Athens‘ Acropolis hill is well-known around the world as the home of the iconic Parthenon, a very unique architectural gem. However, sitting on the Acropolis has one small downside: you don’t get to see it whole. Enter, stage northeast, Lycabettus Hill. Located sort of north of Syntagama Square, its base is surrounded by a residential area that is quite nice. Lycabettus is offer the best views of Athens, the Acropolis, and the sea beyond!
Reaching the spot for the best views of Athens
Of course, first priority was seeing the Acropolis and the Parthenon up close and personal. And I did that. Next up was seeing it from a different vantage point (other than my hotel’s rooftop terrace!). That’s where Lycabettus Hill comes into the picture….
The hill can be ascended on foot or via funicular. One goes through a residential area with many low-rise buildings to get to the funicular, which was the option I took.
Seeing the Parthenon between the residential buildings as one goes up
Stairs going up Lycabettus Hill to the funicular base station
Leaving the funicular station at the base
Atop Lycabettus Hill
At the top of the hill, sits the Chapel of St. George. There is not much to do up there but nothing is needed with the views it offers!
Lycabettus Hill as seen from near Parliament – way high!
Chapel of St. George
And then the best views of Athens !
Being the highest hill in the city of Athens, Lycabettus Hill is an incredible vantage point to see the extent of the city all the way to the sea. Of course, the Acropolis with its main attraction, the Parthenon, is within the line of sight as is the sea behind it in Piraeus, and other important and less important structures in the city. For example, the former royal palace (now Parliament) and the 1896 Olympics Stadium are easily detected. It is cool to go up there after spending time exploring the city so you can recognize the places and areas visited. Though, it could be cool to see it from up high first and then explore? Well, don’t take my word, take a look and decide for yourself!
A sea of white as far as the eye can see in this direction!
Olympic Stadium (from the 1896 Games, first of the modern times)
The Acropolis and the sea beyond
Closing in on the top of the Acropolis, you can appreciate the Parthenon and other structures
Where my avatar photo comes from!
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