
Syntagma Square
The bustling heart of Athens, featuring the Hellenic Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the iconic Evzones.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most elaborate guard ceremony

Syntagma Square
Best Time
Most elaborate guard ceremony

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The bustling heart of Athens, featuring the Hellenic Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the iconic Evzones.
"Syntagma Square and Ermou Street form the vibrant heart of Athens and are absolutely worth a visit."

🎯 Arrive Early for Guards
Get a good spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony by arriving 10 minutes early.
🚇 Direct Airport Metro
Take Metro Line 3 from the airport directly to Syntagma station for an easy transfer.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Changing of the Guard
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Witness the precise, ceremonial march of the Evzones. A truly iconic Athenian experience.

Hellenic Parliament Building
Northern end of Syntagma Square
Admire the neoclassical architecture of the former Royal Palace, now home to the Greek Parliament.

Ermou Street Shopping
Adjacent to Syntagma Square
Explore Athens' premier shopping street, offering everything from international brands to local boutiques.

Fountains and Greenery
Central Syntagma Square
Relax by the fountains and enjoy the tree-lined ambiance, a pleasant respite in the city center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing the Changing of the Guard
Getting to Syntagma Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Guards
Get a good spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony by arriving 10 minutes early.
🚇 Direct Airport Metro
Take Metro Line 3 from the airport directly to Syntagma station for an easy transfer.
📸 Great Photo Angles
Capture stunning city views from the stairs looking towards the Parliament.
💃 Enjoy Street Performers
Soak in the lively atmosphere with spontaneous music and dance performances.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Guards
Get a good spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony by arriving 10 minutes early.
🚇 Direct Airport Metro
Take Metro Line 3 from the airport directly to Syntagma station for an easy transfer.
📸 Great Photo Angles
Capture stunning city views from the stairs looking towards the Parliament.
💃 Enjoy Street Performers
Soak in the lively atmosphere with spontaneous music and dance performances.
☕️ Relax by the Fountains
Take a break and enjoy the central square's ambiance, especially when it's hot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Syntagma Square is widely praised as the vibrant heart of Athens, lauded for its historical significance, lively atmosphere, and the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony. Visitors appreciate its central location, excellent transport links, and the adjacent shopping on Ermou Street. While it can be busy, the energy and ambiance are consistently highlighted as positive aspects.
"Syntagma Square is the central and vibrant hub in Athens, offering easy access through metro and bus lines. The area is lively throughout the day, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and plenty of shopping options. It serves as a strategic starting point for exploring the city center and is well-organized with constant tourist activity. A comfortable and worthwhile place to visit."
Khaled Gushti
"Syntagma Square and Ermou Street form the vibrant heart of Athens and are absolutely worth a visit, especially during the late afternoon hours when the heat begins to ease. Syntagma is not only historically important—with the Parliament building and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony—but also a great starting point for exploring the city.
Right next to it, Ermou Street stretches out as one of Athens' busiest shopping streets, lined with a fantastic mix of international brands, Greek fashion stores, and small boutiques. Whether you're looking for clothes, shoes, souvenirs, or just browsing, there’s something for everyone. The street is pedestrian-friendly and shaded in some parts, making it a pleasant walk even in warm weather.
There are also plenty of cafes, bakeries, and juice bars along the way if you need to cool off with a drink or grab a quick bite. Street performers and local musicians often add to the lively atmosphere, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.
If you're visiting Athens, this area should definitely be on your list—great for shopping, relaxing, people-watching, and feeling the energy of the city. It's where ancient charm meets modern Athenian life."
Ufuk Yüksekkaya
"Central hub for subway and buses. Late December they are assembling the stage and decorations for Christmas. Nearby coffee shops are very expensive. Better to walk a black down. Small stands serve pastries. Price says 0.70€ but the one with filling is €2.50."
Justice Kali Di Quartuccio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is to take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) directly from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Syntagma station. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes and is a safe and affordable option. Alternatively, the X95 Airport Bus also stops at Syntagma Square.
Yes, Syntagma Square is a major hub for public transportation in Athens. It's served by the Syntagma Metro station (Lines 2 and 3) and numerous bus routes, making it very easy to reach from all parts of the city and the airport.
Absolutely! Syntagma Square is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular sites like the Acropolis (about a 20-30 minute walk), Monastiraki, and the National Garden.
From Syntagma, you can easily access the Metro to reach further attractions. Buses are also readily available for various routes. Many central areas are also best explored on foot.
Yes, taxis are usually readily available at Syntagma Square, as it's a major point of interest and a transportation hub. You can hail one or find a taxi stand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Syntagma Square itself is a public space and is free to enter and explore. You do not need tickets to walk around, see the Parliament building from the outside, or watch the Changing of the Guard.
Syntagma Square is accessible 24/7 as it is an open public square. However, specific attractions within or around the square, like museums or shops, will have their own operating hours.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a public event and does not require any tickets or fees. It's a free spectacle for all visitors.
Yes, Syntagma Square often hosts various events, including national celebrations, concerts, and festivals like Athens Pride. It's worth checking local listings for any events during your visit.
While you can admire the Hellenic Parliament building from the outside, public access inside is generally limited to guided tours or for official visitors. Check the Parliament's official website for any tour information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Changing of the Guard happens every hour on the hour. The most elaborate ceremony is on Sundays at 11 AM, which includes a larger contingent of Evzones and a marching band. Arrive early for the Sunday ceremony to get a good view.
Syntagma Square is a vibrant hub. You can relax by the fountains, people-watch, explore the shops on Ermou Street, visit the National Garden nearby, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes.
Yes, Syntagma Square offers excellent photo opportunities, from the grand Parliament building and the Evzones to the bustling street life and the city views from the surrounding elevated areas.
Yes, there are benches and areas around the fountains where you can sit and rest. During the day, especially when it's hot, finding shade can be a welcome relief.
Syntagma Square is known for its lively and energetic atmosphere, especially during peak hours. It's a mix of tourists and locals, with street performers and a constant buzz of activity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Syntagma Square and the adjacent Ermou Street are lined with numerous cafes, bakeries, juice bars, and restaurants offering a variety of options from quick bites to full meals.
While Ermou Street is more focused on international brands, you can find traditional Greek tavernas and cafes in the side streets branching off Syntagma Square, offering authentic local cuisine.
Yes, there is a McDonald's located conveniently near Syntagma Square, offering familiar fast-food options for those looking for a quick meal.
You'll find many cafes and bakeries around Syntagma Square offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks. Many juice bars are also available for refreshing drinks.
Prices can vary, but you can find a range of options from budget-friendly cafes and bakeries to more upscale restaurants. It's possible to eat well without breaking the bank.
📸 📸 Photography
The steps leading up to the Hellenic Parliament offer a fantastic vantage point for wide shots of the square and the building. The area around the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is also iconic.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful light for photography, with softer shadows and a warm glow. Sunrise can also be magical, though less crowded.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and details of the Evzones. A wide-angle lens is useful for the grand scale of the square.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of Syntagma Square. However, be mindful of any temporary restrictions during official events or when photographing military personnel.
Drone usage in central Athens, especially around government buildings like the Parliament, is often restricted or requires special permits. It's best to check current regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ermou Street offers plenty of shops that might appeal to older children, and the numerous cafes provide convenient spots for snacks and breaks. The central location also makes it easy to combine a visit to Syntagma with other family-friendly attractions in Athens. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as the square can get crowded.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For affordable dining, opt for the numerous bakeries and juice bars for snacks and light meals, or explore the side streets for local tavernas offering reasonably priced Greek dishes. Taking the Metro from the airport is also a cost-effective way to reach the city center compared to taxis.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the late afternoon for the best light, or during festive periods like Christmas for stunning light displays. The hourly Changing of the Guard provides consistent opportunities for action shots, but the Sunday ceremony offers a more dramatic scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evzones: Guardians of the Tomb
Visitors are often mesmerized by the stoic demeanor of the Evzones, who remain motionless for extended periods. The main ceremony, held every Sunday at 11 AM, is particularly grand, featuring a larger contingent and a marching band. It's a powerful visual representation of Greek heritage and a highlight for many tourists.
While the hourly changes are impressive, the Sunday ceremony offers a more profound experience. Remember to be respectful and maintain a safe distance while observing. The dedication and discipline of the Evzones are truly remarkable to witness firsthand.
Syntagma Square's Historical Significance
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in front of the Parliament, serves as a solemn memorial to all Greek soldiers who have fallen in conflict. The eternal flame and the vigilant Evzones underscore its importance. The square has been the site of numerous historical events, protests, and celebrations, reflecting its central role in modern Greek history.
Beyond its political significance, Syntagma Square is a vibrant meeting point for Athenians and a key tourist destination. It seamlessly blends historical weight with the bustling energy of contemporary city life, offering a glimpse into both the past and present of Athens.
Shopping and Dining Delights
Beyond the retail therapy, the area surrounding Syntagma Square is brimming with culinary options. You'll find numerous cafes perfect for a morning coffee or an afternoon break, bakeries offering delicious pastries, and juice bars for a refreshing pick-me-up. For those seeking a more substantial meal, a variety of restaurants and tavernas are scattered throughout the side streets, serving both traditional Greek dishes and international cuisine.
Evenings in Syntagma Square can be particularly lively, with street performers often adding to the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a place where you can easily spend hours exploring, shopping, and enjoying the local flavors, making it a well-rounded experience for visitors.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit