Kaisariani Monastery Athens
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Kaisariani Monastery Athens

4.8
·2k reviews·Kaisariani, Greece

Medieval monastery with ancient roots, offering stunning Athens views and a peaceful forest escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Kaisariani Monastery Athens

Kaisariani Monastery Athens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Medieval monastery with ancient roots, offering stunning Athens views and a peaceful forest escape.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a serene historical escape from the city bustle."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Hike Mt. Hymettos

The paved road from Kaisariani is an easy way to start your hike up Mt. Hymettos.

🎟️ Entry Fee

There's a small entry fee to visit the monastery grounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Athens Views

Panoramic Athens Views

From the monastery grounds

Breathtaking vistas of Athens stretching out below, offering a unique perspective of the city.

Medieval Monastery Architecture

Medieval Monastery Architecture

Within the monastery complex

Explore the charming Byzantine architecture and serene courtyards of this historic religious site.

Ancient Shrine Foundations

Ancient Shrine Foundations

Beneath the monastery

Discover the layers of history, including ruins of an ancient shrine to Aphrodite.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Kaisariani

Kaisariani Monastery is a popular spot, especially for its views. To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist season. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer visitors. Reddit

Understanding Kaisariani's Status

While it's called a monastery, Kaisariani is no longer an active religious site. It functions more as a historical attraction with an entry fee. This might surprise some visitors expecting a functioning monastery. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, great views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Un colt de rai care a fost construit acum 925 ani în urma care astăzi este un loc arheologic și plin de credință. #greece #athens #monastery #arheology #kaisariani #familydayout❤️
annadianu
20 likes • 220 views

🚶‍♀️ Hike Mt. Hymettos

The paved road from Kaisariani is an easy way to start your hike up Mt. Hymettos. Reddit

🎟️ Entry Fee

There's a small entry fee to visit the monastery grounds. Reddit

Nestled in the lush hills of Ymittos, Kaisariani Monastery is a peaceful escape from the bustle of Athens 🏞️✨ This ancient Byzantine monastery, dating back to the 11th century, offers not only a deep dive into Greek history but also a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and relaxation. Surrounded by nature and perched on the mountainside, the monastery provides stunning views of the city and ...
greekality
130 likes • 4.7K views
While searching apartments from Athens we got distracted by this cool Kaisariani monastery⛪️ Beautiful frescos, it would be cool to live here but they wouldn’t tell me what the rent is🤷‍♀️ #kaisariani #kaisarianimonastery #hymettos #ymittosmountain #ymittos #monastery #mountainlife #greece #visitgreece #greekmonastery #athens #visitathens #travel #travelgram #exploregreece #expatlife #expatgreece...
eskapistit
16 likes • 920 views

🌳 Nature Escape

Enjoy the surrounding forest and natural beauty for a peaceful break from the city. Reddit

Come ride with us to Μονή Καισαριανής 🇬🇷 (Kaisariani Monastery, Greece) ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ #greece #athens #hiking #monestary #athensgreece #mountains #santorini #milos #islandhopping #europe #travel #adventure
crocodiledunb
38 likes • 611 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Hike Mt. Hymettos

The paved road from Kaisariani is an easy way to start your hike up Mt. Hymettos. Reddit

🎟️ Entry Fee

There's a small entry fee to visit the monastery grounds. Reddit

🌳 Nature Escape

Enjoy the surrounding forest and natural beauty for a peaceful break from the city. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Kaisariani Monastery for its stunning panoramic views of Athens and its serene, historical atmosphere. The surrounding forest offers a peaceful escape, and the site's layered history, from ancient shrines to medieval architecture, is a significant draw. Some visitors note that it's no longer an active monastery and requires an entry fee.

"I was not aware of this special place….with all the nice things to do in Athens….it has been a wonderful discovery.
You can arriva by walk on Ymittos mountain (but you need to be well trained and equipped) or by car.
Ticket is 5 EUR (June 2025).
Inside very nice to see the church, the kitchens, the rooms…."

manucsn

"Peaceful and beautiful monastery with well-preserved architecture and fresco paintings. 5 Euro entrance ticket. We took the bus from downtown (Rte 224) and then it’s about a 40min walk along road/hiking to get to the monastery. Make sure to check out the lovely viewpoint just ~200m away!"

Jess Ma

"The ticket costs 5 euro, and kids go for free. Very quiet place, so greatful I had a chance to touch the history by visiting this place🙏"

Lena Kim

What People Like

Spectacular Athens views
Historic architecture
Peaceful forest setting

What People Dislike

Not an active monastery
Entry fee required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Kaisariani Monastery by car or taxi, which offers the most direct route. Public transport options involve buses that get you close, followed by a walk. The paved road from Kaisariani is also a popular starting point for hiking up Mt. Hymettos. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available near the monastery, especially if you are arriving by car. It can get busy during peak times.

While it's a bit of a trek from central Athens, you can walk or hike to Kaisariani, especially if you're starting from areas closer to Mount Hymettus. The paved road from Kaisariani is a well-known route for uphill walks. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check locally or online before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours but may have specific closing times. Reddit

Yes, there is an entry ticket required to visit the monastery. The fee is usually modest and contributes to its upkeep. Reddit

No, Kaisariani Monastery is not an active religious site anymore. It is maintained as a historical monument and tourist attraction. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the medieval monastery's architecture, enjoy panoramic views of Athens, and see remnants of an ancient shrine to Aphrodite. The surrounding forest also offers a natural escape. Reddit

Absolutely! The paved road leading from Kaisariani is a popular and relatively easy route for hiking up Mount Hymettus, offering beautiful scenery and city views. Reddit

The site has a long history, with early Christian ruins and an ancient shrine to Aphrodite predating the medieval monastery. It's a place where different historical eras converge. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kaisariani Monastery offers a unique blend of history and nature that can engage families. The Kaisariani Monastery & Forest provides a chance for kids to explore ancient grounds and enjoy a walk in a natural setting. The panoramic views of Athens can also be a fun discovery for younger visitors. Reddit

While the monastery itself might be more about quiet contemplation, the surrounding forest and the gentle uphill path towards Mount Hymettus offer opportunities for light exploration and physical activity. Pack some snacks and water, and make it a half-day adventure combining history and a breath of fresh air outside the city bustle. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Hiking Enthusiasts

The Monastery of Kaisariani hike is a significant draw for those who love the outdoors. The paved road starting from the monastery is a well-trodden path up Mount Hymettus, offering a pleasant and accessible hiking experience. You'll be rewarded with stunning views of Athens and the surrounding landscape as you climb. Reddit

Beyond the immediate hike, the Kaisariani Forest itself is a beautiful area for nature walks. It provides a tranquil escape from the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or a peaceful stroll before or after visiting the monastery. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Kaisariani Monastery is more than just a beautiful medieval structure; it's a site layered with history. Built over early Christian ruins, its origins trace back even further to an ancient shrine dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite. This makes it a fascinating location for understanding the evolution of religious and cultural practices in the region. The monastery itself, with its characteristic Byzantine architecture, offers a serene glimpse into monastic life from centuries past. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the unique blend of historical periods present at the site. While it's no longer an active monastery, its preservation allows for an appreciation of its architectural and historical significance. The surrounding Kaisariani Forest adds to the appeal, providing a natural setting that complements the historical monument. Reddit

The Hiking Trail to Hymettus

For those looking to combine a visit to the monastery with some outdoor activity, the Monastery of Kaisariani hike is a popular choice. The paved road that starts from the monastery area is a well-known and relatively straightforward path for ascending Mount Hymettus. This route is favored by many for its accessibility and the rewarding views it offers. Reddit

This trail is ideal for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous hike, depending on your pace. As you ascend, the urban sprawl of Athens gradually unfolds below, providing increasingly spectacular panoramic vistas. It's a fantastic way to experience both the historical site and the natural beauty of the Attica region. Reddit

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