In Athens, the city’s squares are not just places to pass through or meet up. They have become vital parts of the city’s economy, culture, and identity. These squares are the heartbeat of Athens, shaping how its people think and live. To truly understand Athens, you need to explore these vibrant spots. We’ve selected some of Athens’ most iconic squares for you to visit. Here, you’ll find a mix of young energy and refined taste, where traditional settings serve as a backdrop for the unique flair of each area. Some squares are well-known landmarks, while others, though smaller, have recently become hotspots for culture and food.
Syntagma Square
Starting your tour of Athens’ squares at Syntagma Square is a perfect choice. It’s not just a square; it’s a symbol of Greece’s political history. The name “Syntagma” itself, meaning “Constitution,” commemorates the critical events of 1843 when King Otto was compelled by the people to grant Greece its first Constitution.
Dominating the square is the grand neoclassical building that once served as the royal palace and now houses the Hellenic Parliament. This building isn’t just a political landmark; it’s a cultural beacon that connects some of Athens’ most distinctive neighborhoods – Kolonaki, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psyrri. These connections make Syntagma Square a central hub, a place that’s both politically significant and a hotspot for tourists, often captured in countless photographs. As you explore this area, you’re walking through a living piece of Greek history.
The Monument of the Unknown Soldier at Syntagma Square is a must-see. Every hour, the Presidential Guard’s Evzones perform a captivating changing of the guard ceremony. This square isn’t just about politics and history; it’s also a gateway to Athens’ shopping and entertainment scene.
Directly across from the Parliament, you’ll find the impressive Grande Bretagne hotel. Together with its neighbors, the King George and NJV Athens Plaza hotels, it forms a trio of premier hospitality in central Athens.
If shopping is on your agenda, you’re in luck. Ermou Street, known for being Athens’ main shopping drag, begins on the lower side of the square. For high-end brands, Voukourestiou Street is just a short walk away. Or you could wander towards Panepistimiou Street to visit the Numismatic Museum or explore the quaint cafes and bars along the lesser-known Hephaestou pedestrian street.
And if you’re looking for a verdant place to escape the hum of the city in, the National Garden is just steps from the square, next to the Parliament building. This vast green space is home to about 7,000 trees, including stunning Washington palms, and features a lovely lake with ducks and other wildlife. It’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind after exploring the bustling square.
Omonia Square
Omonia Square, once known as Palace Square and then Othonos Square, has undergone significant transformations. It’s hard to believe that its famous roundabout and fountain were added only in the late 1950s. This square has been shaped by changes in transportation, including a major renovation in the 1930s for the electric railway station and the introduction of Metro Line 2 in the 2000s. A notable feature in the square is the “Pentacycle” sculpture by George Zongolopoulos.
In the southern part of Omonia Square, you’ll find two architectural gems: the Bagkeion and Megas Alexandros hotels, designed by Ernesto Tsiller, a key figure in modern Athenian architecture. Nearby is the National Theatre. For food lovers, there’s Lefteris O Politis for souvlaki and Dodoni’s for buttery cheese pie. Street vendors add to the square’s vibrant atmosphere, reminiscent of the popular song “Omonia,” which speaks of newspapers, koulouri (sesame bread rings), familiar faces, migrants, night owls, and the silent stories told on park benches.
Kolokotroni Square
Kolokotroni Square is anchored by the Old Parliament House, now the National Historical Museum, and a statue of General Theodoros Kolokotronis, a key figure in the Greek War of Independence. This building is a site of significant historical events, including the assassination of Prime Minister Theodoros Deligiannis and the proclamation of the first Greek Republic. Exploring its art exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, is highly recommended.
Though smaller than other squares in Athens, Kolokotronis Square is a gateway to some of the city’s best entertainment and dining experiences. The statue of Kolokotronis points towards the arcade of the legendary Galaxy bar in Stadiou Street, a cornerstone of the Athenian bar scene for over fifty years. Nearby, Stoa Bolani houses two popular bars: the Low Profile Whisky Bar and Barreldier, known for great cocktails. On the west side, “Drachma” offers a cozy spot for coffee or drinks.
For those exploring further, Praxitelous Street is home to the renowned Clumsies cocktail bar and Overoll, famous for its croissants. Seafood enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Milos restaurant, located in the Milos hotel, known for its exquisite dishes.
Kolonaki Square
Once known as Queen Olga’s Square and later as Filikis Eterias Square, this square is now commonly known simply as Kolonaki Square. This square, despite its small size, is a vital centre of political, economic, and social life in Athens.
Located at the intersection of several streets, including Skoufa, Kanari, Tsakalof, Patriarchou Ioakeim, Neofytou Vamva, Koumbari, and Kapsali, Kolonaki Square is surrounded by a vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Well-known cafes like Filion and Da Capo are not just places for coffee; they’re also key spots in the modern socio-political landscape of Athens. For food enthusiasts, there’s Baobae for quality street food, Filipou for quality family-style dining, and Ninnolo Gelato for fresh Greek milk ice cream. Don’t miss Café Rue De Marseilles, a legendary spot that reflects the diverse and inclusive character of the area.
Dexameni Square
Dexameni Square, located at the base of Lycabettus Hill in Kolonaki, is renowned for its open-air cinema and the adjoining cafe-meze hotspot. Its history traces back to the 2nd century BC with the construction of the Hadrian Reservoir, a component of the Hadrian Aqueduct built by Roman Emperor Hadrian to address Athens’ water needs. By the late 19th century, the square had become a popular gathering spot for Athens’ literary community, frequented by famous poets and authors like Papadiamantis, Varnalis, Sikelianos, and Vlachogiannis.
Nowadays, Dexameni Square maintains a peaceful yet buzzy atmosphere, a little reminiscent of a Greek village and contrasting with the bustling urban setting of Athens. During weekends especially, the square comes alive, especially around the cafe, and the playground becomes a lively spot for young people. In the summer, the open-air Cine Dexameni offers a unique movie-going experience on its terrace.
The surrounding area is also home to a variety of entertainment options. Jazz bars like Jazz ‘n’ Jazz and 56, and the St George Lycabettus’ bar-restaurant with its dreamy views, provide a taste of the local culture and cuisine, making Dexameni Square arguably one of the most charming parts of Kolonaki.
Karytsi Square
After walking past Klafthmonos Square and turning onto Christou Lada Street, you’ll find the Church of Agios Georgios Karytsis and the square named after it. The Karytsis family, significant in Athens’ history and including a 16th-century Patriarch named Theophanes Karykis, established the church in the 11th century. The church was severely damaged during the 1821 Revolution but was fully restored by 1849. Today, it stands as a focal point for the local community.
On this square, you’ll also find the renowned Theatre Mousouri. The area is steeped in history, with echoes of the past from when the Lambrakis Press Group and Estia newspaper were located on Christou Lada and Anthimou Gazi streets. Opposite the church is the Literary Society Parnassos, Athens’ first and exclusive literary club founded in 1865, which continues to host various artistic events. Another must-visit is the Museum of the City of Athens, displaying the city’s evolution and known to older residents as the “Old Palace,” the first royal residence.
For dining and entertainment, there are several excellent choices. Pairidaeza, a 20-year-old establishment, is perfect for gin and rum enthusiasts and has a great atmosphere. Its newer counterpart, 34 Athens, offers fish & chips in a beautiful courtyard. L’ Alchimiste Bistrot stands out with its exceptional bar where each cocktail comes with an amuse-bouche. Additionally, the all-day bar Bless Me Father and the unique wine bar “S’agapo” are both highly recommended for a memorable experience.
Proskopon Square
This charming area, framed by Pausanias, Arrian, and Archelaus streets, forms a neat, almost square enclosure. It rose to prominence in Athens’ cultural scene thanks to the great composer Manos Hadjidakis, who adopted Magemeno Avlo as his haunt, drawing a crowd of intellectuals and artists. Despite its modest size, the square is a hub of vibrant activity, offering a plethora of entertainment and leisure choices.
A key stop in Proskopon Square is the historic café Aerostato, beloved for its excellent coffee and relaxed ambience. It’s a favourite among both the younger and older generations. Directly opposite, Frater and Sorror presents a fine selection of gastronomic delights and a diverse cocktail menu. A short stroll away is the café Ohh Boy, a newer establishment that quickly earned a reputation for its mature and flavourful offerings.
In terms of culinary experiences, Proskopon Square has much to offer. Mavros Gatos and Mavro Provato have created a small carnivorous paradise for meat enthusiasts, while the newly established Akra is another top choice for those keen to indulge in deep Greek flavours.
Agiou Georgiou Square
Ag. Georgiou Square in Kypseli is a vibrant addition to the broader Athens area, renowned for its culinary and cultural diversity. Here, you’ll find standout eateries like Nostimies Tis Mary’s, a local favourite deeply rooted in the neighbourhood, and Kyveli, known for its consistently delectable dishes.
The true charm of Kypseli, however, lies in its multicultural community. The area is a testament to successful immigrant integration, adding a rich tapestry of cultures and colours that set it apart. A notable highlight is the Sacred Catholic Church of Saint Therese. Every Sunday, African immigrants transform the church with vibrant and spirited performances, offering a unique and lively way to celebrate their faith.
The neighbourhood’s streets are dotted with small tailoring shops run by Eastern European and Asian women, providing affordable and quality solutions for both minor and major clothing repairs. The lively atmosphere extends to the social scene, where local teenagers can be seen socialising, drinking beers, chatting, and flirting on the steps of the namesake church and around the square’s benches, adding to the lively, community-focused spirit of Ag. Georgiou Square.
Agias Eirinis Square
Where Ermou, the bustling pedestrian street, ends and meets Aiolou, you’ll find the church of Agia Eirini, a defining landmark of the square. This historic temple, inaugurated in 1850, boasts a rich history spanning over 170 years. It’s worth visiting not only for its two large murals that uniquely combine Renaissance and Byzantine styles but also for its stunning and widely admired gilded iconostasis.
The square and its surroundings are a longtime central meeting point and an anchor for the square’s diverse and intriguing hangouts. A standout venue is Booze Cooperativa. More than just a bar, it’s a cultural multi-space featuring a communal area for chess enthusiasts, presentation rooms, and a theatre. During the day, Rooster, situated in the square, is a magnet for coffee connoisseurs and people watchers, offering exceptional coffee that’s definitely worth the visit. The area also features the Christmas-themed Noel, celebrated for its retro charm and French bistro vibe. Nearby, Tailor’s House, echoing the renowned Tailor Made, presents quality comfort food and an extensive cocktail list with a focus on vodka and whiskey.
For a taste of classic Greek street food, don’t miss “Kostas,” famed for its impeccably made souvlaki, complete with freshly fried potatoes and the legendary red sauce. This spot is a must-visit for an authentic Athenian culinary experience.
Agion Theodoron Square
Agion Theodoron Square, located just below Klafthmonos Square, is gaining recognition as one of Athens’ newest and most interesting hotspots. This quaint, cobblestoned square is home to a unique brick-built, semi-submerged church, steeped in a millennium of history, with its origins debated by historians to be either 1049 or 1065 AD.
In recent years, Agion Theodoron Square has experienced a culinary renaissance. Odori, Athens’ first vermouth bar, is a standout here. It’s not just known for its extensive vermouth selection but also for its exceptional pizzas, freshly baked in a Neapolitan wood-fired oven and served at a large, impressive bar. The square also features Dopios, a modern meze restaurant tucked under the shade of a plane tree. Dopios is renowned for its focus on local products sourced from small producers across Greece.
For burger enthusiasts, a visit to Juicy Grill Athens is a must. Here, beef burgers are celebrated and offered in a variety of mouth-watering options, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors to the square. Agion Theodoron Square, with its historic charm and burgeoning food scene, is a delightful blend of past and present.
