Outings and play with the whole family in the lush green parks of Attica.
Small green oases are hidden in Attica just a few kilometers from, or even within, the center of Athens. The citys parks offer a timeout from the bustling capital, from obligations and the everyday rush. They offer playgrounds, paths for walking among blooming flowers, lakes and space for picnics and endless play. We present six options to escape with the whole family without leaving the city at all, ideal for day trip.
National Garden, Syntagma
The first garden in the heart of Athens hides an oasis beside the avenues and the citys bustle. Next to the Hellenic Parliament, the National Garden is perfect for long or short strolls and breathers from the daily routine. It was laid out on the site where in antiquity stood the sacred grove of the Lyceum, dedicated to the god Apollo, and perhaps its most iconic and most photographed spot is the sundial at the main entrance, as well as the Zappeion. Across 158 stremmas, thousands of species of plants and trees unfold, while you also have the chance to see many bird species. Among the verdant paths youll find benches for a rest, little ponds with ducks, a zoo, while the playground invites endless hours of play with the kids.
Syngrou Park, Marousi
The most visited park of the northern suburbs stretches across 950 stremmas between Kifissia, Marousi and Melissia. The Syngrou Estate is one of Atticas most impressive parks and, since 1988, its management has been undertaken by the Institute of Agricultural Sciences. It features forest trails, spots ideal for picnics and a playground. Since 2020 youll also find the emblematic Greek Garden, a model of a garden resilient to Climate Change. Here stands the listed mansion of Andreas Syngrou, as well as the Church of Saint Andrew, the only Gothic-style Orthodox church in Greece constructed to the designs of Ernst Ziller.
Stavros Niarchos Park, Kallithea
One of the most contemporary parks, just a few kilometers from the center of Athens, hosts activities and events throughout the year. The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a green space with a wide variety of plants such as olives, laurels and cypresses, as well as a very large array of Greek native aromatic plants. The work of architect Renzo Piano welcomes thousands of visitors daily from all parts of Athens. The 360° view from the iconic Lighthouse toward the sea and all of Athens, the Canal, the Great Lawn and the National Library are among the places families love for weekend strolls and beyond.
Veikou Park, Galatsi
One of the most important green lungs in Athens, Veikou Park spreads across the northwestern foothills of the Turkovounia and took its name from the fighter of the Greek Revolution, Lambros Veikos. This lush 256-stremma park in Galatsi offers pavilions and rest spots, paths for walks, playgrounds, outdoor gym equipment and sports facilities. Visitors can work out, relax at the café, head up to the theater that hosts events in the summer months and enjoy films at the open-air summer cinema.
Tritsis Park, Ilion
The largest Metropolitan Park in the basin, with a total area of approximately 1.200 stremmas, lies within the boundaries of the Municipality of Ilion and borders the Municipality of Agioi Anargyroi-Kamatero. The Park of Environmental and Educational Activities and Social Economy Development «Antonis Tritsis» offers tranquility and carefree moments among its 6 artificial lakes and paths, around which 389 plant species are found. Additionally, the Hellenic Ornithological Society has recorded 175 bird species within its grounds. You can take a family bike ride, as it has cycling paths, take a breather and picnic at the tables, sit down for coffee and play with the kids or attend an educational and environmental program.
The Ellinikon Experience Park, Elliniko
A contemporary park in the Southern Suburbs, by the sea, the Ellinikon Experience Park is a new urban green space designed for all ages. This green oasis is constantly evolving and being enriched with new spaces and activities. Its landmark is the fountain with choreographed water displays, while it also features a fitness area and a Zen garden for moments of relaxation and the Childrens Forest, a space with wooden play equipment and structures designed for learning and exploration. The Experience Centre stands out, with its five themed zones, which take visitors into the future of the park, which is the largest urban regeneration in Europe.
