Syntagma: Where Athens' Heart and History Meet

Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) was named after the Constitution that the people imposed on King Otto in 1843, outside what was then the palace (now the Parliament building). From then until today, it has been a landmark for every public event, political gathering, or… meeting point. From here, pedestrian streets, shops, hotels, and directions to all of Athens’ significant attractions begin.

What to See – Points of Interest

SIGTHSEEING

Hellenic Parliament & Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Dominates the square. Don't miss the Changing of the Presidential Guard (every hour, most impressive every Sunday at 11:00 AM).

SIGTHSEEING

National Garden

A small green "oasis" in the city center, right behind the Parliament. Ideal for a walk, relaxation, or a takeaway coffee

SIGTHSEEING

Hotel Grande Bretagne

One of Athens' most luxurious and historic hotels, with a stately aesthetic and an incredible rooftop.

SIGTHSEEING

Ermou Street Pedestrian Zone

Athens' most commercial street, full of fashion stores, cafes, and street musicians.

SIGTHSEEING

Kapnikarea Square & Church

A hidden gem on Ermou Street — an 11th-century Byzantine church amidst the bustling crowds.

COFFEE

Public Café (rooftop)

Wonderful views of the Acropolis and the square. Ideal for breakfast or afternoon coffee.

COFFEE

Kaya (specialty coffee)

Specialty coffee near Syntagma, for a more "sophisticated" cup.

COFFEE

Ergon House (concept store café)

A large multi-space with a deli, cafe, restaurant, and boutique hotel.

EAT

Tylichto (Ermou)

Quality souvlaki in a modern setting. Value for money.

EAT

Athénée (Spyromiliou Arcade)

A classic Athenian brasserie, ideal for brunch, coffee, or dinner.

EAT

Birdman (Solonos Street)

Modern Japanese street food with yakitori, sushi, and sake. Very close to Syntagma.

EAT

Tudor Hall (GB Roof Garden)

For special occasions, with gourmet Greek cuisine and unique views of the Acropolis.

DRINK

The Zillers Roof Garden

Magical views of the Acropolis. Cocktails, gastronomy, and wonderful aesthetics.

DRINK

The Clumsies (near Syntagma)

One of the best bars in the world, famous for its signature cocktails and concept.

DRINK

42 Barstronomy

A sophisticated, modern cocktail bar with an excellent bar and creative cuisine.

Green Spaces & Walks

GREEN SPACES

National Garden:

Quiet, shady, with a small lake, peacocks, and a playground.

WALKS

Zappeion Hall and Gardens:

An extension of the National Garden – imposing and ideal for photos.

Culture & Museums

MUSEUM

Benaki Museum

Excellent collections of Greek and international art, from antiquity to the present day. (Koumbari Street – 5 min from Syntagma)

MUSEUM

Numismatic Museum

An impressive building by Ernst Ziller with a collection of ancient coins – and a wonderful cafe in the garden!

MUSEUM

B&E Goulandris Foundation

For lovers of modern art. Exhibitions by Picasso, Van Gogh, Pollock, and other greats. (Pangrati, 10 min walk)

Shopping & Department Stores

SHOPPING

Attica Department Store

The largest department store in Greece, in a neoclassical building. High-end fashion, accessories, and cosmetics.

SHOPPING

Ermou & Surrounding Streets

From mainstream brands (Zara, H&M) to small Greek concept stores.

SHOPPING

Stoa Nikos – Nikoloudis Arcade

A retro arcade with a 60s atmosphere, hosting new brands and cafe-bars.

Tips

  • Starting point for every other area

    from Syntagma, you can go everywhere: Plaka, Kolonaki, Monastiraki, Ermou, Zappeion.

  • Access by

    metro (Lines 2 & 3), buses, and tram.

  • Best visiting hours:

    morning for walks & shopping, afternoon for relaxation, night for cocktails with a view.