Nestled in between the Acropolis hill and the bustling Plaka district, Anafiotika is hard to find, but once you do find it, you know you’ve stumbled upon a gem of a secret that only the locals know about.
Speaking of locals, asking Athenians for directions is key, as this uphill neck of the woods is, as mentioned, difficult to locate – even with a smartphone.
It may seem tempting to give up (if you find yourself walking around in circles, like I did), but don’t! Once located, the rewards are plentiful – especially after the uphill trek – with views for miles.
At the top, you’ll also realize how this tiny neighbourhood doesn’t feel like Athens anymore – a city that usually gets a bad wrap for its pollution and crowdedness. The contrast between Plaka’s liveliness and how time stands still at the Acropolis is also jarring.
Missing Greece’s island vibes in the midst of the chaotic city below? Anafiotika (little Anafi in Greek) was actually built by workers who came from the island of Anafi in the mid-19th century, making it look – and feel – straight out of an island in the Cyclades.
Strictly residential, you’ll only find houses here (just under 50) and two Byzantine churches, but each corner is unique and colourful in its own right, boasting quirky details, along with gorgeous greenery and bougainvillea-draped homes.
Another bonus is the stunning views the numerous lookout points provide of Athens, the Acropolis, and the imposing Mount Lycabettus.
If seeking refuge from Athens’ sometimes overwhelming hustle and bustle – or if you’re craving a slice of island life while in the city – make sure a trip to Anafiotika is on your list the next time you visit the Greek capital.
Have you stumbled upon Athens’ Anafiotika before? What did you think? Let me know below!
Travelling is brilliant when you stumble across a secret gem like this place. It looks so peaceful and serene. Definitely somewhere to seek out if you are in Athens
Agreed 🙂
I am heading to Athens this November, so if I get good weather, i want to check out this area. I love wandering the unknown streets and taking photos of whitewashed buildings. 🙂 Bookmarked this page for future reference.
Thanks, Danik! I do hope you get the chance to visit 🙂
Love the photos, love the angles, love the colors. And the lovely little details, the flowers, the chairs, the views. Thanks.
Thanks, Carol 🙂
Anafiotika looks like a charming oasis within Athens. I particularly like your lead photograph of the house with the ochre colored walls with red shutters. It looks like it was well worth persevering until you found it!
Thank you, Ann! Haha, it’s still quite well preserved 🙂
We did a little wandering when we visited Athens. But certainly not enough. We definitely would want to visit Anafiotika when we visit again. I love the little colourful alleys. The trek uphill certainly led you to some great views. You certainly found a charming spot!
It’s truly a gem of a spot – a must if you get to visit Athens again 🙂
This is not how I picture Athens! I adore the stairs and the bougainvillea. This little neighborhood of Anafiotika will be on my Athens to do list for sure
Same! Was such a treat to find it!
Wow what a cute little walk! The sights are simple yet gorgeous! Just few houses and couple of churches away from the mad rush of city life. I want to get there now.
yup, that’s exactly what it is 🙂
It does look like an island hill town, and it’s truly lovely. Wouldn’t it be great to stay there and explore Athens from that amazing vantage point? You’d get stellar views every day.
Agreed! The best of both worlds 🙂
I have never stumbled to little Anafi — but OMG it is beautiful. It looks like something out of a painting. I think its incredible that its maintained its aesthetics since the 19th century. Absolutely on my bucket list.
Same! It’s quite incredible 🙂
I love off the beaten path places like that. It’s crazy that you can’t even locate it with your phone. And I totally get why you wanted to seek refuge from busy Athens. I felt the same.
Same, same, and same 😀