Background

Athens National Garden: A Royal Oasis

Discover a royal legacy in Athens' National Garden: a green oasis with diverse flora, tranquil ponds, and historical echoes in the city center.

4.6

Escape the Athenian bustle in the National Garden, a verdant oasis commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838. Explore diverse flora, tranquil ponds, and historical remnants in this 15.8-hectare urban retreat, originally the Royal Garden and opened to the public in 1927.

A brief summary to Athens National Garden

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Take advantage of the free admission to explore the garden's diverse flora and historical features.
  • Bring snacks and water, especially if visiting with children, as there are limited options inside.
  • Check out the Children's Library (open weekdays) for a quiet escape and a selection of books.
  • Keep an eye out for the various bird species and other wildlife that call the garden home.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk north towards the Hellenic Parliament building. The main entrance to the National Garden is located to the right of the Parliament. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro lines 2 or 3 to Syntagma station. Exit the station and walk towards the Hellenic Parliament building. The National Garden entrance is located to the right. A single metro ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Ask to be dropped off at the National Garden next to the Hellenic Parliament on Leof. Vasilissis Amalias. A short taxi ride from most central locations will cost approximately €8-€11, including the base fare of €1.80 and a per-kilometer charge. Note that taxi fares increase between midnight and 5 am.

Unlock the Best of Athens National Garden

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Athens National Garden

The National Garden, a 15.8-hectare green space in the heart of Athens, offers a serene escape from the city's vibrant energy. Originally commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838 and completed in 1840, it served as the Royal Garden before being opened to the public in 1927. German agronomist Friedrich Schmidt imported over 500 plant species from around the globe to create this verdant sanctuary. The garden boasts over 7,000 trees, 40,000 shrubs, and 519 plant species, including both native Greek varieties and exotic imports. Key features include the grand Washingtonia palm trees planted by Queen Amalia herself, a small zoo, a botanical museum, and the Peisistratos aqueduct, rediscovered in 1860, which still irrigates the garden. Visitors can also discover ancient ruins, a Roman villa mosaic, and busts of prominent figures like Ioannis Kapodistrias and Dionysios Solomos. The garden's design reflects 19th-century landscape architecture, featuring winding paths, open views, and tranquil nooks. It provides a refreshing contrast to the surrounding urban environment, offering a space for relaxation, recreation, and exploration. The Zappeion Hall, while officially separate, extends the garden's ambiance with its own gardens and historical statues.

Popular Experiences near Athens National Garden

Popular Hotels near Athens National Garden

Select Currency