Τhere is a great number of fantastic places to chill near the Acropolis, but surprisingly, Pnyx (or Pnyka) is one of the less visited ones, especially given its historical importance. It's where the Ekklesia, the assembly of the Ancient Athenian democracy, had its meetings and where well-known orators captivated their audience.
Sitting around Pnyx, it's hard not to catch some of the direct democratic vibe. The stone vistas seem to have changed little in the interluding 2500 years that have transformed the rest of the city. The view over the Acropolis, as well as to the north and the north-west of the city and Mt. Parnitha, is one of the best in central Athens.
Unlike Areios Pagos, a similar location where most people go to enjoy the view and relax overlooking the heart of the old town but is rather bare, Pnyx is, in contrast, much quieter and has a lot of trees surrounding it. I like staying there and then, after visiting the observatory which stands in the vicinity, returning to Apostolou Pavlou St through the narrow descending streets. Perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon, together with a take-away coffee and a cigarette, if you're into these bad habits. Good company goes without saying. Try giving speeches to them while being there, you'll feel quite important!
Pnikos
€
free
Find your way with 264 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Diomidous Botanical Garden" in Athens, only 30 minutes from the centre of the city, is the largest botanical garden of the eastern Mediterranean...
by
Anglais in Athens is in Monastiraki but I barely see any foreigners. It's not just another rooftop cafe/bar — it's the best, most local of them all...
by
MOMO is a cafe/bar/restaurant in Athens with an exquisite backyard that will give you back the time that's been stolen from you...
by
Matchpoint's interior is tastefully decorated, and the music is lovely but my favorite is sitting outside enjoying my drink and watching the world go by.
by
Ode to socks has made good use of the local greek heroes such as the priest (pappa), the priest's wife, the sailor, and the fisherman, who are characteristic figures in every Greek's childhood.
by
There are always dishes of the day in addition to the set menu, so no two visits to Mandragoras are ever the same. And kontosouvli is always available.
by
It does not matter what you order when you visit Mouries because everything is made with the same care (however, my favorite dish here is the meatballs).
by
Every time I cross Evripidou Street, I am overwhelmed by the aroma of cinnamon, pepper, and oregano, and images of Eastern bazaars come to mind.
by
My two favorites are Sfakianopita with honey and the famous Dakos. Every plate is cooked in olive oil with lots of rosemary.
by
Mauricio the cat likes to carry the latest publications, bringing attention to quality and design, and often hosts events such as reading time meetings with popular authors for his little friends.
by
"Prigkiponisia" is one of my favorite pastry shops in Palaio Faliro, Athens. They're well known for their tsoureki bread & ice cream
by
264 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 264 Insider Tips