Kolonaki occupies an area east and northeast of Syntagma, climbing towards Lycabettus Hill. It is a useful place to explore if your interests include art, shopping, architecture or a city walk away from the most crowded archaeological streets.
A route that works
From Syntagma, head towards Vasilissis Sofias Avenue and visit the Museum of Cycladic Art or the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. Continue into Kolonaki Square and explore the surrounding streets. If you want a viewpoint, the route towards Lycabettus climbs steeply; leave enough time and energy for the ascent or use the funicular from its Kolonaki-side station.
Why go?
Kolonaki has a more residential, contemporary urban atmosphere than Plaka. It is the place to look at everyday city life and museums rather than ancient ruins at every turn. Building façades and side streets reward a slower pace, but it is not essential to visit if you only have a single day in Athens.
Staying here
Kolonaki suits travellers seeking a quieter base away from the loudest nightlife streets, although shops, bars and traffic vary from block to block. Many routes uphill are tiring with heavy luggage. Check your accommodation’s distance from Syntagma or Evangelismos Metro rather than assuming the entire district has a metro entrance nearby.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT BASE
Neighbourhoods shape the trip.
Use the area guides together with the stay section if you are still deciding where to base yourself in Athens.
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