Visit Athens in full bloom, its hillsides carpeted with poppies and daisies under the warm and sunny spring skies. Explore Athen’s acclaimed sites, attractions and 70 km of beaches along the Athens Riviera. There are many advantages to visiting in Spring, such as enjoying outdoor activities in Athens without the crowds that summer months attract, and spending less for everything from your flight to accommodation.
Cultural Outdoor Activities in Athens
Spring in Athens is the ideal time to discover local traditions and customs, starting with the spirited celebrations of carnival (Apokries) and Greek Easter in March and April. Another notable date is on March 25, Greek Independence Day. It is an important national holiday that comes with an ostentatious parade happening in front of Parliament, on Syntagma Square. The aftermath is usually about enjoying the national meal of the day, Bakaliaros skordalia (Fried cod and garlic mash). In May, the Athens festival season kicks off to a whopping start with a week-long celebration of jazz, at Technopolis, with local and international artists performing under the Athenian starry skies.
Outdoor Activities in Athens that locals love
The ancient yet cosmopolitan and thriving city of Athens offers visitors a truly exuberant and varied experience. Stroll along the Palio Faliro marina lined with trendy waterfront cafes, restaurants, parks and play areas for children. Book a table for a leisurely lunch by the seaside. You’ll be spoiled for choice. In the immediate vicinity, you will find the SNFCC, an architectural and cultural marvel that is a must-visit especially during Spring. It’s Great Lawn is a landscaped park with playgrounds, a 400-meter seawater canal and an impressive line-up of free events all year round, such as concerts, theatre, movies, festivals, sporting, and many more outdoor activities in Athens.
Get your fill of Athens in full bloom at the Tatoi Estate, a 10,000-acre summer palace of the former Greek royal family, or, if you don’t feel like trekking to the north of Athens, simply stroll under the shady pines of Philopappou Hill, opposite the Acropolis, or the Pnyx Hill that offers incredible views of the citadel.
Saunter along the romantic Dionysiou Areopagitou to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a testament to Athen’s triumphant classical past. The historical center of Athens is easily walkable from any one of our Athens luxury hotels. Don’t miss paying a visit to the National Garden, right next to the Parliament, that has numerous clearly mapped paths that will take you past centuries old trees and vegetation, offering a small urban oasis amidst the city’s concrete tapestry.
On Sundays, it is customary to go bargain hunting around Monastiraki flea market, Athinas Street, and Psirri, where you’ll find anything from antiques to vintage and designer threads. Rest your weary legs while you enjoy a delicious light meal or expertly-prepared iced coffees at one of Athens’ unique museum cafés.
Outdoor activities in Athens coast
Get your fill of outdoor activities in Athens on two wheels and cycle past scenic and historic sights on an exhilarating Athens bike ride or head on a cycling tour of the Riviera. The coastal cycling route is also great for a run along the seafront. And if the sea won’t stop calling you, for those who can brave the cooler sea temperatures of Spring, there are loads of places that cater to water sports lovers, such as windsurfing, kite surfing and even scuba diving. Another great alternative to sea swimming are the translucent, mineral packed waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. This emerald-green lake is fed by underground currents at a constant balmy 24° C all year.
Swimming here is a treat to nature’s delights as you admire the cavernous beauty of the lake while it works wonders on your wellness too. Last but not least, venturing out to one of Athens’ most impressive ancient landmarks on its outskirts, the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion is reason enough to travel 30 km outside the historical center.
Explore, discover and indulge in countless scenic, historical, cultural, and nature experiences with outdoor activities in Athens this Spring. For an unforgettable stay in Athens choose from 3 exceptional Electra hotels, where luxury, well-being and tranquility are within easy reach of Athens’ hotspots, important historical sites, parks, and beaches. Leave the winter greys behind and embrace life with a springtime holiday filled with outdoor activities in Athens.
