By Georgia Skamaga
The National Observatory, Thission Visitors’ Center
It is located north of the Hill of Pnyx, where Meton used his heliotrope to conduct the first astronomical observations of the classical Greek era, and directly across the Parthenon on the Hill of the Nymphs. Discover the Geoastrophysics Museum and the Observatory Library, which house a range of scientific instruments from the 19th and 20th centuries along with historically significant books and documents.
Open-air cinemas
A movie night out! Cine Pari and Cine Thission are two of the most celebrated open-air cinemas in the city. Actually these two are the only open-air cinemas in central Athens with a stunning view to the Acropolis. The price you pay for enjoying a fantastic movie under a starry summer sky is substantial, though. You might as well turn away from the film and overlook the entire narrative.
Kerameikos
Despite being located in the center of a bustling modern metropolis, a particularly significant archaeological site is oddly enough the least frequented. Located on the northwest edge of the capital, Kerameikos was the ancient Athens cemetery. It's on your right if you follow Ermou Street past the Monastiraki train station. Its natural surroundings, which include a tiny portion of the Eridanos stream, birds, turtles, frogs, and an enormous variety of vibrant flora, prove to be equally tranquil and almost magical.
Piraiki
By the “rocks of Piraiki”, the charming, historic community east of Piraeus' main port, an eastside tale is being told. From the Naval Academy to Alexandras Square, a scenic 5-kilometer paved “vein” winds along the picturesque seashore. This route is perfect for strolls, especially in the late afternoon when the entire Attica, from Faliro to Glyfada, is covered in sunset hues. The remains of the ancient Themistoclean Wall blend harmonically in a long frame of beloved fish tavernas, coffee shops, and cocktail lounges, while vintage street lambs cast a soft yellow glow over your footsteps.
The flea-markets at Elaionas and Tavros
Every weekend the Elaionas and Tavros districts in southwest Athens are quilted with a colorful patchwork of people, boisterous voices, music, the smell of souvlaki and barbecued meat, and cars parked in total “anarchy” in all directions. The scene of a unique treasure hunt for the explorers of the “irreplaceable” includes antiques, crockery, furniture, decorative items of all kinds, vinyls, typewriters, and turntables, books and comics, clothing, shoes, jewelry, artwork and paintings, and various tools—pretty much anything you can imagine.
Cape Sounio
Situated on the southernmost tip of the Attic peninsula, you can find yourself staring at the sunset in awe, surrounded by the ancient ruins of the majestic Temple of Poseidon. The drive is just 70 kilometers from the city center, along a seaside road that reveals the bluest waters. Enjoy fresh fish and side dishes at the traditional tavernas lining the coast, or take a dip in the perfect, crystal-clear waters of the nearby beaches at Legrena or Lavrio.
The old Euripos bridge at Chalkida
It is truly amazing to watch the unique Euripos tidal phenomenon from the old sliding bridge. The unique tide effects, which occur nowhere else in the world, are on full display six to seven times a month, with the strait's current changing direction up to 14 times in a single day. The old Euripos bridge is one of the few sliding bridges still standing in the world. Chalkida is a great place for a day trip; it offers beautiful walks along the waterfront surrounded by street performers and dapper fishermen. A succession of vibrant umbrellas reveals an unending array of cafes and fish restaurants, perfect for a typical Greek hangout.
Isthmia and the Corinth Canal
The submersible bridge over the Corinth Canal is another bridge that one should absolutely “cross." In fact, there are two of these bridges: the bridge of Posidonia on the Corinthian side and the bridge of Isthmia by the Saronic Gulf, which are both surrounded by lovely neighborhood tavernas and refreshment areas. Unquestionably a must-see location is the 6.4 km long Corinth Canal, with its imposing rocky walls rising 90 meters above sea level. Through the slender 25-meter Corinth isthmus, which was formerly a crucial shipping channel leading into the Aegean Sea, the canal connects the Corinthian Gulf with the Saronic Gulf.
Parnitha Cable car
If you have some extra time while in Athens, hiking the rich pine forest along the mountain trails of Parnitha's National Park sounds energizing and very intriguing—not just for the unique landscape with its incredibly rich flora and fauna, but also for the exuberant view of Attica, far, far away. You have two options for getting to this amazing summit: drive your own vehicle or, for the ultimate thrill, take the cable car. The “Mont Parnes” Casino is the first and only stop. It is a worthwhile “adventure” to walk the mountain paths to the two stunning refuges of Bafi and Flabouri or to test your luck.
The beach at Varnavas
White sand and remarkably pristine deep blue waters. The picturesque village of Varnavas is located about 12 kilometers from one of the most stunning and spotless beaches in all of Attica where you’ll enjoy cool swims and fresh fish at the neighborhood tavernas. An excellent chance to explore the historical sites nearby, including the church dedicated to St. Peter and Paul and the Archaic tower dating back to the fifth century BC.
