National Garden in Athens
Botanical Gardens
Located in the heart of the city and surrounded by some of the most busy avenues in Athens city, the National Garden is a true calm gem. Its main entrance is located just a few meters away from the famous Syntagma or Constitution Square and the Parliament.
This green paradise used to be the private botanical garden of the first Queen of Greece, the young Queen Amalia. The impressive line of tall palm trees at the main entrance reflects this royal status. The park stays green all year long because it is irrigated by an ancient canal. The National Garden covers 15,5 acres with lash vegetation, landscaped gardens, tropical trees and plants from all over the world and open grass fields. Your kids will love the orange glow of the orange trees all over the park. Discover the garden’s hidden secrets, by walking through the labyrinth- like paths, romantic corners, hidden benches, beautiful flower pergolas and little brooks.
Ancient findings and monuments
One of the most important spots of the garden is the sun clock at the central entrance on Amalias avenue. The garden also features an important Roman mosaic floor and ancient columns. The connecting Zappeio hosts buildings from the first modern Olympic Games and an impressive collection of garden statues.
Zoo, playground, and Children’s Library
In the middle of the National Garden, near the Presidential Residence, is a small zoo with some goats, birds and hens. There is also a lake with ducks and a turtle pond. Continue to the east and you will find a large, pine trees-covered playground with wooden play structures and large swings. You can also check the National Garden Children’s Library. No entrance fee is applied and the kids can read books, listen to classical music or do creative activities.
The National Garden is a great place for families to take a break from sightseeing and the noise of the city. Kids can run around safely or play at the playground and parents can relax in the shade of the many tall trees. There is something to do for everyone!
Families should know
- Dedicate at least half a day to visit the National Garden
- Bring snacks and water
- The small zoo is primitive
- The Children’s Library is open daily apart from weekends from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. but closed on public holidays. Fairy-tale narration (in Greek) from October until June
- Most books in the Children’s library are in Greek, there are a few foreign books
- There is no supervision at the Children’s library. You need to stay with your kids
- There is no parking at the National Garden but you can use public transport or park at Aegli Garden Cafe at Zappeio
- Free entrance from early in the morning until sunset
- Rent baby & toddler equipment such as car seats, strollers and baby carriers through Baby Traveller, the new family service provider in Greece
Kids will love
- The ducks at the lake
- The Greek kri-kri goat in the zoo
- Fairy-tale narration at the Children’s Library
Parents will love
- The walk at the garden surrounded by the ancient columns
- The serenity of the garden
- Coffee at Aegli Garden Cafe at Zappeio while children play nearby
Ideas
Explore the map Best season to visit
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The garden in the centre of Athens is a pleasant surprise that one could not imagine when they are in the centre of Athens full of noise and cars. Maybe one of the most beautiful gardens in Athens.
While your children watch the ducks, you can make a stop at “Garden” café and have a cup of coffee or if you are hungry taste various delicacies with a glass of ouzo.
The location of the national garden is convenient as it is at the heart of Athens.