Credit: Christmasmarketsineurope.com
Athens is without a doubt one of the most popular European destinations during Spring and Summer months. The Acropolis of Athens with the Parthenon and a plethora of other vital to global history monuments is a desired hub for holiday goers.
Christmas is also a very popular holiday worldwide but Athens isn’t the first city that comes to one’s mind when planning a Christmas holiday for them and the significant other.
In this article, my aim is to convince you that Athens not only is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe, but also a lovely Christmas destination for you and your significant other.
There might not be snow covered buildings and Christmas carols in every corner, but there is something about the lights, the smell of cinnamon and the optimistic vibe that makes Athens magical and romantic during the ‘most wonderful time of the year’.
Written by Savina Skourmalla on 04-12-2023
Christmas in Athens for couples – Visit Syntagma square and Stavros Niarchos cultural center
In the heart of Athens, the festive mood peaks every December when the main square of the city, Syntagma Square is adorned with thousands of beautiful lights and decorations and of course, the big christmas tree in the middle. There is an annual event with live music and street food in which the mayor of Athens lights up the impressive tree to mark the beginning of the festive season.
The colourful lights and displays are the perfect background for the sweetest and most loving instagram posts and selfies for couples and families alike and the festive atmosphere spreads across the square and beyond.
On the opposite side of the street is one of the biggest shopping emporiums in the city, Public, the buildings’ facade is illuminated with red lights and a big bow and while looking at it from afar it looks like a huge christmas present!
Credit: ThisisAthens.org
The biggest shopping street of the area, Ermou street is bustling with life and holiday shoppers who pack the jolly decorated stores for their last minute christmas shopping.
If you are travelling in Athens with your significant other make sure to take lots of pictures in front of the Christmas tree in Syntagma square, shop till you drop in Ermou street and enjoy a hot coffee or chocolate on top of the Public emporium with a gorgeous view of the decorated square.
Not far from the Syntagma square, a true jewel of modern Greek architecture is found. The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural centre is a multi-purpose building complex that during the Christmas period turns into a wonderful winter paradise. There is an ice-skating rink, lots of Christmas trees and lights, beautiful installations and of course a rich program of Christmas themed events and workshops. In SNFC centre you and your partner will be able to listen to christmas music from a live band while you test out your skills at the skating rink and walk across the beautiful christmas lit fountain. The majestic christmas atmosphere will definitely make this experience for you and your partner an unforgettable one!
Credit: Snfcc.org
Christmas in Athens for couples – Visit the Christmas village in Technopolis!
Picture this. A whole Christmas village taken out of fairytales and Christmas movies with elves, christmas cabins, warm chocolate and christmas carols. If that reminds you more of Christmas in Vienna or Copenhagen, think again! Every year, the municipality of Athens organises a huge fest called ‘Christmas Village’ in Technopolis of Athens.
The Technopolis of Athens becomes a true winter wonderland with lots of souvenir and gift shops, food and drink carts and lots of activities certain to put you in the right mood for christmas.
The Christmas factory in Technopolis is open throughout December from the morning until late at night and it’s a perfect getaway in the heart of Athens for children and adults alike.
If you plan on paying a visit with your partner, be prepared to see (and hear!) a lot of excited children. So if you are looking for a quieter day or evening with your significant other maybe it’s better to avoid the Christmas village. However, this is an experience you shouldn’t miss if you want to experience the true local Christmas vibe.
Christmas in Athens for couples – Try traditional Christmas delicacies!
Food plays a vital role in the Christmas experience in Greece and it’s embodied in tradition and flavours!
Forget about Gingerbread houses and christmas cookies and get ready to get your hands dirty with Greek delicacies that are only available during this time of the year.
The champion of all christmas delicacies is definitely ‘melomakarona’ which is a type of semolina biscuits dipped in a syrup made of honey, olive oil and flavoured with cinnamon, clove,orange and walnuts. There are modern versions of this traditional dessert with chocolate or red velvet base.
Credit: Ethnos.gr
The second place goes to ‘kourampiedes’ which is another type of butter biscuits fused in rose water and powdered in sugar. It’s less sweet than melomakarona but it’s an absolute must for the Greek family table.
These two delicacies usually go hand in hand and there is almost no Greek house during the holidays that does not offer both to guests, either homemade or bought.
All bakeries and pastry shops in Greece make tons of these delicacies so they are always available to anyone, throughout December.
As you’re enjoying a coffee with your partner at the balcony of your accommodation make sure to have a box of melomakarona and kourampiedes to munch on the side as these are the perfect breakfast or post lunch/dinner treat!
Christmas in Athens for couples – Visit Arachova ski resort
If you are still not convinced about visiting Athens during Christmas and you cannot imagine holidays without snow, then you can always visit Arachova, a village only 2 hours away from Athens. Arachova is one of the most popular winter destinations for short weekend escapes from the city. In Arachova, besides the picturesque stone houses and beautiful shops you will find the truly fantastic ski resort of Parnassos.
Credit: Hoteltrokadero.com
The snowy slopes of the mountain of Parnassos is a main attraction for ski and winter sports fans with a well organised resort and hotel surrounded by rocky landscapes and grasslands.
The ski resort of Arachova and the village is the perfect place for a romantic couple getaway and should definitely be added in your itinerary if you have more days to spare.
Christmas in Athens for couples – Athens by Bike tours!
Christmas in Athens is a whole new adventure which you shouldn’t miss out on!
The vibe and atmosphere in the city is something extraordinary that will certainly give you wonderful memories and new experiences.
If you are convinced but still unsure regarding what to do and what to see while in Athens we have the best solution for you.
Our bike tour in Athens is definitely the best activity for anyone who wants to learn and see all about Athens in a short period of time. This fun and unique sightseeing experience will be the highlight of your stay in Athens as you and your partner will get a lovely overview of the jolly Christmas city and learn everything about the ancient and modern city.
After the tour you will also be equipped with many tips and suggestions about how to enjoy the ultimate christmas experience in Athens like a true local!
