Syntagma: The Heartbeat of Athens

Syntagma: Discover the perfect blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy in the heart of Athens. From historical landmarks to vibrant shopping streets, this district has it all.

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Syntagma

Syntagma, the beating heart of Athens, is a district that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Its centerpiece, Syntagma Square, is a pivotal meeting point for locals and tourists alike. The square is dominated by the imposing Hellenic Parliament building, where you can witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, a spectacle of Greek tradition and discipline. Walk a few steps from the square and you will find yourself in a labyrinth of bustling streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Ermou Street, one of the city's main shopping avenues, offers a mix of international brands and local boutiques, perfect for a leisurely shopping spree. The nearby National Garden provides a serene escape with its lush greenery, winding paths, and small lakes, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. Syntagma is also a gateway to some of Athens' most significant historical sites. A short walk will take you to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel featuring iconic structures such as the Parthenon and the Erechtheion. For museum enthusiasts, the nearby Benaki Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art offer rich collections of Greek art and artifacts. After a day of exploration, enjoy a meal at one of the many traditional tavernas, where you can savor authentic Greek cuisine under the shadow of history.

Local tips in Syntagma

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds at Syntagma Square.
Wear comfortable shoes as the area is best explored on foot and involves a fair amount of walking.
Don't miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of the Hellenic Parliament, which takes place every hour.
Take a break at a café in Syntagma Square and enjoy people-watching, a favorite pastime of locals.
Explore the National Garden for a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.

File:Syntagma Square Athens, Greece (44149224494).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Αρχείο:Hellenic Parliament.JPG - Βικιπαίδεια

Αρχείο:Tomb of Unknown at Syntagma Square.jpg - Βικιπαίδεια

File:Evzones at Changing of the Guard, Syntagma Square, Athens.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Αρχείο:Attica 06-13 Athens 12 National Garden.jpg - Βικιπαίδεια

File:Ermou Street on November 6, 2020.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:The Zappeion hall atrium in Athens..jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Αρχείο:Benaki Museum Athens.JPG - Βικιπαίδεια

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Athens National Garden

Discover the serene beauty of Athens National Garden, a lush green escape rich in history and tranquility, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploration.

Syntagma Square

Experience the vibrant heart of Athens at Syntagma Square, where history meets modern-day culture in a stunning urban setting.

Monument to the Unknown Soldier

Discover the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Athens, a solemn tribute to the nation's heroes and a must-visit historical landmark.

Greek Flag of Athens Acropolis

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Greek Flag of Athens Acropolis, a must-visit observation deck in the heart of Athens.

Statue of George Karaiskakis

Explore the Statue of George Karaiskakis, a monumental tribute to Greek independence and a serene spot in the bustling heart of Athens.

Roman Stoa

Immerse yourself in the historical allure of the Roman Stoa, a remarkable landmark reflecting Athens' rich architectural heritage.

Area of Stenopos Kollytos

Immerse yourself in the ancient history of Athens at Stenopos Kollytos, a captivating landmark that showcases Greece's rich cultural heritage.

Late Roman tower wall foundations

Uncover the rich history of Athens at the Late Roman tower wall foundations, a remarkable landmark showcasing ancient architectural prowess.

Plateia Syntagmatos

Explore the vibrant heart of Athens at Plateia Syntagmatos, a cultural hub surrounded by history and modern life.

Mnimio Agnostou Stratioti

Explore Mnimio Agnostou Stratioti, a vibrant town square in Athens where culture, cuisine, and community come together in a captivating atmosphere.

Unmissable attractions to see

National Archaeological Museum

Explore the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, where ancient Greek history comes alive through breathtaking artifacts and rich cultural heritage.

Syntagma Square

Discover Syntagma Square, Athens' vibrant heart, where history, culture, and modern life seamlessly intertwine.

National Historical Museum - Old Parliament House

Explore Greece's rich history at the National Historical Museum, showcasing artifacts and narratives that span centuries in Athens' Old Parliament House.

Μουσείο της Πόλεως των Αθηνών – Ίδρυμα Βούρου-Ευταξία

Explore the Athens City Museum: A journey through the rich history and vibrant art of Athens, capturing the essence of this ancient city.

Mosaic

Explore the captivating Mosaic in Syntagma, a vibrant tourist attraction in Athens showcasing intricate designs and rich cultural heritage.

J. Eynard Monument

Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of the J. Eynard Monument in Athens' National Garden, a perfect blend of culture and nature.

Essential places to dine

Tzitzikas kai Mermigas

Experience authentic Greek flavors at Tzitzikas kai Mermigas in Athens, where tradition meets creativity in every dish.

Aspro Alogo (i.e. White Horse) Traditional Greek Food

Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Aspro Alogo in Athens - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

The Greco's Project

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at The Greco's Project in Athens – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Nolan

Discover the exquisite fusion of Greek and Asian cuisines at Nolan, Athens' premier destination for food enthusiasts seeking innovation and flavor.

Athinaikon Restaurant

Experience authentic Greek cuisine in the heart of Athens at Athinaikon Restaurant - where tradition meets taste.

Ella Greek Cooking

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Ella Greek Cooking in Athens – where every dish tells a story.

Athena 's Cook

Experience the essence of Greek cuisine at Athena's Cook, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

A Little Taste of Home Restaurant

Discover authentic Greek flavors at A Little Taste of Home Restaurant in Athens, where tradition meets modern hospitality.

Cardinale Athens

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Cardinale Athens - where culinary excellence meets Athenian charm.

V1935 Roof Garden

Discover the exquisite flavors of Italy at V1935 Roof Garden while enjoying stunning views over Athens' historical skyline.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Forget Me Not

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Forget Me Not, the perfect place to find a piece of Athens to take home.

Chopard Boutique

Explore the luxurious Chopard Boutique in Athens for exquisite watches and jewelry, blending elegance with timeless craftsmanship.

ΑNAMESA CONCEPT STORE

Explore ANAMESA Concept Store in Athens, a unique blend of fashion, children's items, and artisanal coffee in an inviting atmosphere.

The Concept Store Art & Industry

Discover the charm of vintage fashion at The Concept Store Art & Industry in Athens - a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories.

september

Discover unique fashion and accessories at September, a premier clothing store in the heart of Athens, blending local style with contemporary trends.

Polo Ralph Lauren Athens

Explore timeless elegance and luxury at Polo Ralph Lauren Athens, a premier clothing store in the heart of Syntagma Square.

Nomad Concept Store

Discover the Nomad Concept Store in Athens for unique gifts and stylish clothing that celebrate Greek artistry and craftsmanship.

gouri-gouri! - Syntagma

Explore Gouri-Gouri, the charming gift shop in Athens offering unique handmade treasures and local artisan crafts.

Pinko Boutique

Explore modern elegance at Pinko Boutique, a premier women's clothing store in Athens for stylish and trendy fashion finds.

calle aristidou 1

Discover the vibrant shopping and cultural experience at Calle Aristidou 1 in the heart of Athens, surrounded by rich history and local charm.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

360 Cocktail Bar

Experience Athens like never before at 360 Cocktail Bar, where stunning views and unique cocktails create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

The Clumsies

Discover innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Clumsies, one of Athens' top cocktail bars, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

Drunk Sinatra

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Athens at Drunk Sinatra, where music and cocktails create an unforgettable experience.

Baba au Rum

Discover Baba au Rum, Athens' premier cocktail bar known for innovative drinks and an electrifying atmosphere that captures the city’s nightlife essence.

Tazza All day bistro & wine bar

Experience culinary excellence at Tazza All Day Bistro & Wine Bar in Athens, where every dish is a celebration of Greek flavors and fine wines.

The 7 Jokers Coffee & Cocktail Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The 7 Jokers Coffee & Cocktail Bar in Athens, where unique cocktails and a stylish ambiance await you.

42 Barstronomy Athens

Experience innovative cocktails and Mediterranean delights at 42 Barstronomy, Athens' premier cocktail bar and restaurant.

Kiki de grèce

Discover the essence of Greek viticulture at Kiki de Grèce, a must-visit wine bar in the heart of Athens.

THE BAR IN FRONT OF THE BAR

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bar in Front of the Bar in Athens, where unique cocktails and a lively ambiance await.

Barreldier

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Athens at Barreldier, where quality drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Syntagma

Discover Syntagma with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fige!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena yatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
- That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να χαμηλώσετε την τιμή;
  [Mporeite na hamilosete tin timi?]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
- Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 1Ένα
  [Ena]
- 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
- 3Τρία
  [Tria]
- 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
- 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
- 6Έξι
  [Exi]
- 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
- 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
- 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
- 10Δέκα
  [Deka]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Poia ine i diefthinsi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Mporeite na mou deksete (sto charti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για...)
  [Ena isitirio (gia...)]

History of Syntagma

Syntagma Square, or Constitution Square, was established in the 19th century, following the establishment of the modern Greek state. It was named after the 1843 Constitution, which was granted by King Otto in response to popular demands for political reform. This pivotal moment in Greek history was reflected in the square's design, which became a central hub for political gatherings and public demonstrations.
The Greek Parliament building, originally the royal palace, was constructed between 1836 and 1842. Its transformation from a royal residence to the seat of the Parliament marked a significant shift in Greek governance. The building stands as a testament to the evolution of democracy in Greece, with Syntagma Square serving as the backdrop for numerous historic events, including parliamentary debates and national celebrations.
Syntagma Square was the epicenter of the 1909 military coup, which aimed to address political corruption and inefficiencies in the government. The coup was initiated by the so-called 'Young Turks' of the Greek Army, leading to a significant change in political power dynamics. This event underscored the square's role as a focal point for political action and unrest throughout Greek history.
In the wake of Greece's financial crisis, Syntagma Square became synonymous with mass protests against austerity measures imposed by the government and international creditors. Starting in 2010, demonstrators gathered in the square, creating a vibrant atmosphere of activism that drew both national and international attention. The protests highlighted the square's ongoing significance as a space for civic engagement and public discourse.
Today, Syntagma Square remains a vital cultural and social hub in Athens. The square hosts various events, including festivals and public celebrations, while surrounded by significant landmarks, such as the National Garden and the Hilton Hotel. Its central location makes it a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, reinforcing its status as a symbol of modern Greek identity and civic life.

Syntagma Essentials

Syntagma is centrally located in Athens, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. The Syntagma Metro Station is on Line 3 (the Blue Line) and connects directly to the Athens International Airport, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. From other neighborhoods, you can use Metro Line 2 (the Red Line) to reach Syntagma. Buses and trolleys also service the area, with many routes passing through the central square.
Syntagma is best explored on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance. The Syntagma Metro Station provides access to the greater Athens metro system. Buses and trolleys are readily available for longer distances, with stops conveniently located near major sights. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle through one of the city's bike-sharing programs, which can be a fun way to navigate the vibrant streets.
Syntagma is generally safe for tourists; however, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in less crowded areas. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. Areas around Omonia Square, while not far from Syntagma, are known for higher crime rates and should be approached with caution.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Syntagma has several hospitals and clinics nearby, including the private Hygeia Hospital and the public KAT Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, you can find pharmacies throughout the neighborhood.
Fashion: Do dress respectfully, especially when visiting churches or official sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; if visiting a church, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Public Transport: Do give your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try local tavernas for authentic Greek cuisine. Don’t refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Syntagma like a local, visit the nearby National Garden for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which takes place every hour. For dining, seek out family-run tavernas rather than tourist spots for authentic Greek dishes. Additionally, consider visiting local markets for fresh produce and unique Greek products.

Syntagma: The Heartbeat of Athens

Local tips in Syntagma