The Plaka (Athens)

The historic quarter of the Plaka is right in the heart of bustling Athens city centre, but has a real village atmosphere, criss-crossed by innumerable winding lanes filled with cafes, workshops, boutiques and quaint market stalls. Car free and full of local character, many people on Athens short breaks base themselves here and do little more than strolling its timeless lanes browsing for gifts, eating, making merry and exploring its many historic landmarks. Located on the slopes of the Acropolis, thousands of tourists come here every year to enjoy its charm and colourful character but there is much to see and do for ancient history buffs too.

 

Dotted throughout the area are many fascinating museums and churches and it probably deserves at least a couple of days to explore in detail. There is the Greek Jewish Museum, the Museum of Greek Folk Art, the Athens University Museum and the Cultural Heritage Centre is one place definitely worth exploring. Family city breaks in Athens can do much worse than a few fun filled hours at the charming Children's Museum. Just as prolific are the many classical monuments and statues that have stood proudly here for centuries. These include the ornate Lysicratus Statue and throughout the area fascinating archaeological excavations are still discovering treasures from ancient times.

 

The Plaka is essentially made up of attractive neo classical buildings and old Byzantine churches and as a protected area, few modern buildings blot its landscape. It all makes for a pleasant stroll through history, but its unique character is the real highlight. It has an eccentricity and verve like nowhere else on Athens weekend breaks and offers the most entertaining and enjoyable shopping experience imaginable. It is littered with age old artisan’s workshops, trendy retro fashion stores, cheap jewellery boutiques and no shortage of quaint family run tavernas. Look out for the charismatic street artists, flower sellers and musicians who are sure to bring a smile to your face.