Best Parks & Green Spaces in Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, Athens, Outdoor & Adventure, Best Parks & Green Spaces

Best Parks & Green Spaces in Athens, Greece

1. National Garden of Athens

A tranquil oasis in the heart of Athens, home to a variety of flora and fauna, featuring the beautiful Zappeion Hall.
  • Historic Site: Houses the Zappeion Hall, a significant landmark for Athenian events.
  • Botanical Wonders: Hosts over 6000 plant species from all around the world.
  • Central Location: Located near many tourist attractions such as the Acropolis and the Parliament.

2. Philopappou Hill

Offers stunning views of the Acropolis and Athens cityscape, with a peaceful Monastery and the impressive Philopappos Monument.
  • Panoramic Views: Provides an unrivaled view of Athens and its ancient landmarks.
  • Historical Monument: Features the Philopappos Monument, a funerary monument dedicated to a prominent Roman senator.
  • Quiet and Peaceful: Ideal for relaxation and escape from the city bustle.

3. Psyrri Square

A vibrant, pedestrianized square filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants, surrounded by historical buildings.
  • Lively Atmosphere: Perfect for socializing and people-watching.
  • Culinary Delights: Variety of local cuisines to sample in a lively setting.
  • Nightlife Hub: Transforms into a bustling nightlife district after sunset.

4. The Forest of Nymphs (Lycabettus Hill)

A picturesque pine forest on the highest peak of Athens, offering panoramic city views and a serene escape.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers an unrivaled view of Athens and its surrounding landscape.
  • Romantic Destination: Mythologically associated with the nymphs who cared for Pan, the Greek god of shepherds.
  • Peaceful Retreat: A tranquil escape from the city center, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic.

5. Athens Riviera (Vouliagmeni)

A stunning coastal stretch featuring beaches, marinas, and upscale restaurants, offering a unique blend of sea, sun, and city.
  • Coastal Beauty: Stretch of coastline with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Upscale Dining: Home to many high-end restaurants, ideal for a special meal.
  • Water Sports: Offers various water sports activities such as jet-skiing and parasailing.

6. Athens Oak Forest (Dimitrios Pikionis)

A beautiful oak forest with unique landscaping, leading to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
  • Nature Trail: An easy hike through a forested area with beautiful views.
  • Historic Landmark: Leads to the Temple of Poseidon, an ancient Greek temple on the Sounion promontory.
  • Photography Opportunities: Offers scenic and picturesque views of the Aegean Sea.

7. Agios Kosmas - Agios Ioannis beaches

A series of sandy beaches in a residential area with crystal-clear waters and ample amenities.
  • Beach Getaway: Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports.
  • Local Life: Provides a glimpse into the daily life of Athenians living near the coast.
  • Family-Friendly: Offers a safe and clean environment for families with children.

8. Plaka neighborhood

A historic neighborhood filled with narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and souvenir shops.
  • Authentic Athens: Home to many traditional Greek tavernas and souvenir shops.
  • Archaeological Wonders: Near the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and other ancient sites.
  • Pedestrian Friendly: Most streets are pedestrian-only, making it easy to explore on foot.

9. The First Cemetery of Athens

An old and peaceful cemetery filled with unique architecture and historic tombstones.
  • Historic Site: Final resting place for many famous Greeks, including Ioannis Kapodistrias and Alexandros Soutsos.
  • Architectural Marvels: Features a variety of architectural styles from different eras.
  • Quiet Reflection: A peaceful place for quiet reflection and introspection.

10. Keramikos Cemetery

An ancient cemetery with a museum showcasing artifacts from the burial site.
  • Historical Significance: One of the most important cemeteries in Athens, dating back to the Archaic period.
  • Museum Experience: Includes a museum with artifacts excavated from the site.
  • Walking Tour: Offers guided walking tours through the cemetery and its surrounding area.

11. National Archaeological Museum

The largest archaeological museum in Greece, featuring artifacts from various archaeological sites throughout the country.
  • Artistic Masterpieces: Houses the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism.
  • Historical Insight: Provides insight into ancient Greek civilization and its artistic achievements.
  • Educational Resource: Ideal for history enthusiasts, educators, and families with children.

12. The Acropolis of Athens

An ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city, home to several significant buildings such as the Parthenon.
  • Historical Icon: One of the most famous landmarks in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Architectural Marvels: Features iconic structures like the Parthenon, the Propylaia, and the Erechtheion.
  • Cultural Significance: Symbolizes the birthplace of Western civilization.

13. Ancient Agora

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and numerous other archaeological treasures.
  • Historical Significance: Once the center of political life in ancient Athens.
  • Architectural Wonders: Includes the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved temples in Greece.
  • Educational Resource: Ideal for history enthusiasts and families with children interested in ancient Greece.

14. The Temple of Olympian Zeus

An impressive ancient temple dedicated to the king of the Greek gods, Zeus, featuring over fifteen colossal columns.
  • Historical Significance: One of the largest temples in Greece and a symbol of Athenian power during the Roman era.
  • Architectural Marvels: Features over fifteen colossal columns, each standing around 17 meters tall.
  • Photography Opportunities: Offers scenic and picturesque views of the temple and its surroundings.

15. The Panathenaic Stadium

An ancient stadium originally built for the Panathenaic Games in 330 BC and renovated for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
  • Historical Significance: One of the oldest stadiums still in use today.
  • Sporting Events: Hosts various sporting events, including the Athens Marathon and the Greek League basketball games.
  • Photography Opportunities: Offers scenic and picturesque views of the stadium and its surroundings.