How long does it take to walk through Anafiotika?

A thorough walk through Anafiotika takes about 20 to 30 minutes. However, the full route through Plaka to the Roman Forum typically takes 90 to 120 minutes depending on how often you stop for photos.

Is the Anafiotika walking route difficult?

The difficulty is moderate. The route involves climbing several sets of stairs and navigating narrow, uneven stone paths, so it is not recommended for those with mobility issues or heavy strollers.

Can I see the Acropolis from Plaka?

Yes, almost the entire route offers stunning views of the Acropolis. The Holy Church of Saint George of the Rock provides one of the closest and most unique upward views of the ancient citadel's walls.

Is Plaka worth visiting for first-time visitors to Athens?

Absolutely, Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens and is essential for its history and charm. It contains significant landmarks like the Roman Forum and the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates.

What is the best time of day to explore Anafiotika?

Early morning (before 9:00 AM) is best to avoid the heat and other explorers. Sunset is also beautiful for photography, as the light hits the whitewashed walls and the city below perfectly.

Are there entrance fees for the landmarks in Plaka?

While walking the streets of Plaka and Anafiotika is free, specific sites like the Roman Forum and the University Museum require a ticket. Many visitors enjoy the Roman Forum from the perimeter fence for free.

Where can I find water and restrooms on this walk?

Restrooms are best found in the cafes along the Mnisikleous Stairs. You can find several kiosks (periptera) selling cold water near the start and end points of the route.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the bustling traffic of modern Athens and step into a world of whitewashed walls and winding alleys that feel more like a Cycladic island than a European capital. This self-guided walk invites you to explore Plaka, the 'Neighborhood of the Gods,' where centuries of history are layered atop one another. You will discover why this area is considered the soul of the city, transitioning from the neoclassical elegance of the first Greek university to the rustic, hidden charm of Anafiotika. This walking route is designed for those who want to experience the city at their own pace, away from the rigid schedules of a traditional guided tour Athens might offer elsewhere. Your journey begins at the foot of the Acropolis, leading you through the famous Mnisikleous Stairs, where the aroma of Greek coffee and the sound of local chatter fill the air. As you climb higher, the architecture shifts dramatically. You will find yourself in Anafiotika, a tiny cluster of houses built by masons from the island of Anafi who missed their homeland. The narrow passages, blooming bougainvillea, and sleeping cats create a peaceful atmosphere that few visitors ever find. This neighborhood stroll is a photographer's dream, offering unique vantage points of the city skyline and the ancient ruins nearby. Beyond the 'island' vibes, the route delves into the rich archaeological heritage of the area. You will encounter the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, a stunning example of ancient theatrical patronage, and conclude your exploration at the Roman Forum. This self-guided adventure provides the flexibility to linger at a viewpoint or stop for a frappe whenever you choose. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for the most instagrammable corners of Greece, this walking tour Athens experience delivers a perfect blend of culture and aesthetics. Discover the stories of the people who built these homes and the ancient legends that still haunt these stones, all while enjoying the independence of a self-guided adventure.

Highlights

Explore Anafiotika, a hidden 'island' village tucked beneath the Acropolis

Climb the iconic Mnisikleous Stairs and soak in the vibrant Plaka atmosphere

Visit the site of the first university of independent Greece

See the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, the first exterior use of Corinthian columns

Enjoy panoramic views of Athens from the Holy Church of Saint George of the Rock

End your journey at the historic Roman Forum and the Tower of the Winds

Tour Stops (6)

Athens University History Museum

Start your journey at the Cleanthes House, which served as the first university of the modern Greek state from 1837 to 1841. This beautiful neoclassical building is one of the few surviving residential structures from the Ottoman period. As you stand before it, imagine the excitement of a newly independent nation establishing its intellectual center right here at the foot of the ancient Acropolis. The museum today houses rare manuscripts and scientific instruments, but even from the outside, its architecture tells a story of rebirth. It sets the stage for our walk, representing the transition from ancient glory to a modern European identity.

The Mnisikleous Stairs

Welcome to one of the most photographed spots in Athens. These steps are the heart of Plaka's social life. Lined with small tables and cushions from local tavernas, the stairs are a masterclass in vertical urban living. As you walk up, notice how the cafes utilize every inch of space. This area highlights the 'vibrant' side of Athens, where the ancient and the modern coexist seamlessly. It is a place to see and be seen, but it also serves as the gateway to the quieter, more residential upper reaches of the neighborhood. Take a moment to enjoy the rhythmic sounds of Greek life before we head into the silence of the 'island' above.

Anafiotika

You have now entered a secret world. In the mid-19th century, master masons from the island of Anafi were brought to Athens to build the King’s palace. Homesick and needing a place to stay, they built this tiny neighborhood overnight, following the traditional architecture of their home island to bypass strict building laws. With its whitewashed walls, tiny blue doors, and narrow, winding paths, Anafiotika is a literal piece of the Cyclades in the shadow of the Parthenon. Please remember that people still live here; the silence is part of the charm. This is the ultimate hidden gem, where the urban grid of Athens simply disappears.

Holy Church of Saint George of the Rock

Perched on the eastern edge of the Acropolis rock, this small, single-aisled basilica dates back to the 17th century. Its name, 'of the Rock,' is literal, as the structure feels like it is emerging from the limestone itself. This spot offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city, stretching toward the Lycabettus Hill and the Aegean Sea. The church serves as a spiritual anchor for the residents of Anafiotika. Its simple, humble facade contrasts with the monumental ruins just a few meters above, reminding us that for centuries, Athens was a collection of small, devout communities living among the giants of the past.

Choragic Monument of Lysicrates

As we descend back toward the main streets of Plaka, we encounter this circular monument, which is far more important than its size suggests. Built in 334 BC, it was erected by a wealthy patron of the arts named Lysicrates to display the bronze trophy he won as a 'choregos' (sponsor) of a theatrical performance. This is the first known building in history to use the Corinthian order on its exterior. During the Ottoman era, it was incorporated into a Capuchin monastery and even served as a library where Lord Byron stayed. It is a survivor of time, standing as a testament to the long-standing Greek tradition of honoring the arts.

Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora)

Your walk concludes at the Roman Forum, the commercial heart of Athens during the Roman period. Unlike the ancient Greek Agora, this was a centralized market built with funds from Julius Caesar and Augustus. The most striking feature here is the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal marble structure that served as a sundial, water clock, and weather vane. It is considered the world's first meteorological station. Standing here, you can see the layer cake of Athenian history: Roman columns, Byzantine influences, and Ottoman additions like the Fethiye Mosque. It is the perfect place to reflect on how this city has reinvented itself time and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Anafiotika route is widely considered the best for hidden gems. This self-guided walk takes you through a 19th-century 'island' village built by Cycladic masons, offering a quiet escape from the main tourist paths of Athens.