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Valentine’s Day in Athens, the ancient capital of Greece, weaves an intoxicating mix of old wonder and new charm. Candlelit dinners with views of the imposing Acropolis, where history mutters tales of love and glory. Walk hand in hand down the cobblestone alleys in the oldest neighbourhood in the city, full of charm, with each turn unveiling little cafes and hidden courtyards. Athens not only encourages romance but also builds a memorable experience expressed in culture, the beauty of the landscape, and romantic settings that make Valentine’s Day memorable and extraordinary.
10 Best Things To Do In Athens
Explore the following things to see in Athens with your partner to make your Valentine’s Day special, unique and interesting.
1. Enjoy Acropolis At Sunset
Photo: Federico Abis / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Watching the Acropolis at sunset is pure magic when the ruins of time change from deep to golden hues while the warm sun sets below the horizon. The Parthenon, Erechtheion, and other famous structures majestically stand against the twilight sky, providing exclusive romantic settings for couples. In addition to taking a stroll up to the Acropolis Hill, you can also take in the same view from neighbouring locations like Areopagus Hill or Filopappou Hill, which provide expansive views of Athens and the Saronic Gulf. Combine it with a rooftop dinner at one of the many restaurants where you can dine with stunning views of the sunset.
Location: Acropolis Hill, Athens
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
2. Explore Plaka Village
Photo: George E. Koronaios / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Often referred to as the “Neighbourhood of the Gods,” Plaka is an amazing district in Athens, full of romance and history. Streets with neoclassical houses, lively shops and cafes give it a touch of modernity. Wander hand in hand through Anafiotika, the Cycladic-style settlement set underneath the Acropolis. Unique shops along Adrianou Street selling handmade jewellery and other traditional Greek products offer perfect choices for a memorable gift. There are many restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Greek food in a cosy setting, like To Kafeneio and the Old Tavern of Psarras. For a special experience, try Greek wines at Brettos, one of Athens’ oldest distilleries.
Location: Central Athens
Timings: 24*7
3. Hike To Lycabettus Hill
Photo: George E. Koronaios / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The most romantic experience Athens has to offer lies at the foot of Lycabettus Hill. You can take the funicular ride or hike up to the summit from where the city sprawls before you, from the iconic Acropolis to the bustling port of Piraeus. Orizontes restaurant atop the hill is another great choice for a Valentine’s Day outing. The top Mediterranean destination is all about combining flavours throughout Greece of feta cheese laced with thyme-infused honey and the world’s best dessert, baklava. This bluff-top restaurant offers dining al fresco on a huge cliffside terrace so you can enjoy the sunset views as well.
Location: Kolonaki, Athens
Timings: 9 AM – 2:30 AM
4. Visit The Temple of Poseidon
Photo: Petroskaz / Wikimedia Commons
It is one of the most popular destination spaces in history as well as a natural landscape worldwide. This temple occupies the top of a cliff overlooking the sea, scoping an incredible panorama of the coastline. The location offers wonderful sunsets, making it perfect for a romantic or peaceful break on Valentine’s Day in Athens. This temple is dedicated to the Greek god of the sea and is dated back to the 5th century BCE. You can also go through the Athenian Riviera as a tourist or take an organised tour that is followed by lectures from archaeologists.
Location: Cape Sounion, 70 km southeast of Athens
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 Pm
5. Visit The National Garden Of Athens
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
The National Garden of Athens is a magical retreat from the exuberance of town, particularly for couples seeking tranquillity. Covering an area of 158,000 square meters adjacent to Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament, it boasts over 7,000 trees, 40,000 shrubs, and a very rich number of rare flora and fauna. It offers the perfect picnic spots, shaded trails for a relaxing walk, and serene ponds with ducks and turtles, giving a romantic atmosphere. Its small zoo can be visited, secret underground passageways can be searched, or you can simply relax near the historical Zappeion Hall, which hosts exhibitions and serves as the venue for summer open-air cinemas.
Location: Amalias Avenue, Athens
Timings: 24*7
6. Romantic Dinner At A Rooftop Restaurant
Photo: Mariavazoura / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Outstanding rooftop dining options on Valentine’s Day in Athens, especially at sunset, are A for Athens and 360 Cocktail Bar. A for Athens, sitting in the Monastiraki area, features a cosy ambience with enlightened Acropolis lights. The restaurant’s gourmet menu highlights wonderful fine dining, with all classic Greek cuisine. Its setting is ideal for couples because of its soft lighting as well as impeccable service. The 360 Degrees Hotel allows overlooking the panorama of the city, with its interior design making it a picturesque location for a romantic dinner. The menu juxtaposes Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with signature cocktails.
Location: Various locations in Athens
Timings: 12 PM – 1 AM
7. Tour The Benaki Museum Of Greek Culture
Photo: Joyofmuseums / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A warm and enriching space for couples sharing their love of art, culture, and history, the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture is situated in a beautiful neoclassical building near Athens’ Syntagma Square. The collections range from ancient artefacts to contemporary art, putting Greek history in all its kaleidoscopic expression before visitors. Feel the peaceful ambience in the museum with elegant interior decorations and thoughtful displays and walk around the museum casually. Then, the next stop is the rooftop café of the museum, offering panoramic views over Athens for a romantic coffee or meal.
Location: Koumbari 1, Athens
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
8. Visit The Hidden Island Of Athens
Photo: Zde / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Anafiotika lies below the Acropolis in Athens and is a lovely little secret place that takes one back to an island air of peace. No better retreat from the bustle of Athens than the serene one of Anafiotika. The narrow alleys that lead into this place allow one to go wandering, uncovering hidden courtyards and breathtakingly surprising views over the city. Strolling is usually accompanied by scents of jasmine. Narrow streets and picturesque houses are great backdrops for photo snapshots of photography enthusiasts. Besides its pretty houses and serenity, the location features some historical attractions like the Church of Saint George of the Rock.
Location: Plaka, Athens
Timings: 24*7
9. Athenian Riviera
Photo: C messier / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Riviera of Athens, from Glyfada to Cape Sounion, presents scenery, including some of the most beautiful beaches of Greece, luxury resorts, and exquisite seaside cafes put together in an unbeatable blend of relaxation and romance. Enjoy Vouliagmeni Lake, where you can relax. It is famous for its healing thermal springs. Therapeutic thermal resorts, such as Amarilia Hotel, whose lovely views of the sea complement the nearby thermal lake. You can dine right by the sea and appreciate the marvellous panorama of the Mediterranean.
Location: South Athens
Timings: 24*7
10. Athens Night Tour
Photo: jimmy teoh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
End this romantic Valentine’s Day in Athens with a night city tour. You can experience a romantic ride on a Segway or ride through the city centre in a horse-drawn carriage. These tours let visitors see lit landmarks in Athens, such as the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, against a beautiful star-studded sky. Monastiraki Square, known for its vibrant nightlife, is one of the highlights of the evening. The square embodies history and contemporary bustling with street performers, musicians, and the most famous Monastiraki Flea Market.
Location: Central Athens
Timings: 8:00 PM onwards
Valentine’s Day in Athens is the eternal elegance of centuries-old history mingling with the pulsating amours of modern life. It is an experience full of love. Being here in front of ancient ruins or walking down the streets, which are almost perfectly picturesque, reminds one to step into one of those romantic stories. Plan your visit with TripXL and let Athens inspire your love this Valentine’s Day.
Cover Photo: Ggia / Wikimedia Commons
