Parks and Green Space

Illustration of a sunlit public park with pines and a path

Athens has more shade than its reputation suggests, and almost all of it is free and open.

The National Garden

156,000 square metres in the middle of Athens, laid out from 1839 as the royal garden and the only historic garden in Greece. Winding paths, ponds, a small zoo and deep shade in summer. Free, and open daily from sunrise to sunset. The main entrance is on Amalias Avenue, with six others including two from the Zappeion side. Wheelchair access from all entrances except the Vasilissis Sofias and Jean Moreas gates. Bicycles and scooters are not allowed inside.

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Filopappou Hill

The pine covered hill opposite the Acropolis, with the best free view of the Parthenon in the city, especially at sunset. Open, unfenced and free at any hour. Paved paths near the top get slippery, so wear something sensible.

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Lycabettus Hill

The highest point in central Athens, with a chapel and a view across the whole basin to the sea. Walk up from Kolonaki in about 25 minutes, or take the funicular. The walk is free, the funicular is not.

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Stavros Niarchos Park

Around the Cultural Center in Kallithea, and the largest new green space built in Athens in decades. Running track, outdoor games areas, a canal and the Great Lawn used for open air screenings. Free and open daily, with a free programme of activities on top.

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Pedion tou Areos

The big park north of the centre, laid out in 1934 to honour the heroes of the 1821 revolution. Long avenues of busts, wide paths and space to sit. Free and open, and much quieter than the National Garden.