Plaka and Anafiotika Walk
Plaka and Anafiotika, beneath the Acropolis, central Athens
A self-guided walk through Athens' oldest continuously inhabited neighbourhood - Plaka's neoclassical streets, Byzantine churches, and the island-like alleys of Anafiotika, built by settlers from the Cyclades in the 19th century.
Why we recommend it
Plaka and Anafiotika offer the most intimate experience of old Athens - a place where the city's layered history is visible on every street, and where a few minutes of walking can transport you from a busy boulevard to a quiet island-like passage beneath the Acropolis.
Highlights
- Neoclassical streets of Plaka beneath the Acropolis
- Anafiotika - Cycladic-style houses on the Acropolis slope
- Small Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era fountains
- Hidden courtyards and unexpected viewpoints
- Craft shops and traditional tavernas
About this place
Plaka is the historic heart of old Athens, a neighbourhood of narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and small Byzantine churches that sits directly beneath the Acropolis. Walking its lanes reveals layers of the city's history - Ottoman fountains, Roman-era ruins, and 19th-century architecture - all within a few blocks. At the upper edge of Plaka, perched on the northern slope of the Acropolis rock, lies Anafiotika. This tiny neighbourhood was built in the 19th century by settlers from the island of Anafi, who came to Athens after the Greek War of Independence to work as builders. Its whitewashed houses, blue doors, and narrow passages create an atmosphere that feels transported from the Cyclades - a striking contrast to the surrounding city. This is a self-guided exploration, best done at a leisurely pace without a fixed route. The joy of Plaka is in the wandering - discovering a hidden courtyard, a tiny church, or a viewpoint unexpectedly. The area contains numerous small museums, craft shops, and tavernas. Anafiotika is a residential area. Visitors should walk quietly and respectfully, keeping voices low and not photographing through windows or entering private courtyards uninvited.
Practical information
Wear comfortable walking shoes - the streets are cobbled and uneven in places. The area is best explored without a fixed plan. Anafiotika is a residential area - please walk quietly and respectfully. This is a self-guided activity with no tickets or booking required.
Seasonality and weather: Narrow streets offer some shade, but summer afternoons can still be hot. Morning and early evening are ideal. Carry water in summer.
Safety notes: Standard urban precautions apply. Anafiotika is a residential area - respect residents' privacy, keep noise low, and do not enter private property.
Accessibility: Plaka's lower streets are partially accessible, but Anafiotika involves steep, narrow steps and passages that are not wheelchair-accessible. The area is best suited for visitors who can manage uneven terrain and stairs.
Need help planning?
Our concierge team can help coordinate transport, timing and tailored arrangements.
Ask the Concierge