In the shadow of the Acropolis, the neighborhoods of Plaka and Anafiotika reveal a layered, almost paradoxical charm. The streets of Plaka buzz with life, filled with travelers and Athenians alike, all weaving through an intricate tapestry of neoclassical buildings, artisanal shops, and Byzantine churches. Just above, Anafiotika offers a hidden slice of the Cyclades, where narrow lanes and whitewashed facades evoke a quieter, island-like beauty.

Ancient Echoes in Plaka and Anafiotika

Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods, a place where ancient stones stand side-by-side with neoclassical facades and Ottoman relics. Known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” its foundations stretch back to Athens’ classical era. Each corner holds a trace of the past, from centuries-old Byzantine chapels to the renowned Lysicrates Monument, which commemorates a wealthy sponsor of Athenian theater.

In Anafiotika, a small district on the Acropolis’ northern slopes, stonemasons from the island of Anafi recreated a taste of home in the 19th century, crafting small, whitewashed houses that stand as a quiet homage to their Cycladic roots. The charm here is both earthy and elegant, with blooming bougainvillea and steps that lead to sweeping city views.

Essential Landmarks

• Lysicrates Monument: This 4th-century BCE choragic monument honors a theater patron and stands as one of the rare architectural remnants of its kind.
• Hadrian’s Arch: A gateway erected in honor of Emperor Hadrian, marking the division between the old Greek city and the Roman sector.
• Tower of the Winds: An ingeniously designed ancient clock tower that served multiple purposes, from sundial to weather vane.
• Byzantine Churches of Plaka: From Agios Nikolaos Ragavas to Agia Ekaterini, these chapels reveal the deep religious heritage woven into Plaka’s history.
• Roman Agora: Originally a bustling marketplace, the Roman Agora features the Gate of Athena Archegetis and stands as a testament to the city’s Roman influences.

Today’s Plaka and Anafiotika

While Plaka’s roots reach deep into Athenian history, its daily rhythm is unmistakably alive with modern energy. The area’s narrow lanes are animated by artists and street musicians, creating a lively tapestry of sound and color. Local artisans showcase their craft in small stalls, and the scent of traditional Greek dishes wafts from tavernas, inviting passersby to indulge in a quintessential Athenian meal.

Anafiotika, perched just above, is a contrast in pace. Best experienced during the quieter hours of sunrise or sunset, its narrow paths and whitewashed homes, set against the Acropolis, evoke a serene island escape right in the heart of Athens.

Pro Tip: Early morning or sunset in Anafiotika rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, offering an ideal moment for photos and quiet reflection.

Local Flavor: Where to Eat and Drink

• Platanos: Open since 1933, Platanos offers slow-cooked classics like roast goat, with tables shaded by mulberry trees, giving the feel of an island escape.
• Saita: A cozy gem on Kidathinaion Street, serving up lamb chops, fried zucchini, and bakaliaros skordalia with warm hospitality.
• Scholarhio: This classic taverna is beloved for its shareable Greek meze plates and welcoming vibe.
• Cafe Melina: Named after the beloved actress Melina Mercouri, this nostalgic spot is ideal for coffee and light bites.
• Brettos Distillery: Famous for its homemade ouzo and colorful bottle-lined walls, Brettos has been a local fixture since 1909.

Where to Stay

Plaka and Anafiotika offer a range of places to stay, from boutique hotels exuding old-world charm to vacation rentals with all the modern amenities. Just beyond, the neighborhoods of Koukaki and Acropolis provide additional options for visitors, blending accessibility with a quieter, more local ambiance. Cloudkeys also offers well-equipped rentals in Koukaki and Acropolis, ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and a warm, home-like stay.

Getting There

Metro: Take the Red Line (M2) to Acropoli Station, just a short walk from Plaka.
On Foot: Both Syntagma and Monastiraki Squares are within a 10-minute walk.
By Bus: Numerous buses stop at Syntagma Square, offering convenient access to Plaka.

Suggested Itinerary

Morning: Start your day exploring Anafiotika’s quiet, island-like lanes. Make your way down to Plaka to visit the Lysicrates Monument and a few of the Byzantine chapels nestled in the neighborhood’s corners.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Platanos or Saita. Afterward, stop by the Tower of the Winds and Hadrian’s Arch in the Roman Agora. A coffee break at Cafe Melina is a lovely way to soak up the historic atmosphere.
Evening: Begin the evening at Brettos Distillery for a traditional ouzo, then wander Plaka’s softly lit streets, framed against the Acropolis for a memorable night.

In Plaka and Anafiotika, Athens’ past and present merge seamlessly. The neighborhoods invite visitors to wander from ancient relics to charming alleys, all while experiencing Athens’ enduring culture. Here, under the watchful gaze of the Acropolis, history lives on through the city’s streets, local flavors, and serene retreats, offering an experience both timeless and profoundly Athenian.