As a born and bred Athenian I can pinpoint a number of reasons why the center of Athens is so special.
The unique historical area around Acropolis, Plaka, Anafiotika, Monastiraki square, the parks, the museums, the open-air cinemas, and the Athenian light, all make the Athens center special. Visitors repeatedly agree on that, despite the fact that experiences may vary according to which time of the year someone chooses to visit.
1. Acropolis and the Historical Area Around it is Unique
Acropolis defines the city of Athens. This landmark is deeply routed in Athenians’ minds as a vivid and powerful connection to the city’s origin.
At the archeological site of the Acropolis, in Dionyssiou Aeropegitou Street, one can visit the multiple award-winner state-of-the-art Acropolis museum. It is made out of glass and steel. Guided tours are available every hour and I would highly recommend one.
The visitor can feel the “dialogue” between the sacred rock and the museum as they stand facing each other.
2. Plaka is the Oldest Neighborhood in Athens
Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Situated right at the northeast part of the heal of Acropolis and around the Athenian Ancient Agora.
A must-see for visitors. There are two main pedestrian streets, Kydathinaion and Andrianou street.
One will find traditional tavernas, cafes, jewelry stores, numerous museums, and Archaeological Sites.
There are also a number of street musicians.
And the knowledge that one walks in an area Athenians inhabit since the Antiquity.
3. Anafiotika Feels Like Being on an Island
Can it be that a small Aegean island is found right there, in the center of the city? That is the case with Anafiotika, a neighborhood build by settlers from the Cycladic island of Anafi. Right next to Plaka within walking distance from Acropolis, you are still in the center of the city.
But it does not feel like it. The world slows down as you walk the narrow streets. There are no cars or big city noises. Just the characteristic blue and white background.
A small tip: High heels will not work that well. Comfortable shoes are much preferable in these sokakia (narrow streets).
4. The Pedestrian Streets Add to the City’s Character
Voukourestiou Street, Ermou Street, Aiolou Street, Herakleidon Street, and Kydathinaion, all are alive pedestrian streets! There are street musicians and people having their coffee, or shopping.
Pedestrians in Athens were not always used to having control over their city streets. Over the past few years, pedestrian power is growing. Both the citizens of Athens and their guests, cannot have enough of them. Today there are numerous streets, where you can enjoy your coffee, tea, chocolate, snacks, or drinks.
Also, very close by, there are a number of shopping choices from all the prices/quality spectrum. There are high-end brands, you usually meet on the busiest roads of major European capitals. There are also second-hand opportunities with real gems hidden under piles of shoes, bags, and clothing. So many choices, so little time!
5. A Variety of High-Quality Museums is Available
Athens offers a sense of continuity.
More than 3.000 thousand years of continuous city life is an impressive fact. The city’s history is beautifully presented in the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and many more.
One should also consider visiting the following:
- Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music,
- National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens (EMST),
- Museum of Greek Folk Art,
- Museum of Natural History (although not in the center of the city it is worth the visit),
- Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, and
- Goulandris Foundation of Art and Culture for your El Greco fix.
6. The Parks and the Gardens Provide Relaxation
The National Garden surrounds what used to be Queen Amalia’s and King Othon’s Palace. Today that Palace is our House of Parliament.
The Eleftherias Park (Freedom Park), Ilissian Park, and Pagratiou Park are close to each other. On Sundays, you can see numerous Athenians and city visitors enjoy there their picnic and the usually beautiful weather.
With reference to gardens, there is also an unexpected alternative, the Japanese Garden right behind Athens National Gallery. Rocks, bamboos, and water synthesis are not what first comes to one’s mind when discussing Athens. Still, this thematic park is right there adding to the center’s distinct personality.
7. Open-Air Cinemas are a Unique Experience
One can find multiple outdoor movie theaters in the Athens center. Most of them you can pass by their entrance and barely notice them! These cinemas may be situated in a not-so-obvious garden right there in the center of the city.
They are operating in the period from late spring to throughout the summertime (May to October). One can enjoy the latest blockbuster movie or a classic rerun.
If the movie starts at 20.30 it could be that the night has not fallen yet. This may inhibit the first few minutes of the movie. But you will be enjoying your popcorn, drink, beer, refreshment, hot dog, and if you are lucky, traditional pie.
There may not be a flawless Dolby Surround Sound in all open-air cinemas either. But it is one of those experiences that will make a lovely story back home to share.
8. Vivid and Safe Nightlife for All
Athens center is full of numerous choices. You can go out to have a drink, or eat traditional Greek cuisine. You may also dance in a noisy club up until the early morning hours.
During the off-season months, (November to March), clubs are open in the Thursday-Friday-Saturday part of the week. But one can always choose from a number of interesting alternatives.
People also enjoy late noon options in numerous “koutoukia” which are traditional small taverns. There you can go for a late morning coffee around 12.00 noon. Then you proceed with ouzo and meze, a famous greek drink, and small plates of delicious food to accompany it. Overall, you stop drinking eating, and many times dancing when you decide you have had enough.
“We are closing” is not a phrase you often hear in Greece.
9. Monastiraki Flea Market for Memorable Shopping
Right next to Monastiraki Square is the Market. If someone expects to see a true Flea Market she/he will be surprised. The shops are well-organized and there are numerous high-end brands.
People ask and often get “a better price”. But there is not the price negotiations ritual you would expect in true Flea Markets in other countries.
Still, the environment is very traditional. So if one visited on any Sunday morning she/he will witness Athenians who buy and sell. There are also tourists who get some very good deals and souvenirs and enjoy the experience.
10. The Athenian Light is Impressive
I used to be a skeptic about it. Most of us tend to be biassed when it comes to the city we love. So whenever someone boasted about the uniqueness of the Athenian light, I thought it was an exaggeration.
And then I started traveling.
Today, after having visited numerous countries on three continents, my view has changed. I am positive that there is something different when it comes to the light Athens enjoys. A clear blue sky and a friendly atmosphere in the Athens day or night sky is the norm.