Easter is intertwined with the celebratory atmosphere and the religious fervor evoked by the events of these days. It is, however—in its divine dimension—also a celebration of spring, an opportunity to experience the blossoming and bright Athens almost exclusively, considering the departure of hundreds of thousands from its borders.
In the setting created by these more relaxed rhythms, the city becomes a field of experiences that would not be easy to live under other circumstances. And yet, if you can embrace the opportunities offered by the traditions of the season and the activities provided by the city, you will find that these days can become the most interesting.
Initially, you can use your time for walks in places you haven’t strolled through in a while. Mount Lycabettus offers many alternatives, as you can take the route that leads you to the Benaki Museum, the picturesque neighborhoods of Petralona, or head to the central Koukaki to enjoy food and drinks in some of the city’s most beautiful spots.
Furthermore, if you wish to take a walk in one of the city’s parks, you can head either to the National Garden and transfer to the city center, to a place exotic yet ideal for those with children or our four-legged friends. At the same pace, there’s the Pedion tou Areos, which hosts a highly interesting market where you can find candles, decorations, books, and many other Easter items. For those who want to combine leisure with cycling, just outside the narrow confines of Athens, there’s the Mediterranean garden of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.
Furthermore, since you are in the city during Holy Week, it’s worth attending the Epitaph procession. There are many churches where you can experience the atmospheric event in a unique urban or natural setting. Particularly, at the Monastery of Kaisariani, the procession takes place at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, while the Epitaph is decorated that same morning. The church of Agios Dimitrios Loubardiaris in Thissio, set in a lush environment, and Kapnikarea in Ermou are two more landmarks of religious experience for the same day. Of course, the much more popular Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens is also a good choice, as well as the Holy Monastery of Petraki, where the main church dates back to the 10th century.
Holy Thursday: The crucification, the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper
Of course, there is also time for a creative exploration of Athens’ museums. The Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, the National Historical Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Museum of Cycladic Art are some of the most interesting and accessible options for engaging with the past of history, culture, and art, as they are literally located at the heart of the city.
Your stay in the city during these days definitely pairs perfectly with special treats. So, the spotlight is on bakeries for tsoureki (Greek Easter bread) and ouzeri for the precious accompaniment they offer to the fasting appetizers of the season. Regarding tsoureki, Asimakopoulos in Exarchia (Charilaou Trikoupi 85), the bakery Baklavas in Syntagma (Nikis 10), and Sweet Alchemies in Kolonaki (Herodotou 24) are noteworthy spots. As for ouzeri, “Lakis” in Victorias Square stands out with its marinated anchovies and fried calamari, while you’ll have the chance to enjoy exquisite ouzo appetizers at “Lesvos” on Emmanouil Benaki Street in Exarchia.
