Breathtaking views over Athens
Thanks to its rich morphology Athens has plenty of places where you can admire stunning panoramic views of the city. Romantic or not, let yourself be captivated by the Athenian cityscape as seen from above.Lycabettus Hill
Near Kolonaki area is situated the famous Lycabettus Hill, at 277 meters high above sea level. Legend has it that wolves used to seek refuge on this hill. That probably explains its name "Lycabettus: the hill walked by wolves". A funicular at the bottom of the hill (on Ploutarhou Street) takes you to the top, but there is also a road to drive up. Those who love hiking may also choose to walk! Whichever your preference, you will be rewarded with a 360˚ view of the city sprawling below, especially on a clear day. The panoramic view from the top just sweeps you away: Mount Parnes to the north, Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf to the west, whereas Acropolis stands imposingly before your eyes. An open cafe and a luxurious restaurant offer you hot or cold drinks, and fine meals.
Filopappou Hill
Filopappou Hill, 147 m. high, was known in ancient Greece as the Hill of the Muses. It is located in a very central point of the city (metro station Thissio or Acropolis), to the southwest of the Acropolis. You can only reach the top on foot. Enjoy a great view of the Acropolis, a panoramic view of the whole city, and the Aegean Sea surrounding Attica. A paved path starts from Filopappou and leads to the Pnyx Hill, where the great orators of the antiquity, like Pericles, Demosthenes and Aristides, delivered powerful political speeches. On the far side of the hill, the Dora Stratou Theatre hosts folklore dancing performances. Close to the hill you will also find the National Observatory, an astronomy and seismology scientific institute, as well as the church of Saint Marina.
Kaisariani Monastery
The Monastery lies to the eastern side of Athens, on a hillside at the foot of Mount Hymettos, a few miles away from the suburb of Kaisariani. It was actually built in the 11th century over the ruins of an ancient temple of Aphrodite. Probably its position was chosen because of the spring existing there, part of the River Ilissos that in antiquity flowed through Athens. Enjoy the idyllic scenery created by the cypresses, olive groves and wild flowers as well as a bird’s eye view to the city of Athens and the Saronic Gulf. The chapel of St. Marcus is considered to be the spot where the view is simply outstanding! Kaisariani is about 7 km far from the city centre. If you do not have a car, you can reach Kaisariani by public transport (buses 732 or 224 from Syntagma Square), and then reach the Monastery on the top of the hill by taxi.
Anafiotika, Plaka
The most picturesque, romantic and nostalgic neighbourhood of Plaka is certainly Anafiotika, situated directly under the north section of the Acropolis. Its white-washed houses with the blue doors, the stone walls and the small cute gardens create the impression of a Cycladic island, or an isolated village in the middle of the city. The Cycladic architectural style of Anafiotika is attributed to its first inhabitants, craftsmen from the Cycladic island of Anáfi. The view of Plaka and Lycabettus from specific locations of the settlement is simply spectacular!
Profitis Elias (Prophet Elias), Piraeus (in the west side of Kastella Hill)
Kastella, built on a hill called “Profitis Elias”, is the most elegant neighbourhood of Piraeus. Walk to the top of the hill and admire the breathtaking view of Mikrolimano, the Piraeus Port and the Saronic Gulf. At night the view is really sweeping: the sight of the Acropolis lit up and the sparkling lights all over Athens will thrill the romantic hearts! Piraeus is easily accessible by subway (line 1, terminal station).
Damari, Petroupoli
The Municipality of Petroupoli is situated on the west side of Attica. In Damári you can enjoy a panoramic view of the whole city that will take your breath away, especially at night! There are some beautiful cafés up there as well as the “Petra Theatre”, where you can attend, especially during summertime, various concerts or plays. In order to reach Damari, take the metro to “Attiki” station (line 2) and then the bus A11 or 747 or 719 to the terminal station.
