Lycabettus Hill: Athens From Above

At 277 metres, Lycabettus is the highest point within the city center, rising as a steep pine-covered cone above Kolonaki. From the summit, on a clear day, you can see across the Attica basin to the sea, the islands of the Saronic Gulf, and, on exceptional days, the mountains of the Peloponnese.

Getting to the top

There are two options: walk or take the funicular. The walking path from Aristippou Street in Kolonaki takes 30–40 minutes, ascending through pine forest that provides welcome shade. The funicular (teleferik) departs from Plutarchou Street (end of the road) and takes around four minutes each way. It operates daily but closes for maintenance on a rotating schedule — worth checking before you go.

The summit has a small whitewashed Chapel of Saint George, a cafe, and a restaurant. In summer, the Lycabettus Theatre on the northeastern slope hosts outdoor performances — concerts, theatre, and dance — which are among the more enjoyable cultural experiences the city offers.

When to go

Sunset is the most popular time, and the views justify the crowds. The light turns the Acropolis gold and the city becomes a geometric pattern of orange rooftops stretching to the water. Early morning before 9am offers a similarly rewarding but far less crowded experience. Avoid midday in summer — the summit has minimal shade.