What to Do in the Plaka in Athens
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Plaka is a historic neighborhood in Athens. It was the center of ancient Greece and is the home of many archaeological sites. The neighborhood is located right below the Acropolis Hill. Plaka is a beautiful neighborhood with so much to experience. Here is what you should do when in Plaka, Greece.
Visit a Museum
The neighborhood of Plaka is home to a number of museums including the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments. This museum opened in 1991 and features the collection of musicologist Foivos Anogianakis who donated his folk music instruments to the museum. Established in 1994, the Hellenic Children’s Museum is aimed at anyone 12 years and older. Frissiras Museum is located in two buildings and its collections includes 3,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, and engravings of European artists. Canellopoulos Museum is a collection of approximately 6,000 artifacts and other objects the Canellopoulos family donated to the Greek state.
Take a Tour
Plaka has a number of tours for you to enjoy depending on your interests. If you want to see the hidden spots you might not otherwise know about in Plaka and other areas around Athens, there walking tours that will expose you to the areas. Other tours include: a tour of the Acropolis, bus tours, and even a night sight-seeing tour.
Visit a Historical Site
When visiting the Plaka neighborhood, you will have the opportunity to see many archaeological sites. The Acropolis is an important site that you shouldn’t miss. Also called the Sacred Rock, it is home to the Parthenon, the most famous Greek temple. Located on the northern side of the Acropolis, the Roman Agora was an ancient open marketplace. It dates back to the 1st century BC. The Roman Agora is easy to access as it is located near a metro station.
The Library of Hadrian, located at the north of the Roman Agora, housed lecture rooms, music, and books. The library was severely damaged during the Herulian Invasion, but repaired. Some parts still remain today. The Monument of Lysicrates is located on Lysicrates Square in Plake. This monument was erected by sponsor (or choregos in Greek) Lysicrates to commemorate first prize won by a performer he had sponsored.
Enjoy a Meal
Plaka is home to a variety of restaurants and bars. Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro is open until late and has an extensive wine list if you’re in the mood to try something new. If you’re vegan, Vegan Beat offers Greek and Mediterranean dishes that are vegan, vegetarian friendly, or gluten-free. In the mood for sushi? You will find Sushimou in Plaka. Sushimou also has gluten-free options. Fresko Yogurt Bar is the place to go if you are looking for a treat while you’re on the go.
The Plaka neighborhood in Athens has much to offer. From the history to the amazing variety of food, you won’t be disappointed when you visit. Walk around on your own or take a guided tour, either way you’re going experience a very special part of Greece.
Categorized in: About Athens, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
