How to spend Valentine’s Day in Athens

When you picture Athens on Valentine's Day, you probably picture something magical. The most romantic day of the year is the perfect time to take advantage of the modern old city and all the wonderful things it offers you and your significant other. Athens is full of romantic opportunities, from the Parthenon's nocturnal illumination to the winding pedestrian alleyways of Plaka, to the city's many lush parks and live events. Undoubtedly, Valentine's Day festivities enhance the sweetness of these moments. 

In lieu of rehashing the same old list of romantic things to do in Athens for doting couples, we have branched out a bit for Valentine's Day and listed some other ways to enjoy the holiday of love with your significant other, best friends, or even your family. After all, the world needs more love. So here are a few top things couples can do in Athens on February 14th.

Wander around the streets of Plaka

The historic district of Plaka can be found in close proximity to the Acropolis on the hill's northern and eastern slopes, and it features a tangle of narrow lanes steeped in history. Here you can visit quaint local businesses, fashionable boutiques, classically-styled homes, and even some stunning archaeological sites from ancient Greece. Then, stop for a drink at one of the many sidewalk cafes, find a bench to sit on and watch the world go by, or enter one of the many cosy taverns that dot the area.

Pláka District, Athens

Plaka, Athens 105 58, Grèce

Enjoy the view from the Acropolis

Some of the most breathtaking panoramas may be found atop the Acropolis, the indelible symbol of this ancient city. Mounted on a hilltop with no other structures visible in the distance, this location provides a breathtaking view of the Greek capital below. Admiring the cityscape is a beautiful way to spend an evening in Athens. Snap photos of love with your partner, and let the scenery enchant you.

Acropolis, Athens

Athènes 104 32, Grèce

Temple of Athena, Parthenon, Athens

Parthenonos, Athina 117 42, Grèce

Escape to Cape Sounio

A romantic getaway may be challenging to organise, but a weekend in the woods is simple enough. South of the village of Lavrio and about 70 km (43 mi) southeast of Athens's downtown, Cape Sounio marks the southernmost extremity of the Attic peninsula. Sounio is perfect for couples looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a romantic getaway with breathtaking sunsets, panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf, and the twinkling lights of Athens just across the water.

Temple of Poseidon, Sounion, Athens

Leof. Athinon Souniou 67ο ΧΛΜ, Sounio 195 00, Greece

Hike to the Mount Lycabettus

Lycabettus is a 300-meter (900-foot) hill in the centre of Athens and is widely considered to be the city's most popular and well-known landmark. It is the best place to see the Attica basin and its surroundings, as it sits atop the tallest point in the area. Its pine and Mediterranean shrub-covered hills make it seem like an oasis in the centre of the metropolis. A romantic promenade atop Lycabettus, with views of the apex and the traditional church-bell tower of Saint George, will be one of the highlights of your February 14th excursion. The funicular railway up Mt. Lycabettus is open every day of the year, making it accessible by car and on foot.

Mount Lycabettus, Athens

Lycabette, Athènes 114 71, Grèce

Book a room with a view in one of Athens’ luxury hotels

There are several lovely hotels in Athens, perfect for a romantic Valentine's Day stay with your significant other. Here are a couple of our top picks that scream "special occasion" to tourists and locals. Hotels like the Grande Bretagne appeal to those interested in design, while the Margi in the Kifissia suburb caters to those interested in art. Those interested in the sea and sunsets will appreciate the Grande Resort Lagonissi and Cape Sounio. The icing on the cake? The hotel breakfast in bed!

Athens Riviera, Athens

Zefirou 4, Paleo Faliro 175 64, Greece

Hotel Grande Bretagne, Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square Str, Αθήνα 105 64, Ελλάδα

Go to a hammam and unwind

While in this part of the world, try out the local spa tradition of a hammam. Hammams, or Turkish baths, are a sort of wet steam bath typically held in marbled halls. Some romantic spots, like Al Hammam in Plaka, provide hammam and massage packages for couples.

Share a meal at one of Athens' best restaurants

Why not take Valentine's Day as an excuse to try one of the many excellent restaurants in Athens (with more than just Greek cuisine)? If you are searching for the gourmet version of cuisine in Athens, there are so many options; you may check out Kolonaki, Mets, or the Athens coastal suburbs of Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni with the help of our local experts. Nonetheless, a delicious souvlaki overlooking the Acropolis is always an old-time-classic thing to do in Athens. 

Indulge in a wine-tasting night out

Winepoint is a wine hub close to the Acropolis, its museum, and all the other local attractions, making it an ideal spot for wine tasting and sightseeing in the city centre. You can enjoy a wide variety of delicious cold platters (free with the purchase of a bottle of wine) while perusing the extensive wine list, which features several rare Greek wines. We recommend Greek cheeses and advise you to call ahead for a reservation - especially on the weekends.

Winepoint, Athens

Πορίνου 2, Αθήνα 117 42, Ελλάδα

Visit the Cultural Centre of Stavros Niarchos

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center was donated to the Greek government to support the country's cultural and educational development. Although it is still in its infancy, the Cultural Center will eventually house the National Museum of Modern Art and the first Opera House in Greece. Unique architecture, a pleasant walk along the Athens Riviera, and the garden's availability of outdoor sports and fitness classes make this location well worth a visit, especially when your partner is into arts and local culture!

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Athens

Stavros Niarchos Park, Leof. Andrea Siggrou 364, Athina 176 74, Ελλάδα

When thinking about spending a Valentine's Day in Athens, your mind conjures up a mystical scene. Wait no more. Take advantage of the Greek capital and all its offerings on Valentine's Day, the most romantic day of the year. Love is in Athens!