Hotels near Plaka

Plaka is Athens's old town - a labyrinth of pedestrian alleys, neoclassical houses with bougainvillea spilling over their walls, Byzantine churches dating from the 11th century, and tavernas with vine-shaded terraces. The neighbourhood predates modern Greece (founded 1832) and sits on top of the ancient agora and Roman forum, with archaeological remains visible in basement bars.

Walk the main spine from Adrianou Street to Lysikratous Square. Stop at the Lysicrates Monument (335 BC, the oldest surviving choragic monument), the Tower of the Winds in the Roman Forum, and the Mnemonic stone of Hadrian's Library. Skip the souvlaki touts on Adrianou and head to side streets for tavernas where Greeks actually eat.

Pro Tip: Walk Plaka in the late afternoon (5-7pm) when the marble pavements glow in the sun and tavernas open. Lunch at Kalimera Geia Sou or Klepsidra; coffee at Yiasemi on Mnesikleous Steps; aperitivo at the rooftop of A for Athens for the Acropolis sunset shot.