19th-Century Athens

A stroll through the centre of Athens reveals the city as it appeared in the 19th and early 20th centuries. From Syntagma Square to the University, we step into the architectural beauty of neoclassical buildings and timeless monuments. This is where we start our trip.

Route | Estimated time: 3-4 hours

Our walk starts from “Syntagma Square” Metro Station located in the centremost square in Greece, where an archaeological site is still active. Syntagma Square is where many major events of the country’s social, political, cultural and financial life have taken place. Directly opposite the square is the Old Palace, currently housing the Hellenic Parliament; the Monument of the Unknown Soldier is at its front entrance. Take some pictures, feed the pigeons and wait for the changing of the guard. It is well worth the wait.

We then walk to Panepistimiou Street to admire the Hotel “Grande Bretagne”, where the glamour of a bygone era is perfectly preserved. A few steps further, we turn onto the Voukourestiou pedestrian street and there, to our left, we see the famous café “Athénée Athens” (former Café “Zonar’s”), the Spyromiliou-Citylink Arcade and the “Pallas” Theatre. We may stop at one of the beautiful bistros to taste French macaroons. In the arcade, we can admire the new installations before shopping around the luxurious stores, which offer top brands of clothing, accessories and cosmetics.

We return to Panepistimiou Street and stroll to Iliou Melathron, home of the Athens’ Numismatic Museum, with its collection of ancient coins. We’ll also visit one of its greatest treasures, the charming garden café.

Our trip continues along Panepistimiou Street, past the Archaeological Society, to St. Dionysius Areopagite Catholic Church, which faces the imposing National Bank of Greece building. Beyond the Bank of Greece are two other buildings worth admiring: on the left is Serpieri Manor, and opposite it the Athens Ophthalmology Hospital.