Plaka is a district close to the Acropolis and its many connected archaeological sites that is one of the oldest area of Athens, Greece. This beautifully preserved historic quarter of the city is like a labyrinth and one becomes easily lost in her picturesque winding lanes but that's perfectly okay as it is a wonderful and scenic place to spend some time. Full of traditional-style houses, pretty neoclassical buildings, colourful little stores and restaurants and hanging plants, it is somewhere to browse shops, pop into galleries, grab a bite to eat and take in the general atmosphere of the place. If you have found a vacation rental in Attica and are planning on spending time in Athens, this is one of the must-see areas of the city.
In the last post, we introduced some of the highlights and our guide to the district. Now that you know which museums to visit and where to shop, there are many more activities to enjoy while in Plaka and here are our tips for making the most of your trip to the area.
In the last post, we introduced some of the highlights and our guide to the district. Now that you know which museums to visit and where to shop, there are many more activities to enjoy while in Plaka and here are our tips for making the most of your trip to the area.
4. The Atmosphere
Rather than particular sights, the atmosphere of Plaka is one of its main selling-points. Let yourself relax and enjoy your surroundings and take it all in. Adjust to the pace of life and breathe a little deeper and make sure to look around. The Plaka is full of street musicians, flower sellers, photographers and merchants selling various kinds of crafts and souvenirs like your name written on a grain of rice and fuzzy marionettes. Enjoy the sounds and colours of this unique place.
5. The Cine Paris
The Cine Paris is the best outdoor movie theater in Athens, located on a roof with a view of the Acropolis and largely shows movies in English with Greek subtitles. Grab a drink in the bar, pick up a Greek version of a movie poster as a unique souvenir and enjoy this very special movie experience.
6. Remember
This unique shop was the first punk store in Greece and is an institution that is run by designer Dimitris Tsounatos and has been visited by endless famous rock stars, actors, fashion designers and models over the years. We may have already discussed shops but I felt this special place deserved a mention of its own and is a must for rock and/or fashion lovers exploring the area.
7. Archaeological Sites
Plaka, like Athens in general, has quite a few archaeological sites, among them is the Tower of the Winds, which is a part of the ancient Roman Agora. Believed over the years to have been place of great magic, it was actually a meteorological station built in the first century by the Syrian Astronomer Andronikos Kyrrhestes. Keep your eye out for other sights and cultural gems as they are sprinkled around the area.
This guide was partially inspired by Matt Barrett's Athens Guide, where he has a very thorough and vibrant introduction to the area that is filled with unique tips, lots of personality and plenty more information. As you can see, there are endless reasons to visit so make sure to find time to explore Plaka when you are in Athens!
Rather than particular sights, the atmosphere of Plaka is one of its main selling-points. Let yourself relax and enjoy your surroundings and take it all in. Adjust to the pace of life and breathe a little deeper and make sure to look around. The Plaka is full of street musicians, flower sellers, photographers and merchants selling various kinds of crafts and souvenirs like your name written on a grain of rice and fuzzy marionettes. Enjoy the sounds and colours of this unique place.
5. The Cine Paris
The Cine Paris is the best outdoor movie theater in Athens, located on a roof with a view of the Acropolis and largely shows movies in English with Greek subtitles. Grab a drink in the bar, pick up a Greek version of a movie poster as a unique souvenir and enjoy this very special movie experience.
6. Remember
This unique shop was the first punk store in Greece and is an institution that is run by designer Dimitris Tsounatos and has been visited by endless famous rock stars, actors, fashion designers and models over the years. We may have already discussed shops but I felt this special place deserved a mention of its own and is a must for rock and/or fashion lovers exploring the area.
7. Archaeological Sites
Plaka, like Athens in general, has quite a few archaeological sites, among them is the Tower of the Winds, which is a part of the ancient Roman Agora. Believed over the years to have been place of great magic, it was actually a meteorological station built in the first century by the Syrian Astronomer Andronikos Kyrrhestes. Keep your eye out for other sights and cultural gems as they are sprinkled around the area.
This guide was partially inspired by Matt Barrett's Athens Guide, where he has a very thorough and vibrant introduction to the area that is filled with unique tips, lots of personality and plenty more information. As you can see, there are endless reasons to visit so make sure to find time to explore Plaka when you are in Athens!