The historic center of Athens, contrary to what you’d think, has little to do with ancient ruins. Rather, the terms refers to the Commercial Center or “triangle” of Athens, for the way that Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares are positioned on the map. This area has been the center of the social, financial, political, entertainment and cultural life of Athens for over 170 years. Today, a stroll through the historic center connects the present with the near past, and reveals hidden parts of the city, dressed in the colours of a multicultural society. Traffic is round-the-clock on the center’s side streets: when the shops close, the district transforms into a hip strip of bars and ethnic eateries.
Ermou Street, a pedestrian walkway, is the main shopping street of the city, connecting Syntagma Square with Monastiraki Square. Next, Athinas Avenue is the bustling street that connects Monastiraki Square with Omonia Square. Finally, Stadiou & Panepistimiou streets connect Omonia Square back to Syntagma Square, to form the triangle.Along Panepistimiou, you pass by The Stunning Neoclassical Trilogy that Athens is known for.
Syntagma Square is home to the Greek Parliament building. This is the meeting place of Athenians, usually referred to simply as ‘the centre’. Because Syntagma is in the middle of downtown Athens, it is within walking distance to the main attractions and museums. It is outside the Parliament building where you can watch the “Changing of the Guards” ceremony on Sundays, featuring guards in traditional Greek military dress.
The Stunning Neoclassical trilogy (Panepistimiou street). This wonderful 3-building complex encompasses the University of Athens, the Academy, and the National Library. Metro Station: Panepistimio.
Shop till you drop on Ermou (pedestrian), Mitropoleos and Aiolou (mostly pedestrian) streets. Ermou is the main shopping street, where you will find many shops and vendors. If the shopping mall is more of your style, head to Attica department store just a few minutes walking from Syntagma.
Varvakios Market or Athens Central Market: The Varvakios food market is located on Athinas street, just a short walk from Monastiraki and Omonia metro stations. People from all walks of life converge to discover the freshest and most delicious ways to prepare their meals. Make no mistake, everyone shops here, from celebrity chefs to neighborhood grocery store owners and regular people who do their home shopping.
Omonia square. Omonia is one of the oldest squares in the city, and where you go to feel Athens’ urban pulse. There are no bars or cafes to linger at; no shady trees to shelter under. For Athenians, Omonia Square is a meeting point and a multicultural area on the brink of change.
Agia Eirini square. This beautiful and vibrant square used to be the home of the city’s flower market. Only a couple flower vendors remain, as the rest have been replaced by café bars & eateries, becoming one of the hottest spots in town. Easy to reach no matter where you’re coming from, self-contained and peaceful, with no bothersome thru-traffic, the thriving square is teeming with life most hours of the day.
Not all visitors really explore the Historic Center of Athens and this is a miss. It is by far the favorite district of the locals, and where real life happens. This is the most “authentic contemporary” area in Athens, and in our opinion has the best restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Do allow time to explore and feel the Historic Center of Athens, and take home memorable experiences. Enjoy!
