Tip of the day – Pedion tou Areos: A Green Escape in the Heart of Athens

• April 28, 2023

Right in the hustle and bustle of central Athens lies one of the city’s largest and most historic parks—Pedion tou Areos. Named after the ancient Greek god of war, Ares, this green haven offers a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike. With shaded pathways, statues of heroes from the Greek Revolution, and plenty of benches to relax on, it’s the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a morning stroll, or even experience a slice of everyday Athenian life. Whether you’re seeking nature, history, or just a quiet moment in the city, Pedion tou Areos is worth a visit.

Discover more about Pedion Areos,  as well the rest parks of Athens in our Athens travel guide!

National Archaeological  Museum

Of course, don’t leave from the neighborhood before visiting the National Archaeological Museum which is located right next to the park, the largest and maybe the most important museum of Athens. Even if there is not a temporary exhibition the day you want to visit it, its permanent exhibition  has some of the most important archaeological treasures worth visiting and it would be your right beginning for your journey  to ancient Greece. If your are interested in a National Archaeological Museum Private Guided Tour, check here, or, if you just  want to book your ticket with an audioguide, check here!

Current exhibition: “Minoan octopi” 29 October 2025 – 26 January 2026

The Unseen Museum is the well-known exhibition project of the Hellenic National Archaeological Museum that brings to the fore antiquities stored in its vaults, away from the visitor’s eyes.

The Unseen Museum presents the “Minoan octopi”. It is a clay chest-shaped larnax and three stirrup jars dating to the 13th and 12th centuries BCΕ, originating from Crete. These objects served as offerings and “vessels of death” dedicated to the deceased.

Large painted octopi spread across the surfaces of the larnax and coil tightly around the bodies of the vessels, inviting speculation about the enigmatic symbolism of this sea creature within the Minoan theology of death. The larnax and the three vases come from the Minoan Collection of the National Archaeological Museum and are presented in the exhibition for the first time.

The ” Minoan octopi” are presented in the Altar Hall (Hall 34) from Wednesday, October 29 to Monday, January 26, 2026.

Check here more details and plan  your visit!

Previous events happening in the park:

Plasmata3  Exhibition – 27th May to 15th June, 2025

Books ‘n Beer Festival – 13th to 15th June 2025

Athens Cocktail Weekend, 27 & 28 September 2025