On the south side of the Acropolis, between the Acropolis Museum and Philopappos Hill, lie two residential districts that have won travellers over in recent years. Makrygianni, named after the War of Independence general Ioannis Makrygiannis, is the closest to the rock, with elegant buildings and upscale hotels. Koukaki, just to the south, is a district of 1960s and 70s apartment blocks, small shops and little squares, home to families, students and artists.
What to do
| Place | Why |
|---|---|
| Acropolis Museum | A few steps away, with its panoramic terrace, see the page |
| Dionysiou Areopagitou Street | The great pedestrian promenade at the foot of the rock |
| Drakou Street | Pedestrian street with cafés, bars and tavernas, busy in the evening |
| Georgiou Olympiou and Veikou streets | Bakeries, delis, small restaurants and bars |
| Ilias Lalaounis Museum | Designer jewellery inspired by ancient art |
| Philopappos Hill | Paths, pines and the best view of the Parthenon at sunset |
| Open-air cinema | In summer, with the Acropolis as a backdrop |
Eating and going out
Koukaki has one of the most interesting food scenes in Athens: neighbourhood tavernas frequented by residents, bakeries selling pies and koulouria, speciality coffee shops, mezedopolia and cocktail bars. Prices are lower than in Plaka and the quality often better. In the evening Drakou Street and nearby lanes fill with tables. See where to eat.
Staying in Koukaki
Koukaki is now one of the most sought-after districts for short-term rentals: it is quiet, safe, well connected and a few minutes' walk from the Acropolis, its museum and Plaka. The tourism boom has, however, pushed up rents for residents, and the district has become a symbol of the gentrification debate in Athens. For travellers with children or staying several days it is one of the best choices. See where to stay.
Getting there
Akropoli and Syngrou-Fix metro stations, on red line 2, serve both districts, with direct links to Syntagma and Omonia. From the airport, change at Syntagma. To the south, on Syngrou Avenue, are the National Museum of Contemporary Art and the Onassis Stegi; see contemporary art.
See also Plaka and Athens neighbourhoods.