Green Oases

Parks, the few green spaces within the concrete jungle of Athens, provide shade and fresh air to those roasting under the Mediterranean sun. Dispersed throughout the city, parks large and small offer trails for runners, benches for picnics, and open spaces for dogs to romp around. In some, you might even find remnants of ancient ruins.

By IsABeLLe CLAyToN

Akademia Platonos

The National Garden The National Garden, once the Royal Garden, was created by Queen Amalia in the 19th century. Now, it stands as one of the largest gardens in Athens, with fish-filled ponds, networks of winding gravel paths, a Botanical Museum, a playground, and a zoo. Dispersed among its myriad flowers and shrubs, including the iconic acanthus, ancient ruins serve as places for people to sit and enjoy the shade.

Zappeion Garden For many Athenians, Zappeion Garden is a relic of their childhood. This green space surrounds the Zappeion Megaron, a remarkable piece of architecture used for large events, conferences, and exhibitions. On the weekends, children play among the garden’s 23 marble statues, and old friends catch up at the café or restaurant located within its wide, sand-colored paths.

Diomidous Botanical Gardens

The Diomidous Botanical Gardens will be the plantlover’s paradise. As the largest garden in Athens, and the largest botanical garden in Greece, this expansive green space hosts over 2,500 species of native and global plants. The garden is organized by both plant type and region, with notable exhibitions of medicinal florae and trees from around the world. Classicists will enjoy the garden for its section of historically significant plants, like the Laurus nobilis (Apollo’s laurel), and the Paliurus aculeatus (used to weave the thorn crown of Jesus).

Lycabettus Hill For an incredible birdseye view of the ancient city, Lycabettus Hill is a must see. The arduous climb to the top of the hill is offset by unbelievable views of the ancient Acropolis and the serene Saronic Gulf. For those hesitant to make the trek, the summit is also accessible by car or funicular railroad. At the top, visit the quaint church of Saint George or watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea. And, if your hike has stirred your appetite, multiple bars and restaurants are perched atop the hill, including the famed Orizontes. Pedion tou Areos: With a plethora of wildlife and monuments in tribute to the Greek heroes of the War of Independence, Pedion tou Areos is often referred to by locals as simply, the Park. Thanks to recent renovations, the park offers long, tree-lined stone pathways, perfect for both runs and long walks. However, due to its proximity to Omonia Square, it is recommended that you avoid this area in the evenings and early mornings.

Philopappou Hill When key figures of Greek antiquity, including Aristides and Pericles, would address political matters to the public atop Philopappou Hill, it was known as the Hill of the

©Thanasis Kara T zas

Muses. However, upon the death of Prince Gaius Julius Antichus Philopappos, a Roman exile and major benefactor of the ancient city, a monument was erected atop the hill in his honor. With its close proximity to the Acropolis, people climb Philopappou Hill for mesmerizing glimpses of the Parthenon and the Mediterranean coast. Lesser known but equally incredible sites on the hill include the prison of Socrates and the Dora Stratou Theater.

Akademia Platonos In 387 B.C., Plato founded his Academy. Over 2 millennia later, a park marks the ground of this great philosophical center, with archeological remains decorating its meandering paths and green expanses. While it has become a popular site for picnics and Sunday strolls, the academic legacy of Akedemia Platonos endures through sporadic art exhibitions, workshops in philosophical thinking, and a Digital Museum at the park’s center. Garden of the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron): Offering not only cool respite from the Athens heat, the Garden of the Athens Concert Hall, Megaron, provides an opportunity for an immersive cultural and musical experience. From wandering through outdoor art exhibitions to listening to poetry or jazz performances as you lie in cleancut grass, this garden is surely a favorite summer destination for both locals and tourists. Dexameni Dexameni is a local favorite, offering shade, drinks, and a perfect atmosphere for people-watching. For those planning on enjoying a movie or concert at the nearby Dexameni Outdoor Cinema, stop at this outdoor café for a delicious bite to eat.

Parko Eleftherias Parko Eleftherias is a serene section of green space with an incredible political and military past. Named Freedom (Eleftherias) Park, its monuments, Arts Center, and museums pay tribute to those who served and died here throughout the Balkan Wars and Greek military dictatorship. The park is also home to a beloved eatery, functioning as a café during the day and a lively bar throughout the night.

©yannis papanas T asopoulos/unsplash

Philopappou Hill

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural

Center (SNFCC) In clear contrast to the classical architecture of Athens, SNFCC serves as a modern academic and civic hub, as well as an expansive green space within the city. The Stavros Niarchos garden is home to a rich variety of florae, including a collection of aromatic plants which only add to the tranquility of this green oasis. Moreover, its playgrounds and water jets make this a beloved garden by the children of Athens.