The beauty of Athens! Plaka, the district which is spread under the northeastern hill of Acropolis, among Monastiraki, Psyrri and Syntagma square, is without doubt, the most beautiful part of the Greek capital. It was fairly named as the quarter of gods given that here, under the shadow of the Sacred Rock, ancient past meets vivid present. The biggest part of the most touristic area of Athens – along with Monastiraki, was pedestrianized in the 80s and is ideal for an atmospheric stroll that combines it all; history, nostalgia, fun, experience. After the Second World War, the buildings in Plaka were listed and the neighborhood was characterized as traditional, that is why a micrograph of Athens of the beginnings of the 20th century has managed to be preserved till today. Among paved alleys, neoclassical manors, byzantine churches, ancient monuments (see Ancient Agora, Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, Bath House of the Winds etc), museums and galleries, a wonderful blend of history, tradition and Hellenism is reflected. Start your stroll from Hadrian street, the tourist’s paradise, as most stores on both sides of the street are addressed to the foreigners. Souvenirs, leather sandals, ancient Greek-style dresses, traditional products and Greece-scented products capture the thousands of visitors who flock here. Picture changes in the heart of Plaka and Filomousou Etairia square with the café-bars, picturesque taverns and the typical barkers. The same stands for the adjacent Kidathinaion, Farmaki, Olympian Zeus and Aggelou Geronta streets. Mnisikleous street with the famous “stairs” and the cramped tables of the traditional coffee shops and Thrasyvoulou, Tripodon, Lysiou and Lysikratous streets with the typical taverns, folk music, wine and Greek meze being the leading stars. As you go up from Mnisikleous to Ragava street, pretty stores change into island houses adorned with basils and bougainvillea, narrow alleys and the shiny Athenian sun… you are found in Anafiotika, the neighborhood with the cinema setting and magical panoramic view that reminds of a great, shiny summer. This eternal Greek summer and the Cycladic white color seems that the craftsmen from Anafi had in mind when, in the mid-19th century, built their houses on the foothill of Acropolis, just like they would have done at their homeland. The whitewashed residences next to the eternal rocks and labyrinthine cobbled streets still keep their charm and Aegean aesthetics, like a vivid postcard under the insuperable Acropolis. Have a stroll at this part of Athens, discover all these and much more and you will agree with us that Plaka is true love.

At the most cosmopolitan destination of the southern suburbs, it’s always summer! Glyfada, the famous seaside suburb is synonym to sun, sea, shopping and great nightlife! The well-maintained coastline which passes next to Posidonos avenue and could easily be considered as the Athenian Riviera, the luxurious residences, commercial stores, expensive sport cars, bars and clubs together with the top music halls form the main features of the largest municipality of the southern suburbs, just 14km away from the center of Athens. The area extends from the Saronikos sea and gets up to the ending of Hymettus Mount, with Vouliagmeni Avenue being the border between Ano and Kato Glyfada.
In the ancient times, the region was called Aixone, by the red mullet which was found in abundance. The term “Glyfada” came up in the modern times and more specifically in 1920, when the first well drilling took place for covering water supply needs. It was proved that the water of the well was brackish (=glyfo in Greek), that is why the area was named Glyfada. In the beginnings of the 20th century, the entire seaside area was full of pines and totally desolate but gradually, with the population increase of Athens as well as the summer visitors in Faliro, the first summer camps started operating here and the residential area changed shape. The great progress began in the 60s with the installation of the international airport in Elliniko and the construction of public works at the coast avenue which changed completely the looks of Glyfada. It was then when small yacht marinas, snack bars and plenty of night music halls were created, fact which is connected to the proximity of the American base in Elliniko along with the prestigious Golf club of Glyfada covering over 400 acres. Glyfada keeps the glamour and glow till today, with dozens of choices for shopping, coffee, food and drink, fairly being one of the hottest destinations in the south. 

The National Garden in central Athens was commissioned by Amalia, the first Queen of modern Greece.
Upon entering the National Garden, visitors are transported to a serene haven, once known as the Royal Garden during the 1927 Republic. The lush landscape features picturesque ponds inhabited by ducks, geese, and water turtles, offering a delightful encounter with a rare Cretan goat for photo opportunities. The garden also houses various animals and free-roaming green parakeets. Adjacent to the Zappeio Megaro, a neoclassical masterpiece with a Corinthian-style propylon, a café, and a playground provide an ideal setting to unwind amid the garden's refreshing ambiance. Established in 1874 by Konstantinos Zappa and completed in 1888 by architect Theofilos Hansen, the Zappeio Megaro, initially the site of the first Olympic Village, now serves as a contemporary conference center and hosts diverse events. The charming Zappeios gardens, connected by cobbled streets, seamlessly extend the allure of the National Garden. Admission is free, welcoming visitors from sunrise to sunset.

Vouliagmeni Lake, in the heart of the Athenian Riviera, is the hidden treasure of Attica’s nature. Situated on an idyllic landscape, this rare geological phenomenon is waiting to be discovered. The lake’s brackish waters which are continuously replenished both by the sea and the underground thermal springs offer a natural and unique thermal spa experience.

The imposing rock, thermal waters, the labyrinthine underwater tunnels and the lush vegetation create a unique geological phenomenon. The lake’s present form was created after the roof of the cave fell because of erosion caused by the high temperature of the running water running. The lake is part of the National NATURA 2000 list and as a Site of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the Ministry of Culture.

At the edge of the lake, near the rocks, starts a labyrinth underwater cave which has been explored at a length of 3,123 metres, while the cave’s end remains elusive. Among the 14 tunnels which make up the cave there is one reaching 800 metres in length the longest in the world. The discovery of a huge stalagmite in the cave has opened up new theories in the research for the formation of the Mediterranean.

The aquatic paradise of Vouliagmeni Lake hosts in its green waters a variety of unique organisms. Among them, a kind of sea anemone called Paranemonia Vouliagmeniensis stands out, as well as species of sponges and molluscs which portray the perfect balance of the lake’s ecosystem. Its aquatic world also includes the known fish Garra Rufa which offer skin exfoliati.

Reference: www.limnivouliagmenis.gr

Psyri or Psiri or Psyrri or Psirri is a gentrified neighbourhood in Athens, Greece, today known for its restaurants, bars, live music tavernas, and small number of hotels.
Until the early 1990s, Psyri had a dangerous reputation, but it has now become one of the most fashionable and trendy choices in the centre of Athens for accommodation, entertainment and food hospitality.
The central square of Psyri is called "Heroes square" (plateia Iroon), because the streets leading to it carry names of heroes (Karaiskakis, Miaoulis). In the era of the 'old Athens' (namely, during the last quarter of the 19th century), the nickname "plateia of Heroes" was a derisive reference to koutsavakides, who used it as their hangout.
Lord Byron was accommodated in the neighbourhood during his stay in Athens and here is where he wrote the poem "Maid of Athens". The most famous Greek inhabitant of Psiri was Alexandros Papadiamantis who lived in the area for more than two decades.

South-West of the Acropolis is Philopappos Hill which is 147m (482ft) high and has some fantastic views of Athens and especially the Acropolis, you can even see Pireaus and the sea in the distance.
The walk up Philopappos is a bit of a trek up the small rocky path through the olive and cypress trees, it seems as if you are in the country side, not in the centre of Athens.
On your way up Philopappos you will pass a small cave which is supposed to be the prison of Socrates, but there is no proof of this, and it is much more likely to have been imprisoned in the state prison in the ancient Agora.
The hill was known as the hill of Muses in ancient times, but nowadays it is named after the concave monument of Philopappos on the summit. The monument is in honour of Caius Julius Antiochus Philoppapus who was a popular Roman Consul of Athens. The monument is 12m high and built between AD 114-16.
The hill has always had an important role in the history of Athens, especially for defending the city. The first fort on the hill was built the General Demetrios Poliorketes in 294BC as the hill over looks the Piraeus road and has been used for the same thing many times since.

Lycabettus stands as the highest hill in Athens, a natural vantage point soaring 277 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Acropolis and the Saronic Gulf. Nestled at its base lies the upscale district of Kolonaki, making it a perennial hotspot for leisurely walks and scenic pauses. The trek up Lycabettus from Dexamenis Square commences with a stop at the charming island church of Agios Isidores, a 15th-century structure gracefully perched along the rock's curvature.
Continuing the ascent, visitors will encounter the open-air modern Lycabettus Theater, erected in 1965 atop an ancient quarry. Outdoor parking is available for vehicular access to this point, but further exploration necessitates a bit of walking. The word's etymology conceals a fascinating history, with "lyc" signifying light (an archaic term), "ab" denoting an identification of horizon points (east and north), and "defeat" describing something diminutive in ancient parlance.
The theater boasts a seating and standing capacity of 6,000 spectators. During organized events, pedestrians and cyclists enjoy free access, while car entry to the theater parking is restricted to individuals with disabilities, those over 60, and taxis for pick-up or drop-off. The journey begins at the terminus of Plutarchou Street, merging with Aritippou Street in Kolonaki (closest Metro station: Evangelismos). Operating year-round, the Cable Car runs from 9:00 am to 2:30 am, with potential earlier closures in winter. Scheduled services occur every 30 minutes, with peak-hour frequencies as short as 10 minutes. Tickets are priced at 7 euros, covering both ascent and descent and offer a discount at the Lycabettus restaurant.

Located only 6 km from the centre of Athens - a city that uniquely combines ancient with modern - Flisvos Marina provides easy access to many cultural and entertainment attractions available in the rejuvenated Olympic city. The newly constructed Athens ring road and the extensive and modern public transportation system allow easy and convenient access to the Archaeological Museum as well as excursions to the Acropolis, historical sites, monuments and museums. 
Flisvos Marina provides a diversity of recreation and relaxation opportunities, while sporting enthusiasts can enjoy jogging, walking and cycling activities in a friendly and peaceful environment. 
Last but not least, Flisvos Marina is the ideal base for sea-loving voyagers eager to explore more than 3.000 Greek islands, many of which are within leisurely sailing distance.

Here beats the heart of Athens! Ermou Street is the most commercial street in the capital and at the same time one of the most expensive in Europe and worldwide. Fair got its name from the messenger of the gods and protector of Mercury commercial, along the stretch of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Pedestrian for the most part, Ermou Street starts right opposite Constitution Square, to descend to Monastiraki and result in electric railway Thissio and Asomaton Square. Grow with Vulcan Street, separating areas of Plaka, Psirri, and Thissio. In the middle of some, stands the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea, and within walking distance is the Cathedral of Athens and further along the bustling Monastiraki square and the homonymous metro station. One of the most cherished habits of Athens is the walk to the "lively" pedestrian street for window shopping in glitzy storefronts, watching the street performers, or for a break in a café.

Commencing at the 12th-century Byzantine church of Agioi Asomatoi outside Thisio station, your journey towards Monastiraki can initiate from either Ermou Street or Andrianou Street. Monastiraki Square features the typical Byzantine church of Panagia Pantanassa (Queen of All), dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It's the sole remnant of the once-grand Monastery that existed here five centuries ago. Its gradual size reduction led to the area being known as Mikro Monastiri (Monastiraki). Additions to the church were made in 1911.

In the square, you'll also find the Tzisdaraki mosque, constructed in 1759 and now serving as an annex of the Museum of Folk Art, housing a collection primarily of ceramics.

Monastiraki presents a different aspect of Athens, where locals of all ages mingle with a diverse array of tourists from around the world in the surrounding streets. Outside the train station, you'll find restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. The station, constructed in 1895 on the ancient bed of the Iridanos River, houses a small exhibition of ancient artifacts, including tombs, water and sewage systems, and more. Street artists and vendors add an alternative cultural vibe to the square.

Descending Hephaistou Street from the square leads to a lively yet quaint street that's a favorite spot for unique clothing, sandals, jewelry, and even record stores. As you arrive at Abyssinia Square, you'll step into a mid-20th-century atmosphere, surrounded by a bazaar of vintage items.

Dionysiou Aeropagitou, Athens' most charming pedestrian street, blends greenery, the Acropolis, and modernist architecture. Melina Merkouri's statue, a tribute to her fight for the Parthenon marbles, stands opposite the columns of Olympian Zeus. This lively street hosts a diverse crowd, with the walk featuring the ancient Theater of Dionysos, the Theater of Herod Atticus, and paths to the Acropolis and Filopappou. Street vendors, musicians, and artists create a vibrant atmosphere, while Pikionis' artistic paving stones enhance the timeless allure of Athens.

Syntagma Square, Athens' largest and most renowned square, is a bustling commercial and transportation center connected to Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. Buses, trams, and trolleys converge here, making it the city's busiest square with a rich historical backdrop.
The Old Palace, once the residence of King Othon, who was Greece's first monarch, is now the Hellenic Parliament building. Syntagma Square is also historically linked to the popular revolution in September 1843, led by Makrygiannis, which demanded a Constitution from the King, giving the square its name.

The square serves as the entrance to a shopping district that spans from Ermou Street in Syntagma to Plaka and Theseio. Shoppers can explore department stores, fashion boutiques, accessories, and cosmetics shops, and grab a bite to eat at various restaurants and cafes. Voukourestiou Street, the oldest pedestrian street in Athens and the most exclusive shopping avenue offers international and Greek clothing brands and fine jewelry stores.

As one travels down Ermou Street from the Thisio station, tall factory chimneys come into view on the pedestrian path leading to the Kerameikos archaeological site. During the evening, these chimneys are thoughtfully illuminated, sparking curiosity. This area is Gazi, a small district in Athens that developed around Gazochori.
Gazochori was the site of a gas plant built in 1857 to provide lighting for public streets. Although it closed for good in 1984, the scent of gas lingered in the area for years. Today, Gazochori is known as the Technopolis of the Municipality of Athens. It offers open-access spaces when no special events, exhibitions, or concerts are taking place. Visitors can find cafes, modern playgrounds, a shop, and even the opportunity to tour the old factory facilities, which include a small Light Gas Museum.
The neighborhood exudes an industrialized charm, with modern structures coexisting alongside quaint old houses. Graffiti art graces the streets around the Gazi metro station (Stasi Kerameikos), creating a captivating visual arts scene. Gazi transforms into a modern art park, offering peaceful mornings and lively evening entertainment, especially in the vibrant nightclub district along the holy road, extending into the Kerameikos and Gazi vicinity.

Kolonaki stands as Athens' aristocratic enclave, earning its name from a Roman column that once graced Filiki Etairias Square. Historically close to the Palace, this district has long attracted affluent residents, now manifesting a metropolitan allure in its streets and upscale establishments. Kolonaki hosts a plethora of companies, offices, and stylish boutiques featuring luxury brands. Renowned doctors, businesses, intellectuals, and art enthusiasts favor Kolonaki, drawn to its sophistication. The area's vibrant nightlife radiates from the central square, with Skoufa Street and Haritos housing upscale European bars amid art galleries and designer boutiques. Illuminated and opulent at night, Kolonaki boasts art museums and Dexamenis Square at Lycabettus' base, a popular Athenian meeting spot. The district harmoniously blends mansion houses, modern state embassies, and contemporary apartment buildings, epitomizing Athens' most refined and elegant neighborhood.

Embark on a unique excursion to Piraeus, which emerged as an international hub for shipbuilding and shipping in recent years. Accessible by various means of transport, Korai Square stands at the heart of Piraeus, bordered by the meticulously restored neoclassical Municipal Theater. This bustling square, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants, embodies a cosmopolitan flair and serves as a modern hub, conveniently located near ship departure gates.
The Piraeus Peninsula boasts the Zeas port (Pasalimani), featuring Marina Zeas along its eastern coast. Marina Zeas and its adjacent shops contribute to the vibrant maritime scene. Continuing along the "Akti Themistokleous" road, one encounters Freattyda Beach and the Maritime Museum of Greece before reaching Pasalimani. Votsalakia Beach, nestled between Mikrolimano and the port of Zea, offers a serene coastal escape.
Mikrolimano, an enchanting area close to the city center, provides a tranquil setting ideal for strolls, attracting visitors of all ages. The Kastela hill, adorned with Piraeus mansions, gracefully concludes at Mikrolimano via the Koumoundourou Coast. As evening falls, Akti Dilaveri, or Mikrolimano, comes to life, drawing a diverse crowd. The Port of Munich, offering an array of options, includes the Delfinario Theater for captivating performances. With its amphitheater-style houses on the hill and boats resting in the harbor, Mikrolimano paints a picturesque scene reminiscent of a theatrical setting by Tsarouchis, a beloved Piraeus painter.

Lake Marathon or the Marathon Reservoir is a water supply reservoir formed from the construction of Marathon Dam at the junction of Charadros and Varnavas Torrents near the town of Marathon, Greece. It was the primary water supply for Athens from 1931, when it became operational, until 1959. In 1959 water from Lake Yliki became available, and water from Mornos Reservoir became available in 1981.
The area of the lake at the height of the spillway of the dam is 2.45 square kilometres, the maximum depth is 54 m, the lake concentrates water from a drainage basin of 118 square kilometres with an average runoff of 14,400,000 m³ per year in an average rainfall of 580 mm per year, the average inbound volume is 12,000,000 m³ per year and the maximum reservoir capacity is 41,000,000 m³ (effective volume 34,000,000 m³).
The dam has a maximum height (from foundation to crest) of 54 m, a maximum width of 28 m at the base and 4.5 m at the crest. Its length is 285 m. The crest is 227 m above sea level, the toe is 173 m above sea level, and the spillway is 223 m above sea level. The spillway disgorges 520 m³/s. The dam is constructed from concrete and is a gravity dam. It is unique worldwide because its external cladding of white pentelikon marble is the same marble used in construction of the Parthenon and the other buildings in the Acropolis. The dam was constructed by the American firm ULEN (which had, in a BOT type contract, the ownership of the water supply company of Athens until 1974). It was constructed to meet the increased water demand caused by the rapid population increase in the Athens area following the huge influx of refugees from Asia Minor during and after the end of Greco-Turkish War (1919–1922). The construction lasted from 1926 to 1929.

Located 42 kilometres from Athens, this is where the annual Athens Classic Marathon is held to commemorate Spyros Louis’ famous victory at the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens in 1896.With 12 kilometres of sandy beach and lush greenery, Marathon is home to the only artificial lake in Attica. A result of the Marathon Dam, the reservoir supplied water to the capital until 1959.Today, the lake shore is home to an amusement park and paths ideal for walking, hiking and bicycling. Here you’ll find such renowned monuments as the Tumulus, the Museum, the Marathon Stadium, the Enoe Gorge and the Schinias Wetlands.
Reference: Wikipedia, athensattika.gr

Plato's Academy, located off Kratylou Street, is Athens' historic educational sanctuary. Over 2,500 years ago, it became the world's first university, introducing modern philosophical thought to Europe and hosting luminaries like Aristotle and Eudoxus.
Established in 387 BC, it thrived for a millennium until 529 AD when Emperor Justinian's decree closed Athens' educational institutions, marking the end of an era. This serene natural setting was Plato's choice for his school, with its origins traced back to Keramikos-Dipylon, the main gate of ancient Athens.
The site holds archaeological treasures, including one of Athens' ancient gymnasiums, sanctuaries, and altars dedicated to various gods. Plans include a modern museum integrated with the neighborhood and environment.
To acquaint visitors with Plato's legacy, the Plato Academy Digital Museum employs modern technology.
Hours:
•	Closed on Mondays
•	Tue-Sat: 9:00 - 16:00
•	Sun: 10:00 - 14:00

walk

Plaka

Glyfada

National Garden - Zappeion

Vouliagmeni Lake

Psyrri

Philopappos Hill

Lycabettus Hill

Flisvos Marina

Ermou street

Monastiraki

Dionysiou Areopagitou

Syntagma Square

Gazi

Kolonaki

Piraeus - Mikrolimano

Marathonas Lake

Akadimia Platonos