8 Best Athens Neighborhoods for Travelers in Greece
Explore the Best Athens Neighborhoods for Your Pre-Cruise Stay
Make the most of your time in the city before setting sail on your cruise from Athens by staying in one of its unique neighborhoods. Each area offers a distinct vibe, perfect for different types of travelers. In no particular order, here are our favorite neighborhoods in Athens:
Plaka
This tourist hub is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens and is known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" for its proximity to the Acropolis. Stroll along its charming, narrow streets lined with cafes and boutiques, and explore the famous Plaka Stairs.
Ideal Traveler: The Romantic Wanderer who loves charming, picturesque streets and traditional Greek culture. Plaka’s scenic beauty and proximity to the Acropolis make it perfect for travelers who want to experience Athens' ancient history while enjoying the ambiance of a quaint village within the city.
Points of Interest
Anafiotika: A picturesque neighborhood within Plaka, known for its narrow alleys and Cycladic-style houses.
Roman Agora: An ancient marketplace featuring the Tower of the Winds and remnants of various temples.
Lysicrates Monument: A well-preserved ancient monument in the heart of Plaka.
Museum of Greek Folk Art: A museum showcasing traditional Greek crafts, costumes, and art.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~8 minutes (650 meters)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 40-50 minutes by metro or 35 minutes by car (33-36 km depending on location)
Metro Station: Acropoli or Monastiraki (Line 3 direct from the airport to Monastiraki, then a short walk)
Makrygianni
Located near the Acropolis Museum, this neighborhood combines history and modern comforts. It's ideal for families and travelers looking for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Ideal Traveler: The History Lover who wants to be close to the Acropolis and its museum. This neighborhood is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in ancient history and explore archaeological sites while staying in a quieter, more residential area.
Points of Interest
Acropolis Museum: A world-renowned museum displaying artifacts from the Acropolis.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus: An ancient stone theatre located at the foot of the Acropolis, still used for performances today.
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum: A museum dedicated to Greek jewelry and decorative arts.
Philopappos Hill: A scenic hill with walking paths offering great views of the Acropolis and Athens.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~6 minutes (500 meters)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 40 minutes by metro or 35 minutes by car (33 km)
Metro Station: Acropoli Station (Line 3 to Syntagma, transfer to Line 2)
Syntagma
As the political and commercial hub of Athens, Syntagma Square offers a mix of historical monuments and urban energy, with upscale hotels and top dining spots nearby.
Ideal Traveler: The First-Time Visitor or Luxury Traveler looking for convenience, elegance, and proximity to top attractions. Syntagma’s central location is perfect for travelers who want easy access to public transportation, luxury hotels, and key landmarks like the Parliament and the National Garden.
Points of Interest
Syntagma Square: The central square, home to the Greek Parliament and the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
National Historical Museum: A museum focusing on modern Greek history, located in the Old Parliament building.
Zappeion Hall: A large neoclassical building often used for exhibitions and conferences.
Ermou Street: A bustling pedestrian shopping street that connects Syntagma to Monastiraki.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~15 minutes (1.2 km)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 40 minutes by metro or 35 minutes by car (34 km)
Metro Station: Syntagma Station (Line 3 direct from the airport)
City Center
The heart of Athens, this area is a shopper's paradise with luxury stores, high-end restaurants, and easy access to cultural landmarks like the Acropolis Museum.
Ideal Traveler: The Culture Seeker who wants to be in the heart of Athens with access to major museums, theaters, and cultural institutions. This traveler enjoys the convenience of being centrally located, with plenty of opportunities for exploration, shopping, and dining.
Points of Interest
National Garden of Athens: A peaceful public park with lush greenery and walking paths.
Panepistimio Trilogy: A neoclassical building complex housing the Academy of Athens, the University, and the National Library.
Benaki Museum: An extensive museum showcasing Greek art, history, and culture.
Omonia Square: A historic and central square surrounded by shops and cafes.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~18 minutes (1.4 km)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 40-50 minutes by metro or 35 minutes by car (~35 km)
Metro Station: Syntagma or Panepistimio Station (Line 3 direct from the airport to Syntagma)
Monastiraki
Famous for its bustling flea markets and ancient ruins, Monastiraki blends history with a modern twist. It's a great place to explore iconic landmarks while enjoying the city's bohemian spirit.
Ideal Traveler: The History Buff and Bargain Hunter who loves being surrounded by ancient ruins while having access to markets and shopping. Monastiraki is ideal for travelers who enjoy walking to historic sites like the Ancient Agora and Hadrian's Library, while also having easy access to the city's best flea markets.
Points of Interest
Monastiraki Flea Market: A bustling marketplace offering everything from antiques to souvenirs.
Hadrian's Library: Ruins of an ancient library built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD.
Tzistarakis Mosque: A former mosque, now a museum, located in Monastiraki Square.
Ancient Agora: A large archaeological site with ruins of ancient markets, temples, and the Stoa of Attalos.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~12 minutes (1 km)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 45 minutes by metro or 40 minutes by car (35 km)
Metro Station: Monastiraki Station (Line 3 direct from the airport)
Psyri
Known for its vibrant nightlife and artistic flair, Psyri is a lively area filled with quirky bars, trendy eateries, and local artisan shops.
Ideal Traveler: The Nightlife Enthusiast who enjoys vibrant, creative, and bohemian atmospheres. This traveler loves exploring trendy bars, experiencing local street art, and being close to buzzing restaurants and cafes. Perfect for those who want to be immersed in the city's artistic pulse.
Points of Interest
Iroon Square: The heart of Psyri, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and bars.
Street Art: Psyri is known for its vibrant street art and graffiti, with murals adorning many buildings.
Taf The Art Foundation: A contemporary art gallery and event space, showcasing modern art and culture.
Agios Dimitrios Church: A beautiful, small church with traditional Greek architecture.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~20 minutes (1.5 km)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 45 minutes by metro or 40 minutes by car (35 km)
Metro Station: Monastiraki Station (Line 3 direct from the airport)
Thissio
With panoramic views of the Acropolis, lots of green space, and a laid-back vibe, Thissio is a scenic neighborhood with a mix of cafes, parks, and archaeological sites.
Ideal Traveler: The Laid-Back Explorer who enjoys a more relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the Acropolis. Thissio is perfect for travelers who prefer walking along scenic pedestrian streets, visiting parks, and dining at outdoor cafes while still being near historical sites.
Points of Interest
Temple of Hephaestus: One of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, located in the Ancient Agora.
Thissio Park: A green space with great views of the Acropolis and a relaxing atmosphere.
Apostolou Pavlou Street: A pedestrianized street filled with cafes and views of the Acropolis.
Herakleidon Museum: A museum focusing on art, science, and technology exhibitions.
Location
Walking Distance to the Acropolis: ~15 minutes (1.2 km)
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 50 minutes by metro or 40 minutes by car (36 km)
Metro Station: Thissio Station (Line 1 via transfer at Monastiraki from Line 3)
Piraeus
This is more of an honorable mention rather than a wholehearted recommendation, but if you are arriving the day before your cruise, then this bustling port area is a great option for those looking to stay close to the cruise departure point while enjoying views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Ideal Traveler: The Cruiser or Island Hopper who needs easy access to the port for ferry connections or cruises. Piraeus is best for travelers who are embarking on a cruise or exploring the Greek islands, with the convenience of staying near the port and enjoying the maritime vibe.
Points of Interest
Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: A museum showcasing ancient artifacts from the city’s maritime past.
Piraeus Port: The largest port in Greece, with a bustling harbor full of cruise ships and ferries.
Hellenic Maritime Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of Greek naval traditions.
Kastella Hill: A residential area offering panoramic views of the port and Athens.
Zeas Marina (Pasalimani): A popular marina surrounded by cafes and restaurants, perfect for a seaside stroll.
Location
Getting to the Acropolis
By Metro: About 25-30 minutes. Take Line 1 (Green Line) from Piraeus Station to Monastiraki Station (roughly 20 minutes), then transfer to Line 2 (Red Line) and get off at Acropoli Station (2 minutes). Alternatively, you can walk from Monastiraki to the Acropolis in about 10 minutes.
By Taxi/Car: Around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Travel Time from Athens International Airport: About 1 hour by metro or 45 minutes by car (43 km)
Metro Station: Piraeus Station (Line 3 direct from the airport)
Have you decided on the best neighborhood for your trip? Now, it’s time to choose your hotel, and we have a list of favorites that you must see!
Are you ready to explore Athens? Contact your travel agent today for help planning your trip at no cost to you!
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