What to Do in Plaka—
2025 Plaka Guide for Cruisers 

In Plaka you can explore ancient archaeological gems, wander through the charming cobblestone alleyways, stock up on souvenirs, and enjoy the traditional taverns. It’s a relaxed, picturesque stroll just five minutes from the Acropolis Museum—with all these just a 30-minute ride from the cruise ship, Plaka is a must-see after your Acropolis visit. 

What is Plaka?

Metropol cafe in Mitropoleos square at the entrance to the Plaka when coming from Syntagma square

Nestled at the base of the Acropolis, Plaka—often called the “Neighborhood of the Gods”—is one of Athens’s most picturesque and historic districts, perfect for cruise passengers seeking charm within easy walking distance of the Acropolis.

At its heart, Adrianou Street stretches below the Acropolis slopes, lined with cafés and tavernas whose tables spill into cozy lanes, inviting you to taste authentic Greek flavors.

This area moves at a gentler pace: time slows down amid neoclassical facades, artisan markets, souvenir shops, and hidden alleyways offering tranquil corners and unexpected ruins beneath your feet—it's a perfect spot to explore and slow down after all the crowds at the Acropolis. 

Where is the Plaka in Athens? 

You can see the Acropolis up on the hill

For convenience, Plaka sits just a 5-minute walk from the Acropolis Museum and the southern Acropolis entrance, making it an ideal first or last stop on your day ashore.

Finally, from Plaka, it’s simple to stroll to Monastiraki Square or return to Syntagma Square.

At both of those locations there are metro stations where you can catch your train back to the cruise port at Piraeus if you decide to do so. 

In the photo on the left you can see the ancient Agora remains in Plaka with the Acropolis on top of the hill in the back. 

Keep reading to find out what to do in Plaka.

Map of the Plaka Neighbourhood

Right below you can find my map of the Plaka area and see what to do in Plaka.

I have marked the two metro stops on line #1 that starts in the port of Piraeus and takes you into Athens:

• Monastiraki (closer to the ancient Agora site and the markets) 
• and Syntagma Square (if you want to see the Parliament before visiting the Plaka),

You can use both to reach the Plaka area by metro train from the cruise ship. 

I have also marked the direction from Syntagma Square into the Plaka down Mitropoleos Street. Also, there are directions for the stroll down the Adrianou street (the heart of the Plaka) from the Monastiraki station. 

How to get to Plaka from the Piraeus cruise port?

The express tourist bus X80 that leaves from Piraeus cruise port, can drop you off in Syntagma square, just 5-10 minutes walk from the Plaka

There are many options when it comes to getting from the cruise port of Piraeus to Plaka. In short, you can either use...

• the taxi
• Metro line #1
• The cruise line organized shore excursions (not many to choose from and pricey!)
• Express bus #X80 (go all the way to Syntagma square!)
• Local public bus
• The hop-on, hop-off bus
• Independently booked shore excursions (see the best ones I have picked for you below)

If you would like to know more, read my page about transport options from the Piraeus cruise port to central Athens. 

What to do in Plaka? What to see in Plaka?

When stepping into Plaka, here are some charming historical highlights worth exploring:

• Church of Agios Nikolaos Rangavas (11th century): A peaceful Byzantine gem hidden on Prytaneiou Street, featuring the historic bell that rang upon Athens’ liberation from the Ottoman rule in 1821 (when all the bells were forbidden to ring) and in 1944, after the liberation from the German occupation.
• Church of Panagia Kapnikarea (11th century): Built atop an ancient Greek temple—possibly of Athena or Demeter—which can be seen in the middle of one of the busiest shopping areas of Athens, Ermou street (one of the ways you can go down into Plaka from the Syntagma Square).
• Nestled halfway down Mitropoleos Street (another route you can take from Syntagma Square), Agia Dynami is a striking tiny 16th-century Orthodox chapel that feels like it's squeezed beneath the edge of the Electra Metropolis Hotel lobby. Despite city redevelopment plans, the church was preserved—literally built around—when the modern building was constructed above it!

The position of Agia Dynami in Mitropoleo street is just surreal

Agua Dynami church detail

Agia Dynami church detail

Roman Agora & Tower of the Winds: Just outside Plaka’s pedestrian lanes, discover the remains of the ancient Roman market, the Gate of Athena Archegetis, and the octagonal Tower of the Winds clock/tide structure—an urban archaeological highlight.

The Library of Hadrian, built around AD 132 just north of Monastiraki, was much more than a book vault—it served as a vibrant intellectual center, housing thousands of scrolls while providing reading rooms, lecture halls, and meeting spaces where scholars gathered for discussions, public readings, copying, and philosophical debates, reflecting Hadrian’s vision of Athens as a hub of learning.

look out for the signs—that's how you'll know you're looking at the Hadrian's Library

The map of all the archeological remains in the Plaka

What to shop for in Plaka?

In Plaka you will find many exciting things to shop for:

• from t-shirts, magnets, and postcards to Greek ceramic replicas; 
• from olive wood handicrafts to luxury 22-karat gold jewelry with typical designs like the Greek key (the meandros); 
• and from Greek and Oriental rugs to evil eye charms. 

Here's a list of quality items that were always suggested to our cruise passengers to take home as the best buys:

• Handmade Leather Sandals
  Effortlessly stylish and comfortable, these sandals (notably from Melissinos on Agias Theklas Street) come in many colors and sizes. They're a local classic. 
• Traditional Komboloi (Worry Beads)
  These worry beads are more than souvenirs—they’re part of Greek culture. Made from glass, amber, or wood, they offer a tactile memory of your visit. 
• Greek Olive Oil & Local Spices
  High-quality olive oil (often from Crete or Lesbos) and native herbs like oregano, thyme, or mountain tea make excellent culinary gifts. Pack in checked luggage or pick up at the airport. 
• Handcrafted Jewelry (Byzantine or Ancient Motifs)
  Featuring designs like Greek keys, olive branches, or evil-eye symbols, these pieces showcase local artistry and heritage—look for shops like Konstantino if you like Byzantine jewelry with a modern twist! They have a boutique at 20 Pandrossou Street in the heart of Plaka. 
• Traditional Tavli (Backgammon) Set
  Considered one of Greece’s oldest pastimes, tavli boards—often made from olive wood—are both beautiful and functional. Great for game lovers or wall display!

What are the best restaurants in the Plaka?

A typical Greek lunch

Enjoy a glass of Greek house wine

The best restaurants in Plaka are traditional, homey, and still picked by the locals. They can be a bit touristy—but still highly rated for good reason. These places have gorgeous views, lively atmospheres, and polished menus that cater to international visitors without totally losing Greek soul.

Here are a few recommendations that my cruise guests always found satisfying:

1. To Kafeneio (Epicharmou 1)— A cozy, long-standing tavern (since 1836) beloved by locals. Their meze plates—especially crunchy meatballs (keftedes), cheese pie (tyropita), leek pie, and fasolada (bean soup)—are simple, authentic, and deeply satisfying. 

2. Saita Tavern (Kydathineon 21, beside Metamorfosi Kottaki Church)— Hidden in a quieter alley, this homey spot is famous for bakaliaros skordalia—battered salt cod with garlic dip—alongside grilled lamb chops, savory meatballs, and baked aubergine with feta. A solid pick for Greek comfort food.

3. The Old Tavern of Psarras (Erechtheos 16)—Serving traditional Greek dishes since 1898 in a charming Plaka corner. Try moussaka, stuffed grape leaves (dolmades), Greek salad, eggplant salad, and tableside saganaki for a festive start. Great ambiance and music too. 

What to do in Plaka FAQ

1. Is Plaka a nice area of Athens?

Yes, Plaka is widely considered one of Athens' most charming neighborhoods. It is recognized for its tiny cobblestone lanes, neoclassical buildings, vegetation, and breathtaking views.

2. What is Plaka famous for?

It is Athens' oldest area, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" because of its proximity to the Acropolis and ancient ruins. It's a bustling quarter with tourist stores, tavernas, cafes, museums, and historical sites like the Lysicrates Monument and Roman Agora.

3. How long does it take to walk around Plaka?

Most cruise guests spend about 2-3 hours casually wandering Plaka, which is enough time to visit important streets, browse shops, grab a coffee, and even have lunch. 

4. Is Plaka, Athens, safe? 

Yes, Plaka is regarded as one of Athens' safest neighborhoods. Even after dark, it feels safe because of the substantial police presence, well-lit streets, and heavy foot traffic. Violent crime is uncommon, although minor theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur—especially in busy areas.