, Limanaki tis Agapis (Love Little Did you know? John Fowless
Beaches: Bisti, Vlichos, Mandraki, tranquil escape. The island is full Port). novel The Magus used the island
Agios Nikolaos, Hydroneta. of pine, lemon and olive trees and Must try: Locally produced as its setting. Spetses was the
Tip: Leave your stilettos at home neoclassical buildings. Close to lemonade. home of Laskarina Bouboulina, the
and wear comfortable shoes to Peloponnese, Poros serves as an Did you know? Prominent legendary heroine of the Greek War
enjoy the hilly, curvy streets. ideal base for visiting Epidaurus, intellectuals, including George of Independence.
Agistri (45 minutes) More nearby cycladic islands to discover
Kythnos by ferry from Lavrio port
Why: For its pristine and (2.5 hours) and Andros by ferry
unspoiled island beauty and
from Rafina port (2 hours).
walks by nature. How to get
there: By high-speed hydrofoil Ports
(flying dolphin) from Piraeus.
Connections are available Piraeus Port: (information hotline:
from the neighbouring island 14541, www.olp.gr) Main port with
of Aegina. Dont miss: A walk year-round service to international
from Skala all around the destinations, as well as to the
island to Limenaria and the Saronic Gulf, Dodecanese, Ionian
secluded Aponisos beach. and Aegean Sea islands.
There are beautiful trails to Rafina Port: (tel: +30 22940-22300
follow in the rich pine tree and +30 22940 28888, www.
forest of the island where rafinaport.gr) 2nd largest port,
one can admire great view approximately 45 minutes from
of the island. Beaches: Athens.
Skala, Megalochori, Xekofti, Lavrio Port: (tel: +30 22920 26859
Dragonera, Aponisos, Magisa, www.oll.gr). Approximately 1 hour
Bariama, Skliri, Chalikiada. from Athens.
80 www.breathtakingathens.com

Athens 2806 Web PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Athens 2806 Web PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Athens 2806 Web PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Athens landmarks best of arts & culture, sites

A quick guide to some of the citys must see

Archaeological Sites Monastiraki Square) [C3-C4] Frissiras Museum (3-7, Monis

Ancient Agora [C3]

The City of Athens

Metro Lines 2 & 3

Hellenic Railways Greece; KTEL Liosion: (260,

To your health: Stin E-ya Sou Good night: Kalinihta

Page 34 1-2-3 Days in Athens

Page 72 Day Trips Cool and Close by Islands,

Edited and designed by the team FreeSunday

Fun for the whole

teresting walks, Ionic order. Built on two levels,

the Historic Centre

The ancient Olympic - Panathenaic Stadium.

Riviera & the colder and cloudier

Athenian Coastline extends from the city

Little known fact:

More Attica coastline beaches

The Vouliagmeni Lake (40

Mount Parnitha (30 minutes)

Day speed hydrofoil (also called,

You might also like