Traveling to Athens means entering a time machine. We can glimpse the glory of Ancient Greece, showcased by the glorious Acropolis or the timeless Temple of Olympian Zeus. Beyond the Parthenon and other famous sites, mysterious yet fascinating structures wait for their stories to be heard. Meanwhile, local eateries invite you to have a taste of Athens’ authentic and timeless side. This list of hidden gems in Athens is compiled by TripLeader Lama, our travel expert who regularly host trips to the Mediterranean and Caucasus region. Let’s walk off the tourist path and find a new side of the timeless city.
Hidden Gems in Athens – Summary
- Anafiotika
- Saint Nikolaos of Vouliagmeni
- Vouliagmeni Lake
- Stavros Niarchos Cultural Center
- Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art
- Tower of the Winds
- Psyri
- Old Madrasa
- Daphni Monastery
- Creme Royale
- Diporto
- Stani
1. Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art
Scramble through the cultural journey of the Cycladean in Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art. As its name suggests, the museum showcases artifacts from the Cycladic civilization, including statues, pottery, and figurines. See the artifacts that inspired major names in the art sphere, like Pablo Picasso, in this privately owned museum. Besides Cycladic artifacts, the museum displays the collection of its owners – Basil and Elise Goulandris – which includes around 4,500 books and various paintings. It is one of the most interesting hidden gems in Athens to visit.
2. Tower of the Winds
The world has eyes on Ancient Greece as it birthed life-changing theories and innovations. Then, the Tower of the Winds represents the Greek’s advancement in meteorology and astronomy. This archaeological site dates back to the 2nd century and remains as the Roman Agora’s lesser-known artifact. It is constructed in an octagonal structure and made out of Pentelic marble.
The Tower of the Winds might be the oldest meteorological station in the world. It features sundials, a conical roof serving as a weather vane, and a water clock. Furthermore, it captivates everyone who visits with the eight metopes of Greek wind gods, which are stated in a compass. They are Boreas (N), Kaikias (NE), Eurus (E), Apeliotes (SE), Notus (S), Livas (SW), Zephyrus (W) and Skiron (NW). Therefore, this tower is one of the most intriguing hidden gems in Athens that you should check out.
3. Old Madrasa
When planning our trip to Athens, we picture temples dedicated to the Greek gods and astonishing Orthodox churches. However, walking further into the heart of Athens allows us to find different cultures and legacies. Old Madrasa is a great example of Athens’ overlooked diversity. It dates back to the Ottoman Era and once served as an Islamic madrasa (theological school). Now, the Old Madrasa is left with its arch gate framed with sand bricks.
Old Madrasa keeps the story of the Muslim community in Athens. It witnessed the gloomy history of how the school was turned into a prison. Moreover, you can see the plane tree that served as an execution spot in the past. This hidden gem in Athens takes you to discover an undiscovered history.
4. Daphni Monastery
This 11th-century monastery takes you to the grandeur Byzantine period. Tucked in the Chaidari district, northwest of Athens, Daphni Monastery is an out-of-radar UNESCO World Heritage. The monastery originally dates back to the 6th century, but a total makeover was done to the building in the 11th century. It is adorned with beautiful mosaics depicting stories from the Bible. Moreover, the exterior adopts a classic cloisonné architecture often identified in Byzantine sites.
Daphni Monastery has stood the test of time. Today, it stands strong with its elegant Byzantine-styled facade. Moreover, the monastery survived the attack of Frankish invaders in 1205. It is one of the most astonishing hidden gems in Athens to visit.
6. Anafiotika
Do you need an escape from bustling Athens? Then, head to Anafiotika Village and get in touch with a slow lifestyle. Anafiotika Village sits beneath the Acropolis, often overlooked by tourists visiting the ancient site. It is lined with Cycladic-styled houses painted in white and blue. Bougenville flowers bloom and splash color onto the white canvas.
Anafiotika Village is relatively small and easy to discover. Follow the short path and winding stairs that take you to see the line of buildings. You can also find family-run Greek taverns and murals adorning the neighborhood’s buildings.
7. Vouliagmeni Lake
Athens might not be in travelers’ top of mind when it comes to beach vacation. Nonetheless, the Athens Riviera will stun everyone who visits. The sparkling coastline keeps a stunning lake chosen as Athenians’ favorite getaway. Lake Vouliagmeni’s landscape will take your breath away. The crystal-clear lake reflects the sky’s color and presents a beautiful gradient of emerald. It is bordered by a series of limestone cliffs that enhance the lake’s astonishing scenery.
Furthermore, Lake Vouliagmeni welcomes visitors for a swim all year round. The waters keep a temperature hovering around 22°C to 29°C. Besides that, the lake comprises thermal springs that are famous for their healing properties. Therefore, it is one of the hidden gems in Athens worthy to visit.
9. Treno Sto Rouf
See how a vintage train transformed into Athens’ thriving cultural hotspot. Treno Sto Rouf is a ten-car train established in 1926 and got the original name Simplon Orient Express. Since 1997, the train has been used as an industrial monument consisting of a restaurant and bar. Now, visitors can immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere while enjoying modern entertainment in Treno Sto Rouf. Take a seat at Wagon Restaurant’s dining table, which keeps the original wagon from 1953.
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