Athens National Garden

The Athens National Garden, known as the National Garden of Athens, is a peaceful 15.5-hectare public park located behind the Hellenic Parliament building in Syntagma Square. Originally designed as a private royal garden for Queen Amalia in the 19th century, it was opened to the public in the 1920s. The garden features a rich collection of native and exotic plants, winding paths, ponds, and a small zoo with animals like peacocks and goats. Scattered throughout are ancient ruins, including a Roman mosaic and remnants of the ancient aqueduct. The garden provides a cool respite from the bustling city, with shaded benches and a café. It's a favorite spot for locals to jog, stroll, or relax. The adjacent Zappeion Hall and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are within walking distance, making it a perfect stop on a sightseeing route.

Don't miss

• Relax by the duck pond and watch the turtles
• Visit the small zoo with peacocks and goats
• Discover the ancient Roman mosaic and ruins
• Stroll under the shaded paths of palm and olive trees
• Enjoy a coffee at the garden's café near the playground

Know before you go

• The garden is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Gates close at dusk.
• Bring small change to buy food for the turtles and fish from vending machines near the pond.
• Combine your visit with the nearby Zappeion Hall and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
• The small zoo is a hit with kids, but note that animals are in enclosures.

A bit of history

The garden was commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838 and designed by the German agronomist Friedrich Schmidt. It was initially a private royal garden, planted with over 500 species of plants from around the world. After the monarchy was abolished, it was renamed the National Garden and opened to the public in 1923.